February 2019
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Inside
WHAT’S 4 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HomeServices
Homesale Realty Thinking of selling or buying a home...
Deal with
DanYelle
7 Tax cuts and jobs act
How it will impact small businesses.
9 pass-through deduction
What the new deduction may mean for you.
11 the gift of gratitude
Local ninth-grader collects donations for charities.
12 women’s expo
Highlights for the upcoming Dauphin County Women’s Expo.
13 Divorcing?
Coaching can help.
13+ years of experience Effectively communicates the entire process Gives each client the personal attention they deserve Licensed in Maryland and Pennsylvania
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Let me start by saying I can go on and on about my home buying experience with DanYelle. She is impeccable! I have never dealt with a realtor so genuine, caring and very thorough. The combination of her top notch professionalism and personality makes her one of a kind! DanYelle is more than just a realtor. She is very knowledgeable about every aspect of the real estate business. She is definitely an asset to Berkshire Hathaway. Thank you so much DanYelle for going above and beyond to help me achieve my goal to becoming a homebuyer again. I am so grateful for you!
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15 Divorce and bankruptcy
How to handle divorce with bankruptcy.
17 heart disease
How stress can affect women’s heart health.
Š 2018 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchise of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.Ž Equal Housing Opportunity
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18 weight loss in the workplace
Weight loss and wellness programs at work.
20 losing weight
And hoping not to find it.
22 women to watch
New hires and promotions.
23 achievements & applause
Awards and accomplishments.
23 meet and greet
Regional networking events and meetings. February 2019
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Karen Steyers Not Just a Lot of Hot Air
THE GIFT OF GRATITUDE WOMEN, STRESS, AND THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE
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5 cover story Karen Steyers, owner of Hooplas Etc., can make any event more colorful with Hooplas’ impressive balloon creations. Steyers learned a lot about how important even the littlest details are in making an event successful while working at Walt Disney World for 15 years. She’ll put her creative juices to work when designing a centerpiece, archway, or a sculpture to add pizzazz and panache to your special occasion.
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Editor’S
Note
ow’s your New Year’s resolution going? I hope you’re still on track for whatever it was you committed to doing or accomplishing. Did you know that 80 percent of resolutions fail by the second week of February? That means if you’re still committed to your resolution at the end of February, you’re part of the small 20 percent of us who persist that long. Will you be part of the mere 8 percent who follow through on their resolution for the entire year? If weight loss is on your mind, you may be like me and wondering what diet will work. Should you “diet”? How can you lose weight and not find it again? A local health and wellness coach gives some insight as to why we don’t lose weight and what we can do actually realize our goals. If your workplace is interested in its employees’ overall health, you may want to consider instituting a weight loss and wellness program for your employees or colleagues. Find out how to implement such a program why it’s worth doing. Are you wondering what the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act means for your small business? There are some changes that could affect your business, depending on how it is set up. Learn what some of the major changes are in the tax plan and what the new “pass-through” deduction provision may mean for you. It’s the month of February, Valentine’s Day and all, and may everyone in a romantic relationship find happiness on Feb. 14 and forever. Of course, bliss is not always the case, and a divorce may be the answer. Have you ever
February 2019 Vol. 16 - No. 2
PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER
Donna K. Anderson
heard of a divorce coach? A relatively new resource in the divorce process, a divorce coach can help clients define goals and strategize their next steps in life. Find out what types of issues you might take to a divorce coach. The last thing you want to deal with in an already stressful divorce situation is bankruptcy. But when finances are already ugly, divorce can make them uglier and nastier. Learn more about how to handle divorce and bankruptcy—what steps should be taken first, what your obligations are in bankruptcy, and more. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women. Are you taking steps to reduce your risks? A poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking all increase your risk, but not coping with stress can also add to it. Exercise is like a 2-for-1—it’s not only good for you physically, it’s also a great way to reduce stress. Find out why stress relief is vital to your well-being. Coming up on Feb. 23 at the Hershey Lodge is the Dauphin County Women’s Expo. This is a perfect time to call your mom, sisters, and friends, or bring your guy and enjoy some time out together. Learn more about what is available in your community and so much more. Read more about the day’s happenings on page 12. Please join us to de-stress, mingle, munch, and have fun!
“”
The secret of getting ahead is getting started. – Sally Berger
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Story
CAREER
COVER
Not Just a Lot of Hot Air
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By LYNDA HUDZICK
hat comes to mind when you hear the word balloons? Birthday party decorations or perhaps overpriced souvenirs from the amusement park. Yet for Karen Steyers, owner of Hooplas Etc.,
balloons are much more than that. In her capable hands, and that of her team, they become works of art. Steyers grew up in Camp Hill and graduated from Towson University with a degree in international marketing. After
graduation, she moved to Florida, where she enjoyed a 15-year career at Walt Disney World. “While I held many different positions while working at Walt Disney World, my favorite was being a wedding event manager,” she said. “We got to plan and execute
all of the details for destination weddings at Disney.” Those experiences gave her a solid background in event planning and also provided great customer service training. After moving into the field of supplemental insurance for 14
Karen Steyers sits with her inflatable friends in front of the hundreds of balloons she uses for her creations.
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years, she was ready for another change. Steyers said she was excited to learn that Hooplas Etc., based in Lemoyne, was for sale because she knew it would provide her with the chance to “use the creative side of my brain again … This definitely gives me that opportunity.” Before purchasing the business, Steyers sought out some “wise counsel in reviewing the financials, etc., but I also knew it was up to me to move the business forward and create my own niche in the market.” Part of that is to educate people: What she and her creative staff do is far different from just a simple balloon on a string. “We put a lot of effort into finding new sources for supplies and pushing our own designs to be bigger and better every time,” she said. Hooplas Etc.’s website boasts a large and colorful photo gallery of some of the many exciting displays Steyers and her team have
created for a plethora of event types. Clients can choose anything from balloon arches and columns to custom-designed sculptures and one-of-a-kind centerpieces. “My favorite part of working with our clients is exceeding their expectations,” Steyers said. “I love hearing what they envision for the day and then making it happen.” Birthday parties, held at her shop in the West Shore Farmers Market in Lemoyne, are where guests can bring cake and food, “and all the kids make a balloon creation of their own.” It’s another way that Steyers said she and the Hooplas Etc. team are able to introduce the excitement of balloon art to others. Of course, she can’t do it alone, and Steyers credits her staff with helping both herself and the business look good. “I am incredibly blessed with an unbelievable staff,” Steyers said. Her key players include “Wes, my college weekend help, who is
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~ February 2019 | BUSINESSWoman
great with kids and adults alike; Chuck, my delivery guy, who is a retired veteran; and Amy, my shop manager, who is the total creative brains behind what we do.” In addition, she has others who are always there to step in and help when backups are called for. “They all work so well together … I don’t know what I’d do without them,” she said. There have been a few designs that have been particularly meaningful for Steyers and her team. One of those was a small job for a memorial service “where we created an angel and a butterfly so the couple could remember both of their moms, who loved angels and butterflies,” Steyers said. “Another time was when we created a unicorn to be delivered to a woman’s home,” Steyers continued. “When [the recipient] opened the door and saw it, she burst into tears. Her co-workers had ordered it for her as she was going through a cancer treatment. That was special!”
