Women2Women Council: Vicki O Ebner, Toni Eckert, Wendy Kerschner, Bethany Kirkner, Maria Mitchell, Mary Ann Moffitt, Julia Nickey, Mary Jean Noon, Tracy Parmer, Chiara Renninger, Regina Rinehimer, Rachael Romig, Brenda Rosado
Trish Shermot, Alison Snyder, Vanessa Wanshop
Women2Women encourages women to create connections, gain knowledge, open doors, build strategic alliances, and much more. Our goal is to develop more women leaders in Berks County by providing a forum where women from diverse backgrounds can learn, share ideas and mentor each other. Membership is free and Women2Women Magazine is a publication of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance.
Penn State Health St. Joseph UGI Energy Services, LLC
UGI Utilities, Inc.
Wells Fargo
Platinum Investors
Alvernia University
Boscov’s Department Store, Inc.
Carpenter Technology Corporation
East Penn Manufacturing Company, Inc.
Encompass Health
First National Bank
Penske Truck Leasing
Reading Hospital Tower Health Santander Bank, N.A.
Gold Investors BB&T
Berks Community Television
Berks County Bar Association
Berks County Living Comfort Keepers
Customers Bank
Elegance Derma Spa Fulton Bank
Herbein + Company, Inc.
Highmark Blue Shield
Masano Bradley
MJ Reider Associates
Reading Dermatology Associates
Reading Truck Body RKL LLP
Sweet Street Desserts
Tompkins VIST Bank
VA Productions, Inc.
De Mujer a Mujer
Giant Food Stores
HGSK Law Firm
EnerSys
Met Ed/ First Energy
The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
FOR ADULTS WHO
Reflections
Empowerment: the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights.
We are genuinely excited to introduce Tala Raassi to you, our keynote speaker for the upcoming Evening of Empowerment. She is brave beyond measure and embodies all the things we preach.
Knowledge is power, so read up on how to be your own health advocate, as well as when and how to seek a second opinion when it comes to a diagnosis.
We also invite you to get to know Rachael Romig, the new director of the Women2Women program. Her quick (and comical!) intro interview is featured in this edition.
Readers, as always, I would love to hear from you! Please drop me any thoughts, suggestions, or story ideas you may have via the email address below. Here’s to a truly empowered autumn!
Sara Frassinelli, Managing Editor sfrassinelli@greaterreading.org
Pick up your copy of
Boyertown Dancing Tree Creations
Douglassville
My Dad’s Flooring
Exeter
Martin Appliance
The Spine & Wellness Center
Morgantown Weaver’s Orchard, Inc.
Reading
DoubleTree Hotel
Goggleworks Center for the Arts
Greater Reading Chamber Alliance
Judy’s on Cherry
Shillington
Goodwill Fashion Store
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
Jessica Bezler
Reading Hospital – Tower Health
Raquel J. Capellan Community Advocate
Heather Christie Real Estate Associate Broker & Author
Sara Frassinelli
Greater Reading Chamber Alliance
Kelly Hancock Community Volunteer
Tracy Hoffmann Hoffmann Publishing Group
Amy Impellizzeri
Wyatt-MacKenzie Publishing
Amy B. Klatt Herbein + Company, Inc.
Karen Klein Fulcrum Information Resources
Rosa Parra Palo Magazine
Rachael Romig
Greater Reading Chamber Alliance
Monica Rush Penn State Health – St. Joseph
Women2Women Magazine
Sinking Spring Charlotte Shoppe
Temple Riverview Gardens & Gifts
West Lawn
Elegance Derma Spa
Reading Dermatology Associates
West Reading
The Compleat Baldwin Brass Center
Frock
Wyomissing
Be Balanced Hormone
Weight Loss Center
Bell Tower Salon,
Medi-Spa & Store
The Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence
Courtyard by Marriott
L.A. Spa & Nail Bar
Wyomissing Hair Studio
Or visit us online at berkswomen2women.com
If you own a business and want to receive copies of Women2Women magazine, please contact Rachael Romig at rromig@greaterreading.org.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2019
Annual Evening of Empowerment
Tala RaassiFeaturing
See page 9 forTala Raassi biography
Women2Women is extremely excited to host an Evening of Empowerment featuring Tala Raassi, Iranian American fashion designer, entrepreneur and author, on October 1st at the Crowne Plaza Reading. Each year we strive to bring women in our community a high-level speaker who can share with us her inspirations, her struggles and achievements, and leave us as better women for the upcoming year!
Join us for appetizers and networking, talk with our sponsors and learn about their products (maybe even win a prize!), and meet fellow women from our community before hearing Tala tell her story. Afterwards, she will be available to sign her book, which will be for sale at the event.
“My goal is to become an icon and a role model for all women who want to follow their dreams, whether it’s in fashion, business or becoming a mother. They shouldn’t let anything stop them. I think women are beautiful and should be celebrated.”
— Tala Raassi
“Brave New Girl”
At sixteen years old, Tala was arrested at a co-ed party for her rebellious and unlawful acts of dancing to Western music and wearing a “mini” skirt. She faced the harsh punishment of five days in jail and forty lashes for wearing “indecent clothing” but ultimately for seeking simple freedoms. Following her unimaginable experience, Raassi moved back to the United States, where she continued to seek opportunities to express and celebrate freedom for all. “Freedom is not about the amount of clothing you put on or take off, it’s about having the choice to do so.”
“One of the Most Fearless Women in the World”
Born in the United States and raised in Iran, Tala is devoted to celebrating the beauty of women through her designs and to empowering women all around the world to follow their dreams. With bravery, a dream, hard work and some needle and thread, Raassi went from Iran to the Miss Universe competition and ultimately being named “One of the Most Fearless Women in the World” by Newsweek Magazine. She made her mark in the fashion world at an early age with her talent in exclusive swimwear. Raassi captivated the world through her inspiring book entitled Fashion is Freedom: How a Girl from Tehran Broke the Rules to Change Her World
“One of the Most Influential Women in the World”
While her work reflects the celebration of beauty, it also reflects her belief in women’s strength. It’s a strength she sees in herself and her business. No matter the obstacles that she faced, Raassi did not allow the difficult hardships on her journey to deter her from chasing her dreams and creating change in the world. The Capitol File Magazine referred to her as the “Brave New Girl.”
Raassi has come full circle on her journey of empowerment to define the freedoms that so many take advantage of, earning herself the title of “One of the Most Influential Women in the World” by the London Times. 2
Register today at at berkswomen2women.com
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2019
5:00-8:00PM
Crowne Plaza Reading $50 per person
2
Book signing to follow. Interested in purchasing and reading her book prior to the event? Find Fashion is Freedom: How a Girl from Tehran Broke the Rules to Change Her World online or in your local book store!
“Tompkins VIST Bank understands non-profits in a way that other banks don’t.”
“We help animals by helping people,” says President and CEO Karel Minor. “When we provide veterinary services to people who are in need, we keep more animals safe and sound in their homes.”
To help achieve their mission, Humane Pennsylvania relies on Tompkins Financial for banking, investments and employee health insurance. “They keep finding new ways to help us grow and succeed.”
The Highlands at Wyomissing represents an ideal – and trusted – model of inspired, engaging, extraordinary living for seniors. You’ll see and feel it the moment you arrive on our beautiful campus. When you walk through our doors, you’ll feel the excitement, camaraderie and vitality. Most importantly, you’ll feel a real sense of community.
