Letter from Sharon & Bobby
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s the holidays are fast approaching, Bobby and I are starting to stress about how to accomplish everything that needs to be done and what will all of this cost. The children have a gift list a mile long, the family is calling about what will be on the Christmas menu and whose house will we all gather at, and how will we keep the children grounded to understand the holidays should be about helping someone else and not what they are receiving. As I reminisce with my two sisters, we started talking about how fun Christmas was when we were growing up. We would get the Sears and Roebuck Wish Book and would spend hours and days circling toys, tearing out pages, and would make a list of all the dolls, bikes, and games we wanted. The holidays were about traditions such as working with our parents at our local church serving food and making food baskets for the less fortunate and spending hours rehearsing our parts for the Nativity Play and Musical. Once Christmas morning came, we would run to the living room to see what Santa had brought us.
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As our children are now 19, 14, & 13, you have to pry them out of bed at noon instead of 6 a.m. because they have given you a list and pictures of what they wanted or somehow tricked us into receiving their gifts before the actual day. I long for the days when they were younger‌ This year we have vowed to turn our holidays back to memorable traditions and I challenge you to do the same. In this issue you read about one woman who gave up medicine to live out her dreams. You will learn how to organize your closet, make a delicious West African meal, decorate your fire mantle for next to nothing and shop for gifts on a budget. Enjoy your friends and family this season, love on them and remember how grateful you are to have them with you as this year comes to a close. Happy Holidays from CEO! Bobby & Sharon Oliver Founders & Publishers CEO INC. Magazine
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Letter from Sharon & Bobby You are the CEO Meet Team CEO CEO Hears You Women Who Do It All Circle (home) CEO Dish My Girlfriend’s Closet Parenting 101 Behind the Scenes CEO Spotlight CEO’s Money Confessions of a CEO CEO Help Desk CEOs on the Rise CEOs on the Rise cont. / Dear Young Women Dear Stupid Red Lips Jump Start the Life I Need Me Time Hair Talk Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall Before and After I Do Find the Balance in Relationships Soiree You Love and Life CEO Community CEO Around Town / 360 Live Advertise with CEO Real Science, Real Results
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MAGAZINE
Supporting Women Who Do It All EVERY WOMAN IS A CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CEO Magazine defines a CEO woman as an individual who is in charge of her life, both personally and professionally. She embraces life’s challenges and inspires others to be their best and live their best. A CEO woman is a mother, aunt, sister, a professional, business owner, a volunteer, and more.
OUR MISSION Our mission is to inspire women of all ages. Our desire is to empower women to live their best life with no reservations or regrets. We will encourage women to celebrate and embrace their inner beauty and look beyond their flaws, past hurts, and rejections. We will challenge our readers to become the best version of their self
OUR COMMITMENT We are committed to providing engaging and meaningful content that connects the lives of real women. We are passionate about helping women achieve their dreams through the power of sharing. We believe that every woman is a CEO “Chief Executive Officer of her Life,” and we are the voice of women.
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Meet the CEO Team Founders/ Publishers
Creative Project Manager
Sharon & Bobby Oliver
Sarah Mandoudis
sharon@ceosofrva.com
sarah@ceosofrva.com
Creative Designer monique@ceosofrva.com
Editorial Team
Editorial Team
Editorial Team
Diane Williams
Chaya Braxton
Ashley Hewlett
Editor-At-Large diane@ceosofrva.com
Content Editor chaya@ceosofrva.com
Copy Editor ashley@ceosofrva.com
Design
Monique Stokes
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Aarion Jones
Amber Berry
Natalie Tyler
Manager of Promotions aarion@ceosofrva.com
Promotions Assistant amber@ceosofrva.com
Promotions Assistant natalie@ceosofrva.com
Communications
Philnina M. Braden
Media
Sales
Business Development Manager Philnina@ceosofrva.com
Jadien Jones
Paul Hawkins
Photo Director jadien@ceosofrva.com
Advertising Consultant paul@ceosofrva.com
Sales
Lisa Hawkins Advertising Consultant lisa@ceosofrva.com
Questions and Feedback: 1518 Willow Lawn Dr. Suite 300 Richmond, VA 23230 Phone: (804) 277-4409 Email: info@ceosofrva.com www.ceosofrva.com
Front cover photo (left to right):
Front cover photo credit:
Harriet Roberson Heather Kirk Dunning Victoria Torres Sarah Mandoudis
Platinum Photography by Lorenzo
Front cover design: Monique Stokes
Front cover: Set designed by Danny Smith (owner of Nirvana Hair Salon)
Jewelry by Charis Jones of Sassy Jones Boutique
Hair and makeup: Sheila Hobson Keisha Mines Nirvana Hair Salon
CEO Magazine is published by CEO Magazine, LLC. For information on reprints and e-prints, please contact CEO Magazine Corporate Office at 804.277.4409 or email your request to info@ceosofrva.com. All correspondence should be addressed to: 1518 Willow Lawn Dr., Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23230. The CEO Magazine trademark and logo are owned in the United States and in the rest of the world by CEO Magazine, LLC. CEO Magazine is available free at Martin’s supermarkets and various locations in the Metropolitan Richmond area. For a complete list of CEO Magazine’s distribution locations, visit ceosofrva.com.
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YOU ARE THE CEO
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CEO hears you CEO Launches Its First Issue
“The photos in your magazine are so gorge and the stories are so real. I can’t wait to read the next issue.” Catarina Engel, 27 Mechanicsville
Congrats
“Congratulations to CEO Magazine on launching their first publication. I am really looking forward to the February issue. Please have someone write about “How to Keep Him.” I could use that advice! Wheww!” Not Ashamed of Saying I am Single, 43 Hanover County, Virginia
Pretty in Pink: P Fi Stories of Survival & Five T Triumph
“ was really touched by your “I ‘Pretty in Pink’ story. I lost one of ‘P my closest friends to Triple Negam tive Breast Cancer earlier this year. ti The survivors from your story T display such strength. This really d comforts me. Thank you for celec brating Breast Cancer Awareness b Month.” M Very Encouraged, 28 Richmond, VA
A Culinary-Genesis Mind, Soul and Food
“ CEO. Please let Chef Gordon know that I tried the Welcome Table’s “Hi recipe: r Honey Glazed Carrots. My husband and I had a dinner party for my H co-workers. c The T veggies were a big hit! I can’t wait until December’s issue to see if there are any more recipes I can whip up for the holidays.” t Luna Aggey, 39 North Chesterfield, VA
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Business
WOMEN WHO DO IT ALL Debbie Miller Sunshine Events by Debbie www.sunshineeventsbydebbie.com 804-513-2345 Certified Wedding & Event Planner
Angela Harris – Realtor /Remax 804-521-5603 RealtywithAngela@gmail.com
Dr. Wakeshi Benson – WB Orthodontics, PLLC www.wb-orthodontics.com 804-454-1888 Care@wb-orthodontics.com
Amanda McCollum – Model at Push Modeling Agency www.yourpush.com
Jennifer Trimmer Contact information (804) 437-4519
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Sisters By Design Photography Specializing in Wedding Events and Portrait Photography Email: SistersByDesignPhotography@gmail.com
Jessica Mitchell Contact information (804) 244-0453
CEO Home
By: Theresa Dorlini
CEO Magazine – Holiday Décor Website: http://www.circledesignstudio.com About: CIRCLE Design Studio is a full-service commercial and residential interior design firm run by Theresa Dorlini, CID, ASID. Theresa is an NCIDQ, Virginia and Maryland State Certified Interior Designer and a busy mother of 3 children, ages 6 years and under.
