CKW-The Chea K. Woolfolk Oct/Nov Issue Edition 3 by CKW-The Chea K. Woolfolk Magazine

EXTRA EXTRA! COUGHING? SICK ETIQUETTE AT WORK

THE POWER OF IMAGES

BLACK MEN ARE POWER: A FOCUS ON IMAGERY AND THE STRUGGLE OF BEING A BLACK MAN IN AMERICA.

WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT? HAVE A BIG BREAKFAST!

Oct-Nov 2017

ORGANIC PRODUCE BECOMES MAINSTREAM

Health, Beauty & Fashion 13

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3 ACTIVITES TO HELP YOU MOVE SAFELY AFTER KNEE SURGERY 5 TIPS TO MAKE SURE YOUR TEENAGER WITH DIABETIES IS READY FOR COLLEGE A MOTHER’S LOSS SHDSLIGHT O NEED FOR BETTER

ASTHMA CARE

DIABETIES IMPACTS YOUNGER PEOPLE MORE OFTEN:

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EXTRA EXTRA! COUGHING? SICK ETIQUETTE AT WORK ARE YOU AT RISK? HOW TO TELL IF SOMEONE NEEDS INPATIENT DRUG TREATMENT MILLENNIALS PREFER HEALTHY HABITS: LESS LIKELY

39 43

TO CHOOSE OPIODS TO MANAGAE PAIN THE DIFFERENT FACES OF TUBERCULOSIS THE KEYS TO PERSONALIZED VITAMINS

SPOTLIGHT THE SUPPORT TOUR 2017

GIFTED BY DESIGN

GAY’S PSA

KIM’S VOICE

THE POWER OF IMAGES OWN YOUR IMAGE JAMIES CHAIR HEALING WITHIN

67 70 74

JC&ME

BLACK MEN ARE POWER! A FOCUS ON IMAGERY AND

THE STRUGGLE OF BEING A BLACK MAN IN AMERICA.

It was a woman's bedroom, actually a boudoir, and no man belonged in it except by invitation. Kathleen Winsor

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

IS YOUR HEARING LOSS?

FOOD & BEVERAGE 3 THINGS YOU LL NEED TO TROW THE ULITMATE TAILGAING PARTY 5 TIPS TO MAKE FAMILY MEALTIMES MORE MINDFUL 5 STEPS TO BE OMING A TRUE PITMASTER 7 WAYS TO SNA K LIKE A PRO THIS FOOTBALL SEASON A ELEBRITY HEF S SE RETS TO BUILDING A BETTER SANDWHI H MANGOS BRING FAMILIES TOGETHERR AROUND THE WORLD ORGANI PRODU E BE OMES MAINSTREAM WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT? HAVE A BIG BREAKFAST! PRA TI AL MEETS FRESH HERBS

106 111 115 122 125 129 133 136 141

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FAMILY & LIFESTYLE ALLOW TO BUILD HEALTHY HABITS FOR THE S HOOL YEAR AND BEYOND 5 TIPS TO SOLVE SERPERATION ANXIETY IN YOUR PET 5 WAYS TO EXPLORE THE “FINAL FRONTIER” ON FLORIDAS SPA E OAST 5 WAYS TO RE-ENGAGE HIHG S HOOL DROPOUTS 6 SIMPLE SEPS TO AVOID DISTRA TE DRIVING RUN HING DOLLARS AND PLANNING WEDDING FRSTRATED WHLE FLYING? GET REATIVE IN PARADISE HOUSEWORK MAY BE KEY TO IMPROVING YOUR RELATIONSHIP MY EXERIEN E WITH DOG FLU: A DOG S POINT OF VIEW TRAVELING SOON? TIPS TO STAY SHARP AND AVOID FRAUD FIGHTING THE MORNING LO K IMPROVING YOUR DOGS EMOTIONAL LIFE

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149 153 155 159 162 165 168 173 175 178 184 188 192

HOME 5 KIT HEN UPGRADES TO MAKE YOUR INNER HOST FLOURISH BIG SMART IDEAS FOR RENOVATING SMALLER HOMES HOW TO TA KLE A DUST-FREE RENOVATION TEENTASTI TI KS OF THE TRADE: KIT HEN RENOVAITIONS C

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BUSINESS 3 REASONS TO GO ASHLESS 3 STEPS TP HELP FREELAN ERS AND GIG E ONOMY WORKERS AVOID AX BLUNDERS LASSI S REINVENTED WITH TE H: HOW TE HNOLOGY HAS UPDATED ARTS AND RAFTS REDIT UNIONS OR BANKS HOW SAVVY WI-FI USERS SAVE DATA AND DOLLARS HOW TO MAKE SURE YUR FINAN IAL ADVISOR OS WORKIG IN YOUR BEST INTEREST SEEKING A SMALL BUSINESS LOAN? C

222 226 230 234 237 240 244

Cover Image Credits: Chea Chea Media Inc. Glam Squad Cover photo credits: Photographer: Dee Johnson Photography Hair: All Phases Salon Naturals Stylist/Jewelry Maverick: Myisha Reaves Nail Artist: Sondra Wilkerson of Big City Styles Make Up: MYA DANAYE MCCLAIN Hair provided by: Lavish Life Hair Boutique/ Melinda Dixon

Game Changers Editor in Chief Chea K. Woolfolk Assistant Editor Little Chea Chea General Manager Craig Shanklin Executive Art Director Chea K. Woolfolk Staff Writer Chea K. Woolfolk, Craig Shanklin, KimberLy Moore

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Columnists: gay polk payton-white, Jamie Elmore, Contributing Writers for this issue: Korea Howard, Eugenia Greer, Jamie Keith, ,

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EDITOR'S LETTER OCT/NOV 2017

Greeting all! Welcome to the latest issue of CKW-The Chea K. Woolfolk Magazine. This issue is very special to me for many reason, the main being its focus on imagery. The power of images is often not thought about because we “SEE” so much during a 24-hour period. However, the images that are constantly fed to us fuel our very thoughts and imaginations. They guide us, often subconsciously towards our choices. The BOUDOIR portion of this issue is dedicated to the ladies who may feel as if aging nullifies their sexual appeal and beauty. It does not and age simply shows us what real beauty is and how long-lasting self-confidence, self-love and selfcare can be. The one article that has had such a positive impact on me personally is the “BLACK MEN ARE POWER!” article focusing on imagery. This visual piece was birthed from my own frustration with the negative and constant visual dumping of stereotypical imagery of the black male. Within this article is an assortment of backgrounds and diverse achievements. Yet, each black man has proven to be a GAME CHANGER! I know that I cannot change the world all at once but I damn sure can chisel away at the wrongs of the world and make a difference. This article is me …CHISELING! “Whoever controls the media, the images, controls the culture.” Allen Ginsberg

“Great HAIR doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by appointment.”

Darla Styles 502-419-9589 #DARLASTYLES IG: darla_styles502502 Book online @vagaro.com

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Darla has been in the industry for over 19 years. she takes great pride in creating, maintaining and achieving healthy hair for her clients. It is important to Darla to educate her clients on maintaining healthy hair in between salon visits. Creating a new look and attitude for her clients is Darla's favorite part of her job. Her talent and pride shows in all of her work. Seeing her vision come to life and a happy client looking fabulous truly makes her day.

Linda Toogood with over 35 years’ experience as a master stylist, over 23 years owning Toogood and Company. She also has more than 2 years as an instructor at 1 of the top cosmetology institutes. Her greatest passion is keeping clients excited about their best accessory, their hair. Her love for color and cutting keeps clients coming back and referring friends. Linda continues to strive for excellence through our ongoing educational programs and attending hair shows. Working alongside the best stylist, she is a sought-after mentor for all future professionals.

Lekeisha has had a passion for the hair and beauty industry most of her life. When she became a mother she decided to become serious about her passion. She received her education at Paul Mitchell, and is currently styling hair at All Phases Salon Naturals. She is currently perfecting her skills in a wide range of hair techniques including long hair, cutting, and up-dos. However, her specialty and passion is color. Lekeisha uses a wide range of design essential and Paul Mitchell and Joico color products. She truly believes Keeping God first that anything is possible.

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The Chea K. Woolfolk Magazine

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FASHION

IS YOUR HEARING LOSS A BARRIER TO A HAPPY LIFE?Â BPT

Y Sheliadawn Fitch would wonder if it really was possible for her to hear again. But she would shove aside those thoughts, overcome by fear and uncertainty, telling herself she was doing okay.

Not that you could blame her. The vivacious Texan had been through a lot, having lost much of her ability to hear speech when she was around 40 years old. Following an air bag injury, she suffered from an ear infection that led to her profound hearing loss. Fitch's hearing aids didn't go far enough to restore quality hearing, so they were useless.

She suspected she was a good candidate for cochlear implants, but the idea of going through with the procedure struck her with fear.

"I really thought that since I was an excellent lip reader that I could get by just fine," says Fitch, who is now 54.

Eventually, things got worse. She faced missing out on fully participating in her daughter's wedding and she was stricken when she realized people were actually avoiding her.

"Not only did that hurt my feelings, I was always the type who was overly involved in school, community and church events," Fitch says. "Things just weren't working out for me or my lifestyle."

The silent affliction

Fitch is far from alone. Hearing loss is one of those silent afflictions that impacts millions. In addition, it tends to cut people off from the world so the general population may not realize just how widespread it is.

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), 36 million Americans have hearing loss, affecting 17 percent of our adult population. When you look at the older adult population, the rate of hearing loss is even more startling. It affects one third of Americans between the ages of 65 and 74, and nearly half of those over the age of 75, the NIDCD further states.

What's more, a high percentage of people with hearing loss, like Fitch, find ways to cope with it rather than pursue treatments. Only 30 percent of adults ages 70 and older who can benefit from hearing aids try them, according to the NIDCD. Others with more severe hearing loss, like Fitch, may be reluctant to pursue other solutions such as cochlear implants.

This exile from the world can be lonely as well as debilitating. In several studies cited by the NIDCD, researchers have found the isolation imposed by hearing loss is one underlying cause of depression and decreased cognitive function found in adults who become prisoners in their muted world.

Is it time to look for a different solution?

If you've tried hearing aids but wondered if you were a candidate for cochlear implants, here are three signs that confirm you may be suffering from the effects of severe or profound hearing loss.

1. You avoid your hearing aids.

Fitch was outfitted with hearing aids. At first she was overjoyed she could hear sounds again, but it eventually dawned on her that something critical was missing from the quality of those sounds.

"I was hearing, but not really understanding," says Fitch. "Everything was louder. I needed clarity, not just volume."

In fact, Fitch got headaches from straining to sift through the din of background noise to understand what people were saying to her. Eventually, she had to abandon them and rely on her lip-reading skills.

2. Family dynamics are becoming strained.

With more severe hearing loss that's not helped by hearing aids, you may notice changes in how your friends and family interact. Family members may frequently comment on the too-loud television or radio, or note the noise is interfering with their sleep. Perhaps they're showing more frustration and impatience because they're frequently misunderstood or asked to repeat themselves.

3. You dread rather than look forward to special occasions.

When there's ongoing hearing loss, family milestones and special occasions may come with a special sense of dread and sadness, driving painful choices. Do you suffer through an unpleasant event or do you stay home and disappoint your family? Perhaps a family member who serves as your "human hearing aid" can't attend and you can't face the idea of attending alone without your "ears."

Finding courage to take the next step

After seven-and-a-half years of living with hearing loss, it was the upcoming wedding of her daughter and the arrival of her future grandchildren that brought Fitch to the tipping point. She realized she "might miss all of it." That startling idea finally gave her enough courage to ask a doctor for help.

One option for Fitch and others who suffer from profound hearing loss is a Cochlear Nucleus Implant System (www.cochlear.com). While hearing aids only amplify sounds, cochlear implants help make them louder and clearer. Improving the clarity of hearing may help someone better understand speech in both quiet and noisy situations. There are two primary components of the Cochlear Nucleus System: the implant that is surgically placed underneath the skin and the external sound processor. To receive the implant, Fitch needed a CAT scan and clearance from her doctor. Several weeks after the surgery, her new Cochlear system was activated.

"And I heard and understood from that day on," she says.

"I didn't miss those wedding vows, or the dance music afterwards, and most importantly, I heard my grandbabies cry their first cries."

Views expressed herein are those of the individual. Consult your hearing health provider to determine if you are a candidate for cochlear implant technology. Outcomes and results may vary.

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3 activities to help you move safely after knee surgery

(BPT) - Most patients undergoing knee surgery want to know when they'll be able to return to a pain-free, active lifestyle and do the things they once enjoyed before knee pain took over. For 58-year-old Kathleen Cohan, this meant a desire to return to mountain biking, hiking and skiing - activities she had always loved to do as a youth and continued to enjoy with her husband in their hometown of Golden, Colorado.

Cohan recently participated in a clinical trial to treat persistent knee pain caused by a meniscus tear. After receiving the NUsurface Meniscus Implant - the first "artificial meniscus" she completed a six-week rehabilitation program and was ready to return to doing the things she loved.

An article by BPT

"The NUsurface Meniscus Implant changed my life. It feels great to not have to worry before I choose an activity about how much pain I'll be in afterward," Cohan says. "My husband and I recently went on a 100-mile mountain bike trip, and I climbed a 14,000-foot peak last month and my knee didn't bother me at all. The implant gave me a chance to extend my activity level as long as I possibly can."

58-year-old Kathleen Cohan is back to mountain biking, hiking and skiing after receiving an investigational artificial meniscus.

Three months after surgery, most patients have completely recovered and are able to return to many activities that were too painful or difficult previously. Once you've been cleared by your doctor, the safest way to restart activity after meniscus surgery is to find activities that avoid placing unnecessary stress on your knee joint. Here are three activities to help you move safely after knee surgery:

1. Walk (don't run!). Experts say walking outside your home three to five times each day is one of the best ways to regain your knee strength. While you may need to adjust the length of your step and speed, you will be able to spend more time walking for exercise once your muscle strength improves.

2. Dance. While you should avoid high-impact moves like jumping or lifts, ballroom dancing and gentle modern dancing are great ways to use leg muscles, engage in aerobic activity and have fun! Just be sure to avoid abrupt movements or twists that could potentially put your knee out of alignment.

3. Swim. Once the wound has healed, many people choose swimming as their exercise of choice as it's not a weight-bearing activity and therefore reduces stress to the joints. If your knee is still a bit tender, opt for water aerobics or pool walking.

Want to mix it up? You can feel safe doing many other recommended activities such as yoga, golf, boating, aerobics or rowing. If you have experience prior to your surgery doing more intense activities, like Cohan, your doctor may give you the go-ahead to resume cycling, hiking, cross-country skiing and doubles tennis. Whichever activity you choose, remember that rushing into activities before you've recovered sufficiently may put you at risk for complications, so be sure to check with your doctor first before resuming any activity after meniscus surgery.

To be eligible for the NUsurface Meniscus Implant clinical studies, you must be between the ages of 30 and 75, and have pain after medial (the inside of the knee) meniscus surgery at least six months ago. To find a study site near you, visit www.activeimplants.com/kneepaintrial.

5 TIPS TO MAKE SURE YOUR TEENAGER WITH DIABETES IS READY FOR COLLEGE

Article Contributed By: BPT

IParents across the country are preparing their teens for their first year of college. It's an exciting time, but a stressful one as well. If you're a parent with a child with diabetes, it may also be terrifying as this may be the first time your teen will be completely responsible for their own care (i.e., remembering to check their blood glucose levels throughout the day and night, modifying their insulin as needed and planning their meals in advance to take their mealtime insulin). Yep, that's stressful. However, this challenge - like the many others you've faced since your child's diagnosis - can be conquered with a little preparation. As you and your child prepare for this next chapter, keep these tips in mind and your child's freshman year of college may be everything you both dreamed it could be. * Tell someone. Tell everyone. Diabetes can be a private matter, but when your child moves away from home and is living on their own, it's best that those around them are aware of their condition. Encourage your child to discuss their diabetes, including warning signs that something may be wrong and what to do in the event of an emergency with friends, coaches, their dorm Resident Assistant and particularly, their roommate. The more people who can be watching out for your child, the better. NOMADIC

* Talk to health care staff. It is important your child gets acquainted with the health care resources available to them on campus. Have your child make an appointment to see a clinician in the school's student health service to discuss their diabetes in depth and learn more about how the school's health system can support them in that care. Your child should also use this time to learn more about weekend, night and emergency care options as well as the location of pharmacies near campus. * Reassess their regimen. As your child will be starting a new daily routine, it may also be time to meet with their primary care physician to discuss their management plan and treatment options. They can ask if Tresiba® (insulin degludec injection 100 U/mL, 200 U/mL) is right for them. Tresiba®, a once-daily long-acting insulin, is indicated to improve glycemic control in people as young as 1 year old with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Tresiba® provides blood sugar control for a full 24 hours, with proven A1C reduction. Adults can take Tresiba® once daily at any time of day; however, children under 18 should take their dose once daily at the same time each day. If adults miss or delay a dose, they should take Tresiba® as soon as they remember, then continue with their regular dosing schedule. Make sure there are at least 8 hours between doses. If children under 18 miss a dose, call their health care provider for information and instructions about checking blood sugar levels more often until the next scheduled dose of Tresiba®. * Read up before they eat up. Food is such an integral part of your child's diabetes management, and college life means they won't always make the best eating decisions. You can help them control what they eat by encouraging them to talk to staff at the cafeteria. The food service team should be able to provide a document outlining the nutritional information in the meals offered so your child can come to the cafeteria every day empowered to make the best decisions with their diabetes in mind. * Be sure they have the tools they need and a way to get more. Sit down with your child and make a list of everything they need - at any point in time - to manage their diabetes. Once you've got the list, set a plan to make your child's dorm room - not your home - the new ground zero where all supplies will live. Don't rely on resupplying when they come home to visit, because college life gets busy and you don't want to worry about rush shipping an item. Yes, preparing for that first year at college can be exciting, stressful and even scary, but if you apply a little extra planning with the tips above, your child will be ready to make their first year of college their best year yet. Indication and Important Safety Information for Tresiba® What is Tresiba®? Prescription Tresiba® is a long-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children who are 1 year of age and older with diabetesTresiba® is not for people with diabetic ketoacidosisTresiba® is not for children who need less than 5 units of Tresiba® each dayIt is not known if Tresiba® is safe and effective in children under 1 year of ageTresiba® is available in 2 concentrations: 200 units/mL and 100 units/mLDo not share your Tresiba® FlexTouch® with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them. Who should not take Tresiba®? Do not take Tresiba® if you: are having an episode of low blood sugarare allergic to Tresiba® or any of the ingredients in Tresiba® Before taking Tresiba®, tell your health care provider about all your medical conditions, including if you are: pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeedingtaking new prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplementsTalk to your health care provider about low blood sugar and how to manage it. How should I take Tresiba®? Read the Instructions for Use and take Tresiba® exactly as your health care provider tells you toDo not do any conversion of your dose. The dose counter always shows the selected dose in units Know the type and strength of insulin you take. Do not change the type of insulin you take unless your health care provider tells you toAdults - If you miss or are delayed in taking your dose of Tresiba®:Take your dose as soon as you remember, then continue with your regular dosing scheduleMake sure there are at least 8 hours between dosesIf children miss a dose of Tresiba®:Call the healthcare provider for information and instructions about checking blood sugar levels more often until the next scheduled dose of Tresiba®Check your blood sugar levels. Ask your health care provider what your blood sugar levels should be and when you should check themDo not reuse or share your needles with other people. You may give them a serious infection, or get a serious infection from themNever inject Tresiba® into a vein or muscleNever use a syringe to remove Tresiba® from the FlexTouch® penWhat should I avoid while taking Tresiba®?

CONTRIBUTED BY BPT

A MOTHER'S LOSS SHEDS LIGHT ON NEED FOR BETTER ASTHMA CONTROL (BPT) - For people living with asthma, managing the condition becomes part of their daily life. But some may not know that, in spite of their best efforts, their asthma may still be uncontrolled.

Benjamin Buckley was one of those people. Ben, as he was known, was just 7 years old when he died from asthma-related complications in 2014. Now, Ben's mother, Cristin Buckley, is sharing his story in an effort to help raise awareness of just how serious asthma can be.

According to Cristin, it was a normal Saturday morning in the Buckley household. Ben went to his sister's basketball game with the rest of the family, but when the game ended, Ben asked if he could go home and use his nebulizer, as he was experiencing an asthma attack.

Later that day, Cristin received a frantic call from her husband and daughter and came home to find Ben had collapsed in the driveway. Police and paramedics were already on the scene performing CPR. They were able to start Ben's heart, but he was unconscious and not able to breathe on his own. He remained in a coma for five days until he passed away.

"What we didn't realize was that Ben was using his rescue inhaler way more than he should have been. We were refilling it once a month," said Cristin. "The pharmacy just kept refilling the prescription, so we didn't think it was an issue. Looking back now, we know his asthma was uncontrolled."

"Make sure their doctor takes the time to sit down and teach them how to properly use their inhaler," Cristin said. "People think they can just put it in their mouth and take a few puffs and it works just fine, but so much medicine is wasted or doesn't get into the lungs because they're not taking a deep enough breath."

Another one of her main priorities, particularly before school starts, is to make sure all of Adam's inhalers have enough medicine in them. As such,

And it appears the Buckley family is not alone, as studies indicate that asthma is responsible for deaths every day in the United States, most of which are believed to occur in patients with uncontrolled asthma.

Cristin relies on inhalers fitted with dose counters to help both her and Adam better manage his asthma. A dose counter works by showing the user exactly how many doses are left in the inhaler - similar to looking at a bottle of pills to see how much medicine is left.

"I think dose counters are one of the best things ever invented," Cristin

"Uncontrolled asthma can have a huge impact on a patient's health," said Dr. Purvi Parikh, a New York City-based allergist and immunologist and national spokesperson for the Allergy and Asthma Network. "Patients may not know the signs - but if someone is using their rescue inhaler more than twice a week, and their asthma is interrupting daily activities and sleep, they should really talk to their doctor immediately to assess if it is uncontrolled."

said. "Before they were integrated into inhalers, you were blindly leading your child. You had no idea how much medicine was left."

Dr. Parikh also noted that the addition of a dose counter to asthma management can create a helpful dialogue between patients and their doctors. She explained how the dose counter allows the doctor to see how much medicine has been used since the previous visit and determine if a patient is using their rescue inhaler too frequently.

"When using an inhaler that does not include a dose counter, you really are taking a gamble on your life," said Cristin.

Cristin's number one priority today is that Ben's asthmatic twin brother Adam, now 11 years old, is equipped to handle an attack on his own. To ensure he is prepared, Cristin takes Adam for his annual check-up with his allergist before the school year starts.

For additional information on the importance of dose counters, visit KnowYourCount.com, and for more on Ben and Cristin's story, visit www.BenWasHere.org.

Mrs. Buckley has been compensated for her time in contributing this program.

Extra Extra! By: BPT

Coughing? Bring a Healthy Dose of Sick-Etiquette to Work 1"When you're sick, it's so important to take precautions to keep your germs from infecting others, which should always include staying home from work or other activities until symptoms have subsided," says Gottsman. "I understand that sometimes life seems too busy to get sick or a workplace may not offer enough paid time off. So staying home and putting work on the back burner until you're well is not an option for everyone. Still, productivity will decline when you are sick and you may prolong your illness by overexerting yourself." Being considerate of others when you're sick is one of the first steps to good sick etiquette.

With that, Gottsman says the name of the game is keeping those germs to yourself. Don't be afraid to be

For example, you may think you're going to

demonstrative about that so you send a clear signal that

score points for showing up at work despite

you care and you don't want to infect anyone - it will

feeling under the weather. However, if you

put your friends and colleagues at ease. Here are

were to run this by an etiquette expert like

Gottsman's sick etiquette tips:

Diane Gottsman, she would probably tell you the reverse is true.

Telecommute: If it is physically possible for you to complete a day's work at home, that is probably the

"A recent survey found that half of Americans

second most ideal solution to taking a sick day. If that's

feel anxious about getting sick when others

not a typical arrangement at your place of employment,

cough around them," Gottsman says. "So

though, frame it as being beneficial to your boss and

when you cough, your co-workers are likely

your fellow employees. For example: "I understand we

going to be thinking of themselves and may

have this important deadline coming up, which is why I

not sympathize with you."

would prefer not to spread this bug to others. What if I worked on the project from my home office today

That's why Gottsman says the best thing you

instead of coming in? If you sent me the call-in

can do is steer clear of the office. If working

information, I could still join the conference call later.

remotely isn't an option, it is best to take a sick

Of course, if you need anything at all, I'm just a phone

day.

call or email away."

