Rural Leader Magazine December 2014

December 2014

Small Town

America's

5 Rules to Negotiate a Better Salary• Saving Money on Your Holiday Shopping List• Exciting STEM Careers and Opportunities Aplenty in the Navy • How to Maximize your Tax Benefits for Charitable Gifts • Georgia State Director Heads South RuralLeaderMagazine.com 1

Contents

5 Five Rules to Negotiate a Better Salary Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication that highlights every day people doing extraordinary things nationally and abroad. www.RuralLeaderMagazine.com Marketing Treasure Marketing, LLC Photographer Tiesha Allen TieFotos Contributing Writer

6 Overlooking Insurance During Your Job Search Could Cost You 7 Money Saving Tips So You Can Earn Your Degree Without Going into Debt 8 Learn What's Important to Small Business Owners 9 Small Town America's 100 Most Influential People 15 How to Make Your Home Ownership Dreams A Reality

Sara Lee Crumbs, Director, Quitman County Family Connection

16 Saving Money on Your Holiday Shopping List

17 Ten Tips for Becoming More Efficient and Eco-friendly Business 18 Growing Your Business: Tips to Apply for a Small Business Loan 21 Exciting STEM Career and Opportunities Aplenty in the Navy 23 How to Maximize Your Tax Benefits for Charitable Gifts 23 Important Guidelines to Landing that Perfect Job 24 Georgia State Chamber Director Heads South

Best Small Town Restaurant

Readers’ Forum

The Scoop Deli and Ice Cream located at 115 West Jefferson Street in downtown Thomasville, Georgia is Tell us what you think about our publicathe recipient of this issue’s Best Small Town Restautions, if you have a great idea for a story, or to rant honor. The popular eatery was voted “Best of just share. We may print your comments in the Best” four consecutive years (2011-2014) by the Times Enterprise Newspaper. The Scoop is a family Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your run business owned by Linda Hurst. comments, you’re giving permission to call you for an interview. Please be sure to include The popular establishment specializes is making healthy food fast with a large variety of homemade your name, address, email address, and phone sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts made fresh number so we can reach you. Write to us at daily. Operating Hours are Monday through Friday RuralLeaderMagazine@gmail.com— 9AM until 5PM, and 11 AM until 4 PM on Saturday; closed on Sunday. For more information, call 229Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, 551-0012 or write to theScoopDeli@yahoo.com.— in English, or other languages, is prohibited without written consent.

Send editorial ideas to Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief RuralLeaderMagazine@gmail.com

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In Every Issue

2 Best Small Town Restaurant 27 Under 20 Honors 27 Classifieds

Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, 2014 has been a phenomenal year! Since the release of the inaugural issue in March, we’ve received an outpouring of support regionally as well as nationally. Rural Leader under 20 and 40 under 40 honors were immensely successful. Best Small Town Restaurant honors was another sweet spot as recognized popular mom and pop restaurants in small communities.

In this issue, we present more insightful articles on not only leadership, but also practical tips to advance one’s career or to enhance business practice and productivity. By far, however, we are most proud and excited to unveil 2014 Small Town America’s 100 Most Influential People! These deserving individuals represent small rural communities across the nation. We salute the nominees for their contributions and efforts, which make small town America a wonderful place to live, work, and play.

We sincerely thank you for your unwavering support throughout the year. As we embark into the New Year, we aim to continue to grow this publication and to try new concepts. Rural Leader Magazine will be published six times per year beginning January 2015.

Until then, we wish you and yours a happy, safe, and prosperous Holiday Season!

Sincerely,

Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Loving this magazine! I cannot wait to read the next issue.

—Brian C. Alabaster, AL

Reader's Voice

Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I was so impressed with the 4o under 40 issue. It is high time the folks in small towns get the recognition we deserve!

—Francis. W Baconton, GA Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thanks for the article, What Employers Want. The article was timely and informative.

—Brandon C. Farmville, VA

Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thanks for another great issue!

—Linda F. Quincy, FL

Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I enjoyed the article, Eight tips to Conducting Meeting Confidently. I learned a lot. Thanks so much.

—Vanessa C. Tellico Plains, TN Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thank you, thank you for recognizing our young rural leaders.

This is a phenomenal gesture.

Please keep up the great work!

—Danny K. Grantville, MD

Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thank you for being a voice for rural leaders across the country. I am a fan for life!

—William D. Blue Mountain, MS Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I am so pleased with the work that you are doing! Thanks for your efforts to focus on leaders in rural communities.

John D. Bainbridge, GA Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I received an invitation to view your publication from a friend online. Two words: Loved it!

Genny T. Attapulgas, GA RuralLeaderMagazine.com 33

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5 Rules to Negotiate a Better Salary

Between networking, polishing your resume, applying and interviewing, finding a job is time consuming. Once the offer comes in, all your hard work is done, right? Not necessarily. Now is the time for negotiating - a process few people are comfortable with.

Skipping it, however, can mean that you miss out on better benefits or a higher salary.

"You should always negotiate a higher salary," says Vanessa Jackson, director of career services at The Illinois Institute of Art - Chicago. "Hiring managers expect this, so they do not start by offering the highest salary in their range."

Rule 1: Be polite The first rule when it comes to negotiating is to always be polite.

"Say 'Thank you very much for this opportunity. I am so excited to join your company.' Then move into the negotiation," says Shannon Delecki, assistant director of career services at The Art Institute of Michigan.

