July-Aug 2016 by Phenomenal Woman Magazine

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MONIQUE WINSTON CEO of OPTIMA Lender Services: A testament to following your calling FREE

JULY-AUGUST 2016

GLORIA WARE

TRACY OLIVER

DR. RUTH A. WASHINGTON

“She's About the Business of Growing Businesses”

Heath Oliver Distinguished Director Award Recipient

Leads KSU’s Efforts in Diverse Faculty and Student Retention

From the Editor: Shelley M. Shockley Let's celebrate the Uniqueness of Everyone!

adies (and hopefully gentlemen), can we be open and frank with one another? We are all wonderfully created, and each of us has something unique that we bring to the table. That's REAL TALK! To try and bring this point home, I'm asking each of you to sit still for a moment. Now close your eyes, and imagine your world as a place where only people that looked like you reside. Looks a little boring, doesn't it? Each year, we take one edition and focus on the vast amounts of diversity that exist in our small corner of the world, and based on the news coming from across the globe – now is definitely a time to celebrate Diversity! I won't delve into the current political climate too long, but I think that it is important that we all recognize and understand the results of divisiveness laced with hatred. There is a distinct difference in being divided on issues, but when it becomes mean, hurtful and incites violence, we have a problem. America has historically prided itself on being the “land of the free and home of the brave,” as well as being a country that welcomed all because variety truly is “the spice of life.” Now, clichés aside, if we didn't live in a country where we celebrated diversity, we would not have President Barack Obama sitting in the Oval Office at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. If we look back a few years, we can see that we also would not have had President John F. Kennedy either. Obama is the first African-American president and Kennedy was the first Catholic president. As you sit through this election cycle, keep these things in mind and use the above experiment to determine the world you want to live in. If we all begin to become familiar with the cultures, nuances and beliefs of others, then maybe we could at least make informed decisions when we say we don't like someone or something. Over the next few months, let's all commit ourselves to learning something new about another race, religion, or gender. Also, think about adding in those who suffer from disabilities that set them apart from you and me. If you take this challenge, I would love to hear your feedback. What did you learn? How does this new knowledge shape your perceptions? Has this new information prompted you to act differently? If so, how? If you are struggling with where to start, continue to turn the pages of this magazine, and we have a few phenomenal women to share with you. These are women working to focus on the best qualities in us all. 2 ▒ JULY-AUGUST 2016

Monique Winston, chief executive officer of OPTIMA Lender Services is a leader in her own right. OPTIMA is one of only a few African American owned national title agencies located in Cleveland, Ohio. While striving to grow her business and in the process create jobs and economic opportunities, Winston is also active in the community, where those young and old alike can see that with hard work and perseverance you can achieve success. Driven by her vision, Winston is breaking down that glass ceiling and her journey is inspirational. If you're thinking about launching your own business in the city of Cleveland, then you need to know Gloria Ware, vice president of Inclusion at JumpStart. Ware is an advocate for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and woman-owned businesses. The work she does runs the gamut from helping to find space, investors, advice and just supporting their dream. This passion leads her to research the small business market collecting data that supports her belief that proper leveraging of diversity results in financial growth. In the world of academia, diversity has long received a greater level of focus than in the general populace and there isn't a local institution that exemplifies this more than Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C). The college is a leader in providing opportunities to the under-served, and creating programs that will assist in the growth of these individuals. Recently, the Cuyahoga Community College Foundation Board of Directors has chosen to honor Dominion East Ohio's Tracy Oliver as the recipient of its Heath Oliver Distinguished Director Award. As the director of media and local affairs, Tracy Oliver has been a true champion of diversity in both her job and as a member of the Board of Directors. Kent State University's Executive Director for Faculty and Graduate Student Retention, Inclusion and Success, Dr. Ruth A. Washington leads the university wide efforts in diverse faculty and student retention through the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the College of Graduate Studies and the Office of the Provost. The success she has achieved includes among others addressing issues in micro-inequities and intrinsic biases through training of deans, chairs and faculty to recognize cultural challenges. For her work she is being recognized as a Diversity Champion. Enjoy this edition, and remember to embrace your uniqueness as well as the unique qualities of others! Until next time,

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Beletu (Bele') Wondwossen

Founder / Publisher Shelley M. Shockley

Managing Editor Writers Shelley M. Shockley Ruby Lee Gamble A. Michele Garrett Kim Brown

Creative Bele’ Wondwossen

Cover Story: Shelley M. Shockley Photo: Photography by Melody

Contributors Michelle Phillips Fay Stephanie Phelps Deborah Prince Kimberly Smith-Woodford Marjorie Clark

Guest Contributors Dr. Angela Kyei Dr. Helen Muga Rose Ann Chiurazzi

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Phenomenal Woman Magazine A subsidiary of Atlantic Creative Productions 5247 Wilson Mills Road #141 Cleveland, OH 44143

Material may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form of this publication without prior permission from the publisher. Produced and printed in OHIO, USA.

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CONTENTS

20 Stephanie Phelps A woman's place is everywhere!

Gloria Ware, Principal Inclusion - JumpStart “She's About the Business of Growing Businesses”

Free Health Fair at...

Dr. Angela Kyei Hair Loss and Menopause

10 12 MONIQUE S. WINSTON 14 17 28 CEO of OPTIMA Lender Services: A testament to following your calling

Tracy Oliver, Director, Media, OH-Dominion Honored for Distinguished Service

Diversity Champion: Dr. Ruth A. Washington Executive Director, KSU 4 Essential Strategies for Growing Your Business Useful items to keep your home elegantly organized

Delicious Recipes

18 24 27 32

Movie Reviews www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 5

ANNUAL PROFESSIONAL APPLIANCE INSPECTIONS ENSURE MAXIMUM NATURAL GAS COMFORT, SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY

ominion East Ohio reminds customers that annual inspections -- by qualified, reputable contractors -- can help ensure year-round safety, comfort and efficiency from furnaces, water heaters and other natural gas appliances. Besides helping customers receive maximum value for their energy dollars, an annual appliance inspection may prevent any potential carbon monoxide problems. Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors provide a second line of defense, but they should not be used as a substitute for an annual furnace inspection. Combined with an annual inspection, however, CO detectors, placed in each bedroom, can offer additional peace of mind. Along with that annual inspection, customers should change furnace filters according to the manufacturer's instructions to receive the best possible value for their heating dollars. While checking a furnace, the contractor should make a visual inspection of all vents, heat exchangers and motors. Dominion notes that a thorough inspection should include: · ·

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Lubricating the blower bearings and blower motor as recommended by the manufacturer; Visually inspecting all vents, the heat exchanger and filters; Checking the pilot light if the furnace has one; Cleaning and checking the flame sensor if you have a higher-efficiency furnace that does not have a pilot light; Cleaning the main burners; Clearing the furnace area of any dust or combustible materials; Cleaning dust from the blower compartment; Testing the thermostat to ensure the heating system works as it should; Checking the safety components on the heating equipment, such as limit controls and pilot safety and pressure switches; Checking the flue to ensure it is clean and open. Any fuel that does not burn completely can create harmful levels of carbon monoxide. The gas can collect in a home if a fuelburning appliance is not working or venting properly;

Customers should make sure an annual inspection includes all other gas appliances, such as water heaters, gas logs, vent-free heaters, ranges and clothes dryers. For more information about Dominion, visit the company's website at www.dom.com.