Our Evening of Empowerment speaker, Tala Raassi, will be sharing her life story and the point in time that made her realize her world needed to change.
Freedom is not about the amount of clothing you put on or take off, but about having the choice to do either. The last time I went to a beach in France, I saw women who wore hijabs, covered from head to toe, walking on the same beaches as women in their European-cut bikinis. Their freedom of choice empowered me. I found a new respect for women who chose to cover themselves in accordance with their religious beliefs. I also respected those who fearlessly wore bikinis. All of these women had made a choice about how they wanted to present themselves.”
Excerpt from The Daily Beast (Jan 2 2017)
Tala Raassi was born in Silver Spring, Maryland. At the age of 2 her family decided to move back to Tehran. American culture was always something she enjoyed. “I would watch illegal satellite TV—watching [shows like] Baywatch and 90210. I wanted to copy [their style].”
The inevitable conflict of living in a state-run religious atmosphere and life within a less than religious family created an identity complex. “I grew up in a post revolution-Iran,” she told me. “There were so many restrictions imposed. We grew up with families who had [under the Shah] drunk alcohol and partied. Then, I also grew up in a society where I had to cover myself head to toe.”
Growing up, Raassi had heard many stories of arrests. But like all strong-headed young people before her she believed herself immune. It could never happen to me.
One fateful evening this mantra was challenged. Raassi was attending a small co-ed party (very illegal in the Tehran
of 1998). There were no drugs or alcohol, but there was American music (“illegal music”) and illegal male-female intermingling. The Basij raided the party and began to make arrests. Raassi attempted to outrun the religious police guards, but she stopped when they managed to catch up to her and threatened to shoot her.
The group was taken to Vozara Prison, where they were sentenced to 40 lashes for the girls, 50 lashes for the boys, and would spend the next five days.
“I realized my parents were never strict with me to suppress my individuality and expression,” she said. “They were strict with me to protect me from being in the situation I found myself in—arrested and lashed.” Outside of the courtroom, Raassi’s family waited. One by one, her friends were called forward to receive their punishment. Join Tala as she shares the rest of her story on October 1st. 2
Suzanne M Rigg
Financial
Associate
2211 Quarry Dr Ste E60 West Lawn, PA 19609 484-374-5531
Thrivent was named one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” by Ethisphere Institute 2012–2019.
Rebecca Rapoport-Cole, Actress from “My Dad and Bob Todd.”
Photo credit - Walt Hug
Celebrating FEMALE Filmmakerss
ReadingFilmFEST will present its 5th annual festival October 31 – November 3, 2019. In preparation for celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment passed by Congress on June 4, 1919 and ratified on August 18, 1920, ReadingFilmFEST is honoring the efforts of 21st Century women making their mark on the world through filmmaking. The festival with support from Berks AAUW (American Association of University Women) will present an award for Best Film by a Female Filmmaker, offer panels by and for women filmmakers, and showcase films in all categories by women.
ReadingFilmFEST was created in 2015 by filmmakers for filmmakers. Says Creative Director and filmmaker Tracy Schott, “We wanted to reward independent filmmakers for their vision and sacrifice and provide audiences with a meaningful experience. Over 80% of the films we screen our represented by filmmakers. Our audiences love it!”
“I loved the star treatment given to us filmmakers, and the fact that every screening I attended had a packed audience who was fully engaged with the films and filmmakers!”
— Bruce Gorman, The Clown
The festival has recently been rated by FilmFreeway as one of the Top 100 Best Filmmaker Reviewed Festivals.
“Hands down the best festival experience we’ve ever had.”
— Joshua Land, I Like Me
But it’s more than going to the movies. Reading boasts a vibrant arts scene, including a symphony, Jazz Fest, and top visual artists. By integrating fine art, great food, music and dance into its events, ReadingFilmFEST provides an unexpectedly rich experience for both filmmakers and film lovers.
Past festival experiences included performances by the THIS IS READING Dancers (featuring performers from Lynn Nottage’s multimedia experience), and jazz pianist Justin Kauflin who performed after screening his award-winning film Keep On Keeping On in 2018. The Art of Film exhibit featured local artists’ take on film on canvas and sculpture. Plus, local eateries pulled out all the stops at VIP receptions, after-parties and gala celebrations.
Says Schott, “This year’s festival is kicking off what will be a year of Celebration of Women in the Arts by a number of arts organizations in Greater Reading. We’re planning something special for festival-goers this year that highlights local and regional women in the arts. Follow us on Facebook for updates. The schedule is going to be incredible!”
Films are presented at the Boscov Theater at GoggleWorks and Reading Movies 11 & IMAX with events presented in unique and historic venues, including WCR Center for the Arts. The ReadingFilmFEST is well attended by enthusiastic and informed audiences. Some post-viewing panels have included local experts weighing in on important topics addressed in the
films. Networking opportunities with filmmakers, distributors, and audiences abound. This year’s panels will feature industry pros discussing international distribution and a discussion of the challenges and opportunities for female filmmakers.
“The venues were gorgeous, the audiences lovely, and the networking and special events well planned in the most creative spaces.”
— Lucas Bell, Live the Stream
In addition to this year’s focus on women filmmakers, ReadingFilmFEST will present narrative and documentary features, short films of all genres, a special block of World View films, LatinX films, and a Made in Reading block to support local filmmakers.
“ Terrific curators, content and community. Every night was a party.”
— Erik Bloomquist, Long Lost
Tickets for ReadingFilmFEST are available through the website. http://readingfilmfest.com
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Melissa Varone for more information at Melissa@ReadingFilmFEST.com. 2
From L to R (Dr. Mindy K. Brudereck, Au.D., Lori Yanos, Patient Care Coordinator and Dr. Nicole Kendig, Au.D.)
Filmmaker Sue Lange (L) and fest volunteer Rachel Degler (R).
Photo credit - Noel Sanjuan
Attention, Women Business Owners:
Do you know what WBENC stands for?
In the fall of 2016, Heidi Masano, Attorney and Managing Partner of Masano Bradley, LLP, attended a program sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bar Association about WBENC Certification, the gold standard of certification review that validates a business is 51 percent owned, controlled, operated, and managed by a woman or women.
Heidi Masano attended the program primarily for the purpose of advancing her own knowledge as she sought to help counsel clients going through the process themselves. But very quickly, she realized WBENC Certification was something she should be considering for her own business.
“We started the process very soon after and achieved certification by the summer of 2017,” Heidi Masano recalls.
IS WBENC CERTIFICATION RIGHT FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
There is no simple answer to this question, but one thing is for certain: if you are running a, or are part of a business that is majority- owned by a woman or women, this is a question you should ask yourself.
WBENC Certification is a designation bestowed by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (www.wbenc.org), the largest certifier of women-owned businesses. The certification
process is stringent, and those who have gone through the process (and those who have abandoned it as well) caution that it is only for companies who are willing to have their financial and operating documents made available for a deep dive review. The Masano Bradley experience is consistent with the typical 6-9 month certification process companies can expect. A thorough document compilation, review and on-site visit will be part of the certification review process, to ensure the applying companies have bona fide female ownership and leadership. It will be important to prove that the women in leadership have authority and key decision-making roles, and are not just designated as company leaders in name only.
Julia Klein is Chairwoman and CEO of C.H. Briggs, a WBENC certified distributor of specialty building materials operating nationwide with its Corporate Office in Reading. Julia Klein says the stringent process, and indeed the annual renewal process, ensures the integrity of the certification process.
