EDITOR IN CHIEF
Thomas Corbin EDITOR Latoya Corbin
JOURNALISTS Yvette Seabrone Latoya Corbin PHOTOGRAPHERS
Thomas Corbin
Email thomascorbin@outlook.com
Contact P : (757) 348-6636
TK’s FOOD S FOR THE
SOUL
Suprisingly, the newly based Norfolk, VA restaurant, TK’s Food For the Soul, isn’t particularly what is normally considered soul-food cuisine. Co-owner, Atira, describes their food as comfort food for your soul. Tastefully named! The menu includes an array of creatively crafted dishes; such as The Famous Nukie Nuclear Burger. This spicy burger was named using Porscha’s (chef/ co-owner) nickname for her wife, Atira. This burger consists of pepper Jack cheese, jalapeno, and spicy mayo. If your palate is in the taste for something that definitely sounds delicious-- you can try TK’s famous Aquaman. This is a philly steak with shrimp accompanied with Chef Porscha’s celebrated House Sauce. The multitude of love shown for TK’s House Sauce influenced the couple to make it available for purchase. Diners put TK’s House Sauce on their fries, shrimp, or whatever they desire. TK’s Food For the Soul serves salads, a selection of burgers, wings (with a plathora of choice sauces), Philly Cheesesteak Fries, and also handmade crabcakes. The Crabcake, Fish, and Shrimp Platter photo alone went viral on day one! Both of the owners have a love for food. This shared passion is actually what brought the couple together. The two met at Norfolk, Virginia’s, Culinary Institute of Virginia. Ever since then, in 2016, to own their own establishment was their dream. After graduating Atira opened up her business, Keyrani’s. Sharing that same goal oreinted soul, Porscha opened up her personal chef business, Tantrka. Within due time the soulmates married. Their visions united and their businesses combined-- creating TK’s Food for the Soul. Their union has been a blessing to so many with their, “Give Forward - All About the Community Sundays.” The restaurant owners have committed to giving forward to our homeless. As you
may realize by now, the food isn’t the only thing that feeds the soul at TK’s. the restaurant is a place that is known to feel like home; where genuine customer service is a given, and the customers are family. You may even get a hug! March 16, 2019 TK’s Food for the Soul hosted a soft opening. The completed vision came into a reality, for us all to share the variety of creatively mastered flavors, in the form of a grand opening party that was held on April 20, 2019. TK’s Food For the Soul is located at 871 North Military Highway (in the proximity of Braid Expert / Richway Beauty / Broadway night club). Tuesday through Friday daily lunch specials are only $5! Plan to come in and taste for yourself! There’s Taco Tuesday, Wing Wednesday, Thursday Trio, and Fish Firday. TK’s also has the TK’s House Tea (Porscha’s House Tea). This tea is inspired by the uniquely flavored Chinese restaurant teas that many of us love! Atira explains Porscha’s ability to taste anything and replicating it, all while
adding her unique spin on it, as a super power. If you’re planning an event, and you are wondering can you have TK’s famous menu items to serve your guests-- the answer is... yes! TK’s Events and More can cater your event. Also, if you need a venue to hold up to 60 guest, then TK’s Events and More venue is currently under construction and will very soon be just a call away! Make sure to add TK’s online media sites to keep up with all of TK’s events and specials. Definitely also keep in mind that TK’s is connected with all the delivery platforms: DoorDash / Grubhub / Postmates / Uber Eats. TK’s Food For the Soul located at: 871 N. Military Hwy Norfolk VA 23502 Mon-Thur 11am to 7pm & Fri-Sat 10am-8pm Restaurant Ph#: 757-226-8097 Catering Ph#: 757-383-0644
FB: TKs Food For The Soul Instagram: TKsFoodForTeSoul-
The decision to return to school is not made lightly. While earning a degree can be highly rewarding in the form of better career opportunities and higher pay, the path to get there can be filled with challenges, especially if you’re trying to fit school and studies in with your work and family responsibilities. An education unlocks so many doors. It’s worth taking the time to make sure you’re opening the door that’s right for you. Before you register for that first class, it’s important to consider and plan for how you’re going to get it all done, from working out an arrangement with your workplace to accommodating your school schedule and enlisting help from family members to get chores done. Here are top questions every potential student should ask themselves before they begin the journey. What are my career goals? When you’re looking at a specific college program, it’s good to take a step back and examine your goals and motivations and how going back to school fits in. If you’re hoping the degree or certification will lead to a promotion or pay increase so you can better support your family, it’s important to know how that will happen. To get a gauge on the local market, search for job openings in your chosen field. If you have time,
