RENEW
Magazine WINTER 2018
ASK
DR. J JANICE UNDERWOOD
OUTFIT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAY PARTY SEASON
MAKING TIME FOR YOU ~
PARENTS SURVIVAL
GUIDE
GARAGE
MAKEOVER FRESHEN UP HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING
Contents
RENEW Magazine is a publication designed for and targeted to women. RENEW is an acronym; Revitalize, Educate, Nurture, & Empower Women. RENEW Magazine provides readers with holistic, lifestyle editorial content benefiting women. Placement of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement.
3 Reclaim Your Garage Space
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4 Freshen Up Holiday Entertaining
6 The Growth of Online Learning 7 Festive Holiday Outfit Ideas
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RENEW Magazine is published by Orchard Business Group. Articles are the opinions of the writers and do not reflect the opinion of the publisher, advertisers, or their agencies. All copy is protected and cannot be reproduced without written permission from Orchard Business Group. Publisher further claims no responsibility for errors or omissions.
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8 Ask Dr. J- Janice Underwood
Orchard Business Group Eneida Orchard - Publisher/Editor P.O. Box 593 • Lightfoot, VA 23090-0593 757-561-5219 info.renew.va@gmail.com
9 Making Time For You: A Parents Survival Guide 10 Create a Healthy Winter Ready Home www.renewvamagazine.com
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Front Cover: _81446246_xl-2015
TIPS TO CREATE A RESUME THAT LANDS YOU INTERVIEWS
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ave you been applying for jobs and sending your resume out at every opportunity only to be met with total silence? The jobs are out there and you know you are capable, so, what’s the problem?
©Olivier Le Moal/stock.Adobe.com
(StatePoint)
“Remember, your resume is an advertisement of yourself, and if it is flawed, you are seen as flawed.” says Michael McAuliffe, president of Family Credit Management. “The objective is to make you look as good as you can on paper while being honest.”
Perfecting Your Resume Sixty-one percent of recruiters will automatically dismiss a resume because it contains typos, according to CareerBuilder. Start by combing over every line, eliminating typos, inconsistencies, spacing issues and other errors. At some point, put your resume aside and return to it a bit later with a fresh pair of eyes or even ask a trusted friend or family member to take a look at it as well. Be sure your resume is in the right format for your industry. Some industries favor a straightforward listing of previous positions, others favor highlighting accomplishments and skills attained. If you aren’t sure about your industry’s resume preferences, you can easily Google this information. The Hiring Process Beyond typos and formatting, there may be another factor killing your prospects. More than half of job candidates are eliminated from the online job search by an applicant tracking system, which filters out resumes that don’t match the job description. This means if you don’t use the right words and put them in the right order, your resume will never be seen by human eyes. Here is a typical hiring process for a medium-sized company which gets around 100 to 200 applications per position, according to Dr. John Sullivan, an internationally known HR thought-leader in Silicon Valley: 1. The 100 to 200 will get filtered down to around 25 applications and given a 20-30 second view. 2. Of the 25, they will get a second look and filtered down to about five to 10 applications. 3. These five to 10 are assessed and maybe tested to narrow it down to three to five. 4. Those three to five candidates will get an interview. 5. Only one person will be hired. Cracking the Code Want to crack the code that will get your resume viewed and short-listed, and land you an interview? Consider leveraging free resources designed to help. For example, Family Credit Management, the non-profit credit counseling agency, has expanded their services to include a free resume review service. By emailing your resume to resumereview@familycredit.org, along with which position you are applying for or what type of job you’re seeking, you can get free feedback and pointers on your resume from financial experts. To learn more, visit familycredit.org. “Navigating the job market is never simple, however, smart strategies can help you become more effective in your hunt,” says McAuliffe.