Your requests should never sound like demands. If they do, you could negotiate your way right out of a job. Remember, the negotiation is a balancing act. You want

a higher salary but you're looking to work with the person on the other end of the negotiation, so be respectful and use good manners always.

Rule 2: Know your worth Make sure you've done your research. "Know the average salaries for the position and for the market," says Delecki. That means what others with similar experience would make in the same city where you'll be working.

And this isn't a time to be modest about your potential value to the company. "Tell the company why you are worth more than you are being offered. Show them how you will contribute to the company's profits and help their bottom line," advises Delecki.

Rule 3: Ask for the right amount Ask for too little and you'll sell yourself short, but if you ask for too much you'll risk offending your future employer. How much should you ask for? Jackson recommends anywhere from $3,000 $5,000 above the company's offer.

After conveying your gratitude for the job offer, confidently state: "I'm hoping to negotiate a salary closer to $XX."

Rule 4: Don't forget other benefits There are times that companies may not be able to budge on the dollar amount, but that doesn't mean negotiations are done. This could be an opportunity to negotiate other benefits like paid time off. "Ask the company whether they can be more flexible about vacation or PTO days," says Delecki.

In addition to vacation days, other benefits that you could try to negotiate for include flex time for working from home and subsidized day-care costs. "I've known people who negotiated for immediate vesting in the company's 401(k)," observes Jackson.

Rule 5: Be realistic Keep in mind, people negotiating higher-level jobs will likely have more success negotiating.

If you are just out of college and accepting an entry-level job, employers typically will not negotiate much, if at all. Young professionals can always ask, but they must be realistic about what they should ask for and about what an employer is likely to approve.—BPT

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Overlooking Insurance During Your Job Search Could Cost You

An improving economy has many people entering the job market and looking for new employment opportunities. But if job seekers are not insurance-smart in their search, they may end up in worse financial shape than they were in their previous role.

Earning a higher salary is the primary goal for many job seekers, but research from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) shows that many job seekers ignore the wider benefits package, not realizing that insurance benefits alone can account for nearly 10 percent of total compensation, according to research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This could be costly, as 25 percent of job switchers found out. In fact, new employees reported that insurance-related changes in their new position either slightly or greatly worsened their overall financial situation.

If you are exploring new opportunities in the job market, make sure you ask these questions.

Five tough questions to ask when changing jobs 1. Beyond salary, what are the other financial implications of making a job change?

2. What options do I have to

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cover medical expenses while I'm between jobs?

3. If something catastrophic happens to me between jobs, is my family protected?

4. Have I thought through all of the financial consequences of a job change that includes a long-distance move?

5. All things considered, could this be a good time to start my own business?

Asking yourself these questions will put you in a better position to research new opportunities in an informed way. Before you decide to accept a new position, make some smart insurance decisions to be sure you and your family are protected during the transition.

Five insurance-smart things to do as you change jobs 1. Find out if your new employer has a mandatory waiting period before health insurance coverage takes effect. If so, consider a shortterm plan to cover the gap.

2. Conduct a line-by-line comparison of your current health plan with plans offered by your new employer to determine the right blend of deductibles, co-pays and coinsurance for your needs.

3. If you have children and your health insurance coverage is at

risk of lapsing, look into government-sponsored programs, such as Children's Health Insurance Plans (CHIP). These plans may provide coverage at little or no cost to you.

4. See if your current group life insurance plan has a conversion privilege. You may have 31 days from the day you leave your employer to submit an application.

5. Insurance rates and coverage vary greatly from state to state. Before a move across state lines, contact your state insurance department so you know what to expect.

Accepting a new position can be an exciting time in your professional life. By asking the right questions you can ensure your new job is even more profitable for your family than your last. For more tips, tools, videos, interactive games and downloadable apps to help you get smart about insurance during a job change or other life event such as buying a car, buying a home, getting married, becoming a parent or even turning 50, visit InsureUonline.org.

A fun video by the NAIC illustrates the importance of educating yourself on insurance during these life events.—BPT

Money-Saving Tips So You Can

Earn Your Degree Without Going into Debt

Many students, such as Kevin, come to Columbia College from a large state university. To be financially smart he enrolled in the evening program, which he balanced with an overnight job. He was involved in many campus activities, and also was a student worker.

If you've just finished high school and you're headed to college, or if you're an adult student looking to go back to school, chances are you've thought about student debt. You're not alone.

The epidemic of student debt is taking higher education by storm. In 2011, combined student debt eclipsed the $1 trillion mark. Consider the fact that total credit card debt in the United States was estimated at $798 billion that same year, and you can see why student debt is such a problem.

While concerns about accruing debt may make you nervous, obtaining your college degree is the key to better career opportunities and a higher earning potential throughout your professional life. So how do you earn the degree of your dreams without a mountain of debt? Follow these money-saving, debt-prevention tips and you'll see the benefits on graduation day. * Avoid the credit card blitz. As a college student you will be inundated with new credit card offers.

