Business Woman October 2016

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October 2016

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A SUITE RENOVATION Breast Cancer Risks, Symptoms, and New Revelations on Early Detection


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~ October 2016 | BUSINESSWoman


Inside

WHAT’S 4 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

7 when flirting with franchise ownership, due diligence is required

Please, Join Us for these events! Women of all ages– get together with family and friends for a relaxing day of shopping, fun and so much more!

Have you fantasized about delving into business ownership?

9 organize yourself for 6-s

Workers in organized spaces perform efficiently and effectively.

11 why can’t i hire the right person?

Do you find selecting a new person for your team to be an exercise in futility?

14 Fashions, Fun, Exhibitors, and More – It’s All at the Women’s Expos! Highlighting activities during the Cumberland County expo.

15 a suite renovation

E Oct. 1, 2016 9 a.m. ­­­­– 2 p.m.

Lebanon Expo Center

Creating a space to unwind.

19 financial issues to consider before retiring

A prepared retirement plan could help ease anxieties later when that day occurs.

21 breast cancer risks, symptoms, and new revelations on early detection A refresher course on early detection.

23 “you have cancer”

The impact of being diagnosed with breast cancer.

80 Rocherty Road Lebanon

omen’s Expo Cumberland County

Nov. 12, 2016 9 a.m. –­­­­ 2 p.m.

26 women to watch

Carlisle Expo Center

New hires and promotions.

100 K St. Carlisle

26 ACHIEVEMENTS & APPLAUSE

Awards and accomplishments.

27 meet and greet

Regional networking events and meetings.

5 cover story Laurie Gaughan, the impetus for the nonprofit organization Pink Hands of Hope, is a breast cancer survivor. As an ultrasonographer at PinnacleHealth, Gaughan knew what she was looking at on her ultrasound images. Now she and her husband, along with community support, assist other women who are going through their cancer journey. The PHOH building is easy to spot … just look for the enormous pink and white Adirondack chair along Trindle Road in Mechanicsburg.

Health & Wellness • Finance • Home Technology • Beauty • Nutrition Spa Treatments and more! Sponsorship opportunities available. (717) 285-1350 • www.olpevents.com

FREE online registration. ($5 at the door)

aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com BUSINESSWomanPA.com

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October 2016 Vol. 13 - No. 10

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PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER

Donna K. Anderson

EDITORIAL

Hiring the right person for arm days; cool an open position is one of the evenings; showy colors of red, Women in particular must not allow our integ- toughest duties of any hiring orange, yellow, rities to be formed by the spurious lesson we manager. Find out what you should be doing before, during, purples, and brown leaves; and festivals. It must be autumn in have been taught that we should be more for and after the interview to ensure you select the best candidate for South-Central Pennsylvania. others than for ourselves. an open position. Keep in mind We are fortunate to live in ~ Carter Heyward that the interview is a two-way a state where we can delight communication—both the in the beauty of the colors of interviewee and interviewer are the changing landscape. It’s making an impression on the also apple-picking time in our area. My husband and I have picked apples every year for other. Make sure it’s a good one. Any time of the year is a good time for home renovations. the past 40+ years. Our kids used to go, but now it’s the If you’re thinking about a bedroom or bathroom makeover, grandkids and still bushels of fun. October is also the time of year that brings awareness check out what a local company did to change an everyday to certain issues, in particular breast cancer and domestic master bedroom and enjoining bathroom into a master suite with the feel of a luxurious, elegant, private retreat. violence. The first fall women’s expo is this month. I hope A woman in the United States has a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer, and Pennsylvania you’ll preregister and join us for a day of fun and has one of the highest incidences of breast cancer in the relaxation. It’s a great way to spend your day! Call your United States. Read one local woman’s story about her family and friends and register online today and save $5. experience with breast cancer, and talk with your doctor www.aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com about the best approach to reducing your risks. Further, 1 in 4 women has been a victim of domestic violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. If you have experienced domestic violence or know someone you think has been victimized, call the domestic violence Christianne Rupp hotline, 800.799.7233. Vice President and Managing Editor

Marketing and Your Business You need to get your product or service in the hands of potential consumers. Marketing does that, and it includes sales, public relations, pricing, packaging, and distribution. We’ll gather fresh information on marketing strategies and bring them to you once a month in an easy-to-read e-newsletter called The Fresh Press. We won’t spam you with offers. That’s not what this newsletter is. Look for an email from The Fresh Press in your inbox or go to www.BusinessWomanPA.com and sign up to receive this FREE newsletter.

~ October 2016 | BUSINESSWoman

ART DEPARTMENT Production Coordinator Production Artists

LAUREN MCNALLEN Renee mcwilliams Janys ruth

PRINT/ONLINE SALES Account Executives

angie jacoby amy kieffer RANEE SHAUB miller Account Representative COLE DISCAVAGE TIA STAUFFER

ADMINISTRATION Business Manager Elizabeth Duvall Events Manager kimberly shaffer Project Coordinator Loren Gochnauer Sales & Event Coordinator eileen culp Marketing Coordinator mariah hammacher

ADVERTISING OFFICES Corporate Office:

3912 Abel Drive Columbia, PA 17512 Phone 717.285.1350 Fax 717.285.1360

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Vice President and Managing Editor Christianne Rupp Editor Megan Joyce Contributing Writers Luann Aument Kimberly Blaker Lynda Hudzick Kim Klugh Steven Kopfinger Gina Napoli Kat Schoenknecht Tami Noll Russo

For advertising information:

717-285-1350 or info@businesswomanpa.com www.businesswomanpa.com BusinessWoman is published monthly by On-Line Publishers, Inc., 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512, 717.285.1350. Copyright On-Line Publishers, Inc. 2016. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use without permission of editorial or graphic content in any manner is strictly prohibited. Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles and letters are not necessarily the views of the Publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, BusinessWoman cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor does the editorial material necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. On-Line Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to revise or reject any and all advertising. Subscription information: $14 per year for home delivery of 12 monthly issues. Subscribe online at www.BusinessWomanPA.com or call 717.285.1350. Member Of:


By LYNDA HUDZICK

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ost of the time, things seen on mammos and ultra sounds are not bad,” Laurie Gaughan said. But in her case, being an ultrasonographer at PinnacleHealth, she had more expertise than most of us when viewing her diagnostic results and, therefore, when she saw her ultrasound images on the monitor, she was almost certain that she had breast cancer. This married mother of three teenage daughters considers herself very knowledgeable about the importance of maintaining good breast health and early detection, but she never felt any lumps or had any symptoms. “My breast cancer was seen on a mammogram,” she said. “The radiologist saw something on my mammogram so he suggested I have an ultrasound next.” She recalls that even after viewing her own images and drawing the likely conclusion, the staff still had to go through the proper procedures to prove and then inform her of the diagnosis, which was difficult for her caregivers and also for her. She received the confirmation call on April Fool’s Day in 1998. “It was invasive ductal carcinoma, stage I,” Gaughan said. “And even though I knew the ultrasound looked bad and this was the news I was expecting, I still curled up in a ball on my bed and cried. My kids were only 7 and 8 years old. How was I going to tell them … how long was I going to live?” She and her husband didn’t tell their young daughters right away. Gaughan’s

Laurie Gaughan stands in front of the “hands” wall depicting people who have been assisted through Pink Hands of Hope. Her husband, Brian, sits behind the wheel of the PHOH limousine.