As a company, Steyers said that Hooplas Etc. has been happy to provide discounted or free products for events held by various local charities. “In addition, I am involved in many events through my church, LCBC Harrisburg campus,” she said. As time passes, Steyers continues to become more and more aware that the future of Hooplas Etc., and her future as well, depend on how she handles whatever comes her way. “We have been dealing with a severe helium shortage the past two months, and we have gotten super creative in how to continue to provide exceptional balloon creations for our clients without using helium,” she said. In the field of balloon art, helium is a pretty important piece of the puzzle, but Steyers is undeterred. “If we can manage something as crucial as a shortage of helium, we can certainly continue to grow!”
CAREER
Tax Cut and Jobs Act to Impact Small Businesses
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By BARRY SPARKS
he Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, signed into law in December 2017, will have a significant impact on small businesses. It is the first major tax overhaul in 30 years. Although there is uncertainty in regards to how much the new tax plan will impact small businesses in the long term, it’s expected to benefit small businesses in the short term. “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act includes massive changes, some favorable and some not, for small businesses,” said Barbara Weltman, an attorney and author of J.K. Lasser’s Small Business Taxes. “How the new tax plan affects your business will depend on how your business is set up.” Major changes, according to Weltman, include: • Eliminating the alternative minimum corporate tax rate • Dropping the corporate tax rate from 35 to 21 percent • Providing a 20 percent deduction for all pass-through businesses The last change is the one to most likely to affect small-business owners. Ninety-five percent of U.S. businesses are structured as passthrough entities, which include partnerships, limited liability companies, S corporations, and sole proprietorships. Pass-through business owners can claim the 20 percent deduction if their taxable income is under $157,500 for single filers or $315,000 for joint filers. According to Alan Crystal,
vice president of finance, SmallBiz Loans, an IRS analysis indicated that more than 70 percent of smallbusiness owners had an adjusted gross income below $200,000, which would make them eligible for the full 20 percent deduction for pass-through income. Since the pass-through deduction was included as an individual tax provision, it expires at the end of 2025. The pass-through deduction is generally 20 percent of the qualified business income. QBI is defined as the net amount of qualified items of income, gains, deductions, and losses with respect to a qualified trade or business. The qualified items of a qualified trade or business are items that are considered effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States and
that are otherwise taken into account within the taxable year. There are, however, a number of items, such as capital gains or losses, that are not part of QBI. Small-business owners are advised to work with their accountant, CPA, or tax consultant to determine their QBI. If the taxpayer’s taxable income is more than the threshold amounts, the deduction may be limited based on the amount of wages paid by the business and the unadjusted amount of qualified property in the business, according to Brock Blake, founder and CEO of Lendio. If your small business generates revenue through the professional services of one individual, such as a doctor, lawyer, dentist, or accountant, the eligibility for this 20 percent deduction phases out
for income between $315,000 and $415,000. Small-business owners are expected to realize a number of benefits from the new tax plan. Small-business owners should be able to retain more cash, which can be used to improve their business in a number of ways. They include hiring additional staff, raising employee pay, making capital investments, adding a second location, and increasing the marketing budget. Blake says the new tax plan will benefit small-business owners who are looking to purchase new equipment. “You will be able to write off 100 percent of the cost of new or used equipment and certain qualified improvement property purchased after Sept. 27, 2017, through Dec. 31, 2022,” he writes. “The
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bonus depreciation will phasedown from 80 percent for property placed in service during the calendar year 2023 to 20 percent for property placed in service during the calendar year 2026.” Weltman points out that there also are downsides to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Businesses can no longer write off certain employee benefits and other expenses, including: • Transportation fringe benefits and reimbursement to employees for moving expenses • Domestic production activities • Entertainment expenses (smallbusiness owners can still deduct 50 percent of the cost of business meals) Two other areas that could negatively impact small-business owners, according to Weltman, are the new excess business loss limitation and the net operating loss deduction.
A taxpayer’s loss from a nonpassive trade or business is now limited to $500,000 for married couples filing jointly and $250,000 for other taxpayers. Any excess business loss is treated as part of the taxpayer’s net operating loss (NOL) carryforward to be used in subsequent years. Under the new tax plan, a NOL can no longer be carried back two years. In addition, it can now be carried forward indefinitely. NOLs can only be used to offset 80 percent (instead of 100 percent) of a taxpayer’s taxable income in a carryforward tax year. “There will be winners and losers under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017,” says Weltman, whom the Wall Street Journal has tabbed “the guru of small-business taxes.” “Some of the changes are complicated, and they can be very challenging to understand,” she said. “My advice is to work with your CPA or tax adviser as soon as possible to navigate through your particular situation.”
