Revitalize
Educate
Nurture
&
Empower
Women
APRIL 2016
Selling Yo u r
Home?
Add Personal Style To Your Home
ILLUMINATED
A P.I. IRENE MYSTERY PT 6
TRACY WAINWRIGHT Hampton Roads
www.renewvamagazine.com
DON’T LET SKIN IRRITATIONS GET IN THE WAY OF YOUR GOOD TIME!
April 2016
Contents
3 Money Matters 4 5 Ways To Revamp Your Run 5 Selling Your Home?.... 6 Don’t Let Skin Irritations Get In The Way... 7 Add Personal Style To Your Home 8 Avoid Stress When Caring For A Sick ... 9 Stumped For A Gift? 11 Illuminated - A P.I. Irene Mystery Pt.6 12 Study: Skin Requires Topical Vitamin C 13 The Coaching Spot - Bianca Negron 14 Small Business Is The Backbone Of Any City 15 Distribution Locations
Front Cover: © Mikos | Dreamstime.com | Woman Photo
RENEW Magazine is a free, full color, glossy publication distributed monthly and designed for and targeted to women residing in the Hampton Roads region of eastern Virginia. RENEW is an acronym; Revitalize, Educate, Nurture, & Empower Women. RENEW Magazine provides readers with holistic, lifestyle editorial content benefiting women in Hampton Roads. Placement of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. This publication is distributed and available free of charge at over 300 high traffic locations in Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, Virginia. RENEW Magazine is published by Orchard Business Group, LLC. Articles are the opinions of the writers and do not reflect the opinion of the publisher, advertisers, or their agencies. All copy is protected and cannot be reproduced without written permission from Orchard Business Group. Publisher further claims no responsibility for errors or omissions. Orchard Business Group Eneida Orchard - Publisher/Editor P.O. Box 593 • Lightfoot, VA 23090-0593 • 757-561-5219 info.renew.va@gmail.com • www.facebook.com/renewmagazine.va • www.renewvamagazine.com Contributing Writers Bianca Negrón Castro • Tatrece Swann • Janice Underwood Tracy Wainwright • Yiorgo • Brad Orchard
2 RENEW APRIL 2016
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
I
f you’ve been entrusted to assist an elderly relative with scheduling preventive exams and putting a health care plan in place, you may struggle with knowing when it’s time to take on a greater role in other aspects of their life. That’s why now is the perfect time to look for warning signs that your loved ones might be suffering from a decline in financial ability. Despite years of accumulated knowledge and experience, it is likely that at some point your loved ones’ financial capability will be challenged as they age, making it more difficult to competently handle money-related matters on their own. And this decline can occur even if illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, are not present. Establishing a plan to manage your parents’ finances is an important task in their senior years, particularly if you intend to engage other family members in the process. A survey from the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) found that 86 percent of people want their family to help with financial matters if they become unable. However, nearly 7 in 10 say their family dynamics prevent that from happening. According to the survey, 58 percent of families experience disagreements, conflicts or confrontation with others when aging affects financial decision making. Whether you’re a child or family member who has been enlisted to help or even charting your own financial future, approaching these discussions with candor and an open mind is critical. “Especially if you’re accustomed to handling money matters privately, learning to talk more candidly about your finances may be uncomfortable,” said Ted Beck, president and CEO of NEFE. “However, allowing trusted individuals to take a closer look at your accounts can help you establish a realistic plan for the future, and help flag any potential concerns.”
One way Beck recommends protecting your parents is to allow view-only access to let loved ones help monitor for unusual activity on your banking and credit accounts. If restrictions to unauthorized (Family Features) users prohibit this, you can set up an alert program (via email or text) when a transaction over a set amount occurs. Also, remember to perform regular credit checks to avoid scams and identity theft. Check the three major reporting bureaus and stagger the reports to get one every four months. Additional tools and resources are available at smartaboutmoney.org to help ensure your loved ones’ finances stay healthy through these golden years. Financial Warning Signs New dents, scratches and dings on your aging parent’s car might be a sign of deteriorating driving ability. These are pretty obvious warning signs. With impaired financial decision making, the signs may not be quite as obvious, but if you know what to look for you might be able to spot it early.
