WeWzine | April, 2015

APRIL/MAY, 2015 ISSUE

WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN MAGAZINE

Who April’s Meet isApril’s Woman Month?

Who’s Paying Attention to the Speed Limit

CONTENTS 4

Woman of the Month

6

Business of the Month

7

Welcome New Members!

8

Racing Through Life

11 14

Successful Women of Modesto Calendar

Last Month’s Mixer

16 18

Meet the Board: Kimberly Vaughan

Applause for the Cause

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CONTENTS 19 20 22 23 24 26 28 31 32

Meet the Board: Cheryl Davey

Carrie & Brooklyn: A Mother Daughter Duo

Meet the Board: Melissa Bruce

Member News May Business of the Month

May Business of the Month

May Horoscopes

Meet the Board Angela Dennis

The Whole Woman Concept

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Woman of the Month

Darla Wirtjes Nelson believes that wellness is the key to happiness. And for Darla, wellness doesn’t just mean exercise. Wellness is a concept that she incorporates into every area of her life.

From her mind to her body to her soul, Darla focuses on taking care of herself through various means. Wellness is how she lives, not just something she does. “I love what exercise and nutrition can do for our health,” she stated.• “I have changed my life through implementing what I teach, and so my passion is for others to know for themselves what it means to know ‘wellness.’”

Darla’s quest for wellness and eagerness to help others is what led her to take a risk and cut her hours as a financial advisor to focus on becoming a health coach.

“I took a risk when I decided to focus less time on a profession that made pretty good money, in order to pursue my passion,” Darla explained. “I just realized when I got a little older that I wanted to do something fun; something that I could look forward to every day. To have a new career now, that I totally find fulfillment in, and to help others know that too, is truly rewarding.”

When Darla isn’t busy coaching clients and running the house for her three children and husband, she likes to volunteer with youth education. She enjoys teaching young people about financial responsibility through the Success for Teens program. “One of the most fulfilling projects I’ve been a

part of was bringing the Success for Teens program to a local charter school,” she stated. “It teaches all areas of success for our youth- that it’s not just about money, but truly about them fulfilling their own dreams, whatever those dreams may be. I hope that they will remember what I've taught them and apply to their own lives.”

In addition to mentoring youth, Darla also enjoys spending time with senior friends. Previously, she taught exercise classes to residents in local retirement communities. She still visits often and enjoys the wisdom the residents share with her.

Above everything else, Darla enjoys doing fun things with her kids and husband.

Connect with Darla via: email darlanbfitbwell@gmail.com website www.darlanbfitbwell.com

Healthy Tips from Darla One: Drink half your weight in ounces of water daily (example: if you weigh 150lbs, drink 75 ounces).

Two: Take time every day to consider all you are grateful for.

Three: Eat clean.

Four: Darla is happy to be a part of the Suc- Exercise for a minimum of 30 cessful Women of Modesto group. Her minutes per day, 4-5 days a week. goals are to make friendships in the group, to learn more about our community, to meet other women whom she can help with their well-being, and to impact someone's life in a positive way.

Five: Be kind to others.

The ‘whole woman’ to me encompasses our whole being. It’s very similar to wellness - I truly believe that its not just exercise and nutrition, but also our careers, our relationships, our thinking, our spiritualism, and more.” –Darla Nelson

WOMAN OWNED BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

L DIAMOND

WESTERN

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?

Broadening the scope of my product line and making more contacts.

What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?

Keep an open mind and do your research .

What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your business?

So far, Facebook has been very instrumental for me. I am still researching avenues What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?

Tell us about your business!

Persistence and being flexible

We sell western style items, jewelry, home decor, accessories, cowhide covered items, recycled barn wood items, leather tooling. Any customer that appreciates the western style of life or décor would love our creations.

Are there any resources or tools you’d like to share with other small business owners that have helped you run your business?

Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?

Being a business owner gives me the opportunity to schedule my time around home, grandchildren, our livestock and business.

What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why?

My family and friends. I have made items from purses, jewelry, leather tooling for years as gifts. I was strongly encouraged to sell to the public.

There are so many groups, vendor groups, women’s groups, etc. available on Facebook to help gain connections.

Do you have any new projects coming up that you are excited about?

I am always trying to coming up with new products and looking for suggestions from others. Most recently is the cowboy stadium seat.

Made out if 2" foam, saddle blankets and leather.

What is Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?

My next goal is to build a Website.

6

What do you do for fun and relaxation?

I work with my family's daily operation running cattle, shooting, ridding horses and quads, and reading.

If you could write a book, what would it be entitled?

"How to keep family friends and sanity" We have a wonderful and strong group of friends and family. I have 3 best friends that we have been together for over 40 years. One gal I have known all my life and our folks were great friends. And still very close. Our family (includes many friends) support each other in all avenues in each other's lives. I guess I can name the book more along the lines "life is an adventure and make the best if every day" my brother, sister and sisters from another mothers as we say are the most supportive and outgoing Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

I have been crafty all my life. I enjoy western decor and it is very expensive. I would not pay the asking prices for therefore I can not ask my customers to pay what I would not. I do everything I can to keep my prices manageable and yet make enough profit to keep my business going. I am always learning and finding better ways to create my items.

If you have a dream, follow it.