Modern Metallic Gone are the days of matching metals. To give your home an updated, modern look for the holidays, try mixing metallics. Golds, bronzes, and silvertones combined into one color palette add depth, sparkle and shine to any room.
Classic Elegance You can’t go wrong with classic! Play up your traditional mouldings and trimwork with some bold pops of holiday green, silver and red. A symmetrical layout also helps accentuate traditional architectural elements.
Comfy Cozy Who doesn’t like to snuggle up by a warm and cozy fire? Try layering different textures and re-purposing pieces to give your space the casual and comfortable feeling of home.
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CEO Dish Kele Wele
and Goat Kabobs for You: International CEO Shares Her Favorite Ghanaian Cuisine for the Holidays “Flavor is everything. If it does not have flavor, it is not Ghanaian,” explained Amma Gatty. “White rice is not rice; it has to have onions, meat and maybe even a little curry for color.” Members of the CEO team were invited to sample Mrs. Gatty’s favorite holiday dish – goat kabobs. Beautiful Ghana native Amma Gatty has been cooking since she was 7. She is the former owner of Kele Wele Restaurant, a West African restaurant previously located on Mechanicsville Turnpikein eastern Henrico. Since closing Kelewele, Amma has opened a private home daycare center and runs her family security firm that employs over 105 Ghanaians. Between her frequent trips to Ghana and responsibilities stateside, Amma still finds time to host her friends at home with the help of her husband, Fred Gatty.
When Amma opened the door, we could identify each of the spices that permeated the air. She led us to the kitchen where we were presented a colorful and inviting platter of Ghanaian cuisine. There was Joloff “one pot” rice, a popular tomato based dish that traditionally includes the meat of your choice: pork, chicken, beef or smoked fish. There was also kelewele, a spicy plantain snack dish, which is sold by street vendors in her home country. Mrs. Gatty’s culinary claim, however, is her goat kabobs. The chunks of goat meat are marinated days before they are boiled.The essence usually includes a mixture of garlic, ginger, ground cloves and suya powder (ground peanuts and red pepper flakes).Goat usually has a wild taste, so you need to make sure it is seasoned well. Most people grill them, but
Amma’s Holiday Goat Kabobs Makes: 8 Skewers, 1 skewer = 1 serving Active Time: 25 Minutes Total Time: 1 Hour INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons of Adobo seasoning/ all purpose seasoning 4 bell peppers (all colors) cut into inch-size squares 2 tablespoons of butter Cloves (ground) 1 Garlic 1 lb of goat cubed (You can substitute for any kind of meat.) Ginger root (peeled) 1 Onion A Pinch of salt Soya powder (dry rub, found in African shops)-optional Water Wooden skewers
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PREPARATION Blend ginger,onion, garlic, cloves and adobo seasoning in a blender. Pour mixture onto meat. Add enough water to ensure the meat is completely covered with the marinade. Add salt to taste. Cook in a covered pot until meat is very tender. Drain. Cut bells peppers and onions into about inch-size squares. In a large frying pan/wok, stir fry meat with peppers and onions with butter until veggies are slightly tender. Pour contents of frying pan into a tray to cool. Once warm, arrange peppers, onions and meat on skewers. Sprinkle some suya powder on each skewer(optional). Enjoy!
I boil and then fry them to make them tender,” explained Gatty. The skewers of meat, peppers and onions are then pan-seared or fried until they turn dark brown. There was nothing wild about Amma’s skewers. Instead, the spices from the meat conquered our palates coordinate by coordinate, invading any preconceived notion that we may have had about its gamey taste. After sampling Amma’s kabobs, we surrendered to a different perspective. First, it was savory and then it became tangy before it brought some heat. We wished they were for sale so we wouldn’t feel bad about asking for more! If you would like to try Amma’s goat kabobs for yourself, she has shared her delicious recipe. Story by Chaya Braxton
My Girlfriend’s Closet Anytime one season ends, a new one will begin and typically that means it’s time to go shopping!!!! I love to shop especially during the holidays. Most importantly I love to save money! When it comes to looking good this season, don’t forget to do your wardrobe inventory. Remember, your closet is your “personal boutique” and like any other boutique, it is important that it is organized and easy to shop. For suggestions, please read my earlier blog posts, “Are You Closet Ready?” & “The Process-Getting Organized.”
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ssuming that you have already rotated or organized your closet, the following is a stepby-step plan to help make room for your new clothes, shoes and other goodies:
Step 1: Go through each piece in your closet. (I
Step 4: Check out your favorite stores for any sales
like to put outfits together in my head.)
that might be going on before you go shopping.
Step 2: After doing an inventory of your closet, ask your-
Step 5: Once you have returned home with the
self if you have all the essential pieces to create different looks throughout the season. Pull together at least three different looks using one of the key pieces in your wardrobe, then you’re good to go! For example, a pullover sweater, basic long sleeve tee, button down blouse, or black dress pants.
goods, reassess your closet with your brand new pieces to make sure colors and fabrics go together. If you don’t do it now, you might regret it later and miss out on the opportunity to return it to the store. Ok, now who is ready to get their shop on this holiday?
Step 3: Whatever you think you are missing, make Anna Fountain, is a Personal Stylist and Owner of sure you write it down…think grocery list so you can stay focused! Identify the key pieces you want to make the foundation for your outfits, take a picture, and refer to them when shopping.