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CAREER
What the New ‘Pass-Through’ Deduction Provision May Mean for You By KEVIN SCOTT
he 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act created a new provision under the Internal Revenue Code permitting owners of pass-through entities to deduct up to 20 percent of the income earned by the business. The new deduction was created to try to allow the pass-through entities — trusts and estates, sole proprietorships, S corporations, partnerships, and limited liability companies — to remain competitive with C corporation owners, who received a significant tax reduction under the 2017 Tax Act. The new deduction is effective for tax years beginning after Dec. 31, 2017. C corporations are subject to tax at two levels: the entity level and the shareholder level when the entity makes a distribution to its shareholders, typically a dividend. The 2017 Tax Act reduced the rate imposed at the entity level from the top rate of 35 percent to a flat rate of 21 percent. That reduction, along with the retention of the top rate on dividends, results in the reduction of the combined effective C corporation rate from 48 to 36.8 percent. Pass-through entities are only subject to a single level of tax. The owners report the income on their return and pay tax at individual tax rates. The 2017 Tax Act reduced the top individual tax rate from 39.6 to 37 percent. This reduction of the top individual rate, along with the 199A deduction, results in a top effective rate for owners of pass-through entities of 29.6 percent. However, it is important to
recognize that not every business will benefit from the 199A deduction. Section 199A provides for a new deduction known as the Qualified Business Income deduction. The deduction is from an owner’s adjusted gross income to arrive at an owner’s taxable income. The deduction is limited to the lesser 20 percent of net QBI or 20 percent of an owner’s individual tax return taxable income (Form 1040). QBI includes the net domestic business taxable income, gain, deduction, and loss with respect to any qualified trade or business. QBI excludes: • Dividends, investment interest income, short-term and long-term capital gains, commodities gains, foreign currency gains, and similar items • IRC section 707(c) guaranteed payments paid in compensation for services performed by the partner to the partnership • IRC Section 707(a) payments for services rendered with respect to the trade or business • Qualified REIT dividends, qualified cooperative dividends, or qualified PTP income Under Section 199A, there are limits to the QBI deduction for certain specified service trade or businesses. Specified service business are defined as any trade or business involving the performance of services in the fields of health, law, accounting, actuarial science, performing arts, consulting, athletic,
financial services, brokerage services, or any trade or business whose principal asset is the reputation or skill of one or more of its employees. There are specific definitions for what qualifies as a specified service business for the above specified fields: Health: Physicians, pharmacists, nurses, dentists, veterinarians, physical therapists, psychologists, and other similar healthcare professionals. Law: Lawyers, paralegals, legal arbitrators, mediators, and similar professionals. Accounting: Accountants, enrolled agents, return preparers, financial auditors, and bookkeepers. It does not include payment processing and billing analysis. Actuarial Science: Actuaries and similar professionals. It does not include services provided by analysts, economists, mathematicians, and statisticians not engaged in analyzing or assessing the financial costs of risk or uncertainty of events. Performing Arts: Actors, singers, musicians, entertainers, directors, and similar professionals. Athletics: Athletes, coaches, and team managers in sports. Consulting: Provision of professional advice and counsel to clients to assist the client in achieving goals and solving problems. Consulting includes providing advice and counsel regarding advocacy with the intention of
influencing decisions made by a government or governmental agency and all attempts to influence legislators and other government officials on behalf of a client by lobbyists and other similar professionals performing services in their capacity. The performance of services in the field of consulting does not include the performance of services other than advice and counsel. Financial Services: Financial advisers, investment bankers, wealth planners, retirement advisers, and other similar professionals. It does not include taking deposits or making loans. Brokerage Service: Anyone who facilitates a transaction for a commission or fee, but it does not include services provided by real estate agents and brokers, or insurance agents and brokers. Investment and InvestmentManagement Services: Anyone who receives a commission, a flat fee, or an investment-management fee calculated as a percentage of assets under management. The performance of services of investing and investment management does not include directly managing real property. Trading Services and Dealing in Securities: Anyone trading in securities, commodities, or partnership interests. Reputation or Skill: This will be used by the IRS to try to enforce the
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199A specified service trade or business limitations on services that do not clearly fit one of the categories above. If a business qualifies as a specified service trade or business, the following restrictions are imposed under Section 199A:
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• If the taxpayer’s taxable income is less than $157,500 (single) or $315,000 (married filing jointly), then the 20 percent QBI deduction is fully available. • If taxpayer’s taxable income is greater than $157,500 (single) or $315,000 (married filing jointly) but less than $207,500 (single) or $415,000 (married filing jointly), then a partial deduction is available. • If taxpayer’s taxable income is greater than $207,500 (single) or $415,000 (married filing jointly), then the QBI deduction is unavailable. If a business does not qualify as specified service trade or business, here is how the QBI deduction is computed:
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• If the taxpayer’s taxable income is less than $157,500 (single) or $315,000 (married filing jointly), the deduction equals the QBI multiplied by 20 percent. • If the taxpayer’s taxable income is greater than $157,500 (single) or $315,000 (married filing jointly), then the deduction equals the lesser of the qualified business income multiplied by 20 percent or the greater of 50 percent of W-2 wages or 25 percent of W-2 wages and 2.5 percent of unadjusted basis of qualified property. If you are in this class, consult a tax professional. While the calculations of the QBI deduction under the law may seem complicated — much of them are — tax professionals have been working on understanding these new laws for the last year and are ready to assist you with your 2018 returns. • Kevin Scott is an attorney in the Harrisburg office of Barley Snyder, Attorneys at Law, and is a member of the firm’s Tax Practice Group. Contact him at kscott@barley.com or visit www.barley.com.
The Gift of Gratitude
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By MEGAN JOYCE
Charter School, Summer’s charitable birthday efforts have become an annual tradition. Each year, Summer selects an organization or cause — some local, some farther-reaching — for which her party guests are encouraged to bring donations. “I’ve given her suggestions, but the decision is hers to make,” Shelley Hoachlander said. While in fifth grade, Summer accompanied her mother to the Pennsylvania Conference for Women in Philadelphia, which included remarks from Linda Cliatt-Wayman, principal of Strawberry Mansion
get things they needed,” Summer said. “She even sent me thank-you cards!” Last year, Summer gave her guests a “buffet” of charitable options from which to choose: donations went to her youth group at New Cumberland First Church of God, to a friend who rescues cats, and to Medard’s House, a support and mentorship nonprofit for at-risk teenagers in New Cumberland. Summer had become involved with the organization while working on Summer Hoachlander, attaining her Girl Scout Silver Award. of Camp Hill, with “I had three jars set up on a donations for her table and a poster board full of church’s youth group pictures for each jar,” Summer said. and its “Blessing Box,” “If people were donating, they which provides food could pick which one they wanted to for the community. For donate to. Some chose a little bit for several years Summer, each.” 15, has asked for Summer said the combined total charitable donations in lieu of birthday presents. for the three jars was around $200 — and a bag of cat food. Summer’s most recent birthday, her 15th, was held in the social hall at New Cumberland First Church of God, with donations of money and nonperishable food items divided between the church’s “Blessing Box” and her youth group. “We have a ‘Blessing Box’ at church, which is a box outside where people can get food if they need it, or they can donate food,” High School in North Philadelphia. Summer said. “Sometimes the box “It was a really rough school gets very empty, and there are a lot … The principal talked about the of people in need, especially this time changes that were taking place for the of year.” better,” Summer recalled. “A lot of Shelley Hoachlander noted that the kids had very little, and she said her daughter always receives thanks how many came from very poor from the organizations she supports homes and couldn’t even afford the each birthday, but “it’s not about things they needed for school. It the recognition, though. She just likes made me cry.” to help others when she can. For her birthday that year, “She got thank-you cards from Summer received school supplies, [Strawberry Mansion] and a letter hats and gloves, and more than $250 from the principal, and she got for Strawberry Mansion. thank-you cards from the charities “The principal called it ‘Summer she did last year,” Hoachlander said. Cares,’ and the kids were able to come “She saves them all.” BUSINESSWomanPA.com
