Is Your Business Mobile Ready?

What Is Mobile Marketing?

Mobile marketing involves marketing and advertising strategies that are focused and conducted on mobile devices such as smart phones and tablets. Mobile marketers communicate with consumers by sending text messages or SMS. Smart phone owners can also be targeted by marketers via mobile internet, social media, and mobile applications.

With mobile marketing, you can send a simple marketing message to consumers or ask them to participate in a contest, survey or poll. Smart phone users can also visit a mobile website. Mobile marketing was not feasible just a few years ago but now that consumers can receive text messages and view images on their smart phones, marketers and business owners must adapt and embrace this new medium or fall by the wayside.

 There are over 5.6 billion cell phones in use globally, which means that close to 80% of the world's 7 billion inhabitants has access to a mobile phone. With that kind of reach, businesses can no longer afford to ignore the opportunities presented by mobile marketing. In particular, small business owners should also consider how the mobile market can benefit them.

Learn Why Your Business Needs A Mobile Optimized Website Right Now!

WHY YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS A MOBILE WEBSITE IN 2015

Business Tip for the month of August - From Anita T. Conner & Associates, P.C.

Do a business valuation when you're ready to sell your company

Well before you're ready to sell your company, you'll want to determine its fair market value as a starting point for negotiations. Of course, obtaining a reasonably precise value for your business is often a complicated and time-consuming task. Accurate appraisals must weigh a variety of factors and incorporate numerous assumptions. The more precise the underlying numbers and suppositions, the more likely the appraiser's determination of fair market value will reflect what a willing buyer would actually pay. Following are two questions an appraisal should address.

• How does your business compare? If you're operating a service business, your valuation will differ — often substantially — from a company involved in light manufacturing or retail. Buyers will expect a reasonable return on their investment, a return that is often represented as some form of earnings multiplier. For example, your business may be valued at three times projected earnings. Once determined, that number can be compared to businesses of similar size in your market. Of course, accurate valuations must compare apples with apples. "Earnings" must be defined. Should "earnings" include or exclude the owner's pay, interest expense, depreciation, or taxes? A careful appraisal will also scrutinize the balance sheet. The basis for valuing tangible and intangible assets (including non-compete agreements) and liabilities (such as mortgages, installment loans, and accounts payable) should be clearly laid out — before the business is put on the block.

• Will present trends continue? The future is always murky, but a careful analysis will be based on conservative projections, assumptions, and common sense. If, for example, the business is expected to retain skilled management and employees, buyers may be willing to pay a premium. If, on the other hand, the company is overly dependent on a few products or customers, potential buyers may be scared off. Or they may require concessions to mitigate perceived risk. Again, a careful appraisal will consider many such factors and value the business accordingly.

Remember: an appraisal is merely a starting point for negotiations. The more accurate the appraisal, the more likely the business will be priced correctly and potential buyers will be attracted. Unfortunately, determining the fair market value of a business may be fraught with missteps and faulty assumptions. For that reason, hiring a trained and objective professional is often a worthwhile investment.

aconner@atconnercpa.com

FREE NETWORKING EVENT!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:  Dayna Cherry

267-601-6094

Local Author/Entrepreneur Hosts Inaugural

Author’s Book Signing and Networking Event

For Authors who are seeking community and National recognition

Philadelphia, PA – August, 2014 -  When Dan Ramsey became incarcerated, he took it as an opportunity to reflect on his fast and furious lifestyle of gangs, drugs, pain and power.  He used reading as an outlet and a tool to help him grow internally – studying the Bible, the Koran and a variety of other books.    Danny believes that God spared his life to enlighten and empower him to bring many books to fruition – book s that will aid others in their search for inner meaning.   Inspired by his daughter, he wrote and illustrated 9 children’s books.  He is also the author of “For Men Only… Having A Loving Relationship With God And Your Woman” a book that was written exclusively for men to help them see that the role of a woman in their lives is an essential element of their spiritual health and a significant contributor to their own self-actualization.

“I started writing For Men Only…Having A Loving Relationship With God And Your Woman while I was incarcerated.  I became a lecturing in prison and upon my return to society began teaching various men’s groups about the importance of keeping God in the relationship with their women.  I brought so much information to the forefront that the participants couldn’t retain it all in one session and I was asked to write it down.  So, I self-published this book that I had written while incarcerated.”

Daniel emphasizes that the book is not just For Men Only.  “Lots of women have read it as well.  It was written for men because men are supposed to be the head of the household and they need to be straight in order for the household to be in order.    Woman who read this book are getting a different perspective on the male experience.  It helps women raise their standards in what they expect in a relationship.”

