www.renewvamagazine.com
RENEW 4thth Women’s
Hampton Roads Peninsula MARCH 2015
Expo To Benefit:
NEW DATE SAT. MAY 16, 2015 AT THE NEW
Ramada Hotel & Conference Center
FREE ADMISSION! Special Guest Speakers Karen Endsley
Cooking From The Heart on Cox11.com
& Patricia Avila Co-Host of A Las 11 Por Las 11 on Cox11.com
HER BROKEN PLACES PT. 16
SPRING CLEAN THE CLUTTER
TATRECE SWANN
TRACY WAINWRIGHT
ASK A TEACHER
CAMPAIGN
JANICE UNDERWOOD
NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS Interview w/ Patricia Avila PG 18
HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR TAX REFUND & CUT MONTHLY EXPENSES
RENEW Magazine is a free, full color, glossy publication distributed monthly and designed for and targeted to women residing in the Hampton Roads Peninsula region of eastern Virginia. RENEW is an acronym; Revitalize, Educate, Nurture, & Empower Women. RENEW Magazine provides readers with holistic 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 Hampton, Newport News, 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. All copy is protected and cannot be reproduced or transmitted without written permission from the publisher. Orchard Business Group • Brad Orchard CEO 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 Brad Orchard Mindy & Eddie Lepp • Tatrece Swann Janice Underwood • Tracy Wainwright • Yiorgo
Cover Photography by Todd Wright of Todd Wright Photography 2 RENEW MARCH 2015
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NEW DATE - SATURDAY MAY 16, 2015 FASHION SHOW BY
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“Empowering women through resources to enhance body, mind and spirit.” RENEW Women’s Expo is a one-day fun filled lifestyle celebration event that features informative exhibits, food demos, dance demos, free vision screenings and booths highlighting products & services that are of particular interest to women. RENEW Women’s Expo will provide attendees guest presentations on their products. Attendees can shop for leisure, financial services, health and fitness and more. RENEW Women’s Expo promises to have high energy atmosphere with prizes and giveaways conducted throughout the event. P.O. Box 593 • Lightfoot, VA 23090-0593 • 757.561.5219 O • 866.297.5241 F info.renew.va@gmail.com • www.renewvamagazine.com 4 RENEW
MARCH 2015
by Megan Whiteaker, Reprinted with Permission from VA Gazette
I
s the tattoo evidence of an old relationship interfering with a new one? Do you want to delete the evidence of aging –fine wrinkles and sun spots –from your skin? Are you embarrassed by uneven pigment or excessive freckles? Erase the Canvas can boost your self-confidence and help you leave your past in the past. At Erase the Canvas, you can have laser tattoo removal, skin rejuvenation (quick, painless anti-aging procedures with immediate and lasting results), and pigment treatment that is comfortable and requires no down time. The owner/laser technician is a local pediatrician, Steven C. Mares, M.D., who has worked in the Williamsburg area for over 15 years. Patients whom he treated as a pediatrician have also visited him to have tattoos removed; it’s a unique relationship not found elsewhere. As the first laser tattoo removal specialist on the peninsula, Erase the Canvas offers the most advanced laser on the market, the Revlite SI Q-Switch Nd:YAG, as well as the SmartCool 6 cooling system which many other removal businesses do not provide. The SmartCool 6 helps numb the skin for more comfort during laser removal. Laser removal breaks up stubborn ink for removal due to a relationship breakup, old or faded tattoos, or to lighten a current tattoo so it can be covered up by a new one. “There is a story with every tattoo and sometime desire to remove the evidence of those once pleasant/ crazy memories. That’s why I opened Erase the Canvas, to assist those who either want to “erase” the ink or make it possible for their favorite artist to replace it,”says Dr. Mares. Erase the Canvas is at 304 Bulifants Boulevard, Suite 201 and the phone number is 757-532-9390. Hours are 5–8 pm Tuesday and Thursday; 1-5 pm Wednesday; and 11 am-4 pm Saturday. MARCH 2015 RENEW
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Serving Hampton Roads for 35 years!
