Mature Woman Magazine April Issue

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 1

Letter From The Founder

T

he hardest challenges as a business woman are gaining respect from other businesses. Since May 2011, my business partner and I stepped out on faith to create a publication that “caters to women from all walks of life.” Within the last year, Mature Woman Now has grown significantly in regards to our readers and contributors support. However, building a new business in this type of business has certainly been trying. One thing I understand is, nothing ever comes easy. We will connect some paths that will be difficult. The forks in the roads will make it difficult to determine which path to take. The people we cross paths will not always be for us. But, with the grace of God, he will lead our way. We are Mature Woman Now, and we will rise and walk on the right path. It is our goal and determination to be a partner of encouragement to women.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

T

he most difficult thing for me to grasp as a business is the lack of support within the business community. Now don’t get me wrong Mature Woman Now could have never made it so far without the help of objective individuals. However, I continue to press on and look at the gifts I have received on this journey. The opportunity to meet and work with people I would have never crossed paths with. One of the most valuable lessons I have learned in business is not to be motivated by money, but by the love I have for what I am trying to achieve. And my love and friendship will continue to be directed towards catering to women from all walks of life.

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 2

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 3

APRIL 2012 ISSUE

CONTENTS CONTRIBUTOR WRITERS Ardessia De Vaughn Ashley Dabney Charlotte Jefferson Huggins

...CATEGORIES...

Linda Allred Mariah Higginbotham Kiwan Fitch

BETTER U

Dale Karen Edwards

Conrad Fitness 31

Simone Higginbotham

Spring into Spring Salad 33

Marecia L. Murphy Mary Bellanger

Living without Limits 6

ASK THE MAN 9

Seasons For Life 12

Girls Night Out 8

I Am Not My Hair 26

The Girl You Want To Live Next Door 11

March of Dimes: Saving One Baby At A Time 28 Roasted Corn & Chicken Tostada 7

Nicole E. Jones CEO/ Marketing Director

WOMAN II WOMAN

The Power Of Ten Dollars 15

Boudoir Sessions 22 Confessions of a Welfare Mom 36

Simone O. Higginbotham CEO Elissa Boudreaux Publicist Pamela Vessell Media Relations

AMBITION

Nicole E. Jones Creative Director/Editor

FIRST LADY COOPER 25

LIFESTYLES

Brandon Atkins—Graphic Designer

Kiwan Fitch 30

Royality Designs 10

Brandon Jones– Creative Designer

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

Planning For Your Financial Growth 38

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 4

IS WHAT YOU SEE WHAT YOU GET? WHO IS THE WOMAN BEHIND CHANNEL 9’S DONNA BRITT?

By Dale Karen Edwards After her heartwarming speech at the Woman’s Council meeting, I invited Donna to my home for scones and tea to see for myself: who was this woman with the magnetic presence? I found a woman who has chosen a very public career yet chooses authentically, to “be herself.”

The scones and tea were still being served when Donna immediately gave credit to many mentors and people who adopted her as a young broadcaster. A New York agent/talent coach advised her to follow in the steps of one of her favorite news anchors: Walter Cronkite. She chose to borrow from Cronkite the fact that he was never patronizing or melodramatic. She believes that the meaning of words have their own power and don’t need to be painted with her voice. As Channel 9’s news anchor at 6p.m. and 10 p.m., she is happy to present stoMATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

ries prepared by the entire news team, altering scripts to fit her style of speaking and writing her own “teases” and “kickers.”

In Donna’s own words, “I never censor myself or other people.

I try to be who I am on the news, and to be consistent with who I am as a person.” She is much more than a product the Channel 9 promotes for their ends—a person who genuinely cares. You know that when you meet her or see her singing with perfect pitch in front of the College Drive Walmart, raising money for the Salvation Army. (By the way, her donations increase 4 times when she sings.

As a young girl Donna played piano for her father’s church. She went to college and was on track to perform professionally. Donna had almost completed her music degree, majoring in oboe, at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg when a disturbing experience of sexual harassment caused her to transfer abruptly to LSU’s school of music. Mississippi’s loss…Louisiana’s gain…She took a job at WYNK as a DJ to earn a little money while attending school. Carlton Cremeens heard her voice on WYNK and was impressed. He asked her to interview at channel 9 for a weekend weather position. He wanted her to leave WYNK on the spot but was impressed by her professional refusal to leave without two weeks notice and after only two weeks on the job. He convinced her to work both jobs, which she did –juggling 2 professions, school, and choreographing for LSU’s flag corps. This lasted for six months. Another act of providence at this time was meeting Mark Ballard—the love of her life—whom she married six

months after going to Channel 9 full time.

She and Mark have two children: 21year-old Annie and 11-year- old Lou. She loves her career, and loves to travel, whether it’s for work or play.

She has traveled with her family to the Soviet Union, Spain, Mexico, and France as well as Quebec, Sweden, Japan, France and London. She made the most interesting and enigmatic comment about journeying to other countries. “You visit your childhood when you travel,”—I think particularly referring to the primal communication methods in use when you don’t know another’s language. She had no favorite spot in the world. “I loved every place we’ve been.”

By the way—how does she keep that youthful figure? Perhaps gardening or cleaning her own house but more likely by “ keeping up with an 11-year -old son!”

I asked Donna if she had any regrets. She said, “none.” Though she did seek counseling about 7 years into her TV career. Her early life had been spent training and performing as a musician, and after plunging into TV she realized no one thought of her as a musician anymore. In Louisiana news she covers a state filled with music. “It’s also filled with interesting people and adventure.”

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 5

BETTER U

Living without Limits We are already four months into the year. I have not kept one resolution that made on December 31st. At this point, the old me would say “why bother”, but along the way I have made some changes in the way, I live and observe my way of living. I use to hear a voice in my head say that you are not worthy of love or achieving extraordinary things. For example, I use to think that I would never have my own business, be in a healthy relationship or being successful raising a child on my own. Those are just three examples of what I have gone to achieved in the less than ten years. I want all people, not just of the female persuasion to know that you can live life’s hurdles and fulfill your destiny. It goes back to what I first said to myself coming down in the elevator after my divorce hearing. I repeated to myself over and over you must not let yourself to continue to make a decision that transform your heart’s journey in a negative manner, but to make the decisions that will allow you to live without Limits. That time was ten years ago. I have been nothing, but successful in this journey called life. And in case you are wondering I am back on track with my resolutions. When I fall off the horse, I just jump back on and hold on tighter.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 6

Roasted Corn and Chicken Tostada

BETTER U

PREP TIME 20 minutes

YIELD 1 serving Ingredients 1 (7-inch) whole wheat flour tortilla or flour tortilla Nonstick cooking spray 1/3 cup frozen whole kernel corn 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 4 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size piec1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 cup salsa 1/4 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained 1 cup shredded lettuce 2 tablespoons shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon fat-free sour cream Directions

LOW CARB RECEIPE

     es      

1. Lightly coat both sides of tortilla with cooking spray. Place on baking sheet. Bake at 400° F about 10 minutes or until crisp.