sit down for informational interviews with people in the field to give you a clearer picture of how a degree or certification can help you. Finally, some institutions provide support and information to prospective students. Make an appointment with the career center so you can better understand how a certain degree will advance your career or help you meet your goals. How will I manage the costs of education? High tuition costs and student loans can be a source of worry for many students. Before you commit to a school, be sure to take some time to uncover resources that will make your education more affordable. Start by talking to the financial aid office. Some institutions offer scholarships and financing options, as well as programs that incentivize students to do well. For instance, Strayer University automatically enrolls bachelor’s students in its Graduation Fund, which allows students to earn one no-cost course for every three classes successfully completed. These classes can be redeemed in the student’s final year of their bachelor’s degree program. As long as students stay continuously enrolled, these credits have the potential to reduce the cost of a bachelor’s degree by up to 25 percent. Other cost-reducing avenues at other schools include research scholarships and grants, which may be avai-
3 key questions adult learners shou
lable to people in certain fields. Also, don’t forget to talk to your employer. Many workplaces offer tuition assistance programs to their employees. Does the program offer flexibility for my busy schedule? Earning a degree or certification is a major commitment. For some students, work and family responsibilities can elbow their way into a busy school schedule. “It helps to know the availability and quality of flexible options offered by your school. These offerings can help make your educational experience more manageable and enjoyable,” said Brian Jones, president of Strayer University. There are programs structured so students can learn at their own pace. FlexPath - available at Capella University - gives students the flexibility to complete coursework at a speed that is comfortable for them. Students are evaluated by how well they demonstrate competency in a course, so whether it takes two weeks or 12, they’re free to move on to their next course at their own pace.
uld ask before returning to school
Home flipping experts reveal the story of their first renovation Like a first kiss, first car or first day of school, entrepreneurs and home renovation experts Ashley and Andy Williams will never forget completing their first home renovation project. “That day began as all our days do - with organized chaos,” Ashley said. “We got our two kids ready for school amid a mad dash of ensuring book bags were packed, homework was done and items for after-school activities were all in their proper places. We also made sure that our own go-bag for the day was filled with almonds, water and fruit in case a hot property hit the market. As busy parents and entrepreneurs, we need the energy that almonds provide so we can stay on our A-game from school drop-offs, house hunting and everything in between.” They took the scenic route around town looking for a project to take on. That’s when they saw it: a home that had been sitting on the market for 236 days, looked like a time capsule from 1976 (complete with wallpaper and original kitchen appliances) - but had incredible potential to be transformed into a place that any family would want to call home. Just like the feeling of falling in love, they said they knew it was the right project for them. They immediately called the listing agent to arrange a meeting with the sellers and sketched out their proposed vision. The sellers felt their passion for the property, and the deal was sealed.
Then, the work began. It turned out that the 1970s charm they loved about the house was the same thing that threw them curveballs at every turn. From the outdated plumbing and HVAC systems to the decades-old wiring to the foundation and flooring - the house needed a huge overhaul to conform with modern building codes. Those first few weeks of the renovation were long and tiring, but productive. Once the bones of the house were up to code, they turned to the interior. From choosing family-friendly, durable kitchen appliances to finding the perfect color laminate that would run from room to room, they poured their hearts into this renovation - just as they had with their own home years prior. Then finally, after five months of hard work, it was time to put what had become their second home on the market. “We brought our kiddos over to put the finishing touches on the staging and by the end of the week, we sold the home to a young family who appreciated the charm and design of the home as much as we did,” Ashley said. Passion. Hard work. Positivity. Family. That’s what “owning their everyday” means to the Williams family. How will you turn your everydays into memorable moments?