EXPERT TIPS TO MAKE YOUR NEW HOUSE FEEL LIKE HOME
Y
ou know that moving into a new home can be one of life’s biggest stressors - the packing, the paperwork, the unpacking and of course finding the nearest coffee shop. Making your new house feel like your home can help alleviate some of this stress and provide a safe-haven for some much needed relaxation. “Everyone has a different sense of what home is,” says Elizabeth Lindmier of The Art Institute of Colorado. So while the same aesthetic won’t work for everyone, she offers her top five tips to start you in the right direction.
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6 RENEW MARCH 2015
1. Texture and textiles - Instead of having a bunch of hard surfaces, cozy up your home with something soft or textured. This could be a blanket, curtains or area rugs. These items will also provide some acoustical value so noises aren’t echoing in an empty space. 2. Comfort - Have some place in your home where you can relax, recharge and feel at ease. “Make a space where you would like to spend time,” Lindmier says. 3. Color - A monochromatic scheme with pops of colors can bring you into a place where you feel comfortable and happy. “Do your research on color theory before painting any space,” says Lindmier. “Different colors can spark different moods, emotions and even behavior. Discover what you’d like a given space to accomplish, and use colors as a tool to create such environment.” 4. Lighting - There should be aesthetically pleasing lighting. Look at the difference between warm and cool lighting colors to decide what helps achieve the look you want. Also consider task, ambient and accent lighting for your space. “Lighting plays a key role in any home,” Lindmier says. “Through lighting design you can highlight design and architectural features, create lighting which is more useful to the human eye, and work with natural light while keeping energy use to a minimum.” 5. Clutter/stuff - “Less is more, but make it more meaningful,” says Lindmier. Get rid of your clutter. When sitting in your space, make sure you can look around and adore the things you see. “Mies van der Rohe’s old adage, ‘less is more,’ certainly holds true here,” says Jackie Barry, Interior Design instructor at The Art Institute of Houston - North. “Select significant pieces of furniture and art to move. You don’t need to have or show everything you have all in one room.” Barry also advises incorporating a concept called biophilic design, which recognizes the inherent need of humans to interact and affiliate with nature to achieve and maintain optimum health and well-being. “Bring the outside in; don’t neglect good views to the outside, accentuate them,” she says. “Let your garden and landscaping work for you on the inside. Connecting with nature can also have a calming and a comforting effect.” For more information about The Art Institutes, visit artinstitutes.edu. The Art Institutes is a system of over 50 schools throughout North America. Programs, credential levels, technology, and scheduling options vary by school and are subject to change. Several institutions included in The Art Institutes system are campuses of South University or Argosy University. Administrative office: 210 Sixth Avenue, 33rd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 ©2014 The Art Institutes International LLC. Our email address is csprogramadmin@edmc.edu.
HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR TAX REFUND AND CUT MONTHLY
EXPENSES
T
ax season is in full swing and everyone is hoping for a refund from Uncle Sam. What will you do with yours? Whether it’s several hundred or several thousand, if you use your refund smartly, it can provide the jumpstart to boosting your budget and living financially well this year and beyond.
mind by setting money aside for the unexpected. It’s a much smarter alternative than turning to high-interest credit cards in a pinch, plus you’ll earn interest while your money sits safe and secure in an account.
Americans expect to cash in during tax season, as nearly three-quarters of all taxpayers anticipate they’ll receive a return of $500 or more this year, according to a national survey conducted by Straight Talk Wireless. Furthermore, nearly 80 percent of Americans consider tax season as a time to think about ways to save money.
A cellphone bill can be one of your largest recurring monthly expenses. Tax season is the ideal time to shop around to find an affordable plan that meets your needs. For example, Straight Talk Wireless offers the same phones on America’s most reliable network, but at a fraction of the cost. For just $45 a month, you can get a no-contract unlimited talk, text and data plan with the first 3GB of data at high speed. Visit www.straighttalk.com to learn more.
This year, maximize your refund with these five simple tips for getting your money fast, putting it to work for you and slashing monthly costs: 1. Get your refund ASAP Want your refund as fast as possible? Skip the snail mail paper check and choose direct deposit into your checking or savings account instead. The IRS states direct deposit is the fastest, safest way to receive your tax refund, and better yet, people who combine e-file and direct deposit can get their refunds in as few as 10 days.