2. Meanwhile, in small nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray cook corn over medium-high heat for 1 to 3 minutes or until beginning to brown, stirring frequently. Remove from skillet. Set aside.

3. In same small skillet heat oil. Add chicken, chili powder and cumin. Cook and stir over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes or until

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 7

G i r l f r i e n d

WOMAN II WOMAN

By Ardessia Groze De Vaughn

Let me tell you ‘bout ‘Girls’ Night Out.’ Every Wednesday a lot of us check out to a club for a casual social gathering. Another friend of ours owns the club, and we like most of the people who patronage it. The music is fantastic, and the DJ is a friend of ours too and plays just what we want to hear. Drinks are half price, and many buy beer by the bucket. Our friend gives out a late night entertainment, usually shrimp, crawfish, crab, corn and potatoes. Girlfriend, you must realize that we are in Louisiana, and that kind of food is essential to our well-being. It is just not healthy for our cholesterol. We have fun laughing and talking, then the picture changes. The waitress comes over and places a drink in front of me. I don’t see any more drinks on the tray, so I ask where this drink came from. She points to the smiling man who is waving his hand at me. I politely ask the waitress to return the drink explaining to the man that there are three other ladies at the table with me who are also drinking. Girlfriend, now to show you how stupid he was, instead of sending three more drinks, he comes over to the table. I thought he was coming to apologize and to inquire what the other ladies are drinking. Girlfriend let me tell you, he asked me, “Where do you work?” He didn’t ask my name, if I came here often or did I live nearby. I told him that if I answered that question, he would have to pay me $100.00. That ended that conversation. What happened to old-fashioned courting? Don’t men know how to approach ladies anymore? I looked around the club. There were remarkably few men wearing a casual shirt, slacks and leather shoes. Most were dressed in tee-shirts, athletic wear and/or athletic shoes. Many of the men had caps or hats on their heads. There was even a man on the dance floor with a cigarette in his hand. Girlfriend let me tell you, no way is I going dancing with someone with a cigarette or drink in their hand. This is a motorcycle club hangout also, but they are professional men such as lawyers, doctors and businessmen. Right now, they are dressed in leather vest, jeans, logo tee shirts with bandanas tied on their heads. Most of them are already married or attached to someone. I’ll see them in their office later this week. Girlfriend, this is what you can expect from Girls’ Night Out. We have been meeting like this for a few years. So, don’t expect to meet an eligible man on Girls’ Night Out. Girlfriend, they won’t see me for a while anyway. “Survivor,” one of my favorite television programs is on every Wednesday night.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 8

Ask the Man,

WOMAN II WOMAN

I hope that you can help me in making a decision I should have made months ago. Well I guess I should start at the beginning. My boyfriend is cheating on me with other women.

And I guess you ask how I know this. To answer your question, he has the numbers of different women in his phone that I have never met or heard of. Secondly he keeps his phone on silent or vibrates all the time. When he is gone he never answers. He just disappears on some weekends. He is the kind of man if I confront him about all of this he will threaten to break up with me.

And I am afraid of being alone. I need some sound advice.

Desperate in New Orleans

D

esperate in New Orleans I am going to do this short and sweet. WAKE -UP!!! No one man or women should continue to be in a relationship where they feel there is an issue of infidelity. And you are afraid that he will break up with you if you question him. Now you and I both know that he uses that to keep you from questioning him about the numbers and his whereabouts when he is MIA. Lady get some guts and stand up for yourself. Ask questions and if he doesn’t want to be with you, then you have your answer. No one should have to share the person they are in a relationship.

My final piece of help to you Desperate in New Orleans stop being desperate and take charge of the situation at hand.

WHO IS ASK THE MAN? He is a career oriented married man who enjoys family. He has a young son and reside in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Ask the man, is a respectable mature man who believes in respecting, loving and caring for a woman from an emotional and physical perspective. Women if you need a male’s point of view on your relationships, contact Jusasktheman@gmail.com.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 9

M

LIFESTYLES

s. Davis is the owner of Royality Designs Consultants & Royality Designs Travel Agency. She has been a business owner since 1998. Royality Designs Enterprises has been in business since 2002.

Royality Designs Consultants is a multifaceted company with programs and services that will IMPROVE and GROW your personal or business needs. For services that are not able to be rendered, they have partnered businesses to contract with.

Royality Designs Consultants are experienced, highly qualified, and discreet professionals, with excellent references and a broad range of project training. They work with all business owners: home-based businesses to corporations. Their current clientele varies from doctor offices, mobile spa, non-profit organizations and Chamber of Commerce to name a few.

Royality Designs Travel Agency is a FULL SERVICE traditional travel agency with over six (6) years’ experience. They work with you from the sheer first call to the completion of planning with high quality customer service. They can assist with destination weddings, get-a ways, cruises, tours, honeymoons, retreats, events and much more.

For additional questions please contact Royality Designs Consultants: Info@msd2u.com / www.msd2u.com or Travel Agency: info@royaltravelagent.com / www.royaltravelagent.com

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 10

THE GIRL YOU WANT TO LIVE NEXT DOOR………….

By: Dale Karen Edwards The energy was electric at the general membership meeting this past Thursday March 8 as Lieutenant Stacey Barrett from the Louisiana State troopers shared safety tips with us. Bringing a 22-year wealth of experience as an officer and trainer, Ms. Barrett was in her favorite role as an educator. She explained that a demonstration of safety tactics was not possible in 15 minutes, but you could feel the excitement of members as she gave us a foundation of key principles of self-protection. She explained that MOST crimes against persons are not personally targeted by crimes of opportunity. She warns us that the most valuable weapon to have is AWARENESS of our surroundings.

She cautioned us about being on our cell phones when we are alone because our distraction creates the exact opportunity criminals looks for. If, we have that tickly feeling or sense anything different we need to proceed with utmost caution. She gave us suggestions to keep our home safe and warned us to keep our doors locked and not to open the door for unexpected visitors. She sagely offered us the wisdom that guns are not to scare off intruders because of we are not prepared to shoot to

WHAT’S UP

kill the weapon will likely be used against us. She stated the most powerful thing we can do when in danger is to create distance and make noise. She assured us that calling 911 first (not family or friends) is always

preferable and that the police would rather answer a false alarm then be called too late to help. Lt. Barrett was not given to hyperbole and clearly knew what she was sharing from her vast experience. Members stayed after with questions and pretty unanimously were excited at the prospect of her teaching a class or two during woman’s week. We all offer many thanks to an outstanding officer and fine trainer for taking the time to give us a solid foundation for further training in self-defense. Don’t

s !! s ladie e t o n e

you wish she was your next-door neighbor?