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f one thing can be said for the still-emerging Generation Z, it’s that its members have never known a world where a kid can’t make a difference. Today’s children and teenagers were born into a cultural climate where the world feels small and opportunities for widespread social impact loom large, yet attainable. Camp Hill resident Summer Hoachlander was in third grade when Superstorm Sandy ravaged the eastern seaboard of the U.S. in fall 2012. In addition to the human and financial devastation, in the weeks following the hurricane, news media reported on the widespread problem of displaced, missing, or abandoned pets, many of whom ended up in overflowing and understaffed animal shelters. In New York and New Jersey alone, the ASPCA assisted with and provided supplies to more than 30,000 animals, according to an NBC News report. It didn’t surprise Summer’s mother, Shelley, when her daughter said she wanted to ask for donations of pet supplies in lieu of birthday gifts that year. “Summer’s always had a big heart. I can’t ever think of a time that she didn’t,” Shelley Hoachlander said. “Especially when it comes to animals. If she could adopt them all, she would.” Summer’s birthday-party donations that year totaled two boxes of pet supplies and about $30 cash, all of which was sent to the shelters struggling after the hurricane. “I don’t really need birthday presents,” Summer said. “I have enough stuff, and presents are something that is here now and gone later, but celebrating with family and friends and helping others lasts a lifetime with memories and gratefulness.” Now a ninth-grader at PA Cyber
Meet Me at the Hershey Lodge for a Great Day Out! By CHRISTIANNE RUPP Inviting all women who would love a relaxing day out enjoying time with family, friends, coworkers, or just to themselves: Please join us for the sixth annual Dauphin County Women’s Expo. Work your way around the show floor and learn about products and services that could make a difference in your life. Meet representatives who can assist with concerns about legal or financial matters, and talk with staff from educational institutions for younger and older students. Discover places you could take the kids or grandkids to on a day excursion that would be a memorable experience for everyone. Enjoy the entertainment and seminars that will be held throughout the day on the center stage. The fashion show this year will be presented by Three Little Birds Boutique. They’ll be strutting the fashions and accessories for the upcoming seasons with designs by names like Urban Expression, Liverpool, Jeans Mavi, Cupcakes and Cashmere, and others. Check out what you’ll want to be wearing in spring and summer. Join Dr. Kostow for his weight-loss seminar to learn how to get your body into fat-burning mode! You may have wanted to lose some weight for a while, or maybe the holidays are still with you in extra poundage. Kostow will talk about what’s keeping you from losing weight and how you can take control. Who doesn’t love food! “Flinchy” himself from Flinchy’s Restaurant, Bar, & The Train Wreck Deck will create a dish specially planned for the show. It’s a surprise, so don’t miss it! Quite extraordinary will be the presentation by Jan Helen McGee. She will keep the audience engaged with tales of her psychic secrets. McGee has worked with police departments and starred in an episode of Psychic Witness. She is also the author of Carriers of Genius: Conversations with the Mothers of Twelve Famous Men. Everyone loves tasty snacks. You can make them yourself without a lot of fuss and muss. Debbie Kimble, a representative of Tastefully Simple, will take the stage to demonstrate just how easy it can be.
She combines simple food ingredients and a great sense of humor that makes her presentation very entertaining. There is a lot of opportunity for retail therapy at the expo, so purchase a great find! There will be beauty supplies, jewelry, aromatherapy and essential oils, home furnishings, foods, fashions, and so much more! The Girls Scouts will be selling their delicious cookies, so be sure to look them up. (The net revenue from the sales benefits local scouts.) Everyone could use a mood boost, and there’s no pick-me-up more surefire than time spent with a soft, happy puppy. Stop by the puppy hugging station! A small Puppy donation will get you time spent snuggling and playing Hugging! with a huggable bundle of fur. All donations benefit the Harrisburg Kennel Club. We’ve planned a great way to spend your day, and we’d love to see you there. Please go online now to register for your free tickets at www.aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com, and visit the website for updates.
E Feb. 23, 2019 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hershey Lodge
325 University Drive, Hershey
Hosted by:
717.285.1350
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FREE advance guest registration online ($5 at the door)
aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com 12
~ February 2019 | BUSINESSWoman
Lifestyle
D
Divorcing? Coaching Can Help
By TARA EISENHARD
ivorce is changing. And that can be a good thing. Gone are the days when separating couples had no choice but to retain separate attorneys and go to war. Families embarking on this transformational journey now have more options than ever when it comes to the process and professionals they choose. One newcomer to today’s divorce support squad is the divorce coach. Have you heard the term before?
What is a Divorce Coach? Divorce coaches fill a unique space in the divorce process. They partner with their clients to define goals and strategize their next steps in life. Coaches help to create clarity. They empathize with their clients while also providing guidance, holding them accountable, and celebrating the small victories along the way. The principle of the position is really much the same as any sports coach.
Perhaps you’re wondering what exactly a coach can help with. Here’s a list of some common complaints and questions you might want to take to a coach: • “How do I ask for a divorce?” • “How do we tell the kids?” • “My ex and I need to be better communicators.” • “How can I be a better parent when I’m with my kids?” • “My life has turned completely upside down. What do I do next?” • “Whom can I trust? Who can help me best?” • “My ex is a bully, and I don’t know how to cope.” • “Everything is crazy, and I’m hanging on by a thread!” • “I know this is for the best. How do I make the best of it?” • “How am I supposed to co-parent with my ex’s affair partner?” • “What do I call my ex? How do I
regard my ex-in-laws? What about our friends?” • “I’m so done with this drama!” • “I don’t even know who I am anymore.” • “I’m devastated, but I’m determined. What now?” As you can see, coaches can help with tough discussions, setting boundaries, clear communication, dealing with difficult people, and ultimately helping you to get your life back on track again. They help clients set realistic expectations and work toward attainable goals. Furthermore, they’re available at any stage of the process. It doesn’t matter if the decision is new or the decree is a decade old. When it comes to working directly with their clients, most coaches offer one-on-one private coaching. This provides a space to work with the unique needs of each individual. Some coaches also offer specific coaching programs to work through alone or in a group. Group
programs can take place online, in person, or even in a retreat setting. What Divorce Coaching Isn’t It’s important to note that coaching is not a substitute for other types of divorce professionals. Coaches do not give legal advice (unless the coach is a qualified attorney). And while a coach might help you create a budget, they aren’t financial planners. A common misconception is that coaching and therapy are interchangeable. They aren’t. Here’s a good analogy to help you keep them straight: Imagine you’re pulling a suitcase behind you. If you take the suitcase to a therapist, s/he will help you unpack your baggage and look at what’s inside. If you take the same suitcase to a coach, s/he will simply ask where you’d like to travel to, and then help you determine the best way to reach your intended destination. In short: Therapy goes deep. Coaching is directional.
