This Blog is a little more personal then the normal Business/ Tax Strategy we normally Blog about...

Introduction:
As September comes to a close, it's crucial to shed light on a topic of immense importance: Ovarian Cancer. Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month aims to educate and empower individuals about the signs and symptoms of this silent but potentially deadly disease. Early detection is key to improving survival rates and quality of life for those affected. In this blog, we'll delve into the warning signs of ovarian cancer, equipping you with knowledge that could potentially save lives.

1. Persistent Abdominal or Pelvic Pain:
   One of the early warning signs of ovarian cancer is persistent discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis. This pain may be ongoing and not related to menstruation, digestive issues, or physical activity.

2. Bloating or Feeling of Fullness:
   Women with ovarian cancer often experience persistent bloating or a sensation of fullness even after eating small amounts. This can be accompanied by a visible increase in abdominal size.

3. Difficulty Eating or Feeling Satiated Quickly:
   Another sign to be aware of is a change in eating habits. Women may find it challenging to consume their usual amounts of food, feeling full quickly, or having difficulty finishing a meal.

4. Frequent Urination:
   If you notice an increase in the frequency of urination, particularly if it's accompanied by other symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. Ovarian cancer can exert pressure on the bladder, causing these changes.

5. Changes in Bowel Habits:
   Persistent changes in bowel movements, such as constipation, diarrhea, or changes in stool consistency, could indicate a potential issue in the pelvic region, including the ovaries.

6. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain:
   Sudden and unexplained weight loss or gain without changes in diet or exercise should be investigated. This could be a symptom of ovarian cancer or other underlying health issues.

7. Fatigue:
   Chronic fatigue that doesn't improve with rest can be an early warning sign of ovarian cancer. Listen to your body and seek medical advice if you experience persistent exhaustion.

8. Back Pain:
   Constant lower back pain, unrelated to injuries or muscle strain, can sometimes be linked to ovarian cancer, especially if accompanied by other signs on this list.

9. Changes in Menstrual Cycle:
   Any significant changes in menstrual patterns, such as irregular periods, heavier or lighter bleeding than usual, or post-menopausal bleeding, should not be ignored.

10. Pain During Intercourse:
    Ovarian cancer can cause discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse. If this is a new or persistent issue, consult a healthcare provider.

Conclusion:
Ovarian cancer often remains undetected until it reaches an advanced stage, underscoring the critical importance of recognizing warning signs early on. By familiarizing yourself with these signs and symptoms, you can take proactive steps towards early detection, potentially saving lives and spreading awareness beyond Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize your health.

Introduction:
In life, some threads stand out, weaving stories of passion, dedication, and camaraderie. For me, starting and nurturing a group called Engaging Speakers has been one such defining thread. Over two decades, this endeavor has evolved from a mere idea to a community of extraordinary individuals, all bound by the shared passion for public speaking and the transformative power of words.
 
In the summer of 2003, Gail Brown and I embarked on a journey to create a space where speakers, aspiring and seasoned alike, could come together, learn, grow, and inspire one another. Little did I know then that this journey would unfold into a transformative odyssey, touching the lives of countless individuals.
 
The Genesis of Engaging Speakers
Two decades ago, the seed of Engaging Speakers was sown from a desire to foster a supportive community for individuals enthusiastic about the art of public speaking. The initial vision was to create a space where people could not only refine their speaking skills but also find their authentic voice, connect with a network of like-minded individuals, and explore speaking engagements.
 
Cultivating Growth and Impact
The growth of Engaging Speakers over the years has been nothing short of phenomenal. What began as a small gathering of passionate speakers has blossomed into a thriving community of diverse voices, collectively making a significant impact in various spheres of life. The engagement and dedication of the members have been instrumental in turning this vision into a reality.
However, like any journey, the path to growth was not always smooth. Over the years, our community experienced its fair share of ups and downs, reflecting the ebb and flow of life and the world of professional speaking. But through it all, we persevered, adapting to changing landscapes and emerging stronger as a result.
 