“Ever since I published this book, I’ve meant several fellow authors who've shared their stories about the journey of writing a book.  Many have become discouraged, lacking support and information about writing and publishing books.  I decided to host a forum to bring authors together, giving them an opportunity to promote and sell their books, to network and to learn more about writing and publishing.  “I wanted to offer a forum where Authors could come together and encourage one another.  We need to surround ourselves with like-minded people and build up one another’s confidence.   I also wanted to have a place and time dedicated to encouraging people to read; children and adults.”

Treasure’s Banquet Hall will host its Inaugural Author’s Book Signing and Networking Event Authors of all genres are invited to participate in this great opportunity to share published and upcoming work.    There are currently 10 authors who have signed up to participate. 

There will also be representatives there from the Philadelphia Chapter of The National Writers Union UAW Local 1981 -  the only labor union that represents freelance writers.

Now, more than ever, with the consolidation of power into the hands of ever-larger corporate entities and with the advent of technologies that facilitate the exploitation of a writer’s work, writers need an organization with the clout and know-how to protect our interests. One that will forge new rules for a new era.

Combining the strength of more than 1,200 members in our 13 chapters with the support of the United Automobile Workers, the NWU works to advance the economic and working conditions of all writers

This event takes place Friday August 22, 2014, 2pm – 8pm at Treasure’s Banquet Hall 5549 Germantown Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19144.  This event is free to the public.  Author’s fee is $15 for table. 

For information, contact Dayna Cherry 267-601-6094 or Daniel Ramsey at 267-241-5695.

#

Author’s Book Signing and Networking Event

Treasure’s Banquet Hall is inviting Authors of all genres to participate in this great opportunity to share published and upcoming work.

The event takes place Friday August 22, 2014,
 2pm – 8pm

At Treasure’s Banquet Hall

5549 Germantown Avenue

Philadelphia, PA 19144

This event is free to the public. 
Author’s fee is $15 for table. 

For information, contact:

Dayna Cherry

267-601-6094

Or

Daniel Ramsey

267-241-5695

Oh Woman! How Great Is Thy Faith! Let it Be as Thou Willl!!!

This Post is Inspired by The Canaanite Woman in Mathew 15:

This scripture was never one of my favorites.  I would get defensive about
 it because Jesus called the woman a dog; unfit for even crumbs from the
Master's table.  But this past weekend I attended a Camp Meeting service
 a the SDA Allegheny East Conference in Pine Forge, PA.  The guest
speaker was Admiral Barry Black.  Now, I had not been to camp meeting
 there in about 6 years, but when I heard that Barry Black was speaking,
 I put on my hat and went to hear him speak.  I was not disappointed.

READ MORE...

How to ruin your credit score

Warren Buffet once said, "It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it." The same could be said of good credit. It isn't built overnight or by accident. Most Americans with stellar credit scores have exercised financial discipline for years. That's why lenders are willing to offer them mortgages and car loans at favorable interest rates.
And like a good reputation, a strong credit score can be easily ruined. Here's how to devastate your credit score in four simple steps.

• Max out your credit cards and don't make required payments. About 35% of your FICO score — the number between 300 and 850 (worst to best) that most lenders use when deciding whether to extend credit — comes from your payment history. Paying late or paying less than required minimums can wreak havoc on your FICO score and may signal to lenders that you're overextended.

• Co-sign on an irresponsible friend's loan. There's a reason why your pal needs a co-signer — he or she is perceived as a high credit risk. If your friend defaults on the loan, you're responsible for the unpaid balance. As Shakespeare said, "Loan oft loses both itself and friend." And remember this: if you co-sign for a loan, the status of the loan will appear on your credit report.

• Close credit card accounts in quick succession. Shutting down a credit card or line of credit account may adversely affect your debt-to-utilization ratio (how much you owe in relation to your credit limits). As this ratio climbs, your credit score will tend to sink. Say, for example, you have three credit cards and each has a $1,000 limit. You carry a balance of $500 on one of those accounts. That's a debt ratio of $500 to $3,000 or about 17%. If you close one of the accounts, the ratio will jump to 25% ($500/$2,000). Though you haven't accumulated more debt, your credit score may be hurt.

• Default on your installment loan or home mortgage. This is another sure-fire way to trash your credit score. A home foreclosure, for example, may cause your FICO score to plunge by 200 points or more. And because most negative information stays on your credit report for seven years (ten years for a bankruptcy), lenders may be reluctant to offer you money for a very long time.

aconner@atconnercpa.com

Mary Jane's Closet presents TheMeltingPotArtExpo2: a white & gold affair at Blackeye Soup Studios.

MEDIA ADVISORY

Contact:

Jasmine Anderson

Mary Jane's Closet

ShopMaryJanesCloset.com
M.JanesCloset@gmail.com

Kourtney Fullard

267-439-6291

Kendall Hayes

267-593-7604

TO: City Editors, Education Editors, Photo Editors, Broadcast Assignment Editors and News Directors.

