RnR Village

Value Investing Blog Releases Series on Stock Valuation and How to Value Company Shares

2011-06-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

Value Investing Blog Releases Series on Stock Valuation and How to Value Company Shares

Economic Update – The Challenges We Face

2009-12-10T07:27:00.000-08:00

By Ken Faulkenberry

The economy continues to go through profound changes in efforts to absorb the shock of two bubbles in one decade. Our nation currently faces high unemployment, large and growing deficits, and a ballooning national debt. Instead of implementing sound fiscal and monetary policies, government policies of the past decade have and are compounding our long term problems. The economy lurches between deflation and inflation as the policies of the government vacillate depending on what the current objective of politicians and the Federal Reserve are at the moment.

In addition, an aging population of 80 million retiring baby-boomers promises to put a severe strain on entitlement programs for decades to come. Unlike any time period ever faced, we will have a shrinking number of young productive taxpaying workers as compared to older people who need the entitlement programs far beyond their projected resources.

The bottom line is we are going to face much slower growth in the United States than we have faced in previous decades. This decade was a prelude to the kind of investment environment we may face going forward. The result is a buy and hold strategy will produce subpar results due to its lack of ability to adapt to a tough and unsteady environment. More than anytime in the past, diligent research, and adaptation to a constantly changing environment are required to build wealth. Diversification, asset allocation, and regular re-balancing are necessary for a successful investment plan.

Unfortunately, very few mutual funds have adapted to the new reality resulting in very poor investment returns. Much of this poor performance is due to over-diversification. The current environment produces more struggling companies and fewer winners; bringing down the average performance. The very broad diversification typical of most mutual funds means less money is allocated to the best investments. While under-diversification is a deadly mistake, over-diversification leads to mediocre returns or worse?

Because of today’s environment investors should consider managing their own investments. With low discounted commissions, investors with a minimal size portfolio can efficiently put an asset allocated portfolio together and stay in control of their own destiny. Investors who need help with the research, or putting together a properly diversified portfolio can hire a service such as the Arbor Investment Planner. The AIP provides a properly diversified asset allocated model portfolio and specific buy and sell recommendations to its online subscribers. Check out the excellent 10 year record of the Arbor Asset Allocation Model Portfolio (AAAMP) here: www.blog.ArborInvestmentPlanner.com/?page_id=141

Wells Fargo Bank Supports Community with Renewal of Spring-Klein Chamber Membership

2009-12-01T15:08:00.000-08:00

Toni Richard, SKCC president, presents Wells Fargo Bank, Kuykendahl branch, with their 2009 Membership Plaque.

Wells Fargo Bank, Kuykendahl branch, recently renewed their membership with the Spring-Klein Chamber of Commerce (SKCC) in November 2009. Sam Avery, branch president, continually exhibits support of the community where the Wells Fargo branch is located by actively involving himself and his branch with their customers in a very customer-service oriented way. The SKCC proudly welcomes their faithful support of the Spring and Klein areas and looks forward to a long-term partnership with the branch and the other wonderful banks that invest their time and finances into the community.

Implementing an Active Asset Allocation Strategy

2009-11-30T14:28:00.000-08:00

by Ken Faulkenberry, Principal and Chief Investment Officer, Arbor Investment Planner

If flexibility makes an active asset allocation strategy superior to a simple buy and hold strategy; then the next question is: How does an Investor implement a successful active asset allocation strategy?

The key to a successful active asset allocation strategy is determining what the most effective mix of investment opportunities is. Diversification among different asset categories is crucial. The Arbor Asset Allocation Model Portfolio (AAAMP) uses 4 simple categories, Global Income, Dividend Growth, Aggressive Growth, and International Growth. Each category can be further divided into subcategories (i.e. Large Cap, Mid Cap, and Small Cap. etc.).

The key benefit of an active asset allocation strategy is the ability to change your asset allocation in asset categories, subcategories, and individual investments. Economics, politics, and the volatility of the market itself, change the opportunities and risk of each asset allocation. Therefore it takes time and knowledge to properly research the investment climate and the different opportunities and risk involved with each. It is no different with any another investment strategy except the opportunities and the research are ongoing.

Determining which assets maximize potential rewards and minimize risk make knowledge and research a critical part of any investment strategy. In general, individual Investors have not been successful because they either invest in institutions (i.e. mutual funds, pension plans) that implement a buy and hold strategy and/or over diversify; or lack the time, resources, or knowledge to make proper asset allocation decisions.

One solution is for Investors to manage their own portfolio with the help of a portfolio management service such as the Arbor Investment Planner. The Arbor Asset Allocation Model Portfolio (AAAMP) is the real-time portfolio of the AIP, for the benefit of its’ Subscribers. The AAAMP carefully looks for areas of opportunity where prices may not reflect their real value or potential. Investments are placed in the proper asset allocation category and constantly monitored to stay properly diversified at all times. This takes time and knowledge to research economics, politics, and markets worldwide.

The Arbor Asset Allocation Model Portfolio (AAAMP) has successfully navigated the volatility of the past decade with an active asset allocation strategy. The results have been very low volatility and excellent returns for those who have chosen to take advantage of the Arbor Investment Planner.

The Arbor Investment Planner is not a get rich quick strategy, but a disciplined, methodical, and conservative strategy with a track record of out performing and less risk than the market.

To further investigate the Arbor Investment Planner, I invite you to read the portfolio management articles on my blog and connect with me on Facebook.

www.blog.ArborInvestmentPlanner.com/?cat=5

www.facebook.com/ken.faulkenberry

Texas based Investment Planner launches unique Investment Blog

2009-07-02T13:40:00.000-07:00

ArborInvestmentPlanner.com launched a free Investment Blog with portfolio management articles, blogroll, and personal finance and political websites pertinent to investor’s financial health

Houston, TX – (PRWeb) - ArborInvestmentPlanner.com launched a new Investment Blog aimed at independent investors who want to manage their own portfolio. The new blog includes investment portfolio management articles, blogroll, investment and political web sites.