What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you You can always find me on Facebook or by email: www.facebook.com/ldiamondwestern Ldiamondwesterncreations@yahoo.com

WELCOME SUCCESSFUL WOMEN OF MODESTO APRIL MEMBERS

Amanda Hillsdale Angela Dennis Barbara Zavela Beverly Claussen Carman King Cheryl Davey Darla Nelson Deena Elliott Gina Morelli Ginny Hollis Helen Carey Jamila Barahona Jennifer Alves Jocelyn Cooper Kimberly Vaughan Kimmer Sue Kristine Winter Laura Tosti Leslie Crow Linda Ashley Linda Shaffer Maggie Okino Mandee Dunston

Melissa Bruce Melony Powys Rose Firpo Shelley J Schmidig Sherry Wright Shirley Hadley Tanja Wright Taunna Thornton Taycie Taylor Theresa Bettencourt Trish Stutfield

Cindy Martinez Crista Swier Cynthia Gianola Darlene Nyswonger Debbie Svopa Meeuwse

Deborah Rose Dorinda Reedy Gina Montiel Ginny Perkins Hallie Wass Irene Cortez Joann Delhart Judy Robinson Julene Tudor Julie Baker Kelli Davila Kelly Kelly Leslie Sousa Leslie Kazas Leticia Higares Linda Brown Lori Aderholt Lori Cole Margaret Ramsay Marie Davis

Alice Juarez Anne Wright Astrid Zuniga Betty Martinho Beverly Sanchez Brandy Marable Carolyn Welch Carrie Lowery Cheryl Schultz Christi Kimball Christina Rodrigues

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Marion Harrison Mary Farinacci Melanie Hernandez Melissa Nethercott Mia Abellar Michelle Thomasser Monica Vergara Nancy Moyer Nancy Segura Narinder Bahia Rebekah Remkiewicz Rebekkah Sidwell Sarah C Martins Sheila Byous Shelley Schmidig Sheri McCoy Stephanie Lewis Suzie Q Mihaltan Tamara Wilcox Theresa Ferrari Twyla Reece Victoria Boyington Virginia Madue単o Wendy Stokes Williesha McGee

Johanna Morell Title(s): Drifting Pretty Big Sister Organization(s): Drifting Pretty

“I love the feeling I get when I have full control of my car. •The feeling of the car gracefully sliding.”

- Johanna Morell

Many couples do projects together and it is a great bonding experience. •Johanna and her husband built a car together - and I don’t mean Johanna held tools in her hand while her husband built a car. •I mean she and her husband, side-by-side, built a car together!

She was 19 when she started “drifting.”

•If you are unfamiliar with drifting, you might recall a time that you took a corner too fast and lost traction on the back tires, causing you to make a quick correction to gain control and hopefully you were successful. •Many years ago in racing, back when tires were not as gripping as they are in modern racing, there was a lot of drifting and successful racers were forced to tighten up their skills to win.

Drifting was then, and is still, a skill that if mastered, can serve a racer well. •A racer who can glide a turn and brake at just the right moment has much to gain in lead time from an inexperienced driver without drifting skills. •It is an art in racing world.

Johanna began drifting in 2007 when her love for learning and for cars led her to “Drifting Pretty,” an organization that promotes women drivers.

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Morell recalls, “The hardest part to learn (about drifting) was initiating. •Initiating the car into the turn and holding it.” • Many drivers find it difficult to force a car into drifting and then suppressing the urge to correct; in essence… to drift. • Drifting is 8

that point in the turn that the car is in perpetual motion without control. •Regaining control occurs after the drift when you gain traction and continue in controlled movement. •Brake too soon and you have lost your racing position; brake to slow and again… you have lost your position. But brake just right, and you will gain the momentum to place a wider gap between you and your opponent(s).

Most racers will tell you that the art of drifting is knowing your craft so well through practice that you have full control even when the car is not gripping… that is drifting.

When asked what she loves the most about drifting, Morell responds with a spark in her eye, “I love the feeling I get when I have full control of my car. •The feeling of the car gracefully sliding.”

Photo by Sachiko Studio

Morell teaches women basic car maintenance and repair, and stresses the importance of getting to know your car.

While this is her hobby, she takes it very seriously and enjoys teaching others. •The organization has a Big Sister mentor

Successful Women of Modesto Member

program that encourages learning between drivers. • Morell serves as a Big Sister, sharing her knowledge with others who are less experienced and some who are more experienced. •She explains, “ I also help those who have been there just as long or even longer because we all know something or do something different.”

drifting. I am good at working on my car!”

Morell shares with her understudies, “It takes a few years to get really good. • I am good, but still learning.

• You always learn something new in

Submitted by Kimberly Vaughan Founder, Successful Women of Modesto

When asked what parting advice she might have for women who would like to follow in her drifting footsteps, she responded, “Take your time. Start small.

Always stay focused.

Practice!!”

About Drifting Pretty Drifting Pretty is one of the only all-woman drifting & racing schools in the USA. •It was established in 2003 by Nadine Toyoda-Hsu. Nadine and her then driving partner, Yoshie Shuyama, were the only women out on the United States’ drift tracks in the 2002-2003 drifting season and saw the need for a program like this. •Shortly after, word of their efforts spread and along came the original 14 members that were the first aspiring woman drifters to break the barriers and embrace the world of automotive enthusiasts and motorsports.

History In Drifting Pretty’s first year alone, the amount of women driving at drifting events in California increased 400%. •No longer was it odd to see a woman changing her tires at the track and jumping in the driver’s seat.

The first Drifting Pretty meetings encompassed the basics of working on cars and led the girls, only 4 months into the program, to use power tools and a lift to change a clutch. •At the end of that first year, they pulled an engine.

Drifting Pretty brought forward the first all-woman competition drifting team “Team Drifting Pretty” in 2004. •It was Team Drifting Pretty that were the first women competing in the World Famous Formula Drift Series. •ESPN2 came along and introduced Team Drifting Pretty to America in their own 30-minute episode of “Import Racers.” •Word of Drifting Pretty’s efforts to increase the level of female involvement in all types of motorsports spread quickly via international magazines, television and the Internet. •Fans, both male and female, from around the world email in to Drifting Pretty asking to open a chapter in their hometown.

Yokohama Tire company included Drifting Pretty on a national tour from 2004-2005 where Drifting Pretty members promoted the prestigous Yokohama brand and spoke out to empower other women to get involved in motorsports. •In 2005, founder Nadine ToyodaHsu was invited to SEMA Las Vegas to promote women in motorsports & Yokohama. •SEMA attendees won ride-alongs (or should we say Drift-Alongs) with Nadine in their proving grounds in front of hundreds of spectators.