While the idea of spending now and paying later may be tempting, credit cards carry some of the highest interest rates available. Frequent use of your

credit card without paying the balance off in full will cause you to pile up debt quickly. What's worse, poor use of your credit card - maxing out the limit or making late payments - hurts your credit score and could make future purchases like a home or car more difficult. Avoid credit cards if possible, but if you must have a card, try to limit your cards to no more than two and don't charge more than you can pay off each month. * Maintain your current job or take a part-time job. Paying off credit cards or staying ahead is easier if you're working part-time. Many students don't want to work during their college years, but parttime work is an excellent way to avoid debt. Working even a few hours a week can help you pay down your bills and provide for a little financial cushion so you don't always have to feel like a poor college student. * Seek advice at your school. Universities across the country are more aware of student debt than ever before, and some of them are even instituting programs to help students save and reduce debt. Columbia College of Missouri's Money Stacks Program Continued on page 8 RuralLeaderMagazine.com 7

Small business, big commitment. Learn what's important to small business owners

A new survey commissioned by Ink from Chase and NAWBO found some interesting differences in how men and women operate their small businesses.

Explore the following infographic to see how men and women compare and how they are working to grow their businesses over the next 12 months.—BPT Money Saving Tips, continued pg 7 provides students with important financial education and the tips and tools they need to graduate with little to no debt. You'll learn about saving, spending smartly and how overall financial awareness can help you avoid debt. * Avoid using loan money for non-education related costs. Think your loans are like a low-interest credit card? Think again. Instead of looking at your loans as a source of free money, budget your loan money solely for tuition, books and related fees. This will ensure your loan money is spent as it was intended and you stay on budget. * Save money where you can. College is expensive, but there are plenty of ways you can save. Purchase new textbooks only after you've exhausted rental or used-book options. Living at home or in the dorms is more cost effective than renting a place of your own. Plus, if you live on campus or close to public transportation, you can eliminate the need to own your own vehicle, which will save you even more.

A college education is an investment that will benefit you the rest of your life, and while you may be concerned about the debt that pursuing a degree can create, saving and spending smartly will allow you to attain your degree without a mountain of bills. To learn more about Columbia College of Missouri and its Money Stacks Program, visit www.facebook.com/CCMoneyStacks.—BPT 8 RuralLeaderMagazine.com

2014 Small Town

America's

C

itizens of small towns and cities across the nation are truly unsung heroes. The level of involvement, commitment, and intense effort to improve their communities sometimes go unnoticed. They serve in various capacities throughout our nation: some are doctors, lawyers, judges, local, state, and federal government officials, teachers, students, bankers, ministers, and business owners. In essence, they are everyday people doing extraordinary things.

The full scope of their individual contributions may never be fully realized by those who do not understand the small town dynamic. However, collectively, these exemplary individuals represent the heart and soul of small communities.

  Our anonymous panel of judges received scores of nominations with the daunting task to select 100 individuals who met the following criteria: 1) nominee must reside within the United States and live or work within a small town or city with a population of 80,000 or less; and 2) be least 18 years of age and have made a significant contribution to community.

Nominees could self-nominate or be nominated by an individual, group, or organization. Nominations were accepted June 1st through July 31st.   Without further ado, we introduce the 2014 Small Town America's 100 Most Influential People. Rural Leader Magazine wishes each nominee continued success. Again, congratulations!

RuralLeaderMagazine.com 9

Robert Albritten Owner

Albritten Funeral Service Dawson, Georgia

Joe C. Bishop Judge

Pataula Judicial Circuit Superior Court Dawson, Georgia

Rev. Dr. Marvin Brown Minister New Providence Baptist Church

Ashburn, Georgia

Craig Cates Mayor

Key West, Florida

Mario Avery

Mayor Fairburn, Georgia

Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. U.S. Congressman GA 2nd District Columbus, Georgia