arithmetic? Maybe you recently went out to dinner with mom and dad, and while paying, they took an inordinate amount of time to calculate the appropriate tip. 4. Have you noticed a decreased understanding of financial concepts with your loved ones? Are they having increased difficulty comprehending health care matters like deductibles, or are they having a hard time understanding the bank Photo Courtesy of VHHA statements they receive? 5. Are they having new difficulty identifying investment risks? Are they able to minimize the risks in potential investments? Did they recently fall victim to fraud or a scam because they could not spot the liabilities? Pay extra attention toward looking for the warning signs of mental and financial decline. Most importantly, take the time to talk to your parents about their wishes and how you can help them.
1. Is the aging person taking longer to complete financial tasks? Does she struggle with everyday efforts like preparing bills for mailing, reconciling bank statements or organizing paperwork? 2. Is the person missing key details in financial documents? Are bills piling up and has he missed a payment? Is he able to prioritize his regular responsibilities? 3. Is your aging parent experiencing problems with everyday APRIL 2016 RENEW
3
H
ave you ever wished you could just snap your fingers and be able to run a marathon? If only it were that easy. Whether you’re training for a race, want to get in shape or simply enjoy the rhythm of your feet hitting the pavement, running takes consistency and practice. “No matter where you fall on the running spectrum, there’s always room for improvement,” says Rebekah Mayer, National Run Training Manager for Life Time Fitness - The Healthy Way of Life Company. “If you’re striving to become a better runner, you might need to make some changes or switch up your routine.”
5 WAYS TO
REVAMP YOUR RUN
Below are five tips from Mayer to help amp up your run so you can feel great while making each workout count:
(BPT)
Ease into your outdoor runs If you’ve been hitting the treadmill all winter and are just beginning to run outdoors, take it slow. Pavement is harder on your knees and joints than a treadmill belt, and your running form is a little different when you’re outside on the ground. Start by taking some easy workouts outdoors, and then progress into harder workouts. By then, all the trails will be fully clear and your legs will have a chance to adapt. Ditch the background noise Consider leaving your headphones at home. While music is essential to beat boredom on a treadmill, many runners come to enjoy the quiet solitude or group chatter when running outdoors, especially when you run with a friend. Without headphones, it’s also easier to hear traffic, animals or approaching pedestrians. If music is absolutely necessary, try running with only one ear bud in. Make it memorable Take the time to make some of your runs a little more interesting. Is there a trail system a short drive from your home or nearest health club? Even if it doesn’t fit into your daily routine, doing some runs at a more scenic location every so often can make the miles much more enjoyable. Changing up your routine also helps keep your body challenged so you can continue to build strength and endurance. Gather your running buddies Running with friends is one of the best ways to stay motivated. Running with a buddy on a treadmill is fun as well, but an outdoor running pal or group can help the time and miles pass more quickly. Life Time destinations nationwide host Tuesday Night Social Runs with varying distances and they’re complimentary for members and non-members. There’s nothing like good conversation to keep you entertained during your workout. Running partners can be good pace setters as well and might even suggest some new running routes or trails you’ve never tried before. Dress the part If you run in the dark, choose reflective clothing and a headlamp for safety. On rainy days, add a water resistant jacket and a cap to keep water out of your eyes. This will make the weather more tolerable. If temperatures are cool, choose an outer layer you can easily remove if you get too warm. Life Time is a firm believer that the right pair of shoes can help prevent injury, so make sure you find a pair that works for your running style. Use these tips to make the most of each run or if you’re one of the thousands of Americans who’s currently training for a marathon, check out lifetimerun.com to sign up for a virtual or in-person run training plan. 4 RENEW
APRIL 2016
SELLING YOUR HOME? LET THE BIDDING WARS BEGIN
N
o wonder you’re thinking of selling your home - it’s a “seller’s market” right now. The housing supply has dwindled, creating more demand for fewer homes.
At the same time, according to Realtor Tammy Reinke, buyers’ expectations are higher than ever. They’ve become accustomed to model-perfect homes.
