Fourteen Key Questions about Computer Safety for Your Home and Business

Courtesy of Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW
Internet Safety Advocate and Educator
www.SayNotoHackersandSpyware.com/

Safety technology is only a part of an overall safety plan. If you use your computer in your small business or home-based business, or simply use it to surf the Internet, or email your friends and family, then developing a comprehensive safety plan should be a very important part of your overall safety strategy to protect your personal and financial files and those of your family. The best move is one of Prevention! Prevention! Prevention! With that in mind, allow me to share with you 14 questions you need to be asking, or, at least, be thinking about, if you're serious about preventing or stopping safety attacks, risks, and threats:

1. Do I have a solid safety policy?

If you don't, begin immediately to get sample safety plans, policies, and best practices for your business and/or home. You may want to search Google using the keywords, “computer safety plans”, for a list of online resources.


2. Where would I go for key information and news on keeping my information private?

Search the Internet, for “managed computer safety services”. Ask the sources you select if they provide a free computer test to assess your computers level of vulnerability. Also ask them if they provide the latest tips on how to keep your privacy and protect your personal information and that of your business.

3. Does my disaster recovery plan include redundant back-up and data recovery systems?

Understand what a good data back up system is and how to best recover from a disaster. Search Google or Wikipedia using the keywords, “good data back up system”.

4. Do I know how to create safe passwords?

Learn how to write virtually un-crackable passwords. Search Google using the keywords, “writing safe passwords”, for a full list of legitimate and bona fide sources of this educational information.

5. What or who is a hacker?

A person who uses and/or creates software technology to break into the computers of individuals, businesses, government, and organizations for personal gain is known as a hacker. After he, she, or they hack into a computer, they can control it secretly by remote, making it a "zombie computer”.

6. What is "drive-by hacking"?

Because wireless Internet access points have become popular for homes and businesses, computers at these locations have become a major target for hackers. In this new phenomenon, called "dive-by hacking", hackers simply take their laptop computers in their cars and drive through business parks or residential neighborhoods remotely scanning for open wireless networks. (And they don’t even have to enter your home or business to steal your valuable information.)

7. How do hackers break into home and business computers?

If they don't have the break-in software, they can buy it off the black market, or create it themselves. With this technology, they use their malicious software to look for holes in the computers of their targeted victims. This is what hackers in Malaysia are doing with the new Microsoft Vista Windows.

8. To what extent might my home or business computers be vulnerable to hackers, their tools, viruses, etc.?

You’ll never know unless you take the time to test your computers to see what holes are open and by what backdoors (up to 65,000 portals) are malware entering your computer. If your son or daughter is downloading free music, games, or screensavers, more than likely they are also downloading hidden spyware. (That’s why they’re called spyware.) Again this is what they are doing with the new Microsoft Vista Windows.

9. I have all the safety measures, anti-virus, anti-spyware, and firewall I need. Can my computer still be hit by hackers and other pc-disabling attacks, risks, and threats?

Again, depending on the safety measures you have on your computer and the sophistication of the hacker's software program, your computer(s) might or might not be compromised. Remember: Cybercriminals are superintelligent criminals! They somehow always seem to stay one step ahead of authorities and anti-cybercriminal software.

10. What do I do if my employees or family members are my biggest safety risk?

Sad, but true, the Federal Trade Commission has reported that employees have stolen something more valuable than money from their employees. Learn about social engineering and insider hacking. Or simply - ask me.

11. How do I train my employees or family members to be safe?

Get all leading research on what to teach about safety. Or simply - ask me.


12. Would I know if someone tries to hack into my computer?

Depending on the safety measures you have on your computer and the sophistication of the hacker's software program(s), you might or might not be aware. Using keylogging programs, these cybercriminals can secretly see and record every keystroke you enter on your computer, thereby gaining access to all your private and personal information without your knowledge.


13. In case someone does hack into my computer(s) and steals my (or my family’s) identity, what chances of recovery do I have?

It all depends upon the severity of the damage done and the time that has elapsed before discovery. Search for a company that offers comprehensive identity recovery services (including all types of identity theft, not just your credit); one that will continue to work on your behalf until your identity has been restored to its pre-theft status; and one that includes $25,000 identity theft expense reimbursement insurance. Be sure that the company also includes in its services full identity monitoring (the proactive monitoring of all forms of identity theft, including credit fraud); and have fully trained professionals to handle it all for you from beginning to end so you won’t have to.

14. Where can I find comprehensive services that will give me full protection of my identity, my financial records, and my computers and for my family all at the same time?

I do not know of any one company offering a fully comprehensive set of managed care services except one. If you do not already have access to such a service that offers unlimited service by subscription, a set-up service to insure that the software programs are set up properly on your computers; a full-service legal plan for you and your family for any legal issue with free services including simple wills, unlimited phone and face-to-face conversations, legal document reviews, and discounted and fixed legal fees for extensive legal matters and representation; ongoing service with first month free and includes automatic software updates, free software upgrades, identity theft insurance, safety advisory alerts; and fast, easy, and unlimited telephone access to technical support, ask me how to obtain yours. Obviously if you have to ask these questions, you need to take immediate steps to plug the holes and cover the gaps. So, here are some steps you can take immediately to implement, or improve, your present safety measures:

• Learn all you can about hackers and the tools they use to invade your privacy and cause problems. Subscribe to a comprehensive source of Internet safety research, news and information for small and mid-sized businesses and organizations, or other professionals.
  
  
• Take advantage of the research already done. Get access to information about the leading topics in the safety field, including hackers and hacker tools, viruses, data back up, writing good passwords, government and legal issues, protecting from insider hacking - and more.
  