The Gokabean Blog. She lives in Richmond, VA with her husband and two children. Read her blog: http://gokabean.com/
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Parenting 101
Friends of CEO
CEO is proud to announce the birth of the newest member of the Reynold’s family: Joshua Jr., born October 22, 2014. Jasmine is the wife to Joshua Sr. and mother of Jada (7 years) and Joshua Jr. (3 weeks). She works full-time as a specialty pharmacy technician. Jasmine gives some words of wisdom to mothers as her family of three increases to a family of four. “When embracing a new baby into the household, it is imperative that you recruit all members of the household to be a part of the team, which includes all siblings,” Jasmine explains. The most important lesson Jasmine has learned about having a new baby is to take it one day at a time, depend on your team members, and remember not to panic or stress out. Just enjoy the experience… Congratulations Jasmine – from the CEO family. Story by Diane Williams
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Achieve Nirvana… N estled on the edge of Richmond’s eclectic Carytown, you will find Nirvana Hair Salon. The Paul Mitchell signature oasis was created to be a broker of all things beauty, providing innovative techniques for cutting, coloring, styling and more. Nirvana offers a unique blend of style, modernity and industry expertise for its customers.
doors or call in to schedule an appointment, you are greeted by a diverse team of stylists whose primary goal is to create a relaxing environment for each client. You can sip on a cup of coffee while you wait on a plush sofa or retreat to a private suite for one of Nirvana’s exclusive services. At Nirvana, you have no choice but to leave looking and feeling brilliant.
When founder and owner Danny Smith opened Nirvana, he wanted to create an ethos of bliss where people could be transformed and escape from the repetitive cycle of ordinary. Clients are immersed in a professional setting where they are taught how to maintain healthy hair and the latest beauty trends. Whether you walk through the
“As stylists, we are ground shakers and day makers, setting fashion-forward trends while fostering a special connection between our clients. We’re offering a place where people can love and feel good about themselves. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?” Danny Smith, Owner
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BEHIND the Scenes: CEO’s Holiday Photo Shoot o behind the scenes with CEO for our holiday photo shoot. The picture was gorge. Stylist and Owner of Nirvana Salon in Carytown added his personal touch. The foyer was transformed into an elegant landscape of festive color and light. Meanwhile, we had the opportunity to chat with four ladies in the break room as they waited to be captured by Lorenzo of Platinum Photography for the cover of the December issue. We talked about lessons they learned during 2014, hopes for the New Year as well their favorite holiday traditions. Life Coach, Heather Dunning, believes this year was the year of the rocket. “People were either at the front or back of it hanging on for dear life. Because of this, we have been under pressure to evolve.” And Heather has. After 14 years of resisting what she calls the “intensity of the internet,” Heather decided to launch her first business website. She attributes this decision to joining CEO as a Brand Ambassador. When Heather was approached about the opportunity, she realized that she had less than three weeks to create a web link. “CEO made me do it,” she laughs. In fact, you can find Heather Dunning online right now – just google her.
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Harri Harriet iett Ro Robe Roberson’s bers rson on’’s aadvice dvic dv icee is ic is bold. She offered that in order for us to be better, we often times need to decide which friends and/or family members get left behind. Harriet also shared that she has made a commitment to get back into the gym (she’s already flawless) but makes it clear that her famous creamy turkey dressing will continue to hold its permanent place on the table each year. We tried to get Mrs. Roberson’s recipe – but the PR & Marketing Expert would not spill the tea. (No worries, we will work on our invite for next year.) Sarah Mandudis is open to change. With huge vintage curls and a face beat for life, the Greek beauty marveled at how she would possibly maintain her new Nirvana look. Despite her overwhelming aesthetic, Sarah’s story was thoughtful and real. “When you think you have your life planned out, there are always changes to remind you that you don’t have it all figured out.” Early November, Sarah had one week to move to another place. In the meantime, she landed a job as CEO’s new Project Manager and says that she is finally beginning to follow her dreams of providing creative direction for the magazine.
Thee ve Th very ery ry p poised oise oi ise sed d Vi V Victoria ict ctor toria oorria ia T Torres orre or rees was up next and was joined by her sister who is visiting from Uruguay. Torres moved to Richmond 13 years ago from South America. Not long after, Torres started working for Sun Trust Bank and keeps a part time job at Marshalls because she loves fashion and clothes; it doesn’t hurt she gets a discount on clothes. Victoria’s reflection was poignant and nothing short of heartfelt. “No matter what happens in your life, no matter how bad it looks, keep on trying. You have to keep your head up and keep pushing. I don’t wait for bad things to happen.“ Despite her mother being ill, Victoria remains positive. When the interviews were over, the ladies went back to the set. Charis of Sassy Jones Boutique provided vibrant variations of bling from her private jewelry collection. CEO staff were on deck to support throughout the evening. By the end of the photo shoot, these ladies were more than just pretty face glam. They were people who had a background. More importantly, they were people who had a story. Remember, behind every CEO, therein lies a story. Happy Holidays from us to you! Story by Chaya Braxton
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CEO SPOTLIGHT
Vicki Coward
Meet Pastor Vicki Coward. She is a wife, mom, entrepreneur and spiritual mentor. Pastor Vicki co-pastors Agape International in Henrico County, VA along with her husband, Pastor Clifton Coward. Pastor Vicki is the Executive Director of Kingdom Kidz Child Development Center and the founder of two women’s ministries designed to help women uncover their hidden beauty and talents. Through her Girl Talk sessions, Vicki Coward uses a practical, matter-of-fact approach to teach women how to live a life of integrity and success. And this is how Pastor Vicki is in real life. During a recent conversation, the stylish, down to earth Pastor speaks candidly about family, new ventures and her eye for design. What is one piece of advice that you would like to offer as 2014 comes to an end? I would say to let nothing keep you from pursuing your dreams. Keep yourself from distractions. This is the first year that I stepped outside of ministry to get into business. I am excited about pursuing things I always wanted to do. What is your next endeavor, Pastor Vicki? I am producing a play in the early part of 2015. The play is called No Pain No Gain. It is about four women who grew up in church and ventured off to pursue school and their careers. I also started a business called The Creative Things I Do. Basically I can make things that are ordinary or that no one wants and make them into something beautiful. It does not take much for something to be excellent. Eventually I want to open a shop – a boutique. Please describe your favorite creation? I love glitter and glam. I have this jean jacket that is “rhinestoned out.” Everybody loves it. People started asking me about how I make the clothes that I wear. I mean, I can take a simple handbag and make it beautiful with rhinestones and different appliques. This is how I developed the concept of my design business. Is there anything special that you are doing to prepare for the holidays? I LOVE to shop. I like to find things that have themes, so I will be looking for holiday themed gifts. You should see my trees and decorations for the holidays. People are starting to call me around this time; I go to different houses to decorate. It’s a little business of mine. How do you find balance between ministry, business and home life? Wow. I probably need to read something to help me find out how to do that. I have a 16 year old son who is very active. I have the church ministry and my personal ministry. This is real. Being a wife – a pastor’s wife – and mother is real. It is really something. I go away to find balance. This weekend I am going to a conference to be strengthened. In all honesty, I leave and find time to get away to be refreshed. That is how I am able to come back and help others. What do you and your family do in your down time? My family and I come together and laugh and crack jokes and have dinner. We like to eat. When we do this, we do NOT talk about church. This past summer we went to Florida. We are trying to decide now where to go next year. Is there anything else that you would like to share? Yes, I would like to promote Sharon’s magazine, CEO. This magazine is life-changing because she is trying to reach all women. I am very, very proud of her! Story by: Chaya Braxton