Owner, Ken Faulkenberry states “we have put together the best Conservative, Libertarian, and Christian based blogs and web sites at one location”. He also admitted “We hope while investors are exploring they note the outstanding long and short term performance of the Arbor Asset Allocation Model Portfolio (AAAMP)”

ArborInvestmentPlanner.com is a stock and ETF online portfolio management service which provides a real-time model portfolio, trade alerts, updates, and special reports to subscribers. The new blog is a free service and accessible to everyone.

New Blog: www.ArborInvestmentPlanner.wordpress.com.

Jennifer Grassman

2009-06-09T13:41:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Grassman

This Sunday, June 14, Jennifer will be interviewed live on KSBJ 89.3 Radio at 5:30 PM. Tune in online via www.KSBJ.org. Jennifer will be talking about her June 19 charitable concert, RAINN Over Houston, to benefit The Rape Abuse & Incest National Network (www.rainn.org).

Five Essential Themes For Every Investment Portfolio

2009-05-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

ArborInvestmentPlanner.com
SPECIAL REPORT
By Ken Faulkenberry

How do you get a strategic advantage that can add the percentage point or two that really gives your investment portfolio extraordinary returns?

Look at what one or two extra percentage points return can mean to your portfolio. A $100,000 investment earning 8% for 30 years returns $1,093,573, at 9% returns $1,473,057, and at 10% returns $1,983,740. It’s amazing what that extra two percentage point return does over a lifetime!

Return on investment is driven by supply and demand. If you have demand that outstrips supply; the return on investing in that product or service will have to be higher than average to attract investors into investing and meeting that need. Therefore, everything being equal, if you can invest where demand is high and growing you can expect a higher than average rate of return on your investment.

Here are five themes with the potential of providing the extra return on investment that transforms your portfolio from average to extraordinary:

ENERGY – Whether we are talking about oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear energy, or new green energy, we will probably need it all. We already use all the energy we produce worldwide. The tremendous growth expected in the standard of living of the emerging markets, in addition to worldwide increase in population, will force us to find more ways to produce and deliver energy to an energy starved world.

INFRASTRUCTURE – No state or nation is able to thrive without the infrastructure to support growing economies and populations. Airports, railroads, highways, communications, etc. are all needed to move people, products, and information efficiently. Developed countries have old and neglected infrastructure needs. Emerging markets have unending needs for new infrastructure.

FOOD/NUTRITION- As third world nations develop they require more and higher quality food. This process is already under way. Add world population growth and you have ever increasing demand for good nutrition and quality food for decades to come.

DEFENSE/TERRORISM/WAR – We live in a dangerous world. Trends that include an increasing number of fanatics willing to kill innocent people will require technology and diligence to defeat. Add to the fact that as we have become more global and mobile we have needed more resources to keep the peace, not less.

HEALTH/ENVIRONMENT – This might be the most rewarding and riskiest investment of the five. Due to population growth in the developing markets, higher standards of living being demanded by emerging countries, and the aging of the developed nations (particularly the U.S. and Japan); the demand for health care and need for environmental services are expanding rapidly and possibly outstripping any other area. The growing risk is the trend toward government which socializes the industry and creates rationing instead of a free market that innovates and grows to meet expanding needs. Therefore, one must be extra careful when investing in this area.

Each of these five themes have the potential to provide extraordinary investment returns because the demand created by the global market place will require these needs be met. Choosing individual investments that provide a properly diversified asset allocated portfolio takes knowledge and many hours of research. Ken Faulkenberry, principal at ArborInvestmentPlanner.com, asserts, “We take advantage of global trends and provide the Arbor Asset Allocation Model Portfolio (AAAMP), Trade Alerts, and Updates to help independent investors make their own investment decisions.”

“People want to stay in control of their assets,” says Faulkenberry, “but lack the time, resources, or knowledge to research individual investments and place them in a properly diversified portfolio. Companies like Arbor Investment Planner provide these services, along with peace of mind.”

More information is available at: www.ArborInvestmentPlanner.com.

Pretty Girls Wins Gold Remi at Worldfest Houston Film Festival

2009-04-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

Zenfilm and Jennifer Grassman’s music video collaboration continues to earn respect among artistic peers

Houston, TX – April 28, 2009 – Jennifer Grassman Music and Zenfilm celebrate yet another award for their music video collaboration Pretty Girls. The Worldfest Houston Film Festival presented the artistic team, which includes TLM Productions, with the coveted Gold Remi. In February 2009, the video also received a Silver Addy from the American Advertising Federation.

“This recognition means so much to me as an artist,” says Grassman. “It is a true honor to have Worldfest and The American Advertising Federation recognize our work with such distinguished awards.”

Pretty Girls, Grassman's first music video, unveiled worldwide in December 2008. The visually stimulating production is garnering significant US and international attention, including airplay on MTV-UK and festival screenings across the United States.

The track single hails from her debut album At the Back of the North Wind and is described as a “surreal, dark and beautiful homage to women through the centuries and the joys and dangers that their beauty has drawn into their lives” by Zenfilm director Ross Wells.

Filmed in and around a 150 year old rural farmhouse outside of Richmond, Texas, Pretty Girls captures dramatic and dangerous moments in the lives of attractive females throughout the ages. The narrative is intercut with dynamic performance footage of Jennifer Grassman filmed in Studio A of 'The Abbey Road of the South', historic SugarHill Studios, in Houston.

The award-winning video is gaining a rampant online viral presence on channels such as Vimeo and YouTube. To view Jennifer Grassman’s Pretty Girls music video, visit www.JenniferGrassman.com.

About Jennifer Grassman

Jennifer Grassman is a vocalist, pianist, composer and recording artist. Grassman’s music effortlessly fuses diverse elements of classical, Celtic, gothic and rock styles into a beautiful, moving genre all her own. She resides in northwest Houston, Texas with her husband and two cats. To learn more, please visit www.JenniferGrassman.com or www.rainnoverhouston.org.