(BPT)
What’s the upshot? “Sellers have a choice,” says Reinke. “You can win the price war - or win the beauty contest.” By winning the beauty contest, you’ll gain pricing leverage. And if your home shows well, it can even spark a bidding war - generating offers that exceed your asking price. Here are three top “beauty” tips to set your home apart from other contestants, and set yourself up for a fatter settlement check. 1. Dirt’s a deal-breaker: Make a clean sweep “Buyers want to see a clean home,” says Reinke. “And the first thing to deal with is stained carpets and ceilings.” Stained carpets should be cleaned or replaced. Stained ceilings deserve your attention, too. They can scare off prospective buyers who fear that ceiling imperfections might be a sign of bigger problems. “If you’ve got a stained popcorn ceiling, don’t bother trying to spot paint over it, it doesn’t work,” Reinke says. Even professionals find it difficult to match the original finish and color. In addition, flocked or heavily textured ceilings are best replaced because they look so outdated. Instead, consider installing ceiling tiles or panels directly over the offending ceiling, using a simple DIY track-and-clip system. To weigh all your ceiling replacement options, pop some real popcorn and settle back with the Armstrong Ceiling video guide to ceilings for lots of ideas and inspiration. 2. Declutter de house Buyers can’t picture themselves in your home if they can’t see past your piles of stuff. “There’s a difference between clutter and an intentional collection,” says Tiffany Little, a senior interior design at Albion Associates. Pull together different items - like pottery or framed photography - using a common design element like color, similar patterns, texture or materials. “It’s OK to leave some surfaces empty, and to create a display of personal mementos in a stylish, organized manner in other areas,” says Little. “This makes the personal items even more special.” 3. Spark design interest So you’ve cleaned and decluttered, but now your rooms seem blah and uninviting. Nothing enlivens a space like a splash of color. Toss some bright new pillows on the sofa or add tasteful artwork or accessories to complement your color scheme. Paint adds personality, too, but choose your colors carefully so your wall palette flows naturally from room to room. “I like using a neutral color palette for larger rooms - from ivory tones to values of grey,” says Little. She adds mid-tone colors to smaller rooms, while selectively using vivid or deeper colors as accents with accessories and artwork throughout the home. Finally, don’t forget to add texture, whether with a woven area rug or sculptural wire baskets. “Texture adds great dimension and depth to a room,” says Little. “I especially love the look of Armstrong Ceilings decorative metal ceiling panels in textured tin or copper as accents above a kitchen island. This turns the ordinary, smooth sheetrock ceiling into a wow factor. By adding this textured ceiling color in with a few of the dishes, or countertop items, it unifies the room’s palette,” she added. With a bit of primping, your home can win the ultimate beauty contest and attract a buyer who’s willing to meet your price, or even pay a premium to call it their own. APRIL 2016 RENEW
5
DON’T LET SKIN IRRITATIONS GET IN THE WAY OF YOUR GOOD TIME!
W
arm days mean picnics, ballgames and outdoor adventure. Unfortunately, all that sun and fun can introduce a greater risk of skin woes for you and your family.