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It’s understandable that those navigating the divorce process can get confused given all of the available options for support. And this is another area where coaching might help: A coach can help you choose and use your team players wisely. Finding a Divorce Coach When it comes to choosing a coach, the process is similar to any other professional you might work with. Coaches have different styles, backgrounds, and certifications. Some divorce coaches came to coaching after working in the more adversarial world of traditional divorce. Others found a passion for coaching after their own dramatic divorce journey. If you’re looking for a coach, take the time to find one who meets your needs. This means a little self-awareness is important. It’s a good idea to know the issues you’d like to work on and whether you’re looking for private coaching sessions or a group program.
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In our classes, we combine thoughtful sequencing, a dose of inspiration, and a spirit of playfulness to help you deepen your practice and awareness of your body. We seek to help others in nurturing their body, mind, and soul with yoga. Our hope is that the practice you develop on mat will transfer off mat, leaving you feeling nourished, balanced, and refreshed. Breathe@LittleYogaPlace.com www.LittleYogaPlace.com facebook.com/ LittleYogaPlace 717-471-8328 Landisville, PA
Don’t focus too much on finding a coach in your city. Most coaches work remotely and offer services by phone or videoconference. As you find coaches online, check their websites as well as their social media accounts to get a feel for who they are and the approach they take to their work. When you find someone you like, schedule a consultation and see if it feels like a good fit. If you’re navigating a divorce, remember that what you’re going through is a human process with a legal document attached to it. There’s more to it than simply dissolving a legal marriage contract, and there’s no shame in asking for help from additional resources. If you’re stuck or struggling, a divorce coach might be a good ally to add to your team. • Tara Eisenhard is a divorce coach, author, and educator based in Central Pennsylvania. For more information, visit taraeisenhard.com.
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How to Handle Divorce with Bankruptcy Lifestyle
By BARBARA TRAININ BLANK
A
s if it’s not complicated enough, divorce often goes together with bankruptcy. Why? There are several reasons, said Kelly M. Walsh, an associate attorney with Scaringi Law’s Harrisburg office. First, financial problems are a common cause of relationship problems, so a couple that has had a breakdown financially may also have reached a breakdown in their relationship. “Second, divorce involves dividing the parties’ assets and debts through a process called equitable distribution,” said Walsh. “There are cases in which the parties just have, or mostly just have, debts to divide. In those cases, the easiest way to handle the equitable distribution may be for the parties to file bankruptcy to discharge their debts.” Moreover, when parties are divorcing, one party may choose to file bankruptcy strategically to gain certain advantages in the divorce. Although alimony and other domestic support obligations are not dischargeable in bankruptcy, equitable reimbursement can be discharged in a Chapter 13
bankruptcy. The party ordered to pay equitable reimbursement might file Chapter 13 bankruptcy to reduce or eliminate the payments. “Divorce is very challenging financially,” said Walsh. “It’s difficult to go from a two-income to a one-income household and adjust your lifestyle down from the standard of living to which you were previously accustomed to the standard of living you can afford after separation ... Court costs and attorney’s fees can add to the financial difficulty. “Typically, divorcing parties build up a lot of debt. They may find themselves needing to file bankruptcy to dig themselves out of the financial trouble they ended up in.” For Which Do You File First? Bankruptcy or Divorce? The timing depends on the circumstances. If, for example, you’re filing to prevent the divorce judge from assigning you certain debts in equitable distribution, you want to file bankruptcy before the divorce is finalized. If you are filing to discharge equitable reimbursement payments or other debts accumulated during divorce, you’ll want to file
bankruptcy after the divorce is completed. When Would You File Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13? A Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a pretty quick process in which the debtor discharges dischargeable debts without payment. Any assets outside the exemption amounts that can be protected in bankruptcy may be liquidated by the trustee. Typically, you file Chapter 7 only if your assets can all be protected. Chapter 7 also includes some income qualifications. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a payment plan. People typically file Chapter 13 if they want to bring arrears current on a secured debt for an asset they want to keep, if they make too much money to qualify for a Chapter 7, or if they want to protect assets that would be liquidated in a Chapter 7. “To qualify, though, you must have enough income to cover all of your basic living expenses, plus enough left over to pay what you are required to pay to the trustee,” said Walsh. What Obligations May Be Included in Bankruptcy? “You are required to list all of
your debts when you file bankruptcy,” she added. “What people usually mean when they ask this question, though, is, ‘What obligations can be discharged in bankruptcy?’” Most unsecured debts, such as credit cards and medical bills, can be discharged in either bankruptcy chapter. Some special categories of unsecured debts get special treatment and either cannot be discharged or must be paid as priority debts. Student loans are not discharged in most bankruptcies. Most tax debts are not discharged in Chapter 7 and must be paid in full if you file a Chapter 13. Domestic support obligations are not discharged but must be kept current, and any arrears must be paid in a Chapter 13. Secured Debts Can Go Either Way “If you surrender the item, you discharge your personal obligation, so the creditor is limited to collecting from the security interest and any co-debtors,” said Walsh. “If you don’t surrender the item, you can keep it so long as you continue to pay the loan, or you can enter into a reaffirmation agreement in which you remain
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fully liable for the loan. “If you are in arrears on a secured loan, you can bring the arrears current through a Chapter 13. Leases can be either assumed or rejected, depending on whether you want to keep them or not.� What Should You Do if Your Spouse Files Bankruptcy? Have their bankruptcy petition reviewed by an attorney familiar with both bankruptcy and divorce. It’s possible there is nothing adverse to you, but there are many ways in which a spouse’s bankruptcy could potentially harm you: Are they attempting to discharge obligations they owe you? What about debts on which you are also obligated? Are they surrendering the car you drive or the house you live in? Did they list any assets or debts you didn’t know about — or omit assets or debts you do know about? What impact will their bankruptcy have on your divorce, given your specific circumstances? Should you file bankruptcy, too? “If your spouse’s bankruptcy is adverse to you, you may be able to appear in their bankruptcy case as an interested creditor or a co-debtor and take certain actions to protect yourself,� said Walsh. “You also might be able to use information they listed in their bankruptcy against them in your divorce or support case. You should talk to an attorney about what options you have available and what they recommend.� There are other important considerations in deciding if the parties file bankruptcy jointly or separately if they both want to file bankruptcy to discharge their debts. They can limit their bankruptcy court costs and attorney’s fees by filing a joint bankruptcy but must do so while they are still married. If they file a joint bankruptcy before a divorce, the ideal time to file bankruptcy is likely after they have moved into separate households, so they can account for the increased expenses of living separately.