mother came to be with the family when they broke the news because “Grandma can always make things better,” she said. “The girls had never really experienced cancer before.” Gaughan praises the way her surgeon handled her case, being willing to spend as much time as was needed to explain things and to present her options. “I had my surgery on May 22, 1998,” she said. “For my peace of mind, I decided to have a bilateral mastectomy with reconstructive surgery at the same time … I didn’t want to be constantly worrying that I was feeling something or something was growing in the other breast that I couldn’t feel.” In her line of work, she said that she’s seen women suffer great

emotional distress caused by those exact anxieties, and it turned out to be the right decision because there was some lobular cancer in her other breast. She also praises her husband for supporting her decision. Although she was in a great deal of pain after the surgery, as soon as she was permitted to do so, Gaughan started swimming and moving her muscles as much as possible. “I went back to work in the beginning of July,” she said. “I also started chemotherapy in July, but fortunately, I only had four chemo treatments … My type of breast cancer was fueled by estrogen, so I had my ovaries taken out in November of 1998.” Gaughan feels that the thing she struggled with most during her recovery was the medications she

needed to take. “I was told that I’d have to take medications for 5-10 years after my chemo. In my case it was Arimidex. I felt absolutely horrible taking it … My bones and joints ached constantly.” She had no energy and was in a lot of pain, making it difficult to do much of anything. “Then I felt guilty because I had three young kids who needed me to do things for them,” she said. “Finally, after a year, I spoke up and told my doctor I just couldn’t take it anymore.” Her medications were changed and she felt much better, wishing she had advocated for herself sooner, but as she put it, “I guess I was just afraid to ‘complain’ about the meds … very silly.” When she was diagnosed with

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Story A Blip on the Screen of Life

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breast cancer, Gaughan said she didn’t feel the need to join a support group, but felt that her husband Brian would have benefitted from one. The problem was that they couldn’t find one that welcomed men. “So Brian came up with the idea of having a store that could help those going through breast cancer … by giving them clothes, wigs, prosthetics, or just talking to them if that’s what they need,” said Gaughan. “Brian needed to talk to others, and this was a means to do so … It’s surprising how many men need someone to talk to and may not even realize it until they start talking.” That store, named Pink Hands of Hope, is a nonprofit thrift store relying on donations, both monetary and those of quality furniture and clothing. “We have a room set up specifically for breast cancer patients that’s filled with wigs, prosthetics, bras, chemo caps and shawls, port pillows, lap and prayer blankets, and a resource center with various information—all free

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Laurie and Brian Gaughan in the room where wigs and accessories are available at PHOH.

to patients undergoing breast cancer treatment, regardless of their ability to pay,” she said. “Many of these items are handmade by caring people—and we have wonderful volunteers who help us at PHOH.” In addition to the thrift store, PHOH has several other programs geared toward helping those who are touched by breast cancer to cope. One of those, the “adopt a patient” program,

~ October 2016 | BUSINESSWoman

helps patients who may be struggling to pay their bills by using both donated funds and profits from the thrift store. In addition, there is the makeover program, which was created to “make a patient feel special for a day,” Gaughan said. “We treat them to ‘new’ clothes provided by PHOH, a hairdo provided by a local salon, and we take them to lunch with a friend, provided

by a local restaurant, in our PHOH limousine.” As she celebrates her continued cancer-free status, Gaughan knows that feeling good about yourself and having a positive attitude is a big part of a successful recovery. “Laughter helps,” she said. “Sometimes laughter kept us from crying. And if someone offers to help you—clean your house, cook you a meal, watch your kids—let them! It’s OK to accept help.” It’s also OK to admit that there are times when she experiences an ache or pain that lasts for a while and the thought of the cancer returning pops into her head. “I think that’s only natural … but I don’t dwell on it,” she said. “All in all, Brian likes to say that it’s just a blip on the screen of life, and he’s right!” • If you would like to donate money or clothing or you would like to volunteer at Pink Hands of Hope, please visit www. pinkhandsofhope.org.


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When Flirting with Franchise Ownership, Due Diligence is Required By KIM KLUGH

f you’ve fantasized about delving into business ownership but want to avoid the risk and hassle of getting established and building a reputation, then franchise ownership may be the option that satisfies your entrepreneurial spirit. Rather than take the gamble of buying or starting a business from scratch, FranNet business consultant Steven Rosen says, “Your chances of being successful are higher when you own a franchise.” However, he also warns of the tradeoff. Although becoming part of something bigger that comes with a proven track record and possibly national brand recognition may give you the confidence up front to consider franchise investment, Rosen says you’ll also be “giving up some independence since someone else has created it.” So, if you struggle with “someone else” being at the helm, following a formula, bending the rules, or having your creativity squelched when you can’t change the company tagline and marketing strategy, franchise ownership may not be the best business venture for you. Rosen emphasizes the need for taking ample time to do your research—to investigate and make inquiries—prior to committing, and he encourages using the expertise of a consultant to help you determine your qualifications and whether or not you are sound franchisee material. There is much to consider before turning your daydream into reality. Rosen says you must take into account your interests, your business goals, your lifestyle needs, and the cost, as well as your risk tolerance. It’s essential to consider your

personal skill set and what you are bringing to the table. You need to determine if you’re good with sales, training, and managing people. Is it your goal to be part of the daily operation, or would you rather maintain semi-absentee ownership? What are the initial costs and what are your financing options? Can you acquire sufficient funding and maintain a personal reserve? Will you make good hires? Do you have an advantageous location in mind? Down the road, do you envision multiple units in other places? And one of the most important decisions—which should be based upon your experience, abilities, and passions—is what type of franchise do you want to purchase? “There are six general franchise categories from which to choose,” says Rosen, including “food, automotive, education, retail, B2B (business to business), and B2C (business to consumer).” After you’ve made the industry choice, you need to research the available franchise companies until you find the one that best lines up with your business values and is potentially the best match for you. In other words, says Rosen, “Do you feel comfortable with them? Does their strategic vision correspond with your thinking—can you grow with them?” He says that FranNet maintains “a list of franchises that are carefully vetted before we work with them,” and from that list they look for a franchise that will fit your personal business model. In this process, it’s also important to determine the benefits that a franchisor offers you, its franchisee. Will they supply training and startup

assistance? Is ongoing support available? Rosen says to allow at least three to six months for the decision/ investigation process and that in the end, “It comes down to making a personal decision—can you handle the risk?” When it comes to the financing component, “Purchasing a franchise,” says Rosen, “requires paying something up front in addition to paying royalties,” and he cautions that “the price of the franchise in no way is an indicator of how much money you can make.” So, where is the money coming from? First, find out if financing is available from the franchisor. After that, make a list of other possible sources, such as friends and relatives,

home mortgages, veterans’ loans, bank loans, Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, and finance companies. Rosen says if you have money tied up in an IRA, you may be able to take advantage of it without accruing the penalty linked with early withdrawal. It’s also possible to roll your 401(k) into a business loan, but be aware of any tax implications. And for women franchisees, he says there are “preference programs that provide more favorable lending terms” due to the government’s desire to get women involved in entrepreneurship since they are currently an underrepresented group. After doing considerable research and generating a strategic business plan, Sue Heinle took the leap into franchise ownership and became

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If you’re flirting with franchise ownership, Heinle offers these essential tips: •

ind something you’re passionate about—something about which F you care deeply.

Try to find a company that mirrors your own mission and values.

Hire a business attorney familiar with business law.