About Zenfilm

Zenfilm is a film production company and postproduction boutique founded by the award winning team of Executive Producer Merideth Melville and Director W. Ross Wells. The company has produced award winning music videos that have received international airplay and festival recognition in recent years. Zenfilm worked together with Dan Workman and Andrew Amelang of TLM Productions to bring this project to the screen. For additional information, visit www.zenfilm.com or http://wrosswells.com.

Special Report: What are ETFs? Should they be in your portfolio?

2009-04-28T12:18:00.000-07:00

ArborInvestmentPlanner.com

April 2009

Special Report

What Are ETFs?
Should They Be In Your Portfolio?

ETF stands for Exchange Traded Fund. Used as an investment vehicle, they are a hybrid of mutual funds, stocks, and closed-end mutual funds. Like stocks or closed-end mutual funds, ETFs trade on a market exchange so they can be traded (intraday) anytime stocks trade, not just at the end of the day. It has multiple holdings or investments inside it like a mutual fund or closed-end fund. It has a certain number of shares outstanding on a given day that investors buy or sell to change their position, like a stock or closed-end fund. But unlike closed-end funds which can trade at a discount or premium to their NAV (Net Asset Value), ETFs typically trade close to their NAV because they can be exchanged in-kind with baskets of the underlying securities by authorized institutions.

The ability to trade intra-day may or may not be important in an individual investor, but it definitely is a nice feature. The ability to have multiple holdings or track a specific index is a major positive attribute since diversification is so important. The fact that ETFs have shares outstanding and don't have to liquidate small amounts protects shareholders because fund managers are not forced to liquidate assets on demand that drive up commissions and fund expenses.

In addition to the above, ETFs have other important attributes. ETFs generally have lower expenses ratios than mutual funds due to the way they are structured. Like sector mutual funds ETFs can segment to very specific or targeted sectors of the economy. This allows investors to have a diversified position in a small slice of a sector you want to be invested in. For example, ArborInvestmentPlanner.com believes potable water is going to be a scarce resource this century. There are few pure water plays or opportunities in individual stocks, but you can buy ETFs that specialize in companies in the water industry. This allows you to take a small position that is diversified.

While there are many positive attributes to ETFs, there is one major drawback. Since most ETFs are not actively managed, but are programmed to follow a specific index, the index and therefore the EFT, may not own the very best stocks. Actively managed ETFs will generally have higher expense ratios than ETFs tied to an index. This is why it's important to either do your own homework or have someone you trust such as ArborInvestmentPlanner.com doing your research for you.

Like any investment, ETFs require research and knowledge to be able to place them in a properly diversified asset allocated portfolio. ETFs play an important role in the Arbor Asset Allocation Model Portfolio (AAAMP) by providing an inexpensive way to diversify small positions in targeted sectors of the market (i.e. Water Resources, Precious Metals Mining, Agribusiness, Environmental Services, Biotechnology, etc). The Arbor Asset Allocation Model Portfolio (AAAMP) usually holds 25-40 individual positions of which typically about one-third are ETFs.

More information is available at www.ArborInvestmentPlanner.com.

Sincerely
Ken Faulkenberry
ArborInvestmentPlanner.com

Commissioner Jerry Eversole to Speak at SKCC Christmas in July Gala

2009-03-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

Spring, Texas – March 25, 2009 – The Spring-Klein Chamber of Commerce (SKCC) is proud to announce that Jerry Eversole, Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner, will be the special guest speaker at the chamber’s 2nd Annual Christmas in July Gala.
“We are pleased that Commissioner Eversole accepted our invitation to be our guest speaker this year,” said Toni Richard, SKCC president. “When I heard him speak at the Pundt Park Grand Opening, he was so personable and witty. His humor, passion for the community and down-to-earth personality complement our membership and our mission for the Spring-Klein area.”
Commissioner Eversole is currently serving his fifth four-year term as commissioner of Precinct 4, the largest Harris County precinct, encompassing 587.1 square miles with over 904,000 residents.
“The Spring-Klein Chamber of Commerce represents the fastest growing segment of the Houston Metropolitan area,” states Elle Carnes, the Christmas in July Committee chairperson. “Spring, Texas made up 54% of the growth in Harris County last year. Our invitation to Commissioner Eversole, a well-respected figure in our community, is an extension of our goal to promote what is great about Spring.”
In tandem with the Commissioner’s appearance, the gala includes a live auction and the Chamber will also recognize the year’s most distinguished business for their service to the community with the ‘Toni Awards.’
The SKCC, which celebrates its one year anniversary this May, held its first Gala last year only two months after their inaugural meeting. Larry Joe Doherty, best known for his television role as Judge Larry Joe on Texas Justice, and his wife, Joanne, were the featured guests celebrating with nearly 80 attendees.
The 2009 Christmas in July Gala and Awards Ceremony will be held at the Shady Oaks Banquet Hall, located at 909 Lemm Road One, in Spring on Friday, July 24, 2009 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Advertising, sponsorship opportunities and live and silent auction details are available online. Early bird tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at only $50 for members and $55 for non-members until April 30. For more details, please visit www.springkleinchamber.org or contact Elle Carnes at 281-912-1107 or elle@explorespring.com.

ABOUT THE SPRING KLEIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: Founded in May 2008, the Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce (SKCC) is the business and community support organization dedicated to being the primary resource for area economic development, business expansion and overall quality of life in Spring-Klein. For more information, visit www.springkleinchamber.org or call 281-257-4431.

Creativity Blended with Expertise - 4 Simple and Economical Strategies to Build Your Image

2009-03-08T14:43:00.000-07:00

By Candace Runaas
Recently I had the pleasure of hearing an interesting speaker. Ronnie Wilsher,(www.RonaldWilsher.com), self-described 'Hope Dealer,' spoke to our Chamber of Commerce about branding oneself. My interest was peaked, of course. This is the essence of Public Relations, building an image. PR is conveying, to the viewer, listener or reader, a brand for the organization or the individual.