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Simply Stephanie

Living in Destiny©

A woman's place is everywhere!

By Stephanie Phelps PWM Contributing Writer

Women are doing marvelous things – accomplishing amazing feats and it's no wonder, really. Women have historically and continue to make strides in entrepreneurship, government, law enforcement, philanthropy, the arts, athletics, and the business community in this county and throughout the world.

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When it comes to diversity, women nudge, inspire, cajole, demand and command change to ensure the way of inclusivity for one and all. Today women are clearly leading the way, albeit in ways different than men. As women lead and take on roles, once reserved only for men, there will be a broader and more diverse outlook on ways to solve problems and to bring about sweeping change, which leads to peace and justice in the world. While more women diversify and increase their standing in the world and take on these additional responsibilities, there will be a welcoming place for everyone with greater value for the sanctity of life. Of this I am sure. As this column is being written, Hillary Clinton is the presumptive democratic nominee for President of the United States of America. This is a fact that is history making, glass shattering and even earth shaking. Clinton's achievement also begs the question -- is the U.S. ready for another highly visible and dramatic change in its leadership? Ultimately, the American voters will decide.

Then there is Nakia Jones, a northeast Ohio police officer, who wears the badge in the mostly black suburb of Warrensville Heights. Jones spoke vehemently about the police killing of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Jones made a passionate plea in a Facebook post that went viral, telling her fellow officers in blue they are not worthy of wearing the uniform, if they are unable of embracing the people who live in the communities they are sworn to protect and serve.

Inspiring Women To Reach Their Highest Potential! phenomenal

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Follow me on Twitter: Stephanie Phelps@livingindestiny Website: anotherlookwithstephaniephelps.com 8 ▒ JULY-AUGUST 2016

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In recent days race relations in this country have reached a fever pitch. Not surprisingly, women have been front and center in bringing about awareness of the ills of excessive force by police. Diamond Reynolds's live Facebook stream of her boyfriend's killing by police in Minnesota caused protests and outcries for justice and police reform.

Making COLLABORATION, INCLUSION AND

ENGAGEMENT KEY TO DIVERSITY AT KENT STATE

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Gloria Ware, Principal of Inclusion at JumpStart Inc.

“She's About the Business of Growing Businesses” By Kimberly Smith-Woodford PWM Contributing Writer

loria Ware has spent most of her career advocating for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and woman-owned businesses. That's her passion.

This passion was fueled while working in the Black Student Programs office of The Ohio State University and has culminated with her role as Principal of Inclusion at JumpStart Inc. JumpStart is one of the nation's first venture development organizations, tasked with helping early-stage entrepreneurs obtain needed space, investment, advice, support and connections resulting in over ten thousand jobs created since its inception in 2003, and along the way helped raise $1.7 billion in capital. JumpStart's mission is “to strengthen the economic vitality of Northeast Ohio and the U.S. by helping communities realize their entrepreneurial potential.” It strives to unlock the full potential of diverse and ambitious entrepreneurs to economically transform entire communities. Gloria, a graduate of The Ohio State University with a B.S. in international Business administration is about the 10 ▒ JULY-AUGUST 2016

business of growing businesses. She's responsible for pursuing inclusion opportunities and providing guidance to entrepreneurs seeking to be successful small businesses. Prior to joining JumpStart, Gloria was Vice President of Public Funds at Fifth Third Bank where she participated in the sourcing, execution and maintenance of more than $100 Million in debt underwriting and interest rate hedging transactions that helped public sector and nonprofit entities achieve their missions. She previously served as Vice President and Small Business Banking Officer with National City Bank (now PNC), where she supported entrepreneurs in their efforts to secure financing, manage cash flow and maximize operational efficiency. With an extensive expertise in finance and business development coupled with a passion for community engagement, Gloria is a sought-after thought and respected leader, who serves within and outside of JumpStart on opportunities and programming regarding inclusion for minorities. “I want to ensure that we are fully l e ve ra g i n g d i ve r s i t y t h r o u g h a l l a s p e c t s o f entrepreneurship – new entrepreneurs, talent working for those companies, mentors, board members, investors, and suppliers,” says Ware.

She shared an interesting fact from a report put out by the McKinsey Diversity Database about firms with a diverse workforce versus firms that are not.

Both programs are aimed at reducing the stress and fear associated with business ownership, and while these are good steps, she adds, more has to be done.

Companies in the top quartile for Gender Diversity are 15% more likely to financially outperform those who are not;

She offers the following as ways to achieve this, “Raise awareness, advocate for change, and adopt policies and programs that seek to mitigate those headwinds.”

Companies that are Ethnically Diverse are 35% more likely to financially outperform firms who are not.

Ware also understands the challenges that come with balancing work life with family responsibilities. She acknowledges that she, fortunately, has had a great support system of family members who enabled her to manage her family responsibilities while pursuing her impressive 25-year career in the banking business.

Although the numbers speak for themselves, Ware says she encounters challenges in getting people to understand that diversity and inclusion is not only the right thing to do, but when properly implemented, it can make firms successful. This can be achieved by effectively leveraging a diverse workforce, business board and by actively including them in the decision making process and ideation sessions, she said. Another challenge she mentions is the lack of support for women and minority entrepreneurs. Ware says JumpStart has two programs that respond to this need, Focus Fund and Core City: Cleveland Program. While the 'Focus Fund' invests seed capital in tech-based companies led by minority or female entrepreneurs throughout Ohio – as well as those willing to move to the state, 'The Core City: Cleveland Program, assists entrepreneurs and small business owners in underserved areas of Cleveland

She serves as a board member for the Greater Cleveland Neighborhood Centers Association and for Youth Opportunities Unlimited, an organization which helps at risk teens to succeed in school, life and work using the tools of summer jobs and entrepreneurship. Along the way, Gloria received several civic honors including the City Year Idealism in Action and the S & A Consulting Relationship Builder Award. She has been inducted into the Kaleidoscope Magazine 40/40 Club and profiled by Who's Who in Black Cleveland for her role as a banking advocate for women-owned businesses. Gloria continues her work opening doors for entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses on the road to fulfilling her hopes of creating jobs that result in a vibrant and hopeful community. What lies ahead for this Phenomenal Woman is nothing short of glory!

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Busting 5 Common Myths about FDA and Women's Health By Dr. Marjorie Jenkins, Director of Medical Initiatives and Stakeholder Engagement, Office of Women's Health, U.S. Food and Drug Administration As a doctor and medical school professor, I have seen firsthand that men and women experience the same health problems in different ways. Physical factors like body size or hormones can influence how diseases affect women and how treatments work for them. My experiences motivated me to work toward more personalized care by focusing on sex and gender differences in my research, teaching, and clinical care. They also led me to the FDA Office of Women's Health, where I work to educate health professionals and the public about women's health. Sometimes, I act as a myth-buster, meaning I share how FDA uses information about sex differences in our work and counter common myths about FDA that can mislead people about their treatments. I wanted to do some myth-busting for you with the hope that these facts and resources will help you make informed decisions about the use of FDA-regulated medical products. FACT: FDA examines medical products to see if they work differently for women as compared to men. FDA looks for sex differences when reviewing products. Since 1998, FDA has required companies to present data showing the effectiveness and safety of drugs for women and men. Information about known sex differences is included in the labeling for your medicine and drug trials snapshots. Because some problems don't become apparent until after the product is approved, FDA also monitors and alerts the public about sex differences in side effects after the product is in widespread use.