Hire an astute business accountant and insurance representative.

tilize the assistance of SCORE, the nonprofit organization that U offers free business consulting.

on the franchise.” She says that purchasing a Visiting Angels franchise allowed her to buy in to something that had already been proven to work. In addition to that, “A franchise gets you up and running much more quickly,” says Heinle, “by providing tools, a marketing program, training, and corporate support.” She adds that Visiting Angels holds an annual conference, one-on-one training, regional group training, and monthly webinars, and also mentions the support she gains from other Visiting Angels franchise owners across the country, some of whom

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president and CEO of Visiting Angels in York, based on a passion she has for serving seniors. Heinle admits that she has an entrepreneurial spirit and says that “being a business owner ignites that.” As an RN, Heinle brought her experience in home healthcare and hospice administration to the niche created after Medicare cut back on its reimbursement regarding recovery care for seniors. “The need was there,” says Heinle, “for those at home recovering from strokes and major surgery who still required non-medical assistance in areas such as dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and errands.” As the idea to strike out on her own to meet these needs began to percolate, Heinle weighed her options: She looked at a franchise model, considered partnership, and thought about her own startup. In the end, “after talking to a lot of folks and doing my due diligence concerning the viability of the business and what was needed in my community, I decided

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have become close friends. Heinle has been a franchise owner for 14 years. In April 2002 she knew she’d have enough financial reserve to take the leap. She quit her job at the end of May and took the summer “off” to build the franchise. She wrote up a business plan, created a budget, and looked for office space. She went through training in September and says, “I opened the doors on Oct. 1, 2002.” She realized that when she went “live,” she was embarking upon a service industry with 24/7 availability expectations. Initially, Heinle says, “I was there

every day.” She has since grown to three offices and says, “Even though I still consult on every case, I work more on the budget, strategic decisions, and on contracts for healthcare insurance.” What she likes about franchise ownership is that she can bring her experience and knowledge to benefit the customer and she can choose to be hands-on. “I don’t operate in a vacuum,” says Heinle, “but the company doesn’t hold me back. I was able to research and pilot programs unique to my community.” That’s why she advises choosing a company that “mirrors your values and your mission.” She says that while doing her research she found other franchises to be very profit driven, while her mission to serve seniors by providing a safe, comfortable environment is in alliance with the Visiting Angels mission. “If I did my job well, I would be able to pay my bills,” she says. After 14 years, Heinle says of her franchise ownership decision, “I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.”

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635 N. 12 th Street, Suite 101, Lemoyne, PA 17043 7 1 7 – 7 2 4 – 9 8 21 dz m mla w .c o m 17043 Additional office locations in Harrisburg and Carlisle, by appointment only.


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Organize Yourself for 6-S By GINA NAPOLI

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f you’re like most business owners, the commodity you try hardest not to waste is time. You may struggle with clutter piling atop surfaces and clocks running too fast. Maybe your space is constrained. The 6-S System is an organizing technique that stems from Japanese manufacturing, but it is relevant to any space that needs to be organized. In English, the 6-S concept translates to Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain, and Safety. Workers in organized spaces perform efficiently and effectively. Implementing a visual-management technique called 6-S will get you organized and help you stay that way. A workspace with 6-S implemented makes it easier to manage time and to detect errors before they reach the customer. Reclaim space and time. Waste less. You’ll notice a difference immediately. You’ll have more space to work unobstructed, helping increase accuracy and speed. Having less clutter keeps items from disappearing. You will save time doing things right the first time, decreasing time re-working defects. You won’t procure an extra widget when you can’t find the first one. Storing excess inventory costs extra money, which you saved by organizing. Start with one area that is disorganized, slow, inaccurate, or

difficult to manage. The area you choose is the scope of your project. Keep the scope manageable. For example, instead of implementing 6-S in an entire warehouse, choose one office workspace. Set aside two uninterrupted days to work on it. Make sure you involve a team of employees throughout the 6-S journey. Employees will more readily buy in and sustain changes if they can offer input to the solution. If changes are just handed to them, they may become your most dedicated saboteurs. The area’s owner will have final responsibility to ensure changes stick. Document your project to keep your team on track. It will also come in handy when you 6-S another area. Toyota, a recognized leader in process improvement, uses the “A3.” This is a visual problem-solving tool that tells the story of your project: defining the problem, applying solutions, and validating the solution with data. Start with a problem statement to define the problem in a measurable way. Instead of “Bernice’s desk is frightening,” try, “It currently takes 24 hours to complete a print order that averages an industry standard of eight hours.” Next is a goal statement that aligns with what your customer needs: an on-time, accurate order. Instead of “Clean this desk so Bernice works

better,” try, “Organize the workspace to meet the customer demand of collating and stapling 6,000 papers per eight-hour workday into 60 binders with fewer than 1 percent errors.” Before you touch anything, take some “before” pictures of the current area. Meet in Bernice’s office. Ask your team to identify the sources of waste. Use the acronym DOWNTIME— another source of waste. What are the sources of Defects (errors)? Is there evidence of Overproduced items that are later wasted? Is there a lot of Waiting between process steps? Are you Not using someone’s talents? What about Transportation? How much Inventory is present? Does your team perceive people using excess Motion in the area when working? Is there Extra processing involved? Take some current-state counts and measurements. Maybe you have to travel a certain distance to and from machinery. Measure that distance.

Time that motion. Are there defective products or broken equipment taking up space? Count them. Six-Step Action Plan Step 1: Sort – Up front, ask the team to establish sort categories to distinguish between needed and unnecessary items. Common categories are (not limited to) needed, excess, scrap, obsolete, and repair. Maybe the categories are according to usage frequency: daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, never. Use color-coded sticky notes or “red tags” to categorize unnecessary items. Then donate, recycle, and discard accordingly. You can find good examples of red tags online. Establish business rules for red-tagged items. Maybe you scan all the papers and discard. You could leave red-tagged items in the break room for people to take home or donate them. Step 2: Set in Order – Discuss what is good about the current layout and what could be improved. Enforce the adage, “A place for everything

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and everything in its place.” Store most frequently used items nearest their point of use. Create a scaled floor-space layout on grid paper. Draw lines and arrows to show movement of material. (This is called a spaghetti diagram.) Where does Bernice move papers, binders, and staples between the storeroom, copier, three-hole puncher, and stapler? Have her walk the team through her process. Use grid paper to sketch improvements into what your new area will look like. Make your changes. Some great tools to help set in order: color codes, pegboards to hang items, shadow boards (draw outlines around items to show where they go), labels, clear signage, folders, bins, checklists, and audit forms. Look for opportunities to integrate visual workflow signals. When someone leaves an empty toner box in the mailbox, Bernice orders more toner. Instead of ordering 20 extra toner cartridges, wasting inventory space and money, store only one.

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Step 3: Shine – Clean the area thoroughly. Set a schedule for routine inspection and maintenance. Maintain cleaning supplies. Assign responsibility.

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Step 4: Standardize – Apply standards so that you keep your changes. Don’t backslide into old habits. Step 5: Sustain – Train current and future employees on how to maintain the standardized workstation and the controls in place. Communicate changes. Make the changes part of your workplace culture. Celebrate success. Step 6: Safety – Implement safety practices and controls to maintain them. Eliminate hazards. Ensure safety equipment is accessible and operational. Draw clear walkways. Paint footprints on floors. Keep safety data sheets and job-hazard analysis sheets accessible. Take “after” pictures. Measure improvements. Notice the value in using tools and diagrams with the team together in the same room. Using your documentation, you can revisit this 6-S effort to look for more improvements. You can replicate your 6-S in a different area in the future.