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CEO’S Money
Get the Most for Your Coin: A Plan to Save on Holiday Gifts As a working professional, entrepreneur, wife and mother of two little girls, I have to find the most efficient way to do everything. The same goes for Christmas shopping. By efficient I don’t mean easy or quick, necessarily. For me, efficient is finding a way to get the most bang for my buck and my time. I like to find ways to maximize each moment by combining priorities and/or multitasking. At an early age, my mother taught me to make affordable gifts by hand and with love. As a child, my favorite gifts to make were Mr. and Mrs. Claus sets made out of 2-liter bottles of a person’s favorite soda decorated with felt and cotton balls. Now, as a mother, I have continued the tradition with my daughters by sewing scarves, decorating frames, and making pen holders from recycled cans. Here are a few quick tips for making your Christmas gift giving efficient, affordable, and fun. Janiel Youngblood
Establish your budget: Don’t think of budget as a negative “b” word. Think of a budget as freedom to spend – just within the guardrails. This allows you to be flexible but keeps you safe from overspending if you stay within your limits. Overall, establishing a budget will help you avoid spending money designated for other purposes. Make your gift list: Consider your Christmas card list versus the gift list. Don’t create your gift list based on guilt; instead, base it on those with whom you share a special connection. Assign a budget to your gift list: While each recipient may not receive the same portion of the budget, a list of
all your recipients allows you to analyze how your funds will be allocated. And remember, you are giving a gift, not paying a debt. Be creative: If it’s a handcrafted item that you choose to make, repeat the previous steps considering time as another resource to be budgeted. Look for items around the house that could be repurposed for crafting. Check your progress: Do a status check at some point to see if you’re on track. Make adjustments as needed. It’s important to remember that you cannot manage what you do not measure. Plan ahead for next year: I remember my mother telling me, “Preparation is not lost time!” The earlier you can start planning the better off you’ll be. Consider starting a separate savings for Christmas early in the year. By starting early, you have more time to contribute to your budget goal. Waiting until the last minute can cause you to go into debt and the season that is supposed to be jolly becomes stressful. Also, planning ahead allows you to take advantage of discounts and sales throughout the year. ceosofrva.com
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Confessions of a CEO Reflecting on the days of punching the clock and watching the hours pass by…. Losing my joy to a “job” that shows no signs of taking me higher….
How much more can I take? How much more money do I need to make? Then it happens – you walk out of the door and never look back! Exhaling with relief followed by an immediate “Holy Bleeep!” By the time you attempt to explain the what, the where and the why of what just took place, you are knee deep in trying to figure out your next move: What now? Where do I start? How do I do it all and not crash or fail? Be your own boss – I did. There are so many benefits to owning a business and being your own boss. The obvious difference between working for someone else and operating a business that is yours is quite similar to the difference between renting and owning your own home. Yes, you know what I’m talking about. When you are a homeowner, you make your own rules, pick your own paint, and even plant your own food. You may be thinking, “Ah, how easy it is to call the landlord when the A/C breaks in the middle of July, or when a pipe bursts, I don’t have to worry about how it will get fixed.” But more and more people simply get up and find a way to get it done. Don’t be afraid of the symbolic broken A/C or pipes. When you own your business, you often have to take a leap of faith. Thank goodness for those who ventured out and followed their hearts. Even the big names started small with an idea in their heads before they answered their call. How exciting the next few months will be as we search the city looking for other women who found the courage to enter our world as a CEO and share the lessons they’ve learned and the challenges and burdens they have had to bear. I hope you will continue to journey with me and uncover the hidden confessions of our local CEOs and learn tips and tricks on how to follow your dreams, get a business up and running, and jump over hurdles that may be in your way. “If you can dream it, you can do it.” – Walt Disney
By Heather Dunning
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CEO Help Desk
Question: Do I have to audit my employees’ personnel files?
Y
es, it is necessary to audit your employees’ personnel files to ensure that every employee has signed all necessary policies and procedures. This action also guarantees that the file does not contain information that could hurt your business. For example, you interviewed a total of five candidates and decided on your final candidate. A year later, the employee files a race discrimination claim against your company. You receive a notice to produce a copy of the employee’s personnel file. As you are making a copy of the file, you notice that one of the panel interviewers made descriptive notes about the looks of each candidate as a means to remember each candidate. As the owner of the business, you realize that this document could hurt your defense. A rule of thumb is that any sticky notes, interviewer notes or other documentation that could be considered biased or taken out of context should never be placed in a personnel file. It is also standard HR practice to place medical documents (i.e., FMLA forms or return to work notices) and I9 Employment Eligibility Verification Forms in a separate file or folder. When organizing personnel files, HR Professionals recommend that you develop a standard checklist of documents that should be included in every personnel file such as the employee’s resume, job offer letter, and employee contract. Please send your HR questions to helpdesk@ceosofrva.com. Submissions chosen for publication may be edited for length and clarity. All submissions become the property of CEO Magazine, LLC and may be published, along with the name of the individual, in any and all CEO Magazines and its’ affiliate companies-branded media now known or hereafter developed. By Diane Williams
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CEO BUSINESS/CEOS ON THE RISE
Dear Parents,
There are some things that you think you know, but you really have overlooked. Starting a business is hard and stressful on us, just like it is on you. We understand that you are working so hard to make sure we have everything we need and want, but as crazy as this might sound – we want more than just material things. We want your time, support, undivided attention and affection no matter how old we are. We know that it can be hard for you to give us these valuable things due to your busy career, but what else is your busy schedule making you miss? As a young woman growing and developing in a society that is full of technology, we know some things that you don’t. We do some things that you wouldn’t have even thought about doing at our age. If your daughter has ever lied to you about who she was with or where she was, please don’t get too upset with her. Instead, find out why she’s doing the things she’s doing. Come up with ways to spend more time with her, so that you two can have that important mother-daughter bond that some CEOs and entrepreneurs are missing with their daughters. Usually, by the time mothers find out that their daughters have been lying to them – it’s too late. As teenagers, we are ultimately going to do what we want, when we want. What separates your daughter g ffrom other teenage g ggirls is whether or not she can be