“Whether you’re playing catch in the backyard or pitching a tent in the woods, you can help prevent certain issues from occurring, and if they do, be prepared by having a remedy on hand that can offer your family instant healing and relief from itching, burning and discomfort,” says Dr. Angela Lamb, dermatologist. With that in mind, here are some tips to prevent and treat the itch and irritation of the season: Cover Up More bare skin means more risk for bug bites and stings, and exposure to rash-causing plants such as poison ivy and poison oak. When possible, wear long sleeves and pants. Loose-fitting, light colors can keep you cool on warmer days, even when covered up. When you get home, check clothes for ticks before heading inside. Be Aware Be savvy outdoors and teach your family to avoid poison ivy, oak and sumac. If you spend time in areas where these plants grow, cover up and avoid contact. When you get home, be sure to wash skin and clothing that may have been exposed to the sap of these plants. Ensure your yard drains properly during and after rain and empty kiddie pools and other standing water. Proactive steps such as these will prevent mosquitoes from making your yard a breeding ground. Treat Ailments Even with preventive measures in place, bites, stings, scrapes and allergic reactions do happen. Make sure you’re prepared to treat discomfort. For bites and stings, Dr. Lamb recommends a counterirritant such as After Bite, which stops itch and offers a skin protectant for temporary relief and faster healing. The kids’ formula is a gentle alternative for young ones or anyone with sensitive skin. Both contain soothing baking soda and offer an easy-to-apply, portable remedy for bites from a wide variety of insects. For instant and permanent relief from itching and pain associated with hives, rashes and redness, insect bites, minor scrapes, and allergic reactions from poison ivy, oak and sumac, Dr. Lamb recommends a new steroid-free anti-itch product for the whole family called The Itch Eraser. It is offered in a maximum strength gel and spray with antihistamine as the active ingredient, or a sensitive cream formula with baking soda for those who have sensitive skin. All three contain Vitamin E and Tea Tree Oil to heal and moisturize the skin while reducing redness and inflammation. So, get the bikes dusted off, the baseball mitts oiled and the camping gear out of the garage -- family fun this season is all about taking advantage of the outdoors. But don’t let skin irritations get in way of your good time! Take precautions and arm yourself with treatments for all your skin problems. 6 RENEW APRIL 2016
ADD YOUR PERSONAL STYLE TO YOUR HOME
Y
ou may feel locked into the style you inherited when you purchased your house. But you have more power than you think to transform your reality home into your dream
Serving Hampton Roads for 35 years!
home.
To make a big style impact, consider these upgrades and projects: Elegant privacy windows and upgraded fixtures can enhance a bathroom.
Stunning Curb Appeal
Don’t settle for a drab or standard home exterior, particularly when it comes to your roof. A beautiful, colorful update will enhance your home’s exterior design and boost curb appeal. For long-term durability, consider a polymer slate or shake roofing product, like those from DaVinci Roofscapes, which are offered in 50 standard colors and a variety of striking color blends. However, picking the right exterior color scheme and style can be daunting without guidance, say experts. “Many homeowners are afraid to shake things up with color because they don’t want to make a mistake,” says Kate Smith, a color trend forecaster with Sensational Color. Luckily, free resources can provide guidance and tips on understanding your home’s exterior features and how to play off them with color accents. For example, Smith has written a free 36-page guide, “FRESH Color Schemes for Your Home Exterior.” The guide explores color options for seven different home styles and eases the process of choosing color palettes to complement your home exterior. To download the free guide, visit davinciroofscapes.com. An Interior Oasis An ancient tub, a leaky toilet -- these are bathroom features to bid farewell to forever. Your bathroom should be more than just a functional space; it should be an oasis from busy, stressful days. Whether you are looking for customary bathroom elements or a spa-like whirlpool system, seek out a collection, rather than a la carte replacements, to achieve a coordinated look. For example, the Affordable Style Designer Series suites from Mansfield Plumbing, come in a variety of unified traditional and modern designs.
GET ORGANIZED & RECEIVE $ 100 FREE Accessories* For any room in the house! Inner Space Systems has over 35 years of experience in providing and installing quality products for your home.
If you want a bit more from your bathroom, consider new products, such as the MicroDerm Therapeutic Bath, which silently infuses millions of oxygen-rich microbubbles into bathwater to relax, clean and exfoliate skin.
Visit our showroom or visit our website for a glimpse at what we can do for you!
A Touch of Elegance
• Custom storage solutions: closets, pantries, home offices and more
Give your interior spaces privacy and elegance by rethinking windows. In key rooms, consider replacing standard windows with privacy windows.
• Custom glass shower and tub enclosures
Decorative glass windows add character to a space because they become the view. They serve as their own artwork for the room with the added benefit of providing privacy in the home. Those from Hy-Lite include square, geometric and oval shaped windows in both fixed and operable styles and in various sizes, so they can be used as a focal point in a room or to create a striking accent wall of windows. Create an eye-catching space in the kitchen with acrylic block windows, or complement your home’s architectural style with one of the fashionable silk-screened windows featured in their Home Designer Collection. If you’re unsatisfied with your house, consider making key upgrades and replacements that will add elegance, beauty and a touch of your own personality-(StatePoint). For more information on custom glass shower and tub enclosures, contact Inner Space Systems, Inc. at: www.issvip.com or 757.487.1101.