Touch no one: If a friend moves in for a hug or a handshake, kindly warn them that you are recovering from a cold and would prefer to "play it safe" before extending your hand or leaning in for a hug.

Keep a sickness arsenal: Keep your desk well stocked to help you treat your symptoms and keep common areas germ-free. For your kit, consider items like tissues, disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer, as well as relief for sick symptoms, like pain relievers and a cough syrup like Robitussin.

Avoid shared surfaces: Cold viruses can survive several hours on surfaces, transferring easily to your colleagues. Germs can be hard to contain and avoid, but you can do your part by wiping down shared areas like a table or chair with a disinfecting wipe when you are finished using them.

Cover your mouth wisely: Coughs and sneezes give germs and viruses a nice little vehicle to get around and infect others nearby. When you must cough or sneeze, use a tissue or cough into your arm or elbow - never your hand, because the hands help spread the germs around. When using a tissue, promptly dispose of it and sanitize your hands.

Minimize coughing: When people hear someone cough in a crowded space, 26 percent feel annoyed, and 46 percent feel anxious about getting sick themselves, according to a recent online survey conducted by the Harris Poll. Keeping the medicine cabinet stocked with a powerful cough reliever is one effective way to suppress your cough. One product Gottsman recommends is Robitussin 12 Hour Cough Relief, because the long-lasting formula gets you through the whole work day by providing soothing relief from the hacking coughing. (You'll also be much quieter, which is a bonus.)

It's not always possible or practical to stay home for several days when you come down with a cold, but practicing good sick etiquette can help keep viruses from spreading to those around you.

Diabetes impacts younger people more often: Are you at risk? BPT

G. Â Every 17 seconds someone in the United States is diagnosed with diabetes. What's even more surprising is diabetes is growing fastest among younger people, outpacing the rate of heart disease, substance abuse and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

A new study by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) shows that the impact of diabetes continues to grow and is increasing most rapidly among those age 18 through 34. The 4.7 percent growth in diabetes impact for younger adults from 2013 through 2015 corresponds to this age group's spike in obesity rates, a key contributor to the onset of diabetes.

Diabetes ranks third in terms of its health impact nationally on quality of life and cost for the commercially insured population among the more than 200 conditions measured by the Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Health Index. The "health impact" of a specific condition reflects the prevalence and severity for that condition as well as the years of life lost due to disability and risk of premature death.

The report, "Diabetes and the Commercially Insured U.S. Population," represents an analysis of the BCBS Health Index data on diabetes, which leverages the claims of more than 40 million BCBS members.

Younger people may not be as focused on their health and many may not be aware they are at risk for diabetes at their age. The first step is to understand the risk and the next step is to take action. Type 2 diabetes is preventable with thoughtful, proactive measures.

According to the American Diabetes Association, there are many ways to lower your risk of developing diabetes, including:

Weight: Staying at a healthy weight can help you prevent and manage problems like prediabetes, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol. Keep tabs on your weight by weighing yourself at least once per week. Stay active and strive to watch less than 10 hours of TV per week. Physical activity: Physical activity can do a lot for your overall health. Set your alarm to get up and stretch or walk around the house or office at least every 30 minutes throughout the day. A walking buddy or workout friend can support you while you both work toward your goals. Healthy eating: Eating healthy is one of the most important things you can do to lower your risk for Type 2 diabetes. Cut back on calories and fat in your diet. Choose lean meats, whole grains and fill half your plate with non-starchy veggies such as carrots, broccoli and green beans. Consider keeping a journal of what you eat and have fun trying new healthy recipes. Finally, speak with your doctor about any concerns you have. Your doctor is able to provide individualized insight into your risks and guide you to how you can prevent diabetes and live healthier. For more information, visit www.bcbs.com.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is a national federation of 36 independent, community-based and locally operated Blue Cross Blue Shield companies that collectively provide health care coverage for one in three Americans. BCBSA provides health care insights through The Health of America Report series and the national BCBS Health Indexsm. For more information on BCBSA and its member companies, please visit BCBS.com. We also encourage you to connect with us on Facebook, check out our videos on YouTube, follow us on Twitter and check out our blog.

HOW TO TELL IF SOMEONE NEEDS INPATIENT DRUG TREATMENT

ARTICLE CONTRIBUTED BY: BPT

It's no secret that drug and alcohol abuse don't pair well with a happy, productive and goal-oriented lifestyle. And even if it doesn't escalate to an addiction, drug and alcohol use can still get in the way of one's goals. When a loved one shows signs of substance abuse, how do you know when it's time to take a stand? Is residential treatment the best option? Pamela Anderson, executive director of A Forever Recovery, an addiction treatment center, offers her expertise on how to tell when someone you love might require a residential drug treatment plan: Experiencing an overdose "In the past decade, the number of deaths due to drug overdose has increased dramatically, especially involving prescription drugs, according to The Michigan Automated Prescription System," says Anderson. Because of this, a state drug task force is recommending a shift in Michigan law to allow for over-the-counter sales of an injectable drug, Vivitrol, that can help prevent relapse to opioid dependence after detox. Vivitrol is a long-acting formula that only needs to be administered once a month. "But if someone needs this drug to prevent a relapse, it's also a sure sign they need residential treatment," she continues. Low motivation levels Addiction treatment programs are offered on a voluntary basis, allowing people to drop out at any time. People often don't feel like they need to recover and only turn to outpatient care as a way to make it seem like they're getting better. But if they end up relapsing, inpatient care is a solution for the second attempt at recovery, providing more supervision and lessons that outpatient care can't teach.No safe place to recover The essentials for a complete recovery include a drug-free environment, regular nutritious meals, transportation to appointments and a supportive environment. Even if someone was to undergo outpatient care, they may not have access to all these key aspects. A residential care facility offers a safe space to get back on track. Signs of physical illness Addictions have a serious effect on a person's physical health. When someone struggles with addiction in combination with a physical condition, the road to recovery is winding and long. These types of patients would benefit from an individual approach to overcoming addiction in an inpatient setting.

Loss of jobs and relationships When drug use starts to affect a person's responsibilities and relationships, it becomes a major issue. Substance abuse puts up a barrier between friends and family members, while late nights and hangovers put people at risk of missing work or school. Substance abuse also costs a lot of money, draining bank accounts or worse, leading someone into debt. Continued relapse If you've heard the phrase, "I promise, I'll quit," way too many times, it may be a sign that residential treatment is necessary. When the person of concern assures you they'll quit, but continues to relapse and make excuses, it's time for a better approach. Continued professional care may be their only hope. Knowing the signs of a serious addiction is the first step to helping your loved one on the path towards recovery. To learn more about residential treatment facilities, visit aforeverrecovery.com.

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MILLENNIALS PREFER HEALTHY HABITS, LESS LIKELY TO CHOOSE OPIOIDS TO MANAGE PAIN By: BPT

Often spending their days hunched over phones, tablets or computers and their free time at spin class or playing sports, millennials are the next generation poised to experience chronic pain. Even at their young age, millennials say acute and chronic pain are already interfering with their quality of life. But while older generations are more likely to turn to medication for pain relief, millennials' preferred method is lifestyle changes such as exercising, eating right, quitting smoking and losing weight, according to a nationwide survey commissioned by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) in conjunction with September's Pain Awareness Month. The survey also found that millennials were half as likely as baby boomers to have turned to opioids to manage pain, and 1 in 5 millennials regret that they used the highly addictive painkillers. But while the results reflect a positive trend, they also reveal a knowledge gap. The survey found many millennials were: * More likely to obtain opioids inappropriately. One in 10 millennials (ages 18-36) obtained opioids through another household member's prescription, compared to 3 percent of Gen Xers (37-52), 1 percent of baby boomers (53-71) and none of the silent generation (72-92). * More likely to think it's OK to take an opioid without a prescription. Nearly 30 percent of millennials thought it was OK to take an opioid without a prescription, compared to 20 percent of Gen Xers, 12 percent of baby boomers and 3 percent of the silent generation. * AND less likely to dispose of leftover opioids safely. In fact, 1 in 5 millennials said they "did not know" the best way to safely dispose of opioids, and only 37 percent were aware that a collection center at a local police station, hospital pharmacy or drug store was the best method of disposal. "It's encouraging that millennials see the value of opting for safer and often more effective methods of managing pain," said ASA President Jeffrey Plagenhoef, M.D. "But clearly they are in need of further education because using opioids initially to treat pain can turn into a lifelong struggle with addiction."

Learning how to manage pain is vital: 75 percent of millennials say they have had acute pain (which comes on suddenly and lasts less than three months) and nearly 60 percent have experienced chronic pain (which lasts longer than three months). The source of that pain is reflective of millennials' lifestyle, including technology use (leading to eye strain, neck aches, hand or finger pain, wrist or arm pain), migraines and sports injuries.

It's important to address pain before it interferes with quality of life by seeing the right specialist for pain management. Whatever the age, people in severe pain who don't find relief through lifestyle changes should see a physician who specializes in pain management, such as a physician anesthesiologist who has the expertise and training to best help manage pain.

To help all generations cope with pain, ASA offers the following tips:

* Take a break from devices and gaming. To avoid aches from smartphone, tablet and gaming overuse, use devices at eye level instead of looking down for long periods of time, which puts strain on your neck and back. To avoid digital eye strain, look away from the screen every 20 seconds and don't sit too close to the screen.

* Don't be a weekend warrior. Whether you plan to hit the basketball court after many years away or do CrossFit weekly, ease into it. Warm up your muscles and stretch to avoid pain and injury. If you think you've been injured, see a pain management specialist right away.

* Remember to move. Whether you're in the library studying or at a desk job, get up and move at least once an hour, if not more.

* Get healthy. Take charge of your health now and engage in healthy lifestyle changes before chronic pain sets in. Maintain a healthy weight and eat a balanced diet. Quit smoking.

* Take and dispose of opioids the right way. If prescribed opioids, ask your physician questions about taking them appropriately. If you have leftover opioids, dispose of them at a collection center at a local police station, hospital pharmacy or drugstore. This will ensure that others who have not been prescribed the opioids do not have access to them.

For more information about pain treatment and the importance of seeing a physician anesthesiologist, visit the ASA's pain management page at www.asahq.org/whensecondscount.

THE DIFFERENT FACES OF TUBERCULOSIS: A SILENT DISEASE PICTURE COMING HOME FROM TRAVELING THE WORLD FOR SIX MONTHS TO FIND OUT THE COUGH YOU COULDN'T KICK WAS ACTIVE TUBERCULOSIS (TB). OR IMAGINE FINDING OUT YOUR SENIOR YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL THAT YOU'VE BEEN CARRYING AROUND LATENT TB FOR MOST OF YOUR LIFE, WHICH PROGRESSED TO ACTIVE TB, INFECTING YOUR FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CLASSMATES. FOR TWO PEOPLE - KRISTEN AND ZEE - THESE STORIES WERE A REALITY. APPROXIMATELY ONE-THIRD OF THE WORLD, INCLUDING AN ESTIMATED 13 MILLION PEOPLE IN THE U.S., HAVE LATENT TB, WHICH HAS NO SYMPTOMS AND CAN PROGRESS TO ACTIVE TB WHEN A PERSON'S IMMUNITY BECOMES COMPROMISED. WHILE MANY PEOPLE CONSIDER TB A DISEASE OF THE PAST, IT REMAINS THE LEADING INFECTIOUS DISEASE KILLER WORLDWIDE AND IS ESTIMATED TO TAKE A LIFE EVERY 18 SECONDS. TUBERCULOSIS TREATMENT IMPACTED KRISTEN AND ZEE'S LIVES FOR NEARLY A YEAR. BUT HAD THEY BEEN PROPERLY TESTED FOR, AND DIAGNOSED WITH, LATENT TB, BOTH COULD HAVE UNDERGONE TREATMENT TO STOP THE INFECTION FROM PROGRESSING TO ACTIVE TB, AND FROM SPREADING TO OTHERS. AN UNEXPECTED SENIOR YEAR AFTER A KNEE INJURY DURING HIS SENIOR YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL, ZEE P. HAD WHAT HE THOUGHT WAS A COLD THAT STUCK AROUND FOR LONGER THAN NORMAL. "I WAS CONSTANTLY TIRED, HAD LOST NEARLY 20 POUNDS AND COULDN'T SHAKE A DEEP, PHLEGMY COUGH. MY DOCTORS THOUGHT I HAD A COLD, THEN PNEUMONIA, BUT NONE OF THE MEDICINE MADE ME FEEL BETTER," RECALLS ZEE.

By: BPT

After nearly a month of not knowing what was wrong, Zee was finally diagnosed with active TB. He soon learned he had been carrying around the TB bacteria in his body for more than 10 years, since his birth mother lost her battle to TB in Ethiopia when he was 7 years old. Although Zee was tested with a TB skin test when he first came to the U.S., it did not pick up the TB infection and showed a false negative so his latent TB was never treated.

"My diagnosis caused chaos throughout my community. A lot of people didn't know what latent TB was and weren't aware that TB is still prevalent, even here in the U.S. If doctors had tested me when I first came to America with a simple blood test, I could have avoided all of the craziness that took over my life."

Zee began an aggressive seven-month treatment, including two months of complete quarantine. Since he had walked around with active disease for several weeks, his entire school and family were required to get tested for latent TB. They were administered a simple blood test called QuantiFERON-TB Gold, developed by QIAGEN. Fifty students, as well as his parents, tested positive for latent TB and received medication to prevent the progression to active disease.

An unwanted souvenir

San Francisco-based product marketing manager Kristen V. returned home from a trip around the globe with a chest rattle that kept waking her up at night, but her doctors couldn't figure out the cause.

"Doctor visit after doctor visit I kept getting sent home with different allergy medications or new cough remedies, but nothing was helping. I felt like a crazy person - I started taking pictures and documenting all of my symptoms so I would have proof for my doctors because they didn't believe something was actually wrong," said Kristen. After months of uncertainty, Kristen was diagnosed with active TB.

An avid and educated traveler, Kristen was shocked to learn TB was so prevalent in the countries she visited, how easy it was to contract, and mainly, why she hadn't been warned of the risk before.

"My husband and I always check the CDC website before we travel, get every vaccination needed and I have never read anything about getting tested for latent TB after traveling to these areas." Kristen explains.

Kristen's treatment was nine months, starting with two months of quarantine. She wasn't allowed to go to work, go to the grocery store, or travel, and her coworkers, friends and family had to get tested for TB, too. Using the modern blood test, her husband tested positive for latent TB and was able to undergo a fairly simple treatment regimen to destroy the mycobacterium tuberculosis in his body. However, the real difference between their treatments was that he was able to continue to live a normal life, going to work, running errands and more, while her life was full of daily visits to the doctor and extreme fatigue.

"It would have been such an easy thing if I had only known to get tested when I came back home. I could have carried on with my life with a minor inconvenience of treating the latent disease, instead of having my world flipped upside down for nearly a year."

Understanding your risk and taking action

Like Zee and Kristen, many people don't realize they've been walking around with latent TB until it progresses to active disease.

Certain people are at high risk of being infected with latent TB, including immigrants from high-incidence countries, those traveling to high-incidence countries, those who have medical conditions that weaken the immune system or people on immunosuppressive medications.

If you think you or a loved one are at risk, talk to your doctor about getting tested with a blood test such as QuantiFERON-TB Gold. Learn more at www.QuantiFERON.com.

The performance of the USA format of the QuantiFERON- TB Gold test has not been extensively evaluated with specimens from individuals younger than age 17 years, or in the immunocompromised population or in patients receiving immunosuppressive treatment or drugs.

Â Kristen and husband, Zack

Zee

THE KEY TO PERSONALIZED VITAMINS: UNDERSTANDING MEDICATION AND NUTRIENT INTERACTIONS Technology, science and research are turning our world into a personalized powerhouse at our fingertips, including products made specifically for us delivered to our doorsteps. We wear personal fitness trackers to track our steps, sleep and heart rates. Personal trainers are commonplace to design fitness routines that are made just for us. Today, we understand that our family history, lifestyle choices and even genetics are predictive of our health needs and this information is integrated into our health care plans. With all of this personalization, our nutritional supplement options still deliver the same cookie-cutter solutions found in store aisles. According to New Nutrition Business and its report "10 Key Trends in Food, Nutrition and Health 2017," personalized nutrition is the next big nutrition movement, as people want individually tailored diets. Personalized or precision nutrition is nutrition health care that considers the uniqueness of an individual to provide recommendations that are tailored to their needs and specific goals. When creating a personalized nutrition plan, it's important to take into account holistic well-being; however, deciding what is truly right for you can be confusing.

BY BPT

d oats or crush"Personalized nutrition shouldn't be taken lightly. It's not a catchy-named pack of vitamins or nutrition plans curated from a few questions about how you want to feel, it needs to include everything that makes you unique, down to the medications prescribed by your doctor," said Michael Roizen, MD, chief wellness officer at the Cleveland Clinic, co-author of the new book "Age-Proof: Living Longer without Running Out of Money or Breaking a Hip" and Vitamin Packs science advisory board member. "Technology is creating amazing advances in personalized nutrition, but it's only as good as the data it can collect and the information you are willing to share." Medication and Nutrition Interactions Nearly 50 percent of the U.S. population is taking prescription medications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and 68 percent of Americans are taking dietary supplements, based on the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) estimations. With several new personalized vitamin subscription services launching, it's important to select one that takes into account your diet, physical fitness, sleep patterns, lifestyle habits and family health history as well as your medication use. Some drugs can deplete nutrients while other medications add nutrients to the body. One subscription service, Vitamin Packs, delivers customized vitamins and nutritional supplements in daily packs based on what it learns during a free Nutritional Assessment. Its technology cross-examines more than 650 possible medication interactions and recommends only what an individual's body needs. ed bran cereal (or a mixture of them all.

Mixing Meds and Nutritional Supplements * Taking a statin? You will want to add Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) because the average blood concentration of CoQ10 in blood plasma decreases within 30 days by an average of 50 percent. * Taking a medication for allergies or inflammation? Consider adding vitamin D and calcium. These types of medications may reduce the absorption of calcium, which can lead to unnecessary bone loss. Supplementing with vitamin D and calcium may support bone health and adding vitamin D with calcium can have a greater impact on calcium absorption. * Taking a blood pressure medication? You should know that taking an iron supplement two hours before or after taking this type of medication can decrease its absorption rate. * Taking a synthetic thyroid hormone? Look at your supplement facts to be sure you're avoiding soy, iron and calcium. Soy, iron and calcium, if taken within four hours of taking a synthetic thyroid hormone, may reduce the absorption rate. Personalized nutrition, while exciting and impactful, should be focused on the whole person. Be sure to consult your health care practitioner before starting any dietary supplement regimen.

ALL WOMEN ARE LOVELY

SPOTLIGHT

ARTUCKSTIC Creations Gallery Saturday, September 9th 2017 The Elk’s Club 833 South 6th Street, Louisville KY, 40203 7:00 PM-10:00 PM

The ArTUCKstic Creations Event took place this past Saturday, September 9th 2017 at The Elk’s Club featuring artist Darryl Tucker, AKA” Mr. ArTUCKstic Creations” and some of his best artwork. Darryl’s talent for art began to shine at Westend Catholic and Fairdale Elementary schools when he drew Cartoon Characters for other students in his class. At Frost Middle School Darryl was tapped to draw the 8th Grade yearbook cover and won an Art Award for his display.

At Pleasure Ridge Park High School, Darryl began taking free art classes at Pleasantview Baptist Church, which was around the corner from his childhood home. While in High school, Darryl learned more complex art techniques such as water colors and foundation drawing. At The University of Louisville Darryl majored in Art and began using Charcoal to draw. He created his business called “Charcoal Creations” after doing Charcoal portraits for people in the community for over 15 years. Within the last 3 years Darryl began to use paint again. Darryl holds painting parties throughout the community through his business “Tuck’s Sip and Stroke.” He also works with acrylic and oil paints with his paintings business called “ArTUCKstic Creations.”

Darryl is inspired by different local artists and their techniques and participates in various art shows throughout the community. Darryl is also inspired by his children. His oldest daughter Sydney is also a very talented artist and paints with her Dad often. Sydney has drawn several church program covers and painted portraits of people in the community. Darryl’s children DJ, Danyelle, and Dominique all have been diagnosed with Autism and have inspired several of Darryl’s paintings. They also love art and have shown art as a skillset. Darryl’s work has been displayed in Today’s Woman Magazine’s “Man Issue”, showing a piece from his Autistic Collection of his youngest son Dominique.

The ArTUCKstic Creations Gallery Pieces Event is Darrylâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1st art party and it was a success! In addition to displaying his art, Darryl also had blank and pre-drawn canvases where guests could paint and draw their own creations. Food was provided by Jamaal and Tyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Cie Carter and a Cash Bar was also provided. Guests could purchase art pieces or prints of art. All attendees painted on a canvas before they left which Darryl will display as an Abstract Art piece. Music was provided by DJ Reggie Regg. With the success of the event Darryl plans to hold more art parties in the community.

Sponsored by VaShaun Nicole Enterprises, the VNE Community Business Cafe was designed to bring creative regional business owners together to showcase their services to the community. VNE partnered with the historic Lyric Theatre in Lexington, Kentucky to showcase this event. In attendance were 25 vendors ranging from wedding planners to photography and media design specialists. We also partnered with a host of companies and sponsors to offer $500.00 to the vendor who was the most progressive in their business. Graciously, four male business owners from the community judged each vendor table. Through brief personal interviews selected the winner. They also gave important feedback to each vendor. VNE is excited about the success from this inaugural event and looks forward success.

Who Are We? It is our mission to create an environment for Adults and Youth leaders by connecting, consulting and coaching.

Company Overview? Gifted By Design Leadership & Consulting Firm is a forward thinking company, that specializes in connecting, consulting, and coaching leadership practices to empower businesses, nonprofits, adults and youth.

Our Services: Consulting: Our consulting model A.I.M.S (Administrative Support, Improvement Process & Procedure Analysis & Implementation, Marketing/Branding, and Strategic Planning) is intended to provide each client with an operating growth strategy to excel its organization. Coaching: Individual and group coaching sessions are available. The successful GROW (Goals, Reality, Options, and Wrap-Up) Model produces maximum results. Our leadership strategies can be applied to Adults & Youth for Individual & Group Coaching Sessions. Adult Topics: Business Planning

Career Goals

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Youth Topics: Bullying

Self Image

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Speaking/Workshops/Seminars: 10 min. leadership briefing

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The Mastermind Group: is a small group study that focuses on leadership, communications, and growth principles/practices. Participants create an action plan and have accountability partners to fulfill their goals and plans. Youth Services: Gifted By Design offers an array of youth leadership development services. Services also include, courses, workshops, conferences, Youth Summits, speaking engagements, group coaching and youth training. Speaking: Our team will speak at youth events, conferences, assemblies, orientations, faith based programs, scholarship and/or awards programs. Group coaching: involves helping youth to see and head towards their goals. Youth Worker Training: involves teaching youth workerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leadership strategies so that they are better leaders tomorrow.

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As a race of human beings, we constantly find ways to divide ourselves...thereby impeding the growth and development of the human race. If you are from one country and I am from another, then superiority or inferiority complexes will soon overtake any bond we might hope to share. If we both live in the same country but you are black and I am white, the color of our skin will give us more ways to find differences in each other than ways to figure out what we have in common. If you are male and I'm female, the quest for dominance and gender equality will make us do more competing than completing.

