June/July 2010 Her Omaha Magazine

Celebrating, empowering, inspiring... the Women of Omaha.

Her Family Enriching a Gifted Child

Health Focus

Cancer Survivors’ Stories

Home D.I.Y.

“Junk” Design Tips

Designing

Woman

June/July 2010 • www.heromaha.com

Architect Sheila Elijah-Barnwell is Leading the Way in Healthcare Design

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or leading the way in maternity care,

only one hospital delivers.

Generations of families have known Methodist as the place to have a baby.

Now, the area leader in comprehensive birth services is creating a new legacy in women’s health with the opening of Methodist Women’s Hospital.

We know it’s about giving you our full attention. An advanced communications system that gets you assistance the moment you need it. Areas designed so staff can be highly efficient and react quickly. And all the care you deserve from Methodist Magnet-certified nurses, the gold standard of nursing care.

We know it takes a team that’s above and beyond in expertise. Our team is prepared to handle any unexpected situations because every birth services nurse has advanced training and certifications specific to maternity care. Thanks to wireless fetal monitoring, we always track your baby’s well-being during labor. And should your baby need special attention after delivery, our Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides the highest level of NICU care in West Omaha.

We know it’s about comfort for you and your family. Rooms created with the perfect ambience. Special accommodations that allow C-section moms and their babies to recover side-by-side in the same room. And ample room for family and friends so they can share in your joy during this truly special time.

In comfort, in care, in security, we’re the name that’s raising the standard in birth services. And the name chosen by more moms-to-be than any other metroarea hospital. Our Methodist Women’s Hospital will arrive right on schedule in June. To begin your Methodist birth plan or to get more information, please visit methodistforwomen.org.

Ex p lore th e d eta ils: methodistforwomen.org

Proud to be a member of

Opens in June

devoted to helping women lead healthier lives.

©2010 Methodist Women’s Hospital, an affiliate of Methodist Health System

June/July 2010, Volume 9 / Issue 3

inTHISissue

June/July 2010 Cover Story .................................. 8 Architect Sheila Elijah-Barnwell

Celebrating, Empowering, Inspiring... the Women of Omaha. published by

omaha magazine, ltd publisher

todd lemke editor

sandy lemke assistant editor

linda persigehl art director/graphic design

matt jensen graphic design

john gawley photography by

minorwhite studios (bill sitzmann & scott drickey) contributors

suzanne smith arney susan meyers • judy gilliard heather heier lane • jamie white ywca • girl scouts account executives

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(402) 884-2000 Send $9.95 for a one-year subscription (six issues) to P.O. Box 461208, Papillion, NE 68046-1208. www.heromaha.com Comments? Story Ideas?

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Let us know and we may share her story with the Her community of women. Her is your magazine; for the women of Metropolitan Omaha.

Feature ...................... 12 Summers Off — No Way! Editor’s Letter .................................. 4 Summer Refreshment Home DIY ......................................... 6 “Junk” Redux Deluxe Editor’s Picks .............................................................. 7 Hot Items to Get or Gift Her Family ................................................................ 14 Enriching a Gifted Child She’s Creative ................................ 16 Judy Greff Beauty Sheet .................................. 18 Smooth Surfing: Beauty Websites Fashion Faux Pas ...................................................... 19 Sneakers with Skirts Equals Fashion Misstep Health Extra .............................................................. 20 A Mole is Just a Mole, or Is It? Health Focus .................................. 21 Surviving Cancer For Her ........................................... 26 Business Profiles A Letter from the Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska ... 28 Leaving Things Better Than We Found Them A Letter from YWCA Omaha ......... 29 Workforce Readiness Food With Flair ............................. 30 From the Sea

Now : check out heR MagaziNe oNliNe. usiNg Owned and managed by Omaha Magazine, LTD Her Magazine is published bi-monthly by Omaha Magazine, LTD, P.O. Box 461208, Omaha, NE 68046. No whole or part of the contents herein may be reproduced without prior written permission of Omaha Magazine, LTD, excepting individually copyrighted articles and photographs. Unsolicited manuscripts are accepted, however no responsibility will be assumed for such solicitations.

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EDITOR’Sletter

EDITOR SANDY LEMKE

Dear Readers, Welcome to the Summer edition of HER Omaha Magazine. We refreshed our logo and departments – hope you enjoy the changes!

All the while staying true to our mission of celebrating, empowering and inspiring the women of Omaha.

We celebrate the new Methodist Health Systems’ Women’s Hospital by bringing you the story of Sheila Elijah-Barnwell, PhD, AIA, lead architect on the project. Elijah-Barnwell is a role model for other female architects to follow and you can read her story, by Molly Garriott, on page 8. The hospital is slotted to open June 21.

Papillion homemaker Julie Sudbeck has a stylishly furnished home decorated with what she calls “junk” – she abhors the word antique. Call it retro; call it vintage, we call it well put-together.

Read Home DIY on page 6 for insider tips, including photos of Sudbeck’s beautiful home.

Also in this issue, Assistant Editor Linda Persigehl talks to educators about Enriching a Gifted Child. Identifying gifted children is more than high scores on standardized tests, says Mary Boden Anderson, head of the Montessori Children’s Room in Omaha. Read more about this on page 14.

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One of our “refreshments” is Editors Picks. If you have any ideas for this section, which comprises Hot Items to Get or Gift, please send me an email at editor@ omahapublications.com. I like them to, though they don’t have to be, sourced from or related to the Omaha area. See the original installment of Editor’s Picks on page 7.

Suzanne Smith Arney continues her outstanding articles on Omaha-area female artists with a profile on painter Judy Greff on page 16. Greff is a breast cancer survivor who says art has “taught her how to see.”

Hope you’re taking some time to enjoy the summer. Don’t forget Father’s Day on June 20. Thank you for reading!

Enjoy!

Sandy Lemke Editor

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HOMEd.i.y.

“Junk” Redux Deluxe Junk Redux Deluxe: it’s a look more personal than Pottery Barn, more rustic than Restoration Hardware. A hot trend in home decorating is incorporating “junk” vintage finds with style and flair.

Lorrie Williams, president of Fluff Your Stuff Interior Design, says this trend is a “great way to ensure that ‘gathered over time’ look that gives a room timeless character.” Similar to the shabby chic look, this update requires patience and time. Some items are displayed or repurposed as is, and some need a bit (or a lot) of refurbishing.

Searching for new pieces can even turn into a fun hobby.

“I always get asked where I buy my pieces…I get them everywhere!” said Julie Sudbeck, of her collection of vintage items artfully displayed throughout her airy Papillion home. Her favorite finds include sturdy suitcases with Bakelite handles, industrial tables and Pepsi crates. Sudbeck’s camera collection is extensive. Among her items with a local connection: a crate from the old Orsi Bakery.