FACT: FDA does not pay for and conduct the clinical trials that test new drugs or medical devices. It is a common misconception that FDA runs clinical trials on new medical products. We do not. However, we do provide guidance to companies on how to report clinical trials data when they submit product applications for FDA review. FACT: Women are generally in clinical trials. Today, women are not excluded. We have made progress in many areas. FDA continues to monitor women's participation and raise awareness about the importance of diverse women joining clinical trials. FACT: Since 1987, FDA has required that animal drug studies be performed in both male and female animals. Before products meant for both men and women are tested in people, they are first tested in male and female animals. FACT: FDA can't tell a drug company how to price their product. FDA reviews and approves products but has no authority over the price of the product. Price is determined by the company. Now that I have busted these common myths, I encourage you to learn more about your medicines and medical devices. FDA has resources to help you talk to your health care provider about your medicines. You can also visit FDA.gov for more information on other products. Source: WomenHealth.Gov www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me â&#x2013;&#x2019; 13

Figure 1: Female pattern Hair loss Source: http://www.ijdvl.com/viewimage.asp?img=ijdvl_2013

Hair Loss and Menopause

By Angela Kyei, MD, MPH Hair loss or alopecia is a common condition affecting both men and women. It is often experienced during the later yeas in life, particularly in women undergoing menopause or post-menopausal. Though it is not life threatening, it is particularly devastating because of the visibility of the condition which often impacts self-esteem and selfimage. There are many different types of alopecia but for the purposes of this article, the focus will be on the types of alopecia linked to hormonal fluctuations during menopause, namely androgenetic alopecia, and telogen effluvium. Menopause is a condition by which women transition from having menstrual cycles to being anovulatory. In other words, they lose the ability to reproduce. It occurs commonly in women in their late 40's or early 50's. This transition, results in several important hormonal changes, which greatly impact the hair cycle and hair growth. There is a precipitous drop in the hormone estrogen, which is thought to be protective of hair. Moreover, the other hormones, testosterone and dihidrotestosterone (DHT), which promotes hair loss remains high and unchecked by estrogen. The resulting hormonal imbalance greatly impacts the hair cycle and the hair follicle itself, potentially leading to shedding, thinning of the hair, and slowed growth rate. 14 â&#x2013;&#x2019; JULY-AUGUST 2016

The hair follicle cycles between periods of growth, called anagen and periods of shedding called telogen. In general, 85 percent of all hair follicles are in the growth phase, and about 10 percent are always in the shedding phase. This cycle can be greatly impacted by hormonal changes, sometimes causing excessive shedding greater than the normal 10 percent. This type of hair loss, resulting in excessive shedding is called telogen effluvium. In addition, the hair fiber, the part of the hair sticking out from the scalp, can become thin and short, due to these hormonal changes resulting in a pattern of hair loss called female pattern hair loss (FPHL) or androgenetic alopecia. What follows is a discussion of these two common types of hair loss seen in women in menopause or post menopausal. Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is the most common type of hair loss seen in women. It results in gradual thinning of the hair on the central and temporal scalp causing a widened central part (figure 1). In other words, women begin to look bald on the top and sides of their scalp. The hair follicle undergoes a miniaturization process under the direction of hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which causes the hairs to thin and shorten, resembling baby fine hairs. As a result, the scalp becomes more visible and the condition can progress overtime (figure 2). See next page...

Treatment for FPHL includes minoxidil, which is thought to increase the number of hairs in the growth phase and thicken the hair fibers. It comes in two strengths, 2 percent and 5 percent which are sold over the counter. Other treatments include hormonal pills such as finasteride and spironolactone, which block some of the hormonal effect of dihidrotestosterone (DHT) on the hair follicle, thus slowing down the thinning process. These medications are only available by prescription from your doctor. Other treatments are used to camouflage the hair loss. These include hair fiber thickeners, which bind to the hair follicles and make them appear thicker. These products are over the counter and come as powders and sprays. Other ways to camouflage the hair loss include wigs, hair extensions, weaves and braids. Telogen effluvium is the medical term for excessive shedding. This usually occurs suddenly rather than gradual and hair is lost in clumps. When the hair is combed, brushed, or washed, many hairs fall out, and the hair becomes noticeably thin. It is thought that some of the hormonal fluctuations in menopause can contribute to this loss. Other causes include stress, medications, nutritional deficiencies, excessive and fast weight loss and thyroid disorders. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and when the cause is identified and addressed, the shedding stops. Minoxidil can also be used for this condition but the key to treating it is finding the trigger and addressing it. In summary, menopause is a period of great hormonal changes in the lives of women and those changes impact

Figure 2: Ludwig classification of female pattern hair loss showing progression of hair loss in different stages Source: http://www.ijdvl.com/viewimage.asp?img=ijdvl_2013

the growth and health of hair. Some of the changes that can be seen include thinning hair, shedding and reduced growth rate. It is important to know that treatment is available and the earlier treatment is initiated, the more successful the outcome. Sources: 1. Mirmirani, P. Managinh hair loss in midlife women. Maturitas 74 (2013)119-122. 2. Oluch-Konluszy, ZS, Nutrition of women with hair loss problem during the period of menopause. Menopause Rev 2016; 15(1):56-61

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Cuyahoga Community College Foundation Honors

Tracy Oliver

for Distinguished Service College advocate and leader receives 2016 Heath Oliver Distinguished Director Award

he Cuyahoga Community College Foundation Board of Directors awarded its 2016 Heath Oliver Distinguished Director Award to Tracy Oliver in recognition of her exemplary service to the College and its students for more than a decade. Oliver, director of media and local affairs for Dominion East Ohio, joined the Foundation Board in 2003 and has dedicated herself to making higher education accessible to Greater Cleveland residents. The Cleveland Heights resident has repeatedly championed requests from the Foundation and provided opportunities for students at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®), particularly through grants awarded from the Dominion Higher Educational Partnership. Oliver also has taken an active role on the Foundation Board, serving in positions such as board secretary, chair of the Committee on Directors and Executive Committee member. She currently is on the Committee on Directors. “Again and again, Tracy Oliver showed her commitment to the Foundation and its mission to make a difference for Tri-C students,” said Rick Chiricosta, chairperson of the Foundation Board. “Her commitment to education and scholarships have improved countless lives over the years.”