Gay 's P SA Written by Gay L. Polk-Payton

If you're a Patriots fan and he supports the Raiders, why must that fact generate hatred in your spirit rather than sportsmanship and pride? How much is Brady paying you to root for him anyway? If we are both black but you wear your hair natural and I use a relaxer or weave, then are you MORE Black or WOKE than I am? Will your need to change my mind become more important than coexisting peacefully with our differences? If you are young and I am old, then will your youthful energy do all it can to overpower my developed wisdom or will my stubborn resolve regarding tradition stop new ideas from being birthed and implemented? If I'm a stay-at-home wife/mom and you're a career woman, why can't we both be strong women with work to do? Why must one have a greater impact on the world than the other? If I'm a blue-collar worker but you work in corporate America, whose job is more important? Is it more important to work in an office building or to work on the crew that built the building or that cleans the building to make it suitable for corporate work to be done? If you are traditionally religious and I am more spiritually open, then one of us is going to Hell. Neither will say who, but it's most likely you...whichever one of us that happens to be. If you're a democrat and she's a republican, then one of you is an idiot. Which one of you is said idiot is so subjective and POV-driven from day to day, it's pointless to debate. Where is the common ground? Why can't we learn to coexist peacefully? Why can't we agree to disagree in effort to realize that we are all interdependent upon each other and that the decisions and actions of everyone impacts the lives of everyone else. #butterflyeffect #Ineedyoutosurvive #getoveryourself #gayspsa #gaypolkpayton #gaypolkpaytonwhite

Gay Polk-Payton, Attorney at Law Forrest County Justice Court Judge P.O. Box 17914 Â Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39404 Â (601) 336-5361 (office) (601) 336-5973 (fax) Gpplaw@comcast.net

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Kim's Voice I am surrounded by people who believe in me. People who pray with me and pray for me. When I speak if knowing your circle, it means protecting your peace. The men and women who I am close to are true GAME CHANGERS. At this moment with everything going on I must be surrounded by LOVE. I am an AGENT FOR CHANGE which put you able to be attacked by others. When I am personally attacked I do not take it personal. I have learned that the BATTLE does NOT belong to me. I am in a relationship with my Creator and I know my worth and value. I play the hand that life has dealt me. I know that my journey is not about me. All that I have been thru and go thru is for others. THERE IS PURPOSE IN MY PAIN. Today I am surrounded by people I trust. TOUGH TIMES DON'T LAST. TOUGH PEOPLE DO. LASTING AND LAUGHING. Be Encouraged. KNOW YOUR CIRCLE. Sincerely, Kimberly Moore Agent of ChangeÂ

Look Good, Feel Better! Positive self image.

There are many opinions regarding how to improve self image but ultimately confidence is the key to a positive self image. We must discover our worth and it is our individual responsibility as part of the human community to build, encourage, and uplift one another. I have found through my years of experience in the beauty industry, we do not truly transform people externally without impacting them internally.

When we share goodness and kindness while providing our services, peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attitudes and at times, lives are transformed. Be a Blessing today by touching someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life with love and kindness. Sondra Wilkerson, Manicurist Big City Styles 312 W Chestnut Street Louisville, KY 40202 502-584-2489

Own Your Image

What exactly do I mean when I state that you should own your image? I mean that you must take ownership or responsibility of the images that we either take ourselves or allow others to take of us. You are the only one who has control over how your image is portrayed especially on social media. For an example: If you are trying to build a platform or brand as a professional motivational speaker then most of the photos that you take could be only or mostly social. It would probably be a good idea to post images of volunteer events or time spent with family and friends. Basically display or post photos that help develop or enhance your brand. Would it make sense to post or display party photos with drinks in hand while dancing wildly with men or being touched inappropriately by your friends? I am not saying that one shouldn't have a good time or be social outside of social media but I am saying to be mindful of your behavior at all times. Don't get caught representing something that you speak against or in lack of better terms don't get caught being a hypocrite. It shouldn't matter what you do right? It does matter because everything that you do has cause for judgement by your peers or fan base. You will never be able to please all the people all of the time but you can own what you do. Life is all about enjoyment and living it to your fullest but there are some things that should stay private. Could you agree to say that image is everything? If your image is everything and everything is important then treat your image with such importance. Make sure other people around you understand how much your image means to you and what you represent. With that being said, the way we perceive ourselves and the way others perceive us are two totally different perceptions. One thing I can say for sure is that we are in control of our images. A very brilliant and beautiful female entrepreneur once told me to always own my image. She explained to me that my image is my brand and I should be in control of it at all times. I have the right to say what and who can take my photo, whom I take a selfie with, and where my photo should appear. Here are a couple of tips that I would like to leave you with and hope this helps you to own your image. Be Aware - Knowing your surroundings at all times is a very important attribute to practice. You will never be in control of what other people do with their camera or phones but you can always be in control of your image. Be Consistent - Having a routine or constant way of doing things will create the habit of consistency. You have to practice this habit and the more you do this the more things will automatically flow throughout your life and with everything you do. Be Purposeful - Remember to always have a purpose for what you do. If you are invited to an event that will have media coverage you may want to dress in your finest and go all out to look your best. If photos are taken of you and then posted to the media site it is your right and responsibility to reach out to the public relations department and request copies or request that

photos be removed from their site if it is not in the best interest or represent your brand in a positive light. Be Beautiful - Beauty is not just an outer appearance representation but it is also the inner characteristics that count. You are what you think and believe. Remember that no one controls or owns the rights to your images but you!

Korea L. Howard Www.koreahoward.wordpress.com

Jamie’s Chair By: Aaron Allen

We all experience adversity and adversity can be as diverse and unique as the people on the planet. Bad things can happen to anyone, at any given :me and in unexpected ways. When we experience adversity how should we respond? This piece places the spotlight on a person who’s story presents a prime example of overcoming “hard :mes”. Jamie Elmore, who owns a local hair salon, is an example of someone who has overcome adversity through ac:on, faith and believing. The duality in this story is unique in that it stems from Jamie being a hair specialist only to be diagnosed with Alopecia and her fight to understand, accept and take on this hair disease. Elmore is a published writer, advocate and ac:vist living in SeaIle. She is a rarity in the Pacific Northwest being a Black business owner. Successful, intelligent and crea:ve she has been in business since the early 1990s. A graduate of Garfield High School, Elmore began her journey as young girl in love with hair. She loved doing hair, hair of dolls, siblings and friends, according to Elmore, this was her calling. “Growing up I always played with my dolls hair, always was playing with my sister’s, my cousin’s hair, I just knew I had a longing to do hair” says Elmore. ASer gradua:ng from high school, Elmore went on to become a licensed cosmetologist and immediately upon gradua:on from cosmetology school she started her business. She had this dream since a liIle girl and she aIained it. The path seemed golden, and success was around every corner. In 1993, she became a mother and was immediately hit with adversity, as her baby girl was born with severe medical condi:ons. As Elmore held the hand of her daughter through 10 major brain surgeries, while simultaneously trying to build a business, her faith began to get the upper hand in this universal baIle and over the years her child began to heal and grow stronger. But during that :me adversity was s:ll lingering in the form of stress on her body. Reloca:ng seemed liked a good idea so Elmore sold her SeaIle salon and moved to Louisiana where she established herself in business and began to thrive. Adversity would rear its head again as Elmore’s daughter would become cri:cally ill again while visi:ng family in SeaIle. Elmore had to pack up her business and relocate back to SeaIle and care for her child. Although she maintained a stone front, her spirit was searching, looking for answers and help to baIle adversity as she stood grounded in her faith. Some:mes the human being can have a nega:ve experience, believe their handling things and that their alright, but inside stress is wreaking havoc on our bodies and stress can trigger many different things in the body without us ever realizing it. “With all types of things going on, my daughter’s medical condi:on, I didn’t realize the amount of stress that was going on in my life and my body,” recalled Elmore.

Everything about the business Jamie is in is built around the health of your hair, beauty, and the percep:on that comes with it, how we see ourselves and others, as in most other aspects of life and in the business of beauty first impressions and percep:on is important. As a hair designer her knowledge, educa:on, service, is about hair care and on a hot and humid Louisiana day Jamie no:ced something about her hair. A round patch of hair was missing. She didn’t see it fall out, it did not get entangled in her fingers as she washed her hair, it was just gone, disappeared. “I never saw my hair, I never saw my hair in my hand, I never saw my hair on my pillow and that was the mystery behind this for me, because I would go to bed at night, wake up and find a bald spot and it looked like someone just took an eraser and erased the hair of my head,” recalls Elmore. As a hair care specialist this was a troubling and ironic occurrence in itself. She spoke with colleagues and professionals regarding it, as they all advised to giving it some :me to correct itself, however, over a period of months it happened again and again. She began losing her hair at an alarming rate. “I just knew that I was losing my hair and I was scared. Here I am servicing clients but I could not fix myself,” she explains. “All I knew was that my hair was leaving me, disappearing, that was the biggest mystery, I never saw it.” How was she going to explain this hair loss to her daughter, her friends, co-workers and clients? What about rela:onships? Will men find her aIrac:ve? The scenarios swirled in her head and heart, par:cularly regarding her daughter, it took a long :me before Jamie mustered the courage to tell her. It was important to Jamie to ins:ll in her daughter the responsibility and honor it is to be a woman, more importantly a Black woman. “I’m her example of what a woman is, how a woman should carry themselves, what a woman looks like. I’m her example, I was ashamed and scared, how am I going to tell this to my daughter?” said Elmore. Elmore was eventually referred to a dermatologist and was diagnosed with Alopecia. According to the Na:onal Alopecia Areata Founda:on (NAAF), Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disease, causing hair loss on the scalp, face and some:mes on other areas of the body. In fact, according to NAAF, Alopecia affects as many as 6.8 million people in the United States with a life:me risk of 2.1 percent of people being diagnosed with Alopecia. “I really thought I was dying,” said Elmore. “Because my body was changing and I could feel the stress inside of me.” “I finally went to specialist because enough was enough, she sat me on the table and said, “I think you have Alopecia,” Jamie con:nues. Jamie found herself overcome with depression, confusion and uncertainty, she began to take on this adversity with a sense of calling, beginning with her faith and of course draped in style. As she worked to heal, her “accessories” as Jamie likes to call them to hide her illness, grew in number and crea:vity, scarves, wraps and hats, but the mee:ng of one young person changed the trajectory of Jamie’s mission. She was introduced to an 11-year old young girl struggling with the disease. As they both looked into a mirror, Jamie desperately tried to encourage the young girl poin:ng out the uniqueness of their beauty in the face of their illness. It was as if the words not only address the needs of the young girl but her as well. This mee:ng propelled Jamie to act.

! In 2009, Elmore established Alopecia Support Group (ASG) a global support group for those baIling Alopecia and hair loss. She began publishing ar:cles and sharing her experience in hopes of suppor:ng, inspiring and encouraging others afflicted with Alopecia. “Alopecia has caused me to look at things a liIle different,” says Elmore. “I believe everybody has a story, it may not be my story, but you have a story, Alopecia just happens to be mine.” As she fought her illness, depression and weight loss as well as trying to be strong for her family, her friends and family finally convinced her that it was :me to shave the remaining hair from her head as she accepted the boldness in her baldness, she turned a nega:ve reac:on into a posi:ve and responded beau:fully. Through these challenges, Elmore and her daughter have grown strong together as both have become lecturers, authors and ac:vist, sharing their experiences in the hopes of inspiring others around the world. Through ASG her message is spread around the world through lectures, media (radio and television) represen:ng Alopecia sufferers, giving them hope that all is not lost, that change can be a beau:ful, strengthening and enlightening experience. According to Elmore, even in the face of adversity the only percep:on one must adhere to is self percep:on. The love of self first and then the love from others will follow. Alopecia forced her to re-evaluate percep:on, that the outside pales in comparison to what is inside of you. People change, we can’t escape that, but how we accept our change, embrace our change can make the difference in whether the growth is posi:ve or nega:ve. Elmore and ASG want to make sure your experience is as posi:ve as possible. “What comes to my mind and I say it oSen is, the mirror,” explains Elmore. “What do you see when you look in the mirror? The mirror doesn’t lie, steal or cheat, it’s honest, it calls you by name. So when you look in the mirror of your life are you happy? If you’re not we have the ability to change what we see in the mirror and it’s not necessarily the physical mirror, I am more than my hair.”

! ! !

! To contact Jamie for questions, one on one coaching, speaking engagements or workshops, go to http://.alopeciasupport.org or at https://www.facebook.com/alopeciasupportgroup/

Healing Within I had just started attending a new church, seeking healing that I knew would have to start on the inside of me. I felt as if I didn’t love myself, which implied there was no way I could love or show love to others. Healing would have to begin before I could move forward. Anger, frustration, fear, hopelessness, shame, remorse, and sadness are some of the emotions that we hold on to and allow ourselves to eventually begin to believe that we are “a nobody” and don’t measure up. We also allow others to destroy us by looking down on us or making us feel unworthy. Our deliverance never depends on someone else’s opinion. When we allow God to come in and administer healing, then we can begin to see ourselves the way God sees us. We are forgiven and perfect in His eyes. God loves us and wants the very best for our lives so that we can love others with a pure heart. Therefore, my heart had to be healed from within so that I could love myself, as well as, love others. We can look good on the outside: have the right clothes on, hair together, and matching from head to toe, but it’s what’s on the inside that needs transformation. None of us are perfect, by any means, in our own selves. It takes a little work, and we can’t do it alone. We need the presence of God in our lives. There were old wounds that I thought I had grown pass, but as God spoke to my heart every Sunday, things slowly began to vanish away. Just remember, “being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it...” (Phil 1:6). Joyce Jones Joyce Jones retired in 2017, after beginning her career in 2005, from the Medical field. During that time,she started off as a Certified Nursing Assistant, became a Cardiac Tech monitoring heart rates, and worked in Behavioral Health, at the Medical Center in Bowling Green Ky. She earned an Associate of Science Degree from Western Kentucky University in 2009. Ms. Jones is now writing a book that will be complete by 2018. She resides in Smiths Grove Kentucky a native of Bowling Green Kentucky.

JC&me DESIGNER DEBUTS INSPIRATIONAL LINE OF APPAREL AT FALL TRUNK SHOW –By:

Mary E. Jefferson

Designer, Jamie Y. Keith will introduce—JC&me—an exclusive couture label of women’s apparel, family attire and accessory items at an upcoming Fall Trunk Show. This pre-holiday event will take place at the Heyburn Building Lobby, 332 W. Broadway in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, November 11th from 6:00-9:00pm. The event will also include hors d’ouerves, music, live entertainment, and door prizes. Five (5) other women-owned entrepreneurs including Foxy Feet, the event fashion shoe sponsor, will be on location for an elegant, get-down and funky pop-style extravaganza. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25, Day-of-Show. Proceeds will honor Veteran’s Day and the men and women of the military. Veterans will also receive a 20% discount on all merchandise.

JC&me will showcase Keith’s designer Tees and a sleek show of vintage, contemporary and blinged-out jewelry. A diverse and inclusive team of models has been invited to strut, twirl and rip the trunk show runway. Guests should expect a spectacular show of swing and sway—destined for a new swag in regional couture. An exciting evening of social and fashion engagement serves to enhance the glitz and mystique of Old Hollywood Glamour in the age of Dorothy Dandridge, Audrey Hepburn and Lena Horne. Three lucky winners will also win FREE GIVEAWAYS.

ABOUT JAMIE Y. KEITH...STYLEMAKER AND DESIGNER

Jamie Y. Keith considers herself a, “child of the King,” who is willing to shout, "Glory,” with a ministry that reflects a lifestyle of service, fashion and style making. A childhood vested in the arts, entertainment and design, she matriculated from the University of Louisville and earned a B. S. degree in Workforce Leadership Development from the College of Education (2010). According to a woman with a whimsical nature, JC&me is her testimony about God's grace and mercy referenced in the power of Philippians 4:13 which is a personal declaration: "I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me."

The JC&me designer label is offered to its clients and persons of interest as a Balm in Gilead for the weary with encouragement through scripture, poetry and musical sound. The brand name was originally conceptualized in 2007. About the JC&me imprint, Keith says, "The word 'me' is written in lower-case because I know my place in this equation: giving personal burdens and control over my life to the One who loved me first, the most and the best!” Jamie is an Associate Minister of Bates Memorial Baptist Church and Administrative Coordinator with the Kingdom Academy, an after-school enrichment program at Bates Community Development Corporation. She is also the proudest mother of Imani Violet Keith, a marching band (drumline) member at Simmons College of Kentucky.

For Ticket Information: 502.821.6840 or jamiekeith50@gmail.com Mary E. Jefferson is a Louisville writer, educator and founding partner of The CERA Group, LLP. ©Photo: Courtesy of Jamie Y. Keith, 2017

JC &me Fall Trunk Show Vintage, Bling and Contemporary Apparel & Accessories

The Historic Heyburn Building –Lobby 332 West Broadway ~ Saturday ~ November 11, 2017 ~ 6:00pm-9:00pm

~ Hors d’ Oeuvres ~ Live Performances ~ Door Prizes & More! ~

Show Highlight: Women Entrepreneur Exhibitors Advance Tickets: $20.00 Day of Show: $25.00 (Proceeds Benefit Veterans)

I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 For Ticket Info: 502.821.6840

A special visual piece presented by: Chea K. Woolfolk & Craig Shanklin

Black Men Are Power. THE

POWER

IMAGERY

The moment of complete disgust with the images and constant negative comments regarding black men came one Monday morning. After a weekend in my hometown that was riddled with violence and the increasing media spin that simply threw the blame at black men I realized I was truly hurt but what I saw. I begin to see through different eyes. I read stories and social media comments with a different heart. This heart was troubled and these eyes heavy with an almost numbing weight of concern.

To say all black men are criminals or have no worth is such a demeaning statement yet, I was reading it almost on repeat that morning. My heart become heavy but my mind started to race with questions. How do we stop this stereotypical response from society? How do we address the lack of real media representation black men do not receive? Why are black men and their power constantly being chiseled away by modern day society? What is all this negative imagery doing to the black community? Its children? The very men who are the suffering in silence subjects? I knew I could not change the world all at once but I could take small steps. The images that are constantly being pushed down our throats are negative and I aim to change that. The Black Men Are Power photoshoot and subsequent events are meant to not only uplift black men but showcase the positive contributions they make to global life.

Chea K. Woolfolk

What does it mean to be a black man in America in 2017? The road to navigate life from being a small black boy to the grown black tycoon is full of land mines and setbacks that would make a good Steven King novel. This horror story would consist of neglect, legalized discrimination, deception, castigation and a propaganda campaign that has been running in the background for over 50 years. We should try to navigate the potholes and avoid being murdered before the age of 21. Avoid being arrested without good representation and end up serving time for a crime we didn’t commit, as a childhood friend of mine did. The system is rigged and anyone who doesn’t want to acknowledge that is living in the matrix of a false reality. A s my neighbor ranted and raved the other day about the ungrateful NFL players who should not be protesting and should not disrespect the flag or find another country to live in, he also reminded me and my father that blacks commit way more crimes in America than whites do, and I had to physically restrain my father from wanting to jump my fence after him…I had to think quickly and defuse the situation and my dad left feeling upset and grumbling about the interaction while I continued to paint my deck. After a while my neighbor reappeared and we continued to talk casually about sports as he wanted to make some statements that would lead me to believe he wasn’t a Trump clone and a victim of carefully orchestrated propaganda.

Now I know at this point many of you reading this are probably thinking about what you would’ve said and what I should’ve done to combat these clear racial jabs at my people and my place in this world. However, what I will say is that the younger version of me would not have handled it very well and I would’ve quickly went from 0 to 100 and threatened him and his way of life and we both would be brandishing weapons to resolve it. I’ve grown past that at the ripe old age of 52. I understand now more than ever that what has been happening in America for a very long time is that whites and blacks watch the news with two different lenses of the eye. They are constantly being programmed to see us as predators who create problems and kill without even remotely thinking of our actions. The propaganda feeds them false narratives about crime statistics and who commits them. Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, and Bill Clinton have set the black community back 100 years between them as told in the Oscar nominated Netflix documentary “Thirteen”. In this thought-provoking documentary, scholars, activists and politicians analyze the criminalization of African Americans and the U.S. prison boom. It’s an alarming look behind the curtain for many people who cannot follow the bouncing ball of current events and connect the dots. The statistics don’t lie, there is a propaganda plan in place to separate the races, and to root out any empathy that white people should have for the conditions that have been placed upon black and brown people in the U.S. If there is no empathy or apathy for the plight of the black man he can be shot dead in the street without a trial. I know the road that I’ve traveled was full of these types. The person on my job who believes I should be thankful that I was allowed to be an engineer. I should be thankful that I’m allowed to go on vacations and drive foreign cars or wear nice suits, and lastly to even live next door to my neighbors in a nice neighborhood. I have reminded them all along the way that we are not all meant to be the same and that I am not the same as they are, and that this is a good thing. At the end of the day I know that as black men we have to be able to resolve conflict by simply walking away and understanding that enlightenment escapes the mind that gravitates toward the dark.

The beautiful documentary on James Baldwin called “I am not your Negro” lends insight to one of the most brilliant minds of his time. As he so eloquently stated “To be a Negro in this country, and to be relatively conscious is to be in a rage almost all of the time. – James Baldwin. I could’ve been in a rage when my neighbor displayed his ignorance, but as I think about me I feel sorry for him. I have earned the right to be the man that I am. I have the scars to prove my resilience and my determination were not for waste. How the world views me is not my problem, it’s their problem. I only owe it to myself to exist in the state of being that I choose. I get to choose my greatness. I get to be as many of these incredible black men you see in this photo shoot on display with grace and dignity. We are so much more than killers, and drug dealers, and athletes. We are fathers and grandfathers, uncles and nephews, brothers, and sons, and friends to be depended on. We are all navigating our lives and trying to find love and acceptance in a world that is constantly reneging on its promise that all men are created equal and should be treated as such.

However, greatness is within our very DNA and until we look inward and love the skin we are in and water ourselves we cannot grow past the limitation that society tries to place on us. I have no ceilings and neither does any other black man who seeks and finds his inner self. If Martin and Malcom can be great so can you. No matter how gifted our athletes are, do not believe for one second that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve only been gifted to run fast, jump high, catch a ball, throw a ball, or bounce a ball. Intelligence is in all of us and it too can be cultivated the same way we practice a sport with the determination it takes to become a professional. I am proud to be a black man. So, as I listened to the ridiculous narrative that my neighbor espoused I realized that ignorance is free. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cost a thing to be ignorant, uninformed and fed a pack of lies by a media machine that has convinced much of America that to stand for the flag by choice is un-American, but to be forced to stand is not fascism but patriotism in some reversal of logic. I pitied him because as I looked over at his large pristine home, with his plush green yard, and four cars. I realized that he is poor, because someone has stolen from him what they have not been able to steal from me and many black men before me. They have stolen his ability to decipher the truth and his privileged mindset of dignity and class has left him without either. Lastly, this is a call to all of those who would be willing to set an example for our young brilliant black boys to step up and give an encouraging word or a hug to one and tell him he is destined for greatness. Without encouragement a young black male is a flower without water left to wither and die.

We at Chea K. Woolfolk the Magazine, support our viewership and readers and continue to provide a voice for the black community and the black experience. We appreciate all of the support and will continue to strive for excellence. Shout out to all of the incredible black men who participated in the photoshoot! By Craig Shanklin Sr.

Yusuf Bibb (America's Shinning Prince), is a 30year-old Louisville native and community leader. His dedication and commitment to improving the conditions of the community are expressed through many different channels such as: CEO of Amalgamated Order Enterprise, The Cypher 360 Healing Campaign, Money Behind the Dreams Project, Urban Agriculture, Civics Classes, Financial Course, Free Tutoring Sessions, music, poetry, hosting a radio show called "Juz Radio", Young entrepreneur workshop, community activist, motivational speaking, a series of panels, recruiter for programs such as 502 Fathers, zones of hope, hope by hope, posted on 2 Billboards in the Smoketown neighborhood, father, husband and a variety of other active roles that he plays in the community.

Courtney Lamont Phelps currently serves as the Director of Government Affairs for New Legacy Reentry Corporation. Courtney is a Louisville native, Howard University Alum, and a 2011 graduate of the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law. A former Lay Speaker, and United Methodist Church Treasurer, Courtney loveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s God, ministering and motivational speaking. Courtney has volunteered for and served on the boards of several local nonprofit organizations, and anticipates a run for public office in 2018. In his spare time Courtney enjoys spending time with family, friends, fraternity brothers and helping others pursue their God given talents, dreams and goals. Courtney sends a huge shout out to the Chea K. Woolfolk Magazine for believing in and supporting Black men. You can connect with Courtney by sending an email to courtney@phelps4mayor.c om

Tony Hobson is not only a retired truck driver but a seasoned Actor, Singer and Student . With a heart to serve and enhance the community you can often catch Tony assisting others to support and uplift.

Raashaan Myers is the cohost of the Main Event Sports Radio Show which comes to you every Saturday from 6-7pm on 104.7 WLOU. Main Event is the longest running sports show in the city of Louisville and the only black owned and operated terrestrial sports radio show in the region. Myers has been working in the media business for over 13 years and have spent the last 6 as part of Main Event. They are passionate about sports but even more passionate about giving back to the community which prompted them to start M.E.L.A. which stands for Main Event Leadership Academy which focuses on getting inner city kids excited about opportunities in all areas of media/journalism. There is a serious lack of African American presence in the sports media industry and M.E.L.A. is there to make a difference. You can check out everything they do at their website Maineventsports101.com or by downloading the app search keywords "Main Event Sports.