6 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

Sudbeck visits eBay, estate sales, thrift stores, salvage yards, Habitat for Humanity ReStore and Kraft DC. She found her Pepsi crates at thrift stores for $5, and then saw the same ones selling at Pottery Barn for $15. Although her hobby can be a way to both buck boutique markup and recycle, “it has gotten more expensive over the years as this has gotten more popular.” Sudbeck visited the “Junk Bonanza” last year in Shakopee, Minnesota. The event is billed as the “best junk bonanza in the Midwest” and hosts more than one hundred juried junk vendors of vintage finds, beautiful antiques, one-of-a-kind and artisan-repurposed pieces. Sudbeck said, “It was so much fun, it was out-of-this-world crazy.” This year’s Junk Bonanza is September 16-18 (www.junkbonanza.com).

At the event, she met co-author of Decorating Junk Market Style and Junk Beautiful, Ki Nassauer. “We call ourselves junkers,” said Sudbeck. “I call my husband my Junk Hunk, and he has a t-shirt that says that.”

EDITOR’Spicks STORY BY SANDY LEMKE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINORWHITESTUDIOS.COM

Lorrie Williams, president of Fluff Your Stuff Interior Design, offers these tips on decorating your space with vintage items: • Give a nod to the past by collecting antique items that reflect your interests and hobbies.

Are you into photography? Collect vintage cameras. Love to cook? Collect and display antique cookbooks. Are you an avid gardener?

Frame vintage botanicals or pages from seed catalogs.

• Ebay is a great source for finding vintage items related to your specific interests.

• Avoid the boring matchy-matchy look of new dishes by using vintage serving pieces such as bowls and platters to your table. Add a whimsical set of salt and pepper shakers to create a great conversation piece.

• Re-use antique textiles by framing vintage linens such as handkerchiefs and embroidered pillowcases. Have a torn or damaged quilt?

Repurpose the useable portion by having it made into throw pillows or crib bedding.

• Vintage hardware adds charm and character to cabinetry and furniture.

• Make a stop at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore to purchase a vintage door for $5-20. Turn it into a desk by adding wooden sawhorses, or add corkboard and chalkboard paint to create a family message center.

• Use mismatched vintage jewelry to create one-of-a-kind décor. Remove the backs from earrings and glue them around the perimeter of a wall mirror; add a brooch to a throw pillow; create unique curtain tiebacks with mod necklaces or belts for a more contemporary space or with grandma’s beads or fake pearls for a more traditional look.

Hot Items to Get or Gift Masonry nails wired with semi-precious stones such as carnelian, citrine, turquoise, aquamarine, amethyst, lapis and more. For housewarming, christening, First Communion.

By local artists Melea Headley and Kim Geiken. Attractively boxed with choice of prayer cards. Keychains also available. On sale at Periwinkles, Pinky Winkles and the artists’ website, www.crossmyheartchics.com.

Why is everyone so excited about the new One Pacific Place Trader Joe’s store? Everyone loves Trader Joe’s for their gourmet bargains, unbeatable wine selection, and unique products from around the world. With recipes from these cookbooks, you’ll be all set to hit the aisles running when the store opens. They feature Trader Joe’s ingredients, such as sauces and other prepped items, in easy and delicious meals that can be made in minutes. On Amazon.com, at Barnes & Noble, Borders, your local bookstore, or via this website www. cookingwithtraderjoes.com.

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COVERstory STORY BY MOLLY GARRIOTT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINORWHITESTUDIOS.COM

When Sheila Elijah-Barnwell, PhD, AIA, accepted the job of lead designer for the new Methodist Health System’s women’s hospital, she knew it was a challenge she could meet. Elijah-Barnwell, Vice President and Managing Principal at HDR, already had several similar projects to her credit. In 2006, a hospital in Williamsburg, Va., designed by ElijahBarnwell opened its doors.

She also drew the plans for a satellite hospital in Boynton Beach, Fla., and another at

Architect

the University of Colorado

Sheila Elijah-Barnwell Hospital, Aurora campus.

Leading the Way in Healthcare Design

8 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

Elijah-Barnwell’s enthusiasm for the Methodist Women’s Hospital played a significant hand in the project’s success.

Women hold key roles in the healthcare industry. They are administrators, nurses, physicians, technicians and often the decision makers for family health matters. This hospital is special, created specifically to meet the needs of women of all ages facing an equally varied set of medical needs. “It’s always inspiring to work with women in leadership positions across the business world,” acknowledges Elijah-Barnwell. Teaming with the healthcare professionals in designing the Methodist Women’s Hospital was a rewarding experience for Elijah-Barnwell.

Methodist Women’s Hospital is slotted to open June 21. The project underwent a 14-month design effort before construction began in August 2007. Client interaction was integral to the process, says Elijah-Barnwell. It began with what she calls “visioning sessions” in which representatives from Methodist Health Systems met with the HDR team to offer their concepts on what a women’s hospital should be. Elijah-Barnwell designed the hospital to accommodate her client’s specifications, soliciting feedback, listening to their concerns and altering plans to address these concerns.

The finished product differs from the healthcare design of the early 1990s. During these initial years of her architecture career, healthcare design was functionally driven. It responded more to the current technology and tools of the industry. Today, healthcare design is much more cognizant of the patient’s point of view and therefore more concerned with the hospital environment than it was 20 years ago.

Gone is the sterile, institutional-looking décor. Today’s hospitals look more like resorts. Knowing that patients and families spend a good deal of time in waiting rooms, the furniture is comfortable and inviting. Art and softer lighting warms the atmosphere. Gardens provide therapeutic settings for recovery. Services geared for younger clients are more communal and child-friendly. Those targeting older clients are quieter, more private and offer additional space for family members accompanying the patients.

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COVERstory Healthcare design is growing in interest among future and young architects. “More students are interested in areas of expertise that present opportunities to give back,” she has witnessed. Healthcare design is one such area. Environment hugely impacts how a patient handles the stress of an illness. It also affects healthcare professionals working 12-hour days. To be able to make time spent in a hospital more relaxing is a way she and her colleagues can give back to the community.

Elijah-Barnwell has a Masters of Architecture and a Doctorate in Education, with an emphasis on architectural education, and facilitates HDR’s involvement in UNL’s Healthcare Design Studio. This graduate program is a collaborative effort between the university’s architecture and interior design programs. It was established for students to explore how built environments can foster psychological and spiritual wellness while simultaneously tending to a patient’s medical needs. The Methodist Women’s Hospital is this concept materialized.

In recent years, Elijah-Barnwell has noticed an increasing number of women pursuing careers in architecture. “There are more women in scholastic programs and more returning to the field after raising their families” than when she was studying architecture at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in the late 1980s. At this time, fellow female students were rare. Furthermore, “it was hard to find female role models, even in education. There were few female faculty members,” she recalls.