The Heath Oliver Distinguished Director Award was established in memory of longtime Foundation Board Director Heath Oliver, president of Bardons & Oliver and a valuable member of the Board from 1988 until his death in 2009. Under his leadership, scholarships for Tri-C students became a fundraising priority; the Foundation successfully launched its first major gifts campaign; and Presidential Scholarship Luncheons raised significant dollars to benefit students. The Cuyahoga Community College Foundation, chartered in 1973, is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization whose mission is to secure funding for scholarships and educational program development and enhancement for Cuyahoga Community College. Source: www.tri-c.edu

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Diversity Champion: Dr. Ruth A. Washington ·

Developing institutional mentoring plans for faculty and individual mentoring plans for diverse faculty that is discipline appropriate

Promoting internal and external collaborations to expand scholarly opportunities

Providing a support system for diverse faculty to express issues and concerns

Dr. Washington is developing and implementing comprehensive strategies focused on graduate education recruitment and retention. Such strategies include: ·

Developing sustainable collaboration and partnerships with Minority Serving Institutions to develop pipelines for graduate students

Identifying grants and other funding opportunities that synergize strengths across the division of diversity, equity and inclusion with colleges, departments and strategic partners in expanding and transforming ideas into competitive proposals to include STEM disciplines

Mentoring, advising and providing guidance for diverse students

Providing assistance with application processes and personal statements

The heart of her work is designed to create genuine and long-term impact. Dr. Washington brings a devoted and strategic expertise to diversity, inclusion and success to Kent State University.

xecutive Director for Faculty and Graduate Student Retention, Inclusion and Success at Kent State University, Dr. Washington leads university wide efforts in diverse faculty and student retention through the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the College of Graduate Studies and the Office of the Provost. She has over 20 years of experience working closely with administrators, faculty, staff and students for the recruitment, retention and success of underserved groups. Dr. Washington is implementing evidence-based promising practices related to increasing and retaining the diversity of faculty. Several best practices include: ·

Addressing issues in micro-inequities and intrinsic biases through training of deans, chairs and faculty to recognize cultural challenges

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COVER STORY - MONIQUE S. WINSTON

by Shelley M. Shockley PWM, Managing Editor

rowing up in Erie, Pennsylvania Monique Winston was a brighteyed, ambitious young lady with dreams of attending college and law school. She followed her dreams, traveling a short distance away from home to attend Duquesne University w h e r e s h e r e c e i ve d h e r Bachelor of Arts in English before continuing her studies at Duquesne University School of Law in Pittsburgh.

MONIQUE WINSTON CEO of OPTIMA Lender Services: A testament to following your calling Photo Credit: Pages 20-22 Photography by Melody

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With her studies complete, Winston tried her hand in a few different areas ranging from a Family Practice law firm specializing in everything from custody to abuse to working alongside of a high profile criminal defense attorney. Winston quickly found that her sensitive nature was not a good match for working in these areas. Ultimately, she landed a job with Lenders Services, a Pittsburgh based national title agency, and the work she would later recognize as her calling. Winston recently sat down with Phenomenal Woman Magazine and shared her journey from Erie to Pittsburgh before settling in Houston for many years. She then heed the call to become an entrepreneur and lead one of only a handful of African-American owned national title agencies. Her path was unique in that it was not strategic and calculated in the same manner that many set out to develop the trajectory of their careers. Instead, it was guided by the vision that God had in place for her life. Winston is clear in stating that her life is ordered, “There is God, my family, and my career in that order.” Even without that declaration when she tells her story, it is clear that a divine path was laid, and all of the necessary pieces have fallen into place.

When Winston landed her first job as a title examiner with Lender Services, she recalls, “it did not look like something I wanted to do, but I said I would give it a try,” that was in 1996. The apprehension she felt stemmed from her days in law school where she was required to take classes that she “hated.” Those classes would all be related to the title industry – Property, Real Estate and Title. She was pleased to find that the work was not nearly as boring and redundant as the classes designed to prepare one for a job/career in real estate titles. This early position she says successfully prepared her for her current position as she was able to learn the title business from the bottom up. “I worked in the closing department and learned everything from doing a closing to becoming the closing manager. I worked in the title department, doing the titles and later managing the department. I worked on process improvement, in claims, in legal… so I became familiar with various aspects of the industry which gave me a broader background. God definitely had a plan that I didn't have; I will tell you that,” she said. Aside from not being fond of the classes that lead to a career in the title industry, Winston notes that this was not a consideration because “Coming from Erie as a young African American, we are not exposed to this. We know corporate or criminal law – we know what we see on television.” The divine plan may have been in place, but one must work “a plan,” and she believes that her success to date is in her preparation and hard work, “no matter where I worked, I worked hard, going the extra mile and often the last one out.” This work ethic has assured her employment and led to continued employment without having to seek change – advancement has found her.

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Stewart's MAST/National agents and worked closely with many of the large national lenders. She was also instrumental in new product development and analysis. Monique was an integral part of the legal department. In addition to underwriting, she focused much of her time in the area of compliance policies and procedures. She became well-known as a teacher and lecturer and developed a curriculum of fundamental title/closing courses and workshops. With each new position, Winston added to her knowledge and experience in the title industry which would lead one to believe that becoming her own “boss” was an inevitable step along the path, but again that was not what she had in mind. She said, “I never believed I had what it took to be an entrepreneur. I am the most non-entrepreneurial person. My husband has that entrepreneur spirit. I am the one who works for corporations.” What this Chief Executive Officer has learned after being here over four years is that much of what she did as part of the corporate world were key to being a successful entrepreneur. Things like, giving one hundred and ten percent, always being resourceful, trying to find the best way to do something, always driven believing failure is not an option. She summarized, “It's not if you have worked as an entrepreneur, the question is do you possess those characteristics that are entrepreneurial.” These characteristics are what led a friend and colleague to reach out to Winston when a group from Cleveland began looking into developing a national title agency in this region. She says she was sitting at her desk in Houston working when the call came, and she immediately said, “No.” A yes would basically mean going home, and she was not at all interested, but with a little prodding she came in and visited with the founders as well as representatives from JumpStart, and as cliché, as it sounds, the rest is history.

It's not if you have worked as an entrepreneur, the question is do you possess those characteristics that are entrepreneurial.

One of her former managers at Lender Services, Donald Blanchard, offered the following review on LinkedIn, “I worked directly with Monique when she served as the Title and Closing Compliance Officer at LSI. She has a deep working knowledge of real estate transactions and conveyancing laws and regulations in all states. Our operations managers relied upon her daily advice to deliver closing and title services in a professional and timely manner. I was always impressed by her ability to remain cool under fire.” Praises of this sort led to Stewart Title Guaranty Company seeking out Winston's services. Again, a position that came with some apprehension! Moving from the east coast to Texas was a big move, but one that she says she and her family embraced and came to absolutely love. As the Senior Vice President/Senior Underwriting Counsel, she provided substantial underwriting assistance to

”

That history has not come without some challenges, but the challenges have not yet proven to be insurmountable, although they often appear that way. She explained, “In this particular space when I came from Houston, it was just me. There was not one employee, not one seat. It was extreme. I said, 'seriously God, maybe we need to talk about this some more.” Initially she said the biggest challenge was taking that first step. Once you took that first step, things seemingly started to fall in place. I always believed and still believe that people are your biggest asset. People will say money, and yes you need money, but you need people. This is not a one-man show. Since that time, Winston says her daily concerns are akin to the experiences of most entrepreneurs. Things like access to capital, recruitment, regulatory factors and work-life balance can be difficult to manage through, however Winston is determined to continue Optima's positive growth projectory. Continued on next page... www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 21

COVER STORY - MONIQUE S. WINSTON Additionally, as a minority-owned business, OPTIMA helps banks, credit unions, and mortgage lenders meet their goals and objectives for supplier-diversity. These goals are part of the 2013 Dodd-Frank Act, and as a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), OPTIMA is poised to ensure: Ÿ Lenders and servicers can quickly and efficiently access and utilize a qualified and vetted minority-owned supplier

Monique at work... OPTIMA Lender Services was established a little over four years ago as a national title agency in Cleveland. The average person becomes familiar and aware of title agencies when they purchase that first parcel, but before that time it is not an industry that you hear a lot about. Winston explained that, “OPTIMA is based in Cleveland, Ohio but provides title and settlement services on a national level. We're actually licensed to issue title insurance in thirty-one states.” The agency she said, “is attractive to regional or national lenders looking for a single source multi-state solution.” She explains that the practice of insuring title is very local because all titles begin at the County level, but if you're doing business in twenty or thirty states having a single solution is convenient, and saves time and manpower for the client.