  
• Need help creating a safety plan for your organization or business? Take advantage of professional safety consulting and training both by telephone consulting or on-site visits. Get vulnerability assessments, employees training, safety implementation, and much more.

Because hackers, cyberpredators, and other cybercriminals are becoming smarter and more sophisticated in their operations, they are real threats to your personal safety and privacy. Your money, your computer, your family, and your business are all at risk.

Remember: When you say No! to hackers and spyware, everyone wins! When you don't, we all lose!

© MMVIII, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW
Your Internet Safety Advocate and Educator

Shop Safe Online this Holiday Season

(ARA) - Using the Internet for holiday shopping offers many advantages -- the convenience of avoiding crowds, the ability to browse multiple online retailers and compare products from the comfort of your home, not to mention considerable cost-savings on gas (those trips back and forth to the store can really add up at the pump).

To make online shopping even easier, retailers often reach out directly to consumers through ads and promotions sent to e-mail inboxes. But beware. While many of these ads often contain links which will take you directly to the retailer’s Web site, many may not be what they seem.

E-mail scammers, or “phishers,” as they’re known, view the holiday shopping season as an opportunity to steal your money, or even worse, your identity. Last year, e-mail scammers defrauded consumers out of $3.2 billion by sending unsuspecting shoppers bogus e-mails pretending to be a retailer or bank, and then stealing credit card numbers or other personal data when people click on the fake links in the e-mails.

What can you do to protect yourself? First, check to see if that e-mail from your favorite retailer is valid. One way to tell is to look for the blue ribbon envelope seal next to an e-mail message in your inbox. That indicates the e-mail is a Goodmail CertifiedEmail, which means it is authentic and that you’re safe to click on the links within it. While many retailers use CertifiedEmail to let you know their e-mails are safe, some do not. If you’re not sure the message is authentic, it’s best to manually type the URL of the online retailer where you want to shop, rather than clicking on a link in an e-mail message. Another option is to call the retailer’s customer service number to confirm that the e-mail you received is really from them. Goodmail also offers more helpful tips for spotting email scams at online at www.certifiedemail.net.

Some scammers will send an e-mail that appears to be from a legitimate business and ask you to call a phone number to update your account or access a “refund.” According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), because they use Voice-over Internet Protocol (VOIP)technology, the area code you call does not reflect where the scammers really are. If you need to reach an organization with which you do business, call the number on your financial statements or on the back of your credit card.

If you believe you’ve been scammed, file your complaint at ftc.gov, and then visit the FTC’s identity theft Web site at www.consumer.gov/idtheft. Victims of phishing can become victims of identity theft, and while you can’t entirely control whether you will become a victim of identity theft, you can take some steps to minimize its impact. If an identity thief is opening credit accounts in your name, these new accounts are likely to show up on your credit report. You may catch an incident early if you order a free copy of your credit report periodically from any of the three major credit bureaus. See www.annualcreditreport.com for details on ordering a free annual credit report.

Shopping online can save you time and money, and can be a great way to enjoy the holiday season -- as long as you remember to protect your personal financial information at all times.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Earn Your Shopping Black Belt on Black Friday

(ARA) – Shopping the sales is a great way to save money this holiday season. Everyone knows the best sales are found on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, when malls are packed with people finding great gifts at even greater prices. How do you make the most out of the bargain-hunter dream day?

“During this tight economy, getting that awesome gift is possible with a little creativity and preparation,” says Steve Kemble, "America’s Sassiest Lifestyle Guru" and General Growth Properties gift-giving expert. “The hustle and bustle of the malls on Black Friday is exciting, but to make sure your shopping is a success, I have a few suggestions.”

Kemble, a nationally recognized professional event planner who has appeared on countless TV and radio programs, offers these high-impact, low-stress shopping tips for a winning Black Friday:

1) Develop a Shopping Budget and Strategy

First and foremost determine how much you can afford to spend on your holiday gifts -- especially in the wake of current economic challenges. Be smart and realistic -- it’s not how much you spend, but the thought behind the gift that’s important. Also, now is the perfect time to discretely start asking friends and relatives what they want for the holidays. Once you determine which gifts you need, you can decide what stores to tackle on Black Friday. Plan your day around getting those must-haves before they run out. If needed, you can always plan a second trip to the mall for more common gifts that are likely to remain in stock for a longer period of time. GGP malls are a great one-stop shop for all things holiday.

Once you know what stores you want to visit, go online and review a layout of the mall to determine where to shop and locate the best place to park. Think about whether you are going to take trips to your vehicle to drop off packages. Feel like spoiling yourself a little? Many malls offer valet parking during the holidays, so you might consider this option as well.

2) Comparison Shop

In order to streamline your shopping experience, start a list of the items you need to purchase. Watch for ads in the newspaper and on television at least two weeks prior to Black Friday. GGP malls are a great one-stop shop for all things holiday and offer great retail offers and fun holiday events on Black Friday. Visit www.TheGivingSpree.com for more event information.

3) Eat, Drink and Shop Happy

It is important to stay hydrated and eat a balanced meal while shopping. After all, you need your energy! Successful shoppers know that they need to start their day with a nutritious breakfast. Pack some bottles of water and small snack items to take with you on your trip and you’re off and running. Additionally, it's always fun to plan for a wonderful lunch with family and friends during your day of shopping. Consider eating a little earlier or later than the traditional noon hour. While others are eating you can be scooping up all the sale items.

4) Partner Up for Festive Fun

For those who need a little shopping advice .... form your own Black Friday shopping team. Recruit friends and family members to provide the extra hands you need to get the best deals. And award your own “black belt” to those who successfully help you reach your goals. At the end of the day you can treat them to a GGP Mall Gift Card for all their help.