Finally, consider the benefits of buying in bulk and stock up on affordable alternatives to your favorite foods, such as frozen vegetables, canned fruits and generic cereals.
3. Cut your cellphone plan in half
4. Lower your utility bill Consider using part of your refund to invest in items to lower your utility bill and enjoy savings all year long. One of the best options is a programmable thermostat - an affordable upgrade that lets you adjust the temperature when you’re not home. By turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for 8 hours while away, you can save up to 15 percent a year on your heating bill, states the U.S. Department of Energy. 5. Shop smart at the grocery store
2. Start an emergency fund If you don’t already have money designated for a rainy day, your tax refund can be a great way to give your savings a boost. Resist temptation to spend every penny and give yourself peace of
Grocery bills hurting your budget? Adopt a new approach starting now. First, never underestimate the impact of shopping sales and using coupons. Next, always make a list and stick to it - it cuts impulse shopping (and your bill) dramatically. MARCH 2015 RENEW
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EASY, AFFORDABLE AND SMART WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM WINTER WEATHER EMERGENCIES
S
now and ice, high winds, bone-chilling cold, heavy rains and flooding - no matter where you live, some form of weatherrelated crisis may put your home, family and belongings at risk this winter. Before the worst of it arrives, it pays to take some vital steps to ensure you’ll be protected throughout the season. Americans filed insurance claims that totaled nearly $2 billion in insured losses during 2013, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Weather-related power outages cost $25 billion to $70 billion per year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. To ensure your home and family are protected through winter, take these easy, affordable and smart steps to prepare: • Create a family disaster plan so everyone knows what to do if severe weather hits. Your plan should detail whether everyone should remain inside the house if they’re home or where to find appropriate shelter if they’re out. • Prepare a home emergency kit. Your kit should include a set of warm clothes for every family member, blankets, bottled water, non-perishable foods, necessary medications, first aid supplies, a battery-operated radio with extra batteries, a flashlight, matches, a list of emergency contact numbers, and a solar cellphone charger so you can stay in communication without power. • Inspect your home to ensure it’s ready for
winter. Look at critical areas that may bear the brunt of a storm, such as the roof, windows and doors. Check the insulation in your attic to ensure it’s adequate and in good condition, and have your furnace and water heater professionally inspected to confirm proper functioning. • Install a backup generator to protect vital home systems - such as heat, lights and refrigeration - in case of power outages. Standby power is an affordable way to protect your home from the damages that can be associated with a power outage. A standby generator permanently connects to a home like a central air conditioning unit and automatically turns on when power is lost. Companies like Kohler are starting to offer more compact-sized, affordable standby generators that are ideal for smaller homes, cabins or situations requiring less power. An 8, 10 or 12 kilowatt standby generator will power a few key items during an outage, such as a refrigerator, lights and sump pump. This will help keep your home upand-running and will protect those who are most vulnerable during a power outage, including seniors and young children. Visit www.kohlergenerators.com to learn more. • Bookmark the National Weather Service’s mobile website on your smartphone so you can check official weather reports. Check with your mobile service provider to ensure your phone is set up to receive severe weather alerts. While winter storms are unavoidable, with some preparation it’s possible to avoid many of the damages and risks associated with severe weather and keep your home safe and your family comfortable.
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SPRING CLEAN THE CLUTTER Tatrece Dunl ap Swann
S
pring cleaning has been traditionally ritualized in the West. It’s when we take inventory of the things we’ve had for a while that have gone unused, or the things you’ve had for a while get removed, ignored areas get refreshed and we open the windows to let the fresh air come through. One thing is for sure, we know that with Spring cleaning projects, it’s a deep clean that goes well beyond the surface... when you may have to move furniture and find that you’re pleasantly surprised to find things you’ve misplaced.
postponed?