comfortable coming to you about issues. Don’t rush the process; it’ll come with time. One night I left my mom heartbroken in eighth grade when she found out I was dating a senior in high school. I had no intention of having sex, and I didn’t. More importantly, I didn’t have any intentions on breaking my mom’s heart due to my actions, even though I did. Your daughter might be doing the same thing that I was doing —trying to fill the void of feeling alone, while slowly breaking your heart without even knowing it. She always said the old cliché, “Whatever is done in the dark will come to the light,” but I always knew she would be too busy with her businesses. I never thought twice that my mom would notice me lying and going behind her back. Now that I’m in college, I understand how dangerous my actions were. At the end of the day, my mom was worried about my safety, even when I thought she only worried about her businesses. Looking back over my life, every female friend whose mom was a CEO or a business owner did the same thing. Don’t feel guilty, embarrassed, or ashamed. Instead, use this as an opportunity to repair your relationship with your daughter, no matter how hard it may be. Moms, remember, we wouldn’t be where we are today without you. Don’t ever forget that the same unconditional love that you have for us, we have for you too. With love, Sarah
mani Hayyes is my name, and along with it comes a personality to match how harddworking, sophisticated, and focused I am. Being the youngest of thhree, I was spoiled, but I was also taught I had to work for the things I wantedd. This lesson has definitely helped me get to where I am today. Throughout higgh school, I was pretty well known and made sure that I carried myself in a possitive light at all times. I was captain of my cheer team, involved in several clubss and was even president of my senior class. Currently, I am a freshman at Old Dominion University majoring in Psychology and miinoring in Mass Communications. My journey will begin with earning my bachelor’s degree from ODU, followed by my masters at an undeciided school, and eventually earning a PhD. My dream career is a cliniccal psychologist which will allow me the opportunity to counsel indiividuals with mental disorders. My minor in Mass Communicationns will hopefully open doors to be on television or radio. Now thatt I am a contributing writer to a magazine, I hope that I can inspire girlss not only in my community, but around the world, and let them knoow that anything you put your mind to is possible. With continuuous dedication and determination, all goals can be achieved. Evvery day I live by the motto: “If you look good, you feel good,” soo with that being said, look good, feel good, and you’ll do good. Much Love, Emani Hayes
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Dear Young Women, Have you ever felt like your mom is always busy with her business or with the company she runs? How many car rides do you sit in silence because she’s on an important call? Has your mom ever missed something that was really important to you and blamed it on the business or her job? I’ve sat through far too many silent car rides, and countless times I’ve waited for her to show up to my volleyball games, but she never came. Don’t get me wrong, I love my mother to death, and I know she would do whatever she could for me, but sometimes as young women, we feel alone in these situations. You’re probably going through a similar situation as mine, but trust me – you’re not alone. I am here for you, and if you sit your mom down one day and tell her how you feel, I’m sure she’ll be there for you too. As young women, it’s hard to see past the lack of time, attention, and affection that we’re not receiving. As a result, we sometimes turn to others who can fill that void. Sometimes it can be a significant other, and other times it can be another adult such as a neighbor or teacher. A downside is that we don’t always look at all of the possible consequences that could come from our actions like our mom would. When you ask to go over your close friend’s house and your mother says yes, you need to understand that she is saying yes because she trusts you, not because she doesn’t care about where you are. Yes, it’s true that she may not double check what you’re telling her because she is so busy, but what if something happens to you while you’re there? Who would know?
Young women in college know that even when you are on your own, you still tell people where you are or where you’re going. I have a close group of five girls. They all have each other’s numbers and are updated about what’s going on in my life on a weekly basis. If I am going on a date with someone, I’ll send my friends my date’s name, number, address, and a picture. My friends and I even have a tracker on our phones. It allows us to watch each other walk home, and it also allows us to check and make sure everyone is safe. No one is being nosey and all in someone else’s business, but it’s a safety precaution. Each To some, I am known as Sarah Monroe, but to most I am known for being a of us has every parent’s numbers too in case anything serious happens. leader, a hard worker, and someone who is very dedicated to her future career. In
high school, I worked full time, was the captain of my volleyball team, and was enrolled in a specialty center that opened the door for many opportunities in the communications field. I decided to continue my education at Old Dominion University where I am currently a sophomore majoring in Human Services with a minor in Psychology. I am currently a member of the intramural volleyball team, and I am also involved in other clubs on campus. Aside from these extracurricular activities, I really enjoy giving back to my community, especially to younger girls. I love setting a good example for them, and I plan to continue this for the rest of my life. My longtime goal is to become an occupational therapist, and I plan to achieve my goal by attending grad school at Virginia Commonwealth University once I graduate from ODU. Being around very successful people who have shared their experience and expertise with me has inspired me to share what I know with other young women. Being apart of CEO Magazine is a pleasure of mine, and I look forward to uplifting and inspiring others every chance I can. Every morning I quote Lailah Akita who says, “Believe that you are capable of achieving your dreams.” If you believe it, you can do it. With Love, Sarah Monroe
When you are living in your mothers’ house, you should tell her where you are going and be honest about it. There’s a lot going on in the society that we live in; and no matter how busy our moms are, they still love and care about us. If you don’t feel like you’re ready to talk to your mom about your situation, let her read this article or try to find someone you are comfortable talking to. Also, feel free to connect with me on my social media sites and by email if you’d rather talk to me about whatever is bothering you. I am here for you. I know that at the end of the day, we really just want our moms to understand that sometimes we feel neglected while they are starting their business or running one. Our feelings are very important and a healthy relationship with our moms is vital to our future success. After all, we are CEOs on the Rise, and we look up to them on a daily basis. The last thing we want to do is hurt them or put ourselves in danger.
With Love, Sarah
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1. Follow us on: @ceosontherise 2. Connect with us for Campus Talk! 22 ceosofrva.com
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Dear Stupid.Me Tell us your “Dear Stupid” moment by emailing us at dearstupidme@ ceosofrva.com. We promise not to use your real name! Submissions chosen for publication may be edited for length and clarity. All submissions become the property of CEO Magazine, LLC and may be published, along with the name of the individual, in any and all CEO Magazines and its affiliate companies-branded media now known or hereafter developed.
