Chesterfield Women's Journal First Quarter 2015 by Arnaldo DePaula

The Chesterfield MC Women’s Journal

First Quarter 2015

In This Issue

; Helping Kids See Well in School ; DPNS…New Therapy, New Hope For Patients ; Women & Alzheimer’s ; Cork Myth

educate. enrich. empower.

A Free Quarterly Resource for the Women of Chesterfield County

Dear Readers

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Out with the old, and in with the new. We wish our readers the very best in this New Year. This past year brought about some challenges, lessons, and new opportunities for growth at the Chesterfield Women’s Journal. As we move forward, we are excited about all that is to come. We hope the editorials from our contributors will not only be educational, but enriching and empowering for our readers. In this edition, Westport Rehabilitation and Nursing Center enlightens our readers on “DPNS-New Therapy, New Hope for Patients” for those dealing with swallowing disorders. There is hope for the one in seventeen people dealing with this medical condition. Westport’s article will expose the challenges faced, and the new and innovative therapies that encourage healing.

Christie L. Cook

The Chesterfield

Women’s Journal

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MC Media Inc.

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Publisher:

Christie L. Cook chesterfieldwoman@gmail.com

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We’ve coined 2015 as the Year of Hope, but we want to empower our readers as well. Domestic violence is a very sensitive topic that some would rather not converse about, but do you know of seriousness of this issue in Chesterfield? You’ll learn more in YWCA’s “Empowering Children Who Witness Violence” article. Many are affected by domestic violence including children living with violence at home. Education and knowledge about this issue may be informational to you, but it could be used to save or change someone’s life. Also, on the topic of empowerment, I’m excited to announce the 9th Annual Higher Ground Women’s Leadership Conference. This conference is a great place to kick off the year. This years’ selection of successful women will show you how to ensure the emergence of your leadership qualities. Whether it’s at home, at work, or in your community, each session is packed with powerful techniques that add value to your life. They will help you connect to who’s important…you! You’ll find more information on the conference in this edition. I’ll be there along with other ladies from the Women’s Journal. If you recognize any one of us, please come up and say, “Hello”. Finally, if there is an article that intrigues you, please don’t hesitate to call the contributor to see how they can be of service to you. They welcome your calls and feedback! A special thank you to all our wonderful contributors for their educational editorials and to all our readers. Thank you for allowing us to serve you.

- Christie L. Cook, Publisher

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The Women’s Journal is published quarterly and is available free of charge, by subscription, at display stands in approved private and public establishments and authorized distributors only. Trademark and U.S. Copyright laws protect The Women’s Journal. No part of this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Women’s Journal is not responsible for any editorial comment (other than its own), typographical errors from advertisements submitted as camera ready or any reproductions of advertisements submitted as camera ready. If an advertisement does not meet our standards of acceptance, we may revise or cancel it at any time, whether or not it has been already acknowledged and/ or previously published. The advertiser assumes sole responsibility for all statements contained in submitted copy and will protect and indemnify The Women’s Journal, its owners, publishers, and employees, against any and all liability loss or expense arising out of claims for liable, unfair trade names, patents copyrights and propriety rights, and all violations of the right of privacy or other violations resulting from the publication by this newspaper of its advertising copy. Publisher shall be under no liability for failure, for any reason, to insert an advertisement. Publisher shall not be liable by reason of error, omission and/or failure to insert any part of an advertisement. Publisher will not be liable for delay or failure in performance in publication and/or distribution if all or any portion of an issue is delayed or suspended for any reason. The publisher will exercise reasonable judgement in these instances and will make adjustments for the advertiser where and when appropriate. The Women’s Journal assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or reproductions made by advertisers. This newspaper will be published by the 15th of the first month in each quarter.

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First Qu arter 201 5

In This

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; Helpin g Kids See Well in Sch ; DPNS… ool New The rapy, New ; Wome Hope For n & Alzhei Patients mer’s ; Cork My th

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On The Cover...

Dr. Grace E. Harris was photographed by Heather House Studios on location at Willow Oaks Country Club.

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Donna S. Buchanan

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Beth Stowe

Bridal

Intention Into Action............................16 Bypassing The Corporate Ladder.........32

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Heart Smart For Her..............................6 Helping Kids See Well in School............7 M M Wrinkles!.................................................8 M Fashion Fashion Beauty Beauty Publisher’s Page CCC Breast Cancer Facts.................................9

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Women & Alzheimer’s...........................10 DPNS......................................................11

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Writing A Book?....................................12 Cancer Survivor Benefits......................13 M M Become A Home Community Investor..........14 CC Home Garden Garden

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The Grips Of Fear..................................20 M M Business Financial C 5 Health Improvements.........................21 Business Financial C M Balsamic Vinegars.................................22 Business Financial C Tackling Diabetes..................................23 Energy Drinks........................................24

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We hope you love our magazine asCommunity much as weEducation do. MC MC Community Education M Please feel free to reach out to usCommunity and tell usEducation what C you think? what would you like to see more of in the M future? WhatProfile did youM find to be the most interesting People C People Profile C M M People Profile C People Profile C and informative? Drop us a quick email: M People C chesterfieldwoman@gmail.com We are here for Profile you! M M Table Table Contents Contents CC

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Women ProfileM IN

Ana Ines King Ana Ines King holds an unwavering commitment to the mission of the Latin Ballet of Virginia, of which she is owner and artistic director. Through the Latin Ballet, King preserves and shares Hispanic culture through dance education and performance. She has increased accessibility to the arts for low-income families and has helped to build strong and diverse communities through the arts. King has won numerous awards in her field including the 2014 Theresa Pollak Prize for Excellence in the Arts; AT&T & CNNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hispanic Woman of the Year in 2002 for service to the community; and Best Artists in Residency for Multicultural programs by the North Carolina Arts Council. She collaborates with other arts organizations including the Richmond Symphony and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, in addition to working with public schools and universities to support arts educational programming and events. King empowers young girls and women from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds by instilling in them confidence and poise and an appreciation for other cultures.

Kathy Glazer Kathy Glazer is the President of the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation (VECF) which forges public and private partnerships that build capacity for increasing school readiness at the state and local levels. . She has contributed her time and talent to advance school readiness through literacy and promoting regional collaboration. The results-oriented partnerships that she has helped forge have benefited childhood stakeholders across the state. She is considered the architect of Virginiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nationally recognized school readiness system and her expertise and commitment to a public-private model is highly valued and respected by both elected officials and the business leaders alike. She serves on the Advisory Board of the Literacy Institute at VCU, on the Executive Council of Bridging RVA, an organization dedication to the alignment of education, business, government and civic stakeholders in the Richmond region to improve college and career readiness.

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Dr. Grace E. Harris Grace E. Harris, Ph.D., is a distinguished professor in the Center for Public Policy at Virginia Commonwealth University and provides direction and oversight for The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute. The VCU Board of Visitors established the leadership institute in May 1999 to honor her 32 years of exemplary service to the university and her retirement as provost and vice president of academic affairs. The Institute continues Dr. Harris’ legacy and spirit of collaboration, equity and partnership modeled throughout her service to the university. Prior to becoming provost in January 1993, Harris held the position of vice provost for continuing studies and public service. On two occasions — in 1995 and 1998 — she served as acting president of VCU. Harris joined the university in 1967 and held a variety of faculty and administrative posts, including dean of the School of Social Work from 1982 to 1990. She had formerly been employed as a social worker, supervisor and executive director in public and nonprofit social service agencies in Hampton and Richmond, Va. Harris received her Bachelor of Science degree in sociology from Hampton Institute, now Hampton University, graduating with highest honors. Originally denied admission to Richmond Professional Institute (RPI) of the College of William and Mary (now VCU) in 1954 because of her race, Harris attended Boston University in 1954-55. She would later return and receive her Master of Social Work from RPI in 1960. She received Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in sociology from the University of Virginia in 1974 and 1975, respectively. Active in community organizations in the Richmond area, Harris has served on numerous boards, task forces and commissions. She also served on the advisory board of the Virginia Health Care Foundation and the Virginia Commission on Higher Education Appointments, of which she has been a member since its establishment by former Gov. Mark Warner in 2002. She also was vice chair of Warner’s transition team — Put Virginia First. Harris has received many awards and honors for her professional and community contributions, including VCU’s Presidential Medallion Award. She was cited for her leadership in establishing the first-ever, long-range strategic plan for VCU. The university also awarded her with the Presidential Award for Community Multicultural Enrichment and the Riese-Mellon Award. Harris has received honorary degrees from the University of Richmond and Virginia Union University and was recognized as Educator of the Year by the Richmond Chapter of the National Coalition of Black Women. In honor of Dr. Harris’ longstanding leadership, service, and contributions to Virginia Commonwealth University, a campus building, Grace E. Harris Hall, was dedicated in her honor in 2007. The Virginia General Assembly passed House Joint Resolution No. 513 in 2012, Commending Grace Edmondson Harris. She received the John Jasper Trail Blazer Award in 2014. Harris was also inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa, a National Leadership Honor Society in 2014, joining other leadership luminaries including Margaret Thatcher, Jimmy Carter, Shirley Chisholm, George H.W. Bush, Hillary Rodham Clinton and Tim Kaine.

Mary E. Langer Mary E. Langer has been the Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney since 2006 and has dedicated her 25-year professional career to protect community members in need, particularly children and families. As the lead prosecutor in most of the serious child physical and sexual abuse cases in Richmond, Langer is a strong leader and advocate to help the community find the best approach to assisting these victims and preventing future abuse. She has been recognized by her peers for her distinguished service with the 2009 Virginia S. Duvall Award in honor of her leaderships as a JDR prosecutor, and as the 2013 Woman of Achievement by the Metropolitan Richmond Women’s Bar Association. Ms. Langer gives tirelessly for many of the causes in which she believes and serves on several community boards. She has volunteered for the VA Special Olympics and Freedom House, ridden her bike hundreds of miles to raise money for cancer and multiple sclerosis research and for the Habitat for Humanity. She currently serves on the VBA Commission on the Needs of Children.

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February is Heart Disease Month February is Heart Disease Month

Heart Smart For Her Heart Smart For Her

By Dorri C. Scott, MSWMSW By Dorri C. Scott,

any believe the leading cause cause of death amongamong women any believe the leading of death women is cancer. If that is what you think, you are NOT is cancer. If that is what you think, you arealone. NOT alone. Unfortunately, you are notare correct. The leading cause cause of Unfortunately, you not correct. The leading of eath death amongamong women is HEART DISEASE. Yes, Heart disease. women is HEART DISEASE. Yes, Heart disease. ccording to thetoAmerican Heart Heart Association heart heart disease is According the American Association disease is sponsible for one in every three women’s deaths per year. Worse responsible for one in every three women’s deaths per year. Worse t, many still believe that heart is a man’s disease. It is It is yet, many still believe that disease heart disease is a man’s disease. OT. InNOT. factIn more and more women are dying from heart disease National fact more and more women are dying from heart diseaseCelebrate Celebrate National pidlyrapidly since 1984. since 1984. Wear RedRed DayDay withwith Wear o, youSo, ask…What should women do to prevent heart disease? you ask…What should women do to prevent heart disease?

National Wear RedRed Day National Wear Day February 6, 2014 February 6, 2014

Take 1.Responsibility. Take Responsibility. omen must for herfor personal healthhealth and well fightfight women’s #1 killer - Heart Disease Women take mustresponsibility take responsibility her personal and wellto help to help women’s #1 killer - Heart Disease eing.being. Generally the care giver of her family, women are good Generally the care giver of her family, women are good helping and encouraging othersothers – family, friendsfriends but not at helping and encouraging – family, but not 4. Keep the Pressure DOWN. ligent when when it comes to herto self. Every Every woman’s fist defense diligent it comes her self. woman’s fist defense 4. Keep the Pressure DOWN. Hypertension also known as high blood pressure is often the nd motto going going forward must be TAKE CARE CARE OF MEOF – FIRST. and motto forward must be TAKE ME – FIRST. Hypertension also known as high blood pressure is often the “silent killer.” It often goes without symptoms. Checking with your he best againstagainst heart heart disease is to is understand The prevention best prevention disease to understand “silent killer.” It often goes without symptoms. Checking with your Doctor or health provider is a must on a regular basis – especially e risks options if heart disease and stroke the and risks treatment and treatment options if heart disease and stroke Doctor or health provider is a must on a regular basis – especially is a family historyhistory of high pressure. Heredity and and storyhistory are apparent. Ask your provider question. R if Rthere if there is a family of blood high blood pressure. Heredity are apparent. Ask health your health provider question. increasing age raises the risk. eforeBefore visitingvisiting the doctor’s office office and be prepared with pen the doctor’s and be prepared with pen increasing age raises the risk. nd pencil to asktoquestions and write the answers down.down. and pencil ask questions and write the answers 5. The Number Counts - Monitor Cholesterol hare Share your family’s historyhistory with your provider so that your family’s with health your health provider so that 5. The Number Counts - Monitor Cholesterol Abnormal or high lipids lipids (fats) (fats) are a are major contributor e information will become a parta ofpart theofpermanent healthhealth Abnormal or blood high blood a major contributor the information will become the permanent to cardiovascular disease. Blood lipids include the LDL (bad cordrecord and become familiar with your family’s health history to cardiovascular disease. Blood lipids include the LDL (bad and become familiar with your family’s health history cholesterol), HDL and triglycerides. The lower one’s LDL and the especially if heart disease and stroke are a part your – especially if heart disease and stroke are aofpart ofDNA. your DNA. cholesterol), HDL and triglycerides. The lower one’s LDL and the higherhigher HDL, the better. If one Ifis one at risk, with your HDL, the better. is atcheck risk, check withPhysician. your Physician. Diet may or may not help. Medication may be the best prevention. Diet may or may not help. Medication may be the best prevention.

And… And…  Limit those calories  Limit those calories  Drink less caffeine  Drink less caffeine  Reduce Stress withwith  Reduce Stress  A walkwalk dailydaily brisk A brisk  Meditation  Meditation  Attend religious services  Attend religious services Know YOUR RisksAt EVERY Age 2. Know YOUR Risks- At EVERY Age  Regular Exercise  Regular Exercise he older one isone the isgreater the risk for cardiovascular The older the greater thefactors risk factors for cardiovascular Laughter  Laughter sease. Be diligent and focused. Recognize and honor your genetic disease. Be diligent and focused. Recognize and honor your genetic  Adequate sleepsleep ake-up. If a family member has a has history of cardiovascular,  Adequate make-up. If a family member a history of cardiovascular, . parents, siblings, grandparent - your- risk much greater. i.e. parents, siblings, grandparent youris risk is much greater. Volunteer  Volunteer  Avoid people and and places Avoid people placeswhowho DO 3. NOT Not Now, EVER! DOSMOKE, NOT SMOKE, Not Not Now, Not EVER! make you angry and and / or anxious he evidence is overwhelming. Cigarette smoking and second make you angry / or anxious The evidence is overwhelming. Cigarette smoking and second and exposure to smoking increases the risks of heart disease, hand exposure to smoking increases the risks of heart disease, Quiet timetime dailydaily  Quiet ng cancer and stroke. lung cancer and stroke.