But the complexion of architecture is changing. Case in point: the growing number females applying for architectural internships.

For the past three years, Elijah-Barnwell has overseen HDR’s internship program. Candidates come from schools of design in Nebraska, Kansas and Iowa. “I do see more women entering leadership positions in the workforce. Many of our interns are talented women,” Elijah-Barnwell states.

Still, the perception is that architecture is a male profession. That it is male dominant is accurate, says Elijah-Barnwell. When she first joined HDR 16 years ago, there was only one female architect employed in the Omaha office. She sat in the interior design studio, not in one of the architectural studios.

Is there a glass ceiling? That depends on geography, believes Elijah-Barnwell. Many of her clients are located on the east coast, which has more progressive notion of women in a corporate environment. Here in the more traditional Midwest, she has confronted a more restrictive environment: “I felt like I really had to work hard to prove myself.” Part of it, she concedes, was overcoming ingrained stereotypes. Employers were hesitant to hire women whom they feared would leave the profession altogether or at least work fewer hours once they started a family.

Attitudes are changing, however. “More men in my firm are sensitive to family issues,” she has observed. She attributes this in part to the large number of two-income families. With more wives working outside the home, husbands have assumed additional family care obligations. They understand first hand the difficulties of juggling a career and family.

Elijah-Barnwell’s contribution to the Omaha community is farreaching. She has positively impacted patients’ lives with Methodist Women’s Hospital and other healthcare facilities. She has also forged a path for women entering the field of architecture.

She may not have enjoyed the benefits of female forerunners in her field, but this next generation of women architects can look to Elijah-Barnwell for guidance and example.

10 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

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FEATURE

Summers Off — No Way!

Trinidad. Australia. Virgin Gorda. What do

these destinations have in common? For Mindy

Podraza, these are a few of the exotic places

One Ralston teacher finds the perfect

she’s worked during her five summers as an

mix of volunteerism and adventure.

employee of Visions Service Adventures. So how did this Ralston Middle School teacher find such a unique way to spend her summers off? “I Googled cool summer jobs,” Podraza says with a laugh. That simple search led her to the adventure of a lifetime, where she ended up working in some of the most picturesque places on earth. Gotta love the internet.

12 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

STORY BY HEATHER HEIER LANE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINORWHITESTUDIOS.COM

Podraza quickly found herself in Trinidad at a nature preserve, helping leatherback turtles nest. The massive creatures weighed 800 pounds each, and it was her group’s primary goal to help the turtles keep their babies safe from predators. Then it was on to Australia, where Podraza spent her second summer. She lived on an Aboriginal farm where the main task was to build shade structures to keep people safe from the heat as they learned valuable job skills to ease the transition from unemployment to finding work. In Virgin Gorda, a tiny eight-square-mile island in the Caribbean, Podraza and her crew helped to demolish dangerous playground equipment at a primary school, replacing it with a new, safe place for kids to play. “If Visions had not come into the community, they would still have that old playground,” says Podraza proudly. She’s spent the past two years serving communities in the U.S., specifically the Mississippi Gulf Coast area.

So what exactly is Visions Service Adventures? The simple answer is an agency that places teens in remote and exciting locations in order to fulfill their community service requirements for graduation. But in reality, Visions is much more than that. Visions is an organization that finds communities in need and then recruits teens to help the struggling, underserved communities. Visions introduces teens age 14-18 to cultures and environments unlike anything they have experienced before. The groups generally include about 25 students and 5-6 leaders like Podraza, who together provide materials and labor for projects designated by individual communities.

The students gain valuable life lessons ranging from the basics of how to build sturdy structures, all the way to more intangible benefits—gaining empathy, understanding community, and working side-by-side with people they may never meet back home.

The communities in turn benefit by getting important projects completed that may otherwise lay dormant. The greatest benefit to students, leaders, and community alike, are the lasting friendships cultivated right along with the physical projects.

Podraza says the greatest part of being associated with Vision’s was watching the kids develop a better world view right before her eyes. Many of the teens start the program as pampered kids, primarily wanting an exciting way to get school credit. But according to Podraza, it does not take long for these students to realize that the poverty they encounter is prevalent all over the world, and what they are doing is truly benefiting the communities they serve and the people they meet. It is life-changing and eye-opening. And it also happens to be one really cool way to spend the summer.

Looking for an awesome summer job, or a great place to send your kids where they can pick up a few good life skills? Visit www.visionsserviceadventures.com. Please note students pay to participate but scholarships may be available. And don’t fear... if you are not quite that adventurous, you don’t actually have to leave the country—this summer Visions is headed to Alaska, Montana and Mississippi, in addition to several other areas outside the U.S.

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HERfamily

Hands-on exhibits, such as “Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Motion” and the military aircraft displays at the Strategic Air & Space Museum, help enrich a gifted child’s learning and creativity.

Enriching a Gifted Child As parents, all of us want the best for our children —foremost, for them to be happy, smart, well-adjusted kids. Parents of children that have been assessed as “gifted,” or high-ability learners (HAL) as they’re sometimes referred to, face special challenges in helping them fulfill that reality.

Unique learning needs often accompany giftedness, and must be met to ensure a happy, fulfilled child. And though these needs may be addressed in the classroom, it is not enough to let teachers alone do the work. Parents play a vital role in both recognizing their children’s gifts, and in developing them to their full potential.

David Porter, the HAL coordinator for Bennington Public Schools, defined some of the characteristics commonly found among gifted students. “Most educators would agree that gifted children are full of possibilities. They generally learn at a faster rate than others. They need fewer repetitions and comprehend material in their area of giftedness more quickly. They carry on unusually mature conversations,

discover their unique gifts.” and may have interests beyond their gradeRecognizing gifted children at an early level peers. age, then challenging them appropriately “And they’re often more sensitive than are keys to helping them become highothers, and will sometimes surprise ability learners, Porter said. adults with their intuition and leaps of Gifted children “who go through their understanding.” early years with a lack of challenge soon There are many areas in which children may display giftedness, including language, learn that they don’t need to work hard in order to do very well in school and math/logical thought, music, to name a few, receive praise,” he said. “This lesson is Porter said. “And high ability in one area doesn’t necessarily carry over into another.” often learned by second or third grade.

Consequently, they underachieve and may Mary Boden Anderson, head of the never reach their talented potential.”