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Why Can’t I Hire the Right By LUANN AUMENT o you find selecting a new person for your team to be an exercise in futility? Do you rely on your “gut feel” or how much you liked that charismatic candidate, only to be disappointed with a nightmare of an employee? Perhaps it’s an employee you’ve trained and leaves shortly thereafter; a new hire that wreaks havoc on your existing team members; or an imposter who claims to be best thing since sliced bread, but turns out to be all “puff” and no results. The bad news is that recruiting and selecting candidates will continue to be one of your more challenging leadership responsibilities because of baby boomers departing the workforce. The good news is that there is a solid way to improve the outcome of your hiring decisions. What are the steps you should take before you create and disseminate the position posting? After a recent interview, a coaching client told me about their experience with a Fortune 500 company. The interviewer, a high-level manager,

shared that he had not had time to look at the candidate’s resume prior to the meeting. The manager may have thought he was just showing how much responsibility he had, but he came off as winging it and being poorly prepared. Worse than the actual interview, he left the candidate with this perception: If the manager spent no time prepping for the interview or reading a resume, what level of importance was he placing on the decision to have someone join his team? In the bigger picture, this Fortune 500 company exec was competing with other organizations that will take the time, do the prep, and woo the candidate. I realize that leaders have more responsibilities than they may know how to manage; however, other than the financial and process leadership that is so essential in management, what could be more important than who will join your team and how their talents will strengthen your department and organization?

In terms of the steps to improve your process, the devil is in the preparation and details. Measurement If you want to improve something, look at how you are doing with the current selection process. This will provide a baseline for the future. Looking at the last 12 months, what is the annualized turnover rate for your area? If people left the organization, why did they leave? What can you learn from this quick scan of information? As you devise your new selection approach, what needs to be considered? Competencies The simple truth is that you can’t hire the right people if you don’t know or aren’t sure what the absolute success factors are for the open positions. What behaviors, knowledge, skills, abilities, and attributes do existing “successful” employees possess? If you wanted to clone your best employees, what critical success factors (CSFs) do they possess? These characteristics should support your organization’s mission and workplace culture. Notice the first item listed for competencies—behaviors. Today, leaders cannot assume that everyone understands what is expected relative to individual behavior. Technical competencies are learned through education or on the job, whereas behavioral competencies (such as self-awareness, work habits, and values) are usually learned through life experiences. It is important to articulate and define seven to nine competencies that will support the performance and team effectiveness within your organization. These competencies, along with a current job description, will be your best resources for developing solid questions. The Hiring Team Determine who is participating in the interviews and hiring decision. Agree on the criteria or competencies

you will use to make your selection decision. The Process Whether you are interviewing internal or external candidates, by using a structured behavioral-based interviewing (BBI) process and determining the criteria up front, you can make an “apples to apples” comparison of the candidates instead of an “apples to pomegranates” comparison. When you firmly establish your hiring criteria and properly weight each specific competency, you are leveling the playing field for all candidates, whether they are current employees or external applicants. I cannot emphasize enough the need to complete this step before you have someone initially screening the resumes and the interviews begin. Otherwise, if you determine your criteria for the selection decision during the process or at the end, my experience suggests that now the entire decision process is tainted to suit a candidate’s background that someone may prefer to hire. Documentation Design a selection criteria form with definitions of the agreed-upon criteria and a simple rating system to evaluate each candidate’s prior work experience and their actual responses. Behavioral-based Questions Develop specific questions that will shed light on the candidate’s competencies and talents. For example, with a supervisory candidate, you may want to learn about their team-building skills and may ask: “Describe how you have promoted an environment of mutual trust in your work unit.” If there are multiple interviewers, coordinate the questions for each interviewer in advance so that you are not asking the same questions, thereby using time most effectively with each candidate. The Actual Interview Process You have the resume to review

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in advance, so don’t waste valuable meeting time rehashing the resume content. Set aside one-third of the interview meeting for the candidate to share their relevant employment history. Listen for what motivates the candidate in their current and prior positions. Explore the reasons provided for changing employment. Secure the reason for any gaps in the employment history. Two-thirds of the interview should cover behavioral-based questions developed to draw out substantial information on the candidate’s work experiences. Remember that past behavior is often the best predictor of future action! When the candidate answers a question, delve into their experiences. If someone cannot answer a question with substance, it may be that they have no relevant experience to share with you. As you enter the interview to learn more about the potential candidate for your team, you will have reviewed

their qualifications and you will be more confident because you will have done the work (the prep) to lead an excellent meeting and ultimately make a solid hiring decision. After all, what really could be more important for you as a leader than selecting your team! •

LuAnn Aument, SPHR, owns Aument Coaching & Consulting, which specializes in providing HR services in South-Central Pennsylvania. Her passion includes leadership and employee development, conflict resolution, and outplacement career services. Aument is a self-professed “competency” geek and an expert at developing highly successful behavioralbased interviewing processes and workshops. Contact her at aument.luann@ comcast.net.

NEW

2 PM

TIM

-7P E M

Join us at Expo City November 16, 2016 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM

PA Farm Show Complex & Expo Center

Weis Exposition Hall 2300 North Cameron Street, Harrisburg

NEW THIS YEAR

Free Admission

with business card! $5 without

Join us for our 30th Anniversary Celebration Reception Light Hors d’ouvres & Refreshments: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

EXHIBITOR SPACE & SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE Deadline for booth registration: November 7th

For more information, please call (717) 232-4099 or visit www.HarrisburgRegionalChamber.org/Expo 12

~ October 2016 | BUSINESSWoman


Great gifts for everyone on your list. Call and get started on your holiday shopping. Schedule a “party” or make a purchase today! GIF T FOR:

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Fashions, Fun, Exhibitors, and More – It’s All at the Women’s Expos!

omen’s Expo Cumberland County

E By CHRISTIANNE RUPP

We are looking forward to meeting you at the women’s expo! Highlights for the Lebanon County women’s expo, to be held Oct. 1 at the Lebanon Expo Center from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., were included in last month’s issue of BusinessWoman. However, I do want to mention again that it will be a funfilled day with much to see and do while there. Don’t miss what’s happening on the center stage: soap making by Gina Napoli and Soap-O-Therapy – makes great gifts for teachers and relatives; the ever-popular fashion show by Christopher & Banks | CJ Banks – the inside scoop on what’s trending; tips on applying makeup by Justin Wire – quick makeup tips that will take you from day to night; and two important seminars by experts from our event partner, WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital – the why behind neck pain, headaches, hip pain, and fibromyalgia and the new technology of 3-D mammography. Also, stave off the flu this season by getting your flu shot while you’re at the expo! And next month you’ll want to mark your calendar for the Cumberland County women’s expo, to be held on Nov. 12 at the Carlisle Expo Center from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Rubi Nicholas, Nick@Nite’s “Funniest Mom in America” winner and stand-up comedian, will be joining us. She’s one funny lady! You’ll laugh until your sides hurt. Local clothing designer Sheila Frank will be showing her own fabulous creations, everything from dresses that take you from day to night to bridal gowns; special-occasion wear for Holy Communion, prom, mother of the bride, bridesmaids, and galas; and

even some costumes! Sounds like great fun. I’m sure you’re familiar with the delicacies from the Carlisle Bakery. Eric Bell, owner of Carlisle Bakery, will be decorating treats and sharing his talents during his cake demonstration. He’s been known to draw a name and give the fully decorated cake to a lucky audience member to take home. Stauffers of Kissel Hill will show us how to create a great-looking container garden for the holidays. They make it look easy by telling us what to use and where to place the embellishments. Perhaps this year your unique container garden will enhance

your entryway or tabletop. And Giant will also be joining us again and providing tips on how to survive the holidays without gaining weight. Castlerigg Wine Shop from Carlisle will be offering wine tastings to guests over 21. Stop by and have a sample. You may just want to add it to your list of favorite wines! Both events will have representatives from a wide variety of industries who will be sharing information about their products or services, including health and wellness, skin care, travel, home improvements, entertainment, technology, and nutrition. You name it, you’ll find it at the women’s expo. Plus, there are many businesses in attendance selling items such as jewelry, clothing, foods, and accessories that would make great gifts. Think holidays … they really are just around the corner. Don’t pass up the opportunity for free spa treatments and screenings being offered. This is a day to think about yourself and find ways to relax. Log on at www.aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com for free advance guest registration ($5 at the door) or for more information about participating as a sponsor or exhibitor.