“Meet Mrs. Corrine” our advice expert
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Dear Stupid Me... Ring Ring Richmond, VA
MRS. CORRINE RESPONSE: Wait a minute, wait a minute! Who in the world still got an answering machine! You are a trip annnnnd the luggage, well you live and you learn – Mrs. Corrine ceosofrva.com
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Get The Look: Rockin’ Red Lips! By Charlene T. Easter, Makeup Artist and favorite finish –matte,satin, glossor stain. Sohave no fear. I am here to provide a few tips for selecting and applying the perfect red for you to rock this holiday season.
With the holiday season upon us, thereis no better time to get glammed up with your favorite makeup products and limited edition collections. I am especially excited about the variety of reds offered by one of my favorite brands for lipstick, MAC Cosmetics. In addition, the recently released“Kinky Boots� Collection, offersa sensual, matte Kinky Red Lipstick,MAC offers many other great reds to include Living Legend, Relentlessly Red, Ladybug, MAC Red and Ruby Woo. If you think you can’t wear a red lip, I beg to differ – there is a perfect red for everyone. There are many options based on your skin tone
HOW TO APPLY RED LIPSTICK Okay ladies, in general we want to focus on one fabulous feature at a time so let’s keep all other makeup “cleanâ€? or simple – groomed brows, neutral-toned eye color, eye liner, a few coats of mascara and a natural colored blush will do. Since red lips garner a lot of attention, we need to ensure your lips are properly prepared, so let’s get to it‌ 1. Gently exfoliate lips with a damp toothbrush or washcloth 2. Apply the lip balm of your choice such as Aquaphor or Burt’s Bees Lip Balmto damp lips 3. Blot excess balm, then apply a red/berry colored lip liner to carefully line your top and bottom lip
4. Fill your entire lip with the pencil to anchor your lipstick and help it to last longer through the day 5. Use a lip brush to precisely apply lipstick beginning at the lip line and then fill entire lip with color 6. After applying the first coat, use a tissue (one-ply) to blot excess color from the lip 7. Apply a second layer of lip color with a lip brush for longwearing color 8. Confidently Rock Your Red Lips! Made a mistake? No worries – simply take a concealer brush or pointed cotton swab with a little concealer to carefully trace around your lips and remove any smudges. I hope these tips will help you find and apply the perfect red for you. I would love to see your Rockin’ Red Lips, so please share your photos on social media with @EpiphanyBeauty and @CEOSofRVA using #RockinRedLips – smooches!
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CEO MIND/BODY/SOUL-BODY BOSS
Jump Start Your Healthy Life By Brenda Harding o you work out at least 3 days a week? Do you sit down and eat with your family or do you eat on the run? Do you try and eat healthy or do you grab the first thing you see? If you answered “no� to any of these questions, you are not unlike a lot of people around you. We live such busy lifestyles. As we work outside of the home, work inside of our home, take care of our loved ones and run errands, when do we take care of ourselves?
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Getting started is easy. First, find your motivation. What moves you to feel better about yourself? Once you discover this, you will be able to incorporate the plan you devise into your schedule. Once your plan is in place, begin setting goals that you want to achieve. Always make sure that any goal(s) you set for yourself are attainable with a reasonable time frame. Choose 1-2 goals to focus on for a few weeks at a time. This will allow you to establish good habits in your everyday life before you make any more changes. Positive changes in our lifestyles do not happen overnight and will take time to achieve. When we jump into an important lifestyle change, we must remember to start slow and stay focused. This will help us stay on track. However, if you get side tracked, it is not a reason to give up. Instead, this is a reason to make a fresh start and get back on track. To help achieve your goals, try to commit to an exercise routine for at least 1 hour, 3 days a week and eat healthier by incorporating foods high in protein, nutrients, and fiber. Lastly, finding a fitness facility where you feel comfortable exercising is an important component in maintaining a regular exercise routine. Do your research, visit the facility a few times before making any decisions, and make sure the facility offers you what you need. Brickhouse Cardio Club is a fitness facility that offers group exercise and is focused on women, but it is not solely for women. Brickhouse Cardio Club is a national franchise that prides itself on the ability to provide a warm, fun, friendly, and family-type atmosphere where its members feel just as comfortable walking in as they do when they walk out. Visit Brickhouse Cardio Club at www.brickhousecardio. com to find our many locations nationwide. Feel free to visit our Mechanicsville location at 7142 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville VA 23111. We welcome new members and will always greet you.
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CEO MIND/BODY/SOUL- / ME TIME
I Need Me Time Simplify holiday gift giving. Instead of searching for the perfect gift, choose a theme, such as books or kitchen supplies, and buy similar presents for everyone on your list. *
TOTATI DUCID MOLENT, EATUR, IUR, TOTAERUM * Holiday tip taken from “365 Ways to Relax: Mind QUAMENDEBIS NOBITAE PELES ABORUMQ UAMEBody, and Soul” by Barbara L. Heller, published TUR REM FUGITIA PELENIATEMED MAGNIHI CITATI by Storey Publishing. APIET VERI BERIT RE NOS SAT EST MA
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CEO Mind/Body/Soul – Hair Talk
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e all know that the winter months are approaching fast with harsh winds, dry air, and frigid temperatures that can really wreak havoc on our hair. Therefore it is important to protect your natural hair from the unforgiving elements of the winter season. Here are 3 natural hair regimens that will help keep your natural hair healthy during the cold weather months.
Regimen 1: Hydrate We tend to forget that the scalp, just like the skin on the rest of our body, benefits from hydration. The dry air of winter months takes away the moisture from your scalp, causing flaking, itching, and even damaging your hair follicles. Drinking more water during these cold months will help keep your skin and scalp hydrated.
Regimen 2: Moisturize During winter, when shampooing your hair, first use a deep cleaning shampoo, then a hydrating shampoo followed by a deep moisturizing conditioner. Leave the deep moisturizing conditioner on for 10-15 minutes while sitting under the dryer, and then rinse with cool water to close cuticles. Remember when
applying conditioner, concentrate on the ends, the oldest part of the hair. After the deep conditioning treatment, apply an extra virgin coconut or olive oil to add extra moisture and shine.
Regimen 3: Trim, Trim, Trim I can’t say enough about trimming your hair. It is just as important as moisturizing treatments. Unhealthy ends need to be cut off to keep your hair healthy during the winter months. If you get blowouts, braids, or any other protective style, your hair should be trimmed at least every 6-8 weeks. Some people can go longer, but here is a test I use to determine whether a trim is needed: If you comb your hair down and you can see the color of your shirt peeking out through the ends of your hair, then it is time for a trim! These are just a few tips that will help your hair survive the grueling temperatures of winter. However, don’t think these are things you only need to do during the winter. Follow these tips to ensure that you maintain beautiful and healthy hair all year long. Keisha Mines of Nirvana Hair Salon
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Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, What’s the Purpose of it All? his is an age old question. Numerous articles have been written in search of an answer. D Disney has even taken a stab aatt it with the beloved tale of S Snow n White.