5) Think About You Too

Don't hesitate to think about one item you have always wanted for yourself while you are shopping. Adding a certain something just for you makes the day fun. We have all been guilty of going shopping and buying more for ourselves than for others. If you train yourself to know that you are going to get one fabulous gift for yourself, you'll begin to cut back on that habit.

Follow these helpful tips, and you will certainly be on your way to attaining your black belt in shopping this holiday season.

Logon to www.TheGivingSpree.com for more information on exciting Black Friday events hosted by General Growth Properties malls across the country.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Small Business Tips for a Challenging Economy

(ARA) - As the world's economy becomes more and more challenging, small business owners need to find ways to keep their business afloat. Here are some tips to maintaining good customer relations while managing the bottom line:

Invest in technology.

Maintaining your computer systems is vital to keeping your business running smoothly. If you're not a technical whiz and you don't want to pay for ongoing information technology support, consider Macintosh computers for your business. Although they cost a little more initially, many people find the investment pays back in ease of use and longer life. More companies are releasing business software that runs on the Mac and you can also use a program such as Parallels to run any needed Windows-only software on the Mac. Investing in technology will allow you to implement other cost-saving processes and programs.

Share files and data.

When you share a centralized database and critical files between computers, it can increase productivity. For example, if a customer gets a new phone number or moves, updating it in the central database that everyone uses will keep you connected to customers. "Synchronization and file sharing are easy and intuitive on the Mac and these were key reasons driving the move to Mac," says John Ives, who runs a defense-industry consulting firm and recently made the switch to Mac.

Communicate with your customers and prospects efficiently.

In a tougher economy, don't stop marketing, just do it more efficiently. Rather than sending out direct mail, consider e-mail marketing as a way to reach out to customers and prospects alike. Using a tool such as CardScan contact management system, you can capture all your contact information electronically. Scan and read all your business cards with the card reader and use "drag–and-drop" to capture e-mail signatures or prospect contact information from Web sites. Using CardScan software, you can create and assign categories for your contacts. If you meet a group of prospects at a meeting, scan in the cards, assign the category with the meeting name and then you can send targeted follow-up e-mails to these prospects in just a few steps.

CardScan for Mac also keeps a photo of each business card, so you can flip through the various images of them on your computer, rather than losing them in a folder or a pocket. For business-owners on the go, the scanner plugs directly into your laptop's USB power source, allowing you to scan your cards on a bus, in the hotel or on an airplane – before you return to the home office.

With over 7200 contacts, Ives, needs to be organized. Using a CardScan system, he quickly enters notes for contacts such as special interests or where he met the person. "I can type in a few letters or words and instantly find the one person I need with the CardScan system," he says. "It's very easy to use and synchronizing to Address Book ensures we are using accurate and up-to-date information."

Get your business online.

Many small businesses put off building a Web site, or they let it get out of date because it costs money to maintain. But there are now many non-technical and free tools to build and maintain a Web presence. For example, using WordPress, an open-source blogging tool, you can build a blog that looks professional and is very easy to maintain. It's also a more modern approach to communicate with customers and prospects.

Use inexpensive creative resources.

If you need photos, illustrations or graphics for your marketing materials or blog, resist the urge to use the amateur-looking clip art packaged with your software programs. Instead try inexpensive online sources such as iStockphoto.com for low-cost photos and graphics, or tempatemonster.com for Web templates and blog themes.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Trusted Advisors on the Frontlines of Social Entrepreneurship - Colette D. Ellis, InStep Consulting

By Anna D. Banks

Social entrepreneurship has evolved into a truly global force, shaping our world in multiple ways: through affordable clean energy, organic food and revolutionary new models in education and by leveraging technology to empower emerging economies, among others. Who are the actual stewards of this movement? Who are these anonymous entrepreneurs?

Social enterprise is a business model which offers the prospect of a greater equity of economic power and a more sustainable society - by combining market efficiency with social and environmental justice. Who are the actual stewards of this movement? Who are these anonymous entrepreneurs?

Collette Ellis Principal of InStep Consulting, LLC, Brooklyn,NY, our guest on Strictly Business Radio, Tuesday, November 25, 2008, discussed the challenges, opportunities, successes, missteps and motivations of this passionate group of business leaders and the organizations that they create and grow.

Colette Ellis, Founder of InStep Consulting LLC, helps people and organizations discover their competent advantage™. Skilled at learning her client’s needs, Colette bases her intuitive approach on over 10 years providing professional development services to leading Fortune 500 companies. She has trained executives and managers in oral and written communication, leadership principles and teambuilding. Her business and consulting experience spans the Consumer Products, Financial Services, Not-for-Profit, and Professional Service industries. In 2008, Colette joined a select group of national facilitators for Turning the Page: Building Your Library Community, a unique leadership development program funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Colette encourages innovative and continuous learning as an Adjunct Professor with NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, teaching courses on Managing Diversity as part of their Nurse Leaders program. She also has served as Adjunct faculty with Long Island University C.W. Post (Communication Skills for Managers), the City and State Universities of New York (Business Writing & Business Speaking), and a Business Writing Instructor with Gotham Writers’ Workshop. She has been a featured speaker for the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, Career Gear, Citibank at Work, Downtown Women’s Club, Grace Institute, International Association of Administrative Professionals, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, NextGen Network and the U.S. Small Business Administration.