Drifting Pretty has been featured in a variety of TV shows, features, articles and have been the topic of many fan’s term papers. •Speed Channel, ESPN2, the local news, the LA Times, Import Racer, Import Tuner, LA Weekly, Super Street Magazine, Current TV, and CNN have all featured Drifting Pretty.

To-date, over 75 women have graced the Drifting Pretty program and have made us what we are today-a world famous organization that aspires to break the barriers and lead women into the amazing world of motorsports. (The above is an excerpt from Drifting Pretty Website)

Deena Elliott Deena Elliott Design 209-614-3362 www.DeenaElliottDesign.UpperCaseLiving.net www.DeenaElliottDesign.com DeenaElliottDesign@Yahoo.com

(209) 577-5673

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April •••••Networking ••••••••••••••Mixer

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KIMBERLY VAUGHAN

SUCCESSFUL WOMEN OF MODESTO GROUP CHAIRMAN & PRESIDENT Kimberly Vaughan formed the Successful

The Vaughan home is a welcoming one.

Women of Modesto group in 2013 in an

From stray kittens to lost birds, the

effort to organize like-minded women in

household is filled with feathered and furry

the Central Valley and build a group that

creatures. •A strong love for animals keeps

would discuss the needs of women in the

the children involved in 4-H and animal

community, as well as to create means to

science. •A love for sports keeps summer

International Wedding Festival which is heading

give to the community.

filled with baseball games, trips to the

into its tenth year at the Modesto Centre Plaza.

river, swimming, soccer, road trips and The Vaughan family is blessed with six

In

dancing.

children and Kimberly is devoted to the

recent

years

Kimberly

broadened

her

repertoire to include partnership marketing with

development of her family. The family

Kimberly has spent the last 10 years

clients such as DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto. Her

businesses

family

organizing trade events and working in the

personal dreams were realized with the addition

together,

the

publication industry. • Kimberly Vaughan

of the Modesto Women’s Expo, as it has created

supporting

each

Events & Partnership Marketing produces

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Successful Women of Modesto member, Jennifer Alves, is a proud volunteer with Nineveh Outreach, a nonprofit organization founded in 1997 to ease the pain and sorrow of the discouraged and disadvantaged in the City of Modesto by providing groceries, clothing and medical assistance. Alves understands that type of sorrow well, as she watched her Mother lose everything due to a mental illness. “My Mother went from having beautiful things and shopping all the time, to not having anything to her name,” Alves explained. “It seems like it just happened overnight. And it was due to a mental disorder- it wasn’t her fault or anything she did wrong. My Mother didn't have anyone but me and this ministry (Nineveh) to help her.”

Clinics. Nineveh’s Hope Medivan and Dental Van provide free, compassionate, quality medical and dental care to children and adults who are otherwise unable to access these services. Staff and volunteers work with local doctors, dentists, and other health care professionals to provide access to the medical and dental attention their clients need.

“I am so grateful for this ministry and know that probably most, if not all, of the people we help are in the same situation as my Mother was… and Nineveh saved them too,” said Alves.

To learn more about Nineveh Outreach and the Hope Free Clinics, visit www.hopemedivan.com and www.ninevehoutreach.com.

Nineveh not only helps citizens in need by offering food and clothing, but they also provide medical assistance through their Hope Free

Submitted by Angela Dennis Successful Women of Modesto PR & Community Director

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DAVEY

CHERYL

SUCCESSFUL WOMEN OF MODESTO GROUP ONLINE

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Cheryl Davey the owner and founder of Virtually All, which was established October 2007.

She created her business because she wanted to get out of the cubicle and back to her family. Working for herself and from her home allows her the freedom to create the life that the Davey family desires. However, the Davey household is not a quiet one.

Cheryl and her husband, Bruce are raising their two young grandsons. You won’t find the Davey’s home much on the weekends in the summer as they love to spend time up in the mountains camping, fishing and other outdoor activities.

Cheryl has spent the last eight years helping other solo-prenuers create the business that they desire and deserve.

She is a self-proclaimed geek and many times can be found tinkering with software programs to help people grow their businesses online and make more money.

Strength in Beauty: A Talk with a Successful Mother-Daughter Team

Denair residents Wayne and Carrie Lowery are the proud parents of 18year-old Brooklyn Lowery, a member of the Successful Young Ladies of Modesto group. As a child, Brooklyn was often bullied and left out of activities by her classmates. As a parent, Carrie was often in tears, confused as to why these painful things were happening to her child. Through the challenges and obstacles, the Mother-Daughter duo grew closer and learned to depend on one another. “I really believe through all the tough times…we had to be a close knit family, we had to encourage and lift each other up,” explains Carrie. •“ I strongly believe in creating a strong, healthy self esteem, a confidence that no one can take away.• So, for Brooklyn, I always wanted to instill in her that she was beautiful… inside and out!• I would encourage her that no matter what you come across, hold your head high, be courageous, do hard things.• She was also taught to work hard, treat people with kindness and respect, even if they are not that way to you, but at the same time, hold your ground and always do what is right, even if it goes against the grain.• So for all those times I would be in tears just praying and not understanding why God would place her in these situations.... and to this day I still don't know the full answer,•but I now•see a STRONG, PASSIONATE, KIND, CARING

AND INDEPENDENT young lady who is ready to tackle the world!”