Dr. Raymond Burse President

Kentucky State University Frankfort, Kentucky

J. C. "Chris" Clark, Jr. President GA Chamber Fitzgerald, Georgia

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Brady Beckwith

Patty James-Bently

Hats for the Homeless Traverse City, Michigan

GA House Representative District 139 Butler, Georgia

Kenneth Boswell

Dr. David Bridges

Mayor

Enterprise, Alabama

President

Abraham Baldwin Ag College

Tifton, Georgia

Joyce Sutton-Cameron Mayor

Jimmy Carter 39th U. S. President

Bill Clinton

William C. Collins

Hope, Arkansas

Summerville, SC

Trotwood, Ohio

42nd U. S. President

Plains, Georgia

Mayor

Dr. Daniel Bingham Dean Helena College Helena, Montana

Kevin Brown

Community Advocate

Marion Co. Family Connection

Buena Vista, Georgia

Rosalyn Carter Former First Lady U. S. Plains, Georgia

John Culbreth

Retired Educator Albany, Georgia

Dr. Marvin Crumbs Principal Columbus High School Columbus, Georgia

James A. Diossa

Dr. Waded Cruzado President Montana State University

Victoria Darrisaw State Court Judge Albany, Georgia

Hardie Davis, Jr. GA State Senator District 22

Damascus, Virginia

T. Craig Earnest

Larry Ellison

Susan Upton Farley

Boseman, Montania

Alice Dupont

Mayor

Community Advocate Quincy, Florida

Pataula District Attorney Cuthbert, Georgia

Rev. Dr. Timothy French

Barbara Gaines Minister/Prophetess

Criss Garcia Councilman

Central Falls, Rhode Island

Minister Beulah Baptist Church Macon, Georgia

Gerald Greene GA House Rep. District 151

Cuthbert, Georgia

Orlando, Florida

Jacksonville, Oregon

Rosey Grier

Rodney Grogan

Minister/Actor/Former Professional Athlete Cuthbert, Georgia

Mayor Patterson, Louisiana

Augusta, Georgia

Owner

Gino Dino Artist

Lani, Hawaii

Mayor Village of Woodland, Ohio

Corderal Gilbert

Dana Graham

Minister New Generation Church Fort Gaines, Georgia

Hal Haeker

Mayor Alma, Nebraska

Mayor

Northfield, Minnesota

David S. Hamm, Jr. Minister

Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church Cuthbert, GA

RuralLeaderMagazine.com 11

Jeffrey Haynes

C. J. Huff

Superintendent Joplin Schools

Minister/Commissioner Early County, Georgia

Joplin, Missouri

Pamela G. Jackson Founder Youth Becoming Healthy Project

Michael Johnson

Michael Johnson

Cool Springs Baptist Church

Dane Co. Boys & Girls Club

Matt Largen

Fort Valley, Georgia

CEO

Madison, Wisconsin

Mayor

Cottonwood, Arizona

Albany, Georgia

Rev. Justin Johnson Pastor

Diane Joens

Community

Robert Johnson

Hank Johnson

U. S. Representative GA 4th District Lithonia, Georgia

Carvel C. Lewis

Owner Lewis Mortuary II

Columbus, Georgia

Mayor North Wilkesboro, Carolina

Georgetown, Georgia

U. S. Congressman GA 5th District

President and CEO Williamson, Inc.

Ricardo Lopez Mayor Crystal City, Texas

Mim McConnell Mayor Sitka, Alaska

Alan W. McDonald Mayor Heber, Utah

Rev. Charles McDonald

Anna McIntyre Extension Ball Park, Georgia

Andy McKenzie Mayor Wheeling, West Virginia

Michael S. Monrones

Steve Morford

John Lewis

Troy, Alabama

Minister Mt. Early Baptist Church Albany, Georgia

Franklin, Tennessee

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Mayor Silver City, New Mexico

Principal

Spearfish, South Dakota

Gene Morgan

Salvatore J. Panto, Jr.

Quincy, Florida

Easton, Pennsylvania

Commissioner

Karen Pfeifer Vice Mayor

Cottonwood, Arizona

James D. Reynolds Mayor

Mayor

Max Pittman

Owner P & P Land Services County EMA Director Benevolence, Georgia

Kevin C. Richardson Mayor

Eagle, Idaho

Lake Barrington, Illinois

Dorothy B. Scruggs

Bradley D. Sellers

Talbot Co. Family Connection

Warrensville Hgts, Ohio

Community Advocate Talbotton, Georgia

Mayor

Dr. Anthony O. Parker President Albany Technical College Albany, Georgia

Gary Raney Sheriff

Kris Peavy

Arthur Perkins Mayor Pro-Tem

Randolph Co. Ext./4-H Coleman, Georgia

Denham Springs, Louisiana

Jose A. Ray, Jr.

Winifred Rembert

Council Member

Boise, Idaho

Silver City, New Mexico

Artist Cuthbert, Georgia

Dr. Luke Robins President Penisula College

Tom Rouse

Mayor Sonoma, California

Turkeisa Rushin

Wayne Seybold

Jason Shelton

Port Angles, Washington

Mayor Marion, Indiana

Mayor

Minister

Empowerment Temple Cuthbert, Georgia

Shirley Sherrod

Tupelo, Mississippi

Author and Co-Founder SWGA Project, Inc. Baker County, Georgia

RuralLeaderMagazine.com 13

Freddie Powell Sims GA Senator District 12 Dawson, Georgia

Calvin Symre GA House Rep. District 135

Columbus, Georgia

Dr. Georgia Tuttle Mayor

Lebanon, New Hampshire

Richard West Founder/Owner West Foods IGA Edison, Georgia

Rev. Dr. Allen Smith

April Holt Smith

Founder Southern Gospel News Digital Magazine Potost, Missouri

CEO Butterfly Cosmetics & Laschon Kouture Buena Vista, Georgia

Marsha Taylor

Judith H. Thompson

Owner Secret Garden Embroidered Art & Gifts

Ben Wheeler, Texas

Jesse L. Tweedle, Sr. Mayor Plesantville, New Jersey

Joseph Williams

Commissioner Stewart County District 2 Lumpkin, Georgia

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Publisher/Editor The Metro Gazette Albany, Georgia

Dr. Peter Vermeulen Pastor Cuthbert UMC Cuthbert, Georgia

Yvonne H. Williams Author/Motivational Speaker Atlanta, Georgia

Byron Spires

Editor The Havana Herald Havana, Florida

Mike Thurmond Attorney/Author Athens, Georgia

Jennifer Vidrine Mayor Ville Platte, Louisiana

Christopher K. Wright Mayor Dawson, Georgia

Chris R. Stricklin

Colonel/U.S. Airforce Leadership Professional Montgomery, Alabama

James Turner Minister

Greater St. Mark MBC Camilla, Georgia

Dr. Eddie Watson Author/Minister

Clay Hill Christian Retreat Fort Gaines, Georgia

Dr. Paul Young

President Sheridan College Sheridan, Wyoming

Millennials: How to make your home ownership dreams a reality Owning a home is part of the American Dream, yet standards on income, credit and debt are making it tougher to buy a home than it was 10 years ago.