Phenomenal Facts MONIQUE S. WINSTON

Juris Doctorate, Duquesne University School of Law, 1994

Selected as one of Top 40 Under 40, October Research, 2007

Featured in the fourth edition of Who's Who in Black Houston, 2010

Received Presidential Corporate Award, National Association of Real Estate Brokers, 2012

Featured in the ninth edition of Who's Who in Black Cleveland, 2013

Developed curriculums of fundamental/title closing courses and workshops

A leader in Title Industry

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Ÿ Lenders and servicers have an effective means to document first and second tier diversity spend for title, valuation and closing services Ÿ The availability of supplemental products and services designed to meet the needs of today's lending community Ÿ Entities can efficiently track data on an annual diversity spend along with promoting procurement opportunities for diverse businesses whether they be first or second tier contractors or subcontractors.

In explaining the work they do, she said, “We are largely business to business working hand in hand with the lending institutions and real estate community. The average person doesn't think about a title agency until they sign the papers. They don't care about what happens in the background but the title process is very long. Before you sign the papers and long after you sign – we are working.” It is worthy to note that ultimately the decision and selection of the title and settlement provider does rest with the consumer even though they may allow their lender or real estate professional to render that decision or otherwise guide them. The title agency she said can begin their process anywhere from thirty to sixty days before the consumer ever gets to the point of signing documents. Once the signing has taken place, the work continues with auditing and recordation of documents. What's next for OPTIMA? Winston said, “To grow in business and in relevance. One of the things that OPTIMA has always attempted to do was to become an integral part of the community. We strive to create jobs and economic opportunities that stimulate the community. We also work to educate the community." These goals are also important to Winston in her private life. She said again that it all starts and ends with God, and she looks to her down time to be with her family as well as serve the community. Much of her community involvement is through the boards upon which she serves which include, The Cleveland Realtist Association (a division of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers), The Urban League of Greater Cleveland and New Village Corporation(a division of Cleveland Neighborhood Progress). Monique is also a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and The Word Church where she and her family worship.

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4 Essential Strategies for Growing Your Business Since opening its first store in 1986, the foundation of Mattress Firm's success has been built on a commitment to its core values: service, integrity and passion. Now, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, a three-decade journey has seen it grow from a single Houston store to 3,500 stores in 48 states. The following strategies can help grow the success of your business, too. Be deeply connected and highly visible. Sophisticated product knowledge, meticulous financial measurements and high-level strategic planning are essential skills for every business leader. However, successful managers put just as much emphasis on getting to know people as they do learning markets and numbers. Building relationships with your customers, your community and your industry is essential to understanding how to serve their needs. Strong personal connections – between team members and management; the company and the community; and retailers and business partners – are the keys to the success of any business. Be bold. A bold vision to revolutionize the sleep industry became a reality when the doors to the first Mattress Firm store opened July 4, 1986 in Houston. The founders, Steve Fendrich, Harry Roberts and Paul Stork, didn't know at the time that a single store would grow into a publicly traded company with 10,000 employees nationwide, but they believed in their vision and their values. Plans written down on paper are great – they are used all the time to evaluate new markets and consider future opportunities, for example – but real leadership requires more than just a strategic plan; it takes boldness and the courage to act decisively on not only data-driven insights, but the knowledge that you've gained from your relationships in your industry and community.

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Be passionate. It is essential for leaders to be passionate about their business for two reasons. First, customers respond best to someone who shows that they genuinely care about solving the problem that their product is intended to solve. Second, your passion will carry you through the inevitable setbacks along your way to success. Ask how your company helps your customers, then use that answer as inspiration when times get tough. Invite others to share in your success. One of the most important things a leader can do is develop the next generation of leaders to ensure the ongoing success of the organization. This requires confidence on your part, as you cannot feel threatened by new ideas and new talent that are the natural result of cultivating a successful team. The emphasis on inclusivity and collaboration will trickle down through a company's culture, creating an environment where all team members feel empowered to share both ideas and concerns in the spirit of constant improvement. Companies such as Mattress Firm foster a positive sense of discontent, feeling pride for far they've come, but always looking for ways to improve the customer experience. If you trust your team members, they will trust you. If you build a culture of clarity, accountability and respect, you will become an employer of choice that attracts, retains and develops top talent. Mattress Firm's founders dreamed big in 1986. They opened a store, but more importantly, they had a vision to improve lives through a better night's sleep. Every day since then, passion, culture and community, combined with the willingness to do the hard work necessary to get the job done, has made that dream come to fruition. Learn more at MattressFirm.com.

Navigating Volatile Markets for a Secure Retirement Persistent and significant stock market swings, combined with shifting workplace structures and an outdated retirement benefit system, are profoundly impacting Americans' ability to save and prepare for a secure retirement. In fact, a quarter of Americans age 50 and over exhausted all of their savings during the 2008 recession, according to a recent AARP Public Policy Institute report. And, at the same time, almost one-third of older Americans said their home declined in value, meaning they could no longer count on rising home values to help fund their retirement. In order to protect your nest egg against market volatility, experts recommend ensuring you have a balanced financial portfolio that includes conservative, low-risk products that are less impacted by stock market volatility. “The single most important step Americans can take to mitigate risk is to diversify their portfolios,” said Jim Poolman, Executive Director of the Indexed Annuity Leadership Council. “Sitting with a financial planner and using a retirement calculator can help you determine where you are, where you want to be and what savings vehicles can help you get there.” While there are no surefire ways to avoid the effects of stock market instability, there are some things you can do to reduce the likelihood that you will suffer the consequences in the future, and things you can do during a market downturn.

terrific start, it's often not enough. To build a solid retirement plan, don't underestimate the importance of a balanced financial portfolio. Your level of risk should reflect your age and your retirement goals. For example, younger savers have more time to recover from risk than those nearing retirement. One option to provide balance to your retirement portfolio is adding a Fixed Indexed Annuity, which protects your principal and can provide a guaranteed stream of income in retirement, regardless of market ups and downs.

Create a retirement plan based on actual needs. A study by the Employee Benefit Research Institute found 39 percent of people guess how much they will need to save without actually calculating their retirement needs. Using calculators can help determine your specific retirement income needs so that you can plan accordingly. Calculating just your living costs isn't enough – also take into account rising healthcare costs, inflation and longer lifespans.