Dr. Shannon C. Cook is The CEO of CookPire LLC a multifaceted business that is empowering others to fulfill their dreams. Dr. Cook is also the CEO of The Russell Vision Development Center a non-profit organization that is infusing vision into the hearts and minds of people living in the Russell Neighborhood in Metro Louisville. Dr. Cook is known as the Millionaire Maker. He Specializes in making the Dreams of Others come to pass! Contact: ShannonCCook.Org Email: DrCook12@Gmail.Co m Facebook: Shannon Christopher Cook Phone:(502) 7099188

Antonio Boykin, is 46 and was born in Indianapolis, IN. He is the founder and president of The ChangeU Foundation, a Youth & Homeless Outreach which is headquartered in ever expanding Louisville, KY. He currently mentors between 30 and 50 at-risk youth and serve/feed approximately 800 homeless a month.

Kameron Montgomery, is 21 years old and the youngest African American entrepreneur in the city of Louisville, Kentucky, on top of that achievement he is a Biology Major, and full-time student at JCTC. Montgomery started his own business called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Montgomery Integrated Networking Company LLC.â&#x20AC;? on March 14, 2017. The mission of the business is to have multiple businesses (Integrate) underneath one brand and being able to Network within his own business. As he works to build the business from the ground up, his goal is to also build opportunity for those who never had the opportunity.

"Rob Moore is a West Louisville native who credits his success to his family and the village that help shaped him to becoming the man he is today. Rob is a proud father to his 11-year-old daughter, Nyla. Rob is a graduate of Spalding University and Vanderbilt Divinity School. He currently works as a Workforce Development Specialist at KentuckianaWorks for The SummerWorks and REimage Program by helping youth get connected to employment opportunities in the Louisville Metro area.â&#x20AC;?

Langston E. Gaither is a married, thirty-three-year-old father of 2 beautiful girls, and a product of Simmons of Kentucky. He is also a former firefighter at Lake Dreamland Fire and Rescue and Founder/Owner of Gaither Design Company. Among his achievements is being the inventor of many bioindustrial products. His Most famous invention is known as HardKnox Impact Pads which is designed to reduce concussions for football players.

Currently, he is the Executive Director of Family Life Center, Inc. As Director, his mission is to promote education, health and to systematically eradicate social and public isolation. Gaither is instrumental in the creation of programs and raising of funds for all who visit the more than 30,000 square feet at the FLC.

Gaither is known as a Louisville Socialite as he is well connected to both those in the streets and those that wear suits. Due to his prominent position and positive attitude, look for Langston to continue to make an impact for the 65,000 + residents that make up West Louisville

Larry Holden

Savvy Kareem-Abdul Shabazz is a native of Paducah, KY. He is a graduate of the University of Louisville where he earned his bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Pan African Studies. He is a case manager with Reimage; a program that provides links to training and employment to at risk young adults ages 18 to 24 who are involved in the court system. Previously, he was the Lead Organizer for Zones of Hope at the Louisville Urban League (LUL) where he worked to improve the livelihood and outcomes for young black men and boys ages 16-27 in the neighborhoods of Louisville, KY. He connects individuals to employment leads, educational leads leadership skills and much more. Contact Mr. Shabazz on social media at https//www.Facebook.co m/Spanktacula or @ShabazzLifeCoac and Savvykashabazz@gmail .com

Antonio T-Made Taylor is an On-Air Personality and Owner/Operator of The Turn Up Show With T-Made and Friends which airs live in the Louisville market on 104.7FM. He is a Graduate of Seneca High School C/O 93 Where he was voted "Most Talented" upon Graduation and was awarded an Honorary Scholarship from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Antonio studied Film and Communications at The Arts Institute of Atlanta. He is the former host of Da Show TV and was a Producer at Def Jam Records under Jo JO Brimm's Burn Unit Productions. He is also a selfproclaimed Hip Hop Historian, and Community Activist. Antonio is now a student at Simmons College of Kentucky where he is earning his Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Communications. In his spare time, he loves to act working as a thespian who prefers scripts around social content and historical events. He is married to Nyree Clayton-Taylor of Louisville, Ky. and has two sons and one step daughter.

Anthony D. Richardson, 32, is a married father of two. He was born and raised in the Westend of Louisville, KY. Currently, he is a certified teacher in Jefferson County. He is also the founder of Inside the Lines Training, Inc. This nonprofit organizations mission is to enrich students & student-athletes with tools to excel academically; to develop characteristics of leadership, while enhancing their athletic foundation.

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FOOD & BEVERAGE

3 things you'll need to throw the ultimate tailgating party Article contributed by: BPT

Football season is finally upon us and fans everywhere are getting revved up to cheer on their favorite team. Whether you watch the big game from the comfort of your home or head down to the stadium, it's the perfect time to throw the mother of all football celebrations - a really big tailgating party. Tailgating is a chance to enjoy (or brave) the fall weather and bond with friends over the anticipation of football. At its peak, stadium tailgating can turn into a free-flowing block party that anyone can crash. Whether at home on the deck or camped out at the stadium, an unforgettable day of tailgating starts with a good plan and the right mindset. Whatever you do, be sure and roll out the welcome mat and tackle the tailgating experience head on, creating the ultimate football party zone. 1. Up your grill game You can't tailgate without great food and mountains of meat. That means this is a good time to evaluate your outdoor cooking gear. Consider adding a second grill, and you'll have plenty of extra cooking space to feed the crowd. One great addition to your lineup is the Black 3-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill by Char-Broil, available at Lowe's. It's easy to start so you'll have those extra burgers, steaks or chicken wings sizzling right away. Explore other additions to your grilling kit to help you fix up a memorable feast. Invest in that smoker you always wanted so you can perfect your brisket recipe and make your tailgate party an instant fan favorite. Nowadays, portable grills come with larger cooking spaces, so you can keep those bellies filled while making the trip to the stadium much easier.

#to uch dow n

2. Make room for the crowd Wherever you tailgate, meeting new people is part of the fun and tradition, so be prepared for extras. Take a look at your seating situation and add folding chairs so you'll always have space for special guests. When people are enjoying the spread of snacks, appetizers and sides, extra tables will keep the buffet well-organized with plenty of elbow room. Finally, preparation will keep everyone comfortable through that unpredictable fall weather. A spacious pop-up canopy or two with your team's colors and logo can keep the party going and those spirits up whether the day brings intense sun or a chilly fall drizzle. 3. Get everyone off their feet Tailgating is not just hanging out for a couple hours in a parking lot; it can last an entire day. Break up the lull and get everyone on their feet with some yard games. You could always purchase some game sets, but with a little effort and the help of some power tools, you can build your own. Building a few sets of cornhole boards and ring toss games is easier than you think. Or you can keep it casual with homemade diced darts made with giant foam dice. A high-stakes giant-sized balancing block tower game is a sure way to amp up the excitement. In any case, a bit of friendly competition creates the perfect ice breaker for any gathering. Lowe's is the place where you can find everything you need to create the ultimate tailgating experience that will please any fan. Find more creative tailgating ideas at lowes.com.

5 tips to make family mealtimes more mindfulÂ Written By: BPT

The hectic workday is over. As you pull into your driveway, you feel relief because you've finally escaped the cranky co-workers, the deadlines and traffic jams. Now you can spend the next few hours relaxing at home with your family. What better way to enjoy this time than with a delicious meal together? Sometimes, the lingering stress can be hard to shake, especially if you're in a rush to get dinner on the table. You can shed your stress and make this time together more meaningful. Consciously ease into the transition from work mode to family mode, and use these tips to make your evening meal more relaxing and mindful. 1. Take a breath. As soon as you get home, just take a few minutes and chill out. What you'll want to do is shake off any lingering "fight or flight" stress response that's making you feel tense and on edge. With deep breathing techniques - the kind that get your belly moving - you'll lower your heart rate and feel much calmer. Sit in your favorite chair, soften your gaze and start those long, drawn-out inhales and exhales, counting your breath if needed. Just by transitioning into this calmer state, you'll set the right mood and standard for the rest of the evening. 2. Give the devices a timeout. Being mindful is all about staying in the present and following each action with intention and awareness. But when your mobile device is pinging from the latest Facebook update, text message or news alert, that can distract us from this calm and aware state of mind. For now, while you're preparing and eating the meal, put the devices out of reach - or in another room, if that's practical. 3. Include the kids. With devices out of the way, it's also much easier and more pleasant to focus on the people in the room. If your kids are hanging around the kitchen, take it as a sign they want to be with you, so use this time to connect. A great way to do this is to include kids with the meal preparation. The youngest ones can rinse fruits and vegetables, cut soft foods with a butter knife and tear lettuce. Older kids can help measure ingredients, stir and whisk, and eventually peel foods with a paring knife.

4. Simplify your menu. Eliminate the stress of getting weeknight meals on the table, and build a list of delicious go-to meals that you can prepare with ease. For example, this recipe for Easy Shrimp Kabobs will allow you to get the entrĂŠe ready in minutes, plus the skewers and easy dips will make this a fun favorite with the kids. For more ideas and inspiration to make the weeknight meals more mindful and relaxing, visit seapak.com/recipes. 5. Slow down and savor the food. Give yourself a few moments for mindful eating. Before earnest conversation begins, put your focus on the food you've taken the time to prepare. Put down your fork, and pay attention to the flavors, the textures and how you respond to them. No matter how hungry you are, don't rush. Mindful eating is all about pacing yourself and staying in the moment to experience the delicious meal you are eating. After a long day, you can make the evening meal more relaxing and enjoyable by bringing a mindful approach to dinnertime. When it's time to eat, you'll be in the right state of mind to enjoy your food, as will the people around you. Easy Shrimp Kabobs Serves 4 Ingredients 1 12-ounce package SeaPack Popcorn Shrimp Wooden skewers Dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, barbecue sauce and ranch dressing Instructions Preheat oven to 450 Fahrenheit. Place shrimp on baking sheet in a single layer so shrimp are not touching. Bake 5 minutes on the middle oven rack, then turn shrimp over. Bake another 5-6 minutes until shrimp are hot and crispy. Using a fork to hold the hot shrimp in place, slide shrimp onto wooden skewers. Serve with small sides of sauces for each person. For example, use tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, barbecue sauce and ranch dressing. Source: The blog A Helicopter Mom via SeaPak.com.

FIVE STEPS TO BECOMING A TRUE PITMASTER

ARTICLE CONTRIBUTED BY: BPT

(BPT) - When the skies are blue and the sun is hot, some people hit the pool, drive to the nearest beach, kick back with a book on their deck, or fire up the grill.

If you're one of those people who sees every summer day as an opportunity for grilling, or if you have your smoker going at the same time your neighbors are running their snow blower, you're probably ready to take it to the next level.

How do you go from being an enthusiast to grilling and smoking meat like the best pitmasters? Here are five important steps to consider:

1. Use only the best quality ingredients. The best pitmasters and chefs will tell you that no matter your level of experience, if you don't have great ingredients you can't make a great meal. It's that simple. This is as true in fine French cooking as it is in barbecue. As the winner of Food Network's "Chopped: Grill Masters," Pitmaster Ernest Servantes insists on using high-quality, flavorful fresh pork products from Smithfield(R) to get that pork that is tender and juicy every time.

2. Find the right chips. When smoking fresh meat, the combination of charcoal and wood chips can take your flavor to the next level. Pecan, red oak, hickory, apple or mesquite woods all have their unique attributes and flavors. One isn't better than the other. It's more a matter of your personal style. Take the time to experiment and learn what kind of wood works best for your signature meats and taste preferences.

3. Keep the rub simple. Once you have an amazing rack of ribs or perfectly marbled pork shoulder or butt, the question is how to season them. People often get carried away, adding too many spices that ultimately overpower the taste of the meat. If you're cooking with a high-quality cut of meat, a simple rub will often yield the best results. For instance, a recipe for Cactus Jack Texas Spare Ribs uses a rub made up of salt, pepper, chili powder, granulated garlic and onions - just enough to bring out the true flavor of the ribs without being overpowering.

."Cactus Jack" Texas Spareribs Recipe by Chef Ernest Servantes for Smithfield Cactus Jack Rub 2 racks Smithfield(R) Pork Spareribs 1/4 cup kosher salt 1/4 cup cracked black pepper 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 1 tablespoon granulated onion 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon seasoned salt Ribs Oak or Pecan wood for smoking 1 cup apple juice, in a spray bottle Rattle Snake BBQ Sauce 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/2 cup diced yellow onion 2 tablespoons minced fresh jalapeño 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic 1/4 cup ketchup 1/4 cup Kingsford(R) Original Smoked Hickory BBQ Sauce 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup pepper-style soda 2 tablespoons molasses 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Kosher salt and cracked black pepper For "Cactus Jack" Rub, combine salt, pepper, garlic, onion, chili powder and seasoned salt in small bowl; mix well. Season ribs on all sides; cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least two hours.Heat smoker or grill for indirect cooking at 250°F.; add wood for smoking. Place ribs, meaty side up, and smoke for 2 1/2 hours, spraying with apple juice every 30 minutes.Meanwhile, for Rattle Snake BBQ Sauce, heat oil in heavy saucepan over high. Sauté onion, jalapeño and garlic until tender. Stir in remaining ingredients except salt and pepper, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until reduced in volume by 1/3. Remove from heat, season to taste with salt and pepper.Remove ribs from smoker; wrap each rack in heavy-duty aluminum foil. Return to smoker, meaty side down, for an additional two hours until internal temperature reaches 190°F to 200°F.Remove ribs from foil, place back on smoker and brush with Rattle Snake BBQ Sauce; cook for about 20 minutes. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.Makes: Two to four servings Prep time: 15 minutes plus 24 hours stand time Cook time: Five hours 15 minutes

4. Explore the world. There are many regional barbecue styles in the U.S.: Kansas City, Texas, Memphis and the list goes on. At a time when people are more adventurous in their culinary tastes than ever, try branching out from your normal go-to style and infuse some international flavors into your grilling. For instance, one recipe for Honey Soy Grilled Pork Chops Korean BBQ Sauce combines a medley of Asian flavors, teriyaki marinade, soy sauce and rice wine vinegar with an unmistakable barbecue kick. Honey Soy Grilled Pork Chops Korean BBQ Sauce Recipe by Chef Ernest Servantes for Smithfield Honey Soy Grilled Pork Chops 6 to 8 (4-oz.) Smithfield(R) Boneless Center Cut Pork Chops 1 cup KC Masterpiece(R) Honey Teriyaki Marinade 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 to 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon white or rice wine vinegar Korean BBQ Sauce 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup water 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce 4 teaspoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons minced ginger 2 teaspoons KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper and place in a large resealable food storage bag. Whisk together honey teriyaki marinade, oil, soy sauce and vinegar; mix well. Pour over pork chops; seal the bag and let stand 1 hour.For Korean BBQ Sauce, heat oil in small saucepan on medium; fry garlic until it begins to turn color. Stir in water, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, brown sugar, ginger and BBQ sauce. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes or until it becomes thick.Heat charcoal or gas grill to medium. Remove pork chops from marinade (discard marinade) grill for three minutes or until the pork chop easily releases from the grill. Flip chops and continue to cook for three more minutes until internal temperature reaches 145Â°F to 160Â°F.Baste each pork chop with Korean BBQ Sauce, grill one minute on each side. Let chops stand for three minutes before serving.Makes: Six to eight servings Prep Time: 10 minutes plus one hour marinade time Cook Time: 18 minutes

5. It's all about practice. Like a perfect golf swing, grilling or smoking the perfect rack of ribs or pork butt takes time and practice. Invite your friends or family over to practice your grilling or smoking of the best barbecue you ever had and remember that behind each one of those to-die-for bites were practice sessions to perfect your craft. So keep at it! Now that you're feeling inspired, why wait? Call up your friends, get out the grill or smoker, and be sure to have plenty of quality Smithfield Fresh Pork on hand! Because once those ribs and chops come off the grill, people are going to want more.

7 ways to snack like a pro

this football season Contributed By : BPT

Football season is quickly approaching, which means it will soon be time for tailgating or watching the big game on TV. For many of us, this time of year is tough on our diet and exercise plans, but it doesn't have to be, according to Bryan Snyder, registered dietitian and director of team nutrition for the Denver Broncos. Snyder, who is responsible for keeping the year-round nutrition strategies for the team's players on track, also knows the pitfalls for fans. "Nutrition goals can fall by the wayside when leisure time includes snacking or party fare," Snyder says. "We tend to make poor choices when it comes to snacking, earning it a bad rap. But in fact, by picking healthy and tasty options, anyone can come out a winner on game day." Snyder recommends these tips for better snacking in his healthy eating playbook for football season and throughout the year. 1. Plan ahead. Cut and slice your fruits and vegetables the day before you plan on eating them. That way when you find yourself hungry and ready for a snack, you will already have the hard part finished. Grab your pre-cut veggies and dip them in low-fat ranch dressing or hummus to help get you through the day. This is a great way to add some healthy vegetables to your tailgate menu. Perhaps you could make a strawberry banana smoothie with Greek yogurt the night before and leave the pitcher in the refrigerator for a quick grab-and-go snack as you run out the door. 2. Snack on foods that are healthy and will fill you up. How many times do we eat a snack and 10 minutes later we're hungry? The perfect snack strikes a great balance of healthy carbohydrates along with protein, fiber and antioxidants. One of the healthiest and best snacks is pistachios. With 1 ounce of pistachios, you get 6 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber, healthy fats and 6 percent of your daily value of iron. Plus, pistachios contain antioxidants, which help our immune systems stay strong and fight off diseases. One serving of pistachios contains only 160 calories. 3. Aim for whole grains. The last thing you probably think about as you get ready for the big game is setting out snacks that contain whole grains. However, eating whole grains may reduce your chances of developing chronic diseases like heart diseases, and incorporating whole grains isn't as hard as it seems. One option you could have available is whole grain crackers and cheese. Try whole grain Wheat Thins instead of potato chips as a healthy substitution. 4. Stay hydrated with water. Our bodies have a difficult time distinguishing between being hungry or thirsty. Often, we feel like we are hungry when in reality we simply may be thirsty and/or dehydrated. One study found that people who drink water 20-30 minutes before starting their meals eat about 75 fewer calories per meal. Considering we may be snacking for three hours while watching the game, these calories will add up.

5. Replace fatty protein with lean proteins. Hamburger sliders are a staple of many tailgating menus across the country, but sometimes we just want a good burger. While eating a fatty hamburger in moderation isn't the worst thing in the world, there are certainly some leaner options to choose. Instead of going to the grocery store and picking up the first piece of beef available to grill for the game, look at either a leaner beef option or a different meat altogether. For example, a better option for protein would be a 97 percent lean ground beef to make sliders or hamburgers. Another option would be to simply choose ground turkey instead of ground beef to make patties to throw on the grill. 6. Don't be afraid of veggies. Despite what your buddies may think, it is not against the law to eat vegetables at a tailgate party. More than likely, there will be some grilling before the big game. Don't be afraid to throw some zucchini, mushrooms or even asparagus on the grill to complement the other items you are cooking. You can also chop up some veggies and serve with low-fat ranch dressing or hummus. 7. Have a backup plan You might be heading to the game on Saturday or Sunday, and you plan on meeting up with some friends before the game to tailgate. In this case, you may have zero healthy choices to pick from while you are snacking and eating before the game. It is always good to have a backup plan. Healthy bars, nuts or a piece of whole fruit are easy and portable so you have a go-to backup plan. Trail mix and pistachios are easy to throw in your bag for the game or to have around your house for a snack. Plan ahead and bring some small snacks with you, so you don't indulge in hours of unhealthy snacking, like my Pistachio and Date Energy Bites (recipe below). Great for tailgating, this portable and delicious snack is healthy and gives a great variety of protein and antioxidants to not only fill you up, but give you an immune system boost as well. Pistachio and Date Energy Bites Serves 20-25 Ingredients: 1 cup dried cherries 8 ounces dates 1/2 cup local honey 1 1/2 cups rolled oats 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips 1 tablespoon chia seeds 1 tablespoon flax meal 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 cup pistachios (shelled) Pinch of Kosher salt 3/4 cup pistachios (Finely ground) Instructions: Combine dates, honey, chia seeds, flax meal and salt in food processor and mix. Add small amount of honey if it's too thick. Remove and add to mixing bowl. Incorporate pistachios, cherries, oats and dark chocolate chips, and mix until combined. Use desired portion scoop or portion by hand. Roll bites in finely ground pistachios, coating the whole bite. Store in the refrigerator.

A celebrity chef's secrets to building a Â better sandwich

Article Contributed By: BPT

A great sandwich is a delicious meal choice, which could be why about 60 percent of American adults eat at least one for lunch every week and 70 percent pack one or more in their children's lunches, according to food industry trend-watching company Datassential. In fact, sandwiches are so popular and so common that at some point in the past you've probably made or eaten a lackluster sandwich. However, every sandwich has the potential to be great - or at least better - says celebrity chef and sandwich expert Tom Colicchio. Sandwich starters Americans eat more cold-cut sandwiches than any other kind, while burgers, poultry, hot dogs, other meats and peanut butter and jelly round out the six most commonly eaten types of sandwiches, according to the USDA's Agricultural Research Service. Whatever you decide to put in your sandwich, always start with the freshest ingredients available, Colicchio advises. "There's no substitute for a perfectly ripe piece of produce." "Create and customize sandwiches to fit your and your family's palettes, not what the latest trends tell you to eat," he says. "At the same time, don't be afraid to experiment. One of the best things about sandwiches is the endless potential to create something new and delicious. If an experiment doesn't work out, you can always try again tomorrow!"

NOMADIC

In fact, more than one-third of consumers say they love sandwiches because of the ability to customize their meal by choosing from a variety of proteins, vegetables, cheeses and condiments, Datassential reports. Building better sandwiches "The architecture of a sandwich is as important as what you put in it," Colicchio says. "I think there's an actual science behind building the better sandwich." Colicchio, the James Beard Award-winning founder of Craft Hospitality and 'wichcraft, offers some tips to help ensure every sandwich you make is the best it can be: * The bread is the foundation of every sandwich, and it should be as sturdy as it is delicious. You can find a variety of quality options from Arnold, Brownberry or Oroweat in the bread aisle of your local grocery store. * When dealing with messier ingredients like roasted vegetables or condiments such as dressing, try lightly toasting or searing one side of each slice of bread in a pan atop the stove, until the side is crisp. Stack with the toasted sides facing in to help build a strong foundation for your sandwich. * Build from the bottom up. Place the driest and heaviest ingredients on the bottom slice of bread first before adding toppings like lettuce and tomato. Spread condiments on the second slice of bread as the last step before topping the sandwich. * For cold sandwiches, place the cheese next to the bread to help reinforce the stability of the sandwich. For hot sandwiches, place the cheese next to the meat so the flavors can interplay properly. * To avoid sogginess and ensure consistent seasoning throughout, dress greens before placing them on the sandwich. * Don't go crazy with condiments. "The more you mix them, the more muddled the flavor becomes," Colicchio says. "Pick one that will really accentuate the flavors you're highlighting." * Finally, don't overload your sandwich to ensure your ingredients won't fall out or leave a mess behind when you take a bite. Bite into better Looking for sandwich inspiration? The America's Better Sandwich Contest, hosted by Arnold, Brownberry and Oroweat Breads, gives entrants the chance to hone their skills by creating delicious and nutritious sandwiches that feature the breads as the base. Visit www.americasbettersandwich.com for recipe inspiration, contest rules and to find out how to enter. Meanwhile, try the contest's winning sandwich recipe from last year: Moroccan Rainbow Carrot Sandwiches with Spicy Orange Dressing I

ngredients: 2 slices of Arnold, Brownberry or Oroweat Whole Grains Oatnut Bread, toasted 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon harissa 1 tablespoon orange marmalade 1/4 teaspoon each of ground coriander and ground cumin 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 pinch each of salt and black pepper 3 medium assorted rainbow carrots, shaved into long ribbons with a vegetable peeler 1/2 cup loosely packed arugula 2 teaspoons fresh mint, chiffonade 2 tablespoons golden raisins 2 tablespoons chopped roasted pistachios 3 tablespoons crumbled feta 1/4 cup roasted garlic hummus Directions: In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, harissa, marmalade coriander, cumin, cinnamon, salt and pepper. Add the carrots, arugula, mint and raisins. Toss mixture and let sit for five minutes. Gently stir in the pistachios and feta. Spread hummus over each slice of toast, and top with the carrot mixture.