through.... Brooklyn is developing her own "self", as a mom it's a bit hard to let go of the control over certain things, or to allow certain freedoms Carrie will be a featured speaker at that come with growing up. While it's the Successful Women of Modesto’s got to be done, I am "mom" and while Youth Group (Successful Young LaI worry, I also know she is smart and dies) May mixer, and she and Brookstrong. lyn talked with WeWZine about their Brooklyn: As far as mother-daughter relationship, communication, overrelationships go, I definitely got lucky! coming obstacles, and being beautiful Ever since I was little I knew that my inside and out! relationship with my mom, was something special. I could never understand WeWZine: Tell us about the special why all my friends growing up were relationship you two share- do you embarrassed by their Mom or didn't have tips on communication for parwant to spend time with them. I was ents and children? always exactly the opposite! My Mom was At the May mixer, I am hoping not only the one I Carrie: I love my recould come to for lationship with my to share the way Brooklyn and I have been able to create a advice, support, or daughter! While I am comfort, she was alstill "Mom,” I love strong love/friendship as so the one I could our friendship!• • I mother and daughter.••I can't love being goofy give one big "rule" to go by but laugh with, have fun with, and be myself around her, I love share many tips that have with. that she is always worked for us. Maybe they can asking me how my help other mom/daughters do The tips I have on day was, and I get a the same. –Carrie Lowery good communica"love you mom" evtion to achieve a eryday! I love some great motherof our deep converdaughter relationship are simpleYou sations about things neither one of•us must be completely, transparently honcan explain and our light-heartest and you must be willing to listen. In ed conversations about our my house growing up, I was always weird quirks! •I love that when told to be honest with my parents no either of us is upset with the matter what. Whether it's something other that we can get over it and good or bad, something your dying to move on.• As for communication, share or aren't too proud of, the worst the most important thing is to be thing you can do is to lie. Being willing honest with each other. Explain to listen is equally as important to me. your feelings, reasons for your As a teenager, sometimes the rules that rules, explain why you are upset our parents set for us make no sense at or happy, always let your child the time. I mean, when you want to go know that you are doing what to the movies with your friends late you think is best so they can be after dark and your parents say no, it's the best that they can be.• I have always difficult to swallow your tongue to say though, this late teen time and agree, but it's so important to take is a bit more difficult to get

the time to calmly talk things over and listen to what your parents have to say on the matter. Chances are, they have a good reason for it too!

WeWZine: Carrie, what are some of the challenges of raising a young woman in today’s society?

themselves to unplug and look up at the world in front of them and enjoy what is here for us! Go hang out with friends, go for a bike ride or a run and just take a day off from our iPads, smartphones, and laptops.

"You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can come out of it." - Maya Angelou

Carrie: My biggest challenge is to prepare Brooklyn for life in general. Things like : how to be safe, look around you, how to do general everyday things, how to scramble eggs, •how to pump gas, don't use your cell phone around a gas pump, and when to use your debit card as visa to protect your purchases!!! I know they are crazy little things, but I had to learn that on my own and had someone given me little pearls of wisdom, that would have been so nice. And of course, the challenge of keeping a positive outlook on life.• Our world has so much negativity, we need to seek out positive things, and find ways that we can leave a positive mark on our community.

WeWZine: Brooklyn, what are some of the challenges of growing up in today’s society? What issues do you see your fellow students and/or friends dealing with?

Brooklyn: The biggest issue our generation fails to see is our dependency on electronics and social media (being guilty of this myself sometimes). I think teenagers need to remind

WeWZine: Brooklyn, what are your thoughts about the Young Ladies of Modesto group?

Do you think young girls should be involved in something like this?

I think this is a great opportunity for young women to meet like- minded girls, network for future careers, and learn from some great role models! I think all young girls should have the opportunity to participate in a group like this, it offers a great environment for young women to better themselves and build on what they learn at the meetings.

WeWZine: What is “beauty” to you?

What makes you feel “beautiful?”

Carrie: I used to model professionally in college and back then, I might have considered myself "beautiful" in the world where outer beauty was so important. But as I get older, age takes it's toll physically and emotional (wiser!),•the meaning has definitely changed for me.

Beauty to me is a confidence, a love for yourself.

Not in a vain way, but to know you were perfectly made just as you are.•And frankly•that is hard for me to feel that way sometimes, which I think is human.•To show kindness

and love is beauty to me: a good heart.

Don't get me wrong, I love a good hair day and a cute pair of heels!• I love to dress up•and look good!• I also feel beautiful after I finish a triathlon because I know I am stronger and healthier with each one.

Brooklyn: A woman of great self-confidence, kindness, and intelligence. Beauty shines from the inside out.

WeWZine: Carrie, how would you describe the “Whole Woman?”

It's faith,• physical, and emotional health, it's our communication and relationships, it's our successes and failures that we learn by, it encompasses everything yet•is different for each person.

We are all cupcakes really- we all need the basic same ingredients in our recipe• to work, but some of us have more sweetness, some have more substance, and some• like to be more savory/serious. And that's all ok!

But when we are happy with who we are and what we are and what we have accomplished.... that's the frosting.... sweet!

WeWZine: Carrie, so you have any parting advice for someone who would like to follow in your footsteps with parenting and communication?

Be honest, be•"there" for your kids, be encouraging and be•a bit goofy!• It's hard sometimes, but choose to find the positive, even if it's has to be a conscious effort at first. It will eventually become natural to look at the bright side.

WeWZine: Carrie, is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

To connect with Carrie : Carrie_lowery@hotmail.com

To connect with Brooklyn: brooklynalowery@gmail.com Instragram: @u_are_more

As a pro- confidence builder in our youth/teens, I would like to share my new venture "POSE".• I finally have a name for my "business".• I love to see young lives transformed to be more confident and self assured and to make it fun.•If anyone is interested in Modeling classes, please let me know.•As this is new for me, I am still working on site details but give me a Facebook message or Email for more info :)

MELISSA

BRUCE

SUCCESSFUL WOMEN OF MODESTO GROUP COUNCIL SECRETARY Who am I exactly? I’ve been a wife and mother for twenty years, successfully raising two out of three boys to manhood, and GOOD men at that!

Young men to be proud of. • The third one is on his way to adulthood.

I am a Psychic Medium and Astrologer, something that either captivates or scares the heck out of most people I come in contact with.

I run a successful business, using these abilities to help teach others how to believe in themselves and reach for the stars, as well as teaching others how to

do what I do. I’ve run this business for five years now, and in that time have helped several people to literally change their lives and their perceptions, and I have helped others to become successful individuals.