Even though requirements are relaxing, only three out of five borrowers get approved.

While stricter standards make it tougher for young families to qualify for a mortgage, millennials said they understand why these standards exist and think the tougher requirements won’t stand in their way of buying a home, according to a new survey commissioned by loanDepot.

In fact, millennials today are serious about doing what’s required to get a mortgage. The research surveyed 1,000 millennials who don’t own a home and found 35 percent plan to buy within five years.

What’s more, millenials are taking steps now to turn their dreams into a reality by getting their credit in order, paying down debt and saving for a down payment.

“Income is a key to opening the doors of homeownership for millennials, and they’re more than committed to it; they’re actively planning for it,” says Anthony Hsieh, chairman and chief executive officer, loanDepot LLC. “Our improving economy is making it practical for millennials who want to own their own homes in a few short years to get ready now.

Their strong desire to become homeowners, coupled with the commitment of getting their finances in order, suggests a renewal in first-time buyer demand may be possible if we sustain necessary economic and market conditions.”

With their prospects improving as the economy picks up, millennials are forming households faster and making more money compared to a few years ago. One in three millennials said an increase of

15 percent or less in income will be enough to turn them into homebuyers, a significant proposition for the economy.

Because mortgage lenders use debt-to-income to evaluate a borrowers’ ability to repay a loan, student debt is a growing burden on millennials interested in financing a home. Unlike medical debt, student debt carries an equal weight to credit card debt. Nearly half of those surveyed said it’s unfair to weigh both types of debt equally.

As for the tougher requirements to getting a mortgage, millennials do think the tougher standards guard against risky loans and will help prevent another mortgage crisis. More than half say making it easier to get a mortgage will result in more foreclosures.

If you have student debt and want to buy your first home, here are a few ideas and tips to help you prepare: * Lower your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). DTI is your total monthly income as compared to your total monthly debt payments. Most lenders will only lend to you if your DTI is at or below 43 percent. So to lower it, try to increase your income by pursuing a promotion or raise, finding a higher-paying job or taking on part-time work. Decrease your required monthly debt payments by refinancing or consolidating student loans and paying down any credit card balances. * Get your credit score in order. Analyze your credit report before you start the home buying process. Dispute incorrect derogatory information and ensure all three credit-reporting bureaus list all of your positive information. Pay all your bills on time, reduce credit card balances to 30 percent of the credit RuralLeaderMagazine.com 15

limit or lower, and don’t open new credit cards if you already have a few. * Save for a down payment. Make a budget for each month before it starts, with a plan for spending and saving, and stick to it. Stash away extra money from bonuses, overtime or financial gifts on your birthday or holidays. Find a roommate to help pay your rent or move into a less-expensive rental. Do freelance or contract work on the side. Sell unneeded stuff on Craigslist.-BPT

Saving Money on Your Holiday Shopping List The holidays can get expensive, especially if you have a large list of family and friends to shop for, or if you are planning to host a party or two. There are some ways, however, that you can save money this year and potentially make your planning for the season a bit easier as well.

Be sure to start early so you can take advantage of as many money-saving opportunities as possible.

And while you’re at it, try some of these ideas to keep more money in your pocket: * Keep an eye on your email. Click on the promotional emails from your favorite retailers letting you know about special holiday discounts. If you have your shopping list - and gift ideas - already planned out, you can take advantage of these special promotions. * With your list in hand, use your computer to compare prices quickly on those items. You can search several stores in a matter of minutes, and also discover coupon codes or cash-back options through Ebates.com, resulting in additional savings. Plus, you don’t need to drive all over town wasting time and gas money! * Thanks to the Internet and shipping, you can shop at almost any store in the nation. Use Ebates to find specialty stores and boutiques all across the 16 RuralLeaderMagazine.com

country that may offer an item at a cheaper price than if you were to shop at a retail store with a middleman markup. * Take advantage of holiday free-shipping offers, and have those gifts or decorating supplies for your upcoming parties delivered to your home or office - or the recipient’s house. Some stores also will have gift wrapping available for a minimal cost, helping you to save additional time and money on wrapping supplies. * Get some money back when you’re all finished.

Ebates not only provides you with free shipping discounts or coupon codes, but also will give you a check back in the mail for a percentage of your purchases. It’s a nice way to celebrate the holiday season, knowing that you’ve saved money and have some extra funds left when you’re all done with your shopping.

With these money-saving tips, you’ll be able to stick to your budget. This holiday season, you’ll be the family member who’s relaxed and enjoying the festivities happening all around you, because you will have accomplished everything on your to-do list and saved some money in the process.-BPT

10 tips for Becoming a More Efficient And Eco-Friendly Business

Sustainability is good for the environment, but did you know it's also good for the bottom line? The headlines are filled with stories about the latest and greatest sustainability goals and projects for large corporations. But, you don't have to be a giant company to be a green business.

Sixty-five percent of leaders at small and medium sized-businesses are committed to increasing eco-friendly activities, according to the Cox Conserves Sustainability Survey. The survey also revealed that half of small businesses believe sustainability is good for the bottom line and will become a standard practice in the next five years.

"Our research revealed that SMBs welcome the opportunity to learn more about sustainability, and there is compelling data that education can move the needle on sustainability," says Cox Enterprises Executive Vice President Alex Taylor. "There is a correlation between the amount of sustainability knowledge business leaders reported having and their level of participation in eco-friendly programs."