WBENC operates nation-wide, and delegates the certification review to approved Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs).
In Pennsylvania, the RPO is Women’s Business Enterprise Center East, or WBEC East (www.wbeceast.org), with offices in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and funded in part in cooperation with the U.S. Small Business Association.
Heidi Masano
Julia Klein
“WBEC East was extremely helpful throughout the process,” says Judi Kane, owner of Rossi Mechanical Services, who first went through the certification process nearly 4 years ago, and recalls it being extremely time intensive and costly, in part because she retained an attorney and outside accountant to help navigate the process, a best practice cited by others who have also gone through the process.
Masano Bradley has counseled several clients successfully through the process. They bring to the table the unique experience of having actually gone through the certification process, and annual renewal, themselves. On the flip side, Heidi Masano points out that going through the WBENC certification process has led the firm to counsel some businesses that the process is probably not right for them, either because the stringent certification requirements will disqualify them, or because there is no compelling business reason to go through the onerous process of certification.
A company wishing to go through the WBENC Certification process needs to understand that one or more key decision-makers are going to have to devote significant time away from their usual duties during the 6-9 month certification process. There will be significant collection of and review of voluminous and sensitive business documents, initial cost, annual cost, and on-site visits (during the initial certification and possibly during later renewals as well).
SO, IS IT WORTH IT?
According to those in the know, it depends.
WBENC Certification gives women-owned businesses the ability to compete for real-time business opportunities provided by WBENC Corporate Members and government agencies. Certified businesses receive notice of Requests for Proposals (RFPs), i.e., solicitations for bidding proposals by various agencies and companies looking for WBENC certified companies to bid.
WBENC certified companies also have opportunities to pair up with non-WBENC certified companies for joint venture arrangements that give them business opportunities they might not have otherwise.
Spotlight on A A A T R AV E L TA LK
Plan your Winter Getaway with A A A Travel and our preferred suppliers, featuring the best resor ts to escape the cold and banish those “ winter blahs”
Sept 25, 2019 5-7pm A A A Reading-Berks 920 Van Reed Road, Wyomissing
A Night in the Caribbean Safari Night
Explore the wonders of Africa with Luxur y Safari Packages. Show is free but space is limited!
October 9, 2019 6PM AAA Reading-Berks, 920 Van Reed Rd, Wyomissing
2020 President’s Tour
Annette Stoltzberg from Tauck will discuss the 2020 President’s Tour to Switzerland, Europe’s Crown Jewel. October 18, 2019 6PM Berkshire Country Club, 1637 Bernville Rd, Reading
Onstage Alaska
Live per formance by Alaska exper ts. Exquisite film footage of Alaska and the Yukon. Useful planning advice. Exclusive travel benefits.
November 10, 2019 2 : 00PM Inn at Reading 1040 Park Road, Wyomissing
Judi Kane points out that she uses her WBENC certification to market to consumers through Rossi Mechanical Services’ website and email communication. She has heard from customers, both residential and commercial, that that certification is a big selling point for them. But businesses considering WBENC certification should not assume that marketing their certification to the lay consumer will be easy or profitable. In fact, WBEC East confirms they do not keep a public directory of WBENC certified businesses. It’s not easy, therefore, for consumers (who are not themselves certified) to find businesses in specific industries that are WBENC certified businesses, so it is more likely that certification benefits will be in the form of access to supplier and procurement executives at government agencies and U.S. corporations, access to enhanced bidding opportunities, and networking and business ventures with other certified companies.
In determining whether the certification process is for your business, Julia Klein suggests asking yourself a threshold question, namely: “Is your target market big corporations who have visible proof of measuring and tracking their diversity spend? If the answer is yes, consider this your green light to explore the process.”
Another benefit to certification is that you can team up with other suppliers (including non-certified businesses) for more opportunities, but you have to make sure you can deliver at capacity and scale to actually benefit from such arrangements.
In sum, WBENC Certification is undeniably the gold standard for certifying bona fide women-owned businesses, but before you submit your business to the rigorous WBENC Certification process, be sure that it’s the right expenditure of time and resources for your business. 2
By Amy Impellizzeri
Oh, S***! What To Do When You Lose Your Wallet
What’s in your wallet? Losing your wallet is a stressful event, and what’s in your wallet is your starting point related to what to do next. In addition to credit cards and cash, your identity is something else that can be stolen. However, by following a few key procedures, you can mitigate the damage.
The following are action steps to help you recover quickly:
1. Think about what’s in your wallet
2. Freeze your accounts
3. Call the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
4. Call your insurance company
5. Make a police report
6. Monitor ALL accounts closely over the next few months
The first step is to think about what’s in your wallet and then call your bank and your credit card companies. Letting them know as soon as you realize your wallet is missing is important in reducing any
fraudulent charges. Canceling credit cards can reduce your credit score, so freeze your accounts instead. This will protect you from any further damage.
Typically, your wallet contains other important information such as your driver’s license and your insurance card. Calling the DMV and insurance companies will flag these cards so if anyone attempts to use them, they will not be able to and you will be alerted. Making a police report is also important because they will be informed if someone is using your license while committing a crime. Taking these five steps will help you to recover as quickly as possible and reduce the amount of damage to your identity overall.
Additionally, keep in mind that it’s not uncommon to have credit cards that offer extra steps for your protection. For example, certain credit card accounts monitor social security numbers on risky websites where identities may be stolen, and they also allow real time account
freezing. This allows you to freeze the account right from your phone, and if you find the cards, turn it right back on.
There are also services that you can pay for that will track your identity 24/7 – it may be the right time to sign up for one of these. Three of the most popular protection services are Life Lock, Identity Force, and Identity Guard. These companies can help to alert you before you even realize your information has been stolen. They can remove your identity information from certain websites, notify you when suspicious activity has taken place, and offer you credit reports from the top three credit bureaus.
Taking preventative measures will help you to avoid having to reclaim your identity and repair the damage that has been made to your accounts. Using preventative measures and being knowledgeable about reactionary methods will also help. 2
By Stephanie Webb for Herbein + Company
Cataracts are very common, particularly as we get older. But successfully treating a cataract requires very specialized skill and experience. Fortunately, some of the best cataract specialists in the region are right here at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania.
cataract specialists
Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania is the leading eye care practice in the region, with experienced specialists in cataract, glaucoma, LASIK, pediatric eye care, retinal care and more. And all our cataract specialists are BoardCertified/Eligible and many are Fellowship-Trained. That’s experience you can trust. When it’s a cataract, don’t take chances. Insist on Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania. Learn more at EyeConsultantsOfPA.com.
Call 610-378-1344 for an appointment.
WOMAN2KNOW
Meet DIANE SHEPLER
KLINGER:
Integrity Services and Solutions
Less than a year ago, Diane Klinger and husband Todd relocated the business they’d begun in 2004, Integrity Services and Solutions, from Leesport to Wyomissing. Integrity specializes in employee benefits, human resource services, and individual insurance. The new offices are on the first floor at 3 Park Plaza, close to the Berkshire Mall and West Reading. Their goal: to become more centrally located, more accessible, and more readily available to the entire community. When Klinger talks about her business, she exudes palpable energy and passion for the many services Integrity can deliver to everyday individuals and professionals, to companies and organizations of all sizes. “We serve a very diverse clientele,” says Klinger. “Our clients include everyone from individuals to small, medium, and large clients, such as school districts and fitness gyms. Our largest client has 600 employees. We have clients who are manufacturers and wholesalers, car dealerships and banks.”