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ituate your space and your stuff on paper before lugging it around on the concrete. Map out your garage and divide it by zones: indoor-outdoor transition, household overflow, large/long/long term, everyday yard gear; and hobbies. Let the map be your guide as you sort and assign your stuff. Admit it’s an Entryway
RECLAIM YOUR GARAGE SPACE
Saddled with groceries, you stop in the garage and juggle keys, coffee, cell phone and more. For your kids, your spouse, and - let’s be honest - a handful of friends, this is the primary entry to your home. Ease the transition with surfaces for setting and hooks for hanging. Consider lockers or storage benches for backpacks, shoes and boots, and a rug or scraper to cut the dirt or snow tracked inside. If your garage is an extension of your kitchen, designate a spot for supplies like soda pop or paper towels.
Use the space you’ve created in your garage to host a tag sale, donating anything of value that doesn’t sell. Proceeds can fund a favorite charity or a future family vacation. Enlist your kids to spread the word with neighbors who might like to hold their own sales on the same day.
Find Your Station Sports enthusiast? Garden grower? Grease monkey? If space allows, station a hobby center directly opposite the large garage door: Include a well-lit work surface so you can see what’s at hand. Keep it clear by storing small tools and supplies on the slatted walls that allow you to clip and endlessly rearrange an assortment of hooks, racks and baskets - whether you need to gather golf gloves, pressure gauges or pruning shears. Above the Rest The minute anything but your tires hits the garage floor; it’s the beginning of the end for your organization aspirations. You can mount heaps of things to the walls to spare your floor from pileups and make cleanup easy. Tug on wall systems to make sure they’re stable; If it’s not tight, it’s not right. Layer by Hazard and Height Store children’s items close to the ground, with things you’ll need to share at mid-level. Stow “adult” items - chemicals, breakables, or sharp tools overhead and behind lockable cabinet doors if necessary. Take Sides Hook or hang awkward seasonal tools - snow shovels, leaf rakes, folding chairs - on the walls nearest the garage door to lessen the likelihood that you’ll ding your cars by dragging things along the length of your stalls.
Inner Space Systems has a storage solution for every budget
Lighten Up No one wants to spend time in a dim garage with hidden hazards. Shed a little (or a lot of ) light on the issue. Install long-lasting, energy-efficient bulbs overhead and clip or hook mobile task lights in places where you’re most likely to need them. Multiply the effect by coating your ceiling with light, reflective paint. Mobilize Your Masses You’ll only get so far sorting everyone’s stuff by yourself. Dedicate a day of family garage-keeping complete with preplanning and recreation. Purchase organizers and cleanup supplies ahead of time. Define the project’s time and punctuate with snacks. Park curbside so you can move all garage contents to the driveway to conquer clutter by category. Assign an older child to burn a “garage grooves” soundtrack with pace-setting family favorites. Appoint a project photographer to capture before, after and candid shots.
Inner Space Systems has a storage solution for every budget: • Custom closet, pantries, home offices, • Custom glass shower and tub enclosures • Custom Mirrors • Bath Hardware (including ADA compliant hardware) ventilated closet shelf system by Schulte, to an adjustable system – freedomRail® by Schulte, to a fully integrated laminate shelf system by ORG®. Our experience and knowledge of the industry is our customer’s advantage. To control quality, we fabricate our closet, pantry, garage and other storage systems in our warehouse.