Contact Information:
Colette D. Ellis, Principal
InStep Consulting LLC
(718) 643-6123
http://www.instepconsulting.com
http://competent-advantage.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/coach_colette

Advice for Entrepreneurs in an Uncertain Economy

(ARA) - The news ticker on the TV at the gym shows the dollar falling, the morning paper forecasts economic doubt, and the economic outlook appears to be dreary everywhere you turn. While it may seem counter-intuitive, business experts will tell you that now is a great time for entrepreneurs looking to start a new business. Often, times like these are when fortunes are made.

But how can an aspiring entrepreneur go about starting a business when the market seems against them? How can someone with big plans and new ideas ensure success in a dramatically different economic atmosphere? There are two things that will always be essential in getting a new business off the ground; a water-tight business plan and capital.

From Drawing Board to Blackboard

Those possessed by the entrepreneurial spirit and raring to get their business up and running sometimes find it difficult to translate great ideas into a well-thought-out business plan. For those, a trip back to the classroom may be necessary. Many entrepreneurs consider enrolling in an MBA program in order to fine-tune business practices and methods before a real-world launch.

“I get to see people who are very talented walking in the door a little lost -- perhaps lacking some skills, habits or practices -- become great business people,” says Phil Siegel, a successful serial entrepreneur and teacher at the Acton School of Business.

While traditional MBA programs have faced criticism for churning out risk-inclined financial speculators and investment bankers that led to the near-demise of Wall Street, other MBA curriculums with a focus on sound business practices and principled entrepreneurship are seeing a spike in interest.

“An MBA isn’t just for someone looking to land a job on Wall Street anymore,” says Siegel. “There are a few great schools offering an education that teaches how to really start and run a business from the ground up.” A handful of respected schools focus on the skills necessary to build and operate a business by offering MBA programs with entrepreneurship-specific tracks. Acton, where Siegel teaches, furthers the trend with their intensive one-year MBA in Entrepreneurship, an entire program focused on developing principled entrepreneurs and teaching them the tools, skills and judgment they need to run their own businesses.

Finding an Investor

For those who have the entrepreneurial enthusiasm, the know-how, and the structure in place to start building a business, but don’t yet have the funds to do so, the next step is finding an investor. Siegel says not to get discouraged even though investors may seem more tight-fisted given the economic downturn. “If you’re looking for money for a new venture, there are plenty of investors out there,” says Siegel. “The current economy hasn’t really affected the enthusiasm for great ideas.”

However, he cautions that all the normal “do’s and don’ts” of seeking funding are magnified in this kind of environment. Siegel urges entrepreneurs to:

1. Have a plan. “Come up with a business plan that is clear, concise, internally consistent and reasonable for the market opportunity.”

2. Know your customer. “Understand your customer and know why they would buy your product or service instead of what they buy today. Do market research, and have customer ‘pilots,’ if necessary, to prove that your product has value.”

3. Seek out experts. “Bring experts to your aid; they can help increase your credibility. In good times, people tend to believe your story, but in bad times, they’re more skeptical.

4. Prepare for profits. “Having done your business planning and preparation, ask yourself how you’re going to spend the money you are seeking. Who do you want to invest in your venture? What milestones are you going to reach in this round of investment capital? What will you need in terms of financing after you achieve your initial goals to get cash flows to break even?”

There will be many stops along the path to any entrepreneur’s first ribbon-cutting. Whether an MBA, an investor, both or neither are in their future, the advice given here should help any startup weather the economic storm.

“People are still willing to write checks,” concludes Siegel, “they’re just a little bit more careful, and a lot more cranky.”

For more information on the Acton School of Business’ one-year MBA in Entrepreneurship program, please visit www.actonmba.org

Courtesy of ARAcontent

SOUL-DRIVEN BUSINESS

Your Energy is Always Evolving You

By definition, energy needs to flow in order to be in its natural dynamic state. I'm not a scientist, but I know that its' movement is what generates some level of power, even at the smallest increment of its presence. The movement of energy is what makes things go. And it is the force within your own life that makes things happen, which cumulatively becomes your evolution.

As a creature of nature, you are consistently evolving to your next level of being. However, that can take shape in a number of different ways, based on how fast or slow your energy is moving and how willing you are to go where it takes you. If you resist, stop or block the energy flow of your life, you create stagnant pools of stuck energy that become bigger, heavier and/or denser over time. Eventually, those stuck energy places manifest as dysfunctional relationships, unhappy careers or an unhealthy physical body. And these are the clues to how you can support your own evolution... your stuck places are homing beacons to guide you to what needs your energetic attention.

The truly ironic part is that we can always see somebody else's stuck parts more clearly than our own. There is a reason for this... if we knew the lesson contained in our stuck places designed to teach us what we need, they wouldn't be stuck, right? We can't see our own blindspots, because that's the source of our lesson in working with our own energy! But we can see what the people around us aren't addressing for two reasons: first, we're not attached to the outcome and second, it's not our lesson to learn (or, if it is, we have a jumpstart on it because we can see it!).

Three Things You Can Do Today:

1. Pay attention to the messages. Your energy is always "talking" to you... if you aren't experiencing the results you want in your life, your evolution is continuing in some area. If your energy is stuck, there's a message there. If you feel a sting, ping, charge or a desire to avoid a person, situation or opportunity, you are being invited to consider what you need to handle for your next level. AND, by the way, when you decide to go to your next level, anything that stands in the way of you achieving that level will come up for your consideration to be handled. Just making the commitment to move toward your own best evolution will bring up messages - that's the energetic gift of your spirit.