Montessori Children’s Room in Omaha, In some cases, under-challenged kids said unfortunately, many gifted students may even become so-called “troublego overlooked. “Often children are labeled makers” at school — a response to their gifted because they score well on academic boredom and frustration. tests. But giftedness isn’t always something you can grade on a test. For instance, a Anderson said one way parents can student may be gifted in the arts, or have challenge a gifted child is to offer them a a gift for speaking in front of a group, and variety of topics to explore, then help them those gifts might not be identified. “zero in” on a topic that piques their interest “It’s my belief that every child is gifted in and develop a project around it. “They one way or another. Given the opportunity can take that topic and use websites and to think ‘outside the box’ of classroom work, encyclopedias to research it, for instance.

Maybe go into the community and interview and explore new interests, every child can

14 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

STORY BY LINDA PERSIGEHL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINORWHITESTUDIOS.COM

someone in that field, and then make a video presentation about it to show to their family.

“That topic might not be what you’re interested in, or what you want them to be interested in, but you let them go with it. The more intense the interest, the more focus, the more stimulating to the brain.”

Helping gifted children develop a passion for their gift is essential, Porter concurred. “If we show interest in and support the areas in which they are interested, we have done a lot to help them.” Porter also emphasized, “Kids must be praised for their effort more than their results. (Parents should) talk about times in their own lives when they worked until they solved a problem and succeeded.

Children who persevere are the ones who find great success.”

Allowing enough time in their day for a child to explore new ideas and be creative is another tip for parents, said Anderson.

“So many of our kids are over-stimulated with video, audio, computers…or they’re over-booked. They need unscheduled time to dream, think, be creative.”

Anderson said Leonardo daVinci is a prime example of someone who was allowed time to think, draw and create. “The exhibit of his creations at the [Strategic Air & Space Museum] is proof of that.”

Porter said gifted kids in particular benefit from venturing out in the community to learn about a variety of topics and experiences. “[They] need trips to the library or art museums, vacations, and day trips to an outcroppings of rocks or the community playhouse. If they’re older…a day spent shadowing someone who works in their area of interest. Or local summer camps or workshops can be great.

“Mostly, spending time working with them, talking with them, and encouraging them in their efforts in their areas of giftedness.”

For summer opportunities for your kids to explore, Porter recommends parents go to the Education Service Unit #3 website. www.esu3.ishareinfo.org “You’ll find everything from Ad Astra classes at Creighton U. to Westside School District’s summer programs.” UNO, Joslyn Art Museum, The Durham Museum, Omaha Metro YMCAs, Omaha Children’s Museum and Metro Communtiy College also offer workshops and day camps for preschoolers through high schoolers.

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15

SHE’Screative

Judy Greff:

“I paint realism as I feel it.”

Judy Greff’s business card reproduces a painting of a succulent Bosc pear. It is lit from one side, its curve haloed against a neutral background. That ideal image conveys directly to our senses its ripe heaviness, floral fragrance, and sweet taste. Although placed on a patchwork cloth, the simple pear holds our attention and desire, like a golden icon.

Greff belongs to a generation of women who grew up within a system of limited expectations and came of age during a time of social upheaval. Like many, she married young and quickly had children whom she did and does love deeply. But the tumultuous late 60s, with its calls to “find” oneself, to live a life of personal integrity and fulfillment, awoke a response that Greff could not ignore. It was a search for creative expression that could scarcely be articulated, let alone planned, but that Greff has, from the beginning, continued to define, assess, nurture, and claim for her own. It is a journey that parallels her approach to painting.

Art, Greff says, “has taught me how to see.” Her artistic skills and awareness continued with formal and informal instruction,

travel, associations and friendships with other artists, exhibitions and gallery affiliations. Perhaps most importantly, from her first recognition of her own creative spirit, she has fought for and danced with that spark. In western Nebraska, she arranged babysitters and commuted to classes. At 43, she took a sabbatical, traveling to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, an eclectic community where she lived alone and painted for three months. At fifty, her sabbatical challenge was breast cancer. Every step—physical and emotional, daunting or delightful, mundane or extraordinary—has shaped both the woman and the artist.

Today Greff and her husband live in a spacious log cabin on the Platte River. Last September, “River House” was the site for a joyous family reunion and celebration of the couple’s 50th wedding anniversary. Greff’s home and studio are filled with exotic souvenirs and daily miscellany. It is as kaleidoscopic, idiosyncratic, sensuous, fascinating, expressive and embellished as the crazy quilts she collects, and just as warm and comfortable.

This is her base, where Greff photographs, sketches, accumulates,

16 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

COLUMN BY SUZANNE SMITH ARNEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINORWHITESTUDIOS.COM

and sorts. On rambles through cottonwooded river bottoms or along country roads, she almost always carries a camera to record unexpected views.

Stopping by a mailbox on a late morning in May, she was captivated by a red plastic ribbon twirling in the breeze. She admired the glint of sunlight, the stake’s strong line, and the contrast with the blue-green tangle of ditch weeds. These responses and more were transformed into Survey Stake (2010).

As she begins painting, she patiently works through the problems each idea presents, the complexities of moving from idea to representation. The resulting still life or landscape is a distilled essence of thoughts, sensations, and experience. Each is brought to perfect resolution by a woman who truly found herself and makes her life a work of art. It is reality felt.

Judy Greff’s work will be featured at: Burkholder Project 719 P St., Lincoln www.burkholderproject.com June 1 through 29 Reception June 4, 7-9 Artists Cooperative 405 S. 11th St., Omaha www.artistsco-opgallery.com June 30 - July 31 Reception July 3, 7-10

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WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • JUNE/JULY 2010 • HER

17

BEAUTYsheet

Smooth Surfing

Beauty Websites

Product junkies, rejoice! Online superstores offer the best of luxury makeup and skincare with just a few clicks. You don’t have to leave your home or desk to shop for your favorite goodies.

The best site-seeing is at webstores with premium brands, free shipping, samples and discounts. Some offer blogs, advice and forums.

You can even “Buy the Big O!” by shopping at LovelySkin. com, owned by Omaha board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Joel Schlessinger of Skin Specialists. LovelySkin.com recently added fragrances and also carries Lovely Skin’s own brand

of doctor-recommended skincare. Hot tip: LovelySkin.com offers sitewide discount codes from time to time. “Like” LovelySkin.com on Facebook to learn the codes!

BeautyFix.com is like a mystery grab bag, but better! It’s customized just for you by beauty experts according to your coloring and skin type. How it works: you create a profile with a few clicks. Then for $49, they send you eight of the hottest beauty products, some before they even hit the market, along with styling advice from their beauty experts. Once you have tried all the

18 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

FASHIONfaux pas

STORY BY SANDY LEMKE

STORY BY JAMIE WHITE

Sneakers with Skirts Equals

Fashion Misstep

products and shared your opinions, you get a $25 gift certificate to glow.com.