All of the aforementioned can assist with an exterior change, but I’ve found that greater self confidence facilitates the best interior change, and it doesn’t require you to spend money. Change comes by the renewing of your mind, but when your mind and your life are cluttered by old ways of thinking or the wrong people, then your life can become routine, stale and outright boring....predictable to some extent. That stale feeling comes from the routine of doing the same thing the same way for so long. Much like the dust Metaphorically speaking, the same bunnies that sit on window treatments for analogy above can be applied to our lives. months that instead of going away, they We don’t often take the opportunity to only get larger. A new hairstyle, going back spruce up the stale areas of our lives. to school or finding a new hobby is much What have been some outdated things like opening the windows to allow the that need to be updated in your life? fresh air into those stale places and A new personal makeover, which may cleaning off those dust bunnies. include a new hairstyle, a wardrobe or career change, or how about that class What are the benefits of a deep, you’ve been longing to take but
10 RENEW MARCH 2015
intentional Spring cleaning? I know for me, a clean house that’s clutter free with everything in it’s proper place gives me peace of mind, and it allows me to see pathways more clearly. In your personal life it keeps your mind, body and spirit in the right place, you’re better able to reach your full potential, and you’ll to see things for what they really are...or not. Happy Cleaning!
SPRING PROJECTS THAT ARE SURE TO SPRUCE UP
YOUR HOME
W
armer weather and sunnier days are on their way and many homeowners are itching to begin home improvement projects. If you are one of them, consider these areas of your home when prepping for spring. Windows and doors From a full window replacement to a simple coat of paint, updating your windows and doors can have a big impact on your home. If your windows felt drafty this winter, it may be time for replacements. Replace your old single-pane windows with energy-efficient double-pane windows. Double-pane windows can help you save on heating and cooling bills; they help keep the temperature in your home consistent year-round and help protect your furniture, carpet and window treatments from the sun’s fading rays. Need to bring some fresh color into your home but don’t want to paint? Try updating your blinds or shades. From different styles to colorful fabrics, blinds and shades can add a pop of color to your room. Motorized blinds and shades with Pella Insynctive technology come in more than 300 style and color options so you can find the right fit for your home’s decor.
coat of paint to your existing door is a quick and debris from gathering in gutters throughout the year. easy way to give your home a fresh, new look. Give Pantone’s Color of the Year marsala a try, Air conditioning or get inspired by your favorite Pinterest collection of favorite front doors. It may be a few more months before you’re turning on the A/C, but spring is a great time Gutters and downspouts to start getting your cooling system ready. Excess water near your foundation can cause Often you have to call in the pros for air thousands of dollars in damages. Luckily gutter cleaning and downspout repair is fairly low-cost. conditioning work but things like spraying off any overgrowth or debris, cleaning coils and changing filters are fixes you can easily do on After all the snow melts, you’ll want to make your own. Also, trim back any shrubs that are sure to clean your gutters and clean out any near by. Keeping the outdoor unit clean from debris that may keep spring rains from flowing debris will boost your A/C system’s efficiency. freely through your downspouts. Along with replacing damaged gutter or downspout sections, you’ll also want to make sure you have added downspout extenders to ensure water is draining far away from your home’s foundation. Extenders should reach at least five feet into your yard. Gutter covers can also be added to minimize
You can keep part of your indoor duct work clean by removing register covers and wiping clean any of the visible parts. You’ll need to contact a professional for a full duct cleaning. Visit Pella Windows and Doors on Pinterest or Houzz for more home tips and design inspiration, or visit Pella.com for product information.
Your front door is a major focal point of your home, enhancing your home’s curb appeal. Make a bold statement and improve your home’s energy efficiency with a new ENERGY STAR-certified front door. Consider options with decorative glass accents, and sidelights to add more natural light while maintaining a sense of style and privacy. Looking for something even easier? A new MARCH 2015 RENEW
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WHAT’S YOUR PATH TO RETIREMENT HAPPINESS?
R
etirees have a message for people still working but wondering what life might be like once they retire: “Come on in, the water’s warm.” But they also say that it pays to plan, the earlier the better, because retirement might come sooner than you expect.
had at least $50,000 in savings and investments.
A recent study, sponsored by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), found that approximately eight in 10 retirees are enjoying themselves in retirement, seven in 10 can afford a comfortable lifestyle, and two-thirds feel financially secure. The survey also indicated that few retirees characterize themselves as being bored, lonely or anxious, and nearly half (45 percent) retired sooner than they expected.