2. Believe in your own evolution. Know that your spirit is actually trying to bring you magic when it brings those "hurt-y" places to your attention. Understand that you are dynamic and growing and your energy is supporting you in going to new places in your life. Know that there is a better future waiting for you, and it is your responsibility to live it as a physical expression of divine consciousness. After all, that's your reason for being - to give form to divinity and feed your experience into the greater whole! Your evolution is a microcosm of the vital growth that fuels divine consciousness in every moment. It's a big deal. ;+)

3. Get out of your own way. Now that you know your energy is working to help you evolve to your next best level, it's time to get out of your own way to receive your best life experience. You are inherently worthy of the most amazing life, and it's trying to come to you. By handling your stuck places proactively and consciously, and opening up to receive all the infinite grace that has your name on it, you are no longer standing in your shadow wondering why it's dark! It is sometimes this action alone that can bring you what you want in your life.

As this year closes out, it's an ideal time to look at where your energy is trying to evolve you, and where you are effectively blocking your own dynamic being from your best possible expression. If you discover that there is something that you're not enjoying, or a nudge to try something new (much less anything you've been ignoring or neglecting!), it's your energy talking to you. Pay attention and let the energy flow... and it's likely your life will too.

@2007 Lynn M. Scheurell All Rights Reserved. Feel free to use this article if full attribution is give to Lynn. M. Scheurell with the following description:

Lynn Scheurell, Creative Catalyst, works with soul-driven entrepreneurs to create a livelihood from their true purpose. This type of business development requires extreme personal clarity in combination with innovation and active implementation of proven business practices. Download a free report to learn "The Seven Deadly Mistakes That Keep Sould-Driven Business Owners from Making Money" at www.mycreativecatalyst.com.

8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs

"Blowing Up Barriers" CEO, Dr. Niama L. Williams discusses "The Two-House Project" with Host Anna D. Banks on Strictly Business Radio

By Anna D. Banks

Dr. Niama L. Williams (Dr. Ni) discussed her new social venture, "The Two-House Project" a non-profit organization providing "writer-in-residence" services to students of Norristown Area High School, with host Anna D. Banks, on Strictly Business Radio, November 20, 2008.

The Two-House Project arose from working with Norristown Area High School. Dr. Ni found the students disinterested in reading, and many afraid to write essays or any type of written work for which they would be graded. Dr. Ni decided to bring in a writer-in residence to work exclusively with the high schools students on creative writing, the writing of prose and memoir, reading, and literature. The Two-House Project is currently looking at homes to purchases in Norristown to house the non-profit organization and the "writer-in-residence".


About Dr. Niama L. Williams (Dr. Ni.)

Dr. Niama L. Williams (Dr. Ni) is the guiding force behind Blowing Up Barriers Enterprises, a company that specializes in leading you to the life you have dreamed of living but can't quite seem to get to on your own. She is also the CEO of “The Two-House Project”, a non-profit organization that plans to provide a “writer-in-residence” to work exclusively with Norristown Area High School students. Dr. Ni, the author of nine books, received her Ph.D. in African American literature from Temple University. Dr. Ni is the recipient of many awards and honors including June 2006, the Leeway Foundation Art and Social Change Grant recipient, and a 2006 (July) participant in a Sable Literary Magazine Arvon Foundation residential course in Shropshire.

She is a survivor of sexual abuse (incest), physical abuse and emotional neglect. Williams is overachiever who has been a recipient of public assistance because, she was willing to do anything necessary to get my degree.

Dr. Ni also facilitates two workshop series, "Affirming the Fully Imagined Life" and "It's Okay To Want: Eroticism and the Survival of Sexual Trauma" and interviews authors every Tuesday evening from 5:30-7 p.m. on "Poetry & Prose & Anything Goes with Dr. Ni" under the auspices of BlogTalkRadio.com.


About Strictly Business Radio

“Strictly Business Radio”, a production of Imagine More, LLC, is an interactive, live Internet talk-radio show that features businesses from start-up to stellar, as well as organizations that support entrepreneurship and business development. Host Anna D. Banks designed this program in an effort to create awareness around entrepreneurs of small to mid-sized businesses; social ventures, and to do her part to promote employment and business opportunities nationally as well as New Jersey. Callers are encouraged to call (718) 766-4021 to listen or ask questions. The stream and archives are available at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/StrictlyBusinessRadio.

# # #

Social Franchises

By Neo Boogaze


In recent years, the idea of franchising has been picked up by the social enterprise sector, which hopes to simplify and expedite the process of setting up new businesses. A number of business ideas, such as soap making, whole food retailing, aquarium maintenance, and hotel operation, have been identified as suitable for adoption by social firms employing disabled and disadvantaged people. The most successful example is probably the CAP Markets, a steadily growing chain of some 50 neighborhood supermarkets in Germany. Other examples are the St. Mary's Place Hotel in Edinburgh and the Hotel Tritone in Trieste.

The franchise community offers tremendous opportunities to non profit organizations for generating unrestricted income and achieving mission goals. Some agencies work exclusively with qualified non-profit organizations to develop strategic relationships with appropriate franchise partners and negotiate favorable agreements (franchise, leases, etc). They also launch and grow strong social franchise businesses.

In "social franchise" system volunteers may apply techniques for re-modeling institutions more independently and efficiently, thus increasing exponentially the number of institutions that can be aided.

The social franchise idea intends to enable the efficient and secure replication of the methods employed by all the people linked to the Projeto CASA DA CRIAN?A who wish to coordinate similar initiatives in their cities.

Through the volunteering of advertising agencies (in producing and executing ads about the Projeto) and the help of mass media vehicles we have been able to disseminate the Projeto CASA DA CRIAN?A and its partners, sponsors, and companies that contribute donating products throughout the national territory.