Be informed about new new medications, scientific breakthroughs and techniques to help with with optimum Be informed about medications, scientific breakthroughs and techniques to help optimum health. Ultimately, stay positiveyour heart depends on it! health. Ultimately, stay positiveyour heart depends on it! www.RVAWomensJournal.com

Helping Kids See Well in School

One in four school-age children has a vision problem significant enough to impact his or her ability to learn. This means that about 25% of our students need glasses or help to allow them to see well in school. Put in perspective, along with the fact that about 80% of what a child learns in a typical classroom setting is learned through their vision, this means that good vision is extremely important to a child’s success in school. In fact, according to the Essilor Foundation, students with a visual acuity of less than 20/20 are three times more likely to fail a grade in school. At Conexus, our mission is to eliminate undetected and untreated vision problems as barriers to success, enabling all children to reach their fullest potential. Our goal, simply, is to make sure that children have the benefits of their good vision so that they can be successful in school, and in life. We accomplish this through several programs. One approach is simply encouraging everyone to understand and realize that healthy vision and good vision care are an important part of the continuum of overall health. Regular eye care is important for everyone from young children through aging seniors, even if they don’t think that they have problems seeing. Eye health, as well as vision, should be monitored. Many eye diseases and vision problems are progressive and are unnoticeable at first, but waiting until vision has noticeably been compromised often means that the vision that has been lost can’t be restored. Early detection and treatment of certain vision problems can often slow or stop the progression of vision loss, so don’t wait until you notice vision loss to schedule an eye exam.

the trees, individual blades of grass, or the clear writing on their school papers and boards.

We help to identify these students through our comprehensive screening programs. Traditionally, our screening program has included national certification for school nurses and other community partners, as well as educational and follow-up materials and screening supplies. This program helps school nurses provide the state-mandated vision screenings effectively and efficiently, and provides resources like vouchers for free eye exams and glasses for students in need.

desks in their classrooms! Schools participating in VisioCheck benefit from the same educational and follow-up resources as our traditional screening partners.

always been focused on service delivery, and we’ve worked very hard to maintain and deliver our best-practice programs. This is a very important part of who we are.

Conexus is privately funded; generous donors, foundations, corporations, and civic organizations make it possible for us to deliver our programs at a significantly reduced cost, sometimes even at no cost, to the schools we serve.

Becoming Conexus will allow us to continue this hard work and focus our resources and services on the children we serve. This exciting move will allow us to further advance our mission of direct service, allowing for new opportunities to better serve children, families and communities who stand to benefit through our work. For more information about Conexus and our programs, please visit ConexusVision.org.

For 57 years, Conexus existed as the local affiliate of Prevent Blindness America. Formerly Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic, we have

Over the last several years, however, screening technology has evolved and allowed us to add a technologybased program, VisioCheck. These state-of-the-art screenings are provided in Richmond area preschools through W.H.E.E.L.S., our Kindergarten Readiness VisioCheck program, now in its fifth year. We have also expanded VisioCheck to serve Head Start and school-age children in public and private schools throughout the MidAtlantic. These screenings are noninvasive and use a digital screening device to screen a child, with no response needed from the student being screened, in about three to five seconds. This significantly reduces the interruption in valuable instructional time; often, the students are screened at their

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By Melissa Perry About Conexus Conexus is making some significant organizational changes that will help us to better serve the vision needs of kids in our community and beyond. For more than 57 years, you have known Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic as the local affiliate of Prevent Blindness America. We have always been focused on service delivery, and have worked to develop and deliver “best practice” programs. In order to continue delivering these services at the highest possible level, our organization is becoming Conexus. The leadership and staff remains the same, as do our programs, and we are looking forward to continuing to protect education through healthy vision for many years to come.

Fortunately, most of the vision problems encountered by our school-age children can be corrected with prescription eyeglasses. However, children usually can’t tell you when they aren’t seeing well; they most often don’t know that the way they are seeing the world isn’t the way they should be seeing it. With no frame of reference or different experiences to teach them otherwise, the blurry vision that is normal for a child with vision problems is all they know. In fact, children receiving glasses for the first time often comment that they had never really seen the leaves on

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Sculptra,® A Natural Collagen Stimulator!

As we age, our face gradually looses collagen and fat. This plays a crucial role in the development of wrinkles, sagging, “crepey” skin and causes sunken areas in the temples, cheeks and the chin. The solution has been the injection of dermal fillers such as Juvederm®, Restylane® or Radiesse®. These fillers are usually based on a key ingredient, Hyaluronic Acid (HA), which is directly injected into the problem areas to help plump them up. Sculptra®, however, is not only a filler per se; it works by stimulating the body to generate it’s own lost collagen. Dermal fillers yield immediate results. Sculptra® takes a few months after treatment before the skin looks and feels thicker’ the hollows begin to fill-out and the wrinkles begin to disappear. Most patients will need two or

three treatments with Sculptra® to stimulate new collagen sufficient to achieve the desired facial contouring. Your age and the amount of fat that you have lost in your face are some determining factors of the number of treatments and the amount of product that you will need. Which to use, Traditional Dermal Fillers or Sculptra®? Dermal fillers are preferable if only a small amount of filler is needed or if the effect is required immediately. Sculptra® will be more appropriate for the treatment of larger areas or for the rejuvenation of the whole face and if gradual results are preferred. Sculptra® is more costly than HAbased dermal fillers. Sculptra®’s effects however, will last significantly longer, at least two years or more. Touchup treatments of just one syringe or so will be required periodically to compensate for your normal collagen loss in order to maintain the results.

Botulinum Toxin (BTX) in the forms of Botox®, Dysport® or Xeomin® is known primarily for smoothing frown lines or crows feet wrinkles on the face. But over the years and after a long record of successfully addressing cosmetic concerns, it has become more common to treat non-cosmetic neuromuscular-related conditions with Botulinum toxin, as well.

Botox® Or Dysport,® Not Only For Facial Wrinkles!

BTX has been approved by the FDA to treat several non-cosmetic ailments, including: • Cervical Dystonia - a condition that causes painful uncontrolled neck muscle spasms •

Blepharospasm - abnormal eye twitching

• Hyperhidrosis - severe sweating in areas such as the underarms or hands •

Chronic Migraine Headaches

• Urine Incontinence due to an overactive bladder • Strabismus – improperly aligned eyes, such as crossed eyes, eyes angled inward, upward, or downward BTX has also been used extensively for ‘off-label’ treatments such as: •

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Bruxism - Jaw Clinching or Teeth Grinding

• Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) Syndrome – inflammation of the joint in the mouth Injection of Botulinum in these conditions can provide an effective, fast, inexpensive and safe relief of symptoms.

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American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Facts:

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To support the fight against breast cancer, visit cancer.org or call 800-227-2345. experience. In communities nationwide, we’re helping people right now by providing:

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and a perfect time to learn more about the disease and what you can do to fight it. As a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers, the American Cancer Society is making an impact in the fight to end breast cancer and all cancers.

• Transportation assistance to and from treatment • Free lodging when the treatment facility is far from home • Emotional support programs that connect newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with trained breast cancer survivors

The Society estimates that 232,670 Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014, including 6,170 in Virginia.

• Assistance with treatment-related physical side effects

We are making progress. Breast cancer death rates decreased by 34 percent between 1990 and 2010 (the most recent year for which data are available). Much of this progress is due to increases in early detection and improvements in treatment.

• An online support network • Information, answers, and support through our National Cancer Information Center available 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Finding breast cancer early increases a woman’s chances for survival. In fact, breast cancers found at their earliest stage have a five-year relative survival rate of 99 percent.

• Helping address quality of life concerns (such as pain, symptoms, stress, and other disabilities) that treat the person beyond the disease

Mammograms can often detect breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment is more effective. The Society recommends that all women 40 and older have a mammogram every year.

• Supporting person-centered care planning, communication, and informed treatment decision making aligned with individual and family goals To connect with these resources and more, call 800-227-2345

At cancer.org/remindme, you and the women you care about can sign up to receive an email that will remind you to schedule the type of breast cancer screening the Society recommends based on our latest guidelines. The Society recommends that all women 40 and older get a mammogram every year, in addition to a breast exam by their doctor or nurse as part of their regular health checkups.

Although progress has been made against breast cancer, too many lives are still claimed by the disease. There will be an estimated 40,000 deaths from the disease this year, including more than 1,000 in Virginia. The American Cancer Society is currently supporting 128 grants with $74.6 million to find the answers that will help save lives from breast cancer. Here are just a few of the breast cancer research breakthroughs we’ve played a role in:

Studies have shown that being overweight or obese increases the risk for certain cancers, including breast cancer. That is why the American Cancer Society recommends that everyone:

• Establishing mammography as the standard to find breast cancer early

• Maintain a healthy weight throughout life

• Discovering lifesaving treatments such as Herceptin and Tamoxifen

• Be active. Get at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity every week

• Discovering genes that cause breast cancer

• Eat healthy. Choose foods and drinks in amounts that help you maintain a healthy weight. Limit red and processed meat. Eat at least 2.5 cups of fruits and vegetables daily and choose whole grains instead of refined-grain foods

• Deepening the knowledge of how genetics, body weight, lack of exercise, and alcohol use can increase a person’s cancer risk • Discovering the benefits of breast-conserving surgery, such as lumpectomy plus radiation for treatment

Having cancer is hard. Finding help shouldn’t be. That’s why the American Cancer Society is here around the clock to guide you through every step of a breast cancer

• Palliative care, psychosocial care, and impairment driven rehabilitation addressing symptoms and late effects

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Women are at the epicenter of the Alzheimer’s crisis. Almost two-thirds of American seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease are women. Not only are women more likely to have Alzheimer’s, they are also more likely to be caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s - sixty-three percent of unpaid caregivers are women. According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2014 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, a woman’s estimated lifetime risk of developing Alzheimer’s at age 65 is 1 in 6, compared with nearly 1 in 11 for a man. As real a concern as breast cancer is to women’s health, women in their 60s are about twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s over the rest of their lives as they are to develop breast cancer. Adding to women’s Alzheimer’s burden, there are 2.5 times as many women than men providing intensive “on-duty” care 24 hours for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease. Among caregivers who feel

Women & Alzheimer’s isolated, women are much more likely than men to link isolation with feeling depressed (17% of women vs. 2% of men). The strain of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is also felt in the workplace. Among caregivers who have been employed while they were also caregiving: 20% of women vs. 3% of men went from working full-time to working parttime while acting as a caregiver; 18% of women vs. 11% of men took a leave of absence; 11% of women vs. 5% of men gave up work entirely; 10% of women vs. 5% of men lost job benefits. Women may be the epicenter of the disease, but Alzheimer’s impacts men as well as every race, ethnicity, and economic status. One in nine individuals over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s and one in three over the age of 85. Alzheimer’s also affects those under 65. Ten million baby boomers will develop Alzheimer’s.

In Virginia, more than 130,000 individuals have Alzheimer’s, including an estimated 26,000 individuals in the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond Chapter’s 24 county and 5 city service footprint, and the Chapter provides care and support to these individuals and their caregivers while striving to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health and early detection. “As individuals age, some changes are expected, but serious memory problems are not a normal part of aging and knowing the difference between what is normal and what is not can be vitally important,” said Sherry Peterson, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond Chapter. “Although there is no cure for the disease and no test to definitively diagnose the disease, it is critical that an individual have an early and careful evaluation if they begin to exhibit signs of the disease.” These signs include: memory changes that disrupt daily life; challenges in planning or solving problems; difficulty completing familiar tasks; confusion with time or place; trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships; new problems with words in speaking and writing; misplacing things and losing the ability to retract steps; decreased or poor judgment; withdrawal from work or social activities; and changes in mood and personality.

diagnosis is important for the individual with the disease and his or her family. The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond Chapter also provides round-the-clock information and assistance through our Helpline (800-272-3900); training for family members and care providers; support groups, facilitated by trained volunteers, which meet monthly throughout the region; one-on-one consultation for individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families; nationally recognized programs that aid in the safe and timely return of patients who wander and become lost. “We cannot change your loved one’s diagnosis, but we can provide the support needed to make it easier to manage the disease and plan for the future,” added Peterson. The chapter serves persons with any dementia disease, such as vascular dementia, Lewy body disease, frontotemporal dementia, and others, not just individuals with Alzheimer’s. 90% of chapter services are offered free of charge. For more information, please visit www.alz.org/grva.

Individuals may experience one or more of the signs to varying degrees, but if you notice any of the signs, please see a doctor. Early

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Presented by: Sherry E. Peterson, MSW Chief Executive Officer Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond Chapter

M Senior Living C y Beth Stowe, L.N.H.A. B

Beth Stowe, L.N.H.A. has worked in the nursing and rehabilitation industry since 1974 receiving her administrator’s license in 1987. After obtaining her license she transferred to Westport Rehabilitation and Nursing Center as the Administrator where she has spent the majority of her career dedicating herself to building Westport into the best possible center for nursing care and rehabilitative services in the Richmond area. Under her leadership Westport has become the top performing center in a company of over 60 nursing centers earning several center achievement awards. In addition Beth’s leadership and dedication have propelled the center to a level of excellence that has earned Westport it’s coveted 5 Star rating and recognition by US News and World Report as one of the nations top nursing centers.