WHAT: Mary Jane's Closet presents TheMeltingPotArtExpo2: a white & gold affair at Blackeye Soup Studios. The night will be filled with some of Philly's best artists, who may not have otherwise been given the chance to display their talent.

Philadelphia, PA, May 30, 2014 –

A showcase that will display all mediums of art, including fashion designs, artwork and performances.   Artists include Jamir Linder, All Day J and Nebulus Flair, whose artwork will be on display. There will also be a variety of performers, ranging from poetry/spoken word to rap. A few performers from the first Melting Pot Art Expo will be returning, such as poet/writer Kourtney Naomi, singer Parker and rapper Cloudy. There will also be a performance by Brooklyn, NY rapper, E. Nigma.

“We are happy to host this event at our venue” said BlackEye Soup owner, Joshua Black.  “Our mission is to inspire and encourage the youth in their artistic ventures.”

In between performances there will be fashion scenes; designers include ZombieFlyd, CMTA and of course, Mary Jane's Closet. There will be a special fashion scene displaying designs from the brand called Distorted Love. The brand's founder, Jhamiel Anthony Robinson, recently passed away. To celebrate Jhamiel, a friend of his, rapper Calogero, will be performing a song while models display his designs.

Best dressed male and female will be acknowledged and rewarded during the show. There will be multiple prizes raffled off. After the show is over, guests will have time to eat, drink, mingle, network and take photos. Each guest in attendance will receive a gift bag before leaving the venue. There will also be the opportunity to purchase some MJC gear, including the newly featured Young, Talented & Broke tees, handmade flower headbands and sunglasses!

WHO:

• Jasmine Anderson

• Kourtney Fullard

• Joshua Black

WHEN:                 Friday, May 30, 2014

                                7:00pm

WHERE:              Blackeye Soup Studios

                                6143 Germantown Ave

                                Philadelphia, PA 19144

Feed Your Hair From Within

Guest Post from Aginah Shabazz

Your hair is fed by your blood stream.  The health of your hair and scalp depends to a great degree on the quality of your blood just as your general health depends on the quality of your blood.  The quality of your blood, which feeds your hair, depends on nutrition.  If your diet does not contain all the necessary vitamins, minerals, proteins, and amino acids, then your blood will be deficient in all important nutrients and cannot supply them to your hair.

If your hair is falling out or your experiencing baldness, you would be wise to get immediate attention.  Usually, hair loss caused by severe conditions is sometimes temporary, and when the condition is cleared up, the hair will resume it's normal growth. 

However, the greatest majority of all hair loss in men are so called male-pattern baldness and in women "female pattern".  In these instances, baldness is caused, as Dr, Mikus would say, by impaired blood circulation to the hair follicles, prolonged mental stress, affected by the influence of male hormone on the galea {causes it to thicken} or by impaired blood circulation caused by nutrition,  or may be  affected by the constriction of the blood vessels{cause by smoking} in the scalp, also emotional stress.

Finger Massage:

Place both hands firmly on your head and without moving the fingers or palms, push the whole scalp in circular movements for a few seconds... then place the fingers or palms in a new position repeat until you cover the whole scalp including the forehead, temples and neck...

Brushing

Use a fine brush of fine quality, natural bristle, brush hair for 3-5 minutes morning and evening.  Alternate up and down strokes.  Regular brushing improves the quality of your hair and helps to prevent baldness.  Brushing deep-massages the scalp and cleanse the surface of dirt, dead skin and stale oils.  It also helps the sebaceous glands to release their secretions and stimulate their normal activity.  And don't be afraid to brush thinking you will pull out too many hairs.  If the hair is loosely attached in its cuticle that will come off in brushing- then it would be of no benefit to keep it there.  The sooner it comes out the better...The emptied hair follicle stimulated by vigorous brushing and the flow of new blood, will soon start growing new hair.

Shampooing

I do not advise using detergent shampoos or hot water.  For your last rinse mix a 1 oz of  Bragg's apple cider vinegar to 5 oz a of warm water as your final rinse.  Or use Aginah's Herbal Hair Products.  

Suggested Herbs & Amino Acids{free form}

L-Tyrosine 500mg

L-Cysteine

Fish Oil 1000mg

Nettles

Horsetail

Cascara Sagrada

Kelp

Yellow Dock

Garlic w/Cayenne

Take your natural hormone herb daily

As Dr. Mikus would say, hair growth is a very slow process especially new growth.  Be consistent and patient.  Follow the suggested treatments conscientiously and you can expect to be richly rewarded for your efforts.Keep me posted on your monthly results.  Should you need my assistance please don't hesitate to email aginahhair@aol.com    

Stay Calm!  