Visit www.aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com for free advance guest registration ($5 at the door) or for more information about participating as a sponsor or exhibitor. Hosted by:

717.285.1350

BUSINESSWoman

For guest registration, or more information, go to:

aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com


A

Suite Renovation

lifestyle

By STEVEN KOPFINGER Photography by Colin Rupp

T

here is an old saying that “a man’s home is his castle,” a haven after a busy day. Well, throw that out the window. Women work just as hard, and they need to create a place to unwind. Dr. Nina Elliott, with the help of a local architect and design firm, has done just that. Her home is now a showcase for a redesigned master bedroom, with an

adjoining walk-in closet (complete with a convenient laundry space) and a killer master bathroom. “I wanted a sanctuary to relax and call my own place,” says Elliott, who works as an emergency room physician with PinnacleHeath Harrisburg Hospital. Of her commute, Elliott says “it’s not too bad—about 45 minutes.” But, still, one needs to wind down. Enter TONO Group, based on James Street in Lancaster.

TONO Group is comprised of a family of businesses: RETRO Development, TONO Architects, PROTO Construction, and Interiors by DECO. Such teamwork makes it easier for Angelique Miller, director of Interiors by DECO, which is TONO Group’s procurement company “for all things décor, furniture, [and] artwork related,” as Miller describes it. “Nina had an idea of what

she was thinking the space should be,” says Miller. “It was my job to make sure all her wants and needs were incorporated into the space, and it was a place that she would want to spend time in and relax,” Miller recalls. “We worked together to create a color scheme that she loved as well as selections of finishes.” But first, a little history is in order.

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lifestyle

Left: Elegantly renovated walk-in closet that doubles as laundry space. Right: Master bedroom with feature wall, concealing the walk-in closet and laundry room behind.

Elliott, a native of State College, has lived in her home for five years. The house was built in 1990, and “I really liked the house the way it was,” she says. “But there were some things that needed to be changed.” Let’s start with the bathroom. It was nice, Elliott says, but it “originally had a huge black tub [in the master bathroom].” She remembers thinking, “Really 1990s!” and “That has to go.” How did the big, black, party-size tub meet its fate? “I guess they cut it up in pieces!” Elliott laughs.

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A smaller—but still generous— white oval bathtub replaced it. It’s a nice place to soak, but Elliott confesses, “I had in my head a walk-in shower … I’m a real shower person.” And what a shower it is in which to wash the cares of the day away. It’s not only big, but it also has Bluetooth audio. “I can listen to NPR” —National Public Radio— “or whatever,” Elliott says. “I wanted a big shower with jets!” Elliott confesses of the several showerheads. It’s a perfect respite for a doctor who sometimes does night shifts.

~ October 2016 | BUSINESSWoman

An unusual extra-large vanity sink, which, despite its size, is quite understated, is crowned by twin oval mirrors that light up. Now let’s move into the bedroom. It’s a spacious, airy room with high ceilings and a dividing wall that is open at the top, so it isn’t entirely separated from the adjoining walk-in closet, laundry, and bathroom space. “The bedroom was actually changed,” Elliott says of the area. “The walk-in [closet] was in a different place. The entire suite is more conducive and flows

better now.” Elliott says of her project with TONO, “They took out a bunch of walls.” Doors were rearranged. It was the PROTO division of TONO Group that did the construction work, Miller notes. That’s where that teamwork kicks in. “In regards to working for a company that has four entities, we find that this creates a ‘seamless’ experience for our clients,” Miller sums up. It’s literally everything under one roof. Elliott had to sleep in another bedroom in her house for a while,


and “I had to find someplace else to do my laundry!” But, while temporarily displaced, Elliott was impressed with working with TONO. The entire rebuild “basically started in midApril and was finished by mid-

June,” she says. “They worked hard not to be disruptive. They respected my space,” Elliott says. Asked what she liked best about dealing with the firm, Elliott says: “Just the quality of the

work involved.” The entire project cost five figures, and Elliott remembers thinking, “Wow! That’s a lot!” But considering the work involved, the price “wasn’t really far off the mark … You get what you pay for.”

Elliott isn’t finished with her home improvements. She’s looking to having work done on her kitchen and dining room area. She intends on working with TONO again. After all, a busy woman’s home is her castle.

BUSINESSWomanPA.com

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lifestyle

A sweet bathroom.


Tickets are available online now! MasonDixonWineTrail.com

NOVEMBER

2016

Wine Just Off The Vine

12-13 & 19-20

17

30% OFF

any hair or nail service.

Discount taken from most expensive service. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Free onsite parking. All services performed by supervised students.

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717-299-0200

Job placement assistance provided to all graduates. Financial aid available to those who qualify. Scholarships available. For gainful employment disclosures go to www.lancasterschoolofcosmetology.com

www.lancasterschoolofcosmetology.com 18

~ October 2016 | BUSINESSWoman

reasons to sip, savor & explore


Financial Issues to Consider Before Retiring

F

By TAMI NOLL RUSSO

COBRA health insurance rules may provide you additional flexibility. COBRA requires employers with 20 or more employees to offer a continuation of its group health plan for up to 18 months upon leaving work. Planning will help you mitigate

healthcare costs too, particularly early in retirement. Perhaps it makes sense to have knee replacement done before you retire if you expect a step down in insurance coverage? What about your medications? Maybe there are more cost-effective options you should be looking into? Keep in mind that your physician may not know the exact drugs your health plan (or new health plan) covers or what your copays are. It is important to understand what coverage you have,

what coverage you will need, and all the corresponding costs. Gone are the days of a healthy individual retiring at 55 and purchasing a PPO health plan from an internationally recognized insurance provider for less than $200 per month, projected to cost $250 per month at age 60 and $300 per month at age 64. A similar PPO health plan from the same insurer now would cost about $500 per month at age 55, $600 per month at age 60, and $665 per month at age 64. On the other hand, if you have any existing medical conditions, you can now retire and purchase health insurance regardless of your diagnoses. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides health insurance regardless of health history. Before the ACA, unhealthy people would be denied coverage. Premiums have skyrocketed to make up for the influx of medical claims for people who had been putting off treatment, surgeries, and medications because they didn’t want to pay the cost. Social Security is a pension benefit, indexed for inflation, that is calculated based on 35 years of earnings and your age. Regardless of income level, Social Security benefits are important to everyone. Understanding the math behind the benefits and being honest about your longevity (and your spouse’s longevity) will make the decision on when to start social benefits easier. It is important to know your full retirement age (FRA) and the corresponding penalty applied for taking benefits at age 62 (up to 30 percent). On the other hand, waiting past FRA earns you a delayed retirement credit of 8 percent (if born in 1943 or later) on your benefit. In some situations, Social Security will be the only source of income, and the choice of when to start receiving the benefit will be directly tied to your retirement date. Coordinating benefits with your