A Collection of Great People and Amazing Speakers
The heart and soul of Engaging Speakers lie in its people—the members, each bringing their unique stories, experiences, and expertise to the table. Our community is vibrant, interwoven with a multitude of colors and patterns, united by the common goal of sharing knowledge, empowering others, and creating positive change.
 
The speakers who have graced our platform over the years have been the lifeblood of our community. Their inspirational talks, insightful guidance, and unwavering commitment to making a difference have left an indelible mark on all of us. Beyond sharing their wisdom, these speakers have also been invaluable connections for networking and securing speaking engagements, further propelling the growth of our community.
 
The Heartfelt Gratitude
As I reflect on the past 20 years, my heart swells with gratitude. Engaging Speakers has been a labor of love, fueled by the dedication of all involved. The joy of witnessing members' growth, the pride in their accomplishments, and the camaraderie that has been fostered—it's all beyond words.
 
Conclusion
In life, Engaging Speakers stands as a vibrant, enduring thread, representing growth, transformation, and the immense power of human connection. This journey has been a testament to the impact that a community of passionate individuals can have when united by a shared purpose. Here's to the next 20 years, where we continue to inspire, empower, make a difference, and forge new speaking engagements, one engaging speech at a time.
 
Come help us Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Engaging Speakers at lunch on October 20th in Elk Grove
www.engagingspeakers.com/20th

Tax planning for business owners in 2023 should be a year-round effort, but here are some key tax moves to consider early in the year to help reduce your tax liability and optimize your financial situation:

1. Review Your Business Structure: Assess whether your current business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, S corporation, C corporation) is still the most tax-efficient option for your business. Changing your structure can have significant tax implications, so consult with a tax professional before making any changes.

2. Maximize Deductions: Identify all available deductions and credits that can help reduce your taxable income. Common deductions include business expenses, home office deductions, and retirement plan contributions.

3. Consider Qualified Business Income Deduction (QBI): If you're eligible for the QBI deduction (also known as Section 199A deduction), ensure that you're optimizing it. This deduction can be significant for pass-through entities like S corporations, partnerships, and sole proprietorships.

4. Evaluate Employee Benefits: Review your employee benefits packages, such as health insurance plans, retirement plans (e.g., 401(k)s), and other fringe benefits. Ensure they are tax-efficient and meet your employees' needs.

5. Plan for Capital Expenditures: Take advantage of the Section 179 deduction and bonus depreciation rules to write off the cost of qualified capital assets in the year of purchase, rather than spreading the deduction over several years.

6. Charitable Contributions: If your business makes charitable contributions, ensure that you're documenting them correctly and taking advantage of any available deductions. Consider contributing appreciated assets for potential tax benefits.

7. Inventory Management: Review your inventory management practices to minimize carrying costs. Methods like LIFO (Last-In-First-Out) or FIFO (First-In-First-Out) can impact your tax liability.

8. Review Your Debt Structure: Evaluate your business debt and consider refinancing or restructuring if it makes financial sense. The interest on business loans is often deductible.

9. Tax Withholding and Estimated Payments: Ensure that your business is withholding the correct amount of taxes for employees and making estimated tax payments on time. Underpayment can result in penalties and interest charges.

10. Estate Planning: If you have a succession plan or intend to pass your business to heirs, consider the tax implications and develop a strategy that minimizes estate taxes.

11. State and Local Taxes: Be aware of your state and local tax obligations, including income, sales, and property taxes. State tax laws can vary significantly and impact your overall tax liability.

12. Hire a Tax Professional: Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Consider working with a tax professional or accountant who specializes in small business taxation to ensure you're taking full advantage of available deductions and credits while staying compliant with tax regulations.

Remember that tax planning should be tailored to your specific business situation and goals. It's essential to consult with a tax professional who can provide personalized advice based on your circumstances. Additionally, staying informed about tax law changes and deadlines throughout the year is crucial for effective tax planning.

This was inspired from an article in the Daily Herald Business section on Sunday September 3, 2023
Never too early: Tax moves every business owner should consider right now (dailyherald.com)