Tak         



Criminals do what they do for various reasons, including: gang initiation, robbery, drugs and opportunity.

To reduce the chance of being a victim of a crime of opportunity, women should be mental and physically prepared SAFE at all times.

TY TI P Women should mentally prepare by being aware of their surroundings, especially when in public, at night andSin desolate areas. They should develop a plan by playing the "what if" game". For example, what would they do if Someone grabbed them as they were walking to their car in a dark parking lot.

Don't be distracted when walking to their vehicles, home, office, etc by talking on the cell phone. Pay attention to t heir surroundings including people and vehicles.

Look for cars that may be following them to their home. Drive past their home if they think a vehicle may be following them.

Don't answer the door if someone knocks if they don't expect a visitor or if they feel uncomfortable about who is at the door.

Never hesitate to call 911. Law enforcement officers would rather respond to a false call than have a citizen be a victim of a crime. If a woman thinks she may be in danger, call 911 instead of a friend or family member.

Ensure their home entrance is well lit and free of objects that could hide a person, such as shrubbery.

If someone approaches and tries to engage them in conversation, don't hesitate if they don't feel comfortable. Be confident and alert in their actions. If someone should grab them, make as much noise as possible by screaming or yelling. Try to create distance and run. Once a criminal has someone in a vehicle, home or building, no one else knows they are in danger.

If a woman is forced to drive a vehicle, crash the car in a manner that will not likely cause injury.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 11







If a woman chooses to carry a weapon, be familiar with its function. Do not carry personal use pepper spray on a key ring with many keys because it may become very difficult to find and use under stress.

Personal use Tasers do not incapacitate some one a after the Taser shuts off. Be prepared for a criminal to be fully functional once the Taser looses contact with the person or shuts off.

If a woman chooses to carry a gun, take a gun safety class and be familiar with how it functions. Understand that it is not a good idea to point a gun with the intent of scaring some

WHAT’S UP one. If a criminal calls the bluff, a woman may be forced to either shoot another person or have the gun taken away by the criminal. Women should be mentally prepared to shoot someone and be comfortable with the consequences if someone is injured or killed.

Lt. Stacey Barrett

Louisiana State Police

WOMAN II WOMAN sons winter, spring, summer, or fall. Winter- cold, icy, harsh period of life! This season only last for a short time, not permanent. Then here comes spring blossoming from the harshness of winter with a bold confession that I made it through the winter; I'm still standing. Let me get my act together and begin to stand on my feet. Let me do something to prepare myself for the sunshine and warmth of summer.

Summer states I have made it, and I have arrived!

Look at me now; I'm here letting the party begin!

Then here comes fall, I'm ok, but I need to prepare for a rough time in life, so I will be able to sustain myself. The seasons remind me so much of life, how we go through trials and tribulations, how we sustain, and how we come out victorious! I love the seaAs I lay in my bed listening to a talented gospel sing- sons because they prepare me for life. So next time er sing a song called "Justified". God dropped this your life feels as you are in a winter situation, just hold on spring is coming! The seasons are only temlittle thought into my head “When is My Season?" How many of you have often pondered when porary. Sometimes you have to encourage yourself!

I am gonna stop having to fight my way through this My daily confession is nothing missing, nothing lacklife, when will i get healed from this forsaken illness, ing, and nothing broken! when will my Boaz appear, when will I get the finan- Be blessed! cial support I pray for, when, when, when... Then a By, Charlotte Jefferson Huggins little voice sweetly says "in your due season." Then you say what a season is? Season is defined as a specific time period. In our life, we deal with four sea

Seasons for Life

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 12

mind through difficult times, good times and when her honor was questioned. Darlene’s conviction was tested on June 12, 2002 when involved in a car accident that took the lives of two of her children. This was a real challenge, but God brought her and her husband Milton through.

[BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT]

Husband- Milton H. Reese III was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, the youngest of 12 children. Milton’s mother and father instilled to be a strong man and to care for are family.

His father" the late Milton Reese Jr" showed him how to be a loving husband by example. Milton Reese III attended Bishop State Community College in education, Tougaloo College majoring in counseling and Southern University. Darlene speaks highly of her husband’s ability; he is subtle but firm. She says he loves the lord, church (Living Faith Christian Center) and family. Darlene and Milton have been married for 15 years and received Jesus Christ in the last 10 years together. They have grown in their marriage through the ministry and their relationship with God and family.

Darlene Reese was born in Baton Rouge, LA and reared in the community of Scotlandville as the youngest of six girls in a single parent home. Darlene’s mother Josephine Harrison cleaned homes for a living and then went back to school and obtained a degree in Culinary Arts. Her mother taught her girls how to become strong and independent women. She instilled values in her daughters to become empowered and motivated. Josephine most importantly instilled in her daughters to put God first. Darlene always kept her mother’s teaching in Ambassador Mortgage is a company that serves the nation with six employees and 15 investors. Provide financial services for home buyers, we offer First-Time Buyers, FHA, VA, Conventional, USDA and the Baton Rouge Community Development Program for low-moderate income individuals and families. We work with credit scores at 580 and above. We have a Quality Control (Fraud Control) and service Commercial Property. Darlene has been a loan officer for four different companies and later became a net broker for two companies’. With an MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

COVER STORY

abundance of knowledge about the Mortgage business, she decided to step out on faith, and Ambassador Mortgage was established. Ambassador Mortgage target market are individuals, and who are families who in the market of purchasing homes or commercial property. We provide all who are seeking this service. Darlene’s strength is the knowledge of her business, customer service and quality control. The opportunities are endless as the economy continues to increase.

Ambassador will continue to expand its wings and perhaps expand its reach outside of the borders of Louisiana.

Ambassador Mortgage has been in operations since October 23, 2011.

Location is 5700 Florida Blvd. Suite 600 Baton Rouge, La. 70806, 225-3413551.

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 13

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 14

The Power of Ten Dollars

By Linda Allred,

The Bad Habit Breaker/Certified Hypnotist These days $10.00 doesn't buy you much at any store. Perhaps a loaf of bread, a dozen eggs, and a quart of milk, but that's pretty much it. So, what does the value of $10.00 have to do with anything, you ask?

As it turns out, plenty!

Awhile back a gentleman bought my Child's Health/Confidence CD®, one in my series of Positive Affirmation CDs I've made over the years. Rather than have me retell his story, I asked him if he'd kindly put down in words what happened once his young son started listening to the CD on a regular basis.