Follow these steps when shutting down a business

Business owners may decide to shut down their operations for a variety of reasons. Some struggle for years before admitting that their particular market is drying up or the company's products lack sufficient customer appeal. Others manage strong businesses, but no longer feel motivated to continue pouring energy into the enterprise. Still others may find that partnerships have grown sour or personal crises have unavoidably encroached on their time and resources.
Regardless of the reason for shutting down a business, owners should follow a systematic dissolution strategy whenever possible. Such a plan should include the following steps:

• Vote to close the business. Of course, a sole proprietor may only need to consult with a spouse or trusted advisor. With a partnership, corporation, or limited liability company, more than one business associate must agree to the dissolution. Organizational documents or a state's business statutes often mandate the level of agreement required (a simple majority or two-third's majority, for example), so you'll want to consult applicable rules.

• File a final tax return. Even if the business only operated for a portion of the year, you'll need to notify the IRS that the company's annual tax return is its last one.

• Fill out dissolution paperwork. Let your state and local governments know that the company is ceasing operations. The forms you need should be posted on your secretary of state's website. Especially when a partnership or corporation is dissolved, formal filings should prevent future confusion about ownership and liabilities.

• Cancel licenses, permits, and insurance policies. Most businesses are required to obtain city, county, and/or state licenses to operate. Those governments should be notified of the dissolution. Insurance brokers as well should be told to cancel business liability, health care, and other company policies.

• Notify interested parties. At some point you'll want to inform lenders, suppliers, service providers, and customers. Lenders will be eager to find out how you plan to repay loans. Suppliers will want to know when to make final deliveries. Utility companies will need to know when to turn out the lights and shut off the water. Customers, too, should be given plenty of notice about final orders and ongoing projects.

• Get expert advice. Closing down a business can be a stressful and fragile process. Many things can go awry, so seeking help from competent professionals — attorneys, accountants, bankers, and others — can keep the process moving in the right direction.

aconner@atconnercpa.com

Understanding the basics of reverse mortgages

Because many retirees are house-rich and cash-poor, financial gurus have developed a method for tapping into some of that bottled-up wealth: the reverse mortgage. As the name suggests, a reverse mortgage generates payments from a lender to a homeowner — the opposite of a standard mortgage. By providing access to home equity, reverse mortgages enable cash-strapped seniors to retain their property, subsidize their income, make home improvements, even cover unexpected medical expenses. Furthermore, money received from a reverse mortgage isn't taxable and doesn't negatively affect a retiree's social security or Medicare benefits.

For several years the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has offered a popular reverse mortgage called the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage or HECM. To qualify under that program, you must be at least 62 years of age and hold title to your home free and clear (or be able to pay off the mortgage balance with proceeds from the reverse mortgage). In addition, you must demonstrate the financial wherewithal to cover ongoing utility costs, maintenance, property taxes, and hazard insurance. You'll be required to live in the home as a primary residence (although some types of reverse mortgages allow you to live in a nursing home or other medical facility for up to 12 consecutive months before the loan must be repaid). As with other types of mortgages, lenders charge origination and closing fees. Ongoing costs such as mortgage insurance premiums and servicing fees may be part of the bargain as well.
Before you sign on the dotted line, consider the following:

• You're taking out a loan. A reverse mortgage is an obligation that must be repaid when the borrower moves out permanently, the house is sold, or the borrower dies.

• Read loan documents carefully. Payment amounts, interest rates (fixed or variable), loan length, line of credit availability, events that trigger foreclosure proceedings — all of these variables should be clearly delineated in the mortgage documents.

• Expect your total debt to increase. Interest on a reverse mortgage is generally charged against and added to the outstanding loan balance on a monthly basis.

Although a reverse mortgage may provide a welcome source of cash, such a commitment shouldn't be undertaken lightly. Shop around, and beware of pushy sales people who love to bundle additional products — risky investments, annuities, insurance — along with their reverse mortgage offerings.

aconner@atconnercpa.com

Estimate start-up costs for your new business

Building a business from scratch involves hard work, long hours, and, statistically speaking, a high probability of failure. Yet as researchers Stanley and Danko noted in their landmark book, The Millionaire Next Door, "self-employed people make up less than 20% of the workers in America but account for two-thirds of the millionaires." For those businesses that survive, the rewards can be substantial.

Unfortunately, many businesses die before they get started. That's because entrepreneurs often fail to estimate start-up costs with reasonable accuracy. As a result, the company cash account dwindles to zero before sales catch up.

If you're preparing to launch a new business, take a hard look at the following:

• Assets. Your company's requirements will vary depending on the industry and market for your goods and services. But you should be able to construct a list of assets necessary to keep the business up and running for at least a year. If you're establishing a company in a brick-and-mortar location, you'll need to factor in equipment, furniture, point-of-sale cash registers, incorporation fees, licenses, signage, rental and utility deposits, and remodeling costs. A service-oriented firm may not carry substantial inventory, but a product-based company should estimate initial inventory costs as well. Equipment and furniture vendors should be able to provide reasonable cost estimates for such items.