Glow.com features an organic section and quite a few tutorial videos from makeup and hair experts. For some interesting reading, click to the “Meet the Glow Pros” section and click on their profiles. Each expert lists their favorite products and beauty advice.

Dermstore.com has brands like Decleor, MLab, and YonKa in addition to all the usual suspects. Visit their Bonus Boutique for special offers after hitting the $50 spending level, which is easy to do when buying premium skin care.

We’ve all seen her before… The working woman wearing a basic pantsuit or skirt. Her look is generic but professional, until your eyes drift to her feet — Tennis shoes, with big white socks over her tights. It’s usually some frumpy gal with no fashion sense whatsoever.

You’d think her boss or co-worker would write her up and giver her one of those “counseling cards” they hand out now.

I blame this hideous look on Richard Simmons — for his Sweatin’ to the Oldies look in 1985, and for encouraging people at work to get out and walk during their lunch breaks. Of course that’s a great idea, but come on! Do you realize how ridiculous you look? My friend, Andrea, willingly takes on this hideous look. I asked her why she chooses to look frumpy at work and she says, “I’m a runner, so I wear them for orthopedic reasons, and I just don’t care what others think of me.” Marathon runner or lunchtime mall walker, women need to stop doing this!

I decided to give this look a try a few weeks ago, just to bear witness to the looks of “OMG, is she really wearing that?” I

went down by the First National Bank at lunchtime, where I found a herd of women power-walking to get a dose of high-sodium Sweet and Sour Chicken and a Diet Coke.

I sported black dress pants and white-onrice Nike’s. I caught one passerby taking a second glance at my feet, and then he looked me straight in the eye as if to say, “Are you serious?” I felt embarrassed, finished my lunch and went home.

I can understand if you don’t want to wear three-inch stilettos to work (I mean, I can’t even walk in them!), but at least make an effort to find some cute, comfy flats that look appropriate. There are many nice boots out there for the winter as well. I recently bought a pair of tall, black suede boots at Be Yourself, and they’re just as comfortable as tennis shoes and simply make more sense. Right now is a great time to pick up some comfortable sandals for those beautiful walks over lunch hour.

Something that’s fashionable, yet offers some arch support. So to those women I say, don’t be a fashion victim any longer — leave the white walkers at home.

WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • JUNE/JULY 2010 • HER

19

HEALTHextra STORY BY LINDA PERSIGEHL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINORWHITESTUDIOS.COM

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A mole is just a mole, or is it?

Some women view moles as beauty marks — even make them their trademark (ala Cindy Crawford). Others see them as ugly spots and try to conceal rather than showcase them. Whatever your take, these typically harmless pigmentations of the skin are best checked regularly to insure they remain a non-threat. All moles are NOT created equal!

Dr. Joel Schlessinger, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon with Skin Specialists and president of LovelySkin.com, said heredity plays a big role in how many moles a person has (virtually all of us have at least a few) and their potential to become worrisome. “But sunlight exposure can affect their appearance greatly, especially artificial sunlight as in tanning booths.”

Schlessinger said that while most moles pose no danger, some may evolve into skin cancer over time. “The average melanoma doesn’t come up right away, but develops from an existing mole,” he said. “Dark, flat moles are the ones that pose the greatest risk, and the darker the color, the greater the threat. But any mole that is changing or suddenly appears or bleeds is suspect.”

Other mole traits to watch for include an irregular border, varied coloration, and asymmetry of the mole shape.

If a suspicious mole is discovered, a dermatologist will typically advise you whether to keep observing it for further changes, or to have it removed. Once removed, the mole should pose no further threat “as long as your pathologist is sure the margins of the specimen are okay,” Schlessinger said.

Your best bet to reduce your skin risks? Limit your minutes in the sun, and use sunscreen. “The less sunlight exposure over the years, the fewer the moles and less chance for skin cancer and melanoma in the long run,” Schlessinger said. And if you have a family member with melanoma, a visit to a dermatologist for a skin check every six months is recommended. For the rest of us, an annual visit is a good idea. “But if in doubt [about any mole], go to your dermatologist!” he warned.

20 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

HEALTHfocus

STORY BY SUSAN MEYERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINORWHITESTUDIOS.COM

Two-time cancer survivor Genevieve Bosilevac with her husband and three-year-old twins, who inspire her to keep on fighting.

Surviving Cancer For many, the battle continues.

More people today are surviving cancer than ever before. In fact, one of the fastest growing populations among cancer patients is that of the survivor. Even so, the road to recovery is often one filled with countless social, emotional and physical challenges that extend well beyond the initial battle. These cancer survivors share their stories of hope, perseverance and survival.

Genevieve Bosilevac Genevieve Casey Bosilevac’s three-year-old twin boys keep her so busy that sometimes she forgets that she’s battling cancer. Her twins are also what give Genevieve the strength to win the battle.

And so far, she is.

Genevieve has a rare cancer called pleural mesothelioma that is caused by asbestos exposure. Doctors speculate that the cancer, which can lay dormant for years, was activated after Genevieve received radiation treatment for breast cancer in 2001. continued on next page

WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • JUNE/JULY 2010 • HER

21

HEALTHfocus

— Bosilevac

return of more fluid and tumors, Genevieve agreed to undergo a second experimental surgery in April to remove the cancer from the pleural lining of her lungs followed by the heated chemotherapy regimen.

Genevieve, who draws on her faith and good humor to stay positive, says that if the procedure is successful, she hopes that it will become the protocol for treating the many 911 workers who were exposed to asbestos and are now developing the same cancer.

“I pray that something good will come out of this that will make it possible to help others,” says Genevieve.

In a strange way, Genevieve says the cancer has been almost like a gift. “It’s brought me so much closer to my friends and family and to my faith,” says Genevieve. “I’m going to make it through this. I plan to be around for at least another 20 years.”

but she speculates it happened during her younger years attending parochial schools in older neighborhoods of Omaha.

After many months of searching for a diagnosis, Genevieve was finally diagnosed at the Mayo Clinic. Today, she is being treated

by Marcus Balters, MD, thoracic surgeon, and Brian Loggie, MD, a surgeon at Creighton University Medical Center who is known worldwide for treating this condition and other rare cancers.

Last summer, Genevieve underwent an experimental surgery performed by Dr. Loggie to remove the cancer from her abdomen as well as all unnecessary organs. The surgery was followed by a regimen of heated chemotherapy that is injected into the body.

Genevieve has been symptom-free until more recently. With the

Treasure Rasmussen Most people know Treasure Rasmussen as an upbeat young lady with a big smile and a warm glow on her face. What many people don’t know are the physical handicaps Treasure endures as a result of her ongoing battle with cancer that has spanned most of her 19 years.