With love and thanks, here's the story of Dino as told by his Dad, Albert.

“Dino always saw the glass half-empty in every aspect of his life, and his mother and I felt he had been this way since birth, or at least as long as we could remember. He's battled a pretty severe case of eczema since he was born and we always told ourselves, “Who wouldn't be grouchy with what he has to tolerate?”

Over the last few years his skin condition has improved significantly, but he still has to deal with it daily. As parents we were concerned that if Dino carried this predisposition of constant negativity into adulthood, he would never be able to enjoy his life, even if it was fantastic.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

BETTER U The idea of trying hypnosis came to mind because when he was 5 years old, he started to protest being “creamed” every night. I went to a hypnotist that made a recording for Dino consisting of suggestions that cream felt good and was good for his skin. After listening for a week or so, he began to apply it himself. That's when I contacted Linda, who suggested we first try the online download of Children's Health/ Confidence CD for a month.

As the download only cost $10.00 instead of the price of a private session, it seemed like a good first step. I fully expected minimal impact and that he would definitely need a customized hypnosis at the end of the 30 days.

Continue on page 18

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 15

Famous Women Trivia

WHAT’S UP

……………………………………..

1. Kerry MacLarey drops her book bag on the floor and slumps onto a kitchen chair. "I've got a new teacher and she wants everyone to write an essay on a famous woman from history!" "Who are you writing about?" her mom asks. Kerry sighs. "Some chick who led an army and was burned at the stake. Ugh." Who is Kerry going to write an essay about?

Joan of Arc Bernadette St. Theresa Isabella of France 2. "Can you believe this" Kerry MacLarey asks as she slams the door shut. "I have to write an essay on some Iceni queen who led an uprising against the Romans." "Maybe I can help," her mom says. "What is her name?" What is the name of the woman Kerry has to write about?

Boudica Maeve Veleda Branwen 3. Kerry MacLarey crumples her paper into a ball and tosses it toward the wastebasket. "I can't write an essay about this woman." "Why not?" her mom asks, picking up the crumpled paper and stuffing it in the wastebasket. "Because everyone knows she was the first female in space. What else would I write?" Who was the first female in space?

Valentina Tereshkova Christa McAuliffe Svetlana Savitskaya Sally Rid

Copyright 2010 FunTrivia.com All Rights Reserved

ANSWERS ON PAGE 34

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 16

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 17

The Power of Ten Dollars Cont……

Personally, my wife and I BETTER U will never again doubt We saw it as a long shot because his attitude the impact that positive seemed woven into his personality, but even affirmations can have on a person's wellthe slightest improvement would be welbeing. The $10.00 we spent on that download comed. http://tinyurl.com/3xkpmnz is likely to After playing the CD every night at bedtime be THE best value on money spent helping for about 3 weeks you couldn't help but noour child to thrive!” tice a regular, dare I say, “sunny” disposition developing in Dino. He was laughing and good humored most of the time. Previously if Linda, thanks so much!! things didn't go exactly as he expected them Albert & Lisa Pellissier, Baton Rouge, LA to, he would have some varying degree of a meltdown. These all but disappeared, and when he occasionally threw a fit, it made us realize how infrequent they were and how far WOW! Thanks Albert, Lisa, and Dino. What a he had come in a short time. As a matter of fantastic true story! fact, his 4th grade teacher told me that Dino Think about this. If a 10 year old who did not makes comments that she's never heard from even want to listen to the CD can have such a him before like, “I'm awesome” and “I know total transformation in his life, what do you think you think I'm awesome, don't you?” would happen to you if you really wanted to break your bad habits and let go of your limiting beliefs?

Not only has his disposition done a 360° turn- Linda Allred, THE Bad Habit Breaker/Certified around, his confidence levels have increased Hypnotist. To apply for a complimentary Break Your Bad Habits Strategy Session as well. with Linda, receive 5 Special FREE Gifts and We are so pleased with the results we've her bonus audio recording “How Do I Get seen in Dino listening to Linda's Children's Slim NOW?” visit http:// Health/Confidence CD, http:// www.LindaAllred.com today! tinyurl.com/3xkpmnz that we're now getting our teenage daughter to also listen to the recording daily. She's highly motivated to do this because she's witnessed such a dramatic change in her stubborn little brother.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 18

PRESS ANNOUNCEMENT

WHAT’S UP

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, Mar 13, 2012/PR Advocate/- Mature Woman Magazine today announced plans for a much-anticipated print magazine. Mature Woman Online Magazine, LLC was founded May of 2011 by Nicole Jones and Simone Higginbotham, both of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The intended purpose of this magazine is to provide women with pertinent articles addressing the challenges of life, inspirational encouragement and supportive material in which women from all walks of life can relate. From local feedback here in Louisiana, there is a high demand for a print affordable magazine that offers diversity in our local market arena.

Mature Woman Now Magazine in the past has offered a full digital magazine and a monthly print newsletter with rich interviews and articles. Effective July 01, 2012, it will also be offered in print. This magazine will embrace maturity, aging and wisdom, along with celebrating diversity of women from all races and nationalities. We will promote positive social, personal, and economic growth for our readers as well as, connect them with the community. It will be a portal for women to experience new things to celebrate womanhood in a new light!

We have made enormous strides in realizing our vision for this print magazine will come to fruition. In fact, the sneak peak edition will be featured at our First Annual Pink and Rose Gala which is raising Alopecia Awareness on June 2, 2012 from 8p -12a. It will be held at the beautiful Radisson Hotel located on 2445 Acadian Thruway here in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Formal Attire is requested, and tickets are $25.00 per person, dinner and live entertainment from Ntune is included at this exclusive event. Tickets can be purchased on either of our websites www. Maturewomannow.com or maturewomannowblogspot.com.

We look forward to these momentous changes and grand events that will be taking place in the near future.

Mature Woman Now Magazine plans to take Baton Rouge by storm in July 2012. Precise First bi-monthly print edition and your support are appreciated and needed.

Sincerely, Elissa Boudreaux Publicist Mature Woman Now Magazine maturewomannow.com maturewomannowpubliicist@gmail.com

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 19

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 20

The Body by Vi 90 Day Challenge is a transformation challenge where you will improve health, lose weight or gain muscle, and get fit. First you choose your personal fitness goal in order to select a kit that fits your goal. Secondly, you should record your weight, body measurements, and take a before picture to enter the contest. Then you would track your results for 90 days. As an incentive to achieve your goal, ViSalus Sciences awards $25 million a year in prizes. Prizes consist of makeovers, vacations, cruises, products and cash!!!!