Rightfully proud of how well her business has grown over the past 15 years, but modest about her own influence within the community, Klinger claims, “I don’t necessarily see myself as a leader.” After giving the topic further thought, she clarifies her role: “I do see myself as a team member, as part of the community.”
It’s important, for example, that she, her husband, and the whole Integrity team strive constantly to support local businesses, especially small and medium (non-franchise businesses, primarily), to do well by them.
“I try very hard to support other business owners who are hoping to grow their company,” she says. “And if I utilize the services of someone or some company, and I know that someone else needs assistance in that area, I support them. It keeps a stronger community.”
Klinger goes out of her way to show respect and care for her company’s employees, with a longstanding practice that manifests weekly. She smiles as she shares this: “At least once a week we get lunch for our team, and we also celebrate them on their work anniversaries and birthdays and whatever there is to celebrate.”
The bottom line, she says, is expressing appreciation. “I want everyone to feel valued—our team, our clients, and everyone.”
And being in Wyomissing means that finding good food to celebrate with is extremely convenient.
“The food choices! That’s important.” She admits that from time to time she misses the slower pace, or rather “the laid-back pace” of Leesport, since moving into Wyomissing.
But the move has been good overall, she says, and vital to Integrity’s outreach, since their client base is widespread: “We do serve the larger community—Berks, York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Dauphin.”
Thankful for Mentoring
Two mentors have been invaluable to Klinger, who feels her strength and acumen have been truly affected by the advice and care of other businesspersons.
“I can tell you, the last three and a half years I’ve been working with a woman who is CEO and President of a bank, and I have learned so very much from her.” That person is Lori Maley, of the Bank of Bird-in-Hand.
“She’s a client, actually,” says Klinger. The experience of knowing Maley as not just a client but as a mentor has been life-altering. “It’s been extraordinary,” says Klinger. “When I saw the way she works under that stress load, I was really inspired to do better.”
Klinger also received guidance from someone else. “One other mentor was a man—an epitome of the entrepreneurial spirit. He started a company small and it grew big.” His name was Edwin Yeager, the president of Yeager Supply, Inc.
“He passed away recently, but—before my current mentor, he was my mentor for 28 years. I am blessed.”
A key piece of wisdom that Klinger holds onto is directly related to care and integrity: “I always remember that he’d say, ‘Treat the customer right, and the money will follow.’”
When it comes to being a mentor herself, Klinger admits, “I guess I am one… Ironically, that president of the bank who is my mentor told me that there was an upcoming meeting of professional bankers, and there was a need for a keynote speaker. She said she’d chosen me! I asked, ‘Why?’
“Then she said, ‘Because you inspire me.’ I had shared with her the story of my son’s death and my rising up from the ashes. I talked about that in my speech.” Her son was just 22.
“It’s a challenging task—managing people,” concludes Klinger. “I just try to help.” 2
By Marian Frances Wolbers
Women2Women Community Call Out
Helping Local Nonprofits
If you have been to our monthly events, you might have noticed that every now and then we end our workshop with our Community Call Out. It’s at these times that we offer the floor to anyone in the audience with ‘a need’. We have strived over the past 9 years to create platforms for connections and growth of women, but we also have done this for the community at large, specifically local nonprofits.
In the magazine, we have had the Lend a Hand section which also offers space for a nonprofit to make a call to the community for their needs. We now lovingly call all of our callouts the Community Call Out.
How to Make a Community Call Out
1. Attend monthly Women2Women events for the opportunity to stand in front of the group and make a 2 minute pitch to the audience!
2. Email w2w@greaterreading.org with all basic information of your need. A form will be sent to you asking for more in-depth detail to best promote your organization or ask.
It’s that easy!
Criteria for a Community Call Out
• Cannot be a financial ask
• A quick 1-2-minute pitch about what you are asking for and why
• Serve the good of women in the community (or the good of all in general!)
Past Community Call Out Organizations
- Mary’s Shelter
- Hannah’s Hope
- Safe Berks
- Girls on the Run Berks
- Berks Technical Institute
- Children’s Home of Reading
- The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU)
- Toys for Tots
- Alzheimer’s Association
- My Gut Instinct
Women2Women’s mission is to develop women leaders in Berks County. Giving back to the community, and building up your community, is what truly makes a great leader! We can’t wait to hear your voice and help your organization! 2
HOUSE
Meet Rachael Romig
Director of Women2Women
How did you get involved with Women2Women?
I had attended W2W events personally for networking and development for myself, and absolutely loved the program. It was exactly what I needed in my life, and I knew that it was what other women were looking for as well. I met Karen because I knew she was a mover and shaker so I approached her and got to know her a bit. She extended a spot on the new Youth Summer Reading Committee to me and we were tasked with creating this amazing summer initiative for young kids in Berks. We are getting books in their hands to keep them reading over the summer to help curb the “summer slide” of learning. I love to read, always loved to read as a kid, and quickly took the lead in the committee. Once the program was launched for the first year back in 2017, Karen then offered me a spot on the W2W Programming Committee to help with yearly planning of all events. I wasn’t on the committee a month and the Special Programs Coordinator job opened WITH Karen and she called me and pretty much told me I had to interview for the job. No brainer. I ran there.
As the new Director, what are your goals for the future of Women2Women?
I say all the time, and know, that I have huge shoes to fill now that I have moved into the Director role for Women2Women. Karen Marsdale, one of the founders of W2W and staff member at the GRCA, led the program to where it is now. Almost 10 years ago the program was founded and in 2021 we will be celebrating that anniversary. Karen was and is a powerhouse in Berks County. She has been such an advocate for not only women in the community but for family businesses and PEOPLE. She wants nothing but to see others succeed and for me personally, she offered me exactly that opportunity.
When I started with W2W Karen really let me take my ideas and run with them. It all came so naturally because I believe in the mission of W2W, the women involved and what the program offers. What’s silly is that I was surprised when Karen told me she was retiring and said she’d like me to take over the program. It was “a clear transition” to her and after I processed what she was saying, I guess I saw it too!
The W2W program is led by not only me but a dedicated group of women who volunteer their time to empowering women. We have an excellent groundwork and progress that has been made over the past 9 years and my biggest goal for the program is to continue to expand on what has already been created. The program itself has grown in new ways since I started with the GRCA and that is due to technological updates for the program (new website + excellent use of social media) as well as updates to enewsletters and outreach to new groups of women in the community.
Tell us about your passions!
Oh boy, here we go. If you’ve never met me you don’t know how excited I can get when I’m talking so I’ll try not to overload all readers here.
Women2Women – This organization is such an important piece of women’s lives. I stand in front of, aside of and behind everything it stands for because I see how it helps women. It’s not just a group that gets together for networking, it is a true professional development group that offers networking, sure, but it educates. There are so many positives and negatives happening for women in the workplace, and in the world, right now (as has been happening over time) and empowering women to be their best selves and advocate for themselves and others is crucial. I was raised by one hell of a woman, and she always let me blaze my own trail. I was always told I could do and be anything I wanted if I worked hard and was kind, and I share those same ideas with others. Now, with the addition of W2W in my life I can also lead women to this amazing organization and build THEM up to be their best. That’s the entire mission of W2W; to develop the next leaders and the word ‘leader’ means something different to everyone.