• Expenses. Costs to launch a company will also include items not found on the balance sheet — outlays to keep the company running from day to day. These might include legal fees, website development costs, expenditures for office supplies, marketing materials, and rent and utility deposits. If you hire folks to help get the company off the ground, their salaries should be included in the expense estimate as well.

• Cash. Once you know how much your company will need for assets and expenses, it's time to develop a budget. Estimate revenue and collections for at least three months. Be conservative. Add up the cost of assets and expected expenses, then deduct cash in the bank and projected revenue. The difference will be your cash shortfall. This is the amount you'll need to garner from other sources, including bank and personal funds.

The more accurately you estimate the above items, the more likely your company will survive long enough to become profitable.

© MC 2014

aconner@atconnercpa.com

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Author releases book on a the taboo subject of under cover homosexuality. Seeks to take the subject out of the closet to allow healing, empowerment and restoration to individuals, families and communities.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:

Philadelphia, PA January 6, 2014 – When Kendall Hayes started an organization with a mission to help women to overcome obstacles such as domestic violence, substance abuse and losing loved ones, it was because she herself had experienced these things and more. She felt that the best way to help herself was to help others.

The organization focused on bringing women together to conduct workshops for girls age 10-16 to help them identify behaviors at an early stage, providing preventive measures and allowing the young ladies to learn from the mistakes of others.

She discovered that there was an underlying issue that many women had either experienced in the past or were currently dealing with, but no one really talked about it or addressed it. It was the issue of women who loved men who slept with other men - men on the down low.

Discovering that your spouse is leading a double life can cause tremendous self-doubt and great psychological and emotional suffering and millions of women have experienced it in the U.S.

“We have heard the term down low for some years now. We’ve heard stories and read books about these men; I couldn’t remember reading one from a female point of view. We had “Invisible Life” and others by the late E. Lynn Harris, whose books told the stories of men living on the down low. We had the book by D. L. King who shared his story of living on the down low. But we didn’t have much from a woman’s perspective on the subject. The closest thing I can think of is the movie Cover, which showed how devastating it is when a woman finds out that her man is living a double life. I decided it was time for me to write a book. I had talked about it for a few years. Now it was time to stop talking and start writing.” Ms. Hayes shared.

As her 50th birthday approached, she realized one of the best ways for her to share a journey through trials to triumphs was through writing a book. In December of 2013, she finally completed her first novel – 'Seasons of Hope'. - a fictional account of one woman's journey through a series of unfortunate, life altering events including the devastating realization that her husband is gay. The story also follows one man’s struggle with his sexuality and the lengths he will go through to keep it a secret. It takes the reader on a spiritual journey through seasons of betrayal, grief, brokenness, healing, empowerment and restoration.

The fundamental issue behind ‘Season of Hope’ isn't that of homosexuality; whether or not homosexuality is right or wrong; whether they should be permitted to marry or not. That has no relevance to the story in which Hayes tell. The author seeks to bring to the light that which we have left lurking in the shadows far too long; it raises an important issue which we have publicly ignored and socially suppressed far too many times.

This fascinating book is more than just a good read - it is a step towards the light The author's hope is to take the subject out of the closet and begin open and honest discussions to help heal, empower and restore individuals, families and communities.

Author to Host Reading, Book Signing and Discussion About Gay Men Who Marry Straight Woman

Philadelphia, PA - Question: What’s worse than discovering that your husband is having an affair with another woman? Answer: Discovering that your husband is having an affair with another man.

Purchase your copy today.

Discovering that your spouse is leading a double life can cause tremendous self-doubt and great psychological and emotional suffering. and millions of women have experienced it worldwide. But as the old saying goes “There’s nothing new under the sun.” This behavior has been taking place since the days of Noah. Most women have just not realized that it is very much prevalent in this day and time.

 On Friday, March 21st at 6:00 PM, Hayes will read from her book ‘Seasons of Hope’ and take comments and questions from the audience. There will also be speakers who will talk about the down-low syndrome, or, people who outwardly live heterosexual lifestyles while secretly having same-sex relationships. Be a part of the discussion and join us as we take the subject out of the closet during the ‘Seasons of Hope’ reading and book signing.