DPNS…New Therapy, New Hope For Patients

Dysphagia, or difficulty in swallowing, affects nearly ten million Americans. One in seventeen people will suffer with this often untreated medical disorder, and over sixty thousand Americans will die this year from complications associated with swallowing difficulties, most commonly aspiration pneumonia caused by food, liquids or saliva going down the windpipe and into the lungs. Dysphagia can arise from a variety of causes including stroke, degenerative neurological diseases, respiratory disease exacerbations, and head and neck cancer. Traditionally, speech pathologists have evaluated patients on a purely symptomatic basis, noting such behaviors as coughing or choking during meals. However, merely analyzing a patient’s symptoms allows for very little understanding of which organic or motor systems have deficits and require therapy. Treatments including generic therapy to teach new methods for swallowing and swallowing exercises have often been ineffective, largely because of poor patient compliance, targeting global deficits as opposed to specific difficulties, and poor follow through with behavioral changes. Although a change in diet has regularly been prescribed to teach the patient the easiest foods to swallow, little improvement is seen. At Westport Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, speech language pathologists use an etiological basis to analyze the swallow mechanism. By understanding the cause and origin of the dysphagia, the pathologist is able to develop a more inclusive and effective treatment plan. An initial examination called a Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) provides both a comprehensive assessment of swallow function and a baseline for initiating treatment. The therapists are then able to determine the proper diet for the patient (liquid diet, pureed food, etc.) and are able to determine the muscles to be targeted during therapy. FEES is portable, comprehensive, efficient, and convenient for the patient, and provides clinically useful information relative to swallow physiology and swallowing. Testing is done regularly throughout therapy to monitor improvements and make dietary changes as improvement is observed. After the initial FEES testing, therapy is begun on a daily basis. Deep Pharyngeal

Neuromuscular Stimulation (DPNS) is a highly specialized approach that uses both thermal and tactile stimulation to target specific reflexive muscle groups within the mouth and elicit cranial nerve involvement to target swallowing through the central command center of the brain, which is the area responsible for safe swallowing. Frozen lemon glycerin swabs are placed in direct contact with swallowing muscles (tongue, palate, throat/pharynx) in a repeated pattern targeting eleven specific stimulation sites to elicit/trigger a reflex and generate a muscle group contraction. This repeated response in turn results in increased muscle strength, endurance, speed, and sensation for swallowing. DPNS is an extremely effective method of treatment. Over time, DPNS therapy restores the sensory pathways, the muscle strength and the reflexes within the pharynx, allowing the patients to resume efficient swallowing and return to eating their favorite foods safely. It also helps restore reflexive coughing and improve vocal fold closure over the airway, both of which are important for protecting the patient when swallowing. The goal in treatment of dysphagia is to restore the swallow mechanism, allowing the patient to return back to their prior level of function or the highest level of food and liquids that can be swallowed safely. Study results indicate a success rate of

83% when DPNS is utilized. Because DPNS is such a specialized treatment approach, speech pathologists who practice it must undergo a rigorous training and certification process. The three speech language pathologists at Westport all hold a certification called The Organic Swallow with DPNS and E-Stim Certification, and are some of the few in Richmond with this level of qualification. These certified clinicians have an understanding of the organic foundations of the swallow including salivation, sensory systems, motor systems, and reflex mechanisms. Dysphagia can be devastating to the individual with the condition and the family. However, it does not have to be permanent. To learn more about dysphagia and treatment, or to learn more about Westport Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, call (804) 287-8600 or visit www. westportrehab.com. Westport Rehabilitation and Nursing Center is the only consistent 5 Star rated center under the Medicare rating system. This year U.S. News and World Report recognized it as one of the top nursing centers in the nation. The warm, friendly environment and commitment to each patient’s successful recovery has resulted in a reputation as one of the most highly sought after health care centers in Virginia.

Westport…Your Road to Recovery Specializing in Medical and Physical Rehabilitation Orthopedics • Heart Failure Management • Stroke Recovery Physical, occupational, & speech therapy available 7 days a week Spacious 5,000 sq. ft. rehab gym: state-of-the art therapeutic equipment (E-stim, ultrasound, electromagnetic energy) Newly renovated rooms and amenities

The Area’s Only Consistently 5 Star Rated Rehabilitation & Nursing Center*

7300 Forest Avenue 804-287-8600 • www.WestportRehab.com * Consistently rated the highest possible level (5 Star) since 2007, the inception of the Medicare Quality Rating System… The only one in the Richmond MSA to do so.

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M Business Financial C y Tiffany Snyder B

Tiffany Snyder is owner and founder of The Polished Edit, a copyediting and proofreading service provider. Tiffany attended Coppin State University where she studied Liberal Arts English. She has many years of experience writing and editing on both a personal and professional level. Much of Tiffany’s expertise was garnered through her years of experience working in the insurance industry. Tiffany loves all things related to words. She enjoys typography, calligraphy, reading, writing and playing word games. Tiffany decided to share her passion for the written word by offering her copy editing and proofreading services via the internet so that she can be of service to anyone regardless of their location. In addition to being enthusiastic about her craft, Tiffany also shares her love of art with her daughter, Amira Jael.

Writing A Book? Get Organized Before You Start!

Writing a book is one of the most demanding and rewarding things you will ever do. It takes steadfastness, endurance and hard work to finish a book. No matter how you approach the task, time and commitment is required. They say we all have a novel in us, but most struggle to get ideas onto paper. Before you begin writing, get organized. Approaching the process with a well-thought out plan, makes the process more enjoyable. Many writers believe that a lack of planning can produce major plot and character mishaps. Start with an organized, workable format and the likelihood that you’ll finish is increased exponentially. There’s no magical formula that’s suitable every writer – what works for one could be vexing for another. The method that works best for you will evolve naturally as you practice writing. The following tips will help you get started: Summarize with a 1-2 sentence summary. Succinctly expressing the basis of your novel is requisite. It’s the most concise step, but it’s crucial to the strength of your story. Don’t name characters, just describe them, e.g. “a fallen Hollywood producer”. Tighten your story’s focus if the main concept cannot be captured in two sentences or less.

Example: A fallen Hollywood producer inherits the rights to a literary gem, and must find a way to get it to the big screen despite his tarnished reputation in the industry. A defined focus for your story is vital. Doing too much in the story will alienate readers.

Describe the story with a synopsis. A good synopsis will cover the main elements of your plot, and offer insights into your characters and their motivations. Avoid excessive

details, the synopsis should be condensed. Three to five pages is typical, but depends on the novels’ intricacy.

Outline the plot of your story. The outline serves as a very rough guideline to hold the plot in place. Following it word for word isn’t necessary. In my opinion, outlining is indispensable. I believe it emboldens you to write speedily with enough space for improvisation. The outline should briefly detail each chapter; portray the main conflict in the novel; and reveal the way events and characters of the story affect each other.

Write with reckless abandon to discover the story. As you write, characters and plots shift in unexpected ways. You may stray from the outline, or abandon it completely. You’ll learn to be flexible and to push yourself creatively. Write quickly without editing as you go--the faster you can get your ideas out, the better. Trying to edit as you write, kills the narrative before it unfolds. An obscure scene or chapter is acceptable at this point. Extinguish the need for perfection and press forward. Finish your manuscript, then put it away, and don’t think about it for a month or two. Time effects the clarity required to analyze your writing dispassionately.

novice from the professional. It’s the antithesis of creative writing. Beautifully spun metaphors and the marvelous adverb you found after a lengthy search in the thesaurus? Nixed. Negative attitudes towards editing evolve because most writers lack the critical distance required to edit their own books properly. I strongly urge the novice writer to employ a professional editor who’s accustomed to interacting with authors in a mutually respectful relationship. In the absence of emotional connections to the writing, the professional can edit the manuscript by reduction to omit passages that don’t move the work forward;

rethink and rearrange for unity, coherence and emphasis; revise by rewording to maintain the style you’ve developed; watch for misuse of figurative language; and catch common misspellings and incorrect usages, to name a few. The professional editing process is an invaluable education for the novice writer. The experience always yields a more skilled, mature writer. Writing a novel is an enormous, tedious undertaking, but it can be an exciting adventure when the process is broken into manageable parts. With the fundamentals covered, all that’s left is to get started! Enjoy the process!

Your ideas. Refined. Refinished. Your words. Restated. Renewed.

To boost the effectiveness of your communications... Contact Tiffany Snyder at tiffany@thepolishededit.com or call 888-663-4440

Rewrite. The focus of the rewrite is to cultivate a strong narrative, and to let your artistic talent take the stage at the same time. Experiment and allow your creativity to fully emerge. Rewriting is the most rewarding stage of the writing process, but it takes practice, patience, and much more time. Again, don’t fuss over the wording, editing covers that.

ThePolishedEdit.com

Edit your manuscript. Editing truly separates the

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M Business Financial C

VISION

No cancer patient goes without needed support services.

MISSION

LINC eases the burden of cancer for patients and their families by providing assistance and referral to legal , financial and community resources.

Greg Hall was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2007 when he was only 30 years old. While going through treatment, he had the support of his doctors and wife, but it was his insurance company that pulled the rug out from under him. They canceled his insurance in the middle of cancer treatment because they claimed he had a preexisting condition. “I felt like I had been stabbed in the heart,” he said. “I felt like I was going to die. I was so scared. It was canceled just after surgery and then I was told the cancer had metastasized.” With the news of the cancer metastasizing to his paraaortic lymph nodes, near his heart, and the loss of coverage, Greg faced one of the most frightening challenges of his life. “I was told that if I couldn’t afford the treatment, I’d be in a box.” Thanks to his doctors and Livestrong, Greg was able to apply and get grants to help him pay for his treatment. He was also put through every trial available by his oncologist to help fight his cancer. Greg survived and got through that trying period without the coverage he needed. It wasn’t until seven years later with the passing of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that he was able to finally get coverage again. With the removal of the preexisting condition exclusion, Greg went to sign up for insurance with relief. “I was one of the first to sign

up.” He did encounter a few bugs at first as the roll out and website proved to have issues, but after the initial growing pains he received service and coverage that he describes as “amazing.”

Cancer Survivor Benefits from Affordable Care Act Upcomming Events:

Sneak Peek “It’s in the Bag” Party at It’s Chic Again on January 15, 6:00pm, Free LINC’s Live and Silent Handbag Auction, “It’s in the Bag” February 5th, 6:00pm at Willow Oaks Country Club. Tickets $45

After years without health insurance while facing a serious medical illness, the healthcare law brought more than health insurance – it brought new hope and emotional relief. ”It was a battle until the ACA came through. Now I am not worried about getting sick anymore.” For Greg and his wife Ann, it has been a life changer. His specialist visits went from being $950 to $50 and when Ann found herself without insurance, Greg called the Marketplace up and she was covered within the hour. For Greg and Ann, the ACA transformed their lives for the better and it has the potential to do so for millions of others. This is why the Legal Information Network for Cancer (LINC) has collaborated with navigators from Enroll Virginia to present free seminars on the ACA. Thus far, LINC has held six seminars and the information has been so valuable that many were able to get coverage.

Cancer treatment is so much more than a medical issue. Cancer patients need support services to address all the non-medical issues that arise with a diagnosis. This means that hospitals and organizations like LINC are stepping up to provide a holistic approach to treating cancer. To better provide for cancer patients in the Greater Richmond area, LINC is offering more free, helpful seminars including Tax Tips for Cancer Patients; Health, Wellness, and Nutrition; Financial Planning and Advisement; as well as free Simple Wills Clinics for cancer survivors that qualify. Visit our website for times, locations and details about these and other helpful seminars offered by LINC and our community partners. www. cancerlinc.org

Tax Tips for Cancer Patients, February 11, HCA Johnston Willis Hospital-Free Seminar Health, Nutrition and Wellness-Free Seminar, Spring 2015 For more information contact lindsey.c.leach@ cancerlinc.org

By Lindsey C. Leach

Lindsey Leach earned her B.A. from Christopher Newport University in Sociology with an Anthropology concentration and English with a Journalism concentration. After working for The Daily Press, at a Montessori school, and at Henrico County, Lindsey reoriented herself toward a field that had always been near and dear to her: nonprofit. Soon after becoming the Executive Assistant at the Legal Information Network for Cancer (LINC), Lindsey earned two certificates from the University of Richmond’s Institute on Philanthropy in Nonprofit Marketing, and Fundraising and Development. She is currently enrolled in UR’s SPCS Master’s in Nonprofit Studies program. Lindsey continues to progress and excel within her position, as she manages the office and donor database, is responsible for volunteer recruitment, outreach and education, marketing, social media, development and fundraising, and event planning. Lindsey recently received a promotion at LINC and is now the Development, Special Events, and Volunteer Coordinator.

LEGAL INFORMATION NETWORK FOR CANCER WWW.CANCERLINC.ORG 1423 JOHNSTON WILLIS DR RICHMOND, VA 23235 804-562-0371 X1

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y Tanya Madison Morrison, Esquire B

M Business Financial C

Tanya Madison Morrison, Esquire, is an attorney specializing in business development and charitable organizations. She coauthored COMMUNITY INVESTORS: Making Money While Making Social Change, an inspirational business book that provides strategies for tax-exempt organization to access alternative sources of money and wealth. Her passion for entrepreneurship, economic development and humanities is the foundation of her efforts to connect community needs with financial resources. She has served as Adjunct Professor at American University in Washington, D.C., and currently travels nationally and internationally, speaking at conferences and seminars on the subjects of leadership, education and college access, professional development, social change and women’s empowerment. Recognized by the United States Small Business Administration as a business leader, Tanya has helped thousands of women pursue their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Become A Community Investor:

Are you passionate about helping others? Do you want to start a business that will make a difference in the world—a college readiness service, senior care center, environmental stewardship program, child care center, nutrition and agriculture (farming) program, youth development program—but you don’t know where to begin? If you answered “yes,” consider yourself a Community Investor! A Community Investor is 1) a person who wants to invest time, talent and resources in the social sector using the incentives of tax exemption, 2) a business that operates with the objective of realizing a profit while making a social impact using strategies reserved for public charities, or 3) an organization that uses the privileges of tax exemption to become a “magnet for money” and, as a result, change lives. One of the first and most important steps is choosing your business structure: corporation, limited liability company (LLC), notfor-profit, etc. Your decision will depend on the nature of your business and clientele. If your business will meet a public need, consider an entity that enables you to obtain 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service (the IRS). Many people steer away from a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt structure because of what they don’t know or because of myths about “nonprofits.” In so doing, they miss out on economic incentives available to such businesses. But “nonprofit” does not mean “no money”! Actually, a tax-exempt organization may yield greater opportunities to build wealth than other entities

5 Myths to Dispel Before Structuring Your Business

would because of access to income streams not otherwise available. For instance, your idea to create social change might serve people with the ability to pay for the service (fee-for-service). Or a corporate sponsor, private foundation or individual donor interested in your service or product might contribute funds to support it. Such income streams usually require that the business be a 501(c)(3), often referred to as a “nonprofit” or a “social sector organization.” So let’s dispel some of those myths associated with “nonprofits”: MYTH #1 – “Nonprofits cannot make a profit.” FACT: The word “nonprofit” is a misnomer. In fact, “nonprofit” could mean more money because a 501(c)(3) business that properly uses the privileges and benefits associated with that designation can actually become quite profitable. Because a tax-exempt organization (TEO)—a more accurate term than “nonprofit”—is a business, the goal, as with any business, should be to be profitable. After all, the more profitable your business, the more people you can serve. TEOs are not prohibited from making a profit, only from distributing those profits inappropriately to people in control of the business. Whereas the owners of an LLC can distribute and spend profits any way they desire, those who operate a TEO must use profits to further the business’s purpose. MYTH #2 – “I can’t get paid for running a nonprofit.” FACT: You can receive a reasonable salary for services rendered to the TEO. Though the law prohibits an individual with significant influence over the TEO from receiving benefits greater than the service she provides, fair and reasonable

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compensation is acceptable. Whereas the owner of an LLC can pay herself an unlimited salary for providing even minimal service, the head of a TEO is prohibited from receiving excessive compensation. (“Excessive” is relative based on the position and industry standards.) MYTH #3 – “No one gives to nonprofits anymore.” FACT: Total charitable giving by U.S. individuals, corporations, foundations and bequests was estimated at over $335 billion in 2013, a 4.4 percent current dollar increase from 2012. Giving by individual Americans to charities was estimated to have increased by 4.2 percent and giving by foundations increased by an estimated 5.7 percent. Additionally, giving by bequest was estimated to have increased by 8.7 percent in 2013. People, foundations and corporations still give to social causes they deem important. (Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, Giving USA 2014) MYTH #4 – “My idea is too small to be funded.” FACT: Funding isn’t determined by the “size” of your idea but by the population, cause and need served. Selecting a public need to meet is important and should be part of the research phase before structuring your business. Furthermore, the definition of “public need” isn’t limited to a charity but also refers to the industry in which you’ll serve, such as education, environment, nutrition, health care or any area that addresses a public concern. MYTH #5 – “Community organizations only serve the poor; my idea is different.” FACT: The poor are no longer the dominant group seeking services from TEOs. The middle class, baby boomers, seniors, youth, women,

families and special-interest groups also have needs that can be met by social sector organizations, and their needs can be served in more profitable ways. Thus, fee-based and other earned-income, tax-exempt activities are becoming the norm. As you can see, the social sector offers untapped resources for creative, innovative and energetic Community Investors to explore while improving lives. Yes, rules exist to govern who benefits and how income is used, but don’t consider the rules so restrictive that you dare not take advantage of the benefits. If you are both passionate about making a difference for individuals and communities and strongly driven to create financial opportunities for yourself and others, become a Community Investor. A 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization is a highly effective vehicle through which to access those opportunities. And now is a fantastic time to get started! Call Tanya TODAY at 804-251-1785 to schedule your FREE consultation about becoming a Community Investor! Appointments are limited.