POWERHOUSE BOXING Journalist: M. Yvette Seabrone
Owner: Antwain “Twain” Britt Location: 4718 Princess Anne Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23464 Gym Ph#: 246-244-3200
The Powerhouse Boxing and Kickboxing gym is not only a gym that builds professional fighters. This facility brings to the Tidewater area a few other amenities that you can’t always find at your local boxing gym. Owner and personal trainer, Antwain “Twain” Britt (along with his family) has created a place of fitness for all. Powerhouse houses all accredited trainers. One trainer inparticularly that has reigned as a renowned Lightweight Champion and Super Welterweight Champion -- Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker. There’s also trainer Brian Collette, an advance kick boxer. Powerhouse Boxing accommodates to those that wish to add a higher level of fitness to their lifestyle. The gym’s programs cater not only to the individual boxer, but there are classes setup to also cater to women and children as well. This could be a new and healthy way to have family night! Coach Twain explained how the gym was much more than a fantastic boxing facility. Powerhouse offers a place for people, especially women, with weight loss goals. One of the major classes is the Cardio Bag class. There’s also the 30 minute Box and Burn. This exciting and vigorous workout is geared to burning all those unwanted calories. A innovative way to get that body right for the summer! If you wish to have more of a one-on-one, Coach Twain offers personal training sessions as well. Keep in mind I did say that Powerhouse can be a
place for the entire family; that includes the kids! The children’s training program teaches boxing techniques, strengthens confidence, and positively focuses on team building. Annually they also carry a summer camp. The children (and parents) look to their gym family not just as trainers or coaches, but as mentors --- as family. Powerhouse offers even more perks for their younger members with the area called, “The Kids’ Room.” This area is a place for studying afterschool and before training, or for kids to gather after training sessions if they are waiting for their parent’s session to end. This is a significant benefit for the families that become members. Believe it or not there are even more bonuses with your membership to Powerhouse Gym. Personal trainers will even travel. There soon will be meal planning. There’s also the opportunity to upgrade your membership to include a joint membership with Flex Gym; which is for weight lifting and body building. If you’re already a Flex Gym member you can upgrade that membership for a small additional fee to include your Powerhouse Boxing membership. Take the time to visit Powerhouse Boxing and Kickboxing gym located at 4718 Princess Anne Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23464 or call 276-244-3200. Calling all men, ladies, and children... Make Powerhouse your family gym and fitness center!
INDIE IN A M AJ
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he VA area has always supported G-Man Entertainment’s artists, such as rapper Synse, as well as, female hip hop artist Miscelanyus, since the early stages of the entertainment company. Having much respect for those vetereans in the industry, I was definitely happy for the opportunity
to speak with the founder and one of the owners, Mr. George “G-Man” Waters; and we were also interested in what’s new with the G-Man team for 2019. G-Man has 17 years of experience being in this industry, with 15 of those years operating G-Man Entertainment. The company’s recent rebranding has brought on powerful changes, adjustments, and growth. The newly branded G-Man Entertainment is united by separate divisions; G-Man
Management division with newly signed artists. G-Man also owns Black Light recording studio, which is the creation spot for the G-Man artists. G-Man Entertainment has an 17 year-old rap artist, Big Ligiee. They have also signed 20 year old RnB songstress, Lijah J. The label’s lineup includes another rap artist, Intalek. As mentioned previously, the company has separate divisions, which creates a platform for artist like rapper Tok Lansky, that is with G-Man Management, LLC. The company also has an in-house Creative Director, Damon Upshaw, that is for all the divisions.