In this economy we are all cutting costs, but never neglect the promotion of your music, company or non-profit. You currently have the upperhand!! When others are scaling back, push forward all the more. This is your moment to stand out. Be smart and consider your options.

Here are my four simple and economic strategies to leverage your image:

1. Invest more time and money into your existing website, upgrading it with Search Engine Optimization, new photos, etc. Lack of activity on your site lowers your ranking with search engines. Keep it fresh!

2. An economical solution is to take the time to do a daily blog or e-mail newsletter. You can offer free tips and information that can help others to grow their companies. I believe in the Distribution of Wealth... when it comes to knowledge.

3. NETWORK! Network! Network! Either meeting business peers at mixers, luncheon, Toastmasters, etc. or using online social media such as Facebook, LinkedIn, MySpace, etc. As people meet you face to face, eventually the need will arise for your product or service. We all prefer to do business with someone we know.

4. Speaking of Toastmasters, hone your public speaking skills... then offer to speak at an event for little to no cost. Your expertise in your field will come across and you will be promoting your company or organization.

After establishing a presence, your brand as an expert will be solid when the economy is on the upswing (and it will swing up). You will have leveraged a very strong image leading to a significant ROI.

Ronnie Wilsher said something during the luncheon that will 'haunt' me to the day I die, "If I'm not having fun, then I'm not going to do it."

I wholeheartedly agree with him. By all means, please have fun. Enjoy yourself, get out and showcase your talents and your knowledge! Your investment in time will pay significant dividends that can't be affected by banks or recessions. You will have built your image. Thanks Ronnie for the inspiration!

World Premiere Jennifer Grassman "Pretty Girls" Music Video

2008-12-18T10:53:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Grassman "Pretty Girls" Music Video from W. Ross Wells on Vimeo.

2008-12-02T22:53:00.000-08:00

Local Celebrity Hosts First Houston Concert to Benefit Victims of Sexual Assault

2008-07-31T15:55:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Local Celebrity Hosts First Houston Concert to Benefit Victims of Sexual Assault

All net proceeds from the concert to support the nation’s largest anti-sexual assault organization

Spring, TX – July 29, 2008 – Jennifer Grassman, local celebrity and recording artist, will host the city’s first RAINN Over Houston Benefit Concert, to help support the efforts of the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN). The fundraising concert will take place at the Meridian in Houston in June of 2009.

“It is a tragedy that has tainted the lives of many of us,” says Grassman. “I myself am an abuse survivor. My best friend is a rape survivor. We are not alone.” Every two minutes someone in the United States is sexually assaulted and 60% of those cases go unreported to the police, according to RAINN, the country’s largest anti-sexual assault organization.

Grassman, a resident of Spring, is hosting the event to raise awareness and educate the public on how to reduce the risks of assault for themselves and their loved ones. She will perform during the concert, which will feature speakers and other notable Houston personalities, such as Ernie Manouse, show host of PBS’ Inner Views.

The financial goal of the event is to raise at least $30,000 with 100% of net proceeds to be donated to RAINN. Grassman is also dedicating her third album to the organization and contributing a portion of the sale proceeds to their cause.

Tickets will go on sale early next year. Several sponsorship packages are available for local benefactors to consider. For more information on the concert or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jennifer Grassman Music at jennifergrassmanmusic@comcast.net or 281-573-0610.

###

Jennifer Grassman is a singer, composer and recording artist. Her songs are inspired by her desire to console and reassure listeners who are suffering and to inspire meaningful thought and great expectations. She is currently on tour in Texas. To learn more, please visit www.myspace.com/JenniferGrassman or www.myspace.com/rainnoverhouston.

The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-HOPE) which has helped over 1.2 million people since its inception in 1994. RAINN recently launched the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline (www.rainn.org), the country’s first secure web-based hotline, which provides a safe, secure and anonymous place for victims to get help online. RAINN also helps to educate over 130 million college students each year about sexual assault, and leads national efforts to improve services to victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice.

CONTACT:
Candace Runaas
Runaas Resources Public Relations
281-257-4431
www.runaasresources.com

SKCC June Luncheon photos

2008-06-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

Baby Grace was at the Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce Luncheon held Tuesday, June 3rd. What is the youngest member of the Spring Klein Chamber smiling about? She just learned how to optimize websites and networked with a lot of dynamic business leaders in the Spring Klein area. Visit our website at www.springkleinchamber.org to find out more.

Passing the time!

2008-06-02T20:49:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been a long time since I visited this blog. I have another blog on Wordpress.com and so it is literally impossible (for me) to keep up two blogs at one time.

SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION
I am quite involved in perfecting my Search Engine Optimization techniques and web content development. I have been working extensively with one of the most masterful web designers in NW Houston, Darren E of Pixelbit Studios (www.pixelbitstudios.com and www.webdesignthewoodlands.com). Darren really knows his stuff and we work together with Matt K of GDFX in the Woodlands, a graphic design company (www.graphicdesignthewoodlands.com). Another genius especially when it comes to logos and designs. I also have a wonderful comrade that truly understands SEO and that is Javier Avellan. He will be speaking at the Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce Luncheon on Tuesday, June 3rd. I am really proud to know him and glad that he will be speaking at our luncheon. He is a good hearted man and extremely knowledgeable about internet marketing.

SPRING KLEIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
What an exciting time to be a member of the Spring community! I am very proud to be one of the co-founders of this organization and look forward to its continued growth and impact on our area. Our second luncheon is tomorrow and we will have another healthy turnout for the event. Looking forward to meeting more new people and working with existing members on the upcoming Christmas in July event. Our luncheons are the first Tuesday of every month. We take plenty of photos so join us and maybe you can be in the next issue of the Tomball-Spring Times. Small Business and Corporate members will receive their day in print with every new membership. Form more information, visit www.springkleinchamber.org

UNTIL NEXT TIME...
This is Candace Runaas signing off. I have a lot to prepare for tomorrow's luncheon. Hopefully, I will visit this blog more often... at least before Election Day in November.