Mangos bring families together around the world CONTRIBUTED BY : BPT

Ayesha Curry was raised by great women who instilled in her a passion for cooking. This passion has helped Ayesha both launch her career and prioritize spending time with her family in the kitchen. But even as a celebrity chef, author and foodie, Ayesha sometimes struggles to think of new, wholesome and delicious meals to bring to her table. When she finds herself needing a little food inspiration, Ayesha turns to the experiences and flavors of her childhood. Mango love runs deep Ayesha grew up with a Jamaican grandmother who had mango trees in her backyard, so eating and cooking with the fruit reminds her of home. A lot of people don't know this, but mango is the world's most popular fruit and iconic in many cuisines across the globe. While its sweetness and versatility make it a perfect addition to any favorite dish, mango is also delicious on its own and is often simply paired with the spices of the country. In Ayesha's home, not only does everyone love mango for its incredible flavor, but because it's a superfruit. At 100 calories per cup, mangos are packed with vitamins and nutrients, and are a good source of fiber, making them a perfect food for any family. Make it with mango! When Ayesha is in the mood for something special and with a little cultural flare, she whips up her JerkRubbed Chicken Skewers and Mango Salsa. Jerk chicken is a family-favorite recipe for Ayesha, and adding the sweet flavor of mango gives it a delicious twist.

Jerk-Rubbed Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa Servings: 4-6 skewers

Ingredients: Mango Salsa 2 cups mango, chopped 1/4 cup red onion 1/4 cup cilantro 1/2 tbs lime juice 1 tsp jalapeno, finely diced 1/4 tsp salt and pepper

Jerk Chicken Rub & Skewers 3 cloves minced garlic 3 tbs olive oil 1 shallot, finely minced 1 tbs fresh thyme leaves, finely minced 1 tbs brown sugar 1 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp ground clove 1/2 tsp ground allspice 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 1/2 tsp ground black pepper 1 pound chicken breast, cubed Skewers, soaked in water

Instructions: Mango Salsa

Combine all ingredients. Let sit and allow flavors to meld while you prepare the chicken. Jerk Chicken Rub & Skewers Mix all dry ingredients together in a bowl. Coat cubed chicken well with the rub. Marinate for 30 minutes or more. Skewer 4-6 pieces of chicken per stick. Cook on a grill pan at medium high heat. Turn frequently to avoid burning. Cook for about 15 minutes or until juices run clear. Place the chicken on or off the skewer and spoon the Mango Salsa on top. Get your hands on a perfect mango Mangos are available year-round, so you can always get your hands on a perfect mango. If you'd like to make mango your go-to ingredient, here are some tips and tricks Ayesha shares with family and friends: Selection. To find a ripe mango, just squeeze gently. A ripe mango will be slightly soft like a peach or avocado.Ripening. Keep unripe mangos at room temperature. Once ripe, mangos can be moved to the refrigerator to slow down ripening for several days.Cutting. To cut a mango, simply slice off the sides of the fruit, avoiding the large seed in the center. Once you have these two sides, you can slice or dice as needed. Then, simply scoop it out of the skin. You can also cut around the seed to get two extra slices of mango and let your kids gnaw on the seed!Mangos at the grocery store While there are many mango varieties to covet, Ayesha's kids love Honey mangos because they're super sweet and creamy! Here's a quick look at the most common mango varieties you'll find in U.S. grocery stores: Honey. Sweet, creamy and vibrant yellow. Small wrinkles appear when fully ripe. Peak availability is March - June. Francis. Rich, spicy and sweet, with yellow skin and green overtones. Peak availability is April - June. Haden. Rich in flavor with fine fibers, often bright red with green and yellow overtones. Peak availability is March - May. Keitt. Sweet and fruity, with juicy flesh, limited fibers and green skin. Peak availability is July - September. Kent. Sweet and rich, dark green mangos with red blush. Peak availability is December - February and June - August. Tommy Atkins. Mild and sweet, these dark red mangos are the most widely grown variety coming into the U.S. Peak availability is March - July and September - October. Who will you share the mango love with today?

Visit www.mango.org for additional information on mango nutrition, selection tips, cutting methods and much more.

Special Report

Organic produce becomes mainstream

By BPT

T.The organics category is becoming mainstream, as it is purchased by shoppers across all demographics. Recently, the category grew in just about every measurable way: in volume, dollars spent, and even in conversations in the media. When consumers dabble in organic produce, they are more likely to purchase organic goods throughout the entire store and outside the store-like organic snacks or organic cotton sheets. This means it is important for retailers that sell organic products across departments to pay attention to trends in organic produce. The organic shopper Casual shoppers are the segment adding growth to the organic category, meaning that sometimes they purchase organic produce, and sometimes they purchase conventional. "Organics are becoming mainstream, and shoppers are beginning to choose organic items over conventional items," says Michael Castagnetto, vice president of sourcing for Robinson Fresh. "In our survey with U.S. consumers who buy produce, we found that 51 percent of respondents purchased organic produce and of those, 73 percent purchased both conventional and organic produce during the same trip." Research indicated that the organic shopper of today is most likely under the age of 35 or has young children living at home. Organic purchases are also highly correlated to household income. When it comes to tailoring a shopping experience, it's important to target Millennials because of their enormous commercial force, but consider the preferences of all generations. Millennials, Generation X and Baby Boomers all show a preference for organic produce as a destination within the store. Why organic is becoming mainstream "In the past, purchasing anything organic was an emotional-based purchase," continues Castagnetto. "However, for today's casual shopper, organic purchases are increasingly becoming more of an impulse purchase. The way that produce is merchandised makes a difference in how consumers make purchasing decisions."

How organic produce is purchased Organic items are an impulse purchase more than 30 percent of the time. Within the organics category, impulse purchases are two times more likely on items that index higher as healthy snacking options-such as berries and grapes. Here are the top 4 factors driving impulse organic purchases: * The freshness and quality of the produce: 73 percent of respondents ranked this as a top driving factor * The price of the produce: 61 percent of respondents rank this as a top driving factor * The packaging the produce comes in * Whether the organic produce is locally grown To learn about who is buying organic produce and gain insight into the reasons why those consumers are choosing organic, Robinson Fresh(R) conducted a survey with U.S. consumers who buy produce-both conventional and organic. The full survey results can be found at www.robinsonfresh.com.

SEPTEMBER IS BETTER BREAKFAST MONTH.Â

WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT? RESEARCH PROVES A BIG BREAKFAST IS THE FIRST STEP

ARTICLE CONTRIBUTED BY: BPT

If you want to lose weight, you're not alone. More than half of Americans desire to shed pounds, according to Gallup. This goal inspires people to take action in many ways, from increasing exercise to modifying meals.

One thing many people do is skip breakfast in order to lower calorie intake. While this may seem like a good idea to lose weight, research proves otherwise. In fact, eating a big breakfast followed by smaller meals throughout the day is the best method for weight loss. A new study in The Journal of Nutrition investigated the relation between meal frequency and timing and changes in body mass index (BMI). The study found that "eating less frequently, no snacking, consuming breakfast and eating the largest meal in the morning may be effective methods for preventing long-term weight gain." "When you eat your meal matters," says Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner. "The best way to eat for energy and weight is to eat a big breakfast, smaller lunch and light dinner because it mimics our days' activities."

Blatner explains that people are typically most active in the beginning of the day and so need the most fuel then. They slow down as the day progresses, and by dinnertime they need less fuel. "But it's not just about eating anything in the morning," she cautions. "It's important to pick nutrient-dense foods to fuel your day right." Blatner provides three tips for creating a wholesome breakfast that will give you energy and support your weight-loss goals: 1. Fruits and veggies Wake up your taste buds and give your body important vitamins by eating a rainbow of colorful fruits and veggies. Try shopping the farmers market for locally sourced in-season produce. A quick frittata with egg and chopped veggies or a smoothie bowl topped with fresh fruit will satisfy. If fresh produce isn't available, frozen has optimum nutrients so it is a smart alternative. 2. Whole grains Make whole grains part of your breakfast and you'll feel fuller for longer. Oatmeal is a classic whole-grain breakfast option. Use whole-grain pancake mix to whip up some flapjacks. Bake muffins with whole-grain flour. Make cornbread with whole cornmeal. When shopping for cereal or other breakfast products, look at the label to ensure it's made with whole grains.

3. Proteins Eggs are a great source of protein and nutrients for breakfast, but not all eggs are created equal. Swap out ordinary eggs for Eggland's Best eggs, and you'll get great taste and superior nutritional benefits with 10 times more vitamin E, six times more vitamin D, more than double the omega-3s, more than double vitamin B12 and 25 percent less saturated fat. Short on time in the morning? Try Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls that can be frozen and microwaved in minutes for a satisfying start to your day.

Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls Ingredients: 12 Eggland's Best eggs (large) 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, chopped into 1-inch cubes 1 green pepper, seeded then chopped into 1-inch chunks 1 onion, chopped 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon seasoned salt salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 3 green onions, chopped toppings: tortilla chips, salsa, avocado 6 individual-sized containers with lids Preparation: Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. On a large baking sheet, place potatoes, peppers and onions in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with seasoned salt and ground black pepper. Toss until evenly coated. Roast for about 30-40 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender, stirring and rotating pan halfway through cooking. Meanwhile, crack Eggland's Best eggs into a large bowl, then season with salt and pepper and whisk until smooth. Heat a large skillet over medium heat then spray with nonstick spray and add eggs. Scramble until the eggs are just barely cooked through and still slightly glossy, then scoop onto a plate and set aside. Divide the potatoes and scrambled eggs evenly between the containers then set aside to cool. Once cool, sprinkle with cheese and green onions, then cover and refrigerate. Freeze any portions that aren't eaten within three days. To reheat from frozen: microwave for 1 1/2 minutes then stir and continue microwaving until food is reheated, stirring between intervals. Top with optional toppings, then serve. Tip: Store in individualized microwave-safe containers with lids to make these bowls ready to reheat and go.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/heartandmogulnetwork

ARTICLE CONTRIBUTED BY! BPT

PRACTICAL MEETS PRETTY: FRESH HERBS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS, EVEN IN AUTUMN Multiple factors will influence your choice of herbs, including fall temperatures, where you live, and your taste in seasonings.

The end of summer doesn't have to mean the end of your gardening enjoyment, even if you don't have the time or climate for a full plot of food plants. Herbs are perfect fall crops; they are prolific growers, can satisfy your desire for fresh, garden-grown greens and are one of the easiest ways to elevate your recipes from so-so to so good! Plus, they're ready to harvest and growing your own will make a dent in your grocery bill. The fall gardening experts at Bonnie Plants offer some gardening guidance for planting herbs this fall: Getting started Multiple factors will influence your choice of herbs, including fall temperatures, where you live, and your taste in seasonings. If you decide to plant outdoors, it's important to know when to expect the first hard frost. You can find the estimated first frost date in your area by checking out Bonnie's online frost map. You'll want to choose herbs that like cooler weather, such as parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, mint, chives, lavender and oregano. They're all prolific producers and some, like mint and rosemary, are especially easy to grow. Availability of Bonnie's fall varieties is limited to specific regions, so check your local garden retailers. Pick a place You may envision pots full of leafy, green herbs sitting on a sunny windowsill, while colorful autumn leaves, or even snow, fall outside. However, windowsills aren't always a best bet for indoor herbs, especially if your windows are drafty or the herbs brush the cold glass.

Herbs need at least four to six hours of natural light per day to grow indoors, so choose a sunny spot near a window where they'll be protected from drafts and cold. South- and southwest-facing windows will give you the most natural light throughout the day. Windows facing north won't provide enough sunlight.

Picking the right pots If you really love rosemary, you may be tempted to try to plant the largest pot appropriate for your kitchen, but stick with manageable-sized pots that will fit better indoors, allow you to keep your herbs more organized, and still produce plenty of yield. Be sure to choose pots that have good drainage and always use a premium potting mix. Caring for container herbs Any type of plant growing in a pot needs water, and herbs are no exception. You'll need to keep a close eye on your herb plants' watering needs. Remember, dry topsoil is not an indication plants need water. A quick and easy test is to stick your finger, or a pencil, into the soil right where the stem enters the soil. If the soil is moist at 1.5 to 2 inches deep, do not water. If dry, it's time to water! Always water in the morning, at soil level and avoid watering the leaves, as bacteria can breed in cool, wet, damp and dark conditions, like night time. Fertilize your food plants. Water is an obvious must, but irrigation can wash nutrients out of the soil. Plus, some potting mixes only have a shortterm supply of fertilizer while others are slowrelease. Read the label on your premium potting soil mix and follow the brand's recommendations for fertilizing frequency. Timed-release granular fertilizer or a plant food you mix with water will help keep herbs nourished. Remember food plants are hungry!

Best bets on basil Although basil is the most popular herb, it can sometimes struggle growing indoors. Start off growing it outdoors on a sunny deck. Be sure to continually pinch-off the prolific leaf growth, which encourages more growth and harvest, until the weather turns cool, then bring the pot indoors. Harvested leaves can be continually dried, although freezing does a better job of preserving the herb's flavor. Tip: Try using old ice-cube trays, inserting basil leaves in cells, filling with water and freezing. When weather gets cold, you can easily pop your "basil ice-cubes" in recipes throughout the cold weather season. Basil is also tasty in some drinks, like lemonade and tea. While clipping sprigs when cooking is a great way to harness the freshness of any herb, you can also store them and they'll maintain their flavor. Preserving by drying and freezing aren't your only options; try adding herbs as seasoning to cooking oils.

Whether you're an expert gardener or a first-time fall grower, autumn is the perfect time to fall in love with the freshness, flavor and ease of herb gardening. You've still got time to get growing!

Family & Lifestyle THE CHEA K. WOOLFOLK MAGAZINE

Â How to build healthy habits for the school year and beyond Article contributed by: BPT

Bells are ringing across the country as kids settle into classrooms for a year full of fun, friendship and plenty of learning. While exciting, adjusting to new school schedules is a hectic time. Healthy habits are often forgotten as the focus shifts to studies, assignments and extracurriculars. "Parents and caregivers can make a big difference in helping kids lead a healthy lifestyle during the back-to-school season and beyond," says Deanna SegraveDaly, a mom and registered dietitian. "A few proactive steps can set kids up for success in and out of the classroom." Segrave-Daly offers six easy ideas you can try to help encourage your kids to build healthy habits that last a lifetime: Prioritize sleep Sleep is something families often sacrifice due to busy schedules. Remember, kids need significantly more sleep than adults to support their rapid mental and physical development, according to the National Sleep Foundation. School-age children should strive for nine to 11 hours of sleep each night. Establish a nighttime routine and prioritize sleep every night.

Eat breakfast We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day - especially for our kids. Help them jump-start their day with a quick breakfast of healthy foods like fruit, eggs and whole-grain cereal. For those busy mornings, grab fridge-free, GoGo squeeZ YogurtZ, made with real low-fat yogurt and fruit, for a wholesome option they can easily eat in the car or bus with a banana, toaster waffle or wholewheat toast. Encourage exercise Kids should do at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hopefully some of this physical activity can take place during the school day, but there are lots of easy ways to build healthy activity into daily life at home. Make a habit of going on a family walk after dinner (a great chance to unwind and reconnect) or challenge kids to bring their books up the stairs or to another room one at a time. Take 10-minute "dance party" breaks during homework or see who can jump rope the longest. Manage screen time It's important for families to be mindful of screen time for kids. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends kids ages 2-5 limit screen use to one hour per day of high-quality programs. For children 6 and older, place consistent limits on the time spent using media and monitor the types of media used. Snack well Kids love to snack, and it's important to keep nutritious options on hand for when hunger strikes - it helps them avoid emergency vending machine stops. Stock your pantry with healthier snacks like GoGo squeeZ applesauce pouches. These fridge-free pouches, made from natural ingredients, are easy to grab on the way to soccer practice, music lessons or the playground. They're also an easy lunchbox addition! Adjust the attitude Mental wellness is part of overall wellness. Keep in mind the power of a positive attitude toward education. Encourage kids to look at issues from different angles, appreciate diversity and be resilient. Have conversations with children and truly listen to their concerns to build trust and solve problems. Finally, it's the adult role models in a child's life that really set them up for success. "If you model healthy habits, your child is likely to follow your lead," says Segrave-Daly. "Try to routinely eat well, sleep well, exercise and have conversations about the good and bad parts of your day. Your kids are paying attention even when it seems like they aren't!"

5 Â tips to solve Â separation anxiety Â in your pet By BPT

With good weather and flexible work schedules, summer time is the best season for spending some extra time with your pet. However, once fall comes, the kids aren't the only ones in the family that experience the back-to-school blues. Separation anxiety can happen for many reasons among pets, but with the changing routine and lack of attention due to busy schedules, back-to-school is a common time when pet owners may start noticing changes in their dog or cat's behavior. To support them during this time Dr. Kurt Venator, Purina's Chief Veterinary Officer offers five tips to address separation anxiety in pets.

1. Get your pet into a routine. Pets love routines because it makes them feel secure. During the summer, kids are always around to make things entertaining and exciting. When they suddenly disappear, some cats and dogs will feel sad and confused while others may experience real separation anxiety. It's important to get your pet acclimated to the change by replacing their old schedule with a new one. This new schedule should include allocating time to play after work and keeping a consistent schedule when coming and going from the house. 2. Burn off some energy. Some pets deal with separation anxiety by engaging in negative or destructive behaviors, such as howling, excessive barking or chewing on inappropriate objects. A great way to keep your dog from doing this is to take them on a walk in the morning before you leave the house to help burn off some of that extra energy. For cats, consider playing with them at night as well - whether it's making them chase a feather wand or play with a ball. 3. Create an interactive environment. Back-to-school season is a great time to buy your pet a new, interactive toy to play with. This will help mentally stimulate them and keep them occupied during the day when children are away at school. For dogs, chew toys are a way for them to relieve their anxiety, frustration and boredom. For cats, creating a play area - including scratching posts and cat furniture can keep them entertained even when you're not home. 4. Turn up the tunes and start with baby steps. Try leaving some soothing music on at your home while everyone is out of the house. The music will help drown out distracting noises that your dog may mistakenly associate with their family coming home. Some animal shelters have even found that playing calming music helps animals in their facilities relax. Additionally, help your pets adjust to a new routine by providing them with clear cues. For example, jingling your car keys prior to leaving for work each day can provide your pet with an important audible cue and ultimately, help with the transition to a new family schedule. 5. Spend time with your pet. It's important to remember that while you may have had a long day, your pet may have been sitting at home feeling lonely, waiting for you to come home. Spending some quality time with your pet at the end of the day is critical to helping keep them active and mentally sharp. It may be tough to fit into a busy work schedule, but be sure to build some interactive time - whether it's a walk or cuddle session -to benefit both you and your pet. For more information on helping your pet deal with separation anxiety, check out this article on Purina.com.

For more information on helping your pet deal with separation anxiety, check out this article on Purina.com.

5 WAYS TO EXPLORE THE 'FINAL FRONTIER' ON FLORIDA'S SPACE COAST

By BPT

5 things on Florida's Space Coast to deepen your passion for space

When it comes to outer space, there is much to wonder over and dream about. Where else are there such colossal challenges paired with the infinite possibilities of discovery? For stargazers, dreamers and those who believe anything is possible, Florida has the perfect vacation spot for experiencing that sense of cosmic adventure, and letting your imagination run wild. Just zoom in on a certain strip of Atlantic seaboard known as the Space Coast - your portal to "the final frontier." Here, there is ample opportunity to get an up-close look at space exploration. Of course, The Space Coast is home to the Kennedy Space Center, located in the middle of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge along the Atlantic shore, where NASA has captivated the hearts and minds of Americans with its launches of manned spacecraft and other vessels sent off to explore our solar system. There's so much on the Space Coast for space enthusiasts to take in, including close encounters with space vehicles, the opportunity to watch a rocket launch, and the chance to hear dramatic stories told by America's astronauts. Use this guide to start planning your adventure to the Space Coast. Witness a roaring rocket launch A few weeks before heading for the Space Coast, it's essential to check the latest rocket launch schedule at spacecoastlaunches.com, so you can seize the opportunity to witness an actual, thundering liftoff. The website also offers plenty of suggestions for catching an excellent view of the launch action coming out of the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. (You even might be able to get a preview by tuning in for live launch coverage at spacecoastlaunches.com/watch-live.) Just know this: A roaring rocket launch is an experience that can't be fully appreciated until it is seen - and felt - in person.

Get an astronaut's perspective Without a doubt, those who are named to NASA's Astronaut Corps belong to an elite group. Still, not all who are accepted end up on a space flight. Asking real astronauts about their experiences in the program or talking with those who have flown on a space mission is a can't-miss opportunity for any space fiend. During your visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, be sure to block out some time for one of the daily question-and-answer sessions with a real astronaut. Get an up-close look at the Mars Rover There's been renewed optimism lately about a manned mission to Mars - and with it, much speculation that the person who will first set foot on the Red Planet may already have been born. The crew that makes the voyage to Mars will need a vehicle rugged enough to safely traverse the planet's challenging, rocky landscape. At the same time, the machine must be designed to function as a mobile laboratory. At the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, you'll have the chance to view an astonishing, otherworldly concept vehicle called the Mars Rover. And while you're on-site, the expansive "Summer of Mars" exhibit will show you what it will take to accomplish the next big space mission. Experience Exploration Tower From the observation deck atop Exploration Tower at nearby Port Canaveral, you can take in a panoramic view of the bustling cruise-ship harbor below and the awe-inspiring launch facilities of both the Kennedy Space Center and the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Here, you'll find it easy to appreciate our past space achievements, as well as the possibilities that lie ahead. The seven-story Exploration Tower also happens to be a great spot to view rocket launches; after liftoff, stick around and check out the many exhibits that take you through a sweeping history of Port Canaveral and how it influenced exploration of the Americas and beyond. For more details, visit explorationtower.com. Soak in the history Before and during your Space Coast trip, take time to absorb the rich history of the Kennedy Space Center. After all, this is where America began its journey to the moon and launched the era of the space shuttle. The space center facilities house hundreds of scientific spacecraft designed to help us learn about the galaxies and our universe. Search for Cape Canaveral history on nasa.gov, where you can listen, watch and learn all about the fascinating missions and the extraordinary men and women who made them possible. Time to stop dreaming about your space-themed vacation adventure, and start planning. You'll discover plenty of helpful information on visitspacecoast.com.

ARTICLE CONTRIBUTED BY: BPT

5 WAYS TO RE-ENGAGE HIGH SCHOOL DROPOUTS

For Christine Wilkins, now 16, freshman year of high school was an ordeal. The same students who bullied her in middle school were at her new high school. Just approaching the school entry filled her with angst. One day, instead of going in, she turned around and went home.

"The idea of walking through those gates gave me so much anxiety," she says.

Christine hated school. Unable to focus or dedicate herself to her schoolwork, she made C's, D's and F's.

Eventually, Christine stopped going to school and dropped out.

Tackling the dropout issue

There are many reasons students drop out of high school. Poverty, pregnancy, homelessness, bullying or just losing interest are some of the many issues that cause students to skip a day of class, a week and eventually drop out altogether.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, missing just three weeks of school is enough to threaten a student's chance to graduate.

What can be done to help these students?

As each person is a complex individual, there is no single solution that can reach the multitude of different students.

This is why Learn4Life, a nonprofit dropout recovery program, takes a dynamic approach to reengage students.

The average student who enrolls in Learn4Life has been out of school for 11.4 weeks. Through different methods, such as personalized learning, mentoring and job skills training, the program has been highly successful in reengaging dropouts and keeping them in school.

These are the five effective ways they reach out to these students. 1. Dealing with issues outside of the classroom. Whether it's counseling to help students come to terms with issues they're facing or a mentoring program that builds confidence, helping students deal with non-academic issues is a way to give them the stability they need to succeed. 2. Meeting students where they are. Not every student is at the same emotional, academic or mental level as their peers. Through one-onone attention, personalized learning and academic planning, students can get help where they most need it. This personalized approach is designed to find a solution that's best for the individual. 3. Removing obstacles to learning. Sometimes it's something as simple as not having proper transportation or childcare that prevents a student from returning to complete their education. Giving students flexible schedules, help with transportation and access to teachers or mentors at different hours of the day can make a big difference in their ability to learn. 4. Making them feel safe. It's an unfortunate fact that schools are not always the safe environment they ought to be. Creating a respectful and safe place to learn is essential for removing social anxieties and fears that can hinder learning. 5. Helping them see a future. Through job skills training programs, students can prepare for a future beyond a diploma. As a Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) partner, Learn4Life offers courses in work-readiness skills, career exploration, writing cover letters and resumes, completing applications and interviewing.