 When: Friday, March 21st at 6:00 PM – 9:00PM
Where: The Urban Book Gallery 262 S. 52nd Street Philadelphia, PA 19139 ###

Tips for cutting medical bills

With the burgeoning cost of pharmaceuticals, doctor visits, and hospital stays, staying healthy has become an increasingly expensive proposition. In addition, health insurers are passing along more and more of their costs in the form of higher deductibles, increased premiums, and larger co-payments. Out-of-pocket costs for even one hospital stay can break a household budget, and it may take years to recover.
That's the bad news. The good news? You can control some of these ever-increasing health care costs by following a few simple strategies:

• Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate. You haggle when buying an automobile. Why not use a similar tactic when discussing items on your hospital bill? In fact, out-of-pocket costs for a surgery may even exceed the cost of that shiny vehicle sitting in the driveway. Fortunately, health care providers are often amenable to reducing invoiced amounts, and some may offer discounts for upfront payment. You might also research the cost of similar services in your area and use those figures as a starting point for negotiation. One place to start is healthcarebluebook.com.

• Scrutinize the bill. Hospitals are notorious for double billing and mischarges. When you receive the itemized bill, pore over it — line by line. Look for charges that don't make sense ($50 charges for hospital supplies that are available for a dollar at the local department store); charges for services you didn't receive (physical therapy that never happened); or more than one charge for the same item (separate charges for the hospital room and standard amenities like bed sheets). Examine the rates for these items as well. Your insurer may have negotiated lower rates, but you may have been charged more-expensive uninsured rates. And make sure all eligible out-of-pocket expenses are credited toward your deductible.

• Comparison shop before you buy. Unless you're being treated for an emergency, you may have time to locate more cost-effective health care alternatives. For example, using a stand-alone MRI imaging center may cost significantly less than the same test if offered by a hospital. A walk-in clinic or urgent care facility is generally cheaper than a visit to the local emergency room. Switching to generic drugs, when available, can save you up to 60% over name-brand equivalents.

If in doubt, call your insurer's hotline to ask for help. Remember: insurance companies have a vested interest in your good health.

aconner@atconnercpa.com

Estimate start-up costs for your new business

Building a business from scratch involves hard work, long hours, and, statistically speaking, a high probability of failure. Yet as researchers Stanley and Danko noted in their landmark book, The Millionaire Next Door, "self-employed people make up less than 20% of the workers in America but account for two-thirds of the millionaires." For those businesses that survive, the rewards can be substantial.
Unfortunately, many businesses die before they get started. That's because entrepreneurs often fail to estimate start-up costs with reasonable accuracy. As a result, the company cash account dwindles to zero before sales catch up.
If you're preparing to launch a new business, take a hard look at the following:

• Assets. Your company's requirements will vary depending on the industry and market for your goods and services. But you should be able to construct a list of assets necessary to keep the business up and running for at least a year. If you're establishing a company in a brick-and-mortar location, you'll need to factor in equipment, furniture, point-of-sale cash registers, incorporation fees, licenses, signage, rental and utility deposits, and remodeling costs. A service-oriented firm may not carry substantial inventory, but a product-based company should estimate initial inventory costs as well. Equipment and furniture vendors should be able to provide reasonable cost estimates for such items.

• Expenses. Costs to launch a company will also include items not found on the balance sheet — outlays to keep the company running from day to day. These might include legal fees, website development costs, expenditures for office supplies, marketing materials, and rent and utility deposits. If you hire folks to help get the company off the ground, their salaries should be included in the expense estimate as well.

• Cash. Once you know how much your company will need for assets and expenses, it's time to develop a budget. Estimate revenue and collections for at least three months. Be conservative. Add up the cost of assets and expected expenses, then deduct cash in the bank and projected revenue. The difference will be your cash shortfall. This is the amount you'll need to garner from other sources, including bank and personal funds.

The more accurately you estimate the above items, the more likely your company will survive long enough to become profitable.

aconner@atconnercpa.com

Business Plans: Every Entrepreneur Needs One!

Many people decide to start a business but neglect mapping out their plan.  Some figure they’ve had years of experience in the industry they’re going into.  Others think they have enough money.  While both these things are important to have when starting a business, a business plan is the most essential tools for any aspiring Entrepreneur.  If you fail to plan, you plan to fail’ but once you have your plan mapped out, you have a better chance of achieving your business goal(s).

Your business plan is your map to a successful business venture.  It is always a good idea to put your thoughts on paper and that’s just what a business plan does.  It doesn’t need to be anything formal at first. Just getting your ideas down on paper is a good start.  Once you have a concept, you will need to research the industry and decide how you will structure your business or service.  It’s also a good idea to conduct a SWOT analysis of yourself as an individual, your operation and management teams  and your business as a whole.

Next you should focus on marketing.  What is the demographic of your target customer base?  Who is your competition?  What sets you apart from your competitors?  How will you position your company to stand out from the rest?

Once you get these points mapped out you will want to get to the meat of the plan:  The Financials.  When seeking funding, this is the most important component of your business plan.   Investors want to see the financial forecast for their investment.    It also helps you understand how you project your business growth.  BE REALISTIC!  Formulate your expense budget then your sales forecast.  Then create your cash flow statement and income projections.  Then compile an Income Statement (also called a Profit and Loss Statement).