While some projects require large-scale investments, small businesses can easily become more efficient in many other ways. Here are some quick tips that can help any sized business improve efficiency.

1. Turn off computers and other office equipment when they are not in use.

2. Lower your heater thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting when your business is occupied.

Set the temperature back further when the business is unoccupied.

3. Use paper efficiently by printing double sided and using shredded scrap paper as packing materials for shipping.

4. Talk to your building manager about incorporating recycling programs, as well as energy and water-efficient appliances.

5. Offer paperless billing to reduce costs associated with materials and mailing.

Operating in an efficient manner is important, and engaging your customers and employees can also make a difference.

1. Consider teleworking as an option for employees.

2. Encourage employees to keep reusable mugs and bottles at work. Earth911 reports that the average American office worker uses 500 disposable cups every year.

3. Ask your employees for ideas on how to operate more efficiently.

4. Offer discounts to customers who bring their own bags or opt out of taking one.

5. Add a note to your email signatures with the message: Consider the environment. Please print this email only if necessary.

These easy tips can start your business on a journey toward becoming a more efficient and eco-friendly organization. The benefits start at protecting the earth and extend to enhancing the bottom line.—BPT RuralLeaderMagazine.com 17

Growing Your Business: Tips for Applying for Small Business Loans   The outlook for small business is up with many business owners feeling good about the future of the economy, their financial positions and their plans for growth, according to Capital One's Spark Business Barometer. But for many business owners looking to secure capital to either start or expand their enterprise, the process can be challenging, particularly for those with a limited or negative track record, or poor personal credit. Fortunately, there are a variety of products and programs designed to help address those challenges and enable business growth, one of which is offered through the U.S. Small Business Administration (or SBA).

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  SBA loans offer a number of key advantages, including longer payback terms and higher borrowing limits, which can be useful when financing necessities like real estate and equipment. For example, Freshbikes, a bicycle shop based in the Washington, D.C., area, worked with Capital One to refinance debt it incurred by expanding its business and opening new stores. This resulted in an improved payment schedule and additional working capital for the now-thriving business.   Unfortunately, despite the many benefits SBA loans offer, few small businesses take advantage of them, and those who do say they find the process for

applying for SBA loans "complex and confusing." In fact, Capital One's latest Spark Business Barometer found that a majority (79 percent) of small-business owners are aware of SBA loans, but only 9 percent have actually applied for one (and most business owners who did apply found the process complicated.)

There are a number of ways to simplify the SBA loan application process, and given the SBA recently announced that they will extend fee waivers for loans meeting certain requirements, now is a great time to understand how these loans can work for your business and consider applying for one.

Capital One has a few tips to keep in mind when applying for an SBA loan: *Know your business. The first thing any lender wants to know is how well you know your business.

Do you know your cost of sales, gross margin, payroll expenses off the top of your head? * Look for a Preferred Lender (PLP status). Preferred lenders have more experience and authority in processing SBA loans, which is critical when it comes to navigating the SBA's requirements and procedures. Working with a lender who fully understands the process and can explain it to you will make life a lot easier. Since they are experts in this area, typically your loan will close more quickly, as well. Preferred

lenders are usually listed on the SBA website for your state. You can always contact the SBA directly as well. * Come prepared. SBA loans require comprehensive document packages. Be prepared with full copies of your personal and business tax returns for the last three years, current financial statements and projections and personal financial statements. Check the SBA's website at www.sba.gov for required documentation for the product that interests you. Having a complete package up front can save a lot of time. *Consider applying for a smaller loan. In an effort to streamline the application process, the SBA recently announced plans to maintain current fee waivers to make it easier to secure smaller loans for small business, including a 2 percent fee waiver for loans $150,000 or less. If you want to reinvest in your business, now is a great time to act.

Capital One is committed to helping small-business owners achieve their financial goals by offering SBA loans with features or opportunities that might not be available through conventional loans, and helping small-business owners to navigate the application process. For more helpful information on managing a small business, visit www.capitalonesmallbusiness.com.—BPT

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Exciting STEM

Careers and Opportunities Aplenty in the Navy There's a big push for students to excel in the subjects of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), and for good reason. The careers available to students pursuing degrees in these areas present students with plenty of exciting and challenging opportunities. What you might not realize is how many of those opportunities exist in the Navy.

The Navy is looking for intelligent students with critical thinking skills who are interested in careers that involve working on the world's most-advance weapons systems, developing the next generation of medical technology, or a number of other fields of STEM study. It is estimated more than 1 million STEM jobs will be created by 2020, creating a great need in the market for qualified employees.

For these reasons, talented, committed individuals with a STEM education will be needed to maintain the U.S. as a world technology leader. The U.S. Navy is partnering with organizations across the U.S. to help promote an interest in STEM subjects among elementary to college-level students. The Navy STEM for the Classroom tool is available for teachers and students, providing lesson plans and interactive tools to increase learning in these subjects.

One program incorporating STEM subject learning with real-world experiences is the Oceanography and Meteorology lesson, which provides students and teachers in the classroom tools to learn, study and measure the principles of oceanography like waves, tides and currents. Once they understand how these principles affect ocean navigation, students will be able to pursue other exciting opportunities like a hands-on search-and-rescue scenario.

The Navy also offers the Navy Proving Grounds

widget, which is an interactive tool for students to test their minds in diving missions, flight school or at-sea trials.