Candace Runaas with Andrea White, author, lawyer and wife of Houston Mayor Bill White

2008-05-09T22:02:00.000-07:00

Houston Chronicle Article 4/24/08 - printed in the Spring/Klein/Tomball Z14 section

2008-04-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

Tomball/Magnolia News

April 21, 2008, 10:19AM
Business owners might organize a new chamber of commerce for Spring/Klein communities
First meeting is scheduled for May 6

By KIM JACKSON
Chronicle Correspondent

Two small business owners are testing the waters to see if other local businesses in the Spring/Klein communities are interested in launching a new chamber of commerce.

Toni Richard, owner of the bi-weekly Tomball-Spring Times community newspaper, and Candace Runaas, owner of Runaas Resources Public Relations, said they expect a strong showing from business owners at the Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce's kick-off luncheon 11 a.m.-2 p.m. May 6 at the Sizzler Restaurant, 6062 FM 2920. They expect at least 60 to attend.

Harris County Precinct 4 Constable Ron Hickman will be the keynote speaker.

"This is our first step," Runaas said. "We are holding the luncheon to gauge interest in the community. If they say, 'Yes! We want a new chamber!' we will respond to that."

Richard said the response so far has been overwhelmingly in favor of moving forward with the formation of the Spring Klein Chamber. She said she believes, and has heard from others, that there is a need for a chamber that focuses on the Spring Klein area.

Richard said she came up with the idea of forming a new chamber after meeting and talking with local business owners who said they saw a need in the area for networking opportunities. She floated the idea with friend Runaas, who shared a passion for the Spring/Klein community and Klein Independent School District.

"We got together and I said, 'Let's go! Let's do it!'" Richard said.

The organization is in the formative stage, but the two founders have obtained a "DBA" (doing business as), and launched a Web site at www.springkleinchamber.org and a blog at springklein.wordpress.com

The Web site is under construction, but contains information about the luncheon, the chamber's mission statement and membership fees.

If the community backs the effort, Richard said, the next steps would be to form nonprofit organization; to appoint a board of directors; and to work out the organization's structure.

Richard said the area the chamber would serve is not set in stone, but would probably go north to the northern tip of Spring/southern tip of The Woodlands; west to Texas 249, but not into the city of Tomball; east to Interstate 45; and south to Cypresswood Drive or FM 1960.

Runaas said the area is a part of the established Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce's larger coverage area, but there is no chamber focused solely on Spring and Klein.

"The Northwest Chamber does a phenomenal job," Runaas said. "There is no way we can provide what they provide at this stage. However, we have had a lot of people have asked us to do this and we are excited about the idea."

Barbara Thomason, president of the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce, said she is aware of the effort to form the Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce. She said the new chamber's proposed boundaries would encompass a large section of the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce's primary coverage area, which is bounded by the Montgomery- Harris counties line on the north, Aldine-Westfield/Hardy Toll Road on the east, the Sam Houston Parkway on the south, and an area midway between Texas 249 and U.S. 290 on the west.

The Houston Northwest Chamber has close to 200 members in the Spring Klein Chamber's proposed service area.

"We have served the area for 35 years and a uniquely positioned to help our businesses because of our resources and long-standing position in the community," Thomason said.

For more information about the Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce or May 6 luncheon, call 281-257-4431 or info@springkleinchamber.org.

4/11/08 – Constable Ron Hickman to Speak at Inaugural Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce Meeting

2008-04-16T12:45:00.000-07:00

The Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce (SKCC) announced today that Constable Ron Hickman of Harris County Precinct Four will speak at the Chamber’s first luncheon to be held on May 6, 2008 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Sizzler Restaurant at 6062 FM 2920 in Spring. Updates to the meeting agenda will be posted on the organization’s website blog http://springklein.wordpress.com. Mission statement and membership information can be found at www.springkleinchamber.org

For further details, please contact Candace Runaas, Steering Committee Co-Chair, at 281-257-4431 or info@springkleinchamber.com.

Calling All Musical Artists! Houston Citywide Talent Search on April 19th

2008-03-07T07:53:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Candace Runaas
Runaas Resources Public Relations
281-257-4431
info@runaasresources.com

Citywide Talent Search Auditions
Taking Place in Northwest Houston on April 19, 2008

“Reach for the Sky” Talent Search Final Performances
at the Hilton Garden Inn on April 20, 2008

HOUSTON, March 3, 2008 – Only positive musical artists need apply. Keith A. Rowel, founder and CEO of Space City Institute of Houston, Inc., announced today their organization is hosting a citywide talent search “American Idol” style, entitled “Reach for the Sky” with auditions on April 19 and final performances on April 20 at the Hilton Garden Inn in northwest Houston.
The talent search is open to all solo artists, duos, trios, and bands. The auditions will be held on Saturday, April 19th, beginning at 8:00 a.m, at the Hilton Garden Inn, located at 7979 Willow Chase Boulevard. A variety of music genres are encouraged, including Hip Hop, R&B, Alternative Mix, Contemporary Gospel and Alternative artists and bands.
The audition entry fee is $35 per contestant, per category, with proceeds from the “Reach for the Sky” talent search event to benefit the programs of Space City Institute of Houston (SCIH), a non-profit organization that educates both youth and adults about the business of music and media, including core course subjects such as Entertainment Management, Entertainment Law, Artist Development, Creative Journalism and Sound Engineering.
“We are looking for developing artists, not only to promote but to also educate,” says Rowel, a music professional who traveled during the 80’s with Top 40 group, Starpoint, as well as being instrumental in the early career of Toni Braxton. He adds, “I’m doing this because there is a huge gap between people who are aspiring to be in the music industry and their actual understanding of the business as it relates to music and media.”
Music and media industry professionals will judge the performances. Winners will be eligible for cash prizes and recording studio time.
SCIH is home to innovative programs such as the International College Arts Network (iCAN), a curriculum based program for high school and college students, and the Restore and Save the Music Campaign (RSMC), which encourages artists and industry professionals to create and promote positive music.
Current sponsors include Hilton Garden Inn, 125th & Lennox Athletics, KRecords, and K20 Promotions. The event is still in need of financial and in-kind sponsors. For more information, visit The Music Space (www.the-musicspace.com), or call 713-459-2540.