We hope this helps get you motivated to start on your business plan.   If you need further assistance, we are at your service.     We can help you formulate your road map to success with a beginner Business Plan or we can help you take your business to the next level with an advanced Business Plan. Our President has extensive experience in teaching business plan writing in groups settings as well as one-on-one coaching. Contact us for a free consultation!  267-593-7604

FREE Parenting Workshop Wed. Feb 12th 5:00pm

Learn best practices about supporting your child's learning process and get a better understanding on how the work hand-n-hand with the school to help ensure that your child(ren)'s learning process is successful!

Come Celebrate With Me

Book Reviews for "Seasons of Hope"

‘Seasons of Hope,’ brings to the light that which we have left lurking in the shadows far too long; it raises an important issue which we have publicly ignored and socially suppressed far too many times; the fundamental ingredients for a wholesome marriage, or for any healthy relationship:honesty.
 Nathaniel Lee, Journalist, Philadelphia Tribune

Scandalous with a strong lesson in a basic principal for humans;  Honesty.
Diane Banks, Student of Theology

Kendall, did a wonderfully magical job on this book, “Seasons of Hope.”   She engrosses the reader as they travel the journey with the characters.  The lesson you get out of it is the result of the magic that you experience; once you open the book and read it through… 

Cleous G. Young, Author   

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INTRODUCTION TO "SEASONS OF HOPE" A NOVEL BY KENDALL EVONE HAYES

One of the fundamental ingredients for a wholesome marriage, or for any healthy relationship whether it be mother and son, brother or sister or friendships with those outside our family, is honesty.

 

With this in mind, the fundamental issue behind Kendall Hayes’s book ‘Season of Hope’ isn’t that of homosexuality; whether or not homosexuality is right or wrong; whether they should be permitted to marry or not, that has no relevance to the story in which Hayes tell.  Some might try to read this into her writings for their own personal reasons or seek to twist her intentions to make it seem as if the topic of the book has to do with the homosexuality of one of its characters but that would be not only incorrect, it also would be yet another missed opportunity for open and honest discussion on a very important issue.

 

It is such honest discussion that is sorely missing in our communities today. Think about it: When was the last time your church, synagogue or Masjid spoken about the role of marriage as related to homosexuality? What about your friends, those in your peer group?

 

When I say ‘discuss the issue’, I do not mean having some superficial and momentary discussion about homosexual and heterosexual relationships but a deeper, more balanced evaluation of the subject from both sides of the coin, meaning from a gay and straight perspective. You have probably not had such discussions or, if you have, very few.

 

Yet we need to do so. Faith based groups shy away from the topic and just makes a stand one way or another according to their traditions and beliefs and that is that. Our friends might mention it as a conversation piece; state their formed opinion, probably laced with lewd jests, without any significant exploration of the matter and move on to the next topic.

 

However there are gay people who are married or in relationships with straight people who have no idea that their significant other or spouse is attracted to members of the same-sex, or, for that matter, gay people in relationships with someone whom they did not know were straight.

 

This is why  of ‘Seasons of Hope,’ is such an important book; it brings to the light that which we have left lurking in the shadows far too long; it raises an important issue which we have publicly ignored and socially suppressed far too many times.

 

My hope is that after you read the book, you will discuss it with your friends, family members and those in the groups and organizations to which you belong.

 

This fascinating book is more than just a good read it is a step towards the light.

 

Nathaniel Lee

When should you start collecting social security benefits?

Each day, people are retiring by the thousands and most will decide to collect social security benefits as soon as they're eligible. Under current rules, anyone born in 1929 or later and who's paid into the system for at least 40 quarters (ten years of work) is entitled to collect benefits starting at age 62. Recent estimates suggest that over 70% of those who reach that golden age will sign up right away.
For folks who rely heavily on social security to pay the rent and buy the groceries, choices are often limited. But if you're fortunate enough to enjoy greater financial flexibility, you'll want to consider the following questions:

• How's your health? If you don't expect to live into your seventies or eighties, taking social security benefits early probably makes sense. On the other hand, if you expect to live a long life and don't want to run out of money, waiting to apply for benefits may be prudent. That's because social security benefits are substantially reduced for every year you're under "full retirement age." People born between 1943 and 1960 can start collecting full benefits between ages 66 and 67. Folks born after 1960 can collect full benefits at age 67. If you begin receiving social security payments at age 62, your monthly check will be reduced by as much as 30%, depending on your age. Since you'll be collecting benefits for the rest of your life, the long-term difference in payouts may be significant.