JOR WAY
Management, LLC., G-Man Entertainment Music Group the label, and also the distribution division. The company provides two in-house producers; Rude Beatz and T-Rifik. G-Man Entertainments’ co-owner is Kenny Minnard, and as for management, that division is ran by Tony Willis & Brian “B-Hood” Hudson. G-Man Entertainment as a whole has positively revamped and restructured the company’s logo
G-Man Entertainment, based in the Tidewater area of Virginia, has been invited to the 2019 BET Awards. There is also preparations for upcoming shows and live concerts (to be announced). Though there has been exciting changes through the rebranding of G-Man Entertainment, some great things remain like the UBL event! UBL, also known as the Ultimate Beat Battle League, is a well known competition for music producers. The UBL event will take place during 2019’s 4th quarter. New marketing, new artists, and a whole new feel! Look forward for The music,the live concerts, and all the exciting events from G-Man Entertainment that is coming your way! www.gmanent.com Founder / Owner: George Waters Co-owner: Kenny Minnard
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ap music of the hip hop culture, as G Man Entertainment’s artist, Intalek stated, is the youngest genre of music. He expressed how today rap music has blossomed. Rap has taken on different styles within the genre. Intalek refers to his style as being true to the art of hip hop; the lyrics and the art -- the core. Intalek stated that music has always been an important part of his family’s homelife growing up. He spoke of Saturday mornings cleaning up to music. Him being raised in a military family meant there was much travel, but he spent the majority of his life in Virginia Beach, Viginia. When he attended Norfolk, Virginia’s Old Dominion University he would circulate his music and performed shows. Intalek gained notoriety as a legit rapper through mainly the
ODU college circuit. One supporter being a DJ he met named DJ Rucqus. That connection opened doors such as the opening for Wu-Tang in 2011. That eventually also connected Intalek with George Waters of G Man Entertainment. Intalek, initially not yet signed, took on the road with G-Man Ent. for a few months. He took that time to feel the vibe of the entertainment company. Intalek liked the vision. Shortly there after he signed to G Man Entertainment Music Group. officially. Currently Intalek’s EP “The Chase” is available on all music streaming platforms. The EP contains the tracks, “Bigger,” “City,” and “What’s the Word.” Intalek is constructing another project titled, “Theodore,” with a release date to be announced. Look forword to seeing Intalek in 2019. Also go to his Instagram page -- BeachBoyLEK, to keep up with what’s new and get the full scope of Intalek as the man and the artist IG: BeachBoyLEK
lijah J is one of the newest artists signed to the G Man Entertainment label. Lijah J recently signed early 2019 to the newly branded label. Lijah J Has been musically active since a very early age --- around 2nd grade in elementary school. She continued through senior year at Bayside High School within chorus and talent shows. She had been awarded the opportunity to showcase in the All City honored chorus performance. Despite her quiet demeanor Lijah definitely became recognized for just how much talent was within the shy girl with the voice! The beautiful 20 year old songstress, originally born in North Carolina, has always known this was her path. Though she started modeling during time spent living in Hawaii (Military family), she never wavered on where she wanted her true journey to go--- singing was destined to be her forever and always. Since those high school musical days, Lijah has been making some big music industry moves. Lijah’s talent was noticed by label owner, George “G-Man” Waters of G-Man Entertainment. Soon after, within early 2019, G-Man Entertainment had offered Lijah a contract. Lijah J now is the only female RnB artist with the label. Though Lijah J has her own developing distinguished sound, some compare her genre to that of Jhene Aiko or Ariana Grande. The singer’s all time favorite is Alicia Keys, so I’m sure that inspires where I am hearing more of a soulfulness to Lijah J’s sound. To hear for yourself, and to see more info on what’s new with Lijah J, just go to her Instagram at _LijahJ. IG: _LijahJ
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ynse is a talented rapper that is originally from Chester, Pennsylvania, outside of Philly. Eventually his family moved to the Oceanview area of Virginia. His family recognized his talent and supported his journey in the music industry. Synse crowns is mother, that has now passed away, as his biggest fan. He describes his father as a man’s-man, that’s proudful of his son’s accomplishments. Synse’s goal is to keep the freshness and the fun of his artistry alive, despite how the business side of the industry can tend to overshadow. Synse happens to be one of the earlier G Man Entertainment artists from the 2005. For the last two years Synse has ramained under the distribution division of the newly branded G Man Entertainment. Coming off the 2016 self-titled album ‘Synse’, ‘The Juice Tape Now’ is available on Soundcloud (and Summer 2019 the 30 minute EP will also be available on all other music streaming platforms). This mixtape is centered around the movie “Juice.”