However, there are cases in which one of you gets a better deal by filing a joint bankruptcy, and the other gets a better deal filing separately. You may need to consult with bankruptcy attorneys separately. Another important consideration is the valuation of assets and strategy in divorce. Both divorce and bankruptcy require you to list all of your assets. Theoretically, there is a true value that you would honestly list in both places, but realistically, there is a range. In divorce, the parties usually use experts at either end of that range and litigate the value of assets. Typically, one party in divorce wants the value to be higher and the other wants the value to be lower for strategic reasons. Your asset schedules in bankruptcy and your inventory in divorce are filed under oath, so if you file both, they should be consistent. Domestic Support Obligations are Another Important Consideration “Divorce is often accompanied by the need for one party to pay child support, spousal support, and/or alimony,â€? said Walsh. “In bankruptcy, those are called domestic support obligations. These obligations are not dischargeable, and the bankruptcy court will require you to pay them and keep them current if you want to receive a discharge of other debts.â€? Additionally, family law matters are not stayed automatically in bankruptcy. You can be pursued for support and custody during your bankruptcy, and your divorce can be finalized. The only family law proceeding that is stayed during bankruptcy is equitable distribution. • Walsh noted that she is a Pennsylvania attorney, and her answers are based on Pennsylvania law — with her bankruptcy practice being primarily in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Divorce is based on state law, so it will vary from state to state. Bankruptcy is based on federal law, but each bankruptcy court may interpret the law a little differently.
Women, Stress, and the Risk of Heart Disease
Mental anguish has unwelcome effects on women’s cardiovascular health
A
By BEV BENNETT
long with poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking, unmanaged stress may increase the risk for heart
Wellness
disease. Now medical experts are discovering that mental stress affects women in different, and in some cases, more devastating ways, especially if they already have coronary conditions. One study that looked at adults with heart disease found that women who have mental stress are more prone than men to decreased blood flow to the heart (myocardial ischemia), which could lead to a heart attack. Other research suggests that women younger than 50 who had a recent heart attack and experience mental stress are more likely to have reduced blood flow than men of the same age with the same history. This is of great concern to medical experts. Women have a higher risk of developing mental stress-induced heart dysfunction, according to Dr. Zainab Samad, associate professor of medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina. Health researchers are beginning to look at the differences and to identify why some women are so negatively affected. Duke medical experts reviewed data from a previous study on men and women with decreased blood flow to the heart and stress. They discovered gender differences in blood platelet formation. Women experienced greater blood platelet clumping, which could cause clots, even though most of the volunteers were on anti-clumping medications, according to Samad. In the Emory University study on adults under 50 who had recent heart attacks, women were about twice as
likely as men to experience mental stress-induced blood flow reduction. “I was not surprised about the results in younger women, but the extent did surprise me,” says Viola Vaccarino, Ph.D., professor and chair of the department of epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia. She doesn’t have a definite answer about what it is that makes younger women vulnerable. If it is mental stress, then the question is why some women are better able than others to handle it. Vaccarino hopes to develop a mental stress test to identify those at risk. For now it’s difficult to gauge stress and determine who will be more susceptible. “You can’t put numbers on it as we would how much you weigh, how much you exercise, or whether you smoke,” says Dr. Charles Katzenberg, cardiologist, University of Arizona Sarver Heart Center, Tucson, Arizona. In experiments, stress is induced. The volunteers’ responses may indicate the degree to which they have stress in their lives, according to Katzenberg, co-founder of the HEART Series, a 12-week program to promote heart health. But even if you can’t determine whether your particular stressors put you at risk, you can take steps to reduce your vulnerability. It starts with a walk. “It’s been shown to reduce stress and improve cardiovascular function. It’s clearly important, especially for high-risk women, to find time every day, or at least every other day, to go to the gym, take long walks. That’s my recommendation at this point,” Vaccarino says. • © CTW Features BUSINESSWomanPA.com
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Workplace Weight Loss and Wellness Programs By JULIE TAPPERO
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Wellness
orkplace Wellness Programs have been in vogue now for several years. Companies, motivated by spiraling healthcare premiums, have looked to these programs as a way to lower the costs of employee benefits. These programs can range from co-workers agreeing to go on a diet together, to a structured contest implemented by management. While these bring many advantages to the workplace, they have to be balanced with laws that protect employees’ rights. You Have a Stake in Your Employees’ Health No matter the size of your company, you have a stake in your employees’ health and good reasons to care about their weight. According to the Centers for Disease Control: • Two-thirds of Americans are overweight. This not only causes health insurance rates to rise, but also contributes to many chronic health conditions, which results in increased absenteeism, loss of productivity, turnover, increased stress, and lowered morale. • The CDC estimates obesity costs U.S. companies about $13 billion a year! Even safety on the job and workers’ compensation are affected. Workplace Weight-Loss Programs and Discrimination Laws As employers consider the type of weight-loss program or contest to bring into their office, they must consider laws that protect employees against discrimination. While obesity itself is not a qualified disability, it may be caused
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by one. In addition, the EEOC guidelines state that severe obesity (defined as body weight more than 100 percent over the norm) is an impairment, which may then qualify an individual for some protections.
•M ost of these successful contests involve rewards, but to be nondiscriminatory, those rewards should be available to everyone, not just to those who clearly are overweight.
• A workplace weight loss program needs to be entirely voluntary for the staff.
•T here cannot be any negative ramifications for employees who choose not to participate.
• It should be structured to accommodate participants who have disabilities and provide them with the reasonable accommodations they require to participate.
•A sk employees to seek advice from their doctor before taking part in any strenuous physical exercise.