• How's your retirement plan doing? If, while waiting to reach full retirement age, you're drawing down retirement savings to cover expenses, you may want to reassess your options. Say you're earning a 5%-8% return on your 401(k) account or IRA. It might make more sense to take social security benefits at age 62, leave your retirement accounts alone, and let compound interest work its magic. The higher the return on your retirement accounts, the more important to let that money grow, even if it means foregoing a higher social security benefit. On the other hand, if your investment portfolio is just keeping pace with inflation and you expect to live until age 95, postponing social security benefits until full retirement age may be the better choice.

Clearly, deciding when to apply for social security benefits isn't a one-size-fits-all proposition. If you need help with this important decision, give us a call.

aconner@atconnercpa.com

Local CHS 270 Student to Host Arts Festival to Inspire Entrepreneurship

Philadelphia, PA January 6, 2014 – When Jasmine Anderson, Kourtney Fullard and a group of teenagers met in High School, they formed a bond that went beyond school – they became family.  After graduating from Central in 2011, the girls went in different directions;  Jasmine to Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Kourtney to SUNY Purchase College in White Plains, NY, but their bond never weakened.

Jasmine, a Business Administration major and aspiring Entrepreneur,  took her passion for fashion and  craving for saving and parlayed it into a business venture -  an online Vintage Boutique called “Mary Jane’s Closet," which she operates and curates alongside photographer, Khadijah Hope-Moore, who is also a Philly native.

“I took inventory of the people that I know.  The people who support my online boutique.  I wanted to host an event that would show my appreciation and allow my friends to showcase their many talents.  I have friends who are artists, performers and designers.  I figured why not bring them all together and showcase all this young talent right here in the city of my birth. “

That’s exactly what will take place on Friday, January 10th, 2014 from 6pm – 8pm.  Mary Jane’s Closet will host The Melting Pot Art Expo at 417 N. 8th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123.

“The showcase will display all mediums of art including fashion designs, artwork and performances.  And who better to open the night’s activities than my friend Kourtney, who is a blogger, poet and artist. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. The night will be filled with Philly's best, who may not have been given the chance to display their talent."

All participants are young and upcoming artists.  This event is open to the public. Admission is $5 and Dressy-Casual Attire is required.

For more information, contact Jasmine via email at m.janescloset@gmail.com

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President of HER…Healed Empowered Restored to Celebrate 50th birthday with the launch of her first novel

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

                                                                                                                                         CONTACT:  Kourtney Fullard

knfullard@gmail.com

                                                                                               

Philadelphia Community Activist and 
President of HER…Healed Empowered Restored to

Celebrate 50^th birthday with the launch of her first novel

Philadelphia, PA January 6, 2014 – When Kendall Hayes started an organization with a mission to help women to overcome obstacles such as domestic violence, substance abuse and losing loved ones, it was because she herself had experienced these things and more.  She felt that the best way to help herself was to help others.

The organization focused on bringing women together to conduct workshops for girls age 10-16 to help them identify behaviors at an early stage, providing preventive measures and allowing the young ladies to learn from the mistakes of others.

She discovered that there was an underlying issue that many women had either experienced in the past or were currently dealing with, but no one really talked about it or addressed it.  It was the issue of women who loved men who slept with other men.  Men on the down low. 

“We have heard the term down low for some years now.  We've heard stories and read books about these men; I couldn't remember reading one from a female point of view.  We had “Invisible Life” and others by the late E. Lynn Harris, whose books told the stories of men living on the down low. We had the book by D. L. King who shared his story of living on the down low. But we didn't have anything from a women’s perspective on the subject.  The closest thing I can think of is the movie Cover, which showed how devastating it is when a woman finds out that her man is living a double life.  I decided it was time for me to write a book. I had talked about it for a few years.  Now it was time to stop talking and start writing.”  Ms. Hayes shared.

As her 50th birthday approached, she realized one of the best ways for her to share a journey through trials to triumphs was through writing a book.  She wanted to share stories about women who, through all types of adversity, still maintained a sound mind and a strong faith in God.  In December of 2013, she finally completed her first novel – Seasons of Hope. It is a fictional account of one woman's journey through a series of unfortunate, life altering events including the devastating realization that her husband is gay. The story also follows one man’s struggle with his sexuality and the lengths he will go through to keep it a secret.    It takes the reader on a spiritual journey through seasons of betrayal, grief, brokenness, healing, empowerment and restoration.

On Saturday, February 22, 2014 Ms. Hayes will celebrate her 50^th birthday with the official launch of Seasons of Hope.  The celebration will be held at Temptations Banquet Facility – 218 W. Chelten Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa.  Admission is free and open to the public from 9:00pm until 10:00pm.  There will be an open buffet and cash bar.  You will be able to purchase a book and have it signed by the author.

For additional information, contact Kendall Hayes at 267-593-7604.

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Official Book Launch for SEASONS OF HOPE