Being the ruler of your own world isn’t easy, but then again no one ever said it would be. Juggling my life can be difficult, but I love every minute of it! The excitement of moving from one challenge to another drives me to do better every time, and through Astrology and everything else I do, I can take what I’ve learned and help others do the I’m also a very active “Band Mom,” same. supporting my husband in his band, a band that broke up fifteen years ago and I’ve worked with and helped people all over the came back together again a few years world, and as I do I continue to grow myself. I back. • This is due in part to the very learn as I teach, and every day is a chance to supportive wives who begged, pleaded, learn something new, a chance to be reborn, and demanded, and finally asked the powers a chance to succeed in not just one thing, but in that be to intervene. And they did in EVERYTHING. absolutely AMAZING ways.

Member News!

We’re in the Community Together!

We are seeking Board Members!

We are volunteering together as a united group at the following events.

Want to get gussied up with us? •Go to the website and order your SWM t-shirt!

Are you one of those women in the community that loves to get involved and help other women? •Well here is your opportunity.

April 18th

Director, Fundraising Director, Member Events Director, Charter Development

May 16th

Committee Position: Coordinator, Youth Group

September 26th

Interested in participating?

Contact Angela Dennis Angela@SuccessfulWomenOfModesto.com

We are a Board of seven Directors and the rapid growth of our group has created opportunities for six positions.

Interested in applying?

Contact Kimberly Vaughan: Kimberly@SuccessfulWomenOfModesto.com

HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT! Modesto Women’s Expo is already donating $1 for every ticket sold to Successful Women of •Modesto, but hold onto your hat! •Kimberly Vaughan, event producer, is throwing down the gauntlet and donating pages in the event program for our members. For every Membership Received between now and May 31st, the member will have their personal photo in the Successful Women of Modesto Featured Members pages in the event program at the expo! •Thank you Kimberly!

FRACTAL DREAMS MAY BUSINESS OF THE MONTH “Start with your passion. When you figure out what your passion is, follow it with your whole heart.”

–Kimmer Sue

How did you choose your career and/or business?

I didn’t choose it, my career and business chose me.

Fractal: A rough or fragmented geometric shape that can be split into parts, each of which is a reduced-size copy of the whole.

I came to California to help my mother start and run her quick-print franchise. I learned the business by doing and came to love the design part of printing. Out of that business came a new habit… Computers.

Dream: Something of an unreal beauty, charm, or excellence.

I use fractal geometry in some of my art and most of what I create is beautiful!

I started my graphic design side-business to help defray the costs of my habit. About 8 years ago I realized that I was spending all of my free time, as well as all of my work time, playing with computer graphics. So it finally dawned on me… Maybe I AM an artist! (Never mind that my mother has always known I’m an artist. It took that epiphany to figure it out for myself.)

My side business became my fulltime business in 2011 and I have never looked back!

Tell us about your company.

Fractal Dreams, my company, was named after our first domain, www.fractaldreams.com, which was purchased so we would never have to change our email address again (20 years ago).

Here are the definitions of Fractal Dreams as they’re printed on the back of my business card:

Truly small businesses have been orphaned by the print industry, the people with the knowledge to create the marketing that makes a difference, because they are not perceived to have money. I’m here to fill that gap and help small businesses with their marketing.

I start with their design and guide them through their printing, signage, promotional items and websites. The goal being to get the biggest bang for their marketing buck!

What has contributed most to your success as a woman owned business?

My success in business is my understanding of relationships and willingness to go the extra mile for them. I used to think it was simply because I’m a woman, but have come to see that it’s because I actually put my relationships first, before the money.

The people that have come into my

life because of my business (I call them friends, some would call them clients) have real lives and real struggles. I am here to help them and to let them help me. You see, it’s that wonderful give and take of friendship that makes me successful.

If you could share one piece of advice to another woman starting a business, what would it be?

Start with your passion. When you figure out what your passion is, follow it with your whole heart.

When should someone give up their dream of being a business owner?

You should never give up your dream of being a business owner. You should, however, get help.

The amount of help available is downright staggering.

From my specialty of marketing and design, to accounting, legal help, business coaching, and even personal growth help, there are specialists that can help you with every aspect of your business and your life. Dreams are powerful things that can carry you far. Don’t let them die.

What do you do for fun/relaxation?

Fun and relaxation for me is really all about people and art and play. When

S U C C E S S F U L W O M E N O F C E N T R A L VA L L E Y A F F I L I AT E M E M B E R

How did you choose your career and/or business?

I didn’t choose it, my career and business chose me.

I came to California to help my mother start and run her quick-print franchise. I learned the business by doing and came to love the design part of printing. Out of that business came a new habit… Computers.

I started my graphic design side-business to help defray the costs of my habit. About 8 years ago I realized

that I was spending all of my free time, as well as all of my work time, playing with computer graphics. So it finally dawned on me… Maybe I AM an artist!

(Never mind that my mother has always known I’m an artist. It took that epiphany to figure it out for myself.)

My side business became my fulltime business in 2011 and I have never looked back!

Tell us about your company.

Fractal Dreams, my company, was named after our first domain, www.fractaldreams.com, which was purchased so we would never have to change our email address again (20 years ago).

Here are the definitions of Fractal Dreams as they’re printed on the back of my business card:

May Woman of the Month Shelley Schmidig Title(s): Mom, Student, Tax Professional, Accounting Clerk, & Entrepreneur

Q. What five tips would you share with the group?

One: Never give up! Even when you feel that things are never going to get better just keep thinking positive thoughts and keep on working towards your goal. Once your goal is accomplished NO ONE can take that away from you.

Two: Surround yourself with positive people! You don’t need negative people in you life to bring you down.

Schmidig earned her B.S. in accounting in 2013 and is now working on her Masters Degree.

“What the ‘whole woman’ means to me is a woman who is uplifting, encouraging, loving, caring, motivational, inspirational, and someone who dreams… if we don’t dream, we have nothing to live for and life would be a routine that is played out day in and day out.”