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About Space City Institute of Houston
Established in 2003, Space City Institute of Houston, Inc. (SCIH) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to providing professional solutions to educate youth and adults about the Business of Music and Media. For more information about our organization and various programs, please visit www.scih.org or www.the-musicspace.com.

PRSA Houston February Luncheon Event

2008-01-29T13:30:00.001-08:00

February Luncheon: Chocolate Warfare in the New Media
Dan Keeney, APR owner
DPK Public Relations
Wed 6-Feb-08 11:30 AM to Wed 6-Feb-08 1:30 PM

Houston Artist, Texas Tim, Creates Anti-smoking Coloring Book

2008-01-23T18:52:00.001-08:00

Houston Artist Creates Anti-Smoking Coloring Book for Children

Houston, TX – January 7, 2008 – Freelance artist and poet, Tim Webb, a Spring resident, also known as Texas Tim, announced today that he has created an anti-smoking coloring book to reach young children with the message that cigarette smoking is harmful to their health through cartoon illustrations and poems.

Webb’s goal is to provide a means for parents to teach their children in the tender years to refrain from cigarette smoking or, as he puts it, “to dodge the smoking bullet.”

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), “cigarettes kill more Americans than alcohol, car accidents, suicide, AIDS, homicide, and illegal drugs combined.” The ACS strongly recommends that ‘parents start talking about tobacco use when their children are 5 or 6 years old and to continue through their high school years’ as a preventative measure.

One helpful tool that parents can use to introduce anti-smoking messages to their Pre-K and early elementary school age children is the new coloring book, “Smoke in Your Eye Makes You Cry,” written and illustrated by Texas Tim, which includes imaginative jokes, puns and play on word poetry with original caricature art that is sure to attract young children while teaching them that smoking cigarettes is a poor choice.

Using the term Sickerettes (c) to describe cigarettes, the coloring book features characters such as “Ollie Owl” who can fly for miles because smoking is not his style or “Freddy Frog” who tells his young audience that there is “no room for an ash tray on my lily pad.” The sensible frog adds, “A fisherman offered me a Sickerette (c) / Certainly as a joke/ What, me use tobacco/ You think I want to croak?”

Experts agree that parents are the primary factor in a child’s choice to abstain from smoking. Dr. Denton A. Cooley, M.D., founder, president and surgeon-in-chief of the Texas Heart Institute, prescribes in the foreword that “this book belongs in every child’s ‘Survival Kit.’ The knowledge will serve them from childhood through adulthood into their parenthood.”

“Texas Tim” Webb, (http://www.texastim.com/), freelance artist and poet, wants to work with schools, health organizations and interested private parties and businesses to spread the anti-smoking message in a delightful, easy to understand way to children. The coloring books are available for purchase for only $5.00 each at http://www.texastim.com/.

Contact:
Candace Runaas
Runaas Resources PR
281.257.4431

Announcing Customer Service That Really Sizzles!

2008-01-03T11:03:00.000-08:00

For Immediate Release:

First Sizzler Restaurant in U.S. To Offer Full Service Located in Houston

December 21, 2007 – Houston, Texas – Mr. Assad Shorrosh, President and CEO of Shorco Enterprises Inc., announced today that his Sizzler steakhouse franchise located in NW Houston will be the first and only Sizzler Restaurant to offer full service in the United States.

Sizzler, a trusted restaurant brand, re-introduced their “fast casual” restaurants, a form of dining where the customer orders their food prior to being seated, to the city of Houston this year with a grand opening at FM 2920 and Kuykendahl in July 2007. The initial area response was “tremendous. Our opening was well above expectations,” says Shorrosh.

In the coming months, customer feedback revealed that interest in a “full” service style of dining had more appeal than Sizzler’s traditional “pay-first” method.

Shorco took the initiative in addressing the concerns by creating a proposal to modify the receipt of customers, the cost structure, and the introduction of new menu items in order to accommodate the public.

In early November, Anthony Shorrosh, Shorco business partner and head of operations for the restaurant, began working directly with corporate executives in California to propose the full service concept for the Houston market. Coincidentally, Sizzler was planning to implement this service style in Las Vegas, but as a direct result of Shorco’s proposal, Houston will be the first and only full service Sizzler in the United States.

Initial customer reaction suggests that the changes are welcome. Todd Peterson, Vice President of New Business Development at Sizzler’s offices in California, says, “It is still early in the test, but all indications are that this is a positive move, particularly in the Texas market.”

Since 1958, Sizzler has served great steaks, seafood and salad while emphasizing value comfort and convenience . Sizzler now owns or franchises more than 400 midscale, casual dining restaurants worldwide, with locations in Puerto Rico, Asia and Australia. Sizzler continues to frequently update and expand their restaurants and marketing efforts by research-driven brand strategy.

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Candace Runaas
Runaas Resources Public Relations
281.257.4431
info@runaasresources.com

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T14:20:00.000-08:00

New Year's is a time of hope and optimism. I wish you much success in your business endeavors this year. God bless you all!