“The study provides Americans with a roadmap for enjoying a happy, secure and fulfilling retirement,” says Elaine Sarsynski, executive vice president of MassMutual Retirement Services. “There was a clear distinction between what steps the happiest retirees took compared to those who were less fulfilled.”
The study, Hopes, Fears and Reality - What Workers Expect in Retirement and What Steps Help Them Achieve the Retirement They Want, polled more than 900 retirees one to 15 years into retirement and another 900 plus pre-retirees one to 15 years before retirement, all of whom
The research paints a positive picture of retiree lifestyles and adaptability. More importantly, it provides insights into the most important steps to take in preparing for a happy retirement.
Among the steps taken by the happiest retirees were the following: • Calculated the best time to begin collecting Social Security benefits. The qualifying age for receiving full benefits is gradually moving to age 67, depending on your birthdate. The benefit is
reduced for those who take it sooner. For those who wait, the benefit increases each year until age 70. • Targeted how much money they would need to retire comfortably and estimated their medical and dental expenses in retirement. It was a prudent step as many people said their medical and dental expenses were higher in retirement than anticipated. • Created a budget for their retirement income and expenses and made an effort to increase their savings at least five years before stopping work. The 2015 contribution limit for 401(k) plans and other employer-sponsored retirement plans is $18,000 plus an additional $6,000 for employees age 50 and older. • Worked with a financial advisor. The overwhelming majority found their advisor to be helpful in preparing for retirement. • Made new friends and/or re-connected with old friends before retiring. While it’s important for everyone to have a social network, it’s especially important for retirees. • Focused on strengthening the relationship with their spouse or significant other. In many instances, pre-retirees find they need to reestablish their relationship with their significant other when children leave the nest. • Developed a new hobby or cultivated new interests to make life more fulfilling. “Whether retirement came as planned, late or early, the majority of today’s retirees will tell you that a happy, comfortable and secure retirement is an attainable goal,” Sarsynski says. “With common sense and planning, all of us can aspire to a fulfilling retirement reality.”
14 RENEW MARCH 2015
Part 16
Her Broken Places
BY TRACY WAINWRIGHT Marla downed the last swallow of her now tepid coffee and tossed the cup in the trashcan by the door. For the first time in almost two weeks she had a break in her schedule. Her lunch break of three hours loomed in front of her. People were starting to get back to normal, somewhat. Businesses were beginning to reopen. There were actually three working gas stations in the small town of Harrisville now. Families were either gathering what they needed to start rebuilding or move. There was still months of work ahead, but little glimmers of hope were popping up spontaneously. The necklace she’d found in the rubble the week before had been the beginning. It allowed her to see past the negative to the positive and
Ramada
possibilities. And that had helped her counsel better. As she pushed the door open, the sun shone brightly in contrast to her dim office lighting. She shaded her eyes and surveyed the landscape. Yes, there was certainly plenty of work left to do. She had some extra time today and couldn’t think of a better way to use it. Stopping by her car, she grabbed a bottle of water and pair of work gloves. It seemed several of the workers were focusing on cleaning up a few doors down from the Porters. Every day she met knew volunteers, traveling from all over the country to come help people they didn’t know. It had been an added blessing as she served with the disaster relief ministry. She could hardly believe she’d been there twelve days already. She’d extended her time one more week, but knew that was all the time she could take off work. Her clients back home needed her too. She smiled as she approached and saw two unfamiliar faces. She opened her mouth to introduce herself when a third new volunteer turned and met her gaze. Her jaw dropped. She had to be seeing things. It couldn’t be. But it was. How in the world had Carlos located her in the middle of a disaster states away from home? His grin and the gleam in his eyes showed it hadn’t been an accident. “Hey, Marla,” he called to her when she remained silent. No words came still. Heat did, though. Her cheeks burned with what she was sure wasn’t from the sun. Carlos pointed to the two guys she didn’t
recognize. “This is Paul and Germaine. We went to college together. They’ve volunteered for stuff like this before and when they invited me, I couldn’t resist.” The guy he’d introduced as Paul looked at Carlos over his sunglasses. “Invited you? If I recall–.” Carlos jabbed him in the arm. “Funny guy. Anyway, how crazy is it that I ran into you out here? I mean I wondered if we’d bump into each other, but there are so many places needing help…” “Crazy.” Finally, she was able to get a word out. The hammering of her heart told her she was way too happy about him showing up. Getting away for a while and distracting herself hadn’t diminished her attraction to him at all. Germaine tossed some trash behind him in the bin they’d been loading and took off his glove. She accepted his extended hand. “Nice to meet you, Marla. We’ve heard a lot about you.” With raised eyebrows, she returned her gaze to Carlos. No. This was definitely not a coincidence. Now she had to figure out what to do with the situation. Both his persistence, and her heart’s refusal to listen to her.