The effectiveness of Learn4Life's approach can be seen in the fact that when students enroll, only 15 percent of them come to school regularly, but as the year goes on, that number jumps to 86 percent. Concluding Christine's story After six months out of school, counselors at Christine's old high school pointed her to a Learn4Life program at Desert Sands Charter School. She enrolled and by participating in an internship with Pacific Gateway, part of the YouthBuild WIOA program at Desert Sands, Christine gained experience in customer service and Microsoft applications. Currently, Christine attends school and is getting all A's and B's in her school work, and has a full-time internship. At the end of the internship, she will receive certificates in customer service and Microsoft Office. "I'm dedicated because I'm getting knowledge and experience for a life outside of school," Christine says.

6 SIMPLE STEPS Â TO AVOID DISTRACTED DRIVING BY: BPT

Mobile phones have become an essential part of life for most people, helping them stay connected and increase productivity. However, this technology can also be a distraction when driving, which puts everyone on the road at risk. More than one-quarter of all car crashes involve phone use, both with handsets and hands-free, the National Safety Council reports. Considering many states and countries don't yet compile and report data on cellphone use following a crash, this number is likely much higher. Distracted driving isn't just an issue for young adults. High technology use means this is a problem across generations. For professionals in particular, the expectation to stay productive and reachable means a constant temptation to use cellphones when driving. Recognizing the ethical and liability issues that arise when employees drive while distracted, employers across the country have begun implementing distracted-driving policies. Typically, these policies prohibit employees from using mobile phones while driving on company time. In January 2017, the NSC reported that Cargill was the largest privately held company to prohibit the use of mobile devices, including hands-free technology, while an employee is driving on behalf of the company. Cargill's Chairman and CEO David MacLennan just marked the one-year anniversary of following the policy. "I had to try the policy myself first," says MacLennan. "Once I knew what it would take to go completely cellphone free in my car, I could then make it work for our entire company."

HBased on his experience, MacLennan offers these six simple steps for anyone looking to eliminate distracted driving yet stay productive and responsive to your job. 1. Auto response Use a free automated response app to let callers know that you're driving and can't take the call. You can personalize the response so incoming calls or texts receive a text message saying you're on the road. 2. DND If you're driving a vehicle outfitted with communication technology, use its "do not disturb" feature to unplug from calls and texts while behind the wheel. 3. Block drive times Just as you schedule meetings, use shared calendars to block times you'll be driving. This alerts anyone else connected to your calendar when you'll be out of touch. 4. Out of sight, out of mind A study by AT&T found that 62 percent of drivers keep their phones within reach in the car. Put yours where you can't see or reach it, such as in the back seat. 5. Pull over If you must take a call while on the road, let it go to voicemail and pull over in a safe location to return the call. Plan pull-over "cellphone stops" along your route if needed. 6. Avoid all distractions Cellphones aren't the only cause of distracted driving. Eating, grooming and reading are activities people try to tackle while driving. Be smart and simply stay focused on the road. Driving safely should be everyone's top concern when behind the wheel. These simple steps can make it easier to resist the temptation to pick up the phone or do another activity that can wait until you've arrived, safely, at your destination.

Crunching dollars and planning weddings: How to financially plan for the big day Written by BPT

Attending most weddings, with the exception of your creepy uncle's third marriage, is great. You eat free food, get to dance to music and leave without having to take part in the cleanup or the costs. It gets a little different when you're the one footing the bill. Then you're confronted with 127 different invitation styles, a guest list that keeps growing and awkward phone calls to cousins to tell them they can't bring their bratty 7-year old twins. Falling in love might have been easy and making the decision to spend the rest of your life together was probably a no-brainer. However, celebrating your love and funneling all that joy into one beautiful ceremony and one memorable party is where things get a little more complicated. As a leader in creating credit scoring models and educating consumers on credit, VantageScore Solutions shares how important it is for couples to agree on how to manage their finances. So let's get into it and look at some of the financial topics you and your partner should go over. Paying for your wedding No doubt how to pay for your dream wedding will be one of the first conversations you'll have with your loved one. Some people have months, sometimes even more than a year to plan and save up for the big day. Other times you may need to make a deposit or pay for something upfront and you might not have the cash to do it. This is when you reach for your credit card. Even if you don't plan to use a credit card, it's more than likely you'll have to put some things on credit. This might include just about anything you purchase online, from the cute decorations you find on Etsy or novelty gifts you find on Amazon. In addition, many venues require you to have a credit card on file.

. The point is, it's likely that at some point you'll use credit to pay for your wedding. When you do this, both you and your partner need to be aware of the potential perils of racking up debt. Provided you can responsibly manage the debt and have a plan to do so, your credit score won't decline, which can lead to more purchasing opportunities in the future. But first, you need to talk about credit with your partner. The talk Talking about credit might not exactly be a champagne and strawberries moment, but it is probably one of the most important discussions you can have. Because it might be hard to get started on this topic, many couples find it's easier to start by taking The Credit Score Quiz. This 12-question quiz is easy to take and can do a lot to reveal the knowledge gaps you and your partner may need to fill. While the quiz is a great way to get started, resources like The Score, a monthly newsletter from VantageScore Solutions that covers all things credit, can help you continue on your conversation and guide you on your journey. So while you're debating what shade of off-white is right for your invitations, take the time to talk and use these credit-related resources. After the big day has come and gone, you'll be glad that together, both of you were smart about your finances.

FRUSTRATED WHILE

Contributed by BPT

FLYING? HERE ARE 5 SMART WAYS TO KEEP YOUR COOL

The key to staying calm is dealing with the situation early and politely. Turn around with a smile and ask the child's parent if they could help their child to not bump the seat in front of them. You might even suggest putting a carry-on under their feet to rest their legs on. Finally, stay patient. The parents want a peaceful flight just as much as you do.

Inflight annoyance No. 3: Flight delays

There's no need to get worked up when you get the bad news that your flight will be late due to maintenance issues. Instead of getting frustrated, use the extra time to treat yourself. Grab one of those chair massages in the concourse. You'll feel more relaxed, plus the muscle rub-down will send a message to your brain that Â There was a time decades ago when taking a flight was truly a privilege. People looked forward to comfy seats, cold drinks and friendly service.

Today? Not so much. With the cramped seating and impossibly long security lines, flying is the unpleasant grunt work of travel - something you endure to make it to the better thing. But travel pros know the best ways to soothe their nerves in the face of even the most aggravating situations.

Below are five big annoyances on commercial flights, and smart strategies to help you cool your jets and deal with each. As you can see, new technology is helping to make flight much more enjoyable than you're probably used to.

Inflight annoyance No. 1: Noisy passengers

Whether the toddler in row 15 is throwing a fit, or your neighbor continually wants to strike up a conversation, few things are more annoying on a flight than noisy passengers. This is where a pair of noise-canceling headphones is worth the investment. While dampening the surrounding sounds, these will help you focus on your work, a movie or even sleep. Even better, they send a clear signal to the world that you're not available for idle chit chat.

Inflight annoyance No. 2: Seat kickers

Many parents have been on both sides of the "seat-kicking" issue. Of course no one wants to feel their chair kicked, but it's harder to prevent than a lot of non-parents think. Little kids move fast, and 2-year-olds aren't the best listeners. A recent survey by YouGov shows most respondents (55 percent) said they are annoyed having their seats kicked or hit when flying.

everything is OK.

Besides, you may not get many chances in the future to treat yourself because technology advances are starting to cut back on the length of these maintenance delays. For example, GoDirect Maintenance Services from Honeywell Aerospace wirelessly connects mechanical systems to maintenance crews, so they can quickly address potential mechanical issues. They'll know what the plane needs even before it lands, saving time and keeping operations smooth. By reducing troubleshooting time by up to a whopping 25 percent, that means less downtime for airline flights and fewer delays caused by maintenance.

Inflight annoyance No. 4: Terrible Wi-Fi service

Besides being charged a bundle just for internet access, passengers are often disappointed by what they get: dropped service and the inability to use the Wi-Fi for things they really want, like streaming music and movies.

Preparation is key to staying calm, so before the plane takes off, keep your device stocked with movies, albums and books. But one day soon, that won't be necessary.

High-speed inflight Wi-Fi from Inmarsat's GX Aviation, powered by Honeywell's JetWave system, is already a feature on select international flights. Passengers can tap into home-quality Wi-Fi around the globe to stream their favorite TV show without annoying interruptions or being dropped. Having reliable inflight Wi-Fi is also great for entertaining kids throughout the entire flight. Especially since most people (61 percent) are not willing to offer a traveling parent help who's struggling to entertain or calm down a young child, even if it could mean positive travel karma for them, according to YouGov. No disruptions to a child's favorite TV show could be the ticket to a calmer travel experience for all on board.

Inflight annoyance No. 5: Dry (potentially smelly) cabin air It's much easier to relax when you are comfortable, and the easiest place to start is with your airplane outfit. Wear moisture-wicking active wear to keep things breathable in a warm environment, but be sure to stash a fleece jacket in your carry-on so you can warm up if the temperature drops. But what if you sit next to a passenger with body odor or someone who brought bad-smelling food on the plane? YouGov's recent survey shared that 74 percent of people are annoyed with these unwanted smells when flying. Fortunately, fluctuating cabin temperatures and smells are on their way out. Thanks to Honeywell's Integrated Environmental Control System, advanced technology monitors and controls the cabin environment, so the air conditioning, cabin pressure, cooling and ventilation are always in perfect balance. Here's to a more pleasant travel experience for all. Read more about Honeywell Aerospace on the Follow the Aero blog. Flying? 5 ways to keep your cool and get through it Back in the golden age of flight, boarding a plane meant you were in for an amazing experience - comfortable seats, plenty of cold drinks and smiles everywhere. Today? Not so much. With the cramped seating and impossibly long line to get out the door, flying is seen as the unpleasant grunt work of travel, something you just have to get through. Talk to the travel pros, though, and they'll tell you there are ways to sooth your nerves in the face of even when the worst . It just takes a willingness to take a few deep, cleansing breaths and see the solution. Let's walk through the five most annoying flight experiences with strategies to help you calm down and restore your mood to good. Inflight annoyance No. 1: The passengers Whether a toddler in row Q is having a fit over being belted in, or your seat mate wants to strike up an unwanted conversation, noisy passengers can distract your creating that zen-like flight experience you want to create. Not to mention, it's very annoying. This is where a pair of noise canceling headphones is a flier's best friend. While dampening unwanted sounds, these allow you to focus your ears on podcasts, music or an audio book - while sending a clear signal to the world you're not available for idle chit chat. (To send a stronger message, just lean back in your seat and close your eyes.) Inflight annoyance No. 2: Seat kickers Little kids love to swing their legs. Which would be fine, if you didn't have to feel it drumming on your lower back during an entire flight. The key to staying calm is dealing with the situation directly. Turn around and politely ask the child's parent if they would put a stop the kicking, because it's keeping you from relaxing during your flight. If the pitter patter of little feet doesn't stop, offer your carryon suitcase as a foot rest to accommodate their short legs. The sacrifice may be worth a peaceful flight, and with any luck, the parent will take the hint and grab their own luggage to solve the problem. Inflight annoyance No. 3: Flight delays When you get the bad news that your flight will be late due to maintenance issues, there's little point in getting worked up. You can't do anything, plus the So why not use the extra time to treat yourself? Grab one of those chair massages in the concourse. You'll feel more relaxed, plus the muscle rub-down will send a message to your brain that everything is OK. Besides, you may not have these chances in the future, because technology will cut the length of these maintenance delays. For example, emerging technology from Honeywell Aerospace called GoDirect Connected Maintenance will place important mechanical data right in the hands of maintenance crew, even before the plane lands or before something breaks. By reducing troubleshooting time by a whopping 25 percent, that means briefer downtimes for airline flights. Inflight annoyance No. 4: The terrible wi-fi service Besides being charged a bundle just for internet access, passengers are often disappointed by what they get: dropped service and the inability use the wi-fi for things they really want, like streaming music and movies. Preparation is key to staying calm, so before the plane takes off, keep your device stocked with movies, albums and books. If this is a working flight, download hard copies to your laptop, so a dropped signal doesn't disrupt your progress. One day, this hassle will go the way of the horrible inflight music and movie. High speed inflight wi-fi powered by Honeywell's JetWave hardware is already a feature in select international flights. For you, that will mean you can tap in to home quality Wi-Fi, and stream your favorite TV show without worrying about being dropped! Inflight annoyance No. 5: That dry, ever-changing cabin air It's much easier to relax when you are comfortable, and the easiest place to start is with your airplane outfit. Wear moisture wicking active wear to keep things breathable in a warm environment, and be sure to stash a fleece jacket in your carryon so you can get cozy if the temperature drops. In the meantime, fluctuating cabin temperatures are on their way out, thanks to Honeywell's Integrated Environmental Control System, will use advanced technology to monitor and control the cabin environment, so the air conditioning, cabin pressure, cooling and ventilation are always in perfect balance.

GET CREATIVE IN PARADISE WITH THE ARTISANS OF EL SALVADOR By BPT

While many would welcome an escape to paradise to delay the onset of winter, there are those of us who crave a getaway that takes things a step beyond the usual basking, rest and relaxation. In fact, according to a 2016 survey by market research company Gfk, 35 percent of respondents said they prefer vacations that are active and offer opportunities to try new things. While an "active" vacation may conjure ideas like zip lining through the tree tops or riding the waves on a surfboard, don't overlook the fact that an active vacation in a tropical land can also mean discovering unique ways to interact with and learn about a new culture. For example, in El Salvador, there is ample opportunity to watch and speak to artisans at work in mediums from indigo powder to red clay. If you're feeling inspired, you can even make your own version of these crafts at one of many workshops open to visitors. Plan a road trip along El Salvador's artisan trail, and you can return home with a suitcase of souvenirs like handdyed scarves, colorful woven mats and clay figurines - all that you made yourself. Here are four picturesque El Salvador towns and their fascinating specialties where you can enjoy a hands-on immersion in an artisan paradise. The murals of La Palma A walk through the streets of La Palma is a journey in living color because just about every wall and entryway is covered in vibrant murals depicting the people, animals, flowers and things in and around the town. These works are painted in a simple folk-style called Arte Naif that features plenty of Mayan influences, making it easy for even a beginning artist to create a pocket-sized La Palmastyle mural. Taller Paty (artesaniaspaty.com) offers workshops to visitors that take them through the steps of rendering a colorful design on a wooden box or inside the "frame" of a copinol seed.

The indigo art of Suchitoto As you wander along cobblestone streets in the village of Suchitoto, you'll be charmed and inspired by the colonial Spanish architecture as well as the art for sale in its many galleries. Along the way, make plans to stop at the Arte AĂąil Gallery, which features a workshop where you can learn to dye fabric with indigo. Indigo is a blue powder extracted from a blue flowering plant with a long and fascinating history. The Mayans were just one ancient civilization that cultivated and prized its deep blue color, incorporating this striking hue into their murals and pottery. After this workshop, you'll have your own indigo accessory, either a handdyed scarf or a bag, as a memento of your trip. The red clay of Ilobasco Ceramics runs deep in the identity of this town, a history that is owed to both the skill of the artists and the abundance of red mud the artists harvest and prepare into clay. Watch as they shape this lump of earth into intricate miniatures, ranging from tiny human forms to little egg-shaped figures called sorpresas that open and reveal a daily activity of the town. Engage with one of these artists, and you may be treated to fascinating tales of their artistic lineage - of those who had passed down the knowledge and skill through the generations, sometimes dating back to the 1700s. Then, you can take part in one of the many workshops and shape your own Ilobasco miniature in the red mud. The woven textiles of San Sebastian The town of San Sebastian is famous for its colorfully banded textiles made with a traditional loom called the Telares. Here, you'll find ample opportunity to observe a master weaver at work at Casa de la Cultural de San Sebastian. As they work the looms with hands and feet, it's mesmerizing to watch the motions of man and machine create beautiful blankets, hammocks and mats. Here, you can try your hand (and your feet) at a Telares in a unique and intimate setting - in the home workshop of a master weaver. Wherever you begin your artisan journey, El Salvador has much to offer for anyone who loves to create. To help you start planning your hands-on excursion, visit elsalvador.travel/en/tipos/artisan-route.

Â Elements of indigo in Suchitoto, El Salvador

HOUSEWORK MAY BE A KEY TO IMPROVING YOUR RELATIONSHIP By: BPT

Cleaning the bathroom and emptying the dishwasher isn't at the top of a couple's "To Do Together" list, but it may be the true language of love. In fact, a recent survey from home appliance leader LG Electronics found most Americans (52%) get turned on by their partner doing housework. In fact, those who do chores with their partner (60%) are nearly twice as likely as those who don't (37%) to believe a person who is good at chores is good in bed. So what's the key to a better relationship? Communication and housework. That couldn't be truer for celebrity couple Rachel Zoe, renowned designer and editor-in-chief of The Zoe Report, and her husband Rodger Berman, president of Rachel Zoe Inc., who have been together for 26 years. Rachel and Rodger are proof that communication and managing housework together could lead to a happier relationship. "Rodger and I have young boys, so there is always something to clean or pick up around the house," shared Zoe. "We work as a team to tackle the different housework, so we can spend more time together." Over their decades-long relationship, Zoe and Berman have some advice for how to handle disagreements over housework: 1. Divide and conquer Splitting up household responsibilities makes it quicker and easier to get housework done. While one person prepares dinner, the other can set the table and then clear it afterwards. This helps couples feel like they're both doing their part and no one is putting in more effort than the other. "We love to entertain and there is always a lot of preparation before guests arrive," Zoe said. "Rodger and I divide up the responsibilities, which makes it so much easier and faster. For example, I'll cook and he'll load the dishes so everything is clean and ready when people arrive." 2. Find the right tools to make tasks easier "When we have friends and family over, we want to spend time with them and not worry about running around doing a million things and cleaning up," notes Zoe. "We make sure we have the right tools to help us - our newest trick of the trade is the LG QuadWash dishwasher. It looks amazingly chic in our home but it also makes our lives easier. Because it has four powerful spraying arms, instead of the traditional two, we don't have to worry about prewashing or rewashing the dishes." Technology can help couples tackle cleaning and maintain their home together. Set reminders for whose turn it is to clean out the refrigerator or use the LG SmartThinQÂŽ app to monitor and check when the dishwasher is done. Using technology can help couples spend more time together and less time cleaning. 3. Specialize according to priorities and strengths Specializing is one way to ensure everyone's priorities are met and housework gets done. Some people would rather clean the bathroom than load a dishwasher, while others don't mind a layer of dust on furniture but can't abide a sink full of dirty dishes overnight. The party who hates bathroom cleaning can be responsible for all dishwasher duties, including making sure the sink is dish-free at the end of the day. Meanwhile, the other party can tackle bathroom duties. Zoe and Berman prioritize housework based on the other's preferences. "I love cooking and it's important to me to always serve good meals, so I handle all the cooking," she says. "Rodger actually likes doing the dishes, and he knows I can't sleep if there are dirty dishes in the sink, so he always makes sure the dishes are loaded in the dishwasher before we go to bed." 4. Never use housework as a tool for revenge One in four people surveyed by LG said they have purposely messed up a partner's laundry after a fight. Zoe admits when she's angry with Berman she may not take the throw pillows off his side of the bed, or make his nightly frozen yogurt. However, she also verbalizes to him what she's upset about. "Sharing responsibilities has always been an effortless part of our relationship," Zoe says. "That's the way we have always approached our lives. We have always thought of ourselves as a team."

MY EXPERIENCE WITH DOG FLU: Â A DOG'S POINT OF VIEW BPT

Recently, I got really sick. I had just spent a funfilled week with all my friends at doggie daycare while my family was on vacation. Shortly after they brought me home, I started coughing a lot. It was really hard to breathe and I started vomiting. I didn't feel like eating anything and I was tired all of the time. I was miserable. One of my family members missed a couple days of work to try to nurse me back to health. One time we spent the whole night in the bathroom hoping the steam from the hot shower would help my nasty cough. I know it was hard for her as she has a busy job, but she was as scared as I was. When it was clear I wasn't getting any better, my family decided to take me to my veterinarian, who ran some tests and found that I had contracted H3N2, a new strain of canine influenza (CIV), also known as dog flu. What We Learned About Dog Flu My family didn't know anything about H3N2, but my vet said she was happy that they brought me in to see her. My vet knew a lot about dog flu and was able to answer all of our questions. We were surprised to learn that even though a lot of people don't know about it, H3N2 has been spreading rapidly across the United States since the first case was reported in 2015. My vet also shared that:

* Social dogs like me, who go to doggie daycare, dog parks, groomers, or really anywhere that dogs, cats and humans come into contact with one another, are at the highest risk for exposure to and contracting dog flu * Because most dogs have no natural immunity to this highly contagious disease, nearly every dog who comes across it will become infected * H3N8, a relatively less intense strain of dog flu, has been in the United States for more than 13 years, but it can also spread very quickly, like the H3N2 strain * In most dogs, dog flu manifests as some coughing, a runny nose and a slight decrease in appetite and energy * H3N2 can also cause respiratory problems and vomiting, and serious cases of either strain can lead to pneumonia and even death in severe cases * The common kennel cough vaccine doesn't protect against dog flu

Contributed By: BPT

Dogs Are Social Animals - That Puts Us At Risk One of my favorite things in the whole world is running around and playing with my friends at doggie daycare and at the dog park, as well as when I go get my bath, haircut and nails trimmed. My vet told us that this was probably how I got sick. Because we can have trouble letting our families know when we're not feeling well, people may accidentally take contagious dogs out and about, inadvertently causing CIV to spread between dogs that come into contact. Even drinking out of the same water bowl or chewing on community dog toys can expose us to the disease. However, my vet told my family that because of how contagious the dog flu is and because it can be contagious for up to three weeks, it was important that I stay home from the dog park, groomer or doggie daycare for a while. She compared it to how my little family members stay home from school when they're sick, in order to keep their classmates healthy. I'm so glad my family listened to my vet-I certainly didn't want to get any of my friends sick! Prevention Is the Best Approach When my vet gave us my diagnosis, she also said that there is no specific treatment or medicine for dog flu, so the best protection is vaccination. Most veterinarians recommend the dog flu vaccine. There is even a combination vaccine that helps to protect against both strains of dog flu, H3N2 and H3N8, which means one less shot for me! If This Dog Could Talk: Tour to Prevent Dog Flu Before we left my vet, she told us about the If This Dog Could Talk: Tour to Prevent Dog Flu and we downloaded a copy of the new tour album, created in collaboration with Merck Animal Health and The Dogist photographer Elias Weiss Friedman. The album contains hundreds of beautiful pictures of dogs and shares important information with pet parents about the dog flu. My family and I had so much fun looking at all of the photos and sharing them with our friends-many of whom also had never heard of dog flu before. We all learned about dog flu the hard way, but hopefully you won't have to! Visit dogflu.com to download the free tour album for you and the dog you love to see some amazing doggie photos and learn how to keep your pup safe, happy and healthy!

TRAVELING SOON? TIPS TO STAY SHARP AND AVOID FRAUD ByÂ BPT

IF YOUR SUITCASE IS FULL, DON'T WORRY - PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM FRAUD DOESN'T MEAN MORE PACKING.

But it does mean you should prepare for the challenge of keeping your personal info safe. According to an Experian(R) survey, 20 percent of respondents had sensitive information like credit or debit cards, personal identification or smartphones stolen while on vacation. "As you travel, your exposure to risk can expand," says Chip Kohlweiler, vice president of security at Navy Federal Credit Union. "Before you head out, ensure your financial institution is up to date with your contact information. This will minimize disruptions in service, and you can leverage travel notifications and card freeze/unfreeze features," he adds.