BUY YOUR BOOK TODAY www.TheCommunityInvestors.com hardcopy or ebook ebook hardcopy or call 804-251-1785 for for more information call 202-747-5288 more info

QU OT E S

You fail, and then what? Life goes on. It’s only when you risk failure that you discover things.” – Lupita Nyong’o

“Do stuff. Be clenched, curious. Not waiting for inspiration’s shove or society’s kiss on your forehead.. Pay attention. It’s all about paying attention. It’s all about talking in as much of what’s out there as you can, and not letting the excuses and the dreariness of some of the obligations you’ll soon be incurring narrow your lives” – Susan Sontag “ You have to make mistakes to find out who you aren’t. You take the action, and the insights follows: You don’t think your ways into becoming yourself ” – Anne Lamott

You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not be reduced by them.” Maya Angelou

“Pressure is a privilege… it’s what you do with it that matters”..

Billie Jean King

“I think life is always dangerous. Some people get afraid of it. Some people don’t go forward. But some people, if they want to achieve their goal, they have to go. They have to move…” Malala Yousafzai

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Follow Your Business &Financial MC Business Compass To A Place Called Purpose

Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

y Donna Duffy B Intention Into Action In 2015

It’s not enough to just run a business; instead as entrepreneurs, we should craft a life and business of impact and influence. The more our passion and purpose, products and services align with the needs in the marketplace, the greater that impact will be. How we best serve and deliver excellence and value must be coupled with a great sense of purpose if we intend on establishing authenticity and credibility. So here are several ways to be sure your compass is set to True North and leads you continually in the direction of service and success! The Inner Compass--Mindset and Mission N: Narrow your niche; align it with the needs/wants of prospective buyers and clients Knowing who you are meant to serve allows for a great sense of ease and abundance. Not having to chase after every sale allows your marketing message to best match those meant to receive it; with whom you have the greatest alignment. This calls for sharpened sense of understanding of why you are in business and who resonates with the products or services you have to offer. S: See all the potential and possibility there is for you Now that you have greater clarity, you begin to see that opportunities that are there for you and for those who will buy from you. Keeping your vision and scope alive and aware to what’s around you allows you step in because you’re ready. You know that, “when the student is ready, the teacher appears,” so you will be equipped for what you need as you go toward it. E: Envision the end goal and embrace your dream Only with a view to your end goal will you know when you’ve arrived

at your destination. So casting vision, mapping out your manifesto, getting clear on what you bring to the world and crystallizing your WHY, are all essential to staying on track as you pursue that which is tucked in your heart to do. W: Walk and work in that direction until you get there Everyday, take positive, intentional, deliberate action in the direction of your goals and dreams. Everyday serve with your whole heart; with excellence, in the areas of your expertise. Steady, consistent, micro actions lead to a big return over time. The Outer Compass--Tools and Techniques N: Network with others both live and virtually In order to make an impact in the marketplace, you need to be seen. We always say that presence precedes profit so whether you connect over coffee, at an event or online through social media, it’s essential that those who need your products and services can readily find you. S: Set up systems for your marketing and sales To truly be successful and scale in business, you will need solid, repeatable systems and strategies in place. Everything from email, social media, blogging and networking should have a strategy that fits into an overall system. So much time is wasted reinventing the wheel and going back to the drawing board when instead the time would be much better spent crafting and creating templates that can be used again and again. E: Embark continually on ways that keep your expertise in front of others You can be great at what you do but if no one knows you, then you’re like the best kept secret. It’s time

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to get out there. Mix and mingle, connect and collaborate, teach and share your ideas with the world. It will not only bolster your offerings of products and services but build trust and credibility in the process.

on course:

W: Willing carve out time in your schedule to read and learn as well as rest and recharge Fresh ideas and additional revenue streams come from having time to uptake new information. When you’re too busy or stressed, always on the go, always in tactical mode, you leave no time to ponder better strategies and ways of doing things. Determine that in this New Year, you’ll make time for yourself, which in turn, will greatly benefit your business as well.

WHO are you serving and how can you best serve them?

True North--The Place called Purpose As you enter into this New Year and the next 90 Days, and work with excellence, in your business every day, keep these questions in mind and refer back to them to keep you

WHY are you doing what you’re doing? WHAT is the most significant thing you bring to the marketplace?

HOW do you know when you get there? At the beginning of a New Year, quarter, week or day--even this very next hour; take time to gain the clarity and certainty that what you bring best serves those who buy from you. If you need greater clarity and direction for your inner compass or strategy for your outer compass, we would love to meet with you. Schedule a 90 Minute Strategy Session or complimentary Marketing Foglift to get clear on ways you can find True North and take your business to the next level to make 2015 your best year yet!

Pre-Need

M Funeral C

y Donna S. Buchanan B

Woody Funeral Homes are dedicated to helping you celebrate your life or that of a loved one with a funeral or memorial service befitting of the life lived. Each family we serve, regardless of their faith, tradition or financial circumstance, can expect to be cared for with dignity, professionalism, respect and compassion. With a commitment to high standards of service and excellence throughout our history, we have continued to lead and innovate while maintaining those high standards of service.

10 Things Everyone Should Know About Planning A Funeral Or Memorial Service

No one wants to talk about death or dying or to plan their own funeral. The death of someone you care for, together with wanting to make the right decision leaves many families feeling overwhelmed. Often these decisions must be made when a family is grieving and is the least prepared. That’s why it’s so important to give serious thought to your personal wishes and to prearrange your services in advance. 1. Be informed about the choices available How would like to be remembered? Your funeral or memorial service should be personalized to reflect your wishes and should bring comfort to your family and friends. Prearranging gives you the opportunity to become informed about your options in an unpressured environment, when you have the time to think things through. 2. Record your wishes Your survivors benefit the most when you prearrange. It also ensures that your wishes are made known. Make sure your wishes are recorded in writing and shared with your family. Keep a copy with your important papers that is easily accessible to your family members. 3. Talk about it with your family and incorporate their wishes A funeral or memorial service is an important part of the grieving process. For family members and loved ones alike, the service provides an opportunity to express their grief, to share memories and to celebrate the life lived. Prearranging is an excellent time for families to discuss and make objective decisions calmly and rationally together.

4. Decide the final disposition Determining your final disposition by burial or cremation is a very personal decision, influenced by your faith and beliefs.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask about prices Prearranging enables you to keep your financial commitment to a comfortable level while eliminating the future financial burden placed on your surviving family members. 6. Consider planning and prepaying for your arrangements Prepaying for your services can take care of the actual expense of the service ahead of time, easing the future financial burden on your surviving loved ones.

for medicaid assistance to learn more about virginia’s requirements.

9. Find out ahead of time what government benefits you are eligible to receive Unfortunately, most funeral and burial benefits provided by the social security administration as well as the vetrans administration are limited. Most families find that additional funding is necessary in order to provide the type of service they find appropriate for their loved one. To find out exactly what benefits you are eligible to receive contact www.Ssa.Gov and www. Cem.Va.Gov

7. Why insurance may not be enough Usually, life insurance, as well as final expense insurance provides a one-time lump sum benefit after a death has occurred. There is no guarantee that the funds will not be consumed by the expenses that result from a long illness or serious accident. Purchasing prearrangements combine the benefits of insurance with a guaranteed service and price.

10. Speak with your local dignity memorial provider Our funeral counselors are trained professionals who can be a vital and supportive resource for you and your family. With years of experience, they can explain all the options available and help you make informed decisions. They can guide you step-by-step through the process of prearranging.

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8. A prearranged funeral or cremation service and medicaid assistance In virginia, a prearranged funeral or cremation service funded by the life insurance may be treated as an exempt asset for medicaid qualification purposes. This allows you to prearrange the service you desire while maintaining your assistance eligibility. Please consult with your attorney before applying

Huguenot Chapel 1020 Huguenot Road Midlothian, Va 23113 {804} 794-1000 Atlee Chapel 9271 Shady Grove Road Mechanicsville, Va 23116 {804} 730-0035

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My clients love it here.” -

7465 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE 19707

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“Really friendly and fun atmosphere. We ar PROFESSIONAL really close. The environment is stress-free b HAIR we all work together to make this the best atmosphere for our clients. I love working h STYLISTSStudio J. Christian of J. Christian Donna Full-Time J Christian Studio is an award-winning, upscale salon located in Hockessin, Delaware. We are accredited by the Better Business Bureau of Delaware and recipient of a Torch Award for Market Place Ethics. The salon is the Part-Time concept of J Christian, an International Platform Artist and Master Educator and a Member of the New Castle “I loved working here. You’ve built your book; people. If you are looki County Chamber of Commerce. want a place with no and to take your career the place. If I didn’t m drama, where your boss still be at the studio.” respects you. Join this award-winning “A place I love to go to work every day. salon today. whole the studio has wonderful, fantas

I Think I’m Wearing Someone Else’s Hair

That phrase. I hear it often from women of all ages. In fact, you would probably be surprised to learn you may have used one of these phrases yourself. “When I look in the mirror I see my Mother, I don’t want to look like my Mother.” “I was born with the wrong hair! It’s too kinky. I just want it to be straight and not frizzy.” “My hair makes me look like an old lady. I don’t want to look like an old lady!” All women have hair envy; and some, hereditary hair fears. If you find yourself preoccupied with your hair or fighting more than your fair share of bad hair days, it’s time to make a new year’s resolution to resolve your hair dilemma once and for all. A New Kind of New Year’s Resolution You’ve heard all the old clichés. New Year, New You; Out with the old, in with the new! That’s all well and good, except with your hairstyle. Impulsive changes could lead to a new set of issues. Unlike committing to a new diet or exercise routine, the consequences of this change can make you miserable for 6 months or more! Given that 92% of Americans fail to

keep their resolutions, an impulsive hair adventure could be ugly.

Love this quote from Coco Chanel. Caution: Literal interpretation is dangerous. Box color and cutting shears are at your fingertips in every CVS, Walmart and so on. It takes talent to walk you confidently through your transformation. See a skilled seasoned professional. There’s a lot to be considered before making the big move. 1. Natural Texture Fine hair looks thicker when shorter. The longer it is the stringier and thinner it looks. Curly, the manageability and overall look of your style is determined by the cut. An advanced stylist has mastered the art of cutting within the architecture of your hair. Square layering (standard American cutting technique) results in that “triangle” hair style all my curlyhaired clients abhor with a passion. Your haircut should look great curly or straight. 2. The Shape of Your Face Round face? Short hair and fringe, accentuates roundness. You can go with a longer version of a short cut by keeping the front longer. Longer, leaner lengths around the face narrow a chubby face or

broad jaw. Long face? Avoid long hairstyles; they could make your face look longer. Shorter hair will flatter you more and balance out your look by adding some width.

3. Seriously Ask Yourself “How much time am I willing to spend styling my hair each morning?” Be honest here. Truth will prevail anyway. Most styles can be manipulated into a certain shape if cut properly, but if you’re not willing to put the work in to achieve the desired outcome and it’s drastically different from what you have now, go a different route. 4. The Density of Your Hair Bigger, fuller, denser hair is best left on the longer side. Length keeps the volume down. Plus, with the right kind of layering (long to midlength layering) fuller heads of hair can still obtain ideal volume and movement without looking puffy. 5. Consult Your Stylist or NOT Not to be snotty or anything, but if your hair has been bugging you long enough to bring you to this

article, base. it may be time to and change They’re upbeat happy and sin stylists.noMost women hold their and J, it friction between the stylists relationship they’ve this thewith best the placeperson to work.” - Kathy spilled their guts to over the years as very sacred and find it difficult to break off the relationship. But here, consider this for one moment: As with any other profession, once the boundary of professional association is breached, the rules of engagement change. Getting too comfortable in your relationship can and often does erode the aura of customer service. Comfort leads to complacency. Complacency leads to mediocrity. Mediocrity leads to resentment. Don’t pay to feed feelings of resentment. 6. The Most Important Thing a Girl Wears is Her Confidence Anyone can rock a version of any style as long as they feel good about it! Embrace the change! Be confident in your new look. By being confident with your new look; you convince others to be confident with it too.

Dear Hair, If you cooperated in the first place, we wouldn’t have to do this the hard way. Sincerely, Girl with the Flat Iron “Remember, it is not the box or the bottle that does the work, it is the hands and the mind using the color that is key.” - Rick Wellman “A Woman Who Cuts Her Hair is About to Change Her Life” – Coco Chanel www.RVAWomensJournal.com

Where Hair and Art Perform 7465 Lancaster Pike Hockessin, DE 19707 Phone: 302.235.2306

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Look Good Feel Better Look Good Feel Better is a free national public service program that is a collaboration between the American Cancer Society, the Personal Care Products Council Foundation and the Professional Beauty Association. The program teaches women cancer patients to manage the appearance side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Group sessions in the Richmond area are led by trained beauty professionals.

Are Look Good Feel Better services really free?