At the age of 2, Treasure was diagnosed with a brain tumor that stole the vision in her left eye and has left her with limited vision in her right eye. Over approximately a 10-year period, Treasure underwent numerous brain surgeries and ongoing chemotherapy treatments at Children’s Hospital, while under the care of Dr. Minnie Abromowitch, Oncologist; Dr. Leslie

At its worst, the cancer would cause large build-ups of fluid in her abdomen, which would need to be drained every couple of weeks. “Within three weeks, I would gain 15 pounds of fluid,” recalls Genevieve. “I looked like I was nine months pregnant.”

Genevieve doesn’t know when the asbestos exposure occurred,

“I pray that something good will come out of this that will make it possible to help others.”

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22 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

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HEALTHfocus Hellbusch, Neuro-surgeon; and Dr.Kevin Corley, Endocrinologist.. Unfortunately, because of the location of the tumor, which is next to vital brain structures, not all of the tumor can be removed.

Despite Treasure’s upbeat attitude, the surgeries have taken a toll on Treasure’s physical health. In addition to her limited vision, Treasure also deals daily with chronic fatigue, constant headaches, and endocrine issues. At one point, Treasure’s health was so uncertain, that she was granted a Make-A-Wish trip to Disney

“My faith has given me the strength and encouragement to keep me going everyday.”

— Rasmussen World. That was 15 years ago. While Treasure rebounded, her battle is an ongoing one. The tumor, which is very slow-growing, must be monitored frequently with MRIs. Because of Treasure’s many health issues, she was home-schooled all of her life.

But you won’t hear Treasure complain. “Treasure lives daily with certain limitations, but to look at her, you would never know it,” says her mother, Cheri. “She has the motivation and maturity to do anything but her body won’t let her.”

What she can share is her inspiration and strength and she does continued on next page

Despite her nearly life-long battle with brain cancer, Treasure Rasmussen lives her life inspiring others with her happy spirit and great outook.

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HEALTHfocus this by providing support and encouragement to other children with cancer. Treasure has provided more than 600 volunteer hours on the patient floors at Children’s Hospital, and participates in the cancer support group, Candlelighters. “I really enjoy volunteering because I know what these kids are going through

More people today are surviving cancer than ever before. and I can relate to them. I remember how the volunteers helped me get through difficult times.”

Treasure says she would like to pursue a career in the health care field, but it will be difficult with her limited vision.

“I get discouraged sometimes,” says Treasure. “But through it all, I’m a believer in the Lord, Jesus Christ. My faith has given me the strength and encouragement to keep me going everyday. I’m taking it one step at a time.”

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Judy Shepherd For most of her life, Judy Shepherd was a sun Goddess. “If there was sun, I was out,” says Judy. During her childhood, Judy lifeguarded and taught swim lessons during her summers from sun up to sunset and was heavily slathered in baby oil and suntan lotions. As an adult, Judy grabbed every chance she could to be outdoors, whether it be golfing, gardening, walking, bicycling or attending her children’s sporting events. “I had never used a drop of sunscreen my entire life and was of the understanding that as a brown hair female, I didn’t need any sun protection,” says Judy.

But eventually Judy had to pay her dues. In July 2003, Judy was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma — the deadliest form of skin cancer and the highest stage possible. It came to Judy’s attention after a morning of doing yard work in the hot summer sun. That’s when her husband noticed a change in her strawberry shaped birthmark — it was red, blistery and raw-like. “The odd thing is that I had just had it checked by my doctor less than 6 months before,” says Judy. When Judy received the news, she said it was like she had been “thrown against a wall in a dark cave.”

The cancer had spread into her right arm lymph nodes, back, stomach area and breast. Her surgeon removed the cancer spots and lymph nodes after numerous surgeries and then sent her to an oncologist for follow-up care. “She told me that I wasn’t going to survive,” recalls Judy. “That I should go home and get my papers in order.”

Judy was so discouraged that she didn’t see another doctor for a year. Eventually, however, she succumbed to her friends’ pressure to seek help. Dr. Margaret Block, MD, FACP, with Nebraska Cancer Specialists, was just what Judy needed. “One of the first things she told me,” recalls Judy, “was, ‘I think we can beat it.’ She was a Godsend. She was just so caring. She didn’t make me feel like I was just a nobody and made me feel that I was important to her.”

24 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

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Midlands Two Professional Center 401 E Gold Coast Rd, Ste 329 Papillion, NE 68046 phone (402) 934-9323 fax (402) 934-9471 www.yourbreasthealthcare.com Judy Shepherd, on her former self: “I had never used a drop of sunscreen in my whole life.”

Dr. Block started Judy on intravenous chemotherapy, followed by oral chemotherapy medications and concluding with 11 months of chemotherapy shots in the abdomen three days a week. It was grueling,, remembers Judy, but it also saved her life.

Judy has been in remission for five years now and she is committed to keeping the cancer-free streak going. “I stay out of the sun at all costs and wear sunscreen and protective clothing all of the time,” she says. She waits until evening to do her outdoor activities now. “I miss those things, but I don’t miss what I had to go through,” she says.

“One of the first things she told me was, ‘I think we can beat it.’ ” — Shepherd Judy says that she sometimes thinks back at her younger days and regrets her misguided habits. But then she stops herself. “I can’t look back now,” she says. “I just have to keep looking forward.”

And she has a lot to look forward to – seeing her own three children and two step-children and families living their lives and watching her eight grandchildren grow up. “Dr. Block calls me her miracle patient,” says Judy. “I am truly blessed to be here.”

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FORher

profile

Alotta Brownies Taking Over the World One Tummy at a Time

Not a lot of pastry chefs can name pop icon Madonna among their former customers (she loves carrot cake).

Or Yoko Ono, or Mary Tyler Moore. But Michelle Kaiser can.

During her years working for The Silver Palate in New York City, Kaiser baked cakes and goodies for a host of celebrities. She even became a bit famous herself: “My chocolate orange truffle brownies were voted by customers as the best brownies on the upper west side of NYC.” These days, Kaiser sells her delectable desserts to more common folk, made in the kitchen of her Fremont bakery, Alotta Brownies. The “custom scratch bake shop” offers all kinds of goodies, from cakes and cookies to breads, brownies and pastries to several varieties of sweet rolls. The desserts are sold to walk-in customers, or may be custom-ordered. “For our corporate customers, we have several sizes of breakfast trays and brownie goodie trays available, and custom-decorated cakes for any event.”

Alotta Brownies also offers box lunches, which include a sandwich (made with fresh-baked bread), chips, choice of baby carrots or apple slices, and a brownie.

Kaiser said she got her baking inspiration from her grandmother, who she’d spend many hours with in the kitchen growing up in Nebraska. “I had a little talent and little persistence,” she said. After high school, she moved to NY to work as a nanny and cook. She attended classes at the New York Restaurant School, and later, apprenticed with a French pastry chef at Patisserie Les Friandise.