by Tracy Wainwright, Home Manager, Writer, Speaker, Conference Director
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FORGET FAD DIETS AND FOCUS ON
HEALTH
I
f you recently committed to managing your weight or dieting, it may be time to change your approach. For long-term results, ditch fad dieting and adopt a balanced approach to eating with a focus on healthy foods. (Family Features)
Being healthy isn’t just about fitting into skinny jeans. According to a recent national survey, there are many reasons why women consider dieting: 68 percent want to improve their health, 51 percent want to look their best, and 39 percent want to have more energy. With these goals in mind, it may not come as a surprise that survey participants reported being on an average of nine diets in their lifetimes. In fact, 76 percent of American women who have dieted admit to having tried a fad diet.
However, nearly two out of three women believe fad diets are difficult to maintain. What’s more, these diets may even be unhealthy, according to the Weight-control Information Network (WIN). Some fad diets fail to provide your body with the nutrients your body needs. In addition, sustained rapid weight loss can increase your risk of gallbladder problems, and heart problems can result from consuming too few calories for too long.
To maintain a healthy weight and healthier lifestyle, the experts at WIN suggest focusing on establishing these healthy habits: * Choose healthy foods, with a diet rich in fruits and veggies. * Manage calorie intake and portion size. Keep on track by using a smaller plate, paying close attention to nutrition labels and weighing portions on a scale. * Make exercise part of your daily life. Even activities such as gardening or taking the stairs can make a difference. Managing your metabolism - how your body uses calories - is another key to healthy eating. Eating foods that deliver plenty of protein and fiber are all keys to maximizing your metabolism. When it comes to healthy food, look for wholesome, nutritious options, even when you snack. For example, new Great Grains Granolas and The Bar Undone snack mixes are the first non-cereal Great Grains offerings. Made with less processed ingredients for more wholesome nutrition in every handful, each serving of Great Grains The Bar Undone snack mix has at least 8 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber. One halfcup serving of new Great Grains Granola contains at least 26 grams of whole grains. “At Great Grains, we believe when it comes to healthy eating, the secret is, there is no secret,” said Mangala D’Sa, Senior Director of Marketing for Post Foods. “A fad-free diet, complete with wholesome, nutritious foods is key to healthy eating.” A balanced approach to eating, coupled with a few lifestyle changes, are all the tools you need to succeed on your weight control quest. For more smart eating tips and recipes, visit www.greatgrains.com.
16 RENEW MARCH 2015
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(Family Features)
hen you are looking to serve up a taste of yesteryear, look no further than your pantry for a staple you can incorporate into meals, including snacks, breakfast, dinners and even desserts. Instant white or brown rice and multi-grain blends provide easy ways to put a fresh twist on traditional recipes your family knows and loves. For a delicious, modern take on classic family favorites, look for ways to integrate current flavors that complement the original recipe. Start new family mealtime traditions with easy recipe make≠overs. For example, traditional broccoli, cheese and rice casserole only gets better with bacon, and using quinoa adds a subtle new texture. You can also give your sweet potato casserole a lift with white or brown rice for an updated take on this revered dish. Using a quick and wholesome ingredient like fluffy Minute Rice saves cooking time so you can trans≠form your favorite recipes while spending less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones. These recipes demonstrate how to update recipes from a frittata and casserole to dressing and stuffing for new ways to enjoy the classics. Explore more recipes and preparation tips at www.minuterice.com.