• Custom mirrors • Bath hardware (including ADA compliant hardware) • Garage Organizational Systems
757.487.1101 3535 Elmhurst Lane Portsmouth, VA 23701 www.issvip.com *Valid on purchases over $500. Mention promotion code RM04016 when calling! APRIL 2016 RENEW
7
W MAKE A COMMITMENT TO YOUR HEALTH AND WELL BEING! Many of us make Resolutions to lose weight, eat more healthy foods, get more sleep, or start exercising more. All of these healthy life style choices work better in conjunction with regular Therapeutic Massage! Some people have the misconception that Massage is a luxury and only to be enjoyed as an occasional treat. In fact, Therapeutic Massage is extremely beneficial on many levels. Massage Therapists have a vast knowledge of the body and its systems. We understand how the muscles work and have studied the anatomy and physiology of the body extensively. Therapeutic Massage effects the body on a cellular level. The benefits are long lasting and plentiful. During a massage your Massage Therapist increases your circulation and moves toxins and metabolic waste out of the tissues and into the circulatory system. This results in a Full Body Detoxification and boosts your immune system. This also boosts your metabolism, making it easier to lose weight. After a massage your body is less tense and muscle discomfort is diminished. This allows for a better nights sleep. Massage increases your serotonin levels, putting you in a better mood and enabling you to sleep peacefully through the night. Massage increases your body awareness and range of motion while decreasing your risk of injury associated with exercising and sports. Massage before and after arduous sporting events is highly recommended. Incorporating Massage into your exercise regimen will reduce with your recovery time and help to eliminate soreness. With regular massage (every 4-6 weeks) you can detoxify your body to aid your weight loss regimen, improve your sleeping patterns, eliminate soreness and discomfort and improve your over all well being! All of our Therapeutic Massage appointments are customized to the individual. Our Licensed and Certified Massage Therapists work with you to help you to meet your goals. We have many Therapists on our Team and always do our best to match you to the Therapist who best suits your needs. We look forward to seeing you at your next Visit! Photo Courtesy of Grillo’s Photography In Health and Happiness Samantha E. Mullen, LMT, CIMI MAKE THE COMMITMENT TO YOURSELF AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR DISCOUNTED SPA DAY PACKAGES ~ WE ARE “WARMING THE WORLD WITH HEALING HANDS”
hen saying “I do,” the classic marriage vows, “In good times and in bad, in sickness and in health” spring to mind. However, when sickness strikes, many are not prepared for the strain it can have on the relationship. While we may think we know our spouses well, nearly half of Americans never experienced their spouse’s “sick persona” until after they were married, according to a survey commissioned by Advil Sinus Congestion & Pain.
AVOID STRESS WHEN CARING FOR A SICK SPOUSE OR SIGNIFICANT OTHER
(BPT)
A cold or the flu can bring added stress to a relationship and it’s not always well-received. In fact, 20 percent of people admit they’d rather be sick themselves than deal with a sick spouse, which is likely because almost a quarter reported their spouses complain often when they’re ill. To help you become a better caregiver for a spouse during cough, cold and flu season, Rachel Sussman, therapist and relationship expert, recommends the following tips: 1. Bring on the food for the soul No cold or flu remedy is complete without a warm bowl of chicken soup. Whether homemade or store-bought, you partner will appreciate the loving gesture. If your partner has a larger appetite, prepare their favorite foods and serve them in bed. 2. Stock the medicine cabinet One of the most important aspects of being a good caregiver is preparation. Be sure to keep the medicine cabinet stocked with products to combat tough cold and sinus symptoms, like Advil Sinus Congestion & Pain. 3. Provide entertainment Sickness can take its toll on not only physical health, but also emotional well-being. Help your partner get through a long, dull day by having entertaining books, movies and magazines at the ready. For the music lover, create a personalized playlist that shows them just how much you care. 4. Keep them warm A warm, soft blanket and comfy clothes can make a big difference when feeling under the weather. Ask your spouse what their favorite comfy pajamas, cozy sweatpants or fuzzy slippers are and be sure they have them for the duration of their sickness. 5. Help with chores When someone is sick, chores and errands tend to fall by the wayside. Offer to help your partner with the small tasks, like laundry, paying bills or urgent phone calls. Has your partner been to the doctor? Almost eight in 10 married individuals report their spouse doesn’t seek professional help as soon as possible to get better. Offer to set up a doctor’s appointment to ensure your partner is on the road to recovery as fast as possible. 6. Show patience and understanding Above all, remain patient, be a good listener and show you can handle the extra stress. Listening to your partner attentively offers them a chance to unburden and vent, leading to a greater sense of calm and understanding. Couples who engage in this behavior are presented with an opportunity to achieve greater intimacy and deepen their relationship connection as a result. For more information, please visit advil.com.