After several years at restaurants and catering companies in NY, she opened Michelle’s Muffins & More, a wholesale bakery supplying coffee shops. “I built up a nice clientele,” she reminisces.

With kids approaching school age, she and her husband decided to move back home to raise their family. After nearly a decade of working in several food service management positions, Kaiser decided it was time to go into business for herself again.

First opened in Arlington in July 2009, Alotta Brownies’ business grew quickly – very quickly! “By November, we realized that a move to a larger production space was going to have to occur.”

Since the majority of her customers hailed from Fremont, Kaiser worked with business leaders there to secure the old Vienna Bakery location, renovate the building and make the transition. The bakery held a grand re-opening on February 1, 2010.

The interior of Alotta Brownies is best described as whimsical. Bright pink, green and chocolate brown colors adorn the walls, and a sunshine-yellow tin ceiling greets you as you walk in. A lip bar runs along the front of the dining space with a view out the front windows, with a few tables strewn about, and wrought iron tables and chairs on a front patio allow customers to enjoy their sweet and coffee “alfresco.”

Kaiser said she appreciates that customers love to linger and enjoy the lovely space, but she’s most concerned with making sure they’re blown away by her desserts. “I want Alotta Brownies to be known for the richest, fudgiest brownie imaginable. Some call us the brownie divas!”

26 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

Michelle Kaiser

317 N Main St Fremont, NE www.alottabrownies.com (402) 721-9400

profile

FORher

The center for medical weight loss

Weight loss. It’s a goal so many of us struggle to achieve, but with little or no success. Dr. Jeffrey Passer, a member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians and a 25-year veteran in non-surgical weight management, believes it’s because so many weight loss plans are either untested fads, one-size-fits-all, or take a single approach to weight loss.

“In order for a weight loss plan to work, it has to be tailored to the individual,” Passer said. “What works for one, doesn’t work for the next person.” It also must take a multi-faceted approach. Simply put, weight loss is complicated.

At the Center for Medical Weight Loss, which Passer founded five years ago, plans are truly customized.

Dr. Jeffrey Passer “We do a complete medical assessment of each patient to determine the reasons they fail to lose weight, or continue to gain,” he said. Then his highly trained, experienced staff (which includes a Nurse Practitioner, medical nutrition therapists, among others) tailor a weight loss plan specifically for that patient, which will encompass counseling/behavior modification, nutrition information, weight loss supplements/meal replacements, and exercise recommendations. The patient’s progress is monitored as they follow the plan, and adapted as needed until the goal weight is met.

Passer said his center sees between 80-100 patients each week for initial assessment or follow-up care; the majority are women, age 30-60, who have concerns both about their appearance as well as their health. Weight-loss goals vary greatly, from 20 to 200 pounds.

Board certified in Internal Medicine and Nephrology, Passer said he began his specialization in weight loss back in 1985, when he first recognized the growing need for care. “I saw that weight was a growing medical issue, with obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease becoming epidemic.” A family history of weight issues also contributed to his choice. “I saw my mother deal with her weight her entire life, and I myself have found it hard to manage my own weight.”

Passer said that while surgical weight loss measures, such as gastric bypass surgery and gastric banding, have become more popular and safer in recent years, they are not the answer for everyone. “Surgery works very well, but people must keep in mind that these surgeries involve risks and result in major changes in someone’s life. And there’s still always the chance that they’ll gain the weight back.”

Non-surgical weight loss methods, can and do still work, when the right plan is in place, Passer assured. The Center for Medical Weight Loss’ website, www.weightlossofomaha.com, features testimonials from several clients who’ve seen success using a custom-designed plan — no anesthesia, cutting, or hospital stay required.

None-the-less, weight loss is never easy, Passer reminds us. “If it were easy, we’d all be thin.” But the Center for Medical Weight Loss can make your efforts safer, healthier, and much more successful.

Passer is an Omaha native and received his undergraduate degree from Creighton U. and 4239 Farnam St. a his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He and his wife, a Omaha, NE nurse, have five grown children, including one in medical school. His down time is spent with grandkids www.weightlossofomaha.com or on the golf course.

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WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • JUNE/JULY 2010 • HER

27

Service comes first at Otis.

To us, that means developing new products that meet our customers’ needs and challenges; providing reliable maintenance; and modernizing systems to keep pace with a building’s changing face and function. In all areas of service, Otis is committed to inspiring total customer confidence.

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Give me a call, and let me give you a quote. Let me earn your trust and business.

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message from

Theresa Cassaday, Chief Communication Officer

Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska

Leaving Things Better Than We Found Them Girl Scouts are Forever Green What matters most to girls in America? such as encouraging their school to use Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) recently environmentally-friendly art materials asked that question and the overwhelming or helping a parent install a low-flow response was, “the environment.” It was showerhead; while others may require that impassioned reply that led GSUSA more time and planning—like refurbishing to develop and launch an action-oriented a nesting environment for endangered initiative called: “Girl Scouts Forever Green.” bird species. The important lesson is that Girl Scouts Forever Green empowers girls will recognize they have the power girls to to change implement a a course project that of events, will benefit especially both the when environment they work and their collectively. community Judging from with lasting, their response, sustainable today’s youth change. are deeply Many girls aware that the are already health of the taking steps earth is vitally in the right linked to the direction— health of its Girls are making an impact on the environment with Girl Scouts’ new program initiative. recycling at inhabitants. It school, planting gardens, using energy could perhaps feel overwhelming and that is more efficiently, educating others—and why a program such as Girl Scouts Forever now Girl Scouts is providing even more Green is so valuable. It will harness the girls’ resources for enterprising young women energy, enthusiasm and ingenuity and give to help them get started and keep their them just a few more effective tools to keep projects going. the planet (and all who reside here) thriving GSUSA developed a Girl Scouts Forever for generations to come.

Green “Community Action Project Guide” You don’t have to be a Girl Scout to which is filled with ideas and resources for participate! We can help you get started. projects that will have a positive impact on Contact our Girl Scouts Forever Green one of five focus areas: air quality, water program coordinator Erin Huerter, conservation, energy efficiency, waste 402.779.8227 or ehuerter@ management and green space. It won’t girlscoutnebraska.org. Visit our website matter which area girls choose, they will www.girlscoutnebraska.org for more discover ways to measurably improve information. The Girl Scouts Forever conditions around them.

Green Project Guide is available The projects can be quite simple, electronically!

EVERY ISSUE, HER MAGAZINE BRINGS YOU AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE GIRL SCOUTS – SPIRIT OF NEBRASKA. YOU CAN HELP, GET INVOLVED!