Three: Love yourself! Love yourself because even in the darkest of days you can bring a smile to yourself and it can turn your day around.

Love yourself and be happy with who you are and what you have accomplished in your life.

Shelley Schmidig’s day starts at 4:30am and doesn’t end until 10pm or later. But what do you expect from a single Mom who is raising her two young boys, working on her Master’s degree, leading Cub Scout activities and playing on a softball team? Schmidig is the epitome of a hard-working, successful woman who is determined to achieve her goals. And she is inspiring her fellow Successful Women of the Central Valley along the way.

Currently, Shelley’s “day job” is working as an accounting clerk and tax professional, and she enjoys the challenges the work brings on a daily basis. Shelley loves numbers, which is what lead her to pursue her Bachelor’s in Accounting at Modesto Junior College. When she started the journey to her degree in 2004, she was majoring in Ornamental Horticulture. But, as she explains, once she took the bookkeeping class at MJC in the Spring of 2008, she fell in love and from then on, she was hooked.

Four: Take care of yourself first! I know that is a hard concept to think of when raising a family, but take care of yourself first because if you don’t who is going to take care of your family?

You cant take care of Shelley Schmidig Recipient of Successful Women of your family with Central Valley Woman of the Month with her mother.

100% of your ability When Shelley isn’t doing homeif you are not 100% yourself. It is work for her Masters degree after OK for you to take YOU TIME!! her boys are tucked in for the night, Do it-you won’t regret it. she is playing softball with her cousin in Manteca at the Big Five: Keep Dreaming! Dream, beLeague Dreams. She also enjoys cause one day your dream can land reading, and spending time with her you amongst the stars! boys at their school and sports ac-

Q. What five tips would you share with the group?

One: Never give up!

Even when you feel that things are never going to get better just keep thinking positive thoughts and keep on working towards your goal.

Once your goal is accomplished NO ONE can take that away from you.

Two: Surround yourself with positive people! You don’t need negative people in you life to bring you down.

you are not 100% yourself. It is OK for you to take YOU TIME!! Do ityou won’t regret it.

Five: Keep Dreaming!

Dream, because one day your dream can land you amongst the stars!

Shelley Schmidig’s day starts at 4:30am and doesn’t end until 10pm or later. But what do you expect from a single Mom who is raising her two young boys, working on her Master’s degree, leading Cub Scout activities and playing on a softball team?

Schmidig is the epitome of a hard-

What the “whole woman” means to me is a woman who is uplifting, encouraging, loving, caring, motivational, inspirational, and someone who dreams.

A woman needs to be uplifting because we are here for one another. We need to be bound together and lift one another up when the other is down, someone to let them know that everything is going to be ok and that there is help out Shelley Schmidig’s children honoring Veterans over Three: Love your- Memorial Day weekend. there. We need to encourage one another and self! Love yourself not tear one another down. The whole woman because even in the darkest of days is loving and caring towards their family members you can bring a smile to yourself and and friends, and always has an open heart for them. it can turn your day around. Love The whole woman should be motivational and inspiyourself and be happy with who you rational because we as a woman can encourage are and what you have accomplished someone to do the same thing that we accomplished; in your life. we need to build each one up, not tear one another Four: Take care of yourself first! I apart. The whole woman needs to dream because if know that is a hard concept to think of we don’t we have nothing to live for and life would be when raising a family, but take care of a routine that is played out day in and day out. yourself first because if you don’t who is going to take care of your family? You cant take care of your family with 100% of your ability if

Submitted by Angela Dennis, Successful Women of Central Valley Creative Director and Photographer

You can connect with Shelley via Facebook, email at shellschmidig@gmail.com, texting/calling her, or through her Younique website where she enjoys helping women who are passionate about makeup. www.youniqueproducts.com/shelleyschmidig

Congratulations Ladies on reaching 1300+

YOU = 1300+

M ediumship Readings, Astrological Birth Charts, Classes and more! Book your personal session now at http://afaerymothersdream.webs.com/ . Join our FB group at facebook.com/groups/GreatfulFaeryWings for updates on classes and services!!! Don’t miss out on the Heavy M etal Psychic, Friday nights at 4pm Pacific / 7pm Eastern / M idnight UK!!! Like this page to see what’s coming up on the next show!!!!! https://www.facebook.com/HeavyM etalPsychic

Aries: Happy Birthday to all the Rams born in April!!!!! •The Sun and Mercury conjunct with Uranus at the beginning of the month, starting you off with a Grand Fire Trine that makes all eyes on you as you shine in your career and long term goals this month. •It’s the perfect kind of energy to kick start brand new projects, while making advancement in projects that have already begun. •The Moon comes into your sign on the 16th, joining Uranus’ Square with Pluto, which may make you feel as if reality is getting in the way of making time for your dreams, but their Trine with a now Direct Jupiter helps you see how much you owe it to yourself to go after your dreams, the one that mean the most to you more than anyone else. •Believe in yourself and see just how awesome Mar 21 - April 19

you really are, and don’t be afraid to go for the gold! Lucky Days: 10th – 12th

Taurus: Happy Birthday Taurus!!!!!!!!!! •And a very Happy Birthday to all the Bulls born in April!!!! •The Month begins and ends with the Moon in Virgo to create a much needed Grand Earth Trine, allowing you to build the foundation for what you want, prioritize the time, and gather the people you need to get you the support you deserve. •This placement is key to staying organized as Mars takes his place in your sign, bringing a certain fiery energy to your relationships and your career this month. •Be prepared to go where you never thought you could, or grow in ways you could never imagine. •The Moon comes into your sign the 18th through the 20th, moving into Conjunction with Mars and Mercury, giving you a much deeper reason to make the changes you want to make in your life, and their aspects with Neptune and Pluto help you make sure you’ve got the money and the time to make April 20 - May 20

these awesome things happen! •As the Sun moves into your sign on the 20th, it really is your time to shine!