As a consequence more and more people have found the opportunity to aid institutions in their hometown and gain recognition as well for their professional abilities.

Furthermore we are seeking sponsorship for a maintenance program called Cia dos Anjos. This program would act in the training and maintaining of the institutions where the Projeto CASA DA CRIAN?A has acted and that are not maintained by the government and need administrative resources.

ModernFranchises.com is a directory of Franchise Opportunity, business franchise, franchise sale, business franchise opportunity, food franchise, franchise store & fitness franchise.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Neo_Boogaze

A Successful Social Enterprise is All in the Mind

By Mark Beckford

I've long been an advocate of using for-profit business principles (e.g. capitalism) to promote development and world progress, specifically in technology. This belief has been formed from:

1. My personal experiences working with local entrepreneurs in emerging market countries.
2. Leading business initiatives such as Intel's "World Ahead" program that (uncomfortably at times) straddles business and philanthropic objectives.
3. Reading/following various proponents of marrying for-profit businesses and non-profit philanthropies into win-win scenarios (e.g., CK Pralahad, Muhammed Yunus).

This phenomenon has been gathering steam significantly over the last few years. Descriptors are abundant. From the original founders of NextBillion.net came "Eradicating Poverty through Profit" and "Development through Enterprise," the last being the site's current tagline. Social entrepreneurs and social capitalists are converging at SoCAP in mid-October 2008. Bill Gates introduced the term "creative capitalism" earlier this year at a speech in Davos and it has appeared frequently on NextBillion.net and the blogosphere.

In writings on this subject, you'll find a complex set of ideas, theories, and debates. If you follow my postings, you'll find that I'm a bit of a "simpleton." I like to simplify the complex.

So what does all of this really mean to someone who wants to create a social enterprise?

Simply put, you need to develop a business mindset and run your business like a business. You need to create profits to cover your costs and reinvest in future growth and development. You don't depend on volunteers and grants/contributions.

This should seem easy to do, right? Just think like a capitalist or for-profit business owner. But I don't think it's that easy because the "mindset" switch of the owners/founders of the social enterprise is usually set on "social," not "business."

If I'm starting a business to create a product and make money, I have a certain overarching mindset guiding everything that I do in developing and running the business. On the other hand, if I'm starting a business to do some type of social good in the world, my overarching mindset is about what is the best way to make the biggest impact possible toward that social goal.

Here's an example of this mental limitation at work. As an adviser/mentor to start-ups here in Northern California, I have had the opportunity to review many business plans. Some of these plans are for "social enterprises," i.e. the core of their business is about doing some form of societal good. These business plans contain all the typical sections (market overview, competitive analysis, financials, etc.) and a section focusing on what impact the company's product or service will have on the intended social goal (e.g., environment, education, etc.).

That last section is where I usually find the founders' "heart and soul." It is better written, more detailed, and contains conviction that the "business" part of the plan sorely lacks. My typical advice: "Take off your social/philanthropic hat for a moment and pretend you are doing this only to make a ton of money. Pretend I'm a heartless VC or angel investor who is only in it for the money. Show me a plan that tells me how you'll bring me a huge return with a great, highly differentiated product accompanied by a kick-ass business model and management team. Then put your "social hat" back on and add in the part about how this will also make the world a better place."

I told this to one team and I never heard from them again. Not surprisingly, they did not make it to the finals of the respective business plan competition I was a mentor/judge for. I didn't penetrate their "social" mindset. I liked the social goal they were trying to achieve, but the business portion was seriously lacking.

One of my blog postings on why Negroponte's OLPC project should have been built as a "for-profit" business got re-posted on OLPCNews.com. One of the comments was: "Do Intel executives really care about helping poor school kids?" My truthful answer is: Yes, I really cared. But running it as a successful business was my first priority and was the primary filter I put most of my decisions through.

I think the days of being called a "capitalist pig," or "sandle-wearing do-gooder" are over. The two sides are merging. But the business mindset required to develop successful strategies to grow a sustainable, scalable high-impact business is something that needs to be developed and nurtured for all of the budding creative capitalists out there.

Mark Beckford is global technology executive with a passion for building high-growth businesses in developing countries using the principles of "creative capitalism" to generate both profits and progress for untapped markets and underserved populations. In 11 years at Intel, Mark led large, diverse global teams to extend Intel's reach and leadership into emerging markets, delivering millions of dollars in revenue and consistent turnarounds and growth. His global reach includes extensive experience working/living in China and growing markets in India, Brazil, Russia, and 40 other countries-engaging the highest levels of government and industry.

Mark's approach to market and product development is to create "disruptive" strategies that overturn the status quo, change the game, and make the biggest possible impact. Within emerging markets, Mark led Intel's groundbreaking "World Ahead" program, substantially increasing Intel's leadership. He brought in new revenue by driving an emerging markets expansion when Intel's business languished during the "dot-com" recession and he conceived and pioneered a new P&L business group in China, building to $75+M and five emerging countries in just one year.

As Intel's spokesperson on channels and emerging markets, Mark gave countless media interviews and presented at the World Economic Forum, the World Congress of IT, and other global leadership gatherings on the role technology can play in accelerating economic development. He currently serves as a mentor and advisor to startups at the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, the UC Davis Graduate School of Management and the Sacramento Regional Technical Alliance (SARTA). Mark blogs about disruptive leadership strategies and techniques to create high-growth business in emerging markets at http://www.disruptiveleadership.com

Mark received a Masters of Business Administration in 1996 from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Pomona College in 1989.