Serving Hampton Roads since 1978! 3535 Elmhurst Lane • Portsmouth, VA 23701
757.487.1101 www.issvip.com
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THE CHANGING FACE OF THE AMERICAN STUDENT: THE GROWTH OF ONLINE LEARNING
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oday’s college students are just as likely to be moms and dads themselves, full-time and part-time employees or members of the U.S. armed forces. Many students juggle work and family, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, which found that 62 percent of students work full- or part-time, and 29 percent have at least one dependent. Needing flexibility and variety in course offerings, more students are turning to online learning to design a path that fits their lifestyle. As a result, online learning is seeing significant growth. A recent study found more than 6 million students take online courses across the U.S., and that number continues to rise. At ASU Online, (BPT) programs have grown significantly, with a 60 percent increase in freshman enrollment since fall 2016 to more than 35,000 students in over 175 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. As part of ASU EdPlus, created to advance inclusion, efficiency and innovation, the online program implements technologies students need to succeed, paired with committed coaches and academic advisors. “At ASU, we work diligently to lay the right groundwork for each student at a personal and individual level because we know there is no silver bullet to student success,” said Leah Lommel, chief operating officer of ASU Online. “Each learner is unique - what works for one may not work for another. This reality requires a tireless commitment to innovation on the part of higher education.” CAREER SUCCESS Access to higher education remains the best pathway to career success, directly impacting employment opportunities and wages. The Center on Education and the Workforce found that bachelor’s degree holders earn 31 percent more than workers with an associate’s degree and 74 percent more than those with a high school diploma. Further, emerging technologies and the changing nature of industries have created a demand for new types of skilled workers. Higher ed programs need to be flexible and adaptable, allowing students to study during the hours - or minutes - that fit their schedules. With online programs, students can gain practical knowledge throughout their program that can be immediately applied on the job, making them even more valuable in their current roles. As online programs continue to expand, students are more closely able to map coursework to their desired field of work. Support structure is key to successAdoption of online learning is fueled by the fact that universities are discovering that it can be just as effective as face-to-face learning. However, support and guidance are essential to success. From strong faculty support to success coaches and career advisors, universities providing high-touch student services throughout a student’s journey see the best outcomes. For students stepping back into school after many years, support and encouragement are key. The ASU Online Student Success Center, which pairs each student with a personal success coach, has seen enrollment scale five-fold. Coaches are a lifeline as students juggle life with studying and coursework. Facilitating conversations with students related to academic and personal goals, and career aspirations, coaches offer support, help students overcome obstacles and connect them to other campus resources. Online learning allows universities to meet students where they are, academically and personally. Today’s student is approaching education from a new standpoint, with different requirements and needs. The power of innovation in online learning means that each student can complete a degree in a way that was simply not possible before. Interested in learning more about ASU Online’s programs? Check out https://asuonline.asu.edu/online-degree-programs to explore the range of options ASU Online offers. 6 RENEW
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3 FESTIVE OUTFIT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAY PARTY SEASON
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itting the holiday party circuit is the perfect excuse to give those casual clothes and athleisure a night off and dress up in eye-catching, festive attire.
An amazing pair of shoes can be one of the best conversation starters at an upcoming winter celebration, according to Nichole Duck, buyer for shoe retailer Off Broadway Shoe Warehouse. From glimmering and glittery shoes to footwear featuring glamorous metallic tones, she is providing the top trends that are sure to perfect your holiday party look. (StatePoint)
Glam it up with Glitter Shoes featuring glitter accents promise just the right amount of sparkle and shine.
Ideas to try: • A closed toed pump with a 3-inch heel adorned with glitter can be spectacularly paired with a high fashion slip dress and smoky eye. • Combine a solid-colored sheath and shimmery pumps with elegant statement jewelry to complete the look.
Try Metal Tones “Because metallic tones accentuate a broad range of color palettes, they serve as a neutral accessory for a favorite holiday outfit,” says Duck. Ideas to try: • Pair a bell-sleeve top and leather leggings with metallic heels. A hint of ruffle detail will add texture and tone to bejeweled footwear. • A pointed pump in silver or gold combines nicely with a pencil skirt featuring a statement silhouette.
Go Red While red is traditionally safe for any holiday party, this year‚Äôs ‚Äúit‚Äù color is a fullbodied and vibrant shade. Ideas to try: • Match a little black dress with a pair of pumps in a bold shade of red. This striking color also enhances luxurious accessories made of velvet, satin or even tulle. • Pair classic black stilettos with a red cashmere sweater and jeans for a casual, yet elegant style. With more than 80 locations from coast to coast, Off Broadway Shoe Warehouse offers many selections of high fashion styles from top designer and name brands that can be worn for an upcoming holiday party. Visit offbroadwayshoes.com for more information. This holiday season, look your best at celebrations. Set the tone with the right pair of shoes. WINTER 2018 RENEW 7
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ore questions from our neighbors and friends around Hampton Roads about things that we are all thinking and talking about. Remember, that you can get in the conversation too; so, if you have anything you would like to share or ask, please email me at mailto: janicebellunderwood@gmail.com. I assure you that you will receive the JANICE UNDERWOOD highest level of professionalism, courtesy, and compassion to which many of you have grown accustomed. In turn, I fully expect that we all maintain the highest levels of respect for each other in our discourse. I would also like to note, when you send a question or comment, your real name will not be used to ensure your privacy. Hope to chat with you soon.