The core product of “The Challenge” is the Vi Shape meal replacement shake. People can either replace one to two meals a day to lose weight, or take in addition to 3 meals to gain muscle mass. “The Challenge” Vi Shape shakes cost about $1.87 per serving so it will save you money! We also have a 3 For Free program, where if you join “The Challenge” and get at least three people to join with you, and their kits are equal or greater in value to yours, you get your kit FREE!

For more information, please visit my website – http://yvonnes.bodybyvi.com or call Yvonne Stallings – (225)938-2453.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 21

WOMAN II WOMAN

12 Reasons You May Have Low Libido

LOV IN

By JP Dunbar, Sexpert—

G YO

UR M AN

BOUDIOR SESSIONS

5. Lack of Sleep. A decent night's rest might be hard to come by, but you need sleep to keep a sharp mind, a healthy body, and an active libido. When you’re exhausted, you’d rather catch up on sleep. A lack of sleep can elevate cortisol levels, which also leads to low libido.

1. Stress. The body reacts to stress by releasing adrenaline and cortisol. Chronic stress can interfere with your body’s hormone levels and result in a low libido. Your arteries can also narrow and restrict blood flow in response to stress, which can also lead to erectile dysfunction. Stress can also reduce your libido by distracting you and taking your mind off sexual desire.

2. Depression. Depression can change the body's biochemis-

6. Medication. Some medications used to treat depression, high blood pressure, and other common illnesses can affect libido or cause sexual dysfunction.

7. Erectile Dysfunction. Low libido is a common emotional side effect of ED. Once a man experiences ED, he may get anxious. His confidence is shaken, and he might be afraid it will happen again. His libido shuts down to preserve his ego.

try and reduce your desire for sex. It's also difficult to feel sexu- 8. Hormone Imbalance. Libido is directly influenced by tesal when you're depressed. Visit your doctor if you feel you may tosterone levels. Therefore, low libido is often caused by low be depressed. Remember that some medications used to treat testosterone levels — a hormone imbalance. depression may also cause side effects that lower libido.

9. Menopause. Women may experience low libido during 3. Low Self-Esteem. It's hard to feel sexy when your selfmenopause for a number of reasons. Estrogen levels drop durconfidence is down or when you have an unhealthy body iming these years causing vaginal tissue to become dry. This can age. If, someone feels unattractive is less likely to want roman- lead to discomfort and pain during intercourse and discourage tic play. Taking the time to remind yourself that you are beauti- a woman’s sexual desire. Menopause can also lower testosful just the way you are will boost your self-esteem and give terone, the hormone that boosts libido in women as well as, you desire to engage in sex again. men.

4. Alcohol or Drug Use. A little alcohol can help lower inhibi-

10. Health Conditions. Serious systemic illnesses, such as cantions, but too much can impair your nervous system and lead to cer or kidney disease, can suppress testosterone levels and refatigue — making it tough to become aroused. Other drugs can duce sperm production. Be sure to have a regular doctor’s visits decrease your sex drive, as well. For example, marijuana supto uncover any unhealthy issues. presses the pituitary gland, which regulates the production of testosterone.

JP Dunbar is CEO of The L Bar, an adult romance company whose mission is to raise the bar on love by empowering women everywhere to feel comfortable in the skin they are in while enjoying a life with intimacy.

ON

ATI UVEN

REJ

SE

AL U S N

ROM A

NCE

PLE AS

UR E

**Enjoy 10% OFF any purchase of adult romance products when shopping The L Bar Marketplace by using Promo Code: MWN101Q when visiting www.thelbar.com.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 22

BOUDIOR SESSIONS

WOMAN II WOMAN

11. Relationship Trouble. When a couple is fighting or feeling distant from each other, they're less likely to want to be intimate. Communication problems, anger, conflicts, resentment — all these negative emotions can carry over into the bedroom. Try making the bedroom a place for lovemaking only. Take disagreements into another room to resolve and agree to avoid the fighting or distance linger.

12. Lack of Time. Have you ever been too busy for sex? Sometimes the hectic schedules of daily life can put your sex and romance life on the backburner. Don’t think that there will be time for sex later in the day when nothing else is going on.

You may want to schedule sex. But know that unless you make time for each other and for intimacy, it may not happen. Eventually lack of sex can lead to low libido.

ASK THE SEXPERT

JP DU SEXP

NBAR

ERT

Q.: My partner wants me to try oral sex with him. He offers it to me, but I am just not comfortable returning the favor. Maybe it’s the gagging feeling I experience or just thought that oral sex is unclean that makes me reluctant. I want to, please him. What can I do to get over this hurdle?

Regina L. Bristol, VA A.: Regina, Oral pleasure is now more accepted in the United States more than any country in the world. Take time to realize that giving oral pleasure to your partner should not only be enjoyable for him, but also for you. If you experience complications when participating, try a flavored stimulant like, “Comfortably Numb” which comes in the form a small spray bottle or package of mints. This product can help relax throat muscles known for causing gag reflex thus making the experience pleasurable for both of you. Since it is flavored, you’ll likely enjoy the taste and its stimulating effects will be a plus for him.

To submit your question for answer send an email including your contact information to: boudoirsessions@maturewoman.com

If, you feel you need a little more experience in this area, check out local store for seminars on the subject, or visit www.thelbar.com check our listing of upcoming webinars and workshops that could give you a few tips on oral play.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 23

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 24

AMBITION force to be reckoned with and can accomplish whatever heart desires.

We've since renamed our ministry to WOW (Women of Worship). According to the scripture verse in St. John 4:23 KJV, "But the hour cometh and now is when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh to worship him.

And knowing this truth is our foundation to be totally whole and complete and not wanting anything. For WOW, worship connects us with the Father and makes us one.

I

We are so blessed to have the love of God and permission of our Pastor,

Bishop Gregory

Cooper, to seek to be whole and to serve an ever

shall never forget the day when the Lord spoke to me and said: Lady Cooper, Moses led my daughters out of the wilderness. Good knows that I have a burden for the pains, afflictions, hurts, heartaches, and misunderstandings that women are faced with. God admonished me to be a loud voice and leader by faith to undertake this journey, through this WISH was born, Women in Spiritual Harmony. Hundreds of women came aboard, as easily incorporated.

There are fellowships where we discussed issues and concerns, pray, and sought solutions. We also take retreats out of town to get away from the burdens of our many expectations.

We have had many opportunities to minister to the needs of women and young ladies by donating personal hygiene items, school uniforms, business clothing, etc. We have even purchased tires for cars and a variety of avenues that we have used to help.

loving Savior.