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This is an age old question. N Numerous articles have been wr written in search of an answer. Disn Disney has even taken a stab at it with the beloved tale of Snow White. Every day Snow White’s wicked stepmother would stand in front of her mirror and ask: “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” The Queen’s heart’s desire was to be the prettiest in the land – it was her only purpose. Meanwhile, Miss Snow was off frolicking in the forest, cleaning up after the dwarfs. Ironically, the story ends with a sweet kiss that awakens Snow White to fulfill her purpose by reclaiming her father’s throne and ruling the kingdom with a pure heart and desire to serve others. Whether our purpose in this life is to serve others or serve ourselves, the yearning to find our calling remains the same. Divinely guided purpose means aspiring to be the truest and purest reflection of our higher selves. Some days fulfilling this purpose is easy peasy; other days – not so much! As you reflect on 2014 and get ready for the New Year, ask yourself: How do I live a purpose driven life? In which ways do I listen to my heart and follow the wisdom of my spirit? This is the first entry in a series of reflections that I am looking forward to sharing with you. During the months ahead, we will explore how we can discover our calling and take the steps to maintain the most balanced and purposeful living. Have a happy holiday! Love & Light, Heather Heather Kirk Dunning is a mom, wife, holistic therapist and life coach expert for CEO Magazine. 28 ceosofrva.com
by Heather Dunning
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CEO RELATIONSHIP- BEFORE AND AFTER I DO Step 1. Determine Your Budget – Wedding photography, including prints and fees, can make up anywhere between 11-15% of your wedding budget. Determining a budget will help you narrow your choices while picking a photographer suitable to your style… and bank account. Step 2. Choose a Professional – When searching for a photographer, make sure you’re choosing a professional and not an amateur. It’s important to ask for recommendations from friends, bridal shops, and/or wedding planners.
Wedding images are an important keepsake passed down through generations. They commemorate the time you invested in planning one of the most important days of your life. Here are a few steps to help you with the photography process.
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Step 3. Confirm and Finalize a Contract – Although you have verbally spoken with a photographer, signing a contract will give you some assurance. It’s important that you put in writing and confirm the important details of your wedding: date(s), venue(s) and times. Once you finalize your contract, it should be revised 3-6 months prior to your wedding date, and then revisited 1-3 weeks to finalize the arrangements. Remember, on your wedding day, the wedding cake will be gone and the guests will disappear; however, the images captured by your photographer will last a lifetime. By Jadien R. Jones
Finding a Balance between Entrepreneurship and your Relationship One of the toughest challenges of being an entrepreneur is balancing your personal life. When starting a business, we often focus a large amount of our time and energy in making our businesses successful. The long hours away from home can definitely affect our personal lives. Finding the right balance is key.
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he first and most important task is building “downtime” into your hectic schedule. This includes dedicating personal time for relaxation, social gatherings or quality time with friends and family. As your business grows, you will develop a schedule, and in that schedule you must block off a set time for your significant other. The second important task is communication. Effectively talking to your significant other and establishing clear expectations can help your relationship. One of the main reasons couples break up is lack of communication. Each person in the relationship needs to share his or her feelings, fears, frustrations, hopes, etc. Communicating your expectations of one another is key for your relationship’s development and longevity. The third important key to balancing your life is showing appreciation to your significant other. Entrepreneurs are successful when they have a supportive partner behind them. It’s important that you show this appreciation by devoting an appropriate amount of attention to your loved one. Imagine the amount of time you invest in your business without a second thought? Don’t forget our spouses need for us to invest in them too. Turn off work-related devices – phone and e-mail – and give your significant other your undivided attention. Show your spouse that you appreciate his or her time and patience in the relationship. By J.R. Jones ceosofrva.com
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SOIREE YOU
Tips for Party Planning – CEO Style By Tracey Harvey abulous & friendly – channeling these moods when planning your holiday party will ensure success. Here are five simple but effective tips to ensure your soiree is a hit. Be unforgettable. Warmly invite your guests with elegant letterpress or foil-stamped invitations. No time for custom invitations, don’t fret. Paperlesspost.com offers fab digital and paper invites. At your event, add a wow factor with unique décor elements such as tea lights, DIY metallic gold or silver tree branch centerpieces, and candle lanterns. Add sophistication by passing hors d’oeuvres prior to dinner. Guests will love your attention to detail. Keep calm & make a list. It will be a joy to see your ideas come to life. Write out the menu, decor ideas (create a holiday entertaining board on Pinterest), music playlist and schedule of events (cocktails, gift exchange, entertainment).
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Wine & dine. Debut a signature cocktail featuring peppermint or egg nog. Offer either wine or cocktails but don’t feel pressure to serve a full bar. Create a portable bar using a trendy rolling drink cart (check out potterybarn.com) to transport drinks from the dining room to the dance floor. Entertain your guests and encourage them to get to know one another. Ask
everyone to introduce themselves at the beginning of dinner to break the ice. Entrepreneurs will silently thank you for the networking opportunity. Take it up a notch by asking the best vocalist to serenade guests with a classic song. You’re flawless. Wake up to a spotless home the week leading up to your event. Shop your favorite consignment shop for sterling silver platters or use winter white porcelain serving trays for stylish presentation. Post- it notes are perfect to plan where to place your dishes (and Aunt Esther’s famous fruit cake). Photo courtesy of lushome.com Tracey Harvey is the Chief Creative Officer at the TCT Design Firm, a family owned luxury event services and goods company in Richmond, VA. Follow @ tctdesignfirm on Instagram & Pinterest to learn how TCT can help you celebrate with beauty & style.
LOVE & LIFE The Importance of Forgiveness in Your Marriage By Harriet Roberson Dear Harriet: I have been through so much in my marriage that I feel as though I am in the movie, Sex, Lies and Videotape. I have so much resentment and bitterness that I don’t know if I will survive all of this, more or less save my marriage. Please Help! Anonymous Detroit, MI Dear Anonymous, I understand your frustration. Being able to forgive and let go of past hurts is a critical tool for any successful marriage. More importantly, being able to forgive is a way to stay healthy – emotionally and physically. When you hold on to old hurts, disappointments, betrayals, insensitivity, and anger, you are wasting both time and energy. Holding on to hurt, known or perceived, will eventually turn into hate and extreme bitterness. Lack of forgiveness can wear you down and is not good for your physical or mental well being.