Students with a background in STEM courses have the opportunity in the Navy to work with some of the most awe-inspiring ships, submarines, aircraft and communications systems, develop unmanned vehicles and robotics that keep people out of harm's way, and pioneer advances in everything from nuclear propulsion to biofuels or medical research. A STEM-related career in the Navy provides almost limitless possibilities for leadership and relevant experience.

Joining the Navy allows students interested in STEM subjects to continue their learning with ongoing development opportunities during nearly all stages of their career. These opportunities include: * Navy Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) scholarship program with up to $180,000 available for college. * Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program, which offers up to $168,300 for students who finish a degree in math, engineering, physics or chemistry, and allows them to begin the process to become a commissioned Navy Nuclear Officer. * Civil Engineer Collegiate Program giving students pursuing civil engineering degrees the opportunity to pursue projects around the world right out of college. This program also offers up to $113,100 while finishing a college degree.

For more information about opportunities to serve in the Navy, call 866-408-1241 or visit navy.com.— BPT

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How to Maximize Your Tax Benefits From Charitable Gifts You answer calls to support your alma mater, the local animal shelter and the American Red Cross with gifts of money and volunteer time. And after cleaning out the closets, dressers, kitchen cabinets and garage, you take a trunk load of donations to the thrift store.

You know your gifts of cash, time and household items may be tax deductible, but what do you need to do to verify that and maximize your deduction?

"Being charitable can cut your taxable income, as long as you follow a few simple rules," says Jessi Dolmage, spokesperson for popular digital tax preparation brand TaxACT. "Those include giving to eligible organizations and keeping accurate records."

To determine if you've donated to eligible organizations, search the IRS' database of Exempt Organization Select Check at www.irs.gov. Most religious organizations and government agencies are eligible, even if they're not listed in the database.

Keeping detailed records is important for accurate valuation of your gifts (and in turn your tax deduction) and in the unlikely event of an audit. Dolmage says records should include organization name, 22 RuralLeaderMagazine.com

donation date and amount.

For monetary gifts, keep the written acknowledgment from the organization with the donation date and amount. A canceled check or card statement with the transaction date also suffices for gifts under $250.

If you receive merchandise, benefits or privileges in exchange for a gift, you must subtract the value of those from the original gift amount. If your payment is more than $75, the organization must give you a written statement with a description and estimated value of the merchandise, goods or services.

For non-cash donations, document the charity name, date and location of the items, along with a reasonably detailed description of the items. If you receive a receipt from the charity, keep it with your records.

The IRS requires additional documentation for vehicle donations. You must receive a written acknowledgment or Form 1098-C from the charity for the vehicle.

Non-cash donations, such as clothing, kitchen gadgets and furniture, must be in good condition or

better. The tax-deductible amount of those items is the fair market value (FMV), the price if they were exchanged between willing buyers and sellers. Special rules apply to donations of cars, boats airplanes, property subject to debt, investments that have appreciated in value and inventory from your business.

Mobile apps can make tracking throughout the year painless. Donation Assistant by TaxACT tracks cash, non-cash and recurring gifts, with FMVs for more than 1,300 commonly donated household items. You can also save photos of your donations and receipts. When doing your taxes, import the information and TaxACT Deluxe will calculate your maximum deduction and complete your tax forms.

You can deduct charitable gifts you made between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31 only if you itemize deductions on Form 1040 Schedule A. In order to itemize, all of your itemized deductions must exceed the standard deduction amount based on your adjusted gross income and filing status.

Additionally, you must file Form 8283 if your non-cash contributions total more than $500, and include a qualified appraisal of property worth more than $5,000.

Download the free Donation Assistant app at www.taxact.com/apps and learn more about the tax rules of charitable giving at www.irs.gov and www.taxact.com/taxinfo.—BPT

Important Guidelines for Landing that Perfect Job

Graduating students are out in droves trying to find jobs that will enhance their careers. But before beginning the resume and interviewing process, there are certain do's and don'ts that students should be aware of so they will be competitive in today's limited job

market.

"Beyond the usual resume and interview, it is also important to note that having a social media presence is mandatory," says Stephanie Hausladen, director of career services for Heald College - Fresno. "Recruiters will do their

homework before they invite you in for an interview - 98 percent of recruiters are using social recruiting according to a recent survey from Bullhorn."

Hausladen says to keep these tips in mind: Social networking do's (Cont'd on page 25) RuralLeaderMagazine.com 23

Georgia State Chamber Director Heads South Sara L. Crumbs

L

J. C. "Chris" Clark, Jr. Director Georgia Chamber of Commerce

iving in a rural community has some of piece in solving the poverty issue. Education, parthe greatest advantages in the world. You ticularly in grades K-12 are another factor that Clark know your neighbors. You don't have a believes is necessary to change. sense of urgency most find in big cities.

“In Georgia I think we are lucky,” he states. “We You value team work because working have a very strong University system. We have together can bring in some big results. a technical college system that is tops anywhere.

And yet, most of us in the rural communities often While we have pockets on K-12 that are improving, feel ignored by the bigger cities in our state. So when the jobs of the future are going to require some kind Chris Clark, director of the Georgia Chamber of of degree. We are graduating kids now that can't Commerce visits Southwest Georgia, it is a big deal. compete in college.”