Start saving now. Many people are focused on paying down student loans and other debt, or concentrating on more immediate goals like buying a house and children's college funds. However, the cost of putting off retirement savings adds up. Every six years you wait to start saving, the monthly amount you need to save to reach the same retirement income doubles.

Monitor and adjust your savings strategy. Volatility in the stock market can affect your savings, as do your current expenses and future needs. Additionally, career changes and family situations can change how you should be saving. Leading up to retirement, your last few years of savings will be different than when you were first starting out in your career. A good rule of thumb is to spend five minutes every five years revisiting your retirement plan to make sure your savings reflect your needs and adjust for market conditions.

Avoid putting all of your assets into one type of account. While contributing to an employer's 401(k) is a

Learn more about options for managing your retirement account at FIAinsights.org. www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 25

5 Tricks for a Chore-Free Weekend (Family Features) When thinking about errands, check-lists and even downtime, every busy person wishes there were more hours in the day. When tight on time, chores have a way of piling up and spilling into free time. With the right routine, however, day-to-day tasks can be tackled throughout the week, paving the way to a chore-free weekend, which means more time for the fun stuff.

opposed to starting off cold and then turning warm. The hot water not only does a better job of cleaning your dishes, but it is also critical in killing any germs living on glassware and flatware. ·

Wednesday: Multi-purpose tools are key when looking to save time. The Scotch-Brite Scrubbing Dish Cloth, for example, features everything you love about your dish cloth – absorbency and versatility – plus scrubbing dots on one side that power through stuck-on messes on cookware, glassware and counters without scratching. When you're done, the cloth rinses clean and dries quickly, ready for any kitchen mishaps during your weekend festivities.

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Thursday: Ease into the weekend by dusting surfaces in your home, including televisions, shelving, dressers and nightstands. A little known trick for surfaces such as rugs or lampshades that dust likes to cling to? Use a lint roller with strong adhesive.

Friday: Round out the week with a focus on floors by sweeping, vacuuming and mopping the most used rooms. If you find a new stain on the carpet, blot it up with club soda and a heavy-duty scrub sponge. If it remains, add a drop of dish soap and blot it back into the stain, but don't rub. Rinse with cool water and continue to blot as the sponge absorbs the solution while not pilling or ruining the fabric. After a few minutes, the carpet should be dry and the stain should be gone.

“I am a firm believer that the weekend is meant for relaxation,” said Becky Rapinchuk, cleaning expert from Clean Mama and author of “The Organically Clean Home.” “My secret to a chore-free weekend? Address items on your to-do list day by day, rather than tackling the entire house at once.” Along with the right tools, Rapinchuk recommends carving out 30 minutes each weekday for an easy five-day cleaning routine made up of the following simple tips and tricks: ·

Monday: Tackle the most hated space to clean – the bathroom – on Monday so you're not dreading the chore all week long. To start, grab a dish wand and load it up with your favorite tile cleaner to scrub the shower grout. Once you're done, clear the countertop, wipe down the sink, and give the toilet a deep cleaning. Spritz a light scent on towels or the shower curtain to leave the space smelling fresh on your way out. Tuesday: Dishes not coming out clean from the dishwasher? Run the water in your kitchen sink until it's hot and then start the dishwasher. This will pump hot water throughout the washer's cycle, as

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KEEP CLUTTER AT BAY Useful items to keep your home elegantly organized

Bathe in Luxurious Elegance Bring a sophisticated look to your bath with organizers that combine stunning design with superior function. Shower accessories from the LINEA collection – single, double and triple dispensers, as well as a shower basket and squeegee – are crafted with crystal-like elements and completed with rustproof metal features. A beautiful storage solution inspired by contemporary perfume bottles, LINEA is the definition of modern luxury.

FAMILY FEATURE

Take Pride in Your Pantry Add style in the pantry with shelving that is not only functional but looks good, too, with ClosetMaid Close Mesh wire shelving. Available in white, nickel and satin chrome finishes, the deck wires are spaced 5/8 inches apart instead of the standard 1 inch, to keep small items from tipping. Maximize storage space by using the shelving with the ShelfTrack adjustable bracket system, which makes it easy to make room for pantry items of various sizes.

s summer gives way to a busy fall and schedules get a bit more hectic, things have a way of getting disheveled. You can get your home reorganized and looking great with just a little bit of TLC and some helpful storage solutions. From those stray groceries that haven't found a home in the pantry to shampoo bottles that linger on the bathtub ledge, these options can help you get reorganized and maximize your storage space.

Organize with Aesthetics in Mind Maximize space, storage and organization with a pocket door system. The Demi Tall Pantry Cabinet from Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. is ideal for kitchens of all sizes. Pull out units, sliding shelves and motion sensor lighting make organizing and locating items easy, while adding a pleasing aesthetic to the room.

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OUTDOOR

Dining

Apple Tortellini Salad Servings: 6 to 8 Dressing: 3 tablespoons Tree Top Frozen Concentrate Apple Juice, thawed 3 tablespoons light corn syrup 2 teaspoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar 2 teaspoons garlic salt Ground pepper to taste Salad: 9 ounces cheese-filled tortellini 2 cups sliced apples (approximately 2 medium apples) 2 cups shredded salad greens 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery 1/2 cup sliced scallions 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional) To prepare dressing, combine apple juice concentrate, corn syrup, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic salt and pepper. Cover dressing and refrigerate. To prepare salad, cook tortellini, drain and cool by rinsing pasta under cold water. Shake gently to drain thoroughly. In a large bowl, combine tortellini, apples, salad greens, strawberries, celery and scallions. Toss salad gently with chilled dressing. Serve chilled. If desired, sprinkle with pine nuts.

Designing a Backyard Party Is Easy Set the scene with the right décor and a little bit of creativity — and let nature take care of the rest. —Find vintage plates and serving pieces at a local flea market. —Serve beverages in Mason jars, which can also be used as flower vases. —Cover a rustic table with gingham tablecloth. —Fill large wicker baskets with apples to use as centerpieces. —If hosting in the evening, line the table with tea lights and lanterns.

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Strawberry Banana Smoothie Ice Pops 1 1 1 1 6 1

cup Tree Top Apple Juice pint strawberries, hulled, sliced and frozen banana, sliced and frozen apple, peeled, cored, sliced and frozen ounces vanilla yogurt teaspoon vanilla

Put all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Pour into ice pop forms or paper cups. Place ice pop sticks in center and freeze, inverted, for 3 hours or until solid. Keep frozen until ready to serve.

Baked Apple Pie Layer Bars Servings: 16 2 1/2 1 1 1 1

cups sifted flour tablespoon sugar teaspoon salt cup shortening egg Milk cup crushed corn flakes cup Tree Top or Seneca Apple Sauce cups sliced, peeled apples cup sugar teaspoon cinnamon

2/3 1/2 5 1/4 1 Glaze: 1 cup confectioners' sugar 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Sift together flour, sugar and salt. Cut shortening in with pastry blender or two knives. Put egg yolk into measuring cup and add milk to make 2/3 cup. Add to shortening mixture. Mix just enough until dough shapes into a ball. Roll out half the dough into 15 x 11-inch rectangle. Transfer to baking sheet. Cover with corn flakes. Mix apple sauce together with apple slices, and add mixture on top of corn flakes. Mix sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle over apple mixture. Roll out other half of dough for top crust. Place over apples. Pinch edges together. Beat egg white until stiff and spread on top crust. Bake in hot 400Â°F oven for 40 minutes. Cut into 16 squares. Combine confectioners' sugar and lemon juice to make glaze. While hot, drizzle glaze over top.