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• Have
all
employees
sign
a
waiver relieving the company of responsibility. As an example, a company may be better off allowing employees to select their own diet plan from a variety of choices offered, rather than having everyone going on the same diet, which might not work for someone in the office who has a health condition, such as diabetes or severe food allergies. Similarly, exercise options offered to employees during the program would need to accommodate everyone’s needs, so that an employee
with restricted mobility could still participate fully. Don’t Violate Employee Privacy The ADA prohibits employers from asking employees about their medical histories or conditions unless it has to do with their job or is a business necessity. It does give employers the ability to gather this information if it is part of a voluntary wellness and health screening program. Employers should not gather any medical information that they don’t need, but typically employees will be asked to provide information on their weight, which, for most people, is sensitive and should be kept confidential. If employees do reveal medical information that prevents them from participating, it needs to be kept confidential under the requirements of HIPAA and the ADA. Employers can never use this information as the basis for decisions on hiring, firing, or promoting employees.
•D o you serve muffins or cookies during the staff meetings? How about providing healthy snacks instead?
• If an employee wants to walk on their lunch hour, bike to work, or take a mid-afternoon aerobics class, can you be flexible enough with them to make that work? • Does your company’s leadership model the behavior you’d like to see in your employees? If the top management is overweight and eating fast food every day while they work through lunch, it sends a message to their staff that this is what a successful person at the company looks and acts like. Losing to Win Companies have been looking for ways to cut the fat in their budgets, and most of us are running pretty lean these days. Considering the financial impact of obesity, it’s tempting to encourage our employees to “cut the fatâ€? in order for us to continue to tighten our financial budgets. Doing it the right way will benefit our health, our employees’ health, and the company’s health. • Julie Tappero, the former owner of West Sound Workforce, founded a staffing agency that specializes in placing local residents with local businesses. Certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise, WSW believes that promoting local employment is fundamental to the success of both employers and employees. To learn more, visit www.WestSoundWorkforce.com.
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How Healthy is Your Company’s Environment? Certainly we all know that being overweight is a contributing factor to our rising healthcare costs. Conducting a weight-loss program in the workplace is one way to attack the problem. However, companies can review their own policies and environment to help employees lose weight every day, not just during a contest period.
• Do you have a vending machine filled with chips, candy bars, and soda? Remove it and in its place provide fresh fruit, yogurt, and other good food.
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Losing Weight — and Hoping Not to Find It? By K. LEIGH WISOTZKEY
Wellness
W
hether you’re a casualty of another broken yearly resolution or already rounding the next corner toward the summer wardrobe, you’re likely to be tossing around that dreaded, four-letter word, diet, and faced with many more potential rounds of falling off the weight-loss wagon. First of all, the very thought of dieting conjures up a lot of grief, and rightfully so. We associate diet with loss: deprivation, giving up, cutting out, failing … Add exercise to the mix, and the vision may also include a lot of sweat, exhaustion, and that other four-letter word — work. Considering you’re having feelings of loss and work right from the onset, realistically, how long is your determination going to last? Nix the “Diet” The philosophy of “eat less, move more” is often seen as the magic path to weight loss. And although it makes sense in theory, it’s not always that easy or a onesize-fits-all approach. “Most diets fail because of unrealistic and unsustainable methods,” says Dana Elia, MS, RDN, LDN, FAND, and owner of Fusion Integrative Health & Wellness in Lancaster. Elia is a registered dietitian nutritionist with more than 20 years of experience in medical nutrition therapy, integrative and functional nutrition, and health and wellness coaching. “The public is looking for a more integrative diet. We’re now embracing wellness, sustainability, and lifestyle,” she explains. “If
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people can shift their mindsets away from losing something (that they’re not looking to find again), and toward gaining longevity and wellness, the weight loss tends to happen naturally. “I don’t put people on diets,” says Elia. “First of all, the word die is in it, and that’s exactly how you feel when you’re on one. Plus,” she adds, “Diet indicates that it’s short term, and quick results usually equate to not successful.” Many diets are touted as 21 days, 30 days, maybe 90 days — all in line with what we’ve always been told are timelines for creating new habits. “True behavior change takes six months for new habits to grow roots,” Elia explains. “People’s expectations are grossly inaccurate, and the media does a great disservice to people. Our society is after instant gratification.” It’s the old adage of the tortoise and the hare. Our expectations are skewed and out of proportion, which often results in using unrealistic and unsustainable methods for losing weight. The bottom line is, you didn’t gain it overnight, so you can’t expect to lose it overnight. “Instant gratification sets people up for failure,” says Elia. In addition to unrealistic timeframes come unrealistic limitations. “Depriving themselves is why so many people’s diets fail,” Elia adds. There are many very restrictive diets out there that have solid value, but it still doesn’t mean they are easy to sustain. For example, the ketogenic diet consists of high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrates
~ February 2019 | BUSINESSWoman
and has been around since the 1920s. It was originally used as a diet for people with epilepsy. Lowcarb has become quite popular, but it’s very restrictive and should be supervised by a nutritionist.
Another common option, and one that Elia favors, is intermittent fasting or time-restricted feeding — an approach where all meals are eaten within certain windows of time through the day.