We would like to invite MWN Magazine and readers to join us our 1st Annual "Announcement Affair." We are featuring Host, Radio Personality & Comedian Tony King Is Funny. Come walk the red carpet. This event will be held at Socially Yours on Friday, April 13, 2012 from 7pm to 10pm. Business Owners come share your business information with us. Readers, If you have something significant going in your life and you would like to share it with us, please come share your news with us. Please join us for a great time of fellowship, food, dancing, & fun. Tickets are only $15.

Contact us at 225-308-1263 for ticket information.

We are currently accepting sponsors for this event, as well. We look forward to seeing you there!

It is our desire to build and equip the women to love God and trust him totally and realize that she has a MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE� 25

BETTER U

I AM NOT MY HAIR

“Girl did you know you had a bald spot the size of a quarter in the back of your head?” It was the last thing I thought I’d hear on Saturday night while my friend relaxes my hair. I had gone to spend the weekend with one of my close friends to take my mind off my recent breakup and have some girl talk.

I grab the mirror and run into the bathroom standing with my back to the mirror looking at the back of my head with the handheld mirror and then I see it. While combing through my hair, we found two other dime sized spots missing hair, as well. I had noticed a lot of shedding recently when combing my hair and I noticed it was coming from the root because I could see the little bulb at the end I just thought it was regular shedding. Well 3 days and 1 dermatologist visit later I found out it was not just regular shedding. My dermatologist told me, I had Alopecia Areata after performing scalp biopsy.

Most importantly how do I get rid of it? After further explanation from the doctor, I found out Alopecia was an auto immune disease that’s essentially pushing my hair out of my scalp and shrinking the bulbs, so no hair can grow back. It has no known cause and no cure. She told me there are a few treatment options such as cortisone shots that are injected in the scalp at the site of the bald areas.

Also, she mentioned Rogaine was an option. I opted to try the shots out, to my painful dismay. The shots were a bit painful, but it seems my hair was falling out faster than the hair was growing back so eventually I just stopped going. Over the course of about 3 months, I had lost 50 percent of my hair and counting.

I had no clue what Alopecia was. How did I get it?

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 26

BETTER U During this time, I didn’t tell anyone what was going on I just continued to wear weaves and wigs. On the outside, I was smiling, and on the inside, I was slowly dying, or at least I felt that way. I was never one to wear weave. I loved my hair it was a pleasant length and healthy; to lose it all was difficult to bear sometimes. I would see people I knew, and they’d ask “why are you wearing a wig? You have nice hair.” I would just burst into tears I was extremely emotionally unstable the entire first year or two after getting Alopecia. Every time I looked in the mirror I felt I was seeing at a monster. My loss of hair made me feel less of a woman. I had no one to talk to about what I was going through. The few friends who did know didn’t understand so I honestly didn’t talk about it much. There were no support groups in my area and nothing online that I was aware of. Crying was an everyday thing. I asked God why was this happening and what did I do to deserve this? I just knew I had to be being punished.

Eventually all my hair fell out and all that was left was the hair around my edges and every time I looked I would just cry. One morning I woke up and said screw this, I am so tired of crying every day.

By Mareica L Murphy

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 27

ES: DIM

OF RCH A M ONE G IME IN AT SAV T YA BAB

By

ey abn D shly

BETTER U

A

Before I had my son in 2009, I had always heard of March

of Dimes but never quite understood what the organization was for. Well I guess actions speak louder than words.

These individuals showed me much better than anyone could have ever described what their service and their mission are all about! The doctors did everything they could prolonging my labor after I went into pre mature labor, seven weeks early. At the time, I was unknowledgeable about why this was done until a NICU doctor came to my bedside on day 3 of my labor. I labored with my son from Saturday May 16th until Wednesday May 20th. I was 33 weeks pregnant at the time that I went into the hospital. I was given Magnesium Sulfate unsuccessfully for days to attempt at stalling my labor. I was in active labor with contractions 1-2 minutes. When I spoke with the NICU physician, he explained to me the risks associated with having a baby at 34 weeks, and there would be a chance that his lungs would not be fully developed. He explained to me what would happen if I indeed delivered and my baby’s lungs were premature with respect to sending him to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Eventually I was prepared for a Caesarean Section Wednesday Morning at around 10 am.

My son was born and was admitted into the NICU that same morning. I was devastated. I came from recovery and did not want to talk to or interact with anyone. My world had come crumbling down around me because the baby I had carried for 7 months, I never got to see his face before he was whisked away by the emergency team of doctors and nurses that were on standby in the operating room. While my husband filled out paperwork, I laid in the bed miserable. And then in walks a nurse with a sock puppet. She hands it to me and says “place this doll inside your shirt so that your scent will transfer to it, we will then take it to your baby down in the NICU. The

March of Dimes provided this for you.” That immediately

bators, to having volunteers come around decorating blankets and other crafts for these babies. The most beneficial was the support groups and educational information to parents. I felt so blessed to have this organization in my corner.

1 in 8 babies are born prematurely. All the reasons behind premature birth are still uncertain. March of Dimes raised money to help launch prematurity awareness and to assist with reducing the overall rate of premature births. Research programs are going forward to concentrate on areas in order to reduce the number of premature babies born daily. March of Dimes has several volunteers that petition congress, governors, etc to continue supporting funding for research. There is a report that is released annually that rates our nation state by state as it pertains to premature birth rates. Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama all received an F (visit this site to see how other states were rated http://www.marchofdimes.com/ mission/prematurity_reportcard.html). So there is certainly room for improvement. There are several factors that contribute to premature birth rates in infants. However, most women are not educated on these contributors. Knowledge is power.

Educate yourself. Visit the March of Dimes Website. Support a well worthy cause. Donate to help this organization continue to provide the support that it has to several mothers and babies across the nation. On April 28th 2012, Baton Rouge will host its annual March for Babies Campaign. Supporters are encouraged to fundraise, donate, and participate in "a marathon style walk to support infant prematurity. Anyone who is interested in participating can contact me for further information in the Baton Rouge area. For information on March for Babies in a state near you, please visit

made me feels better, because although I could not physically be with my son at the time, it made me feel connected to him in some sort of way. Throughout my son’s 28 day stay in the NICU at Woman’s Hospital, it seemed as if March of Dimes were always doing something to uplift my spirits. From provid- http://marchforbabies.org/. ing books, so parents could read to their children at the incuMATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 28

THE ORIGINAL ME AND MRS JONE’S BAKERY We at The Original Me and Mrs. Jone’s Bakery, invite you to visit us and being, “A love affair with sweetness.”

Our desserts are made with you in mind as we bring you fresh baked cakes, pies and cookies, along with out signature cupcakes and other specialty desserts.

Let us make your Christenings, Baptisms, Birthdays, Graduations, Engagements, Weddings and Retirements a little more memorable as we take your dreams hopes and special moments and add our unique taste and design to them.