What Everybody Ought To Know - It's No Longer Enough To Install Off-The-Shelf Security Software

By Etienne Gibbs

Think about this: You had problems with your computer in the past. Now you want to insure that those little annoying nuisance, pests, threats, and risks from hackers and spyware don't hide in your computer any more. So, you load up your computer with all the free and off-the-shelf security software you can find. Now, as your confidence rises, you think that your computer is as impenetrable as the gold at Fort Knox.

Wrong!!!! You have been fooled into thinking that your computer is fully protected.

Now think about this: With all the options available to you, how do you know which one offers the best protection for you, your family, or your business? Here are some questions you need to consider:

* Are you a trained computer and Internet security expert?

* Do you know exactly which security software is compatible with your system?

* Do you have the time to continually research all the latest security technologies?

* Do you know exactly which software you should install and which ones should not?

* Once installed, how do you keep the different software programs updated? In fact, how often are they updated: daily? weekly? biweekly? monthly? Are the updates free. And if so, for how long?

* If you encountered a problem that your installed security software could not fix, or you simply had a question, would you have access to free, live technical support?

* If not, what would it cost you? Would it be a one-time fee? Would it come with a warranty period? And what would it cost you when the warranty expires?

By now, I'm hoping that you're beginning to see why it is not enough any longer to install off-the-shelf security software. There is a better option! You need a revolutionary full security service package that gives you peace of mind because its software programs work together, its technical support is always live and free, and its comprehensive $25,000 personal identity theft insurance comes with a recovery service at no additional cost.

Why you need a comprehensive security service package: The Internet-based attacks on your personal privacy and security continue to worsen year after year. The future of Internet security is gloomy and it takes an extremely dedicated and savvy computer user to find the right mix of security programs and stay current with the newest threats. Internet security is not a one-time event. You cannot simply install security software on your PC and then forget about its safety and security, and ultimately, the safety and security of your family, home, and business. Internet safety and security require an ongoing, time-intensive process with a fairly high level of expertise and vigilance.

Why you need a team of security experts on your side: Do you want to be an Internet security expert? If you are like most people, you neither want to nor have the time. You don't want to worry about staying current with the latest technologies. You can't possibly keep up with the all the new threats coming at you almost daily because you have better things to do with your time. Instead, most people end up relying on the opinions and recommendations of more knowledgeable friends and family members for their security needs and hope nothing bad happens. But is that the best and safest strategy?

To get maximum protection for your PC, you need an Internet security expert on your side. Better yet, you need a team of experts making sure that you, your family, and your business are always safe and secure. You need to find your own personal team of experts to rely on. If you ever have a security problem, you want a trusted expert you can call for professional answers and solutions without any hassles and extra costs! As time goes on, it will become even more critical than it is today.

The best protection you can have in today's rapidly changing world of cyber-attacks is to have expert support for all your Internet security needs. Hackers will likely always be one step ahead of law enforcement and the security industry itself. Software-based protection alone, as you can see, is not enough anymore.

Of all the Internet users who have anti-virus software on their computers, 85% of them had computers that were subsequently infected with a virus or worm! Have you ever had a virus you couldn't get rid of? Has your computer acted funny or has it slowed way down due to a massive spyware infestation? Then you see and know how dangerous and damaging these threats and risks are!

Unfortunately, for consumers seeking security and privacy protection with brand name solutions will find two extremes - complex systems they cannot afford or properly maintain, or consumer-grade technology that doesn't provide adequate protection. If they do find something that fits their budget, it will likely have only a part of what is needed to truly protect a computer, and it won't include free expert support and a security guarantee.

Caution: Don't be lulled into a false sense of security thinking that the anti-virus software that came with your computer is enough protection. Off the shelf anti-virus software does not always protect you from hackers, spyware, remote access tools, Trojan horses, password crackers, keystroke loggers, identity theft tools, Microsoft security holes, hybrid viruses, and much more. And most people let their anti-virus program expire thereby losing protection from everyday viruses and worms.

To be fully protected, you will need:

* at least five layers of overlapping security technologies and services to create a virtual fortress for your PC. Most off-the-shelf and free software offer two, or three at the most, programs. But are they overlapping when they work and when they update?

* desktop firewall to lock out hackers and other unauthorized intrusions and shield your PC from unauthorized communication both to and from your PC, making your PC virtually invisible to hackers and other intruders randomly scanning the Internet for vulnerable PCs;

* world-class anti-virus protection, including 24/7 scanning and certification that your incoming and outgoing e-mails attachments are virus-free -- plus scanning of all removable media such as CDs, Zip disks, portable hard drives, and floppies;

* anti-spyware that continuously monitors, detects, and eliminates all forms of spyware, hacker tools, and malware from your PC including malicious spyware tools, adware, browser hijackers, search hijackers, keyloggers, ghost spammers, remote access tools (RATs), back doors, and many other illegal programs and applications that breach your privacy and security;

* patch management that will automatically find and fix security holes and other dangerous vulnerabilities in your computer's operating system and software programs that hackers use to break into your computer;

* security alerts that warns you of brand new viruses, worms, and other security threats as they emerge - including specific recommendations of what to watch out for and how to avoid getting attacked to keep your privacy secured and your PC safe; and to wrap it all together,

* premium technical support that offers free unlimited expert technical support for any security related problems or issues with options to include online access to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), User Guides, Email Support Hotline, and live, expert telephone support by highly trained technicians.

Although the Internet basically provides a positive and productive experience, cyber-attacks against our personal privacy and security are reaching epidemic proportions. These attacks are occurring in our own homes and businesses. Our own computers are being used are being used as zombies to attack other people, businesses, and even our nation itself. As an average Internet user, you may not be aware of these threats nor have any idea about the dramatically increasing risks you face when connected to the Internet.