Lucky Days: •12th – 14th

Gemini: Venus is coming to bring you some love this month, even showing you just how much love and support you have around you. •In a busy world, spending time with your biggest fans is truly the most awesome feeling, for these are the people that love you for you and not what you can do for them. •At the same time, Venus moves into T Square with Neptune and Saturn in the middle of the month, and this aspect is joined by the Moon when she comes into your sign the 20th through the 22nd, placing you in one of those difficult situations that make you feel as if you have to choose between one half of your heart or the other. •You can only choose what is best for you and everyone else, and know that those who are truly there to support you will still be there no matter what you decide.

May 21 - June 20

Lucky Days: •14th – 16th

Cancer: This month you may find situations popping up around you that mimic past hurts, providing you a chance to identify some past pain that needs to be released from inside of you. •This is very rarely any one person’s most favorite part of being a human being, but as deep feeling as we are, especially Cancers, it is essential in order to grow into the genuinely wonderful human beings we wish to become. •The situations, though uncomfortable, are gifts of keys to unlock those things we hold deep within ourselves, giving them a chance to come out, and you a chance to let them go forever. •You won’t believe the awesome feeling of freedom to come from this type of release. •It may be temporarily uncomfortable but it brings a lifetime of reward. Lucky Days: •16th – 18th June 21 - July 22

M ediumship Readings, Astrological Birth Charts, Classes and more! Book your personal session now at http://afaerymothersdream.webs.com/ . Join our FB group at facebook.com/groups/GreatfulFaeryWings for updates on classes and services!!! Don’t miss out on the Heavy M etal Psychic, Friday nights at 4pm Pacific / 7pm Eastern / M idnight UK!!! Like this page to see what’s coming up on the next show!!!!! https://www.facebook.com/HeavyM etalPsychic

Leo: Jupiter goes Direct on the 8th of this month, and it’s safe to say this feeling, like you’ve been pedaling backwards on a bicycle, is about to be over!!!! •Starting off the month with a Grand Fire Trine only makes this month more awesome, paving the way for you to focus your energy on achieving your goals and celebrate the completely awesome individual that is you! • The Moon comes into your sign on the 25th through the 27th in Conjunction with Jupiter, providing the support you need to move forward with your goals and dreams, but at the same time moving into position to make things difficult when it comes to the work place. •Ok, so everything can’t be perfect, but this is exactly why Leos were made. •No one can bring the peace better than you can! •With all this great mojo around you, it won’t be that difficult! Lucky Days: •18th – 20th

July 23 - August 22

Virgo: The Moon both begins and nearly ends the month in your sign, beginning and ending the month with a Grand Earth Trine, and for the very detailed Virgo, these are perfect opportunities to first get your priorities in order and then come back and make sure you’re progressing in the direction you want to be in. •But it’s also twice the T Square with Neptune and Saturn, providing a bit of a financial issue, but that’s nothing new. •In fact, it’s the same old thing right? •That’s where the Dark Moon comes in, dancing in and out of your sign all month long, giving you the opportunity to change the same old thing into something new and powerful, something that says I’m on my way right now! •Success means not making excuses, and accepting nothing less than awesome from yourself!

Lucky Days: •20th – 22nd August 23 - September 22

Libra: The Moon plays a key role this month starting off when she begins her time in your sign the 3rd through the 5th, moving into T Square with Pluto, Uranus, the Sun, and Mercury in what really seems to be a battle to do your thing and not have your precious time filled up with what everyone else wants!!!! •Jupiter does jump in to lend a helping hand, reminding you of these instances from before and helping to give you the strength to say enough is enough before your time is completely taken over! •Luckily, this is temporary, and the energy and time seems to open up around you, allowing you more time to do your thing. •The Moon comes back into your sign on the 30th, just in time to say good-bye to the end of the month. •Too early yet to be in any negative aspects at this time, she comes in to bring a perfect end to a mostly relaxing month, showing you just how easy it is to visualize the perfect balance between your home and what you’re known for, and balance like this is the most awesome tool you could have! Lucky Days: •22nd – 24th

September 23 - October 22

Scorpio: Your focus seems to move from those you love to home matters this month, and the Moon comes into your sign early on the 5th through the 7th with a helping hand for the challenge she brings. •In Opposition with Mars and Squared with Jupiter, it can definitely feel as if everything you’re going through is affecting your ability to shine when it comes to your work or career, and in some cases these stresses can be so heavy that it really does feel that you’re to blame for everything that’s going wrong in your life. •But there are two ways to look at that statement; in an emotionally “heavy” way that weighs you down and keeps you from moving, or in an emotionally “uplifting” way, understanding that you love yourself more than the stress. •It can be difficult to make the change, but it can be done, and it makes a huge difference in your life in general, a difference you could see in the outcomes of many of your goals as her Trine with Neptune points out. •Knowing that you have the power is the most awesome gift you can October 23 - November 21 give to yourself. Lucky Days: 24th – 26th

M ediumship Readings, Astrological Birth Charts, Classes and more! Book your personal session now at http://afaerymothersdream.webs.com/ . Join our FB group at facebook.com/groups/GreatfulFaeryWings for updates on classes and services!!! Don’t miss out on the Heavy M etal Psychic, Friday nights at 4pm Pacific / 7pm Eastern / M idnight UK!!! Like this page to see what’s coming up on the next show!!!!! https://www.facebook.com/HeavyM etalPsychic

Sagittarius: Beginning the month with a Grand Fire Trine is just what you need to remember who you are, and what the heck you came here to do! ••For the first week of the month as this aspect is at its peak, you’ll find ways to grow in your career or what you’re meant to do, with the loving support of those that love you. •Understanding the lessons from the past helps you to see your success, rather than the tough perception Saturn’s Square with Neptune brings. •The Moon coming into your sign on the 8th through the 10th moves into Conjunction with Saturn joining a Trine with Jupiter as the Grand Fire Trine begins to lose its fire, and an Opposition with Venus, seeming to interrupt your feeling of freedom and success with someone tugging your heart in a different direction. •The key to this difficulty is balance in all things, understanding that all aspects of your life have to move smoothly together in