8 RENEW APRIL 2016
STUMPED FOR A BIRTHDAY GIFT?
O
ne of the best ways to motivate kids to learn is by making it fun, and birthdays are the perfect opportunity to equip the kids in your life with gifts that are equal parts entertaining and educational. For some great gift ideas that turn what could be a chore into a good time, consider the following: Watch it Grow Whether you do-it-yourself or opt for a storebought kit, a terrarium offers children a hands-on lesson in horticulture, biology, earth science and responsibility. Terrariums, which make great gifts, can be used to grow beautiful plants and flowers, or edible herbs for the kitchen.
FUN PRESENT IDEAS THAT HELP KIDS LEARN
Pair this gift with books about nature and gardening and you may inspire a green thumb for life.
Smart Gaming Kids will always want to play video games, so why not allow them to learn while playing? Check out VTech’s InnoTV, an educational TV-connected gaming system designed with preschoolers in mind. It features an easy-to-use kid-friendly wireless controller and learning games for ages 3-8 that introduce language arts, science, technology, engineering and math concepts and more. InnoTV also offers access to a huge educator-supported library of additional games on VTech’s Learning Lodge app store, as well as compatibility with a variety of InnoTab MAX cartridges. “The family gaming console has found a welcome place in many family rooms for good reason,” says Dr. Eric Klopfer, VTech Expert Panel member and Platform Learning Expert. “The console connected to the TV provides an interactive focal point for family gaming.” InnoTV comes with single-player, age-appropriate educational games (many aligned with Common Core curriculum standards), and allows for multiple players -- providing opportunities for social play, which is important for preschoolers learning to share, cooperate and take turns. To learn more, visit www.vtechkids.com/InnoTV. Make Music Many children wish to explore the world of music, but unfortunately, their schools may not offer the exact programs they are looking for. You can nurture musical talent and interest at home with thoughtful birthday gifts, however. If your child is indecisive, consider a temporary rental of his or her instrument of choice and a starter pack of just a few lessons. Kids’ Size Science Bourgeoning scientists will love making their own observations and discoveries. Luckily, kids-size scientific apparatus are available for those just beginning to explore everything from cells of plants to the cosmos. Telescopes and microscopes designed with kids in mind can help young ones develop the skills needed to succeed in science. When planning your gift, don’t forget the notion that fun and learning are two peas in a pod. APRIL 2016 RENEW
9
10 RENEW APRIL 2016
Study: Skin Requires Topical Vitamin C
D
ue to its numerous health benefits, scientists are increasingly giving vitamin C an A+. Beyond its effectiveness in boosting the immune system and preventing prenatal health problems, vitamin C—also known as ascorbic acid—is seen as a powerful weapon for protecting the skin against premature aging.
(NAPS)
“A study at Seoul National University College of Medicine demonstrated that levels of ascorbic acid decrease in skin over time due to both UV exposure and natural aging,” says Dr. Adam Geyer, consulting dermatologist for Kiehl’s Since 1851. “Ascorbic acid is not only effective at minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, but it also serves as a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize damaging free radicals to further promote youthful-looking skin.”