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lifestyle

or most workers, “when to retire” is a voluntary decision; for others, the decision may be forced upon them from uncontrollable influences at work or home. Regardless of how you get there, having a prepared retirement plan could help ease anxieties later when that day occurs. And to start the ball rolling, the three financial issues that must be addressed in any retirement plan are health insurance, Social Security, and cash flow. Also, keep in mind that income taxes will be an underlying consideration that will impact all aspects of the plan. Health insurance—and its corresponding premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance—must be a primary focus when developing a retirement plan. If you are lucky enough to have retiree health insurance to age 65, this may be a brief discussion. If you retire less than 18 months’ coverage before turning age 65,


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spouse’s continues to be important, especially when there has been an income variance. We may see one spouse collecting at age 62 and another spouse (the higher income earner) deferring his or her benefit to age 70. Know what your options are, and make an informed decision based on your health and finances. Can you afford to retire? That may be the most critical question of all. Everyone views retirement differently, and each difference has a corresponding cost. The cost of healthcare and the level of Social Security benefits received will be factors in your budget. Start by tracking your expenses for three months. How much money are you spending? Now adjust those regular expenses for your retirement vision: travelling, sports, eating out, volunteering, or moving. In a perfect world you would have enough guaranteed income to offset your needs. For example, pensions, Social Security, income

annuities, and potentially rental income would be sufficient to pay for housing expenses, utilities, healthcare, food, insurances, transportation, and taxes. You could use any remaining balance to invest—based on your risk tolerance—to provide for your “wants.” Keep in mind that money you expect to spend over the first five years shouldn’t be invested in the stock market. A successful retirement plan comes down to honesty and transparency. Working with an experienced certified public accountant who focuses on retirement planning may be the best way to sift through all the various financial products and approaches and help you decide the best course for you. • Tami Noll Russo, CPA, CFP, CLU, is a certified financial planner at Noll Financial Services in Middletown, Pa. www.nollfinancialservices.com.

The Gals Cleaning Service Professional Commercial Cleaning Medical Room Sanitation Window Cleaning Services Industrial Cleaning Floor Care Services Bonded and Insured

(717) 645-9633

www.thegalscleaningservice.com

Family Owned and Operated Since 2005!

Women Owned Businesses bring vitality to your community. Please support the women owned businesses in your town. To find out how you can access the resources necessary to start or grow your own business, contact the Community First Fund office nearest you.

Business Financing, Business Counseling, Business Success. Lancaster/Lebanon York/Adams Capital Region/Harrisburg Reading/Berks 717.393.2351 717.848.3863 717.920.1520 610.685.4940 www.communityfirstfund.org

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~ October 2016 | BUSINESSWoman


Breast Cancer Risks, Symptoms, and New Revelations on Early Detection By KIMBERLY BLAKER

“T

here can be life after breast cancer. The prerequisite is early detection.”

– Ann Jillian Twelve percent of women today will develop invasive breast cancer, and more than 40,000 will die from it this year alone, reports Breastcancer.org. That’s why a refresher course on early detection and keeping up to date on latest studies is so important and the reason for Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October).

who have never had a child have a slight increased risk over those who have had more than one child. Yet, women who give birth to only one child at the age of 35 or older will have a slightly increased risk over those who had no children. Women who breastfeed reduce their risk of breast cancer, as SGKF explains. And the greater the total length of time spent breastfeeding during childrearing years, the greater the protection. Oral contraceptives, according to the ACS, slightly increase risk. But once a woman has been off contraceptives for a period of 10 years, that risk is no longer present. Hormone therapy for menopausal women may also increase the risk for those women with a uterus. Because estrogen alone can increase risk of uterine cancer, progesterone is typically prescribed along with estrogen. This may then increase breast cancer risk. Women without a uterus are prescribed estrogen alone, and therefore are not at increased risk, says ACS. Alcohol is a risk factor. Having one drink daily increases risk only slightly, while the greater the consumption, the

greater the risk. More than five drinks daily increases risk for other cancers as well. Breastcancer.org says smoking also slightly increases risk for breast cancer. After menopause, being overweight or obese increases risk as well, says the ACS. But as the organization explains, the risk of breast cancer related to weight is complex, and those who were overweight as a child may not be affected. The distribution of excess body fat may also play a role, and waistarea fat may be more significant in increasing risk than fat in other parts of the body, such hips and thighs. Exercise, however, has been shown to decrease risk, according to a study by the Women’s Health Initiative, which found just 1.25 to 2.5 hours of brisk walking each week can reduce risk by 18 percent. Several factors that have previously been claimed to increase risk factors have now been disproven or deemed highly improbable, according to ACS. These include antiperspirants, bras, abortion or miscarriage, and breast implants. Factors that remain unclear because studies have produced conflicting

results include diet and vitamins, environmental chemicals, tobacco smoke, and night work. These factors will require further study to determine if there is any relationship. Symptoms There are several signs to watch for that could be indicative of breast cancer, though most of these symptoms could also be caused by something other than breast cancer such as caffeine, menstrual periods, infection, or other illness or factors. If you do notice any of these symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider to rule out breast cancer. Symptoms to watch for, says SGKF, include: •A new lump or breast change that feels different from the rest of your breast •A new lump or breast change that feels different from your other breast •Y ou feel something different that you’ve not previously felt •N ipple discharge that occurs without squeezing the nipple •N ipple discharge that occurs in only one breast •B loody or clear discharge, rather than milky •T hickening, a lump or hard knot

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Risk Factors There are several risk factors for breast cancer, as identified by the American Cancer Society. Some of these factors are unchangeable but should be taken into account in developing a screening plan. Other risk factors are lifestyle related. Therefore, women, especially those already at higher risk, should consider those factors she can control. Still, the simple presence of risk factors does not mean a woman will go on to develop breast cancer. Likewise, lack of risk factors doesn’t mean a woman won’t develop the disease. For this reason, all women should be aware of the risks and symptoms and what screening does and doesn’t do. Some factors that are unchangeable and increase risk, according to the ACS, are female gender, aging, genetics, race and ethnicity (white women are at slightly higher risk), dense breast tissue, a benign breast condition such as fibrosis or others, greater number of menstrual cycles, previous chest radiation, and exposure to the drug diethylstilbestrol. Other risk factors, however, can often be controlled. Pregnancy and childbirth affect risk. But it isn’t all one way or the other. According to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, having more than one child provides increased protection with each successive birth. Women


inside the breast or in underarm area • Breast swelling, warmth, or redness • Change in breast shape or size • Breast skin dimpling or puckering • A sore or rash on the nipple, particularly scaly or itchy • Your nipple or other parts of your breast pulling inward • Sudden nipple discharge • Pain in one spot that doesn’t go away

• Chemotherapy & Infusional Services • 24/7 Care • Locations on the East and West Shore • On-Site Laboratory & Pharmacy • Patient Care Coordinator in each office