Owner, Donna Butler

Begin YOUR "LOVE AFFAIR WITH "SWEETNESS!" The SWEETNESS that only comes from.....

The Original Me and Mrs. Jones' Bakery!

5630 Main Street Zachary, Louisiana 70791

(225) 654-5557 225-654-5058

Visit us at http://www.theoriginalmeandmrsjonesbakery.com

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 29

AMBITION My name is Kiwan N. Fitch. I am the CEO of The Kiwan N. Fitch, LLC. I created my company with a simple mission: to equip “women in transition” with the resources needed for VICTORY! I want them to ACHEIVE success in all areas of your life: mental wellness, physical wellness, education, parenting and economics.

I am proud to present “Confessions of a Welfare Mom: An Urban Anthology of Personal Experiences”.

As a nation we are experiencing record numbers of women who are reaching out for assistance, it is an exciting time to LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD.

Assistance and are now business owners or career women who are role models for using the systems available to them in order to achieve success in their own rite.

I am honored that so many women were able to search their lives and decide to share their stories. It is the hope of this project that women will read the stories and get hope. Hope for a future, hope for success, and that they will know that there is always hoped.

Confessions of a Welfare Mom are a book that spotlights women who are currently or have at one point in their life time been on any form of public assistance. This includes TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), FI (Family Independence), FOOD STAMPS, GENERAL ASSISTANCE, MEDICAID, and OTHThis project was also designed with a business model ER STATE AND COUNTY RUN PROGRAMS. The book is in mind. I wanted women who submit to the project a composite of the many faces of welfare. to be able to share in the profits. All contributors are As the Co-Founder and Executive Director of a Noninvited to purchase the book at wholesale price in orprofit Organization, I created welfare to work proder to sell it at retail price, thus keep the difference gram for women who were assigned to our program for their own profit. as a “work site” as a condition of their obtaining benI am also compiling submissions from women for fuefits. My coordinator and I made sure that our activiture books: Confessions of a Teen Mom, Formerly Inties were all in line with assuring the full success of carcerated Mom, Lesbian Mom, Formerly Addicted the women who we came in contact with. I began this Mom, and Military Mom. project first as a way to help them see where the cyIf you would like more information about the book, cle of dependency began and identify where, when please feel free to contact me at and how it will end for them.

Then, as a way to share my personal story; I too now Kiwan@kiwanfitch.com or qualify for Food Stamps for the first time in almost 14 www.confessionsofawelfaremom.com or years. As the project progressed, I later opened it up www. KiwanFitch.com to include women who were no longer receiving Sincerely,

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 30

Conrad Fitness DON’T CHEAT YOURSELF Exercises

BETTER U

PUSH REALLY HARD TODAY set your goal to complete as many of the following exercises as you can. You can use timers in every single workout challenge. Timers let us know when to switch exercises keep us pushing harder than a regular clock ever could. Timers take it to a whole different level.

Weighted Squat Jumps

PUSH UPS

Triceps Dips

High Knees

Crushes

Tuck Jumps

V– UPS

Bicycling Weight lunges

YOUR GOAL IS TO FINISH HARD……PLENTY OF WATER……EATING PORTION THE SIZE OF YOUR PALM…… WALK OR RUN AT LEAST A MILE A TODAY……DROP SODAS….. PLENTY OF VEGETABLES AND FRUIT

Conrad's Personal Fitness ~Helping Families Live Healhier Lives~ Contact info phone 225.335.6876 MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 31

READING ROOM [ BOOK REVIEW] It’s amazing, how as kids we dreamed how our lives would be as adults. Nina Tyree’ Ellis is who I am. I grew up in a two-parent home with a brother who is 10 years older than me. There was no real relationship between us aside from sharing the same mother. My parents both received their college degrees in education from a predominately black university, Southern Hill University. My father taught at Dorseyville Middle High, located in White Castle, Louisiana, and my mother opted not to work in education. Instead, she owned and operated the family business, Josie’s Café, which down in Louisiana, ‘café is a place where people congregate and eat good food, while enjoying a nice cold beer. On the weekends, my parents would make a killing, selling food and alcohol topped off with blues and R&B from the d.j. Life was grand for me.

Unlike most kids, I did not have to share anything with anyone.

See that’s the upper advantage when you are the youngest of two children in the home. I guess it did not help that I was my father’s only child, which he accepted William as his son, but there is nothing like flesh and blood. William’s dad was not in his life at all, so it was a blessing he had a stepfather with a good job.

Nina Tyree’ Ellis was born and reared in a twoparent household with plenty of luxuries of life to go ‘round. Though she had whatever money could buy, she eventually realizes money can’t buy things that truly matter…like love. To fill her void, she impatiently fills it with anyone who remotely seems like they will love her, but how can she know if they truly love her if she doesn’t know what love is? Trapped in a cycle of self-destruction, heartbreaks and terrible decisions, the question is, “Will she start living to love, instead of dying to be loved?” The answer to this question is pivotal, as it will significantly affect her life’s journey and the lives of those who come into her life forever.

Author Desirable Jones

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

I can remember the times when my mama would have me at the café during the day, while my dad was teaching those stupid ass kids. (When I say these kids were dumb…damn! How did they ever make it to middle school on a first grade level of intelligence; and please believe me, that’s being modest.) I can remember as little as four years old, sitting on top of the bar listening to shit and seeing shit perhaps a kid at four should not be seeing or hearing from those dirty old-ass men.

Growing up, I never had many friends that I can recall, until one day my parents moved into this nice neighborhood. I commuted to high school driving in a fresh new ride my rich ass parents bought. We lived a very comfortable life in my eyes. To me, life was the bomb.

Later, I made new friends and we became inseparable. Folks hated on me because I lived in the one and only big home in Glen Haven Estates. Mostly white folks lived in that area, until some of the uppity black folks eventually moved up. I attended this hip hop school, Ishman High in one of the roughest hoods in the BR (short for Baton Rouge). Yes, I must admit I was born with a silver spoon in my mouth. I mean, I didn’t have to want for nothing,…but one thang!

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 32

BETTER U

Ingredients Juice of 1 ½ orange Juice of ½ lemon ½ of small red onion sliced ¼ cup of virgin olive oil 1/8 cup of salt 1 bag of mixed greens washed and dried 1/3 cup black olives pitted

[ HEALTHY EATING]

Directions

In a medium bowl mix together juice of ½ orange, lemon juice, most of the red onion, olive oil and salt. Mix well, taste to see if more salt is needed.

Pell the remaining orange and cut into pieces, remove the seeds. Set aside.

Place salad greens in a large bowl. Toss together with juice mixture. Add orange pieces and toss. Taste to see if more dressing should be added. Serve the salad with remainder of onion and olives on top.