Ways to Forgive • Be open and make a choice to forgive your spouse. • Accept that you may never know the reason for the transgression. • Think of a calming place or do something to distract yourself when images of the betrayal or hurt flash in your mind. • Don’t throw an error or mistake back in your spouse’s face at a later date. • Don’t use it as ammunition in an argument. • Don’t seek revenge or retribution. It will only extend the pain. • Remember that forgiveness doesn’t mean you condone the hurtful behavior. • Be patient with yourself. • Don’t try to hurry the process. Being able to forgive your spouse takes time. • Seek professional counseling if you continue to feel you cannot forgive or you find yourself dwelling on the betray-
al or hurt. Talking with a professional may help you let go and forgive.
How to Ask for Forgiveness • Show true contrition and remorse for the pain that you’ve caused. • Be willing to make a commitment not to hurt your spouse again by repeating the hurtful behavior. • Accept the consequences of the action that created the hurt. • Be patient with your spouse. Forgiving someone takes time. Don’t dismiss your spouse’s feelings of betrayal by telling your spouse to “get over it.” • Be open to making amends. No relationship, especially a marriage, can be sustained over a long period of time without forgiveness. Even though you may find it difficult to forgive, being able to forgive is crucial. However, if your spouse abuses you, continues to betray you and continues to lie to you, forgiveness for these hurts may take longer and that is okay. My advice is to seek outside professional marriage counseling to assist you in deciding what the future holds for your marriage. Everyone makes mistakes. Many people say things they do not mean. Everyone needs to forgive and to be forgiven. Being forgiven in your marriage and in life is not for the other person but for YOU…whether you stay married or not. Remember, when you forgive, you free yourself. God Bless you and we are praying for you. WWW.HARRIETROBERSON.COM Harriet is an author, life coach, motivational speaker, and a TV host and radio personality. Harriet and her husband of 33 years, Anthony, are certified marriage workshop facilitators. They speak at marriage workshops and conferences throughout the country. Please send your marriage and general relationship questions, comments and inspiring marriage stories to Harriet Roberson at harriet@ceosrva,com. You may also visit her website at www.Harrietroberson.com.
A Real Man Covers His Woman By Enrique Pascal A real man covers his woman. A real man is the same as a blanket who covers his woman from the cold. Joseph concealed Mary’s pregnancy in order to protect her from a severe blizzard. The world can be a very cold and cruel place at times. You need to embody warmth. You must always cover your woman instead of exposing her to harm. This task has nothing to do with her feelings or her actions. Instead, it is totally based on your willingness to be a just and upright man. While you are protecting your woman, you are fulfilling your duty as her covering. Defending and protecting his woman is what a real man does. A real man is an umbrella who keeps his woman from the rain. The storm will come at some point; however, you have to be the buffer between your woman and the thunder (issues.) Reflect on Joseph. It was a sign of security for him to walk alongside Mary through the downpour of accusations he experienced from his community. Your commitment to march solo during the rainfall expresses your love for her. You can’t just be any umbrella; you must be a sturdy umbrella. A real man is the same as a tree who shelters his woman from the intense heat. You must give refuge to your woman from the extreme warmth of life (drama.) There is nothing like the shade of a tree on a hot, sunny day. Your woman may encounter severe temperatures, and yet if you are like a tree, she is safeguarded from the intense heat. A real man sets the temperature in his relationship due to the stability he displays. Again, I am not saying your lady will not be exposed to life’s tests and trials. However, when you symbolize a tree, your presence relaxes her. You will be like a cool breeze in the midst of the drama. Tranquility is what a real man looks like and gives to his woman. Enrique is a husband, dad, motivational speaker and relationship expert. He is also the host of Transformation Radio and is known as “Mr. Time Out.” He can be contacted for speaking engagements. Website: www.enriquepascal.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/arealmanlooklike Twitter: www.twitter.com/enrique_pascal Host of Transformation Radio: www.blogtalkradio.com/ enriquepascal
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CEO COMMUNITY by: Chaya Braxton
Mother Teresa’s Prayer for Dr. Simi Comes True
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t has been over 18 years ago since Mother Teresa sent her street orphans to Dr. Simi Massey for medical care in Calcutta, India. Massey, a young Indian woman, was raised in a family of doctors and attended one of the most prestigious medical colleges in India where 60 individuals were selected from thousands of applicants. “I remember meeting her,” said Dr. Massey as she reminisced on meeting the international humanitarian. “She laid hands on me and prayed, saying: “May you never forget the poor and needy.” Mother Theresa’s compassion inspired Dr. Massey to start her own non-profit. Ten years ago Dr. Simi Massey launched an organization called Mission of Hope International (MHI) in Richmond VA, with a branch office in New Delhi. The work in India is headed by Dr. Surendranath and a team of healthcare professionals who provide healthcare to four villages with a population of around 16,000 per village. MHI has also conducted mission trips to the Philippines. MHI’s partnership with the healthcare organization, Pro-Link based in Ghana, has been groundbreaking. “Last year we took a team there. We set up a medical camp for a village where there was a lot of human sex trafficking. We were able to help so many women in that village; it was amazing.” Dr. Massey’s dream is to build a medical and mental health
facility to continue helping individuals around the world. Dr. Massey is so passionate about her work oversees but also at home in Richmond. Last year Dr. Massey launched the Compassion Center located in north Chesterfield. The center distributes baby supplies, food, grocery and gas gift cards and also serves dinners to families during the holidays. Dr. Massey is most proud of the diaper bank which has given diapers to over several families since June 2013. “There are so many stories of how people were helped by our center,” relayed Dr. Massey. A grandmother
called me because her daughter was about to give birth in jail, and she had nothing for her baby.” Dr Massey told her to send someone to get a diaper basket. “Eventually the unborn baby’s father showed up to get the donation for his family. In the midst of talking, he broke down and shared that his child would not live [due to illness]. So I began praying with him. It turned out that the baby lived. That family was encouraged. If I could help that one family, it was worth it.” Dr. Massey also began the Chesterfield Fresh Start Single Mother’s Group that mentors, teaches and supports single moms as they go through a self-improvement program. Additionally, they throw baby showers for moms with limited resources. In less than 12 months, Mission of Hope International has received awards including Allen & Allen’s Hometown Heroes and President Obama’s Volunteer Service Award. Recently Mission of Hope International received 5 acres of land as a gift, and Dr. Massey hopes to build a huge compassion center on this land. Mission of Hope International accepts all donations including cash, gift and gas cards, and diapers. You may contact Dr. Simi Massey directly to learn how you can get involved. Dr. Simi Massey Mission of Hope International P.O. Box 74752 North Chesterfield, VA 23236 www.missionofhopeintl.org 804. 247. 4448
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