Just Breathe – I absolutely love event and wedding planning. When I accepted the role into the W2W organization back in Dec. 2017 I also launched my own event and wedding planning business called Just Breathe. Weddings & Events. Little did I know so many amazing things would happen in that month. Overload? Oh yeah. But I made it work. In the past two years I have grown the company 200% and already have a part time assistant who is taking on more day-of wedding coordination duties in 2020 as part of my growth strategy. It’s amazing to help women & men take what’s in their heads as far as vision and ideas and literally make it happen. It’s a lot of work and a lot of weekends, but it’s totally worth it.
I say all the time that ‘there is never enough time’. I think we all say that right, just in general? But when I say it I mean – we only have so much time on this planet and you have the choice to do good, do bad, or coast along. Now, I know I’ve done my share
of bad, so I’m no saint, but I definitely have CHOSEN to do good for the rest of my life. And good to me is helping others, feeling fulfilled, helping my husband, mom, brother, family and friends feel fulfilled, lifting up my coworkers, petting all the puppies and hugging all the kittens no matter if they like it or not, and overall choosing happiness. I have bad days, and I have been known to leave a rude note on a car or two when I can’t get in my driver’s side door, but I choose happy. Always. That’s why you probably hear me laughing all the time.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of and why?
I have never felt so accomplished in my life as I do today, and that comes from so many different aspects of my life and people who got me here. Women2Women, Just Breathe., being a soon-to-be new mom…I can’t believe that I am where I am and with a smile.
I turned my life around when I met my husband and he really helped me through a bad time in my life. Less than ten years ago I was heading back to school after officially becoming a drop out, finally happy enough with myself to stop indulging in recreational activities that were NOT good for me mentally and physically, and I finally had the courage to see a therapist about things that had happened to me in the past.
I never wanted to be perceived as weak by anyone; I was always the person that was the strongest, would stand up for you, be the voice, etc., and I suppressed a lot of negative thoughts, self doubt and overall sadness about past events that followed me everywhere I went. It was when Zach and I decided we wanted to start a family that I realized I needed to deal with what was happening inside so that I could be the best mother and partner. I can honestly say that I’m one of the many in the world who was deeply impacted by therapy. Mental health is no joke, people!
I’m really proud of myself for having the strength to figure that out, but I can’t take the credit because I had such an amazing support system who didn’t give up on me.
For you out there who isn’t sure where to start, I’ll be your support. I’m weird, honest, make dumb jokes, and listen. And I guess I’m totally okay with that. 2
Rachael Romig and Karen Marsdale
ON THE CALENDAR
WOMEN IN MEDICINE –WHO DEFINES US? ADVOCATING FOR YOURSELF & STEPPING UP
A Panel Discussion with the Founders of All About Women, Tower Health Medical Group
Date: November 6, 2019
Time: 8:00-9:30am
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Reading
Cost: $25/person (includes breakfast)
Join Doctors Kristine Leaman, Holly Metzgar, Jaylaine Ghoubrial, Christina DeAngelis, and Melissa DuBois for a conversation around how they found themselves creating the mission behind All About Women and how it changed the view of healthcare for women (including their individual experiences getting to where they are today).
All About Women is an OB/GYN practice consisting entirely of all female providers and office staff who are dedicated to serving the women of Berks County. They take a personal interest in the patients’ individual concerns about general health, and obstetric and gynecological care. Just like their patients, All About Women providers are mothers, daughters, sisters, wives, and friends. That personal insight gives them a unique approach to treating patients and providing the best in women’s healthcare.
MEET GREATER READING: CONNECT & SERVE
Date: November 7, 2019
Time: 5:00-7:00pm
Location: RKL
“Lean in” and learn about board seat and committee opportunities available in our community! Women2Women has partnered with Leadership Berks, the Leadership Berks Alumni Board and the Greater Reading Young Professionals to better connect local nonprofits with women (and men!) in the community looking to make a difference!
CULTURAL
AWARENESS IN THE WORKPLACE
A Panel Discussion with Committee Members of De Mujer a Mujer
Date: November 14, 2019
Time: 5:30-7:00pm
Location: Crowne Plaza Reading
Cost: $5/person (includes admission to Caliente)
Diversity and inclusion are terms often used when discussing company cultures, but do you understand why? De Mujer a Mujer committee members Amanda Hand and Raquel Lopez will discuss what it means to be culturally aware in your workplace and will share experiences they have witnessed and experienced in the workplace, both good and bad, and how you can advocate not only for yourself but be an ally to others.
This event is part of our De Mujer a Mujer programming
LET’S DO THIS!
HOW TO EFFECTIVELY SET GOALS THAT YOU ACTUALLY REACH
Sharon Mast, OwnerSpark Solutions & Support
Date: December 11, 2019
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm
Location: Inn at Reading
Cost: $25/person (includes lunch))
Knowing isn’t doing! I would often say, “I should get partial credit for all the ‘intentions’ I have toward reaching my goals,” but until I broke them down into daily do’s, they stayed “intentions.” Join us for a fun, interactive session that will help you get your goals out of your head and make them happen by using a simple step by step approach that is manageable and doable, and watch what happens to your life!
Sharon Mast loves to bring out the best in people and businesses. Whether designing a workshop or training, facilitating a work group or providing personal or professional coaching, she takes people from insight to influence in a fun and challenging way.
Sharon Mast
BUILDING
CONFIDENCE & SELLING YOURSELF
East Penn ManufacturingWomen in Leadership
Date: December 12, 2019
Time: 5:30-7:00pm
Location: Crowne Plaza Reading
Cost: $5/person (includes admission to Caliente)
Join Brenda Rosado, Employee Relations, and Alison Snyder, VP of Personnel at East Penn Manufacturing, as they share tips on building your confidence to be your best self, advocate for yourself and ultimately sell yourself and skill set! Leave the session empowered to take on something new that you’ve been wanting to try!
This event is part of our De Mujer a Mujer programming
2
Brenda Rosado Alison Snyder
First Annual De Mujer a Mujer Awards Ceremony Celebrating Amazing Women!
As a celebration of 5 years of impact to the Latino community, De Mujer a Mujer and Women2Women’s Latina Initiatives hosted the first annual De Mujer a Mujer Awards Ceremony to end the program year! After receiving numerous nominations for women in the community, our panel of community judges selected three women to be recognized, and we couldn’t be more proud of each one!
The evening kicked off with appetizers, drinks and great networking and was followed by the awards ceremony. We always love seeing groups come together to meet each other, and each award recipient brought their entourage of those close to them, those who inspire them and those who have supported them!
Community Impact Award –ALNEASA JORDAN
This recipient is a Latina woman who has shown leadership and commitment to the community in Reading and Berks County. Alneasa Jordan is the Community People and Culture Manager/ Director of Human Resources at DoubleTree by Hilton Reading and she shared that she is “living her dream job”! Let’s all strive for that! Over the past few years Alneasa has been awarded in many ways for her contributions to her workplace and overall community including the 2019 CEO Light and Warmth. This prestigious award recognizes three Team Members who go above and beyond to make Hilton the most hospitable company in the world – and a great place to work for all. Alneasa was also a 40 Under 40 in 2018 honored by the Reading Eagle.