synse
Synse is ready to get back to the fun part of the music business--he wants to create! He describes candidly his creative flow, “Anything drives me to create.” Synse spoke about the true art of music, “It could be the rhythm of a conversation -- I feel like life has a rhythm to it; you just have to figure out how to ride the beat.” He continues explaining his relationship with music, “Music has been my roommate since I was about 7 or 8 years old.” He ex-
plains the surreal experience of the relatable universal tie when music communicates. “To have somewhere to put these ideas that float around in your head; then to have someone you don’t know --- someone clean across the country go... ‘Man I felt like that last week!’ --- That’s got to be the coolest thing ever.” Though Synse wishes to bask in the glow of the musical artform of rap itself, he is still well aware of the business aspects. Things have changed since the days of making songs just for his homeboys or passing out mix-tapes out on the corner. Synse has hit stages with crowds of people --- sharing the stage with artists like Wu-Tang. The rapper Synse plans to drop two more projects after the Juice Tape. He already has them in constrution with approximately 80 percent of the music completed for both of the projects. Synse is ready to release upcoming music through G Man Ent. Distribution, and ready to have fun with music again. He says outside of music he just wants to be a dope dad. Find Synse on all social media platforms as: I Am Synse.
rude beatz
Rude Beatz is one of the major producers with G-Man Entertainment Music Group. that has been with the music group for a little shy of a year. He has been producing music for artists since he was 19 years old --- he is now 24. However, his musical training began much earlier. He started playing instruments in his younger years within school. He was in the orchestra where he learned to play the violin and the upright bass.
He would also acquire the skills of playing the bass guitar. Producer Rude Beatz has been working with several rap artists. He is also involved with a tight knitted production group. The group includes producers, Dre_W, Pablo Beatz, Woosah, and of cause Rude Beatz. IG: RudeBeatzProd_
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apper Tok Lansky has G Man Management., LLC the management division of G-Man Entertainment assisting with his rap career as of 2019. The rapper has been an independant artist for the last year and a half. Tok Lansky describes his rap style as fly, flashy, and flamboyant -- his lifestyle. Originally from Norfolk, as well as Virginia Beach, Virginia, Tok Lansky has a love for all music. but him deciding to make his way in the industry has much to do with the vibration he feels as an artist he can exude within people. Tok Lansky stated, “When I go to concerts I never really go to listen to the music. I just go to see how the artist performs and how the crowd reacts. It’s just something I always wanted to do.” He explained that he fell in love with music as a way to connect with life. He wanted to be a part of something that was bigger than himself. Currently available on Soundcloud is the 3 song EP “I’m Back Outside.” Tok Lansky is also working on an upcoming project called “Well Respected” that will be coming out soon. Tok Lansky has recently opened up for the rapper Da Baby at Origami Lounge in Norfolk, VA. There is also a Father’s Day event that the rapper was invited to perform. For booking information please contact G Man Management, LLC. The booking information is available on Tok Lansky’s Instagram page. IG: @Tok_Lansky
Tok Lanksy
Big Ligiee is a 17 year old artist that his rap style can be categorized as Melodic but also Trap. He has an eclectic style that creates his own sound in his music. Long before his days of Rap or Trap Music, Big Ligiee spent much time with his grandfather that was in a reggae band. Ligiee was drawn to the musical instruments naturally. Him being even younger than 2 years of age had also studied modeling and acting. He was in dance class from 2 and a half years old to 10 years old. Through the years, by age 12, Ligiee eventually picked up a well known sample software program called FL Studios (Fruity Loops Studios). Ligiee’s mother and manager, Kym, saw what her son was mastering very well with the production software; and by the time he was 13 years old his mother/manager was finding herself supporting another one her son’s talents. She invested in the full ranged FL Studios software. He then started writing and rapping to his beats. Kym put her son into the booth at Flagship Studio, where he recorded his first two singles. Shortly after those