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate, which is formulated at a highly potent level of 10.5 percent vitamin C. The formula remains one of the most highly effective products of its kind—proven to address not only fine lines and wrinkles, but also reveal a significant improvement in skin texture and radiance. To offer similar anti-aging benefits to the delicate eye area, Kiehl’s has developed Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Eye-Brightening Concentrate, clinically demonstrated to noticeably decrease the appearance of crow’s feet and suborbital wrinkles and visibly minimize dark circles for a brighter and younger-looking eye area. Kiehl’s products are available at www.kiehls.com/pslrc, by mail order at 1-800-KIEHLS-2 and through select specialty retailers worldwide. Vitamin C has been proven to help promote healthy skin.
12 RENEW APRIL 2016
Hi, Nice to Meet You! For about 10 months I have been a collaborator for Renew Magazine. The experience has been wonderful but about a month ago, talking to Mrs. Eneida Orchard (owner of Renew Magazine) we thought of doing a minor change to my column. Did you know that I was the only collaborator writing in Spanish? Huh?? Yes, I bet you saw it! Well, my new task is to write in English and last month I started but noticed something, I have not introduced myself properly! Well here it goes…Hi, My name is Bianca Negrón, half Puerto Rican and half Ecuadorian. I am an entrepreneur who is passionate about education, human resources, career and business
development. I’m also a military spouse (my husband is in the Coast Guard). At the beginning of my military life I felt lonely and very confused, I was facing many challenges but in 2011, I got introduced to life coaching and everything changed. Learning is my passion and therefore I became a Certified Leadership, Life and Instructional Coach. Accomplishing this in my life has been one of the best investments that I have done. It has helped me on my life, career and business. The tools that I learned has helped me make valuable and better decisions in my life but also support others. I am passionate about developing innovative projects that enhance and empower professionals, military spouses, kids and entrepreneurs. Therefore in 2008, finding myself without a job and feeling unsuccessful I came with the idea of creating my own company; Maestros X- press, Inc., the first company in Puerto Rico specialized in Human Resources Consulting, Recruitment & Selection, and Instructional Coaching for private schools. Since then I have been in love with creating new projects and in 2013 I created The Coaching Spot, providing leadership coaching, career, business and image consulting services.
Serves 4; 1 1/2 cups per serving
Have you ever felt unfulfilled…with certain emptiness? Or maybe, you have lost that happiness and passion about your life, career or business? You might even, feel that it is time to begin that business idea you have always wanted to? Well, that’s what I am here for! I empower and coach people who are ready to make a difference in their life, career or business so that they can achieve their goals, be happy and successful! My main goal is to make a difference through my actions and words and every month I will share with you valuable tools that will empower your life, career or business. Well, this is me… will love to hear from you. Please send me an email at coaching@bianca-negron.com; I will love to meet you. Let’s make a difference together!
Bianca Negrón Castro
Toss this unusual salad together the next time you want something different for a brown-bag lunch. The bright green edamame and shiny black beans provide complementary tastes and a nice color contrast. 4 ounces dried multigrain penne 2 cups frozen shelled edamame (green soybeans), thawed 1/2 15-ounce can no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained 1/2 cup chopped green onions 2 tablespoons snipped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra-virgin preferred) 2 medium garlic cloves, minced 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed 1/4 teaspoon salt 3 ounces low-fat feta cheese, crumbled Prepare the pasta using the package directions, omitting the salt and oil. Drain in a colander. Run the pasta under cold water for about 20 seconds to stop the cooking process. Drain well in a colander. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, stir together the remaining ingredients except the feta. Using a rubber scraper, fold the pasta and feta into the mixture. If you make this salad to enjoy the next day or have leftovers, squeeze lemon wedges over it just before serving to “brighten” the flavors. Calories Total Fat Saturated Fat 2.0 g Trans Fat Polyunsaturated Fat1.0 g Monounsaturated Fat Cholesterol 8 mg Sodium Carbohydrates Fiber 9g Sugars Protein
320 10.0 g 0.0 g 3.0 g 453 mg 38 g 6g 21 g
This recipe is brought to you by the American Heart Association’s Face the Fats campaign. Recipe copyright © 2009 by the American Heart Association. Look for other delicious recipes in American Heart Association cookbooks, available from booksellers everywhere, and at deliciousdecisions.org.