November 22 - December 21

order to create this awesome well-oiled machine that you call a beautiful life. Lucky Days: •26th – 28th

Capricorn: •As the Sun and Mercury Conjunct with Uranus this month, they create a difficulty for you as they form a Squared position with Pluto, and you may find in the early parts of the month difficulties prioritizing your schedule around your career. •Whether it’s your actual work schedule, or life outside of your job, the beginning of the month sees difficulties and in some cases, miscommunications all around. •The Moon joining this aspect on the 10th through the 12th only makes this more emotionally draining for you, but their Trine with Mars helps you to counteract that negative energy with a driving force that you never thought you had, ready to overcome any obstacle with an “I’m done with this bologna, it’s time to move on from it!” attitude! •You always do, and you know it! •It’s one of the most awesome things about you! ••The month begins and ends with a Grand Earth Trine, two opportunities to get a December 22 - January 19 plan together and make what you want happen, but you have to be focused to it. •Grand Earth Trines are all about focus, planning, building, and making it happen! Lucky Days: 28th – 30th Aquarius: Building financial security and productive relationships is the key to success this month, as this is key to your overall success in the future. •Re-evaluating your relationships is never pleasant, but it doesn’t mean getting rid of people either. •Sometimes you need to see the relationship for what it is in order to initiate making the changes needed, and not worry about walking away for good until all other avenues have been tried. •Financial security runs oddly enough along the same lines; anything that you’ve done before that wasn’t successful won’t be successful again, you have to try something new, make changes, be proactive to get what you want. •The Moon coming into your sign the 12th through the 14th moves into T Square with Mars and Jupiter, placing you in a situation where you feel as if your relationships are compromising •your success, but it’s never others that get in our way, we do that January 20 - February 18 better than anyone else. •Being able to see what you can do to fix situations that aren’t working right in your life puts you in an awesome position, and allows you the independent freedom you’ve always dreamed of!

Lucky Days: •5th – 7th

Pisces: Your goals and dreams, and the money to make those dreams happen is the focus of this month, and Neptune’s Square with Saturn may make it seem as if your financial responsibilities reside outside of your dreams and more with those you’re responsible for. •And you wouldn’t trade them for the world of course! •But at the same time, the ability to do both comfortable would make things easier! •The Moon joining this aspect on the 14th

February 19 - March 20

through the 16th really gets you feeling frustrated and maybe even a bit resentful of not being able to have the funds you need, but at the same time their Grand Sextile with Mars and Pluto gives you boost of energy and a head full of great ideas, as time opens up and extra opportunities to generate that much needed income start to become available. •Nothing should stand in your way of the awesome dreams you have for yourself!

Lucky Days: •7th – 9th 26

AMANDA HILLSDALE SUCCESSFUL WOMEN OF MODESTO GROUP MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Amanda Hillsdale has had a successful career in the direct sales industry for the last 13 years earning several top sales performance awards.

“Speak in such a way that others love to listen to you. Listen is such a way that others love to speak to you.” This is the compassion - the light - we as women so desperately need in this world.

She strives to build a strong system of support within her community and business by helping others around her achieve the successes they desire.

That is why Amanda fully immerses herself in the development of the Successful Women of Modesto Group.

October 18, 2015 Noon - 5pm

To bring the focus back to the development of the whole woman, and the many hats we juggle. As well as to empower her daughters to reach for something more. •Amanda shares, “We grow each and every day, watching, supporting, and building as we go.”

$12

ANGELA DENNIS

SUCCESSFUL WOMEN OF MODESTO GROUP

COMMUNITY & PUBLIC

RELATIONS DIRECTOR Angela Kindley Dennis is a contributing writer and photographer for WeWZine and a member of the Successful Women of Modesto group.

Angela is originally from North Carolina, but as an Army wife of sixteen years, she has lived everywhere from Germany to Kansas. Angela looks forward to being an active part of the Modesto

community while she and her husband, Eric, are stationed in the area. She is very active in animal rescue and enjoys spending time with her pack of furbabies, all rescued from shelters across the country and all very spoiled.

Angela holds an M.A. in Management and Communications from Towson University, and has spent the last six

years working as a freelance photographer and marketing / communications specialist. She is the owner of Fringe Photography Studio and Creative Services, and enjoys all types of photography, from travel to events to family portraits.

WHAT IS IT? The Whole Woman Concept means every aspect of our lives are important and are inherently a part of who we are; in essence they are a part of our core self. •While we prioritize our efforts, all areas that we invest ourselves in are clearly areas of importance and no one area can define our success as a whole person.

If you are not in business does that mean you are not a successful person? •If you are not a mom does that make you a failure in family? •No! •That is just crazy talk!

We are not one-dimensional people. Success is not one-dimensional! •We need to celebrate our successes, applaud our efforts, empower one another to achieve our goals… all goals. •We also need to support each other when we are faced with challenges and coach each other with advice and care in every aspect of our lives. •We are all in this together!

The Whole Woman concept is more about us as multi-dimensional people intrinsically and has less to do with us externally; the concept is about making us who we are, not what we do.

Nurture and encompass the whole woman you are! •You are so much more than just your life status, your bank account balance, your family, your past, your future, your level of education, the last book you read, etc. •We are not measured solely by any one area of our lives.

Let’s embrace ourselves as whole women!

Let’s refuse to make connections based on external offerings, but instead really look at the whole woman when getting to know your sisters! •By learning more about each other and building core connections we embrace ourselves and shine. •Every aspect of our multidimensional lives will improve ten-fold with the support and empowerment of each other.

Don’t you believe that to be true? •••Do you believe in every man (or woman) for themselves, or do you believe in the betterment of women as a whole?

The Whole Woman Concept takes that thinking to the next level of a life journey. •Together.

TODAY, WE HAVE MORE THAN 1100 MEMBERS, MAKING OUR MEMBERS 1100 + STRONG!

You = 1100+ 28