Serves 4

Breakfast Parfait container (8 oz.) low-fat vanilla flavored yogurt cup water ½ cup fresh fruit (sliced strawberries, sliced banana, blueberries or raspberries) 1 cup Special K® Original cereal Directions In 2 tall glasses, layer yogurt, fruit and cereal until glass is full.

Top with extra fruit.

Serve immediately.

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 33

ANSWERS TO FAMOUS WOMEN TRIVIA 1) Joan of Arc 2)Boudica 3)Valentina Tereshkova MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 34

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 35

READING ROOM

Confessions of A Welfare Mom

Ms. Hasonia Cousins’ story is an example of

“the safety net” that AFDC/TANF is meant to be: “When I registered I was at rock bottom didn’t know anywhere to turn to. I do the task at that was asked of me, and I received more help than I had expected.

They gave me housing assistance for one year and, I was grateful, when my year was up they granted me a six month stay which I thought was awesome. I starts to believe that good things come to those who wait Excerpts from the book narrated by Dr. Barbara Milton, II, PhD, and work so hard for. Now I’m stable in my own LCSW apartment without welfare assistance. Learning life in work skills pays off I feel so improved. So I can thank Ms. A. Smith relates her anger about “the per- the welfare for their assistance in helping me through my times of need.” ception or generalization of a “Welfare Mom” is that Christiana Kirkpatrick lost her job and needed we are poor, black, lazy uneducated, incompetent, ghetto females”. She tells the desperate story of her anything but, lazy attempts to find work: “The reality of an economy that has failed to work people and cannot sustain working poor women who want children and want to make a life for them. Sent out about 100 résumés monthly and knocking down the door to a bunch of deadened job fairs. It's hard trying to make $320 into $850 so I can pay my rent.”

Ms. Sheniese Hightower tells us about her struggles to find work and her maltreatment with caseworkers: “I am currently on welfare because, at this present time, I am unable to find a job.” “Being on welfare affects my life in some positive and some negative ways. The positive side of it all is that I am able to keep food in my kids’ mouth and medical benefits, but the negative side is the things we have to go through to receive the benefits, like you have to give them your whole life story and there’s no privacy at all what so ever. I mean they be quick to cut you off for any little thing but take forever to put you on.”

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

medical insurance for her sick child. She remembers feeling trapped; assaulting her dignity: “It really has affected my life by keeping me in the box limiting what I can do and, when I can do it.” “Not having people talk down to me like I’m nothing. Being able to show them that I am able to do on my own and that I don’t need them for their once a month check. I’m tired of being told what to do and if you don’t do you will be sanctioned.”

Anita Allen says that sometimes there is nowhere else to turn and even though the workers may not treat you right, you got to do what you have to for you and your children to be ok: “God lead me to a Building on the street where it had a Banner stating New Apartments for Rent low to Moderate income.

The lady in the office was truly not receptive and quite rude.”

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 36

ADVERTISING WITH MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 37

PLANNING YOUR FINANCIAL GROWTH

Did You Know?

Success in your financial life is 20% knowledge and only 80% behavior. It’s not how smart you are, but how smart you act. However, you do need the 20%?

Over the coming weeks and months, I’ll be sharing some basic financial concepts on which to build your financial future.

CONCEPT #1: PAY YOURSELF FIRST That just means to put yourself and your family at the head of the line. Put your family’s future ahead of the utility company, the landlord or Mortgage Company. Certainly put your future ahead of a fancy car, designer jeans or another shiny thing for the house or garden.

The American personal savings rate is not a shocking-1.4%! The saving rate fell into a negative for a full year only twice before 1932 and 1933…the Great Depression. You cannot turn around a savings pattern for an entire nation, but you can control the pattern you adopt. You begin by setting aside a set amount each month. A good rule of thumb to shoot for is 10% of your income. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

To have a complete savings program, most people need three types of basic accounts: Emergency Fund

SHORT TERM SAVINGS

Before you begin saving for retirement or other long range saving goals, it’s important to establish an emergency fund. This actually serves to protect your long term accounts from the necessity of stripping them in the event of a financial challenge or crisis. An emergency account is a reserve fund to be used in the event of an unforeseen emergency or expense like the loss of a job or a serious medical problem. Your goal should be between 3 to 6 months expenses or salary.

To help you avoid credit card debt, this is money set aside for Christmas, vacation, computer etc.,

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 38

PLANNING YOUR FINANCIAL GROWTH

LONG TERM SAVINGS: This is design for retirement, college funding and other long-range savings.

These funds do not have to be accessible as the other two accounts we’ve discussed. For this type of cash accumulation and wealth building strategy.

Think “invest” rather than “save.”

In the future articles I will share other wealth building strategies…..common sense ideas and concepts we can all adopt.

Did You Know?

Just 1 to 2 generations ago there was no such thing as consumer debt runs 2.5 trillion dollars not counting mortgages. The average American spends 98% of disposable income on maintaining debt.

Just 1 to 2 generations ago there was no such thing as consumer debt runs 2.5 trillion dollars not counting mortgages. The average American spends 98% of disposable income on maintaining debt.

CONCEPT #2: ELIMINATE DEBT

Of all the threats to financial future, none is more dangerous than debt. Debt is Financial Enemy # 1. Our overuse of credit card is a lethal combination of how common place and how convenient it is to use plastic to pay for nearly everything. We can now pay for fast food with credit cards. Do you really want to pay interest on burger and fries?

This blurs the line between “I want” and “I need.” The quest for instant gratification often leads to instant money misery. Money problems that can take a few months to create can take years to solve.

The key is to understand how your credit cards work (they don’t all work the same!) and to develop a written plan for attacking debt (debt stacking is a very effective tool for debt elimination). In other words….TAKE CONTROL. If you’d like a complimentary booklet explaining the financial concepts I’ve been sharing, call me or drop me a postcard and I’ll send you one.

Mary Bellanger is a Regional Vice President for Primerica. She partners with parents and business owners sharing financial concepts that help them make more money, save more money and get out of Debt. Call her at (225) 755-2274 or (225) 335-9150

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 39

MATURE WOMAN NOW MAGAZINE OFFERS COMPETITIVE ADVERTISEMENT RATES IN OUR ONLINE AND PRINT PUBLICATION. WE ARE A VIEWED IN OVER 40 STATES AND 7 COUNTRIES. EXPANSION OF PRINT PUBLICATION IN ALL OF THE SOUTHERN REGIONAL STATES COMING SOON. REQUEST FOR A MEDIA KIT NOW AT maturewomannow@gmail.com or (225) 266– 8577

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 40

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 41

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 42

MATURE WOMAN MAGAZINE

EXPAND. EXPOSURE.THRIVE “CATERING TO WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE” 43