The program is free to women going through or just completing cancer treatment. The Personal Care Products Council raises money and donates individual cosmetic products and the American Cancer Society administers the program nationally through trained volunteers, whom the Professional Beauty Association helps to recruit.

perhaps most valuable of all, participants receive the support of other women coping with cancer treatment – those about to go through it, those experiencing it, and those who’ve been there. Time after time, women who considered staying home tell program volunteers how glad they are to have made the effort to come. They say that the impact on their looks and outlooks is immeasurable.

Does the program recommend any particular cosmetic or skin care brands to use during cancer treatments?

Look Good Feel Better does not recommend products by brand, but does believe mild products are best. The program’s website recommends that before adopting any skin care regimen, be sure to have your physician’s OK.

Does Look Good Feel Better have a What will patients learn by going to a group program for men undergoing cancer treatments? program that they can’t learn at home? Group programs are step-by-step makeover learning sessions led by trained cosmetology professionals. Any questions patients may have – such as how to fill in or draw in eyebrows or how to camouflage particular types of pigmentation – will be answered firsthand. Every participant receives a free makeup kit with brand-name cosmetics to use during the session and to take home, helping minimize shopping time and expense. There are opportunities to learn how to use wigs, hats and turbans in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. And,

A self-help brochure and video for men undergoing cancer treatment provides information on appearance-related side effects of treatment as well as other useful tips. A PDF version of the brochure is available on line at www. lookgoodfeelbetter.org, or by calling 800-395LOOK (5665)

Upcoming Greater Richmond Sessions: John Randolph Medical Center - Hopewell To register: American Cancer Society - 804.527.3700, opt. 3 March 3

For For more more information information and and cancer cancer support, support, call call the the American American Cancer Cancer Society Society 24 24 hours, hours, seven seven days days a a week week at at 800-227-2345 800-227-2345

The Hawthorne Located in the Thomas Johns Cancer Center on the Johnston-Willis Hospital Campus To register: American Cancer Society-804.527.3700, opt. 3 January 16 & March 20

Hanover Massey Cancer Center - Mechanicsville To register: Whitney Burton - 804.828.1066 February 3 Massey Cancer Center MCV/VCU - Richmond To register: Whitney Burton 804.828.1066 April 14

Bon Secours Cancer Institute at St. Francis To register: American Cancer Society-804.527.3700, opt. 3 February 2

Henrico Doctors’ Hospital - Forest Medical Plaza To register: Elizabeth Adamson 804.237.7950 January 16 & March 20 Bon Secours Cancer Institute at St. Mary’s Hospital To register: Cathy Willis - 804.287.7809 January 27 & March 24

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Visit us on the web:

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www.getlifecoaching.com www.facebook.com/getlifecoaching www.twitter.com/getlifecoaching

y By Joe White. President and Founder of Get Life Coaching. B 2013 Entrepreneur of The Year

Break Free From The Grips Of Fear

What keeps anyone from changing? It is fear-- fear of failure, fear of success, fear of rejection, fear of not being enough, fear of not being loved, fear of loss, fear of getting revealed as a fraud, fear of change, fear of all of the above. Fear cripples us, limits us and robs us of the ability to respond. In the end it keeps us from the life that we really want. Even after we know the effects of fear and we experience the effects of fear we do little or nothing to change. Our response usually comes in the form of an “I tried.” We say, “I tried to change,” or “I am really trying to get better,” but the truth is that “trying” will never get you anything other than a reason why things didn’t work out. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to break through the barrier of your fear.

of what we really want, our brain will begin to find ways to make it a reality.

in which we get people to move past their fears. That is the day where they take everything they learn and apply it to break a pine board with their bare hand. As we get closer to the time when we break boards, you can see the fear begin to rise. Even though they now have the resources, they become scared to take the action. You can imagine how powerful it is when they push past the fear and take action and they see the board is broken! Don’t stop at the doorway, go through the door of opportunity.

3) Recognize your resources We all have resources. Sometimes it is a friend or co-worker, other times it is within us from a time in the past we overcame fear, or it is a place where we can go to get more information and help. Regardless where we find the resources we must prepare before we take action. It is like a country that is preparing for war. They begin to stock pile weapons. You need to stock pile your resources now. 4) Take massive action This is the step where people stop. It is also called approach avoidance. I conduct a seminar called Breaking Through The Barrier. It is a seminar

5) Don’t give up Even when we take action, it doesn’t mean we will automatically get the results. We could be doing the wrong action, not enough action, not doing the action long enough yet. We cannot always measure

5 Keys Of Breaking Through The Barrier Of Fear 1) See it as it is, not worse Too often we make our fears bigger than they really are. It always reminds me of the wizard in the Wizard of Oz. The big scary Wizard was really a small little scared man. We can’t dismiss the fear, because fear is ultimately here to serve us, but we want to hear its message and then move forward. Most of the times we can handle the fear of normal proportion. It’s when it becomes larger than life that we become overwhelmed by its presence. 2) See it better than it is Our brains work on two guiding principles, one is the desire to avoid pain and the other is the desire to gain pleasure. When we are in pain or uncomfortable we naturally will seek a way to get out of pain. If we can create a clear vision or image

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success by the results we get. We must keep focused on what is important and keep moving forward. If our approach doesn’t work, we must try something else. If that doesn’t work, we need to try something else. One quality that is so common in successful people is that they don’t give up. The acronym for FEAR is False Evidence Appearing Real. We give fear life or more life in our mind. The more we avoid it, the greater it is until it becomes a 10,000 pound gorilla. We must step up and walk through the fear. Not later, not tomorrow but now. Live Free.

I wish you love and passion

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5 Health Improvements

Improving your health and wellness can seem like a daunting task, especially if you know you have some bad health habits to break. But, several improvements you can make today can result in tremendous health benefits. “It starts with you,” says physician assistant Tricia A. Howard, a faculty member at South University, Savannah’s College of Health Professions. “You have more control over your health than you think you do.” Here are five steps you can take today that can have a positive impact on your overall health and wellness.

Stop smoking

Everyone knows smoking is bad for you. In fact, people who smoke have by far the greatest risk of lung cancer - the number one cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. - and increased risk of a cardiac event. But, many people don’t realize that changes in the lungs caused by smoking can actually improve over time once a smoker quits. “Even if you’ve smoked for many years, you can reduce your lung cancer risks just by quitting,” says Howard. “And this isn’t just about your own health. Smoking puts the ones you love at risk, because even second-hand smoke can cause cancer. So, quitting is a win-win for you and those you love.” Howard says people who want to quit smoking do better when they set a target date to quit. She also advises working with your primary health care provider who can actually individualize a

You Can Make Today That Will Pay Off For A Lifetime

stop-smoking plan for you. And, Howard says getting support from others is a crucial part of the battle.

Increase your water intake

Sixty percent of your body weight is water. Your body depends on water to carry nutrients to cells and to flush toxins out of vital organs, so getting the right amount of fluids each day is crucial. Howard says men should drink 3 liters, or 13 cups, per day. For women, the recommendation is 2.2 liters, or 9 cups, per day. If that recommendation seems tough to follow, Howard says to divide it up throughout the day. “Make sure you have water with every meal and also drink water at least once between each meal,” she suggests. “That divides up your fluid intake and can make the amount seem less daunting.” And, Howard says you don’t have to stick to water. Milk, coffee, and other drinks that contain a lot of water and not a lot of calories count towards your daily fluid intake.

Exercise

“Exercise reduces your risk for chronic disease, improves balance and coordination and helps with weight loss,” Howard says. “Exercise is a key part of living a healthy life.” Howard says the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise, or 90 minutes of vigorous exercise a week, for adults. “That sounds like a lot,” Howard acknowledges. “But, if you break it into 15-or-20-minute daily workouts it’s much easier to fit into your schedule. You don’t have to spend hours at a time in the gym to reap the benefits.” Howard says recent studies have shown that even short bursts of exercise can be helpful.

Adopt the Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet is a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, nuts and fish. The results of numerous studies show long-term health benefits to adopting the diet. “This is a diet filled with antioxidants and antiinflammatories,” Howard explains. “This diet has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer when adhered to long-term. Weight loss and improvement in cholesterol can be seen after just a few months.”

Have your cholesterol checked

You might be surprised to learn that you should begin having your cholesterol monitored by a doctor at age 20. But since coronary artery disease is the number one cause of death in the U.S., it’s a recommendation you should take seriously. “There is no reason to avoid having your cholesterol checked,” Howard says. “If your cholesterol levels aren’t where they should be, you can change them.” Howard says levels that are too high can be controlled by diet, quitting smoking, exercise, and even prescription medication. “There are so many things we can do to improve not only the length of our life, but the quality of those years,” Howard encourages. “Don’t wait. Commit today to making a few small changes, and see how they improve your health over time.”

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Healthy Balsamic Vinegars Come In Dark And White By Dolores Waddell Balsamic vinegars are best known as Italian vinegars and ours comes directly from Modena, Italy. Some have not had the opportunity to taste a white balsamic vinegar, they are light, crisp and delicious! White balsamic vinegars have a sweet, subtle flavor, come in a clean color and are primarily served with light colored foods. The exception to this is mixing it with a Fusions Taster’s Choice Olive Oil creating your own salad dressing served

on a bed of crisp mixed greens with feta cheese, some grape tomatoes and a sprinkle of sunflower seeds. When using dark balsamic vinegars, the color of your food will take on a dark hue much like the dark vinegar used, white vinegars do not discolor your foods. Fusions Taster’s Choice Both White and Dark Balsamic Vinegars have these health benefits: • Low in Calories – only need to use 1tablespoon or less, Fusions is 10 calories, a little goes a long way, great flavor • Normalizes Blood Pressure - reduces the hardening of arteries, also known as

atherosclerosis. Because of this, balsamic vinegar also lowers and stabilizes blood pressure levels • Stabilizes Cholesterol - the polyphenols in balsamic vinegar limits the ability of LDL cholesterol to oxidize • Steadies Blood Glucose Levels - Balsamic vinegar is low on the glycemic index and will not cause spikes in your blood glucose levels. These are a few benefits, but there are many more. Use when cooking, marinating or making a vinaigrette. Stop by the store if you are looking for inspiration.

Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars, distinctively selected from a premium collection of 50 plus estates – fused and naturally flavored. We are exhibiting selections to woo your palate ~ “Taster’s Choice”.

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Tackling Diabetes

The YMCA of Greater Richmond Implements New Programs

Are you at risk for diabetes? Chances are you might be. In the United States alone, 29.1 million people have diabetes and 86 million have prediabetes. Here in Virginia, research indicates about 1 in 7 adults has diabetes, and one out of every three who have it don’t know. These statistics are alarming, and the impact on the cost of health care and the overall well-being of our communities makes preventing the number of new cases of type 2 diabetes more important than ever before. The Y is a leading nonprofit improving the nation’s health. In communities across the country, the Y helps people achieve wellbeing, reduce their risk for chronic disease and reclaim their health. Here in Greater Richmond, the Y is on the forefront of preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes. Last year, the Y launched both the Diabetes Control Program and Diabetes Prevention Program. Both are part of the Y’s effort to stem the tide of the diabetes crisis that threatens the Richmond community. Already the Prevention Program is showing measurable results. Research by the National Institutes of Health has shown that programs like the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program reduce the number of new cases of diabetes by 58% overall and by 71% in individuals over age 60. Meanwhile, 69% of participants in the YMCA Diabetes Control Program lowered their HbA1c score resulting in

the reduction of prescription medications and therefore associated medical costs. The nation’s struggle with obesity and type 2 diabetes is no surprise but the number of people with prediabetes is a growing issue, especially when only a small percent realize they have the condition. Prediabetes is a condition in which individuals have blood glucose levels that are higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Often a preventable condition, people with prediabetes can reduce their risk for developing type 2 diabetes by adopting behavior changes that include eating healthier and increasing physical activity. People with prediabetes are at risk for not only developing type 2 diabetes, but also cardiovascular disease, stroke and other conditions. The Y is receiving widespread support for both programs. The YUSA – funded through the Centers for Disease Control supports the prevention program. Meanwhile, the diabetes control program is funded by a $97,000 grant through the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation. As a leading voice on improving the nation’s health and well-being, the YMCA of Greater Richmond encourages all adults to take control of their health. “Learning your risk for prediabetes and making lifestyles changes is easy to say, but oftentimes hard

to do” said Jana Smith, director of community health for the YMCA of Greater Richmond. “The good news is that you don’t have to do this alone – the Y can help a person get on the path to a healthier life.We have a program for people with type 2 diabetes and people with prediabetes. Both programs are facilitated in a small group, classroom setting to teach individuals how to incorporate healthier eating and moderate physical activity into their daily life.” It’s not just individuals who can benefit from the Y’s diabetes programs. The Y has options to

include it into a business’ Employee Wellness plan, lowering company costs. In fact, over eight percent of the U.S. workforce suffers from diabetes making it among the top 10 mostly costly physical health conditions for employers in both direct (hospitalizations, medical and outpatient care, etc.) and indirect costs (absenteeism, lost productivity at work, short-term disability, etc.). Financial assistance is available for both programs. To learn more, visit ymcarichmond.org/diabetes or stop by a Y near you and speak to a representative.

SOME BASIC LIFESTYLE CHANGES THAT CONTRIBUTE TO WEIGHT LOSS AND AN INCREASED FOCUS ON HEALTHY LIVING CAN DECREASE THE RISK FOR TYPE 2 DIABETES. AMONG THESE ARE: • EAT FRUITS AND VEGETABLES EVERY DAY. • CHOOSE FISH, LEAN MEATS AND POULTRY WITHOUT SKIN. • AIM FOR WHOLE GRAINS WITH EVERY MEAL. • BE MODERATELY ACTIVE AT LEAST 30 MINUTES PER DAY FIVE DAYS A WEEK. • CHOOSE WATER TO DRINK INSTEAD OF BEVERAGES WITH ADDED SUGAR. • SPEAK TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT YOUR DIABETES RISK FACTORS, ESPECIALLY IF YOU HAVE A FAMILY HISTORY OF THE DISEASE OR ARE OVERWEIGHT.

About The YMCA

The mission of the YMCA of Greater Richmond is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, strengthening the foundations of community is its cause. For 160 years, the YMCA of Greater Richmond has worked to uplift families and improve the quality of life across communities. Its commitment to not only promise, but deliver, lasting personal and social change is more important than ever. To be a part of the impact the Y makes every day, visit ymcarichmond.org.

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y Beatrice Miller B

Beatrice Miller is a Nikken Independent Consultant. She has been in the wellness industry for five years helping people create balance in their lives with natural solutions to energy, like nutrition.

Energy Drinks- Not All Created Equal

Are you relying on caffeine or popular energy drinks to get through your day? Are you concerned about the high sugar, high caffeine, and chemicals in those drinks? Do you experience the “jitters” with energy drinks?

minerals, amino acids and is nutritionally dense with a lot of nutrition packed into very few calories. Ten4 contains an extract made from all natural, whole fruit kiwi, with its active enzymes for digestive and immune system health..