Brown Rice Frittata with Bacon and Edamame Servings: 6-8 1 cup Minute® Brown Rice 4 thick cut bacon slices, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 4 scallions, thinly sliced (whites and greens divided) 1 cup frozen shelled edamame 6 eggs 3/4 cup sour cream, divided 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Preheat oven to 400∞F.
1 cup Minute® White Rice or Minute® Brown Rice, uncooked 1 large egg, lightly beaten 1 can (5 ounces) evaporated skim milk 1 can (15 ounces) sweet potatoes, drained 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 cups miniature marshmallows Preheat oven to 400∞F.
Prepare rice according to package directions.
Measure reserved pineapple juice and add enough water to make 1 cup. Prepare rice according to package directions using juice-water mixture.
Melt butter or margarine in large skillet over medium heat. Add walnuts; cook and stir until lightly toasted. Add onions and celery; cook and stir until crisp-tender.
Prepare rice according to package directions. While rice cooks, sauté bacon pieces in 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat until starting to crisp, about 5 minutes. Drain off all but 1 tablespoon bacon fat, then add scallion whites and edamame (or if desired, use 1 cup frozen green peas) to the bacon in the pan and sauté 1 minute. Add cooked rice, and sauté 1 minute. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, 1/2 cup sour cream and salt. Add egg mixture to pan, swirling gently to distribute mixture evenly throughout other ingredients. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, until edges look set. Then place pan in preheated oven until set in center, about 10 minutes.
In large bowl combine pineapple, rice, egg, milk, sweet potatoes and cinnamon. Mix well. Spread in 2-quart casserole dish. Top with marshmallows.
Sweet Potato Rice Casserole Servings: 6 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple in natural juice, drained (reserve juice)
Stir in rice and remaining ingredients. Heat thoroughly, stirring occasionally.
Bake 20 minutes, or until marshmallows begin to brown. Honey Nut Dressing Servings: 6 1 cup Minute® Brown Rice, uncooked 1 tablespoon butter or margarine 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Ramada Hotel & Conference Center
Mix together scallion greens with remaining 1/4 cup sour cream. Serve frittata in wedges topped with a dollop of scallion cream.
3/4 cup chopped onion 3/4 cup chopped celery 1/2 cup raisins 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional) 2 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon salt
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Francisco De Asis. She started modeling at the age of 18. Shortly after getting married, she put her career on hold. Patricia and her husband, like most young couples in foreign countries, decided to come to the United States for a better life and more opportunities. By the time Patricia’s youngest child was 2 and a half years old, she decided to go in search for a modeling agency to restart her career. What she found was an agency in Richmond which wanted to represent her and her two young boys, so Patricia started modeling as a family.
NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR
DREAMS In Acting, you are representing a character and TV Hosting you are engaging people and you are a personality.
Patricia Avila has worked with Busch Patricia found that not knowing English was a Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg, Disney Magic Show, appeared in TV shows FBI, deterrent in finding steady work. But that Happily Never After, Monsters & Mysteries didn’t stop her. At one time, Patricia was of America, music videos, movies (Letters of juggling running a “Calling Card” business, Lost Faith & Border Town) and several raising her two boys and auditioning. print campaigns. RENEW: How do you balanced work and personal life?
I
t never ceases to amaze me the fortitude some women have. Some have overcome great obstacles to realize their dreams. As I spoke with Patricia Avila, local Co-Host of the first Latino Show in the Hampton Roads, A Las 11 por el 11, it was soon evident, she was a hard worker. Patricia Avila is a native of Montevideo, Uruguay and a graduate of Colegio San
Patricia: “You have to work hard. Follow your dreams. Opportunity doesn’t always come knocking at your door, you might get 80 no’s and 3 yeses. Always learning how to manage your life.”
RENEW Magazine is excited to have Patricia Avila as one of our Special Guest Speakers at RENEW Women’s Expo scheduled for May 19, 2015 at the Ramada Hotel & Conference Center located at 500 Merrimac Trail, Williamsburg.
RENEW: You are involved in several mediums such as Acting, Commercials, TV Hosting, Print Advertising, how the they differ? Patricia: In print, it is you and the camera.
SHIP EARLY FOR EASTER
Patricia Avila on the set with Will Rodriguez, Producer & Co-Host Ricardo Alegria
18 RENEW MARCH 2015
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