Candace Runaas
President
Runaas Resources Public Relations

THINKING OUTSIDE THE CUBE - PhillyBurbs.com

2007-12-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

By HANNAH SELIGSON
CTW Features

Peter Gibbons, the character in "Office Space" played by Ron Livingston, famously quipped "Human beings were not meant to sit in little cubicles staring at computer screens all day, filling out useless forms and listening to eight different bosses drone on about mission statements."
That was in 1999; and with self-employment on the upswing, Gibbons could be considered somewhat prophetic.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of self-employed people reached 12.2 million in 2003, an increase of 6 percent from 2000.
Katie Sturino, the president and founder of KAS public relations, New York, is part of this growing trend. "I wanted a flexible schedule," she says. "My time is very important to me. I liked the concept of being able to meet for a cappuccino at 3 p.m. on a Tuesday. I call it ‘alternative scheduling.'"
But as Sturino and the hoards of other people who have given up the regular routine will tell you, it's hardly a life of constant premium coffee breaks.
In fact, it's why Michelle Goodman wrote "The Anti 9-to-5 Guide: Practical Career Advice for Women who Think Outside the Cube" (Seal Press, 2007). Goodman, a seasoned freelancer who has dabbled in all things non-9-to-5, including temping, telecommuting, part-time work, flex-time work, and self-employment, is giving this new generation of corporate castaways a primer course on how to do it.
Goodman says the most important thing to remember is that becoming a cubicle expat is not an overnight process. "You have to set a plan in motion both about what are the professional and financial steps you need to take to make the leap from a steady paycheck to full-time freelancer."
It's leap that more women, particularly, are taking. Sturino says self-employment is a trend among her female friends and colleagues. "I am always hearing about young women leaving the traditional work force and seeing how far they can go on their own." And statistics certainly corroborate what Sturino is observing in her peer group of late twentysomething women.
In February 2006, the U.S. Census Bureaus reported that the number of women-owned businesses grew at twice the national rate for all private companies from 1997 to 2002.
But how do you know if it's time to flee the cube and join this growing demographic. Goodman says the telltale sign is when you can't devote the proper amount of time to your 9-to-5 job. "When your side gig starts taking up 20 hours a week or more, it's time to re-think your employment situation."
While self-employment can be rife with benefits - 3 p.m. cappuccinos, working in your sweatpants, no office politics - it also can be riddled with stress.
Sturino says that while the questions she most often fields is if it is hard to resist going shopping all day, sleeping late, or turning on the TV to catch the afternoon soaps, her day-to-day couldn't be farther from those activities.
"The stress and pressure of knowing you are responsible for your own business, that it all comes down to you, is enormous. I have to worry about things that my friends at big companies don't have to, such as inconsistent income, self-employment taxes, insurance for employees, and recruiting clients."
Which is probably why Goodman says one of the most salient takeaways from her book is to undo the perception that once you work outside the cube your life is going to be a constant 75-degree summer day. "But what I did find was that even with all the stress that comes with working for yourself, people said the bad days outside the cube are not as bad as the bad days in a cube."
So if you are thinking of making a go of it on your own, Goodman gives her advice for how to start that bakery, online marketing firm or nonprofit.
Have fallback skills - Goodman says that this is what keeps most freelancers fed and clothed. You need to have bread-and-butter skills that can keep you afloat, because sometimes passion work doesn't always pay as well right away. One woman Goodman interviewed launched a dog-walking service and, at first, offered overnight pet-sitting as her bread-and-butter product until she could get the dog-walking business to fully pay her bills.
Work on getting out of the cube while you are in the cube. It's unrealistic to expect that you can just walk away from office life into a full-fledged, on-your-own career. Goodman advises setting up meetings with potential clients, financial advisers and other freelancers months before you decide to roll out of bed into your office for the first time.
Create a virtual water cooler - Goodman warns that working alone can be isolating, so build coffee dates and other social events into your schedule.
Be a planner - While you might think that those who work from home are huge risk takers, Goodman found that people who successfully work for themselves are very methodical and organized. "They list their goals and write both formal and informal business plans."
And be flexible - Goodman found that the people who thrive outside the cube are able to roll with the punches and quickly adapt. You can't have your world crumble down if a client changes a deadline on you.
Hannah Seligson is a writer based in New York and the author of "New Girl on the Job: Advice from the Trenches" (Citadel Press, 2007).
December 18, 2007 8:36 AM

Upcoming Houston Event - Business

2007-11-28T07:01:00.000-08:00

Upcoming Houston Event - Business

SCORE is a volunteer association and a partner of the US Small Business Association. They are recognized as a great resource for entrepreneurs and I highly recommend meeting with one of their counselors for ideas on how to create a business plan, network or manage your business. If you are able to make this event, it will benefit your business. Enjoy.

Starting and Running Your Own Business, Saturday, Dec. 8, 8;30 a.m. - 4 p.m., University of Houston Hilton Hotel Conference Center, 4800 Calhoun. Hosted by SCORE: Counselors to America's Small Business. Cost: $35. Information: 713-773-6565 or http://www.scorehouston.org/

Opportunity Knocks...Often

2007-11-23T11:40:00.000-08:00

Third installment of SWOT - Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats

Opportunity is behind every door. Each holiday provides a good chance to promote your company or organization. Every newsworthy event can be a breaking story for the services you provide.

For example, accountants thrive during tax season, which is an ideal time for marketing their services.

But what about May?

When students are graduating from high school and college, many parents and young adults are looking at how that change will affect their tax standing. This could be an opportune time to offer suggestions to parents of the 18 to 24 age group. Your company could offer sound advice on how to teach and guide young adults to make wise financial choices. A well-written article to a few local publications offers a valuable community service by assisting parents in preparing their graduates for the "real world."

Get started today. Peruse your neighborhood newsletter, the local papers and headline news. Use this information to "ride the wave" of current events and creatively tie this into promoting your business. Prepare a press release (no more than 2 pages long with standard font) and send your information to the media. Your local reporter is always looking for a great story to share with readers. Understand that all reporters receive several press releases a day and not all stories will make it to print. That's okay. Keep trying and sooner or later, the doors of opportunity will open wide for you. Just step inside.

Nutrition Ally Speaking

2007-11-20T15:08:00.000-08:00

Nutrition is our friend and that is why I refer to myself as a Nutrition Ally. Nutrition-ally speaking. I love eating foods that are good for me and it's a blessing to share that information with others. My articles have been printed in several local publications and I get asked all the time about how I lost weight, lowered my blood pressure (allowing me to get off the medication) or just plain questions about how to change a recipe to make it more nutritious and less junky.