Young Latina Award –GENESIS MUNOZ
2019 Recipients: Lourdes Peralta, Alneasa Jordan, and Genesis Munoz
Justice Major at Penn State Berks. Her nominator shared that Genesis is “a rising sophomore at Penn State Berks and has already learned how to take full advantage of campus resources, works various jobs (on and off-campus), and has volunteered to go back to Reading High many times to inspire current students to pursue their passions. She is a hidden gem who I want to elevate and help shine brighter in our community!” We totally agree!
Small Business Owner Award – LOURDES PERALTA
This recipient is a young Latina woman between the ages of 18-25 who has shown leadership, dedication and commitment to the community. This young woman shows great potential to be, or is, one of the next women leaders of Berks County. Genesis is currently a Restaurant Server at Mi Casa Su Casa and Criminal
This recipient is the owner of a Latina owned business who is thriving and engaging in the community. The business can be headquartered anywhere in the Greater Reading/Berks County region. Lourdes Peralta is owner and florist of Sarai Flower Variety Flower Shop since 2015 in the City of Reading, Pa. Lourdes has been a florist for over 25 years, owning her own flower shop in New York City before moving to Berks County. She is selftaught and upon coming to Reading she sought an opportunity to continue working on her passion and provide a service that was lacking for the Hispanic Community and especially women. Lourdes donates florals at every De Mujer a Mujer and leaves women with something beautiful to take home. We can’t thank her enough! 2
Congratulations ladies!
LATINO LIFE
IHispanic Heritage Month
Sept. 15th through Oct. 15th
love Hispanic Heritage month because I’m reminded that it is ok and healthy to celebrate my ancestors, roots and my culture. Some people say that no given day or month should be allotted and that we should celebrate it all year round. While that is true I feel we all have busy lives and these special celebrations give you a great boost of motivation, create positive thinking and unite the communities.
I wish all the women that struggled in the past could be here to witness where we are today. Even though we are still not completely there yet, thirty or fifty years ago you would not see many women being business owners. I’m proud to look around Berks County and see the number of businesses that are being opened, bought and ran by women, and when I count the growing amount of Latina women, it makes me even more proud. I will even go as far as to say Latina women are extra hungry for success. I state this because literally, they are women coming from different countries or places such as Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Colombia not knowing any English or the customs here and they are opening a business as if they had no fear because they arrived in the land of opportunities. They leave all they have in their countries, to start a new life here, most come because they want a better future for their children and themselves. Sadly most have to deal with some bitter people who were born in this country that will criticize that they don’t speak the language, or that they should go back home. I think these people are uncomfortable because they themselves were born in this land of opportunities but were never hungry enough to grab life by the horns.
Women, I congratulate you for fighting for your rights, and your families. For this month I especially congratulate all my hardworking Latina women. Don’t be ashamed to speak your broken English because once you learn that second language you will have even better opportunities. Keep educating yourself but don’t forget to honor where you came from and maintain our culture alive by celebrating it and teaching your kids and neighbors that where there is diversity, there is real life. 2
By Rosa Julia Parra, CEO, Palo Magazine
Let your fashionista spirit run free at Goodwill! Find specialty brands at affordable prices: Clothing. Shoes. Jewelry. Handbags. And Much More. on a Be Fearless Budget
Donate. Shop. Create Jobs. Change Lives.
HEALTH2WELLNESS
DNo Apology Necessary
o you find yourself apologizing at work or in life for things that don’t even merit an apology?
According to the Child Mind Institute, apologizing too much often begins with roots from our childhood. Girls (and boys) are taught that being nice can show respect, which can equal being more likeable. Not surprisingly, another study from the University of Waterloo, Canada found that women specifically apologize more because they have a lower threshold than men for what they consider offensive.
WHEN SAYING SORRY BACKFIRES
According to Tara Swart, neuroscientist and author of the book
The Source: Open Your Mind, Change Your Life, “Apologizing when we have done something wrong is a real strength, but compulsive apologizing presents as a weakness at work and in personal relationships.”
For example: saying sorry to avoid conflict, bumping into someone in the hallway without fault, beginning sentences with “sorry, but….”; or if apologizing has just become a reflex–is when it can hurt your self-esteem and career. Let’s look at what over apologizing can do, according to Forbes:
Show Powerlessness
If you are the only one apologizing, it can signify an imbalance in power. It’s important to note that this is where women face a gender bias: female executives who apologize too much may be taken as too timid and passed over for promotions, but if they are direct, they may be criticized for being aggressive.
Portray Insecurity
Apologizing before speaking at a meeting (“I’m sorry but what about”….), or when popping into your boss’s office for a scheduled meeting time (“I’m sorry to interrupt, but are you ready for our meeting?”), can display a lack of confidence in the meeting, or to your boss, respectively.
Show Insincerity
Unwarranted apologies can come off as disingenuous. This case can specifically come into play when apologizing becomes more of a habit than necessary.
Show a Need for External Validation
Think about if your apology is subconsciously a way to seek reassurance. When you say “I’m sorry about that presentation,” are you hoping your co-worker will tell you there is nothing to apologize for, and that you did a great job on that presentation?
Compromise your professional values
Know what you stand for and be proud of it. Over apologizers tend to focus on others’ perceptions of what is right and wrong instead of their own.
WHAT TO SAY INSTEAD
Most of the time, there really is no apology necessary. Here are some examples of what you can say instead of I’m Sorry.
Thank You
If you have been delayed with an email or setting an appointment, skip the excuses. Instead of starting the email or project update with “Sorry for the delay,” replace that line with “Thank you for your patience.”
Interruptions
Instead of beginning a statement in a meeting with “I’m sorry, but…”, simply speak your mind during a pause in the conversation. Instead of apologizing for knocking on your boss’s door with a question, try “Is now a good time?”
Diffusing Conflict
When sharing different opinions, you often hear “Sorry, but I don’t agree.” Try a practical approach and say “Let’s try to look at this from another angle.”
Constructive Feedback
Over apologizing can often relate to wanting validation. What better way to build self-esteem than to get feedback? Instead of “I’m sorry about that presentation,” how about “Can you provide feedback on how I can do this differently next time?”
Practicing self-awareness, changing your vocabulary, and being confident and intentional is the first step towards breaking this habit. For over apologizers (like me), this is not going to be an easy task. But I plan on working towards showing appreciation instead of apologies. Will you join me? #Sorrynotsorry 2
Patient, Heal Thyself: How to Be Your Own Health Advocate
Many of us become worried or intimated when we visit our physician. The latest studies show time spent with a provider in the office is under 10 minutes (the average is 7 minutes). How do you possibly cover everything you want to know in that amount of time? In order for your physician to best assist you, being prepared for a thorough exchange of information is crucial. Many providers are tightly regulated in the time they can spend with each patient and must limit topics discussed. As much as they would like to, very few providers can spend as much time with you as they would like. They entered their profession because they care about people and want to make them better. This is why it is so important for you to be your own health advocate.
Health Literacy was defined by Healthy People 2020 as “The degree to which an individual has the capacity to obtain, communicate, process, and understand basic health information and services to make appropriate health decisions.” In today’s world patients understand they play an important role in their health care. Health literacy is important so you are able to make a more informed decision about your health; prevent relapses; better health outcomes; fewer complications; clear and better communication with your medical provider.
Steps to Be a Health Advocate: Understand Your Own Health
Your doctor is an expert on medical care, but you are the expert on yourself. It’s your body and no matter how amazing your provider is, they have a bunch of bodies they will see every day and you have only one. So don’t be afraid to get involved in your own care. You know your body better than anyone else.