“Overall, I prefer to build a positive relationship with food and encourage people that you have to give it time,” says Elia. Enjoy Your “Exercise” “Exercise frightens people,” says Elia. “I focus more on movement.” One of Elia’s favorite quotes is, “Exercise is a celebration of what your body can do, not a punishment for what you ate.” “[Exercise] needs to be something you enjoy,” she advises. “So, if you hate running, don’t join a running club. It doesn’t have to be in a gym or the drudgery of a membership. It could be vacuuming or washing windows, if that’s what you enjoy. And while you’re at it, get your heart rate up.” Long term, sustaining a healthy weight through diet alone is unlikely, so movement is critical. Of course, there’s a difference between a stroll (a 45-minute mile) and walk. “If you’re using 10,000 steps as your benchmark for movement, that’s a start,” says Elia, “but it’s
important to recognize that if those steps aren’t fast-paced, it’s not giving you the cardio benefit you may need for your exercise program.” A good rule of thumb for exercise: • It should stimulate your heart rate • You shouldn’t be able to hold a conversation • You shouldn’t be able to sing On the flip side, if you can’t complete a sentence, you’re probably overdoing it. Remember, it’s supposed to be enjoyable, so it’s also important to start at the appropriate level. For example, if you’re somewhat exercise naïve, starting an exercise program with a Couch to 5K app may be a healthier option than jumping straight into a ninja workout. Ultimately, Elia reminds us that “exercise is the gift that keeps on giving. The benefits go beyond caloric. It releases endorphins,
continues to lubricate the joints, is the greatest stress reducer, and is better for an energy boost than your afternoon cup of joe.” The Ideal Weight-Loss Program? “The ideal weight-loss program is the one that’s personalized to the individual — the one that takes you into consideration,” says Elia. Small, gradual changes are one of Elia’s biggest recommendations. “I’m not a fan of ambush kitchen makeovers. You have to start small,” Elia explains. “If you’re a soda drinker, cut back a little. If you’re not eating five servings of veggies a day, start there.” Narrow your overall goal down to one or two goals, and use shortterm goals as stepping stones. “Giving it time allows you to create a new norm without even thinking about it. You really have to narrow it down and have a reality check,” says Elia. In addition to a realistic, personalized, integrative weight-
loss program, consisting of small, gradual changes over at six-month period, developing a healthy relationship with food is key. “Recognizing food as fuel and information for your cells and asking, ‘What is this bringing me?’ can be the difference between feeding your body a sugar bomb or something nutrient-dense or with antioxidant or cancer-fighting value,” Elia explains. “And when you get to the point where you think about how long you’ll need to stay on the treadmill to burn that can of Coke, or realize how hard you just worked to burn 500 calories, it’s creating healthy lifestyle changes.” Again, there is no one-size-fits-all or even one-size-fits-most solution when it comes to weight loss. “Any program needs to be personalized,” says Elia. “Find out what your body is asking for. The best nutritional program is one that works for your body and lifestyle and is realistic and sustainable.”
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Watch
Women to
Mary Cornelius has been hired by
Tyler Jermyn has been hired as an
Rebecca Stevenson McClure has
Kara Khanh-Ha D. Nguyen, M.D., MPH, has been named medical director of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at UPMC Pinnacle. Nguyen is triple board certified in obstetrics and gynecology, reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and medical genetics.
Shelly Reiff has been promoted to
Nicolette Szymanski has joined Rikore Geomatics as a computeraided drafter and designer. Szymanski has over 30 years’ experience in the engineering field. She holds an associate of art degree in civil technology from HACC.
Investment Real Estate, LLC as accounting manager. Cornelius brings 35 years of both commercial and residential real estate experience to her role with IRE.
accounting assistant for Investment Real Estate, LLC. Jermyn is spearheading the implementation of a paperless accounts payable process. She brings a wealth of experience in both accounting and facilities operations.
property manager of Moove In Self Storage York. Reiff originally joined the company in July 2018 as a relief manager, covering many locations in Lancaster County. She was then promoted to property manager in the Buck location in Quarryville.
Marketing and Your Business
Connections
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.
joined River Wealth Advisors as senior vice president of client relations and communications. McClure will play a critical role in building community relationships and raising awareness of the firm’s capabilities.
March 26, 2019 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Wyndham Hotel York 2000 Loucks Road, York
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.
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Applause
ACHIEVEMENTS & Stephanie DiVittore has been named partner with Barley Snyder. Her diverse litigation practice includes work in the areas of banking, tax assessment, land use, and commercial workout, including work as special counsel.
Karen Gunnison, Esq., has been
appointed to the LeTort Trust board of directors. Gunnison is director of market and PR strategy at Capital BlueCross. She also serves on the boards of the Nativity School of Harrisburg and the Harrisburg Regional Chamber.
THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS! See below regarding how to submit your achievements and/or career changes. You have worked hard to get where you are; why not share it with other businesswomen just like you!
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:
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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.
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5th Wednesday Networking Lunch 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Held ONLY 5th Wednesdays of the year Rotating location – West Shore Area Wicked Kitchen 30 S. Main St., Mechanicsburg Mitzi Jones mhjsunshine@aol.com American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) Camelot Chapter 6 p.m. 3rd Monday of the month The Radisson Penn Harris Hotel & Convention Center, Camp Hill Marianne Troy, President 717.802.5622 mariannetroy@gmail.com www.abwa.org/chapter/camelot-chapter Lancaster Area Express Network 7:15 – 9 a.m. 3rd Wednesday of the month Lancaster Country Club 1466 New Holland Pike, Lancaster Amy Winslow-Weiss www.laen-abwa.org
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 kristamariereed@gmail.com www.internationalinsuranceprofessionals.org
Yellow Breeches Chapter 6 p.m. 4th Wednesday of the month Comfort Suites 10 S. Hanover St., Carlisle Kerina DeMeester kerina1011@gmail.com
International Association of Administrative Professionals Capital Region of Pennsylvania LAN Meeting locations vary Pam Newbaum, CAP-OM, LAN Director 717.782.5787 pneubaum@pinnaclehealth.org www.iaap-harrisburg-pa.org
Central PA Association for Female Executives (CPAFE) 1st Wednesday of each month Refer to website for the meeting location Lori Zimmerman, President 717.648.0766 www.cpafe.org
Pennsylvania Public Relations Society 5:30 p.m. Last Thursday of the month Larissa Bedrick, President pprshbg@gmail.com www.pprs-hbg.org
Executive Women International Harrisburg Chapter 5:30 p.m. 3rd Thursday of the month Rotating location Julie Young 717.713.7255 www.ewiharrisburg.org
Shippensburg Women’s Area Networking (SWAN) Noon 1st Wednesday of the month Rotating location Lisa Mack, President shipswan@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/shipswan
Women’s Business Center Organization (WBCO) A program of the York County Economic Alliance 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 2nd Tuesday of the month September through May Heritage Hills Golf Resort & Conference Center Windows Ballroom (next to Oak Restaurant) 2700 Mount Rose Ave., York For more information on registering or membership, contact Sully Pinos at spinos@ycea-pa.org Women’s Capital Area Networking (WeCAN) 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 3rd Wednesday of the month Radisson Hotel 1150 Camp Hill Bypass, Camp Hill Abeer Allen, President info@wecanconnect.org www.wecanconnect.org Women’s Network of York 11:30 a.m. 3rd Tuesday of the month Out Door Country Club 1157 Detwiler Drive, York Laura Combs, President laura.combs@integritybankonline.com www.facebook.com/wnyork
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Connections
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 abwapennsquare@gmail.com www.abwapennsquare.org
Escape,Indulge, Explore Please Join Us! Fashio n Show Spa Tre atment s Weight -loss Se minar Girl Sco Cookie ut Sale
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Feb. 23, 2019 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hershey Lodge
325 University Drive Hershey Puppy Hugging!
See pg. 12 for a sneak peek!
Beauty Home Health Shopping Finance Technology Nutrition
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