Fraudsters are waiting for you to slip into cruise control, so being alert can save you stress - and money. But when do you need to be on your toes and when can you kick back and relax? Let's walk through a few travel checkpoints so you know where threats are lurking. Travel planning Window shopping for your perfect trip can ignite wanderlust. But keep your wits as you browse through destinations and travel offers online. You'll want to be extra careful, especially if you plan to make a payment or provide personal information for bookings. You're probably using a phone, computer, tablet or combination of these to do your planning. Regardless of what device you're on, you can use your travel savvy to avoid becoming a victim of fraud. Watch out for: * Offers for "free" trips, or travel prices that are too good to be true * Fake travel websites * Hidden costs in package deals - read the fine print! * Requests for personal information As with any online purchase, check the URL of the site you're on. If you're looking at a web page but the URL doesn't match the site you had in mind, you could be looking at a fake site being run by a fraudster. If your site checks out, read the fine print and know exactly what you're signing up for before you enter any payment or personal info. Don't hesitate to call and confirm any of the information you see. If the company or individual doesn't offer a phone number, it's probably not legit. When it comes to calling, you should be doing the dialing. It's illegal for companies to call you with an automated message if you haven't given them written permission to do so. The voice recording that offers you a prize in exchange for your credit card could be trying to scam you. While you're traveling You dodged the traps and booked your travel with ease. But the fraudsters haven't called it quits, and neither should you. There are a few hot spots where you should stay alert, including: * Airports * Hotel lobbies * Public hangouts (like coffee shops or popular tourist hubs) Pickpocketing - one of the oldest scams in the book - is popular in these busy atmospheres. Avoid distractions that take your focus away from your belongings. Remember, your personal space is exactly that - personal! Protecting your digital information is just as important as your physical space. High-traffic areas may offer public Wi-Fi. These networks are an easy access point for cybercriminals. Some fraudsters even create their own hot spots and name them based on the location. "The last thing you should do is access your bank account or any sensitive account on a public network," says Kohlweiler. Data on your phone becomes available to a criminal when you connect to these public networks. Your best course of action is to keep your phone or tablet stowed away until you can jump on a password-protected network, like in your hotel room. Partner with a sidekick The good news is you're not in this alone. There are services and resources out there to make fraud protection easier. For instance, as a Navy Federal member, you can call or go online to set up a travel notification. You can also request account info via text. Tools like these can put you one step ahead of the criminals. If you are a victim of fraud, we have a team dedicated to resolving these issues, too. When you return home, be sure to get in touch with a representative to check in. It never hurts to have two sets of eyes reviewing your account after a big trip. If you're planning to travel, do your research and remember to pack your fraud protections. And make security tools, like the ones available through Navy Federal, your travel buddy.

FIGHTING THE MORNING CLOCK? 9 NO-FAIL WAYS TO GET OUT THE DOOR ON TIME CONTRIBUTED BY BPT

As the sun shines through the curtains, you hit the snooze button again. Suddenly you bolt up, realizing you're running late. You skip breakfast, grab your bag and rush out the door. Stress levels skyrocket and your day has barely begun. The race against the clock at the start of the day is a common problem. Mornings shouldn't be difficult and certainly not something you dread. To get out the door on time and with a grin on your face, consider these nine no-fail tips. Bedtimes aren't just for kids: A great morning starts the night before. A regular bedtime is as important for adults as it is for children. Go to bed with the goal of getting seven to nine hours of sleep, as is recommended for adults by the National Sleep Foundation. Use the night prior to your advantage: Mornings flow smoothly when you do a lot of prep work the evening before. That means select outfits, pack bags and backpacks, and organize any paperwork before you hit the hay. Stock the fridge for health and convenience: It's always smart to have delicious and nutritious ingredients in your fridge like fresh fruits, veggies and eggs. Eggs are especially versatile and packed with nutrition. Look for eggs with added nutritional benefits like Eggland's Best eggs. In a hurry? Try Eggland's Best Hard-Cooked Peeled Eggs for a ready-to-eat lunch or snack. Meal prep on Sunday: Another fridge-friendly tip is to do Sunday prep for the week. For example, chop up veggie spears or fruits and place in individual containers for easy grab-and-go snack options to pair with your hard-cooked eggs. Learn to love the alarm: Rather than just setting one alarm for waking up, try setting several to keep your morning routine on track. For example, set one for when it's time for breakfast and another as a five-minute warning for departure. Eliminate distractions: The fewer distractions you have, the better your chances of meeting the morning clock. That means resist the urge to check your smartphone or have a rule that the TV remains off until all morning tasks are complete. Check it and forget it: It can be highly effective to make a specific list with morning to-do's for you and your family members. As each task is complete, you get the satisfaction of marking it off your list, plus it keeps the morning moving quickly. Adjust your attitude: A positive attitude doesn't only start your day out on the right foot, it can also help you stay focused so when you're racing against the clock, you win every time (and with a smile on your face).

Don't forgo breakfast: The most important meal of the day doesn't have to take a lot of time. Make-ahead breakfasts and easy recipes are your key to a delicious morning without running late. These delicious Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls will fuel your family throughout the day with superior nutrition. By choosing Eggland's Best eggs, you get six times more vitamin D, 25 percent less saturated fat, more than double the omega-3s and vitamin B12, and 10 times more vitamin E than ordinary eggs. Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls INGREDIENTS 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, chopped into 1-inch cubes 1 green pepper, seeded then chopped into 1-inch chunks 1 onion, chopped 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon seasoned salt salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste 12 Eggland's Best Eggs (large) 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 3 green onions, chopped toppings: tortilla chips, salsa, avocado 6 individual-sized containers with lids PREPARATION 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. 2. On a large baking sheet, place potatoes, peppers and onions in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with seasoned salt and ground black pepper. Toss until evenly coated. 3. Roast for about 30-40 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender, stirring and rotating pan halfway through cooking. 4. Meanwhile, crack Eggland's Best eggs into a large bowl, then season with salt and pepper and whisk until smooth. 5. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then spray with nonstick spray and add eggs. 6. Scramble until the eggs are just barely cooked through and still slightly glossy, then scoop onto a plate and set aside. 7. Divide the potatoes and scrambled eggs evenly between the containers, then set aside to cool. 8. Once cool, sprinkle with cheese and green onions, then cover and refrigerate. Freeze any portions that aren't eaten within three days. 9. To reheat from frozen: microwave for 1 1/2 minutes, then stir and continue microwaving until food is reheated, stirring between intervals. Top with optional toppings, then serve.

By BPT

Improve your dog's emotional life

For millions of pet parents, their beloved dog is more than just a four-legged friend - he's a member of the family. When looking at products for their pet they are willing to explore all options to ensure they provide the very best items like organic foods, therapeutic bedding, unique and innovative toys, on-trend collars and leashes, electronic feeding and watering items and more. Although our pets are treated as family members there is one issue that is often overlooked and undertreated in dogs - anxiety. After all, we can't ask our animals how they're doing. Nonetheless, 75 million dogs in the U.S. experience anxiety, stress or fear at some point in their lives, and about 24 million of them regularly suffer from these potentially debilitating issues. In some instances it's genetics. But for many dogs, anxiety often arises as a result of a change in routine such as a thunderstorm, fireworks, encounters with strangers, travel and other loud noises. Any of these can trigger an anxiety event. Dogs show signs of anxiety or fear in many different ways. Sudden barking, hiding, inappropriate urination, digging, chewing, panting and excessive lip licking are the most common signs of emotional stress. While it may be challenging to identify the triggers, it's important to understand the science of anxiety in order to best alleviate it.

Physical effects Stress does more than just make for an unpleasant few hours; it can have longlasting physiological effects that can be extremely detrimental. During periods of anxiety, stress or fear, a dog's brain releases an increased amount of adrenaline and cortisol, which decreases the amount of blood flow to the frontal cortex of the brain. This means less oxygen is flowing to the frontal cortex. With prolonged anxiety or fear, the increase in cortisol levels can weaken the dog's immune system, leading to increased incidence of sickness or stress. To avoid long-term health problems, it is important to be aware of the common signs and symptoms and to treat anxiety when it occurs in companion animals. Solutions Some drugs, like sedatives, mood modifiers and anxiety medications have been recommended in extreme cases, but the results have been mixed. Wishing to avoid pharmaceuticals, some owners opt for more natural solutions containing chamomile, passion flower, valerian root, poppy or hops. One of the most effective treatments doesn't involve drugs at all, but rather, focuses on behavior modification to soothe dogs and calm their senses. At the forefront of this innovative approach is the new Calmz(R) Anxiety Relief System for dogs that combines high-tech innovation with acupressure in a revolutionary non-invasive, drug-free treatment that soothes anxiety. The innovative system comes complete with an adjustable Comfort Fit Vest that cradles a device over specific acupressure points on the dog's spine. When the device is activated, the clinically proven NeuroSync Technology(R) takes over. The dog will hear and feel a therapeutic blend of classical music, tones and vibration. This cuts to the physiological root of the stress, reducing adrenaline and increasing blood flow to key areas of the brain. Because anxiety, stress and fear are so common in dogs and can cause so much harm, it's important to visit a veterinarian or a pet behaviorist to rule out any underlying medical conditions and to utilize the experts to help create a plan to treat the issue at hand. Anxiety is a serious disorder and it is best to get it under control early on. Treatment will improve quality of life for not only the dog but for the pet parent as well.

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N E O H T C T DES I K 5 A R R U G UP KE YO ST MA ER HO H N S N I I R U O L F By BPT

Renovating for entertainment

Here are five upgrades that can help make your kitchen the perfect platform for entertaining:

1. Give yourself some space. If you've decided to go all in for your kitchen renovation, and have an older home with a closed-off kitchen, consider opening the space to the home's main living area. If your home already has an open floor plan, consider ways to tie the kitchen more intimately to the living area, such as continuing one style of flooring through both rooms, or repeating an accent color in the kitchen and adjacent common space.

2. Work smarter with a new faucet. The sink is a key point in the workflow triangle for any kitchen, and the faucet should take center stage in this performance. A contemporary faucet with task-driven spray patterns is a must for entertaining, but wouldn't an extra pair of hands also be great to have with the flurry of pre-party activities? An easy and quick solution is a hands-free faucet, such as the American Standard Beale kitchen faucet with Selectronic technology, which allows you to turn water on or off without the need to touch the faucet. This touchless technology makes food prep easier, while also helping to prevent cross-contamination of foods.

Taking hands-free technology one step further, the addition of a sleek, European-styled GROHE kitchen faucet with Foot Control allows you to control the flow of water with a tap of your toe at the base of the sink cabinet. Now it will be super simple to fill a big pot or rinse off a large skillet, using both hands to hold it securely while turning on the water at the same time.3. Upgrade appliances. Depending on your budget, you can find appliances to help with virtually every aspect of entertaining, from dishwashers that entirely eliminate the need to pre-rinse, to refrigerators that help compile your grocery list. Even on a modest budget, you can improve on your current appliances, especially if they are older and less energy efficient. Double stoves are great for cooking a lot of food for large

You love entertaining and treating guests to delectable dishes and fun times. Unfortunately, your kitchen layout, appliances

groups of guests, warming drawers keep food warm until ready to serve, and beverage drawers ensure you'll always have enough refreshments for everyone.

and even the faucet are so downright unappealing that the thought of planning and preparing a party menu is equally unpleasant.

4. Choose cleaning-friendly surfaces. Did you ever wonder why stainless steel sinks continue to be a popular choice in kitchens, regardless of the room's decor? It's because stainless steel sinks not only look good, they

What do you do when you're built to entertain, but your

also retain their beauty longer by resisting stains and scratches. Plus, drop-

kitchen is not? Renovate!

in and undermount stainless steel sinks from American Standard offer both single and double bowl options for simplifying kitchen tasks. Picking dirt

Reason to renovate

and germ-busting surfaces like stainless steel, stone countertops, ceramic tile, etc., can help make it easier to keep your kitchen clean, leaving you

The kitchen is a favorite room to remodel, and a minor kitchen

more time for entertaining.

refresh can return more than 80 percent of your investment at the time of resale, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report. But ROI isn't the top reason people renovate kitchens. According to the 2017 Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, most people who remodel their kitchen do so because they just can't stand it anymore.

So, if you love playing host but don't like the kitchen that

5. Create an island paradise. The standalone island has become a musthave for entertainment-minded homeowners. An island can serve multiple purposes when throwing a party, from providing extra workspace or hosting a second sink, to giving guests a seat closer to the action. You can even choose a multi-level island that will allow you to interact with guests while concealing work areas and sinks from view.

If your kitchen has been holding you back from blossoming into the host of

stands in the way of your entertaining, revamping the room is

your dreams, these easy upgrades can help the room better match your

the perfect way to make it more party-friendly.

personality and entertainment needs.

BIG, SMART IDEAS FOR RENOVATING SMALLER HOMES ByÂ BPT

While newly constructed homes are bigger than ever, most Americans still live in modestly sized or even small houses - and many of these owners are choosing to remodel rather than move into a bigger home. More than half of all American houses were built before 1980, according to the National Association of Home Builders. At that time, the average new home size was slightly more than 1,700 square feet, U.S. Census Bureau data shows. Meanwhile, interest in remodeling is at an alltime high, according to Metrostudy. Homeowners looking to renovate their average-sized homes in order to get more living space don't have to build costly additions. Many modern remodeling tactics, tricks and tools are made to work well in smaller homes. Here are ways to get the most out of your home renovation: Space-saving plumbing options Plumbing can be problematic in any renovation, but adding plumbing in certain smaller-house locations can be especially challenging. Traditional plumbing may require you to open walls and floors to connect to existing drainage lines, or break through concrete to add toilets, showers and sinks when finishing a basement. Above-floor plumbing can solve a number of small-space challenges. For example, you may decide to add a powder room in the unused space beneath a stairway. However, if the space is very small, a standard toilet with water tank and traditionally plumbed sink might not fit. In such a situation, a compact, one-piece macerating toilet like the Sanicompact from Saniflo installs quickly, easily and conveniently in tight spots. Traditional plumbing can also be a challenge in renovations where you're adding plumbing below a main level, such as installing a bathroom with a shower or even a second kitchen in a basement setting. In southern states, where most homes are built on slabs rather than with basements, adding any kind of traditional plumbing would require you to break open the concrete in order to add pipes - an expensive and risky undertaking. However, a Sanistar one-piece, wall-mounted toilet with built-in macerator allows you to add a basement bathroom without cutting concrete. For adding sinks or showers, gray water pumps such as the Saniswift can be as compact as a small wastebasket, and can carry water away from new bathrooms or kitchens where no traditional plumbing exists.

. Right-sizing utilities If you're adding a bathroom or kitchen in your average-sized, average-age home, it may also be a good idea to replace the water heater - especially if it's 10 or more years old. An older water heater may fail or worse, leak, causing damage to nearby floors and walls. Modern tank water heaters are more energy efficient, but also larger as a result of the insulation needed to achieve greater efficiency. If you're replacing a water heater in an attic that's accessed through pull-down stairs or in a crawl space, or adding one in a closet or outof-the-way corner, a traditional tank water heater might not fit. Tankless water heaters require less room, solving space problems. Plus, they're more energy efficient because they heat the water only when you need it, rather than using fuel to maintain the temperature in a large tank. Natural light without sacrifice If your home is older, it may have fewer or smaller windows than newly constructed homes. However, if you crave more natural light, you don't have to sacrifice wall space to windows or incur the expense of opening a wall. Skylights and tube skylights can bring more natural light into a home. Modern skylights are energy efficient and far less prone to leaks than older models. A standard skylight can easily be installed in rooms with direct roof access, and tube skylights can even bring natural light to ground-floor spaces. Plus, skylights allow you to preserve privacy in settings where it matters most, such as bathrooms. Looking up Older homes may have less floor space, but many older homes also have higher ceilings. Or, your smaller home may have a two-story family room or entryway. Using the extra height in your home to create storage space can allow you to free up floor space. For example, floor-toceiling shelves in a family room or entryway provide ample storage space. Tall ceilings can also be an opportunity to add task lighting in work areas such as over kitchen islands, or to create design statements through the addition of exposed faux beams. Smart renovations can help make your home feel bigger and function better for your family, no matter how big or small its square footage.

HOW TO TACKLE A DUST-FREE RENOVATIONÂ By: BPT

Kristen Johnson* loved her home, her family and their active lifestyle. She'd never want to change a thing - except for her foyer and adjoining dining room. When she and her husband first moved into their home, they had intended to refinish the hardwood floors in those areas in a darker stain to better fit their style, but life got in the way. Twelve years, two boys and countless birthday parties, pets and indoor soccer games later, their floors were covered in scuffs, scratches and stains, and some of their walls needed repair. To complicate matters even further, they had a wraparound staircase with a wood-tone banister that would also need to be refinished if they decided to change their floor. With their big family reunion and a house full of people just weeks away, Johnson and her husband knew it was time to make a change. However, they couldn't afford to disrupt their busy schedules, and they didn't want to deal with the hassle of renovation dust getting all over their ceiling fans, cupboards or worse - especially with their son's dust allergies. They knew if they decided to take on this renovation project, they'd need it finished quickly, and they'd need the entire project to be as dust-free as possible. What's the big deal about renovation dust? Beyond creating a huge mess, renovation dust is also a health concern. As any homeowner who has embarked on an interior renovation project knows, the resultant dust gets everywhere - even inside closed cabinets and in adjacent rooms. However, as problematic as the mess is, dust-related health hazards are of even greater concern, particularly to allergy sufferers. Traditional methods of mitigating dust usually involve extensive prep work, like hanging plastic sheeting and taping off doors, or doing a thorough post-renovation top-to-bottom cleaning. Both options are extremely time-consuming.

Kristen and her husband repaired the drywall damage themselves using a Dust Deputy to make the process virtually dust-free. For the more complicated flooring, they hired a professional dust-free flooring contractor to refinish their hardwood floors and banister in a darker stain. Their familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s active lifestyle had taken its toll on Kristenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hardwood floors, stairs and banister, and there was some drywall damage, too.

Is there a better way to handle renovation dust? There is a better way to handle renovation dust: by collecting it right at the source like the pros do. Professional contractors are used to dealing with renovation dust, and given the volume of work they do, they create dust far more frequently and in much greater volumes than the average homeowner or DIYer. Rather than spend valuable time on prep work or post-project cleanup or suffer through the use of uncomfortable dust masks, they use dust collection tools that capture and contain dust immediately as it's created, before it can become a mess or airborne health hazard.

How Johnson tackled her dust-free renovation. Because of their tight timeline, Johnson and her husband decided to take on some of their renovation themselves using supplies purchased at their local hardware store, but they let the professionals handle the tricky floor/banister redo.

To repair their drywall, they patched the damaged areas using joint compound and a drywall sander, which together cost about $130. To make the sanding process dust-free, they added a Dust Deputy, which they connected directly to the drywall sander and to their wet/dry vacuum. They found that this combination captured virtually all the dust generated by the sanding. They noticed no dust in the air, and the Dust Deputy prevented the fine drywall dust from clogging their vacuum filter.

Even though they had the flooring contractor tackle the floor and banister, they saved a few dollars by removing the varnish from the banister and other hard-to-reach areas themselves. To do this, they applied a gel varnish remover using a brush (together about $20), then scraped the wet varnish residue using a Viper Scraper attached to their Dust Deputy and wet/dry vacuum. The scraper captured the residue, and the Dust Deputy contained it for disposal, without it ever reaching, or damaging, their vacuum.

Their big splurge was on the floor refinishing, which they left to the pros to tackle (about $2,500). To keep that process dust-free, they selected a dust-free contractor in their area who used a cyclonic Oneida Vortex dust collection system with HEPA filtration. In the end, they finished the project virtually dust-free and just in time for their family reunion, and they were very pleased with the results!

*Kristen's last name has been changed for privacy.

Today's youth face many challenges struggles with confidence, fear of failure, and bullying. As parents, teachers and leaders, we can do something about it! You and your youth are invited to participate in a world-changing youth movement that will empower youth to be the change they wish to see in the world! During Global Youth Initiative week, youth leadership events will be hosted all over the world. Our goal is to reach 500,000 youth. As a certified member of the John Maxwell Team, I am hosting a local Global Youth Initiative event right here in Louisville, KY. This event is free and open to all children and youth groups, ages 8-18.

For More Information, Contact

INTEREST FORM BY S 8TH SEPTEMBER Lettie Johnson, CEO/FOUNDER GIFTED BY DESIGN LEADERSHIP & CONSULTING

Phone: 502.472.9308

VISIT: WWW.GIFTEDBYDESIGN.NET EMAIL: INFO@GIFTEDBYDESIGN.NET

TEENTASTIC: 5 TIPS TO MAKE ANY SPACE PERFECT FOR YOUNG ADULTS TEENAGERS ARE AT A POINT IN THEIR LIFE WHERE THEY ARE LOOKING TO MAKE THEIR OWN MARK AND FIND THEIR OWN SPACE. YOU WANT TO GIVE IT TO THEM, BUT AS YOU START CONSIDERING RENOVATION IDEAS, HOW DO YOU CREATE A SPACE YOUR TEEN WILL APPRECIATE? THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA KNOWS ALL ABOUT SATISFYING THE NEEDS OF TEENAGERS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE, AND SINCE 2009, THEY HAVE PARTNERED WITH LOWE'S TO RENOVATE CLUBS TO ENSURE THEY ARE SAFE AND INSPIRING PLACES FOR YOUTH. IN 2016, THE TWO ORGANIZATIONS EXPANDED THEIR PARTNERSHIP WITH RENOVATION ACROSS THE NATION, A $2.5 MILLION INITIATIVE TO RENOVATE ONE CLUB IN EACH OF THE 50 STATES. THIS YEAR THE PROGRAM WILL PROVIDE $50,000 EACH TO 50 ADDITIONAL CLUBS - ONE IN EACH STATE. MANY CLUBS THAT RECEIVE THIS MONEY USE IT TO UPDATE THEIR FACILITIES FOR TODAY'S TEENS SO THEY HAVE A DESIRABLE PLACE TO SPEND TIME AFTER SCHOOL. AS THEY PLAN FOR THE RENOVATIONS, THEY GET INPUT FROM TEEN MEMBERS AND HAVE LEARNED SOME HELPFUL INSIGHTS ABOUT WHAT TEENS LOOK FOR IN THEIR OWN SPACE. YOU CAN USE THESE TIPS AS WELL IN YOUR OWN HOME RENOVATION PROJECT TO CREATE A SPACE YOUR TEEN WILL LOVE. By: BPT

* Make it a colorful, distinct area. Teens desire their own space where they can retreat and feel inspired. Paint the room with bright, vibrant colors that add a youthful vibe and select accessories with pops of color you can swap out as their tastes or trends change.

* Incorporate creativity. Giving teens access to items like art supplies, camera equipment and musical instruments encourages them to tap into their passions. Pay attention to what they're interested in and make sure it has a place in their new space.

* Technology is key. Teens are used to having technology at their fingertips. Flat screens, charging stations and computers are tools that help them explore the future and are key to inspiring innovation. Find ways to infuse new technology, such as mood lighting, into the space to make it feel extra comfortable and cool for your teen.

* Create an environment for studying. Teens need a space that helps them focus on studying. Warm lighting and comfy chairs or bean bags help create a quiet, welcoming space for them to relax and learn. Create a homework station and your teen will have everything they need to stay organized and focused on their studies.

* Design a space they'll want to share with friends. As you're designing your space for your teen, be mindful of them inviting other teens over as well. If the space can easily handle multiple teenagers, it will be a place that can help them build new friendships or strengthen existing ones. At Boys & Girls Clubs, long tables encourage group activities, but in your teen's space it could be as simple as extra seating for their friends.

Creating a great space for your teen is possible by focusing on what makes them unique. Make the space personal and functional with these five tips, and you'll create a space that your teenager, and their friends, can't wait to enjoy.

To learn more about the Renovation Across the Nation grants program and in-store donation opportunities to support Boys & Girls Clubs of America at Lowe's stores, visit BGCA.org. To find products and materials to renovate a room for your teen, visit Lowes.com.

TRICKS OF THE TRADE: HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR KITCHEN RENOVATION By BPT

"The new LG STUDIO line that I helped design features pro-style design elements that instantly make a kitchen feel high-end," says Berkus.

The golden rules of home improvement Considering a kitchen renovation but not sure how to get the most out of your space and budget?

. "There is so much design inspiration out there: Instagram, Pinterest, design blogs, and so many others," says Berkus. "Find out what you are drawn to and what catches your eye. Ask yourself how you want to live in the space and what's most important to you. The design needs to support that."

Invest where it counts Appliances are expensive, but you want to buy the very best you can afford. Considering how much use they get and how long you want them to last, it's a worthwhile investment. "The new LG STUDIO line that I helped design features pro-style design elements that instantly make a kitchen feel high-end," says Berkus. Stretch your renovation dollars

Expert tips can help you focus your plans so you get the kitchen of your dreams for less money and less stress.

"Redesigning your kitchen is a big investment," says A-list designer Nate Berkus, Artistic Advisor of LG STUDIO line. "It's not just about the money; you're also investing a lot of time and emotion. There are so many decisions to make, and you want them to be the right ones. You also want to create a space that reflects the people who live there. A well-designed kitchen needs to be functional and personalized."

That's a heavy order, but Berkus offers advice to cut through the confusion by providing seven tips for a smart kitchen renovation that any homeowner can follow.