Spiced Pork and Apple Burger with Maple Dijon Servings: 6 3 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard 2 pounds ground pork 1/2 cup Tree Top Natural Apple Sauce 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon dry mustard 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 6 hamburger buns Baby Spinach leaves Stir maple syrup and mustard together in a small bowl. Set aside. Spray a large non-stick grill pan or griddle with cooking spray and place over medium to medium high heat. Mix pork, apple sauce, salt, chili powder, dry mustard, pepper and cinnamon together in a large mixing bowl. Form mixture into 6 patties. Place patties in pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, turn and cook additional 4 to 5 minutes or until done. To serve, spread bun bottoms with maple mustard mixture. Top each with a patty, spinach leaf and bun top. If desired, toast buns and top with cheddar cheese, grilled onions, pickles, tomatoes or other favorite toppings. Serve with crispy sweet potato fries and steamed beans for an easy but special meal. www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me â&#x2013;&#x2019; 29

Fuel Your Day the Healthy Way Ancient Grain Salad with Watermelon Servings: 6 3 4 3 2 3 1/2 1/3 1/3 1 2

tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil tablespoons maple syrup tablespoons lemon juice teaspoons lemon zest salt, to taste cups warm, cooked kamut grain (about 1 1/2 cups dry) cup coarsely chopped pecans cup diced green onions, plus 1 tablespoon cup thin-sliced celery cup corn cups chopped watermelon

In small bowl, blend oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest and salt. Add kamut and pecans. Stir thoroughly and let sit until cooled. Between balancing work with family and friends, squeezing in a healthy meal can be hard, and finding time for a workout can be even harder. A busy lifestyle demands quick, portable and convenient foods that let you refuel your body with better health in mind. When time is tight, it may be tempting to reach for prepackaged snacks or fast food, but you can make your own grab-and-go snack packs and meals at home in less time than it takes to get through the drive-thru lane. A cool and refreshing superfood smoothie can give you a much-needed boost when your energy is dragging. Another smart snacking tip: fill sandwich bags with servings of fresh fruits and veggies that you can carry in your purse or gym bag to nibble on when hunger strikes. Options such as watermelon cubes or sticks are a great choice because they are high in fiber and water to help fill you up with nutrients instead of calories.

Also be mindful of how you answer sweet tooth cravings. A naturally sweet treat such as a slice of watermelon is a satisfying alternative to cookies or candy. In fact, working sweet flavors into your regular meals is a way to keep cravings at bay. This salad combines an ancient grain high in protein and nutrients with the sweet crunch of fresh watermelon for a rich taste and texture. Find more tips and recipes to fuel your day at watermalon.org 28 â&#x2013;&#x2019; JULY-AUGUST 2016

In tall glass bowl, assemble salad by placing one-third of the kamut mixture on bottom, topped by half each of the onions and celery, corn and watermelon. Repeat. Add remaining kamut on top and sprinkle with remaining diced green onion. Present as layered salad and toss just before serving.

Rosy Red Superfood Smoothie Servings: 3 (1 cup each) 2 1 1 2 2 2

cups cubed watermelon cup fresh or frozen raspberries cup raspberry kefir tablespoons orange juice concentrate tablespoons hemp seeds tablespoons agave syrup ice (optional)

Almond Cherry Recovery Smoothie Recipe courtesy of Natalie Coughlin Servings: 1 1 1 1/2 1 1

cup unsweetened almond milk tablespoon chia seeds frozen banana cup frozen dark cherries tablespoon almond butter

In blender, combine almond milk, chia seeds, banana, cherries and almond butter, and mix until smooth.

5 Tips for Fueling Like a Champion Whether your goals are big or small, the path to success begins with the first step. When it comes to fitness and nutrition, champion athletes can attest that small, everyday lifestyle changes can make a big impact. Get inspired to tackle your ambitions with these tips from 20-time World Championship medalist and 12-time Olympic medalist Natalie Coughlin, who knows first-hand the roles that hard work, dedication and a nutritious diet play in achieving the extraordinary. To motivate others who are looking to achieve greatness in their own lives, Coughlin joins top U.S. rugby players Zack Test, Carlin Isles and nationally known sports nutritionist Cynthia Sass – through a partnership with the Almond Board of California – to provide their top tips and life hacks to help reach your fitness goals. 1. Be prepared: When you're on the road, or just after a workout, you may find the need to refuel and keep your energy level high until the next meal. Carrying quick snacks can help keep hunger at bay, Coughlin said. Some simple ideas for portable snacks include: herbal teas, fruits, vegetables, dark chocolate and a handful of almonds. 2.

Drink more water: Not only is water essential for moving oxygen and nutrients throughout your body, it also serves many other vital purposes, including converting food into usable fuel and regulating your body temperature. Avoid empty calories from

beverages such as energy drinks or juices with added sugar. Your personal needs may vary slightly, but Sass recommends aiming for at least two cups of fluids two hours before exercise, one to two cups 15 minutes before exercise and one-half cup to one cup every 15 minutes during exercise. 3. Don't skip breakfast: Breakfast kick-starts the day and helps you to stay alert and energized. Make sure you always eat a nutritious breakfast, even if it means preparing it the night before. Before training each morning, Isles has a hard-boiled egg, steel-cut oatmeal topped with sliced almonds along with mixed fruit. He recommends making each meal count and emphasizes the importance of giving your body the proper nutrients to reach your goals. 4. Recover properly: Strength is gained through proper nutrition and allowing the body to heal from the wear and tear of workouts, Sass said. That's why post-exercise is a prime time for delivering the right raw materials with smart recovery meals that deliver the protein and energy your body needs to refuel. 5. Fuel like a champion: For peak performance from morning until night, proper nutrition is a must. Utilizing quick, energizing recipes, such as Coughlin's Almond Cherry Recovery Smoothie, can help you crush your goals and conquer the day. For more tips and recipes to help you reach your goals, visit Almonds.com. www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 29

MOVIE REVIEWS

The Ghostbusters Abby (Melissa McCarthy), Holtzmann (Kate McKinnon), Erin (Kristen Wiig) and Patty (Leslie Jones) inside the Mercado Hotel Lobby in Columbia Pictures' GHOSTBUSTERS. PHOTO BY: Hopper Stone