On a campaign for internet safety awareness and protection, my mission is to bring critical awareness to individuals, families, and small business owners, and to provide access to the necessary tools and ongoing expertise to secure your computer and help you stay protected.

I invite you to join the many thousands of others who have tested their computers, discovered these threats are real, and taken the necessary steps to protect their computers, their families, and their businesses.

Now that you have become aware of these issues, I encourage you to share this vital information with your families, friends and communities. Together, we can reach many millions of people and inform them about the threats to their privacy and security, and help them get the protection they desperately need.

Remember: When you say "No!" to hackers and spyware, everyone wins! When you don't, we all lose!

© MMVII, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW, Internet Safety Advocate and Educator

Etienne A. Gibbs, Internet Security Advocate and Educator, consults with individuals, small business owners, and home-business entrepreneurs about online protection (including free lifetime technical support and $25,000 identity theft insurance and recovery) against spyware, viruses, hackers, and other pc-disabling cybercrimes. For more information, visit http://www.SayNotoHackersandSpyware.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Etienne_Gibbs

Posted by Anna D.Banks

Why Hackers Love Non-Profits and Small Businesses

By Anna D. Banks

Small business owners, you may believe that hackers have no use for your small computer network. Think again! Understanding what these hackers are truly after will help you to understand why your network is at risk. Etienne A. Gibbs, Internet Safety Advocate, Educator, and owner of SayNotoHackersandSpyware.com will be the featured guest on Strictly Business Radio, Thursday, November 12, 2008. Mr. Gibbs will explain why these cyber criminals want control of your computer system, and how to protect yourself online against spyware, viruses, hackers, and other computer-disabling cybercrimes.

About Etienne A. Gibbs:

He is an Internet Safety Advocate and Educator with 22 years of experience as a professional speaker, and trainer. He consults with small business owners, non-profit businesses, social enterprises and individuals regarding computer safety and online protection.

Etienne is on a mission to increase Internet safety through education. He is passionate and relentless about training the public through published articles, and speaking to business or community groups. Firm in his commitment to reducing identity theft and attacks on the security of families and businesses, Mr. Gibbs states, "We're the only company to offer free and unlimited tech support to the subscribers of our managed care services."

Mr. Gibbs offers these 5 tips for keeping you safe online:

1. Protect your children online.

2. Back up important files regularly.

3. Protect your valuable personal and financial information.

4. Use strong passwords or strong authentication technology to help protect your personal information.

5. Know who you're dealing with online.

About Strictly Business Radio:

“Strictly Business Radio”, a production of Imagine More, LLC, is an interactive, live Internet talk-radio show that features businesses from start-up to stellar, as well as organizations that support entrepreneurship and business development. Host Anna D. Banks designed this program in an effort to create awareness around entrepreneurs of small to mid-sized businesses; social ventures, and to do her part to promote employment and business opportunities nationally as well as New Jersey. Callers are encouraged to call (718) 766-4021 to listen or ask questions. The stream and archives are available at www.blogtalkradio.com/StrictlyBusinessRadio. Visit the website at www.StrictlyBusinessRadio.com. Contact Information:

Etienne A. Gibbs
Say No to Hackers and Spyware.com
Internet Safety Advocate and Educator
egibbs@myinvisusdirect.com
www.SayNotoHackersandSpyware.com

Maureen Walliser, President/CEO of Hudson Community Enterprise appears 11-11-2008 on “Strictly Business Radio"

By Anna D. Banks

Maureen Walliser, President/CEO of Hudson Community Enterprise appeared today on “Strictly Business Radio" Show (http://www.blogtalkradio.com/StrictlyBusinessRadio) with host Anna D. Banks on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern. The interview highlighted successes and challenges of building a successful social enterprise. Callers were welcome to join the conversation during the show by calling (718) 766-4021. Recording of the live, Internet talk-radio show can be shared and and saved as a MP3 downloaded file from the host page at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/StrictlyBusinessRadio.

About Hudson Community Enterprises: Hudson Community Enterprises is a non profit organization based in Jersey City, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1957 as a community rehabilitation program and for all of the years since its inception has focused its efforts in the area of job preparation, training, and job retention services for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Its social enterprise businesses provide a range of services to area businesses as well as offering individuals with disabilities the opportunity to become more self-sufficient. This past year over 700 individuals participated in its programs leading to employment. Since its inception in 1957, the organization has placed 3,500 community residents into employment.

Mission Statement

Give Individuals with Disabilities and other barriers to employment a Chance to Succeed

We provide individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment with the skills and support they need to have successful work experiences. As a result, we help them improve their life by enabling them to become self-sufficient.

Improve the Community One Person at a Time

By giving individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment the skills they need to succeed in the workplace, we give them the means by which to give back to their community.

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Vision Statement

To become the foremost provider of vocational, rehabilitative and social enterprise services to help individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment obtain jobs and grow within their chosen field of work.

To become a leader in Hudson, Essex, Bergen and Passaic Counties showing the way for other companies, commercial and non-profit, to assist individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment become self-sufficient.

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Value Statement

We are…

a collaborative non-profit made up of forward-thinking social ventures and innovative employment preparation programs that enable individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment to become self-sufficient.

By doing business with us…

	Organizations help individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment become independent.
	They get valuable business services.
	They make an investment in their community because all profits go back into the community.

For more information about Hudson Community Enterprises Contact:

• Maureen Walliser, President/CEO
• Hudson Community Enterprises
• 68-70 Tuers Avenue
• Jersey City, NJ 07306
• Phone: 201-434-3303
• Website: http://www.hudsoncommunity.org