28 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

fitness message from

Natalia J. Peart, PhD

By: Melissa DeLong

Chief Executive Officer

YWCA Omaha

Workforce Readiness, Basic Skills Training and Self-Sufficiency One need only spend a little time on the Greater Omaha Chamber’s website to see the many examples of the outstanding things we are doing in Omaha. Some of these efforts have receive accolades and notoriety as ground-breaking achievements, such as a No. 3 ranking of Cities Where Americans Are Getting Richer (Forbes – December 2009), and a No. 7 ranking of Best Places for Business and Careers (Forbes – April 2010).

However, there has been much attention paid to the realization that so many of our women and children have a number of challenges facing them; living in poverty without the basic skills that can move them forward.

Last year, the Omaha Chamber Workforce Collaborative launched an initiative using a dual-customer approach to move lowincome, low-skilled workers into family sustaining employment, while helping employers fill critical workforce shortages.

One of the findings following the program was that participants where consistently challenged by chronic barriers such as lack of transportation, childcare and unstable housing that reduced their employability.

These findings highlighted the fact that for many residents striving to attain economic self-sufficiency, there are multiple barriers that must be addressed in order to bring the desired changes to our community.

A new collaborative program in Omaha, funded by a two-year grant from The Gary and Mary West Foundation (Carlsbad, California), began in May.

The Basic Skills and Self-Sufficiency Pilot Program involves nine area service providers who will team together to provide comprehensive services based on a framework of a succession of education, training and career-related services. In addition, an array of support services is available, based on severity of need, as each client progresses from economic and social vulnerability to self-sufficiency.

One key goal for each of the pilot participants is to move directly into sustainable employment or to attain acceptance into an Omaha Chamber Workforce Training Collaborative Program to become employment eligible.

The YWCA is the lead agency and also provides case management for clients.

Other partners for the Basic Skills and Self-Sufficiency Pilot are: Workforce Development, Arbor Education and Training, Literacy Center of the Midlands, Nebraska Health and Human Services, Together Inc., One World Community Health Center, Charles Drew Health Center, Policy Studies, Inc., and Metropolitan Community College. All service providers have the goal of providing better coordinated, efficient services to participants than what is traditionally delivered through a piece-meal and uncoordinated service delivery model.

Programs such as these can put communities, potential workers and employers several steps closer to being productive. The new employee wins, the company wins, and agencies meet goals of working together to create a stronger and economically selfsufficient community.

EVERY ISSUE, HER MAGAZINE BRINGS YOU AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM Y WCA OMAHA. YOU CAN HELP, GET INVOLVED!

Belly Fat Be Gone!

Every woman has had the thought, “If I could only get rid of my belly fat.” It’s a common antidote for women to do Pilates and additional crunches thinking that it will reduce the extra fat they’re carrying around their mid-section. Unfortunately, there is no amount of crunches or core training that will eliminate that belly fat. The secret to losing unwanted fat around your mid-section is reducing your sugar intake. Period.

Fat is eliminated by diet and exercise as a general rule of thumb. Aerobic activity burns fat, strength training builds muscle and increases metabolism that aides in burning extra calories, but diet controls the increase/ decrease of fat stores. Specifically SUGAR is a woman’s worst enemy. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 25 grams or 100 calories of added sugar per day. That’s it! Start reading labels and just see how much sugar you’re consuming in a day. The average person consumes around 100 grams of added sugar a day. That’s around 23 teaspoons of sugar. The extra sugar we consume goes directly to fat stores and all the wonderful exercise you do will never burn the stores of fat you already have if you’ve over-indulged the sugar intake. It becomes an endless cycle of exercise with no results if the sugar is not put into check.

Bottom line, exercise will improve your health, physical condition, and appearance, but unless the diet and specifically the sugar consumption are checked, visible progress toward losing the spare tire will be limited. Read labels, control your sugar intake, exercise and see results in short order. It’s that simple!Belly Fat Be Gone!

WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • JUNE/JULY 2010 • HER

29

FOODwith flair

COLUMN BY JUDY GILLIARD

From the Sea

Seafood is the lowest in fat and calories of any animal protein source, and can also be very versatile. Being brought up on the ocean, I had the good fortune of buying fish right off the fishing boats. I find that in most cases now (since I don’t live on the coast), I prefer to buy fish that has been “flash frozen” immediately after the catch, right on the ship. This fish is much more appealing than fish than has been around four or five days. When buying fresh fish, ask to smell it first. If it has a fishy smell or an ammonia scent to it, don’t buy it.

A firm fish, such as halibut and swordfish, is excellent barbecued. And for an elegant dish, sole is perfect…In this recipe, you could substitute sea bass or red snapper if you like.

Pair your fish with a light Sauvignon Blanc or a full-bodied Chardonnay, and enjoy!

BBQ Swordfish When entertaining, make this along with grilled vegetables, chicken and steak. You’ll have a great mixed grill with something for everyone. This is also good for halibut.

Serves 6

Sole Veronique This is a version of the classic French dish, modified for ease and to lighten the fat content. Serve over brown rice.

Serves 6

2 pounds swordfish steak 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce 1 large lemon, juice only 1 tablespoon grated ginger root 1 clove garlic, chopped 1 teaspoon dry mustard 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper With a sharp boning knife or kitchen shears, trim the skin off the swordfish, then rinse and pat dry. Or you can wait and pull off the skin after you’ve cooked it, as it pulls away easily. (The skin on fish steaks is along the side of the fish.) Mix all other ingredients together in a dish or pan large enough to accommodate the swordfish. Place swordfish in the marinade. Turn to cover both sides. Marinate hours in the refrigerator, turning once. Cook on a barbecue grill or broil until done to your likeness (made sure that your grill is clean, and with a towel rub grill with oil to keep fish from sticking).

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 201 Calories; 6g Fat (28.6% calories from fat); 31g Protein; 3g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 59mg Cholesterol; 937mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 4 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 0 Fat.

1 1/2 pounds sole fillets (or other white fish) 1 cup dry white wine (or dry white vermouth) 1 teaspoon chervil 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 cup milk 1 tablespoon cornstarch 2 cups seedless grapes cut in half salt and white pepper, to taste paprika, to garnish Rinse sole and pat dry. In a skillet, bring wine, chervil and cayenne pepper to a simmer; gently add sole, simmer for 2 minutes on each side. Transfer fish to a baking/serving dish. Mix corn starch into milk, pour into skillet and heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Add grapes to sauce. Pour sauce over sole and bake at 350 degrees until flaky (about 10 minutes) Sprinkle with paprika and serve.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 193 Calories; 3g Fat (15.2% calories from fat); 23g Protein; 12g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 60mg Cholesterol; 119mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 3 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 1/2 Fruit; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 0 Fat.

30 HER • JUNE/JULY 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

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