Ghostbusters Takes Girl Power to New Heights R. Lee Gamble Film Diva www.filmdiva3.com

irl Power rules in the 30-year celebratory reboot of the classic Ghostbusters. All the critics who attacked the film before it was even finished can suck it! Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones are a hilarious comedy team. Even Chris Hemsworth brings the fun in what is a great way to honor what will always be a classic film. There is a natural chemistry between these women that light up the screen. Melissa McCarthy who portrays Abby Yates and Kristen Wiig who portrays Erin Gilbert are seasoned vets at making us laugh on the big screen. Since Bridesmaids, these ladies know how to make an ensemble cast of very funny women work. McCarthy brings the toughness that you love and Wiig throws in the quirkiness that we adore her for! What this film does the best is its introduction of both McKinnon and Jones. If you are not familiar with their work on Saturday Night Live, watching them in Ghostbusters 32 â&#x2013;&#x2019; JULY-AUGUST 2016

will make you want to go back and see how these talented women started. McKinnon's portrayal of the wacky inventor Jillian Holtzman really is the center of this film. It is her inventions and the way she presents them that will leave you in stitches. McKinnon is amazing and I found that I was waiting for the next amazing line she would deliver or fabulous look she may give a cast mate. McKinnon's performance is a touching and beautiful tribute to the late great Harold Ramis' portrayal of Dr. Egon Spengler. Now as an African-American woman, I just want to say that Jones is our voice and I love it. She says exactly what I know most black women would say in these wild and wacky situations she is put into. For all those who think she was just the "black sidekick" nothing could be further from the truth. Her character Patty Tolan is a history buff and she knows everything there is to know about New York. She is hilarious! Special effects, cameo appearances and Chris Hemsworth make this a movie soooo worth seeing. Get up, get out and support it. The Ghostbusters are back and the ladies of comedy are bringing it!!! Love it!!

Hollywood Needs to Get a Clue With The Legend of

Tarzan

R. Lee Gamble Film Diva www.filmdiva3.com

merican Civil War soldier, politician, journalist and lawyer George Washington Williams was the first person to draw attention to the atrocities being suffered by the people of The Congo at the hands of King Leopold's men. Because of his efforts, the horrors the people of The Congo suffered under the Belgian King was made plain for all to see. This story is interesting and fascinating enough in its own right, but leave it to Hollywood to take what is true and throw in their own spin. Thanks to Hollywood screenwriters, the achievements accomplished by this brilliant African American man could not have happened without the help of none other than Tarzan. Now I give Director David Yates and his writers credit for trying not to regurgitate the "white man conquers the jungle" portrayals of the Tarzan of old. That absolutely would not play out now. However, to fictionalize a true story just for the sake of trying to bring back Tarzan is insulting to the genuine work George Washington Williams actually did. I would be lying if I said the film is not visually stunning. The animal scenes are, quite frankly, more interesting than the actual story. Alexander Skarsgard is wonderful in the scenes with the animals even if they are CGI images. After that there really is not much depth to his character. If you can just be entertained and not get caught up in the racial element of this you will enjoy it. However, with everything going on in this country, racially right now, I question what Hollywood was thinking bringing back one of the most racially charged characters ever created.

ALEXANDER SKARSGĂ&#x2026;RD as Tarzan in Warner Bros. Pictures' and Village Roadshow Pictures' action adventure "THE LEGEND OF TARZAN," distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures. Photo by: JONATHAN OLLEY

I also question how many times Christoph Waltz will play a racist. I would love to see him in something else. There is not a stretch there at all. I am begging Hollywood to please get a clue. Come up with something new and creative and stop recycling stories that need to stay in the past. It's time to take Tarzan out of the jungle for good.

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MOVIE REVIEWS

(L-r) GABRIEL BATEMAN as Martin and TERESA PALMER as Rebecca in New Line Cinema's horror film "LIGHTS OUT," a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo: Ron Batzdorff

Lights Out is Scary Fun R. Lee Gamble Film Diva www.filmdiva3.com

f you already have a fear of the dark, Lights Out will not make it any better. From producer James Wan (The Conjuring) comes a tale of an unknown terror that lurks in the dark. When Rebecca (Teresa Palmer) left home, she thought she left her childhood fears behind. Growing up, she was never really sure of what wasn't real when the lights went out...and now her little brother, Martin (Gabriel Bateman), is experiencing the same unexplained and terrifying events that had once tested her sanity and threatened her safety. A frightening entity with a mysterious attachment to their mother, Sophie (Maria Bello), has reemerged. But this time, as Rebecca gets closer to unlocking the truth, there is no denying that all their lives are in danger - once the lights go out. 34 â&#x2013;&#x2019; JULY-AUGUST 2016

This movie does not waste any time jumping right into terrorizing film goers. What it lacks in story line, Lights Out makes up in creep factor. Visually this movie really works because you can only see this entity when the lights are off. Seeing this creature with the longest claws I have ever seen, has the same effect as when we first saw Freddie and his finger knives in the original Nightmare on Elm Street. This film is a throwback to the old school horror movies which is so enjoyable. There is nothing like a good scare and Lights Out delivers. I think what I enjoyed the most is that the movie has light moments that are terrifying and funny at the same time. When the entity attacks Rebecca's boyfriend (Alexander DiPersia) in the dark shadows of the driveway, is one of the funniest scenes in the movie. Let's just say thank God for his car key fob. Lights Out is a great scare. Go see it; just prepare to sleep with the lights on that night.

Kid-friendly tips to encourage more outside play In today's digital world, creating memories with loved ones and experiencing the joys of Mother Nature are some of the best reasons to turn off the TV, put down the tablet and get outdoors. From picnics to wild adventures to simple backyard games, there are dozens of ways to help kids explore all the exciting ways to live life outside. A generation ago, 75 percent of American children played outside daily, but according to the National Recreation and Park Association, only 25 percent do the same these days. Not only are today's youth missing out on a pastime treasured for generations, repeated studies have shown that children who play outside are more physically active, more creative in their play, less aggressive and show better concentration. Edible entertainment. Dining al fresco is one of the greatest ways to enjoy the outdoors. Invite family, friends or neighbors over for a barbecue, and be sure to save room for dessert with the gooey goodness of marshmallows roasted over a fire pit (add graham crackers and chocolate for a timeless campfire favorite in your own backyard). Delight after dusk. Streetlights were once the signal that it's time to head indoors, but once kids are safely home, take them out back to explore the outdoors at night. Stargaze under the open night sky, watch for nighttime critters such as lightning bugs or pitch a tent for a backyard campout. Ask the neighbors to join you, and organize a game of flashlight tag or enjoy a movie under the stars. Home-grown experience. Even many adults don't fully understand where food comes from. Help foster a greater understanding by encouraging kids to plant a mini garden they can tend themselves until the produce is ready to harvest. Inspire the project with a trip to the local farmer's market, where together you can wander outdoors while selecting fresh produce to prepare for dinner. Physical fun. If you don't already have them, take kids along on a quick shopping trip to gather the items they need for more physical activity outside. Bikes, helmets, bats, balls – the possibilities go on and on. Artistic expression. Turning the imagination loose outdoors can result in magical artistic creations. Pull out a tub of oversized chalk and watch a masterpiece emerge on the sidewalk, or let the sun's rays melt old crayons into funky new colors and shapes. And, for a fun arts and crafts project, try making homemade bird feeders. Imaginative play. Away from all the digital distractions, kids' minds are free to wander. Let them set their imaginations free by assembling their own backyard games. Make water toys with sponges, create a “river” out of rocks or dirt where homemade boats can sail or plan a scavenger hunt to explore every corner of the yard. Family Features www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 35

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