PREPARING TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR –DO YOUR HOMEWORK/RESEARCH
KEEP PERSONAL MEDICAL RECORDS
Try to record your family medical history. Genetics and hereditary in disease play a large role in your health. Keep a health care journal. Keep track of important dates, tests, and procedures.
UNDERSTAND AND FOLLOW YOUR TREATMENT PLAN
Providers can be required to see more patients and spend less time with each one. Being well-prepared for your appointment can maximize the time you have with your provider. Being informed and having information at the ready means that you can expedite the diagnostic process and give them the maximum time possible to practice their healing. Don’t relinquish the opportunity to find out exactly what is wrong with you. This doesn’t mean you should challenge your provider. If you feel the need to inform your doctor about something you saw online, you aren’t being confrontational, and most doctors are now used to well-informed patients.
ASK QUESTIONS
Listen carefully to what your provider says. Never hesitate to ask for clarification during a medical conversation. Trusting your provider is important, and you need to ask questions so you can understand the details of your diagnosis and symptoms. Most health systems have a medical record system that allows you to ask questions via a patient portal and your provider (or their designee) will respond in a timely manner. This is a great way to have some concerns answered without always needing an appointment. If you aren’t comfortable or getting the results you want you can hire an advocate to help you navigate the system. The advocate is basically someone who represents the patient’s best interests in any medical situation.
BUILD A RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR PROVIDER
Find a primary care provider who fits your needs. Someone you’re comfortable speaking with and who is comfortable speaking with you. Research your provider. Start with looking up providers in your insurance network. There is nothing wrong with checking out the practice web-site and review sites. You can also call the provider’s office and ask any specific questions you may want to know about the provider’s background or specialty. Let the provider know that you want to be a partner in your health care and share your expectations.
Take all medications exactly as prescribed. Use home medical equipment and supplies only as instructed. Ask questions about any instructions that are confusing or unclear. Report anything unusual to your provider.
Continued on page 30
We offer superior care and results for patients when compared to nursing homes. Research* tells the story. Connect with a higher level of care at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Reading. *Dobson | DaVanzo analysis of research identifiable 20% sample of Medicare beneficiaries, 2005-2009
BRING A FRIEND
Ideally your appointment is a conversation between two experts: you are the expert of your body and the doctor is the expert in the medical information. Sometimes the conversation about your body becomes difficult and it is helpful to have family or a close friend at the appointment to keep you focused and an extra set of ears to hear what is being said.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR HEALTH CARE COVERAGE
Many American’s don’t understand the basics of their health insurance coverage, and understandable so – health insurance is complicated! Knowing what your insurance does and doesn’t cover and any special steps needed for a procedure to be covered can help you navigate the health care system and avoid costly and unexpected medical bills. Call your insurance company and ask questions. Always document phone conversations you have with your insurer. Medical bills are also concerning as they are difficult to decipher. Always check your bill and ask questions or clarification if you have concerns.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE PREVENTATIVE CARE UNDER THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT.
The complex health care system that exists today will not be fixed tomorrow. You don’t need to feel intimidated by your medical providers. They work for you, not the other way around. And when the common ground in these relationships is your health, it’s in your best interest to be as empowered as possible.
2
By: Monica Rush, MSHA, MSN, RN, CHWC Director Rehabilitation Services and Sports Medicine
Certified Health and Wellness Coach
Being Your Own HEALTH ADVOCATE
DO
• Be involved in your own care.
• Inform the doctor and nurses that you like to be involved.
• Ask for extra information when you need it.
• Ask for a questionable event, like a pill you aren’t sure is the right one, to be checked with the doctor.
• Tell somebody if you have gone out of your comfort zone.
• Remain polite in all of the above.
• Praise the doctor and nurses when it’s called for. A show of gratitude doesn’t go amiss.
DON’T
• Don’t act hostile, suspicious, or demanding.
• Don’t challenge the competency of doctors and nurses.
• Don’t nag or whine, no matter how anxious you are. Reserve these feelings for someone in your family, a friend, or a member of a support group.
• Don’t pretend you know as much (or more) than the people who are treating you.
• Don’t, when hospitalized, repeatedly press the call button or run to the nurses’ station. Trust their routine. Realize that the main reason patients call a nurse is more out of anxiety than out of real need.
• Don’t play the part of a victim. Show your caregivers that you are maintaining a normal sense of security, control, and good cheer even under trying circumstances.
• Probably the most important finding about medical mistakes is that they are frequently caused by lack of communication.
Cooking Convenience:
The New Darlings of Small
Kitchen Appliances
Every few years a new small kitchen appliance emerges to compete for counter space with the other gadgets promising to make meal prep easier and faster. The instant pot, air fryer and sous vide cooker are among the latest to enter the playing field.
When Amazon held its Prime Day extravaganza in July, Amazon devices including the Echo Dot smart speaker and Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote were among the big sellers. Tucked among the Amazon devices were more surprising top 10 sellers including the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter, 23andMe Health + Ancestry kits, and the Instant Pot Duo60.
INSTANT POT
Amazon sold over 300,000 Instant Pots on Prime Day in 2018 and even more this year. What makes the Instant Pot so special? It’s a 7-in-1 multi-use pressure cooker that also functions as a slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté, yogurt maker, and food warmer. According to DigitalTrends. com, there are 14 built-in Smart Programs that use one-touch buttons on the Duo60’s control panel including temperature, time, and pressure levels settings for cooking soup, meat or stew, beans or chili, poultry, sauté or simmering, rice, multi-grain, porridge, steaming, slow cooking,
warming, yogurt making, and conventional pressure cooking. The best-selling model retails for $99.95 on Amazon, but is frequently on sale for $59.99 or less.
If you bought an Instant Pot during the Prime Day frenzy, but haven’t taken it out of the box yet, there are a few ways to get started. One is to follow someone’s example. Instant Pot has a YouTube channel with hundreds of recipes to try. https://www. youtube.com/user/TheInstantpot
If you want to plunge ahead without the video tutorials, Epicurious.com features these starter recipes:
1. Boiled eggs – Pour a cup of water into the Instant Pot and place a steamer basket or trivet into the pot. Gently place up
Continued on page 32
About the Instant Pot
Instant Brands Inc. was founded in 2009 by a team of Canadian technology veterans who set out to explore the food preparation category based on their own personal life experiences. Their objective was to find solutions that would enable busy families and professionals to prepare quality food in less time, promote better eating and reduce the consumption of fast food.
In late 2010, after eighteen months of research, design and development they introduced the Instant Pot® CSG MultiUse Programmable Pressure Cooker. Each subsequent Instant Pot® product introduction has raised the bar on functionality, user-friendliness and safety. In 2012 the company launched the Instant Pot® Lux 6-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, 6 quart – which was the most advanced pressure cooker available on the market at the time.
In 2014 Instant Brands Inc. followed up with the Instant Pot® Smart Bluetooth, equipped with microprocessors and Bluetooth® technology that wirelessly connects, allowing users to program and monitor their cooking from mobile devices via an iOS or Android app. This advancement was a first in the electric pressure cooker category and marked the beginning of a new smart-cooking era.
Source: Instantpot.com
to 12 eggs into the basket or on top of the trivet. Secure the lid and set the pressure release to “Sealing.” Select the Manual setting and set the cooking time for 5 minutes at high pressure. Since the eggs aren’t boiled, but steamed under pressure, the membrane separates from the shell making them easier to peel.