7. Supports mental alertness and clarity

What if you could get a calm alertness for 6 hours with no chemicals & major health benefits?

B vitamins - (B6 and B12) are essential in preventing physical fatigue. These vitamins are not present in a vegetarian diet.

3. Nutrient-rich kiwi known for it’s nourishing vitamins and minerals

You can! Nikken has a healthy solution in their “Ten4” matcha green tea! “Wake up your body and mind the healthy way with Kenzen Ten4.” What is matcha green tea? Matcha green tea is the very highest tea grade - produced for more than 850 years and only in the Aichi region of Japan, using traditional growing and harvesting techniques. Available in limited quantity, matcha green tea is 100% organic, with a unique ability to stimulate mental alertness and assist the body in converting stored fat into energy. Kenzen Ten4 is made with real ingredients - including what is known as “nature’s own energy drink,” organic matcha green tea, and one of the most nutrientdense super fruits, New Zealand kiwi. Whether it’s 10 am or 4pm, you’ll experience up to 6 hours of energy, a feeling that supercharges you mentally and physically! Prepare to be exhilarated. New Zealand kiwi - called nature’s super fruit because it contains vitamins,

Chlorophyll - gives matcha tea its green color. Chlorophyll is a detoxifying agent that helps the body eliminate contaminants. Black, white and oolong tea extracts complement the matcha green tea and round out the taste and energy profile. Organic cane sugar- natural stevia extract and blueberry powder add a hint of sweetness that balances the tea blend. What’s not in Ten4 • No artificial flavors • No artificial colors • No artificial sweeteners • No artificial caffeine • No artificial preservatives • No gluten • No lactose • No wheat • No dairy • No GMO ingredients

6. Vitamins B6 and B12 for quick pickup 5. Antioxidants to help combat free radicals 4. Natural chlorophyll to support detoxifying

2. No artiﬁcial ﬂavors, sweeteners, color or preservatives 1. Only 25 calories Frequently Asked Questions How is Ten4 different from other energy drinks? Many other energy drinks are loaded with chemical additives, lots of sugar and stimulants that are not very good for overall health — such as taurine, ginseng and carnitine. Kenzen Ten4 has organic matcha green tea and kiwi instead of those chemicals and caffeine-substitute stimulants. . What’s in Ten4 that gives me energy? Ten4 has natural caffeine from organic matcha green tea, with an added boost from vitamins B6 and B12, and organic cane sugar.

9. Made with organic ingredients

How long does the energy last? Every person has a unique metabolism so the effect will vary. Some report that Ten4 gives them a feeling of increased energy that can last for up to six hours or more.

8. Helps burn calories and boost metabolism

Is the Ten4 formulation natural?

The Big Ten in Ten 4 10. Has 80 mg of smooth caffeine from organic matcha green tea

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Kenzen Ten4 is made with ingredients that are 90%organic. Wherever possible these are natural and derived from plant sources. The only exceptions are the few ingredients that are not available in a stable, organic form.

brewed coffee.

In cold weather I would like to drink Ten4 as a hot beverage. Is this all right? If you prefer, you can mix Ten4 with warm or hot water without compromising the energy you’ll feel when drinking it. And it tastes great!

Nikken the companyNIKKEN is a company that has been providing products that replicate the earth’s natural energies for 40 years. Nikken addresses the vital elements of life: sleep, water, air, nutrition, light and energy. The products provide an environment for our bodies to function optimally.

How much caffeine is in Ten4? Is this amount of caffeine bad for me? One serving of Kenzen Ten4 contains 80 milligrams of caffeine — less than the amount in eight ounces of

Why is Ten4 better than an energy drink in a can? Because when you make it, it’s fresh! With an energy drink in a can or bottle, you may be getting a lot of preservatives — and paying for water.

They created an energy drink that can make you feel good and feel good about drinking it!

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9 Annual Higher Ground Women’s Leadership Conference

On January 30, 2015, the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute (GEHLI) will host its Annual HIGHER Ground Women’s Leadership Conference. This one day event is a preview of the Institute’s HIGHER Ground Women’s Leadership Program designed to promote personal and professional growth through leader development, education, coaching and networking. Each year hundreds of women come together from across the state to share ideas, illuminate innovative practices, and explore factors that influence their effectiveness at work, at home, and in their communities. This conference provides a foundation of support and practical solutions for success through panel discussions, workshops, and seminars featuring keynote speakers of regional and national prominence. Embodying the transformational leadership legacy of the Institute’s name sake Grace Harris, many of the conference participants attend annually because of the profound impact it has on their lives. The conference continues to serve as a resource for women looking to grow both personal and professionally. Why should you join us? Because… …it’s educationally enriching! Leading this day is an extraordinary selection of successful women who show you how to ensure the emergence of your leadership qualities. Whether it’s at home, at work, or in your community, these sessions are packed with powerful techniques that add value to your life. …we are talking about what matters to you! If you’re not talking about what matters to women, why talk at all? Sessions highlight national and regional issues related to and affecting women personally and professionally. The conference

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provides women a forum to expand their conversations beyond board rooms and book clubs, and allows for the transfer of ideas between women from all walks of life.

the aha moment when you listened to a guest speak truth to your story;

…we are connecting you with who’s important… You! This one day event provides a space for you to learn from experts in fields which you have identified as important to your development. Whether you’re just starting in your career, refining your current role, or ready for your next venture, this event provides the much needed space for you to consider who you are as a woman. …we are building a network of women! WE are OUR greatest resource. The conference connects a diverse group of women from across the Commonwealth to share, learn and grow from one another. The conference provides an opportunity to connect with friends from past events and make new friends for future endeavors. … it’s fun! Leadership should be fun! It should be exciting! You’ll find that our coverage of core leadership topics is unique, fun and consistent with our style as a woman. So much of who we are as women is captured in the spirit of what we do. Our event provides you the chance to let your hair down, learn, and laugh.

• the moment of courage when your new sister friend shared her story with 50 of her newest friends; and • most importantly, remember you …. and do it all with GRACE! The 9th Annual HIGHER Ground Women’s Leadership Conference will be held: Friday, January 30, 2015 Richmond Marriott 500 East Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 To learn more about HIGHER Ground or to register for our conference please visit our website at www.vcu.edu/gehli. We still have a limited number of seats available. Get them before they are gone! Testimonials Higher Ground allowed me to feel empowered as a woman, mother, and business owner with a huge focus on self-awareness, selfmotivation, and self-growth. My interest in the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute, HIGHER Ground, was for the purpose of fine-tuning, growing, and learning how to be a better leader and servant. The experience itself provided me with the necessary tools and skills to become a servant leader. The wealth of knowledge

received at Higher Ground is a proud moment for me as I continue to move forward in my personal and professional growth and development. Sheena Lyle, CEO, Lyle Professional Consulting The Higher Ground annual conference is an event I count on attending every year. With sessions that both inspire and rejuvenate, it’s a place that nurtures and expands my professional self. The diverse background of the attendees makes it a great opportunity for many women in my network who I encourage to attend every year. I’m so grateful for the role the HIGHER Ground conference plays in our community and look forward to the event each year! Lisa Miles, Associate Director, Common Ground, University of Richmond What past participants are saying about the conference? Uplifting and positive Great opportunity to benefit from the experiences and perspectives of other women The diversity of the topics. WOW! I actually learned things that I know I will use Well organized, informative, motivational Consistently relevant topics that are practical Photos by Elizabeth Reese Photography LLC

And on Monday morning, after it’s all said and done, and you find yourself back in your space of normalcy, remember: • the new skill for achieving just the right equilibrium in life; • the new language about a topic on which you only had cursory knowledge;

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y Amy McVaugh B

Amy McVaugh, Studio Coordinator for Heather House Studio of Photography, ensures all orders are filled and meet strict quality control standards. Amy also fills in wherever needed at the studio from smoothing a client’s hair in the camera room to assisting with Marketing. Amy is also currently a student at John Tyler Community College and enrolled in the Photography and Film Specialization Program.

Photo Restoration In The Digital World

With today’s digital technology, there is new hope and endless possibilities in restoring heirloom photographs. Damage occurring from age, improper storage and even unfortunate mishaps can often be repaired. The secret to success is to contact a reputable, experienced image restorer, who not only guarantees optimum results of the enhanced, repaired image, but ensures the safety and integrity of your treasured original. Where do I begin? Most often, a skilled professional photographer is the logical starting point. However, be aware, not all photographers are properly trained in this field. Always ask what type of restoration experience the photographer has, how long have they been restoring, and if they utilize a variety of methods. Where does my original photograph go? It’s very brittle and I’m afraid it will fall apart! Does the professional do the restoration onsite? Whenever possible, utilize a professional who does their own work in their studio. This minimizes the risk of damages that can occur to old or worn photos during the shipping process. What type of damage can a restorer repair? Water stains, contrast correction,

Preserving Memories

someone states they can fix it, get a guarantee in writing first. I have a large heirloom portrait of my great-grandparents. It needs a little work, but my siblings and cousins would like a copy of the repaired image. Is this expensive? Once you have invested in the restoration process, copies are easily made from the finished image. Most reputable restorers charge a nominal fee for copies. If you need multiple copies, perhaps for a very large family, many photographers will work with the client to contain costs.

mold spots, discolorations and even tears can be corrected, using many modern techniques and processes. There is a hole in my picture and part of Uncle Hank is missing. Should I even bother trying? Yes! In the hands of a skilled professional, this seemingly impossible repair becomes possible by implementing a variety of techniques. If you still possess the torn section, bring this with you during the estimate phase. Not only will this make the restorer’s job easier, it saves you money by giving the restorer a real image to work from, instead of creating one.

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A skilled restorer will take time to provide a physical review of your photograph, meet with you and discuss a realistic expectation of what can and can’t be repaired. Most often, they will provide a free estimate, before they ever begin work.

One last word of advice Be proactive with your modern photos. Just like you, one day your grandchildren, great-grandchildren or nieces and nephews will hold your portrait in their hands, cherishing the connection. Do them a favor and invest in quality photography today. Not only will you look good, but the high quality products used by professional photographers will withstand the test of time, providing a quality history for generations to come.

I have a blurred image from the 1970’s. Can this be restored? No. “Once a bad picture, always a bad picture.” If an image was out of focus when the picture was taken, this cannot be corrected. If

Heather House Studio New location in Powhatan County 12 minutes west of rt 288 and rt 60 ( Midlothian Turnpike) 804 794 0017 www.heatherhousestudio.com

I don’t want to spend a lot of money for nothing. What if they can’t repair it? Restoration can vary greatly in price, depending on the extent of time required on the piece.

M Community Education C y Rachel J. Solomon B

Rachel J. Solomon is the Development & Communications Specialist at the YWCA of Richmond. She supports the YWCA’s media relations, fundraising efforts, web media and volunteer program. Prior to joining the YWCA team in June 2014, Ms. Solomon served as an AmeriCorps VISTA service member at Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia, Inc. (HOME), and as program director of WRIR-LP 97.3 FM Richmond Independent Radio. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology, with a minor in media studies from Virginia Commonwealth University. In her free time, Ms. Solomon volunteers on-air at WRIR and explores Richmond.

Empowering Children Who Witness Violence

Envision this: you are a third-grader, in the middle of math class and you are confused. Math is your favorite and best subject, but you cannot seem to concentrate. Mom seemed sad and scared this morning when she left for work. You did not notice her acting mean last night, but Dad seemed very angry. Your teacher calls on you to answer the problem on the board, and you snap back into focus. After admitting to your teacher that you were not paying attention, the room is filled with whispering and quiet laughter. You don’t feel comfortable at school anymore, but you are uncertain as to what might happen if you go home. You wonder: is there anywhere you can go that feels safe? Situations like this occur daily for children facing violence between adults in their home. Both men and women can perpetrate acts of domestic and intimate partner violence to partners of all different races, sexual orientations, nationalities and gender identities. A pattern of violence at home creates trauma even more far reaching than the issue between the abuser and perpetrator. Violence between partners creates a significant second-hand impact on the child as well. Domestic violence is a community problem, and it is also a family problem. A 2003 study from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics indicates that annually, 15.5 million children in the U.S. are exposed to at least one incident of partner violence at home.1 A 2006 UNICEF study estimates that annually, 275 million children worldwide will witness violence at home.2 The most recent National Census of Domestic Violence Services was taken in September 2010. Census results revealed alarming rates of reported domestic violence in Chesterfield County, and confirmed

that hundreds of children were impacted by violence at home. In 2010, Chesterfield Police received 9,048 domestic related calls, and the Chesterfield County Domestic and Sexual Violence Resource Center provided direct services to 514 survivors, which, in-turn impacted 531 children living with violence at home. But how can we know, on an individual basis, that a child has witnessed violence in their household? According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, young children witnessing partner violence at home may demonstrate increased anxiety or aggression, depression, sleep problems, appetite changes and behavioral problems.4 Adolescents exposed to violence at home have shown a higher tendency toward risk behaviors, difficulties at school, drug and/or alcohol abuse and aggressive behavior. Witnessing violence at home may also limit a teen’s basis for understanding the elements of a healthy relationship, putting him or her at a higher risk of staying in abusive relationships later in life, or becoming a perpetrator of partner violence themselves. The YWCA of Richmond holds workshops to educate middle and high school students about healthy relationships in its Teen Dating Violence Prevention program (www. ywcarichmond.org/teendating). Chesterfield County Government offers a reporting program to empower older children facing troubling at-home situations. The Chesterfield Adolescent Reporting Program (www.chesterfield.gov/ carp) is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at (804) 748-1612. The YWCA works to approach the problem of domestic violence at a family level. Children from all family environments are given the

foundation to excel at school at our accredited Child Development Center. Specially trained, traumainformed YWCA volunteers (www. ywcarichmond.org/volunteer) provide free childcare for the kids of men and women in our counseling services. The YWCA suggests taking a “start by believing” approach with both survivors and children sharing reports of domestic, sexual or intimate partner violence. If a child shares his or her fears with you, or you notice warning signs, believe him or her and consult an experienced, confidential party, like a YWCA staff member or police officer for next steps. If you are ever faced with a situation and need advice, if you or a loved one are experiencing domestic violence, or would like to learn more about resources in Chesterfield, you may call the Greater Richmond Regional Hotline at (804) 612-6126. By supporting, educating, and believing in our children, together, we can empower the families of the Chesterfield and Richmond regions to eradicate the cycle of violence. To learn more about the YWCA of Richmond and its programs to empower women, children and their families, you may visit www. ywcarichmond.org. 1. Bureau of Justice Statistics Crime Data Brief, Intimate Partner Violence, 1993-2001, February 2003 2. UNICEF, Behind Closed Doors, 2006. 3. National Census of Domestic Violence Services, September 15, 2010. 4. AACAP, Helping Children Exposed to Violence, April 2013.