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Harrisburg office 4518 Union Deposit Road Harrisburg, PA 17111 717.526.1030

www.AndrewsPatel.com 22

~ October 2016 | BUSINESSWoman

Early Detection and Screenings Screenings are an important means for detecting breast cancer, ideally in its early stages. Women have long been encouraged to do a monthly selfexamination. But a major study reported in The Journal of the National Cancer Institute in 2002 concluded breast self-examinations have played no role in improving cancer detection. Today, there is much controversy over the importance of a BSE for detecting cancer. Clinical breast exams, however, are still recommended. For women with average risk factors, these should be done every one to three years starting at age 20. At age 40, clinical exams should be done annually. Women with greater risk factors should have exams more often and consult with their doctor for the recommended frequency. Mammography, believed to be one of the most crucial tools in early detection for decades, first started in the 1960s. Early trials found mammography reduced breast cancer death rates by 25 percent. But Peggy Orenstein points out in her 2013 New York Times article, “The Feel-Good War on Breast Cancer,” such statistics have overstated mammography’s role in the reduction of breast cancer death rates. This is because increased use of mammograms occurred along with much-improved treatments, and medical experts believe treatments have likely played the greater role in reducing deaths. For this reason, mammograms have come under fire over the past couple of years as more studies have revealed the debatable usefulness of this screening technique, at least for younger women. This is because breast cancer and detection is more

complex than it was once understood to be. It is now known there are at least four types and subtypes of breast cancer. Mammography often does not detect the more lethal types until they are in the later stages. Add to this that mammograms result in significant over-diagnosis, leading to unnecessary treatment, which comes with its own risks. “Ductal carcinoma in-situ is also referred to as noninvasive, or Stage 0, breast cancer. It is primarily diagnosed by screening mammogram, as it often does not form a palpable lump,” Dr. Deanna Attai, president of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, said. “DCIS accounts for approximately 20 percent of mammographically detected breast cancers. As screening mammography has become more prevalent, the rate of DCIS detection has increased.” Some medical experts say DCIS is really not a form of cancer at all, and referring to it as such results in overly aggressive treatment. The likelihood of low-grade DCIS developing into invasive breast cancer is only 16 percent, said Attai, while high-grade DCIS has a 60 percent chance of developing into invasive breast cancer over 10 years. The problem, however, is there is currently no way to determine which cases of DCIS will ultimately develop into breast cancer. This creates a major dilemma. Still, what is known is that among women in the United States, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths. Though various studies reveal mammography screening seems to have very limited usefulness among women under 40, it is nonetheless moderately effective for detection in women ages 40-49, and is most effective for those in the 50-69 age group. There is no one-size-fits-all plan that works best. Therefore, mammography screening for breast cancer should be based on informed decisions and individualized plans that take into account a woman’s age, risk factors, and both the advantages and disadvantages of mammograms for each woman’s unique situation.


‘You Have

Cancer’

By KAT SCHOENKNECHT

H

ow far back must one go in one’s life to recognize the impact of having been diagnosed with

wellness

cancer? In my mid-20s, I was stationed at an Army medical center on a surgical ward as a “combat medical specialist,” watching, in admiration, the registered nurse who would ultimately influence my career decision. I knew I wanted to be just like her. She had confidence, commanded respect from the physicians and other staff nurses, and knew how to get things done. It wasn’t for several years, but, eventually, after being discharged from the U.S. Army, I did go back to school for my nursing degree. I was thrilled to graduate in December 2000 from Millersville University with my bachelor’s in nursing following the completion of my associate’s degree from what was then the Lancaster Institute for Health Education (Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences). My first position as an RN was in a family practice setting. Two short months after starting my new career, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was scared to death. I was 43 years old and in the best shape of my life. I was broadsided by this news. I’m pretty sure my fears were being driven by the unknown. Obviously, I had learned about cancer in nursing school and had even been exposed to people who had been diagnosed and were

going through treatment for cancer. But I never thought I would someday be that person. My biggest concerns were, “How is this going to affect my status quo? Will I be able to continue my career?” Luckily, my surgeon introduced me to another breast cancer survivor who graciously shared her experience with me and helped me to realize that limitations are what we place on ourselves. It was at that moment that I made a conscious decision to not let this diagnosis, and all the interruptions it brought (visits to the doctor(s), surgery, chemotherapy, shots, radiation, etc.) interfere with the life I currently had going on. The “life I currently had going on” at that time consisted of being a mother to two very busy teenage boys; working 30-plus hours per week; going to the gym three to four times per week; taking piano and voice lessons; being an active member of my church council, church worship and visitation committees, and church choir; as well as being on the board for the local Boy Scout troop to which my sons belonged. Breast cancer did interfere somewhat with “the life I currently had going on.” But I was determined to keep that interference to a minimum. After completing my surgery, and while going through chemotherapy and radiation, I was able to continue to do all of the things I had been doing prior to diagnosis, with a

Kat, right, and her husband.

little extra help from my husband (of course!). I will have to admit, the housework did suffer a little, but thankfully, I was, and still am, blessed with a man who can cook! After completing chemotherapy

and radiation treatments, I was eventually led to pursue nursing at the Lancaster Cancer Center, where I had received my chemotherapy treatments. I was familiar with the staff there and truly admired them.

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It was my goal to join their team, and I was thrilled to be allowed to join them in January 2004. Initially, I was not sure I had made the right decision, for the responsibility was quite daunting, but I soon realized that I was indeed in the right place. One day, a newly diagnosed breast cancer patient made her way back to the chemotherapy infusion suite. I was immediately reminded of all of those feelings I had experienced not so very long ago when I was first diagnosed and facing the unknown. I approached the young woman, embraced her, and allowed her to cry. Today, she introduces me as her “angel.” What a tremendous honor! Being allowed to work amongst this population is one of the many blessings I have received as a result of having walked my own cancer journey. It is truly a privilege to be intimately involved in their personal experiences. The diagnosis of cancer has

had a great impact on my life and the choices I have made. I will always be grateful to cancer for changing my life in ways I could never have imagined. My journey was made so much easier by allowing myself to be in the driver’s seat. Perhaps it was because of my determination (or stubborn nature) to continue life, preserving my status quo, or the support from the people who surrounded me who continually told me how I inspired them, but I took their comments to heart. And instead of letting my diagnosis dictate to me how things would be, I chose to use my diagnosis as a blessing (a gift). With my determination, I embraced that gift and used it to ease others’ fears. I truly hope you never have to hear those three words—“You’ve got cancer” —but know that if you do, it does not always have to mean giving up “life as you currently know it.”

wellness

Is it finally time to do something about joint pain? If hip and knee pain or stiffness is keeping you from doing the things you love, learn what you can do to help you get back to your active life. Join us for a free joint pain seminar to learn about treatment options, including exercise, weight control, joint replacement and more. Call 717-291-8498 or register online at LancasterHealthEducation.com. Dates:

Thursdays October 13 • November 10 • December 8

Time:

6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Location: Lancaster Regional Medical Center Auditorium 250 College Avenue, Lancaster

Lancaster Regional Medical Center is owned in part by physicians.

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9/8/16 5:26 PM


will have a collection box at the

Lancaster County

Nov. 15, 2016 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Spooky Nook Sports • 2913 Spooky Nook Road, Manheim The Job Fair brings job-seeking veterans of all ages, active military, and their families together with employers who can benefit from this rich source of talent.

Lancaster

November 15, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Spooky Nook Sports 2913 Spooky Nook Road, Manheim

Jumpstart your career!

Skip the line – register to attend online!

www.VeteransExpo.com

Help us spread the word to the guys in your life!

MEN’S

Nov. 19, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. York Expo Center Memorial Hall West

Food • Microbrews • Wines • Cigars • Automotive Fitness Outdoor • Adventure • Sports • And so much more!