ASK
DR. J
Megan: Hi Dr. Underwood! I am so glad to ask you a question that I think we are talking about privately amongst our inner circle friends. My daughter got her period in the 2nd grade! Why are our children developing so fast? Dr. J: I must admit that this question hits home for me. I see this among my children, family, and friends. I think, bluntly might I add, our children are developing at faster rates because of the food we have available. This is quite controversial and comes with so much baggage that we are left with more questions than answers. When we grocery shop, whether online or in person, we are bombarded with so many choices like, all-natural, antibiotic and hormone free, non-GMO, or not. We know that the healthiest foods come with heavier price tags and the most convenient, low-cost foods are the ones that we should probably avoid. Why is this? Are these foods labeled honestly? Who is controlling what goes into our grocery stores? Why aren’80ôt we allowed to know which foods are genetically modified? Why are so many folks drawn to watching shocking food documentaries that scare us into believing that no foods on the planet are healthy? There has to be some kind of balance! Bottom line, we must hold our elected officials accountable and continue this conversation in our homes and with the applicable institutions that are responsible for our food and safety.
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Thank you to everyone who submitted a question or comment. If you would like to submit a question, you can email me directly and confidentially at janicebellunderwood@gmail.com and your question could be featured in an upcoming issue of RENEW Magazine. I can’t wait to hear from you! Dr. Janice Underwood teaches at Old Dominion University, where she trains preservice teachers to engage diverse learners in K-12 science classrooms. 8 RENEW
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MAKING TIME FOR YOU:
A Parent’s Survival Guide (StatePoint)
©lordn/stock.Adobe.com
P
arenthood is a demanding and busy job. With lunches to pack, homework to check, projects to oversee and activities to drive the kids to and from, it’s no wonder many parents find it challenging to squeeze in time for self-care.
But, if you want to keep up with your kids, it’s important to carve out time for healthy eating and exercise. Here are some ways to make more time for your own health, according to Courtney McCormick, dietitian for Nutrisystem.
Be an Early Riser Relish early morning peace by getting moving an hour or two before the kids start stirring. Work in your morning fitness routine, meditate to mentally prepare for the day, do yoga and prepare a healthy breakfast. The earlier you rise, the more such daily habits you can adapt.
Schedule It Schedule exercise the same you would a trip to the doctor’s office or hair salon. If it’s on a daily task list or calendar, you’re more likely to follow through. If positive reinforcement is a good motivator for you, use fun colored markers to record your various appointments and give yourself a big check mark or smiley face when you’ve completed a workout.
Get Prepped Nothing makes mornings more chaotic than having to pack lunches while trying to get everyone out the door. And packing lunch in a pinch can leave you susceptible to making hasty choices. Take about 10 minutes in the evening to prepare the next day’s lunches; you will thank yourself in the morning when you have healthy meals and snacks packed and ready to roll for yourself and your kiddos.
Other meal prep ideas: • Put together a bunch of meals on Sunday to simply pull out of the fridge and heat for quick, yet wholesome dinners on busy week nights. • Boil a dozen eggs for an easy protein-rich snack. Create baggie-sized portions of nuts and fruit. Prepping nourishing grab-and-go snacks for the afternoon crunch will help you stay on track.
Walk on Your Lunch Break If you find yourself really strapped for workout time, try taking a 30-minute walk before eating your lunch. Even doing light cardiovascular exercise for a half hour can help you stay in shape and shed some pounds.
Get the Kids Moving If you weren’t able to squeeze in a sweat session sans kids, round up the family and take a long, after-dinner stroll. Encourage your children to keep up a moderate pace, while sharing stories and highlights from the day and playing games like “I Spy.” More health and wellness tips can be found at leaf.nutrisystem.com. While it sounds counter-intuitive or even impossible to put yourself first when you’re a parent, prioritizing your health and fitness is essential to keeping up with parental demands. Stay focused on the fact that you still need time for you. WINTER 2018 RENEW
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