2 1/2 starch, 2 lean meat
APRIL 2016 RENEW
13
SMALL BUSINESS IS THE BACKBONE OF ANY CITY An Interview with Dr. Patricia Woodbury I got trained in school psychology and counseling while I ran an adult education program for the army with Newport News Public Schools at Fort Eustis. I worked as a substitute school psychologist in Hampton and Newport News. I also taught and trained teachers at Hampton University for 13 years and evaluated children and adults with possible learning problems Welcome Dr. Woodbury. Thank you so much for your long service to the city of Newport News and to from Gloucester to Virginia Beach. the entire region. Can you tell us a little bit about Y: What are some issues that are near and dear to your where were you born, what was your early life like heart? and why did you go into music and phycology? Yiorgo: With us today is Dr. Patricia Woodbury current Newport News city council member who has decided to seek reelection as representative of the Central District in the May 2016 City Council election.
Dr. Patricia Woodbury: I am a proud, native Virginian. I was born on my grandfather’s farm in Southampton County, VA home of the very famous Virginia Diner, during the Great Depression. My father had lost his job, so we moved in with my grandfather and my mother taught me. Later on, my graduating class had 7 people. I went to Longwood College as music major. I still sing in my church choir. I got married and had two children. Y: You have a Doctor’s degree in psychology. P W: Yes, a psychologist tested one of my children and it was the worst experience of his life. I decided right then and there that I would never let that happen to another child.
P W: To me, small business is the backbone of any city. We have wonderful taxes from the Shipyard on other big companies, but the backbone of any community are the mom and pop stores. From the first time I got elected, this has always been a big passion of mine. There is a program in Marion, VA involving pop-up businesses. They will pop-up say around Christmas time, stay open for two months, then close. It saved the town of Marion who was about to be bankrupt. I would love to see more of that here in Newport News. Also, I would love to see women and minorities without needing a huge investment, do a pop up business. You know sometimes those pop-ups find their calling and become year-round. This is win-win for everyone. I really buy into that concept. Give small businesses incentives as well. I am looking into the possible development of a small business commission to work on those things. I also have been a long time supporter of getting a grocery store in downtown Newport News. We now have a grocery store that will open with fresh food and vegetables and we built a police precinct to help with safety and other issues. In the north district of Newport News we built a community center that is filled everyday. I have been a big supporter of that as well. The central district has so many things already, we need to focus more in the south and north districts. Y: Why did you decide to seek reelection as representative of the Central District in the May 2016 City Council election? P W: I have always believed that in order to right the wrongs of the world one needs to do it from the inside where you can affect a change. I have served eight years on the Newport News City Council, and six years on the School Board and it has been an honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Newport News in both those capacities. There is a lot of work that we have started that I would like to see finished. Also I like working with students,
Courtesy Photo
many of witch are on my campaign. I have made a contribution to our city and I look forward to finishing it. I want to and like to, give back. Y: What are some of your political accomplishments that you are most proud of? Being on the school board, and being like a watchdog on city council. I want the city projects to be beneficial to all citizens. I see so much given to the ones who have the big businesses and we need to see how we can grow the small businesses in the community. I support the big ones. We are an old
Courtesy Photo
city and we have a lot of infrastructure problems and I have been supportive in fixing those problems and not on the citizen’s dimes. I have written grants especially for the school system so that way we do not have to pay so much in taxes. I have tried to be a watchdog for the people’s money because I have never been wealthy myself. I have been accused of saying no a lot, but if it does not benefit everybody I will not support it. Y: Where can people find more information about you, show their support, etc.? P W: They can go to http://www.patwoodbury.com/ welcome.html
Yiorgo is Hampton Road’s Arts and Entertainment, and Sports journalist. A stage, TV and movie actor in his own right, he is also an educator, motivational speaker, writer, storyteller, columnist, and is also involved in the colorful world of professional wrestling. 14 RENEW APRIL 2016