The YWCA of Richmond is a 127-year-strong nonprofit organization committed to the empowering women, children, and their families to live their best lives. The YWCA strengthens our community through its nationally-

accredited early childhood education programming, as well as free counseling, case management and emergency housing services for victims of sexual assault, domestic violence and intimate partner violence. The YWCA offers programming to empower women of all ages in Richmond, one of which is the annual Outstanding Women Awards, a ceremony to honor influential female leaders making an impact in our community. The honorees at this year’s Outstanding Women Awards are: Arts: Ana Ines King Business: Marilyn West Education: Genene LeRosen Health & Science: Melissa Byrne Nelson Human Relations & Faith in Action: Susan Brown Davis Law & Government: Mary E. Langer Nonprofit Management: Kathy Glazer Volunteerism: Judy Anderson To learn more about three of this year’s exceptional honorees, turn to the Women in Profile section on pages 4-5. The 35th Annual Outstanding Women Awards will be held on April 24, 2015 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Ticket sales for this exciting event benefit the YWCA of Richmond. To learn more about the Outstanding Women Awards, visit www.ywcarichmond.org/owa. Tickets are available online at www. ywcarichmond.org/owatix. The information on the event will be on the inside back cover, page 35.

804-612-6126

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2015 You... w Year, New

START A JOURNAL. REFLECT. REVIEW. RENEW. Write and share private thoughts daily, weekly or monthly. Include goals with timetable and completion date(s) for each goal and task included. Be accountable YOU! Review regularly the things you hope to accomplish this year.

NO DIETING THIS YEAR. Commit to a healthy heart diet including information, planning and exercise for a lifetime of heart smart living. Incorporate exercise. Feel better. Shed pounds. Go to American Heart Association.com for recipes, information and inspiration.

MAKE $ENSE FOR CENT$.

LEARN TO DO MORE WITH LESS.

Hire a professional Financial Planner to assist with your portfolio for growth THIS YEAR!!!! Already have a great professional to manage and assist with your portfolio??? Review and research options for growth opportunities.

Give away 5 - 10 unused items from your house, closet or office every month of the year 2013. At the end of the year your will have purged over 100 items that you didn’t use anyway. Not only will you de clutter, BUT, the process of cleaning out and getting rid of things, opens up space and room for all that is new and wonderful in your life TODAY!

TIP: Make sure your investment portfolio has exposure to emerging markets. One of the best performing emerging markets over the last 10 years according to Morning star is Delaware Emerging Market fund (DEMAX) Check it out!

SHOP WISELY! Retailers offer deep discounts at particular times of the year. Research the best time of year to make purchases and save money.

Consider joining an on line dating site for companionship. Who knows, it may lead you to the chapel and many years of bliss.

Organize papers and your time to be more effective and efficient at work and at play.

DIGITIZE YOUR FILES.

PROTECT AND SECURE. To protect your servers and networked hardware, invest in some sort of corporate level malware software. Know that one of your most valuable possessions is your data base. Especially if you own a business, it is imperative that you protect your customer’s credit cards used.

Save a tree and scan your files. Recipes, personal information, marketing materials, etc. using the Fujitsu ScanSnap. Save data to the cloud. Data will be at your finger tips; always, a key stroke away.

CHECK YOUR CREDIT SCORE ANNUALLY. It’s Free!

PRAY DAILY!

Have an Attitude of Gratitude. Believe. Become. Be. Have a Bountiful 2015 2013Year! Year!

BACK IT UP – ASAP! Don’t leave your business and personal files at risk. Invest in a good night’s sleep and peace of mind. Cloud – based storage services including Drop box or Sugar sync are a must!

MAINTAIN IMPECCABLE INTEGRITY. The truth matters. Do the right thing always, maintain a sense of pride and lead with honor based on principles.

www.RVAWomensJournal.com Educate • Empower • Inspire • Inform

CONNECT. GO SOCIAL

Join one or more - Twitter. Facebook. Linked In. No longer a fad, they are here to stay.

GET ORGANIZED.

❤

THE “L” WORD, ALL ABOUT FINDING LOVE.

CASH IT OUT! Use more cash, less credit whenever possible. Using cash will help you think more strategically about spending once you commit to living a debt free credit card life.

u ky ffoorr aa L Luccky

HEALTH

VOLUNTEER. Position yourself to help somebody this year. Join a not profit board. Raise money for a favorite charity. Donate time and items unused to a shelter for battered women. Take books unused to the library in your hometown. Rock an ill baby at the hospital. Read a book to a child in your local school. Do something that makes you feel good… and see what a difference ONE person can make.

2015 WORK

TECH

EXPECT TO WIN!

Take a course, hire a coach, go back to school. Empower you! Reclaim yourself worth daily with affirmations and recommit to you – DAILY!

GET MOVING AT LAST 30 MINUTES A DAY! Exercise. Play tennis. Run. Go on a hike. Take a Walk. Swim. Dance. Jump. Pump it Up. Punch it out at a Boxing class. Let it flow – join a yoga community. Experience the power of pilates. Wrestle. Beach it up with a volleyball. Cycle.

REVIEW STATEMENTS MONTHLY. Before paying bills, review each statement. YES!!! Mistakes occur. Don’t let mistakes of others become your problem. To best prevent errors, review each financial statement, monthly bills, etc. routinely. Always question and discuss with customer service representatives additional costs or hidden fees that “just appear.” If amount(s) stated not what you committed to, take a stand. Gather your facts. Inquire and be prepared to exercise your rights as a consumer.

CHANGE. Be about moving forward.

READ A BOOK. In a world of technology and gadgets, take time to read a book for your personal and/or professional development. Let the time away from the hustle bustle in the world take you away – READ. Learn. Stretch your mind.

Januar y/Febru a r y 2 0 1 3 | LOU D OU N WOMA N MAGA Z I N E

January/Febru a r y 2 0 1 5 | L OU D OU N WOMA N MA GA Z I N E

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y By Barbara P.G. Williams B Co-owner of Belak Flowers

Wedding Day Themes

Wedding themes and styles seem to occur in cycles. What once may have been considered a “country” theme is now called rustic. What was once thought of as an “old fashioned” wedding is now called vintage. And no matter what style a bride chooses, there are multitudes of flowers of every description color, shape and size - that can complete any look and carry out any theme. Since Pinterest became a “household word” it is a valuable resource for brides as a means to factor in the many components of the wedding planning process. In the floral category alone, a bride may have already perused the endless possibilities on Pinterest and narrowed her choices down to the top three which most successfully fulfill her vision. When she ultimately sits down with her florist some of the basic decisions have been made and need only to be fine-tuned. Flower choices that have made a huge comeback in recent years are football mums, carnations and babies breath. All of these make good financial sense in that they are available all year around. As for carnations, they come in an extensive array of colors, hold up in all temperatures and are affordably priced. Football mums are a great choice for their size as they can take up as much space in a bouquet or arrangement as four roses. Babies breath is a year-round crop, imported from South America, that is hardy and versatile and again, popular! On every girl’s wedding day there is really just a brief moment when all eyes are on the bride; that is when she is walking down the aisle and for that moment her bouquet is one of the accessories that are in the spotlight. What she carries needs to have some amount of visual impact, yet not detract

There is no longer such a thing as a standard choice. Vases, vessels and containers that fit a rustic or vintage themed wedding reception are often wooden or galvanized. One of the most popular “comeback” items is the Mason Jar which can be found in a variety of colors, as well as clear, to compliment any floral composition. Milk glass, carnival glass and crockery items found in thrift shops and at yard sales by today’s savvy, thrifty brides ensure that the atmosphere at the reception is one-of-a-kind. from the bride herself, and it is likely that it will include some quality of sentimentality. Brides often accomplish this by having the flower stems wrapped in a piece of fabric that was once part of her mother’s or her grandmother’s wedding attire and might be a sleeve or a section of the hem or part of the veil. A lace or linen handkerchief is another sentimental item from a grandfather or godparent that can be used to wrap the flower stems. In an old-fashioned [pardon, I mean, vintage] wedding a degree of nostalgia is always part of the theme. Other items that brides have chosen to include with their bouquets are pieces of jewelry such as a special locket or a favorite rosary that can be interlaced among the flower stems. Each of these choices helps to fulfill the well known wedding day saying - Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.

Even though a wedding day is one of Life’s most special occasions it is often necessary to make economic choices. It can be costly to adorn a large wedding party and a banquet hall of any size with flowers. So even when a bride looks to the past for a wedding style she is completely up-to-date when she

takes advantage of suggestions on Pinterest. Planning to let some floral arrangements do double duty can be a money-saver. The ceremony flowers that traditionally are only used for 30 - 60 minutes can be transported to the reception site and used to flank the bandstand or be set onto a couple of the serving tables, the bar or the gift table. When a bride has chosen to adorn the pew aisles with pomander balls, these can easily be brought to the reception and placed on glass cubes to become centerpieces. Wedding planning is a joint venture that includes the best and the latest ideas of several people. The florist helps to make the bride’s vision a reality, and as the past meets the present, Pinterest is now a welcome assistant.

When a bride is confronted with the enormous selection of containers and vessels for centerpieces, serving table arrangements and accessory pieces, a decision may seem daunting. Again, Pinterest categorizes the many possibilities making it easier for a bride to visualize the finished product before her wedding day.

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y Edward Stein B amond Blues - If It’s Too Good to Be True . . .

took the diamond to have the ring appraised o be e”, well by the G.I.A they found out the diamond was nstinct in fact a J color SI2 clarity. That discovery would amount to a HUGE difference in price and een by Edward Stein Diamonds are priced certificates. based on the 4 d it I’ve been quality. conned before, and it International It said took the diamond to have the ring appraised If the deal seems to be stinks. Aside the fact that that the diamond was G color and C’s (see our grading chart SKjewelers.com). thereally fact legitimate looking out certifications Lastwas week, I saw an ad on Face you feel a bit helpless and dealing customer bypaid thea G.I.A they found the diamond “too good toVS2 beClarity. true”,Thewell like EGL or IGI or AGL, however Book that advertized Ray Ban® with loss of money and the time price for a G color VS2 are clarity that The problem is that some retail stores getting elpless in retail fact a J color SI2certification clarity. That discovery would for $35.00-- 1 day only! chances are your instinct the only company that Sunglasses spent dealing with a horrible was cheaper than the other badstart certificates so canselling say to “Hey looktoisaconsistently loss of you recognized around thought, “Wow $35.00, when they situation to lose in theystore theyou, same stone. When amount HUGE difference in price Iand is faith correct. I’ve been the world is the GIA. No I don’t normally cost $120.00 on average!” around It’s the same to thislure customer took hasyou. a certificate” you in the to diamond believe, it methe world it quality. Diamonds are priced based on the 4 conned before, and it work for GIA and no the GIA is not Of course I bought them and of thing when buying a diamond and to have the ring appraised by the Kingston Jewelers uses outside payingStuart me to write this article. If courseanthey turnedindependent out to be fake, bebought what the certificate says!” what you was G.I.A they found out the diamond withfinding a outmust grading chart SKjewelers.com). really stinks. Aside the fact C’s (see our professional GIA gemmological appraisal services tobut ensure you do any research or understand nice glasses for $35.00, not Ray not what it was represented to be. was in fact a J color SI2 clarity. n you your investment in diamonds and precious gems are the diamond trade business at all, Bans® even though they say Ray The problem is that some retail stores are getting that you ais,bit helpless It’s wrong So and now its corrupt and it feelThat discovery to the question how dowould youamount protect graded with special care and accuracy. See below GIA will be the one certifying body Ban® on the glass. So when a deal a HUGE difference in price and h ininfuriates the me. We buy diamonds bad and certificates so they say toagree you,is “Hey look andpeople dealing with loss of that most, if not all experts seems too good to bewhen true…..well some ofcan the characteristics that are examined from making a bad investment frequentlyyourself and many times quality. Diamonds are priced based the most qualified to grade stones. you know the answer. It’scome thein with certificatesmoney grading a diamond (Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat Weight) of the 4time C’s (see our chart itaand has a certificate” to lure you in to believe, it andon the actually know what you are buying is true authenticity or appraisals of the information on grading diamonds). Stuart Kingston Je d findStein continues in the spent dealing with a Edward be what the certificate says!” diamond and the paper says one The problem is that somemust retail quality diamond? Many times stores’ will have professional GIA gem family business founded by his thing but the Stein diamond is something situation stores are getting bad certificates it was horrible you your investment in d in Maurice grandfather, certificates that go along with the So look nowit the question is, how do you protect different. so they can say to you,diamond “Hey Jewelers Stuart Kingston 1930. completely graded with special start to lose faith in the ts hasCertified s located on Pennsylvania some of the characte yourself from making a bad investment and from an independent Gemologist vs. When buyingDE. a diamond from Avenue,Wilmington, world around you. It’s the grading a diamond ( amonds a jeweler aother questionstores that people So now the question is, how do actually know what you are buying is a true that offer their own certificates, ask is, “Why buying does it costa diamond you protect ame thing when andyourself find- from making me inalways quality diamond? Many times stores’ will have which is a conflict ofa bad interest or and in layman’s one price here and another price investment actually ng out whatelse?” you Ibought what was somewhere mean if wewas are not know whatit you are buying is a raisals certificates that go along with the diamond terms, aapples huge no-no!trueYou might seeMany legitimate comparing apples to why quality diamond? times epresented to be. It’s wrong and its thing, not the same price? The problem stores’ have or certificates go an independent Certified Gemologist vs. looking certifications likewillEGL IGIfrom orthat AGL, corrupt and it infuriates me. 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If certifications like EGL or IGI or AGL, “Why but the diamond grade is something you do any research or understand thehowever diamondthe only certification company that r price completely different. consistently recognized around the world is trade business at all, GIA will be is the one paring the GIA. No I don’t work for GIA and no the When buying a diamond from a jeweler the ce? The certifying body that most, if not all experts GIA is not paying me to write this article. If one question that people always ask is, “Why agree is the most qualified to grade stones. and you do any research or understand the diamond does it cost one price here and another price with week, I saw anare adcomparing on Face Book trade that business at all, GIA will be the one omewhereLast else?” I mean if we ently advertized Raythe Ban® $35.00— body that most, if not all experts apples to apples why not sameSunglasses price? Theforcertifying welry dayone only! I thought, “Wowand $35.00, when agree is the most qualified to grade stones. problem is 1that place has an apple GL they has normally costtomato $120.00with on average!” Of another place a rotten Last week, I saw an ad on Face Book that he a certificatecourse that says it’s an apple. Recently I bought them and of course they turned out advertized Ray Ban® Sunglasses for $35.00— The here was an about afor jewelry to article be fake,written nice glasses $35.00, but not only! Ray I thought, “Wow $35.00, when 1 day Stuart Kingston uses outside independent GIA Gemological services to clarity tore thatyour was selling with EGL Bans® even thoughorthey say Ray on the ensure investment indiamonds diamonds precious gems are Ban® graded with they normally cost $120.00 on average!” Of store special care and accuracy. See more information ontoo how good diamonds are nternational certificates. Itasaid that the glass. 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Prevent The DiamondBlues Blues- If - If It’s Too Prevent the Diamond It’s Too Good to

Good To Be True…

Who would benefit from eyelash extensions? • Busy Moms, as a great time-saver • The Vogue Teen, for her prom and graduation • The Blushing Bride and bridal party, for a joyful celebration • The Business Professional, for a polished image • The Mature Retiree, to bring back the lashes of her youth • The 20-Something, for a glamorous night on the town • The Fitness Enthusiast, for looking great while working hard • The Natural Blond, for dark, dramatic lashes

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y By Melisa A. Ferriola, CPCP, LE B

Enjoy The Freedom Of Eyelash Extensions For Your Honeymoon!