Please bring your new, unwrapped toys! The Toys for Tots program began in 1947 and is sponsored by the Marine Corps Reserve. The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. Over its lifespan, the Marine Toys for Tots Program distributed over 512 million toys to over 237 million less fortunate children.

www.ToysForTots.com www.VeteransExpo.com is brought to you by OLP Events • www.olpevents.com • 717.285.1350

Join other businesswomen at monthly luncheon workshops to learn more about achieving success in business.

October 11, 2016 We Can Do It! How Female Leaders Run Male-Dominated Industries Featuring a panel discussion of women who run those companies in our community ... For Registration information visit our webpage: www.wbcoyork.com October Program Sponsored by:

Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available

EpicMensExpo.com 717.285.1350

Educating Women on Best Practices in Business www.wbcoyork.com BUSINESSWomanPA.com

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October 2016

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Watch

women to

Lynne DeMers-Hunt has been promoted

Mariah Hertz joined Caskey Group, a

Nicole Kindler has been hired as a

Julie Lavetan was recently hired

Joette Willey has been promoted to chief financial officer (CFO) for The DOCEO Companies. She will oversee all financial and human resource management for The DOCEO Companies, which consists of DOCEO Office Solutions, DOCEO Creative, and DOCEO Growth Partners.

Mary Wilt has been hired as assistant vice

from account group manager to vice president and director of account service for Godfrey. In addition to overseeing Godfrey’s account management team, DeMers-Hunt has also been appointed to Godfrey’s senior leadership team.

York-based commercial printing and marketing company, as a Web/data integration associate. Hertz received her bachelor’s degree in graphic design from York College of Pennsylvania.

by DOCEO Office Solutions as vice president of technology solutions. Her prior accomplishments have prepared her to thrive at DOCEO and help customers with more than just software solutions. Lavetan is responsible for all software and technology initiatives.

physician assistant to the professional team at Urology of Central PA. Kindler has five years of experience in urgent care and family medicine.

president and regional branch manager for Members 1st Federal Credit Union of the South Region. Wilt has 19 years of banking experience and was most recently vice president, retail market manager at Metro Bank.

Applause

ACHIEVEMENTS &

Pam Cook, outside sales professional at FASTSIGNS® of

York, received the Silver Sales Award at the 2016 FASTSIGNS Outside Sales Summit. With more than 615 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS centers worldwide, only 16 outside sales professionals received this award.

Belco employees recently participated in the MIRACLE JEANS DAY for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Over 50 Belco employees participated, donating $725 for the organization. Participating employees wore jeans and CMN t-shirts. Belco also donated a $300 check to Our Lady of Angels Little League team as part of the Little League fundraiser. The Little League teams helped raise money for their associations.

Celebrate your achievements! Did you or someone in your organization get a promotion? Did you hire someone spectacular? Did you or your company receive an award? BusinessWoman magazine would love to let the world know! Upload your picture(s) and information at: businesswomanpa.com/career-moves-achievements

connections

Email your announcements of career advancements and professional new hires to crupp@onlinepub.com. Photos should be saved as a tiff, jpeg, pdf or eps at 300 dpi. Mail to: BUSINESSWOMAN, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512. Photos sent through mail will not be returned. Please – no duplicate releases.

Don’t miss another issue!

Get businessWoman delivered right to your door. Subscribe online at BusinessWomanPA.com 26

~ October 2016 | BUSINESSWoman


meet and

Greet

American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) Camelot Chapter 6 p.m. 3rd Monday of the month Radisson Hotel Harrisburg, Camp Hill Marianne Troy, President 717.761.9013 mariannetroy@gmail.com www.abwacamelot.com Lancaster Area Express Network 7:15 – 9 a.m. 3rd Wednesday of the month Lancaster Country Club 1466 New Holland Pike, Lancaster Gail Tomlinson 717.715.2595 tomlinson.gail@comcast.net www.LAEN-ABWA.org Lebanon Valley Chapter 6 p.m. 4th Wednesday of the month Hebron Fire Hall 701 E. Walnut St., Lebanon Penny Donmoyer 717.383.6969 www.abwalebanonpa.com Penn Square Chapter 11:45 a.m. – 1 p.m. 1st Thursday of the month Hamilton Club 106 E. Orange St., Lancaster Laurie Bodisch, president 717.571.8567 lbodisch@fult.com www.abwapennsquare.org Wheatland – Conestoga Chapter 6 p.m. 1st Tuesday of the month Heritage Hotel 500 Centerville Road, Lancaster Kimberly Warner, President kwarner@murrayins.com www.abwa-wc.org Women @ Work Express Network 11:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. 2nd Thursday of the month Heritage Hotel 500 Centerville Road, Lancaster Diane Brooks diane@virtualbizzassistant.com www.abwalancaster.com

Shippensburg Women’s Area Networking (SWAN) Noon 1st Wednesday of the month Rotating location Amanda Ridgway, President shipswan@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/shipswan

Executive Women International Harrisburg Chapter 5:30 p.m. 3rd Thursday of the month Rotating location Deb Pierson dpierson@piersoncci.com www.ewiharrisburg.org

Women Inspiring Success Express Network 7 – 9 a.m. 2nd Tuesday of the month Various locations Wanda Stiffler 717.891.7808 wls1211@hotmail.com

Insurance Professionals of Lancaster County (IPLC) 5:45 p.m. 3rd Tuesday of the month, Sept. – May Heritage Hotel 500 Centerville Road, Lancaster Krista Reed, Treasurer kreed@gunnmowery.com www.internationalinsuranceprofessionals.org/ group/117

Women’s Business Center Organization (WBCO) 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 2nd Tuesday of the month Sept. through April Alumni Hall – West Campus York College of PA 441 Country Club Road, York Lynne Breil, Executive Director lynne@theprofessionaledgeinc.com Julie Sterner, Administrator jsterner@ycp.edu www.wbcoyork.org

International Association of Administrative Professionals Capital Region LAN 5:30 p.m. 3rd Monday of the month Holiday Inn Harrisburg East 4751 Lindle Road, Harrisburg Pam Newbaum pneubaum@pinnaclehealth.org 717.782.5787 www.iaap-harrisburg-pa.org

Women’s Capital Area Networking (WeCAN) 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 3rd Wednesday of the month West Shore Country Club 100 Brentwater Road, Camp Hill Abeer Allen, President 717.514.4449 info@wecanconnect.org www.wecanconnect.org Women’s Independent Networking Group (WING) Noon 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month Wyndam Garden 200 Louck Road, York Lisa Barshinger 717.747.6393 info@wingofyork.com www.wingofyork.com Women’s Network of York 11:30 a.m. 3rd Tuesday of the month Out Door Country Club 1157 Detwiler Drive, York Lori Detter, President president@wnyork.com www.wnyork.com

Hershey LAN 5:30 p.m. 2nd Tuesday of the Month Hershey Lodge 325 University Drive, Hershey 717.508.1710 Sherry Hoover shoover@hersheys.com www.hershey-iaap.org Pennsylvania Public Relations Society 5:30 p.m. Last Thursday of the month Erin Kanter, President pprshbg@gmail.com www.pprs-hbg.org

BUSINESSWomanPA.com

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October 2016

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connections

Yellow Breeches Chapter 6 p.m. 4th Wednesday of the month Comfort Suites 10 S. Hanover St., Carlisle Kerina DeMeester kerina1011@gmail.com

Central PA Association for Female Executives (CPAFE) 1st Wednesday of each month Refer to the website for the meeting location Adrienne Toman, President 717.713.7255 info@cpafe.org www.cpafe.org


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~ lifestyle ~ wellness ~ connections


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