For instance, I just wanted to make something tasty for lunch this afternoon, so I scanned my pantry goods and the fridge/freezer and came up with the following:

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup wheat couscous

1 lb. ground turkey (lean)

1/4 onion (chopped)

4 cloves of garlic, minced

6 cherry tomatoes, each sliced into halves or quarters

1 teaspoon each Oregano, basil, thyme

black pepper and liquid aminos to taste

1. Boil water in small saucepan. Once water comes to a boil, add couscous and remove from burner immediately. Let sit for 5 minutes.

2. While couscous is sitting, in a frying pan, sautee the onion until almost clear. Add ground turkey and cook until brown. Once turkey is cooked, add garlic, oregano, basil and thyme. Sautee for about 1-2 minutes.

3. Scoop out desired portion of couscous to plate. Mix in a portion of turkey meat mixture. Top with cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with black pepper to taste. Bragg's Liquid Aminos is very much like soy sauce, but lower in sodium and, I believe, better for you.

You can add anything to this recipe that you like... I have added cooked green beans, fresh spinach leaves, shredded carrots... it is basically a clean out your fridge dish that can be good for you and nutrient packed. If you choose other foods not mentioned here, I would love to know about it.

Logan, the Sky Angel Cowboy - Nov. 11, 2007

2007-11-15T12:33:00.000-08:00

Logan, the Sky Angel Cowboy November 11th, 2007
We have had a lot of requests to replay the phone call that Pastor Mike played during our church service on Sunday, Nov. 11th, 2007.(Happy Are The Merciful - Listen now - 22.0 MB MP3)To the right you'll find the video clip that was created just for you. We've placed the video on YouTube so that you can watch it and share with family and friends. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCdZwitrNoY

Logan is a 13 year-old boy who lives on a ranch in a very small town in Nebraska. Logan listens to Christian Radio station 89.3FM KSBJ which broadcasts from Houston, TX. Logan called the radio station distraught because he had to take down a calf . His words have wisdom beyond his years. Since airing the audio of the phone call and now the making of the video clip, it has taken on a life of its own. People are forwarding it all over the world. We encourage you to share the love of Christ with anyone you can.

(**Sky Angel is a family safe broadcasting service that is offered on satellite. KSBJ is a local Houston Christian music radio station. Video clip produced with love by Frank Lozano.)

Let the Weak say I am Strong

2007-11-01T07:47:00.000-07:00

This is the second installment of SWOT - (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats). Although it may seem a bit scary, you need to take a good hard look at what might be perceived as your weakness. Once you decide what that is, then you need to change your perception from the glass being half empty to an almost full glass of mimosa. (Mmmmm.)

Problem: My business is too small.
Be honest. If you have little to no staff - look at the advantages. This is a great plus. Let your customer(s) know that you are able to keep your prices low because you don't have the overhead of larger companies. Many businesses choose to remain small simply to provide competitive pricing.

Problem: We can't afford the latest technology yet.
Be selective. Only choose jobs that you know you can handle. Outsource, if necessary. This allows you to offer exceptional customer service since you can be specific to your clients' needs.

Problem: My business is just starting out.
Be competitive. If you are a new company, offer incentives such as "Buy one, get one free" or "50% off initial visit." Then, wow your customers once they arrive.

Problem: My location makes it difficult for others to get to me.
Be creative. If you are working out of your home or located in an area of town that may not be convenient or considered safe, offer to provide delivery options for products or meet clients for coffee at a cafe near them for meetings (pastries are on you, of course).

Problem: I am gifted when it comes to crafts, but I can't do numbers.
Be smart. Face it. If you are organizationally-challenged or the thought of handling purchase orders and invoices causes you to break out in a sweat, then get expert help. Whether you choose to purchase a software program, hire an actual person to provide a service, or take a class at your local community college, there are plenty of resources out there to handle these simple tasks and give you peace of mind.

Ultimately, it is imperative that you look at what challenges your unique business must overcome to succeed. Even if you have to ask an objective party, including your own customers. Creating a short survey on what you can do to improve their experience with you is all that may be necessary.

Take the time to evaluate yourself, your product or service and you will see that your weakness might just be what causes your business to thrive.

Flex Your Muscle

2007-10-23T11:05:00.000-07:00

READY to learn something new? Or perhaps you're here to review what you already know? In either case, there is a lot of ground to cover when one decides to become an entrepreneur. An exciting venture, to be certain, with new territory to explore. I want to make that journey a bit easier on you. For the next few weeks, we will discover the uniqueness of you and your business, so that you can evaluate how to proceed in promotions and marketing. This first installment will be based on the first letter in the acronym SWOT (Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, Threats). Evaluating your SWOT, especially your strengths, will help you to determine how to position yourself strategically amongst your competition and help to give you an edge.

STRENGTH
The American Heritage Dictionary defines 'strength' as the 'capacity or potential for effective action.' Your business has something that separates it from all other companies that are currently in the marketplace - your capacity or potential to excel.

If launching a pet-related business, such as a dog grooming service, what makes you stand out? Do you offer something that other dog groomers would be envious to have? It could be the location of your business or simply that you offer great service at affordable prices. Offering savings is a tried and true favorite and can easily assist you in getting your business noticed.

OOMPH!
The most important thing is to ask yourself: What do I got that they don't got? (yes, that's how I meant to write it - got your attention, didn't I?) But seriously, you need to discover what makes you a powerful force and then flex your muscle. Internet research is a valuable tool in looking at companies that are similar to yours and making a comparison of their attributes and advantages to identify your strengths. Another option is to ask a trusted family member, mentor or a marketing professional who can evaluate your business and give you good objective advice.

Feel free to flex your muscle here and let others know what makes your business strong. What do you provide your customers or clients that makes them come back for more? Get comfortable promoting yourself, you just might find your next customer here.