Clark, originally from Fitzgerald, spoke to mem He believes that we need to have a major conversabers of the community during the Council of Govtion about education. He sees the state as graduation ernments meeting in Cuthbert, GA. two tiers of students. The disparity between one “We are servant leaders to serve the businesses of student who has access to the latest technology and the state of Georgia,” he begins. “We want the state opportunities, which many in metropolitan areas to be more competitive. We want our communities have, versus those students in rural communities to be more competitive, our businesses to be more who are working with less that adequate materials, competitive and for individuals “We are servant leaders we have kids who can't compete. to be more competitive.”

We have to invest in technology. We Clark stresses that his job is to serve the businesses of have to invest in the schools and we to remove the obstacles to the the state of Georgia..." have to hold our kids to higher stansuccess of these four entities. dards, as well.

But taking a look at rural Southwest Georgia and it's “We play a c couple of different roles,” Clark said standing for economic success based on education, when asked about the influence the State Chamber employment, voter turn-out and other factors, Clark has regarding education. “One of them is to look at has ideas on what the current picture is and what it policies and to advocate for those policies that we will take to make a change for the better. know will make a difference. Part of our job is to “The state of it is that we're seeing some improvemake sure that we have the best data so that legislament but we're not anywhere near the growth that we tors have the right information to make the best desee in some of the more metropolitan areas,” he said. cisions. We also realize that the Chamber is unique “That's not just Georgia but Alabama, North Florida, that we have a member in every community. We can and Tennessee. When you look at the numbers hard bring members together to talk about what needs to and you look at that black belt coming down from take place to make education better.”

Virginia and sweeps all the way down into Louisiana, The third issue involves transportation and inwe do have persistent poverty in that area.” frastructure to help with economic success in rural Clark points out some immediate needs that Georgia. should be addressed to overcome this issue. Health “We have to invest in infrastructure so that comcare is a big issue to bringing in companies and mak- panies can get their workers in and out, their goods ing the area more competitive. He sees it as a critical and products in and out,” he added. — 24 RuralLeaderMagazine.com

Leadership is influence...

Nothing more...Nothing less.

John Maxwell

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Landing the Perfect Job, continued from page 23 * Recruiters using social media to check out potential employees breaks down to the following: LinkedIn (97 percent), Facebook (51 percent), Twitter (49 percent), Google+ (19.1 percent), and Pinterest (3.6 percent), so make sure your bio, your skill sets and your interests are current and accurate and be sure to have a professional photograph taken and used for these sites. * Google your name before being interviewed so you know what is out there. Your interviewer will check all social media outlets before talking to you. * Set those privacy settings. If you don't, the world will know what you did over the weekend and it could jeopardize your chances of getting the interview or even the job.

Social networking don't s * Don't tweet anything inappropriate, someone is always looking. * Don't post compromising pictures, jokes or personal stories on the Internet. Recruiters and potential employers are checking.

Beyond social media, an integral process of job hunting involves having a proper resume, below are some resume do's and don't s to remember.

Resume do's or FAKTA Focus: Make your resume reader friendly and use bullet points for specifics.

Appearance: Do not use the title resume. Put name, address, one phone number, an email address, education, and experience. In describing you former employment list your title/position, the name of the employer, the city and state (no street address) and dates of employment. In describing your education spell out the name of the degree (Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts), the name of the college, the city and state where it is located and your major and minor. Do not justify margins or use smaller than 10.5 font.

Keywords: In order to get noticed, your resume needs to contain keywords that directly target the jobs you are interested in. Your resume keywords should include specific job requirements, including your skills, software and technology competencies, relevant credentials and previous employers. There are various websites that list keywords.

Transferable skills: Transferable skills are the skills you've gathered through various jobs, volunteer work, sports or other life experiences that can be used in your next job or new career.

Accomplishments: A solid list of accomplishments on a resume can demonstrate your work ethic and ability to achieve results but avoid exaggeration, irrel26 RuralLeaderMagazine.com

evancies and ancient history. Accomplishments are more important to describe than duties.

Resume don't s * Don't have misspellings or typos; proofread carefully. * Don't put a career objective statement at the beginning. * Don't use personal pronouns or include personal interests or hobbies. * Don't lie. * Don't have an inappropriate email address. What may have been cute in college may not be accepted in a professional setting.

Interview do's * Wear appropriate, conservative clothing. * Arrive at least 10 minutes before the interview to give yourself time to freshen up. * Treat others in the office with respect. They may be asked how you treated them. * Have a firm handshake. * Make eye contact with the interviewer at all times. * Write the interviewer a thank you note.

Interview don't s * Don't make excuses for past decisions or make negative comments about former employers. * Don't bring up salary or appear desperate for employment. * Don't treat the interview casually like you are shopping around for a job. * Don't chew gum or suck on candy (including breath mints). * Don't play with your cellphone while waiting for your interview to start. * Don't interrupt the interviewer.

By following these guidelines, prospective employees will have a better chance to compete in the job market and land that perfect job. The Internet is an invaluable source of information on how to be the best candidate for a job.—BPT

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Honoring Young Individuals for Exemplary Academic Achievement and Service to Community

Under 20 Nationally and Abroad

   Rural Leader Magazine Under 20 Initiative was created to recognize outstanding youth in small rural communities nationally and abroad. We need your help to identify deserving youth for future editions. Visit RuralLeaderMagazine.com to nominate.

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