BUSINESS
We’re looking for an energetic, enthusiastic, and self-motivated person.
Pro tips Are you looking for one-of-a-kind jewelry?
O
r thinking of making your own? We have a variety of jewelry starting at $14, and we have the beautiful materials you need to create your own. Talk to our knowledgeable staff about our classes. We can walk you through the design process and help you create a piece of jewelry that you will be proud of. We offer vintage and contemporary beads, findings and tools, including semi-precious stones, freshwater pearls, Bali silver beads, sterling silver and 14k gold-filled wire and more. Kate Mahoney, Island Creations, 339 Front Street, Marion, MA 508-997-9800, www.islandcreations-online.com
Be careful before signing a credit contract.
R
ecently Congress, under the leadership of our own Rep. Barney Frank, has restored some balance to the nation’s financial system. I’m hopeful that the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will use its enforcement powers to crack down on predatory lenders who strip wealth and security from hard-pressed working families. Still, there is no substitute for vigilance in the financial marketplace. You’ve got to comparison-shop for credit just as you comparison-shop for products. Read contracts before signing and know what the fine print says, and bargain about the objectionable features. Protect yourself from predatory lenders. Attorney Deborah Roher, 56 North Main Street, Fall River; 508-672-1383, droher@massattorneys.net 140 Purchase St., • Fall River, MA Ideal for: Law Offices or Social Services/ Psychologist/ Therapist Off-street parking
Energy improvement tax credits expiring soon!
T
he American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides tax credits for home energy efficiency improvements such as exterior doors, windows, insulation, heat pumps, furnaces, central air conditioners, water heaters and solar and wind installations. The credit amount is equal to 30 percent of the cost of such purchases limited to a maximum of $1,500. Solar and wind systems are eligible for the 30 percent credit with no $1,500 limitation. That’s right, there is no cap on the solar or wind credit! There is also an additional $1,000 Massachusetts State tax credit for solar and wind installations. Local gas and electric companies are offering rebates as well. These credits, with the exception of the solar and wind credits, are set to expire December 31, 2010. Village Plumbing, 171 Pine Hill Road, Westport, 508-636-9080, www.thevillageplumber.com
Would you prevent cancer if you could?
A
fter age 50, regular screening with a procedure called a colonoscopy may actually prevent colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer starts with growths in your colon called polyps. During a colonoscopy, the polyps are removed before they can become cancerous. If the test finds that colon cancer has already developed, you have a much better chance of successful treatment if it is found early. Kathleen Murray, Hawthorn Medical Ambulatory Surgery/ Endoscopy Center, 535 Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth, 508-996-3991, www.hawthornmed.com 24
October 2010 / The South Coast Insider