Your Wedding Day is THE day! You plan and prepare everything from the venue to the visitor’s book. And the next day you shed the elegance and rush to the airport for a romantic get-away. Why not take some elegance with you? No, not your gown! Your eyelashes! Eyelash Extensions will give you that flirty, glamourous look you had on your big day and last throughout your honeymoon. The extensions themselves are perfectly polished polyester points that come in a variety of thicknesses, colors and degrees of curl. Extensions are applied one lash at a time with care and precision using special bonding agents for a completely natural look. The result is thicker, longer eyelashes that are safe in the shower, while swimming, sleeping or exercising. Perfect for all your honeymoon plans! While making your hair, nail and makeup plans for your big day, consider eyelash extensions. Just as you wouldn’t wear press-on nails for your wedding day, why would you use strip lashes on this most important day. False eyelashes look fake, are hard to apply and may disastrously fall off at the most inopportune moment! The solution will not only last you through your special day, but will go with you on your entire honeymoon! Eyelash Extensions.

And don’t forget the rest of your bridal party and the special Moms. Each “lashscape” is designed specifically the individual – suiting facial features, lifestyle and the occasion. The right combination of length, thickness and curl is needed to achieve a custom look. The Bride may seek a dramatic look, but the bridal Moms may want lashes that restore a youthful vibrancy without looking overdone. And shouldn’t the entire bridal party look their best - each deserves custom, waterproof lashes for the big day.

Before

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Returning from the honeymoon, you may find you want to have the convenience of lashes all the time. Your natural lash turns over every 60 to 90 days and a new extension is applied to keep your lavish look fresh. These one hour Refining Applications are recommended every 2 to 4 weeks. So when you return from the honeymoon, schedule your refining application and continue your fabulous look. Whether you want lashes for your wedding day and honeymoon, or an every-day look to restore lashes of your youth, Lasting Looks has the professional, perfected technique, applied by a licensed, certified and experienced Eyelash Extension Specialist. Safe and affordable, trust your eyes to Lasting Looks! www. LastingLooksForYou.com

We would love to see your local permanent cosmetics article and ad here. Call us today at The Chesterfield County Women’s Journal at 888 213 0612 or email chesterfieldwoman@gmail.com

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College Graduates Unemployed! Now What?

M Business Financial C

You just joined the ranks of 4.5 Million recent college graduates that now realize they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a job in their chosen area of professional study, and if you do have a job, you are most likely receiving 30% of the pay you thought you would be earning. We have the answer. Do you want to make $100,000 plus this next year in your county - in your state?

Bypassing The Corporate Ladder

I was lucky enough to grow up in a well educated, affluent family that had the ability to afford me every opportunity parents could want for their child. I went to a prestigious private school, participated in sports, and extracurricular activates. I had great friends and managed to stick to the principles my parents had brought me up to believe in, such as; hard work, honesty, integrity, and self sufficiency - effectively keeping me out of harmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way. When it was time to go to college, I was happy to go. I had been accepted into a prestigious school in Boston that I was excited about, and felt that it was time to stand on my own two feet and start carving my own way in the world. College accomplished for me what any realistic expectations could hope for: The ability to think analytically and express myself appropriately. However, the reason I chose my school, and the reason most people I know went to college, was not for these rather humble aspirations. I was career focused and wanted college to be my ticket into a world of opportunity. What I found was my analytical mind saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have got a $120,000 education. What now, hot shot?â&#x20AC;? Although I had a good experience at college, I was not an academic at heart and knew that spending another $100,000 for post grad was not for me unless absolutely necessary. Of course it was time to get a job, but where? I started contacting all the advertising companies I had been studying over the past four years and managed to land a handful of interviews. It became quite clear that nobody was hiring, and that the whole industry was slow enough to grant interviews as a way of distracting themselves from the fact that they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have enough work to do either. The offers I did get would have given â&#x20AC;&#x153;education investmentâ&#x20AC;? a return in about 6 years as long as I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to pay rent or eat. We all have to start somewhere, but I refused to believe that my value to the professional world was within $5.00 of minimum wage, after I had just spent over $120,000.00 for a great education. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not what you know, but who you know,â&#x20AC;? and that was certainly true with me. My fiancĂŠeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mom had

y Luke Kennedy B

worked for a guy named Bob who had to start my own business. It was all very There are great perks being a paper started a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focused educational fast, scary and exciting, and before I owner, but it is certainly not all fun and newspaper over 31 years ago, and he knew it, I was scheduled to print my games. It is real work, and business. was talking to Heather and her mom first â&#x20AC;&#x153;sampleâ&#x20AC;? run of newspapers back Still, any job worth having is hard about starting a paper in Boston, in Boston. I followed my training to work, and more to the point, most jobs, where we had just graduated. Her the T, called local contributors and even the ones not worth having - are mom told him our position and soon scheduled appointments to meet with hard work, too. I loved what I did with YouI just the the ranks of 4.5 Million college graduates that proven now relize have aand job Iinfelt your chosen area enough wasjoined meeting President of recent professionals in industries to you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the paper, confident in calling theofCounty Woman Newspapers. He professional study, and if you do have a have job you are most receiving 30% of the pay you athought would be only hired2at. strong tracklikely records with our myself successyou when I was had trained over 370 women across format. By the time the first issue years out of college. I was lucky to WE HAVE THE ANSWER. Read thewasfollowingâ&#x20AC;Ś the country to publish the format he printed, we had $24,000 in advertising know Bob, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no way around it. But invented andwant told meto that fear was$100,000 sales. 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College Graduates Unemployed! Now What?

Bypassing the Corporate Ladder

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Change Your Life in 2014 Licenses Available In Your Area Woman Publishing Entrepreneurs Wanted ... Join over 371 other counties that are publishing or have an option to publish in the United States and BE YOUR OWN BOSS! We are looking for a few bright, energetic, creative women and men to publish our trademarked, copyrighted newspapers IN YOUR COUNTY, IN YOUR STATE, IN YOUR OWN BUSINESS! Join the fastest growing educational Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Newspaper syndicated in the United States. MINIMAL INVESTMENT REQUIRED! Maximum return ... Be your own boss, set your own hours and make your life mean more! ALL TRAINING PROVIDED! If you are interested in developing with us in 2014 in your STATE, in your COUNTY ...

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M Dining Entertainment C

y Adam Kline B

Adam started his restaurant career at age 15 in establishments in Southern New Jersey. After moving to North Carolina in 1988, he gained the knowledge and experience to become a manager at some of Greensboro’s finest restaurants.

Cork Myth

The myth we are looking into states that a bottle of wine with a screw cap has to be inferior to one stopped with a traditional cork. The truth? Unless you plan to age your bottle for decades, the only thing a cork guarantees is a onein-twelve chance of your bottle being“corked.” It also guarantees a 100% chance you’ll need a cork screw on hand to open it easily. For me this is not a problem, since I wait tables, I always carry my wine key at all times. For the rest of the world, corked wines can become inconvenient. While many of us cherish the mystique of popping a wine cork, screw caps are becoming more commonplace in the wine industry. Half a century ago, screw caps were associated with cheap wine, but now they have replaced corks at many of the world’s best wineries and in their premium wines. Wine bottles can be sealed in primarily three ways: screw caps, synthetic corks or natural corks. Each have their advantages and disadvantages. All three, even more so, have their advocates and adversaries. While synthetic corks never took hold in the industry, screw caps are more frequently being studied for their quality and effectiveness.

A bottle sealed with a cap, or even a synthetic stopper ensures your wine will not be contaminated with TCA, a musty by-product of the process many wineries use to keep things sterile. While drinking a bottle contaminated with TCA will not make you ill, it will offer a musty bouquet of wet cardboard, or just taste “off.” Wine presenting this unfortunate condition is said to be “corked” or have “cork taint.” Does this mean you should avoid all wines with a cork enclosure? Absolutely not. Many great wineries have not yet made the transition to screw cap enclosures for various reasons, the most common being they’re concerned their wine will be perceived as cheap. Tim Donahue— enology instructor at Walla Walla Community College, Enology and Viticulture—strongly disagrees with cork usage. “Winemakers will spend years on site selection, soil amendments, clonal selection,

canopy design and spray programs,” he says, adding, “They will monitor water stress, leaf pull, fruit thin, measure phenolic data… use a 100% sterile bottling line and bottles, and then, just for the hell of it, shove an old piece of tree bark in the neck of the bottle and hope everything works out.” The fact is, 92% of the time it does work out, and for the one-in-twelve chance it doesn’t, write it off as being “lucky” enough to finally know what a bad bottle smells like. Think about this financially. If 8% of wine stopped with natural corks goes bad, how much money is lost overall. On average, 31 billion bottles of wine are bought and sold every year worldwide. That’s right, billion with a B. Screw caps have a success rate around 99.99% for keeping wine untainted. I might be hard for the traditionalist, but I think this factor will eventually

overtake the wine-making industry. The almighty dollar wins again. Are We Running Out Of Cork The truth is, there is not a cork shortage. It is a matter of costs. Since cork requires a lot of age and time, it is expensive to produce cork and results in a higher price point. The reason we see more aluminum twist off caps and plastic cork is simply because of cheaper costs. Plenty of cork has been harvested and trees are plentiful. The problem comes down to these new materials being chosen over cork, which has been a hard hit to the the cork industry. Farmers who have been in the business for generations are suddenly now beginning to struggle financially. From this, the belief of a cork shortage has created one. Cork has become an endangered material as the world’s wine suppliers turn to cheaper materials for their bottling needs.

Pros and Cons

Natural Corks: -Not all natural corks are alike, resulting in variable cork properties -Higher chance of “corked” wine -Some claim that the source of natural cork is dwindling -Traditionalist believe “real” corks allow healthy gas flow for flavorful wine Synthetic Corks: -Considered expensive and unpopular with customers -They seem more often difficult to remove from the bottle -Many let too much air into the wine bottle by mistake Screw caps: -Less chance that wine will be “corked,” creating much fewer tainted wines -Much more cost effective, but loss of traditional rituals -Some say that air-tight screw caps are suffocating the wines

www.RVAWomensJournal.com

The Chesterfield

Women’s Journal

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This is what our advertisers say about the Women’s Journals: This is your “Bangs or No Bangs’ hairdresser Rhett Costello. It seems my last month’s article was a success, and I am glad because I spent a considerable amount of time on it. This month, I have less time and I’ll tell you why, “Chesterfield Women’s Journal enthusiasts; after only two or three days of distribution of the magazine, I began getting lots of new customers! I have a long standing custom of asking new guests how they heard about me. In the past their replies would invariably be something to do with a friend referring them. That worked for thirty years, but if you have experienced anything similar to what has happened to my business over the last five years, you know it’s been slow, slow, slow. All that is changing and quickly. When I ask that same question now, the most common answer is I read your article in the “Chesterfield Women’s Journal.” Now I’m not talking a few new gals, I have been busy, busy, busy! Yes, my publisher asked me to write this testimonial and I gladly said “Yes,” because nothing has ever boosted my Chesterfield salon like the Woman’s Journal! I highly recommend it! - Rhett Costello, Rhett’s - The Original Pin-up Salon

I am so grateful for the press LINC received through Chesterfield Women’s Journal. I was featured in the December 2013 issue in an article highlighting LINC’s work to provide cancer patients with wills, powers of attorney, advanced medical directives and other life planning services. The day after the publication was distributed, I was contacted by an attorney in the community who had read about LINC’s services and was inspired to give back. We were able to add the new attorney to our network and she took on representation of one of our clients the very same day. The attorney has pledged to help LINC going forward and has expressed an interest in helping with future LINC wills clinics. Thanks to the Chesterfield Women’s Journal we are serving more cancer patients in need in the local area. Thank you! - Crista Whitman, LINC “I must admit, I was a little skeptical, but I have not been disappointed in the least. The investment I’ve made in advertising with the Chesterfield Women’s Journal has paid off in a major way. My new clients have utilized my services for book manuscript editing, proofreading of business correspondence, college essay editing and more. If you’re interested in expanding your client base (and who isn’t?), it would be a mistake to miss the opportunity to reach out to the journal’s intelligent readership by educating them in your area of expertise. I intend to maintain my business’ presence in the journal for as long as it’s in publication. The journal is awesome!” - Tiffany Snyder,

Did you know? Women’s Buying Power • • • • • • • • • •

94% Home Furnishings 93% OTC Pharmaceuticals 93% Food 92% Vacations 91% of New Homes 89% Bank Accounts 85% Auto Purchases 81% Riding Lawn Mowers 80% Healthcare 66% PCs

Copy Editor, The Polished Edit

M C

Women account for 85% of all consumer purchases. • Women carry 76 million credit cards, 8 million more than men. • In 2001, U.S. women’s purchasing power constituted the number 3 market in the world; the collective buying power exceeded the entire economy of Japan. • By 2010, women are expected to control $1 trillion, or 60% of the country’s wealth, according to research conducted by Business Week and Gallup. (Sources: The Business and Professional Women’s Foundation, Trendsight, Business Women’s)

www.RVAWomensJournal.com

3434

M Community Education C

WHAT

The Outstanding Women Awards is an annual celebration hosted by the YWCA of Richmond to honor female leaders who empower our community.

WHEN

Friday, April 24, 2015 12:00 p.m.

WHERE

Greater Richmond Convention Center 403 North 3rd St, Richmond, VA 23219

HOW

Tickets are available online now for the Outstanding Women Awards luncheon. ď&#x20AC;˘ Visit www.ywcarichmond.org/owatix to learn more. All ticket sales for this event benefit the YWCA of Richmond. To learn more about the 35th Annual Outstanding Women Awards, visit www.ywcarichmond.org/owa.

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Senior Portraits With Distinction 804 794 0017