Be realistic and research

Berkus suggests that homeowners start with a realistic assessment of their budget and a wish list. After nailing those down, spend some time online looking for images that best reflect your

"It's the old adage, don't throw the baby out with the bathwater," says Berkus. "If your cabinets are in good condition, you can save a ton of money by painting them. When it comes to flooring, don't rip it out if you can refinish. Save where you can and then you can spend more of your budget on things that you really love, and are more important, like the appliances." Add personal touches For dressing up your kitchen, shop your home and use things you already own. "Objects from your travels, framed photographs, ceramic bowls or handwoven baskets are all things that personalize a space and make it feel layered," says Berkus. Enhance small spaces To maximize small spaces, do something unexpected. "Could the cabinets be painted dark gray or black? Could you use some un-lacquered brass hardware for shine? Can you add a backsplash in antique or aged mirror?" Berkus says. Divide big spaces into zones To get the most out of a larger kitchen, Berkus suggests using a zone approach. "For example, the island and its location will determine where the appliances sit," he says. "In addition, a large open kitchen allows the opportunity to add an eat-in area. Why not add a built-in banquette upholstered in easy-toclean materials like outdoor fabric or leather?" Think long-term

personal style.

For an investment that lasts, Berkus says to err on the side of classic elements and finishes like stone, nickel, brass, steel, painted shaker cabinets and subway tile. "One of my go-to's is LG's Black Stainless Steel finish. It's both sophisticated, functional and will up the design ante in any kitchen. It is also fingerprint- and smudge-resistant, making it perfect for families." Need more renovation inspiration? Check out the LG STUDIO Virtual Designer Tool to experiment with different styles and appliance combinations to create your dream kitchen.

Ladies purchased by contacting the information below. It is also available on Amazon and Books-A-Million. available for purchase. CONTACT INFORMATION For speaking engagements or group workshops on the workbook, please see below. Email:

devchestnut@gmail.com or

Phone: Devon Chestnut

(786) 507

8204

R E A L

P O W E R

M O V E S

I N

S I L E N C E

BUSINESS C H E A K W O O L F O L K . C O M

Â 3 REASONS TO Â GO CASHLESS By BPY

The dollar, the euro, the pound, the yen... the currency people use around the world has many different names, but it all shares something in common. Paper forms of currency are out and digital payments are in. The security and convenience of card based electronic payments and digital payments are driving a global shift away from cash. As consumers and merchants around the world become more and more digitally connected this shift will continue to accelerate. All over the world, the shift toward cashless payments is well underway. On the beaches of Cabo San Lucas, taco and tamale vendors are starting to offer their delicious food to customers with the swipe or tap of a card on a mobile phone. In Singapore, consumers can rent bikes, pay for their morning coffee and split their dinner bill without ever needing cash, and in Warsaw, as cashless payments are becoming increasingly accepted, tourists can start to tap and pay their way around the city without carrying cash. Changes abroad, changes at home The United States is seeing similar changes. Cash and checks are on their way out and swiping, dipping, tapping and clicking are filling the void - benefiting consumers and businesses alike.

A recent Cashless Cities study from Visa, set to be released later this year, finds that if businesses in the top 100 U.S. cities transitioned from cash to digital payments, those businesses and their cities would experience net benefits of $312 billion per year. Businesses in New York City alone would net $6.8 billion while saving more than 186 million hours in labor. But the benefits of taking checks and cash out of the system do not stop at labor cost efficiencies. They include: * Convenience. Consumers and businesses alike benefit from the speed and convenience of electronic and digital payments. Faster checkout times mean more sales for businesses and more time to spend on the important things in life for consumers. * Security. Accepting cash payments has always placed businesses in a bind; as their revenue increases, so does their risk of falling victim to theft. Transitioning to cashless payment options enhances security and reduces risk for businesses and their customers. * Reduced costs. Cash payments must be counted, stored and transported. There are costs associated with all of these processes. Adopting cashless payments saves businesses time and money. Moving forward to take advantage of cashless opportunities Many businesses across the country are already benefiting from going cashless, but for companies - particularly small businesses that have yet to take the leap - now is the perfect time to make such a change. Visa is announcing The Visa Cashless Challenge, a call to action for small business restaurants, cafĂŠs or food truck owners to describe what cashless means for them, their employees and customers. Visa will be awarding up to $500,000 to 50 eligible U.S.-based small business food service owners who commit to joining the 100 percent cashless quest.

3 steps to help freelancers and gig Â economy workers Â avoid a tax blunder

By: BPT

More and more people are earning extra cash by freelancing in the sharing economy. That may mean writing on the side, playing music on the weekends, driving for ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft or selling handmade jewelry on Etsy. No matter how the money flows in, gig economy earners must be aware of the related tax obligations and potential pitfalls.

"While it's easier now than ever to earn extra cash, it's important for freelancers and independent contractors to get smart about their tax responsibilities," said Mark Jaeger, director of Tax Development for TaxAct, a leading provider of affordable do-it-yourself tax software. "Gig economy earners must remember they are responsible for paying federal and state income tax on any income earned. And, they're also subject to self-employment tax, to cover Social Security and Medicare taxes."

If you're one of the 55 million Americans who chooses to freelance, it can be difficult to correctly calculate and report to the IRS how much tax you owe. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the National Association of Enrolled Agents found that, "independent contractors participating in the gig economy were cited as among those most at risk of failing to accurately report all of their income."

Taxpayers who miscalculate taxes owed are likely to get a form called a CP2000 from the IRS. According to the agency, that form means, "the income and/or payment information the IRS has on file doesn't match the information on your tax return." That could result in issues with your tax bill.

Jaeger said the best way for gig economy workers to avoid a tax misstep is to be diligent and plan ahead now. He provided the following tips to help freelancers get on track so they're ready to tackle taxes head-on this tax season.

1. Get organized

Whether you work full time and earn a little extra cash from a side hustle or you're a full-time contractor, meticulous record-keeping is a must. One option is to keep track of all business expenses and related receipts in one large folder. Jaeger recommends taking that one step further by categorizing receipts into specific folders for example, one folder for mileage and maintenance records, a second for rent or dues if you lease a workspace, and a third for office equipment and business-related equipment. Once a quarter, as you determine what you'll owe for quarterly tax payments, make note of which of those receipts are deductible.

2. Keep track of your income

When you're freelancing, you're your own accounting department. Not only are you responsible for generating invoices and collecting payment, you must also keep track of all income earned and accurately report it to the IRS. That can get complicated when multiple income streams are at play.

For example, gig economy workers who make money freelancing for multiple clients while also moonlighting as an Uber or Lyft driver should track all income and expenses separately. That means keeping accurate records of any money paid directly by clients and keeping track of income reported on documents such as Forms 1099MISC and 1099-K. These forms are issued when self-employment income exceeds $600 (1099-MISC) and when a contractor is paid through credit- and debit-card payment processors (1099-K). Come tax time, fill out a Schedule C for every company or client who has paid you to report all of the income you earned.

3. Make estimated tax payments

The IRS requires independent contractors to file and pay taxes on a quarterly basis, even if you anticipate getting a refund at the end of the tax year. Use a tax calculator to help determine whether you should make estimated tax payments. You can also use Worksheet 2.1 in IRS Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals, to figure out whether you must pay estimated tax. Whatever method you choose, make sure you calculate adjusted gross income, taxable income, taxes, deductions and credits.

As a rule of thumb, if you will owe at least $1,000 in taxes, you should plan to pay estimated taxes during the current tax year. Jaeger added, "If you owe estimated quarterly payments but don't pay them in full, you could face an underpayment penalty by the IRS."

Earning extra money from your freelance work or side gig may not make you feel like you're self-employed, but in the eyes of the IRS, you are. By planning ahead, getting organized and doing your own taxes with an affordable online option such as TaxAct, you can avoid tax missteps and stay focused on what matters most: earning income on your own terms!

Classics reinvented with tech: How technology has updated Â arts and crafts

BY BPT AND TEAM

Modern technology has revolutionized many aspects of our day-to-day lives. While it is hard for some to imagine a day without social media, smartphones and Wi-Fi, these were not available a mere 20 years ago. Technology has revolutionized the way we order food, purchase clothes and read books. "Technology used to be considered a separate entity from arts and crafts," said Stephanie Leichtweis, CEO of Fibre-Craft, a leader in creative activities. "We believe it is vital to incorporate these together, and are working to meld tech innovations with artistic expression to provide a nuanced version of online and offline activities." To see the full influence of technology on arts and crafts, Fibre-Craft has outlined some ways that classic crafts have been redefined by technology: Design, upgraded Art projects used to be inspired by books, classes and our own imagination. The world we found ourselves in dictated our crafts of necessity and the ones for fun. With the advent of social media, inspiration and creation are driven from many different platforms. The way that we participate in arts and crafts has changed as we garner ideas from others and share ours with those not only in our neighborhood but around the world. "DIY and crafts" is one of the top three most-pinned and most-browsed categories on Pinterest, one of the leading platforms for inspiration, along with YouTube. A recent survey found that nearly 40 percent of adults who worked on an arts and crafts project found inspiration on YouTube, and one in three turned to Pinterest. And when complete, individuals can also share their own finished pieces to inspire others as well! Coloring + painting redefined Coloring has been a pastime for decades; the first coloring book was published in the 1880s. It is a great activity for children, as it can provide hours of entertainment and is easy to take on-the-go. Just as painting "by numbers" updated a classic art form in the 1950s, newer technologies are giving coloring and painting a 21st-century twist.

The newest way to color has arrived with the launch of an art/tech hybrid - DabitZ. The latest series from Fibre-Craft, DabitZ merges the artistic spirit with innovative technology to take classic coloring to new heights with "dabbing." Starter sets come with everything you need to try this photomosaic art form and to make your own masterpiece. DabitZ is inspired by the painting technique called Pointillism, so users don't need to be talented artists to "dab it up." Starter sets include templates called DabDesignZ, and the free DabitZ app can transform any picture into a template design as well. Simply take a photo, create a template, print it and dab it up, connecting technology to offline play and the world around us.

tPhotography update Capturing photographs is a treasured tradition that helps keep memories alive long after the moment has passed. As camera phones have become ubiquitous, they have reinvented how photographs are taken, shared and viewed. No longer do you have to wait to return from an adventure to share your activities - you can post on social media in the moment! And with highquality lenses on phones and filters on apps, you can create images worth 1,000 words - and likes. "Smartphones have made photographers out of all of us, and opened a range of possibilities," Leichtweis said. "With the new DabitZ app, everyone can take photography to the next level and create their own personal masterpiece." Handmade 2.0 Homemade gifts are one of the most treasured items to receive from a loved one, especially from a child. As they grow, many children provide handcrafted items to relatives, who can treasure these items for years to come. Handmade items are increasingly trendy in home dĂŠcor, fashion and foodstuffs. Those with special talents are able to capitalize on their craft, thanks to new online stores and marketplaces. This growing trend is a wonderful way to support artisans and causes whether at home or a world away. With new updates to technology, how we create arts and crafts will continue to change as well. To try the latest arts update, visit www.DabitZart.com or www.FibreCraft.com.

CREDIT UNION OR BANK: WHAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU? BPT

The banking and credit union worlds are as much the same as they are different. Both are eager to earn your business and to provide you with loans, mortgages, savings and checking accounts. With that said, there are some significant differences between the two financial institutions. In today's world, with cutthroat competition for your money, it's worth understanding the advantages of both, and perhaps making a switch to one or the other to put yourself in a better financial position.

Credit union and banks: The differences

The primary difference between a credit union and a bank is that a credit union is a not-forprofit cooperative, meaning it's owned by its members or customers. Profits made by credit unions are returned back to members in the form of reduced fees, higher savings rates and lower loan rates. A bank, on the other hand, is for-profit, owned by shareholders and focused on its stock value.

Joining a credit union is fairly simple, and membership is inexpensive - typically a one-time fee of between $5 and $25. Depending on where you live, many credit unions serve a geographic area, such as a state or metropolitan area, and are open to anyone who lives in that area. Some credit unions are employer-sponsored, so that anyone (including family members) who works for that organization can join.

There is no membership fee to "join" a bank. All you need to provide is some money to open a checking or savings account, a government-issued ID card, and some personal information (address, Social Security number, etc.).

Credit union advantages

Credit unions, by and large, are able to provide better rates to their members. Unlike a forprofit bank, credit unions return their "profits" to members in the form of lower rates on loans, higher interest on deposits and more personalized services. Other advantages of a credit union are that they tend to have lower fees on checks, withdrawals and electronic transactions, and many offer checking accounts with no minimum balance and without a monthly service charge. Finally, because credit unions are smaller and have a focus on member service, they may be more flexible when it comes to working with someone with financial challenges.

.Bank advantages

Banks, because of their size and scale, tend to offer more financial products than credit unions. For example, a credit union may have two or three different types of checking and savings accounts, whereas a bank may have dozens to choose from. Depending on where you live, banks will most likely have more locations for convenient access and more advanced online and mobile banking capabilities. Because of their geographic reach and wider range of offerings, a large bank could be a better fit for someone who wants specialized financial products (annuities, trusts) and needs access to nationwide locations.

Credit unions catching up

Depending on where you live, you may have numerous options for selecting a credit union. Some credit unions may have only one location and offer basic financial services like auto loans, checking and savings accounts. Other credit unions may have a large footprint in a market or state and offer the breadth of services you'd find in a bank. Most offer free, nationwide ATM access, and since many credit unions belong to cooperatives, members can access accounts across the country through other credit union branches. Bellco, for example, offers a full range of financial products and services, including mortgages, auto loans and checking accounts. Today, Bellco has more than 300,000 members who benefit from the advantages of a credit union, including lower interest rates on loans, higher yields on savings and access to thousands of ATMs nationwide.

Choosing a bank or credit union

Depending on where you live - urban vs. suburban vs. rural - your banking and credit union options will vary considerably. If you are in an area that offers both, there are several features to weigh and consider:

Services: Compare the basic banking services and access to specialized financial products, including advanced online services and mobile banking.

Rates and incentives: Look at the current rates, fees, and incentives - as well as overall benefits to being a customer or a member of the bank or credit union. Are there good reasons for joining one over the other?

Location: Evaluate options to access your accounts, whether it's branch locations or ATMs or mobile banking services, and decide whether a national footprint is a requirement for your banking.

Finally, it's important to note that both banks and credit unions insure your money up to $250,000 per person, across a group of accounts (checking, savings, and CDs would be considered one group). The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insures banks, and credit unions are backed by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).

ACCESS TO CELLULAR DATA HAS BECOME THE LIFEBLOOD OF COMMUNICATIONS IN THE 21ST CENTURY. WE STAY CONNECTED TO KEEP UP WITH NEWS, WEATHER AND SPORTS,

HOW SAVVY WI-FI USE

LISTEN TO MUSIC, CHECK EMAIL, WATCH MOVIES AND VIDEOS OR GRAB NEW APPS THAT LET US DO EVEN MORE. WITH TODAY'S TECHNOLOGY, A FEW CLICKS ON YOUR SMARTPHONE SCREEN CAN BRING THE

SAVES DATA

WHOLE WORLD INTO THE PALM OF YOUR

AND DOLLARS

THIS IS GREAT NEWS FOR CELLULAR

HAND.

PROVIDERS, WHO PLY US WITH INCREASINGLY LARGE (AND INCREASINGLY EXPENSIVE) DATA PACKAGES TO FEED OUR MODERN NEED TO SURF AND STREAM WHEREVER WE GO. HOWEVER, IT MAY NOT BE SUCH GREAT NEWS WHEN YOUR CELLPHONE BILL ARRIVES EACH MONTH AND YOU FIND YOURSELF PONYING UP BIG BUCKS FOR CELLULAR DATA.

BY: BPT

SO WHAT'S THE EASIEST WAY TO STAY CONNECTED WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK? FORTUNATELY, THE ANSWER IS NOW ALL AROUND US.

Find the hotspots

Wi-Fi networks ("Wi-Fi" is short for wireless fidelity) are available just about anywhere you go these days, from hospitals to coffee shops to hotels to department stores. By connecting to Wi-Fi, it's possible to stay connected all day long without using any of your cellular data. With rare exceptions, it's completely free.

Wi-Fi technology allows you to connect smartphones, laptops or tablets to the internet through a communal access point, or "hotspot." The resulting data usage is not occurring on your mobile network, meaning it does not count against the data on your cellphone plan.

It's easy to connect to Wi-Fi by turning it on in your smartphone's settings. By leaving it on, your phone will always be searching for a strong Wi-Fi signal, and will either connect automatically or alert you to sign-in if an available network is password protected.

More speed, more power

There are other advantages. In many cases, the speed of a strong, dedicated Wi-Fi connection will actually be faster than your cellular network. The difference might not be that obvious if you are only reading email or checking out a web page, but it is very noticeable if you need to transfer larger files.

In addition, using Wi-Fi can make a difference in extending your device's battery life. The further you are from a cellular tower, the more energy you need for that data signal to be of any use. Wi-Fi access points are typically much closer, and therefore use less power to communicate and transfer data.

An essential "Plan B"

While hotspots are now quite common, you'll still find yourself in locations where Wi-Fi simply isn't accessible, especially when you're traveling. That's why having an adequate cellular data plan is still a necessity, even if you're using it very little.

How much data do you really need? After you've started using Wi-Fi on a regular basis, take a look at your monthly cellphone bill. Compare the amount of data your plan offers to the amount you actually use. The average consumer uses about 1.8 gigabytes (GB) of data each month, which is far less than what's included in most standard cellphone plans.

Don't pay for more than you need

Today, many carriers tout the advantages of having "unlimited" data. The reality is that most people will never need it. See if your carrier offers a plan that's better aligned with your actual usage, and if so, find out if it's easy to switch.

If not, look to carriers like Consumer Cellular, who specialize in providing smaller, more affordable data plan options along with the flexibility to switch plans from month-to-month with no additional fees. This gives you the freedom to adjust your data plan to fit your specific needs, rather than paying for more than you're likely to use.

Regularly connecting to Wi-Fi lets you preserve your cellular data for those situations when you really need it. Perhaps more importantly, it can help you save significantly on your monthly cellphone bill. It is a great way to enjoy the best of both worlds.

How to make sure your financial advisor is working in your best interest Contributed By: BPT

Let's face it: finances can be complicated. Whether opening a new investment account, saving for your child's college fund or rolling over a 401(k), sometimes you need professional financial help. But who to turn to? A financial advisor can be a great resource for professional guidance so that you're not making critical investment decisions on your own, but did you know that not all financial advisors are equal? Some financial advisors may be little more than salespeople trying to sell you investment products that may or may not be in your best interest, but earn them a hefty commission. If you're looking for an advisor who truly has your back, you need to work with what is called a "fiduciary." As a fiduciary, your advisor is legally required to place your interests ahead of their own. It can be difficult to know who to trust - especially when advisors misrepresent their services with carefully crafted wording that gives the appearance of being a fiduciary, even when they are not. According to a recent survey from Financial Engines, America's largest independent investment advisor, 53 percent of Americans mistakenly believe that financial advisors are already legally required to put their clients' best interest first. Only 50 percent of investors who work with a financial advisor are certain that their advisor is a fiduciary, while 38 percent don't know if their advisor is a fiduciary or not. Most investors aren't aware of how their advisors get paid and that advisors may not always be acting in their client's sole best interest. For example, some advisors may recommend clients invest in funds or services that provide the advisor with a commission. Sometimes doing so is mutually beneficial for both the investor and the advisor. But other times, the investor may end up with higher or unnecessary fees and it's the advisor who comes out on top. So how can you tell if a potential or current advisor is a fiduciary? Here are a few key questions to ask before making a decision to work with them: * Are you a fiduciary? A direct question deserves a direct answer. Pay attention to how the advisor responds. If your advisor has told you that he or she is acting as a fiduciary, ask them to show that to you in writing. * Do you receive any type of compensation in addition to what I'm paying you? Some advisors receive commissions or other product-based compensation when they steer clients into particular investment products (including mutual funds, annuities and variable annuities). This is a clear conflict of interest and can indicate that the advisor is not, in fact, a fiduciary. Make sure your advisor is providing unbiased advice and not simply selling you investment products. * Are you "dual-registered"? Some advisors are registered as both investment advisors and broker-dealers. Often, a broker-dealer is acting in the role of a salesperson. If your advisor is also a broker-dealer, make sure you understand which hat they are wearing when providing advice to you.

According to a Financial Engines survey, 53 percent of Americans mistakenly believe that financial advisors are already legally required to put their client's best interest first. Make sure the financial advisor you turn to is a fiduciary.

* Have you ever been cited by a professional or regulatory body for disciplinary reasons? To be extra sure, you can look up the advisor's records on FINRA's BrokerCheck to find out if they have any complaints especially complaints related to providing financial and advisory services. As your finances become more complex, you may consider getting help from a financial professional. Make sure your advisor is required to act in your best interest as a fiduciary before you trust them with your hardearned money. By asking the right questions, you can confidently navigate the process and choose an advisor who is right for you.

SEEKING A SMALL BUSINESS LOAN? WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

BPT

Small businesses still struggle to obtain credit; nearly half of those who applied for credit in 2016 didn't get all the funding they sought, and 17 percent of those who didn't apply for financing skipped it because they didn't think they could get what they needed, according to the Federal Reserve Banks' Small Business Credit Survey. However, a growing number of small businesses are turning to alternative sources of financing.

"The process for accessing and receiving funding can be slow and cumbersome and alternative forms of lending are greatly helping to improve the availability of financing for small business owners," says Jacqueline Reses, head of Square Capital. "Ensuring that the financial system is more inclusive and addresses the needs of small business owners who may have been previously underserved by traditional lenders is paramount."

The Federal Reserve study has shown steadily increasing numbers of small businesses, with annual revenues of less than $1 million, seeking financing through non-traditional sources such as online lenders. In 2014, just 18 percent applied to online lenders, while

Eighty-four percent of small business owners who accept a loan through Square Capital say it has helped them grow sales or revenue (source: January 2017 survey by Square Capital).

in 2016, 21 percent did.

As the alternative lending industry continues to grow, small business owners should keep five points in mind when evaluating loan offers, Reses says:

Total payback amount of a loan

Knowing how much a loan is going to cost isn't always easy. For a small business owner, being able to see exactly how much you will need to repay and accounting for that in your budget is crucial, and you should always look for transparency. Total payback amount is the dollar value that represents all costs, so business owners know exactly what they will owe over the life of the loan. Businesses should look for this when they assess loan offers. Assessing offers solely on other metrics like APR may not always provide a fair or easy comparison.

Eighty-four percent of small business owners who accept a loan through Square Capital say it has helped them grow sales or revenue (source: January 2017 survey by Square Capital).

Repayment Method The ease of repayment is also important to consider and there are some unique options available to small businesses looking for flexibility when it comes to repayment. With Square Capital for example, a fixed repayment amount is automatically deducted from the business's daily card sales processed through Square until the loan is repaid, enabling the business to pay more when things are busy and less if things slow down. Businesses also have the opportunity to repay early and without penalty at any time before the end of the loan term. Speed Traditional small business loans can take weeks to process from the time you collect all the paperwork to apply, to the time you actually get approved, to when you see the money in your account. Yet, according to the Fed's survey, the majority of small businesses that applied for credit in 2016 did so in situations where time was a factor; 64 percent wanted to expand their business or take advantage of a new opportunity, and 45 percent needed the money to cover operating expenses. While some funding sources have a reputation for being faster to approve, getting the money can still take time small business owners don't have. Others have been able to tackle both of those challenges. For example, Square Capital can see the health of a small business based on its sales and transaction data, allowing it to evaluate the business's stability and actual ability to repay over time. With this unique insight, it can assess eligibility for a loan and deliver offers right to the small business owner. From there, an application takes as little as a few clicks to complete and once approved, funds are deposited as quickly as the next business day. Affordability

Business owners may know how much they need, but be less aware of what size loan they can afford. It's important to accept a loan offer that your business can repay within a reasonable time period while also helping it grow. Square Capital's ability to use unique data to assess the eligibility of a business for a loan also enables it to provide access to loan offers tailored to a business's cash flow, reducing the risk of businesses borrowing more than they can afford to repay. Loans are sized based on a reasonable projected payback period so that a small business can use its funds to grow and not be stuck in debt for extended time periods. Trust Before applying for credit from any lender, it's important to do your research. Know how they present their offers, look for transparency and flexibility that puts the borrower first and understand customer satisfaction and lender dependability. Working with a trusted brand is important to many small business owners and should be to you as well. While online lenders are opening up access to the financing small businesses need to run and grow, it's important to do your homework and carefully determine which financial partner best meets the needs of your business. To learn more about small business loans through Square Capital, visit www.squareup.com/capital.

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