2. Oatmeal – Though it’s not a faster way to cook steel-cut oatmeal since it takes time for the pot to come up to pressure, it’s more hands-off since you don’t have to watch for boil-overs. It also allows for making large batches that can be refrigerated and doled out each morning.
3. Beans – Pressure cooking beans takes half the time of cooking them on a stovetop. The beans don’t have to be soaked in advance. An added bonus is using the sauté button to mash the beans in the pot and turn them into refried beans in just a few minutes.
4. Meats – Meats that typically require par-boiling can be cooked directly in the Instant Pot making it faster and helping retain their flavor. Chili can be made in 30 minutes and the high pressure gives it a depth of flavor that usually requires overnight rest.
5. Vegetables – Sweet potatoes, baked potatoes and a whole squash take a mere 15 minutes.
6. Risotto, pasta or polenta – Rather than standing at the stove stirring away, you can make a creamy risotto or polenta using the machine’s sauté function to brown any vegetables before adding the grains and liquid, and letting the machine do all the work.
AIR FRYER
Maybe you’ve seen an infomercial or come across them on QVC. What is an air fryer and do you need one? According to Meredith Laurence, also known as The Blue Jean Chef, an air fryer is a compact cylindrical countertop convection oven that uses super-heated air to cook foods, giving results very similar to deep-frying or high-temperature roasting. Air fryers pre-heat in two to three minutes and foods can be prepared about 20 percent faster than in a traditional oven.
One of the differences between the air-fryer and using a traditional convection oven is that the food sits in a perforated basket and the blowing air is in a more compact space, allowing food to cook faster, with a dark crispy exterior and moist interior. Unlike deep frying, foods require a mere spritz of oil rather than being immersed and there’s no greasy smoke.
Air fryers are easy to operate with pre-set modes like French fries; chicken drumsticks; fish; and chop/cutlet that take the guesswork out of the cooking time. You can also manually set the
temperature and time. Besides meal prep, they’re great for toasting nuts; making croutons; and reheating leftovers.
When cool, the cooking basket can be hand washed or popped into the dishwasher for easy cleanup.
SOUS VIDE
A cooking technique that has been gaining popularity among home cooks is sous vide. Often featured on network food competition shows, sous vide means “under vacuum” in French. Sous vide typically requires two pieces of equipment – a vacuum sealing machine (or heavy-duty zipper-lock freezer bags) and a sous vide immersion circulator.
You take the item you want to cook, seal it in an airtight bag with seasonings, and then cook it by submerging the bag in a temperature-controlled water bath. The immersion circulator clamps to the side of the pot and is set to the desired temperature. It’s essentially poaching under precise conditions.
There are numerous benefits to sous vide cooking. The prep work can be done in advance by bagging and sealing the items and then refrigerating or freezing until ready to use. It requires little additional fat for cooking since the protein cooks in its own juices, leaving it moist and tender, with none of its juices seeping out. You get consistent results since the food is cooked through to the exact temperature you desire.
Although the advance prep work saves time, the sous vide cooking time takes a bit longer than traditional cooking methods. On the plus side, you don’t have to hover over your stove and can use the found time for other activities. 2
By: Karen Klein,Fulcrum Information Resources kklein@fulcrum-info.com
| 610 927-1701
In a recent Women2Women social media poll, these items were voted as the most popular and useful tools in getting a quick meal on the table. (Of course, there were a few who suggested the telephone!)
1. Instant Pot (tie)
Slow Cooker (tie)
Air Fryer
Grill
FAMILY-OWNED,
Family-involved
These four words characterize the Leader family’s role in the senior living profession for more than 55 years. Last year, the third generation of our family in the person of Meredith Janeczek Mills, granddaughter of Country Meadows founders George M. and Mary Jane Leader, took on a senior leadership position in the company—chief operating officer. Meredith is one of nine members of the Leader and Janeczek families employed by Country Meadows. Five of the nine are in the third generation. Collectively the nine of us have more than 150 years of experience in healthcare. I like to say the profession is imbedded in our family genes.
So, you might say, “What’s the big deal? ” The deal is about quality and experience. My father used to say, “You pay a lot more attention to what’s happening and work harder when your name is attached to the business.” And, I might add, because we love what we do.
We understand the critical success factors in senior living and know when something is missing. Unlike providers whose corporate leadership is headquartered in another state or even on the West Coast, our family lives and works in central Pennsylvania. We can drive to every campus easily. Family members either work full-time
On behalf of the Leader-Janeczek family, we hope we have the opportunity to serve your family
The Leader-Janeczek family
Have you or a family member recently received a serious medical diagnosis? If so, many physicians offer this advice: seek a second opinion before deciding on your treatment plan.
It is common to seek a second opinion, even if you fully trust your physician. Second opinions can confirm the first opinion, add more detail to that first opinion, or perhaps contradict the first opinion and provide more options for you to consider.
“Doctors are not offended by patients who seek a second opinion, and in fact, they are quite grateful for the advice of the secondopinion physician,” says Erik J. Rupard, MD, Chief, Section of Hematology and Oncology at McGlinn Cancer Institute at Reading Hospital. “We also want our patients to be educated on available options, so they can be an active participant in their healthcare decisions and be comfortable with the decision they make.”
Dr. Rupard points out that Reading Hospital has a ‘parallel opinion’ program in which patients see a Reading Hospital oncologist as well as an oncologist at a tertiary center such as Fox Chase Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, or Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Seeking a Second Opinion HEALTH2WELLNESS
that case, a third opinion may be necessary to help you decide what treatment option is best.
What is the best way to proceed? For starters, after receiving your diagnosis, it is important to spend time with the first physician to ensure you understand the diagnosis and the recommendations for treatment. Then, if you decide to seek a second opinion, it is important to find a facility and physician with a strong reputation.
“We then communicate with the oncologists at the tertiary center and collaboratively develop a treatment plan for the patient to receive treatment and care right here at Reading Hospital,” he says.
Second opinions allow patients to gather more information and to obtain more than one perspective about an approach to their diagnosis and treatment. A second opinion can help a patient feel more confident about the first opinion, or it can prompt them to reconsider the recommendations of the first opinion.
“Both situations can be very helpful to a patient in ascertaining exactly what treatment is best for them,” Dr. Rupard says. In rare cases, a second opinion may contradict the first opinion. In
After you or your family member receives the second opinion, that physician will send files from your visit to your first physician. Today, many hospitals’ electronic systems are connected, so in many cases, no files need to be sent; permission just needs to be granted to access the patient’s files from another institution. Typically, the second-opinion doctor will reach out to the first-opinion doctor and discuss the case, preferably face-toface or by telephone.
“I do it every day,” Dr. Rupard says of seeking second opinions. “Sometimes I reach out for a second opinion without the patient having to go physically to the second-opinion physician. At the Reading Hospital, we are working on a program whereby patients will be able to receive a second opinion through telemedicine without having to travel at all.”
Health insurance companies usually cover the cost of a second opinion, although the insurance company may determine exactly where the patient needs to go for a second opinion. Generally, office visits are not the expensive part of medical care, and Dr. Rupard has had many patients pay out-of-pocket for a second opinion from a provider who was not covered by their insurance.
“The most important point is that patients feel comfortable and that they receive the best care possible,” Dr. Rupard says. “After practicing medicine for more than 20 years I always support patients getting a second opinion, so they are comfortable with the treatment plan and confirm the quality of care they will receive.” 2
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