9 Million People to Receive 'Green' Cards.

Here's some Homeland Security news for you, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is bracing for a couple of busy weeks- to say the least. The DHS is going to be reviewing work applications from an estimated 9 million immigrant workers thanks to an Executive Order that President Barak Obama is expected to implement later this year. So, what? Well, that is the million dollar question.

This information is relevant because US Citizenship and Immigration Services has published a draft contract proposal to buy the card stock needed to make work permits and Permanent Resident Cards, more commonly known as green cards. The proposal also calls for providing material for at least 5 million cards a year, with as many as 9 million “during the initial period … to support possible future immigration reform initiative requirements.” The contract calls for as many as 34 million cards over five years.

Basically, non-violent illegal immigrants will be protected and granted legal work status if they have children here in the USA. While many people may not like this concept- or may think it put the country at a disadvantage- there are more benefits to this action than not. These now legal workers have to pay into the tax system, which is a big plus. They will contribute to our medical system and they are trackable. Plus, they can't be taken advantage of in so many ways. It seems to be a win-win for both parties.

The DHS is going to spearhead this effort because it the president can authorize protection from deportation for immigrants on a case-by-case basis, such as with the DACA program, and issue work permits. If someone doesn't look like they working intent, but something more sinister in mind when it comes to being within the USA, we can get a heads up on the scenario (and handle it) through the DHS. This issue is something to think about for sure this weekend before forming an opinion if this effort is good for the country or not.

Until Monday,

Twyla N. Garrett

Ebola, What You DON'T Know!

I was listening to women inline this morning discuss Ebola. Wow! There is a lot of bad information with social circles. Since I covered this topic, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) yesterday, I want to expand a bit on what most people don't know , but assume, when it comes to Ebola.

First, a person infected with the deadly virus must be showing symptoms to transmit the infection to others. Someone mentioned kissing today as how it is transmitted, this isn't true!

The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say it's possible the disease could be spread this way, but WHO said it's "not aware of any studies that actually document this mode of transmission." Also, coughing and sneezing aren't common Ebola symptoms.

Right now, you're more likely to die from the flu vs. Ebola. Yes, you read that right! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, from 1997 to 2007, flu deaths ranged from a low of about 3,500 to a high of 49,000 deaths a year. The flu reached epidemic levels in last year's season. This said, The World Health Organization says West Africa could see 10,000 new Ebola cases a week by December.

We do have to be careful, as a country, about an Ebola outbreak. It is possible but it isn't likely. The DHS is considering a travel ban right now. We have trained professionals working at airports to screen all travelers right now. We're aware and discussing the issue, which is good. The problem is the not knowing and the gossip that I hear on a daily basis. You will always fear what you are not aware or informed about. If you want to learn more about Ebola, please click here: http://www.cdc.gov/vhf/ebola/

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

1 Valuable Life Lesson for Business

Someone recently asked me if I had a valuable life lesson that translated to business growth. I do! I wanted to share it on the blog today to help many people understand why I brand my company, IME, as "the company that cares."

My mantra and life lesson is to take everything personally. I hate when people say, "it's not personal, it's business." You are your business as an entrepreneur, therefore everything is personal. If you don't treat everything you do in life and business with a personal investment, what good is it? It you are personally invested in something, you tend to take it more serious. Business means money. Business means your reputation. So, why wouldn't you take it serious?

The most valuable life lesson I have that can translate to business is not taking one specific business deal personally. I had viewed a deal as not "good enough" for my standards. It was just business, not an opportunity. So, I didn't take it personally. I missed out on a great opportunity because I treated the pitch as business. Had I treated it like a personal investment, I probably would have gave it more consideration and would be reaping those rewards today.

My point here is to take everything personally and act from the heart- even in business!

Until next time,

Twyla N. Garrett

Top 2 Ways to Utilize Profit!

You made a profit. Now, what do you do with it? Businesses need to know how to reinvest profit and where. Hey, it takes money to make money- right? So, once you do make a profit what is the best way to spend it? I've reviewed all the possibilities and have come up with the top two answers.

First, start by paying off any debts you owe. That's right. Being debt free is great in both your personal and business life. Paying off debts means you will save money in the long scheme of things. The credit score number for your business will also improve. You should pay off any business debts before you pay of personal debts. Business income can help you improve your personal income. Have questions on how to do this? Send me a message. I will be happy to offer some initial complimentary advice.

Reinvest in marketing. Marketing is extremely important these days. However, marketing isn't a one-shot effort. Marketing requires several strategies and campaigns running concurrently. Even if you only have a thousand extra dollars at the end of a quarter, consider putting that money into a marketing campaign. It will lead to more customers, more sales and more brand viability.

I'm off to a few speaking arrangements this week. I will still post my nightly updates so please continue to send in your questions.

Twyla