recordings the young Ligiee would take on even more within his music. 13 year old Ligiee told his mother that he felt he could do all of it himself.They created a home studio. The headstrong Honor Roll student had found his passion; he was a rapper. Approximately 2 years ago, Big Ligiee and mom/manager Kym took part of a teen event that talent scout, Capri Lawrence, was conducting. Capri was obviously impressed with the talent and professionalism of the young artist, because soon she would make the connection happen with G Man Entertainment. Today Big Ligiee is signed to G-Man Entertainment Music Group. “Weight On My Name” is the (A&B sided) EP that is currently available on all digital platforms. For 2019 there are plans to drop another project, create videos, and to attend the BET Experience. Youtube: Big Ligiee IG: @Ligiee Bookings: LigieeBookings@gmail.com
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he Virginia area is pretty familiar with the female hip hop artist, Miscelanyus. She has been on the scene for some time now. She’s opened up for artists such as KRSOne, Rakim, and Wu-Tang Clan--- to name a few. Miscelanyus is part of the G Man Entertainment family; currently under the distribution division. Her single “Talk About It” that released in 2017 as well as the mixtape “Sweet 16” that released in 2017 hit the VA scene with much respect. The rapper, just as her name implies, has kept herself busy and involved within various avenues, all while still keeping herself relevant in the music industry. Miscelanyus has numerous features she’s been invited to participate. Always there supporting the G man Entertainment artists. When I spoke with Miscelanyus she informed me of the many things she’s got going on and what explorations are looking promising for 2019. Miscelanyus started rocking with rapping early in her life. She reminisced of her birthing into a rapper at the age of 12. She told the story, “When I was in middle school my friend and I would write down everybody’s raps... we would rap them to each other.” She explained how that admiration for other rappers’ words and flows inspired her to do her own thing--- rap her own raps. She loved to write, in fact that was her strongest subject in school --thoughout high school and college. The love for writing and the influence of rappers such as MC Lyte, Salt-NPepa, Queen Latifah, Foxy Brown, Nas (her all time favorite), Wu-Tang---
miscelanyus even RnB asrtists like Al Green and The Isley Brothers influenced her to create her own art of music. Rapping isn’t the only thing that has sparked this multitalented lady’s interest. Miscelanyus is currently hosting shows, as well as making her way in the clothing merchandising industry. She is looking forward to venturing into possibly full figure modeling, artist development, ghost-writing, and acting. Her embedded diversed talents and energy to grow and excel in various areas, and all in her own unique way, is what makes her name so perfect--Miscelanyus. Miscelanyus is making plans to get back into the studio to work on an EP, with G Man Entertainment distribution division. Keep your ears open for Miscelanyus in 2019 because she’s coming with some exciting surprises for us all. Miscelanyus Clothing can be found on the shop page within the G Man Entertainment page. IG: IAmMisc FB: Lakeasha Miscelanyus Edwards Twitter: Miscelanyus
Donna Matlach struggled with asthma for years, but it wasn’t until she noticed how much it was interfering with simple, everyday tasks that she realized she needed to do something about it. That’s why the mother of four became a patient advocate for people with severe asthma. “I noticed that I started getting more winded taking walks and had trouble laughing at my family’s jokes,” said Matlach, a ballroom dancer and grandmother of 11. “Each year, my asthma symptoms seemed to be getting worse. My moment of truth - the asthma Aha! moment that prompted me to take action - was when I got breathless bending down to tie my shoes. That’s when I realized, this is enough, it’s time to find out what’s really going on. This isn’t just asthma.” She was determined to find out why her symptoms weren’t getting better while taking the usual asthma medications. At the worst state of her asthma condition, she found herself relying more and more on rescue inhalers to breathe. Matlach also traveled across the country and saw dozens of specialists in search of someone who could provide answers. After countless visits and tests, Matlach finally had an answer. She was diagnosed with eosinophilic asthma, a form of severe asthma linked to eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. “Daunting as it sounded, I was glad to have a diagnosis. You can’t give up and you need to try everything to find answers. I was relieved when I
HOW ONE MOTHER TOOK CONTROL OF HER ASTHMA
recognize the signs
finally got my asthma better controlled,” Matlach said. “I encourage others to talk with their doctors to find out what treatment plan is the right one for them.” Matlach’s journey with severe asthma continued long after finding her own treatment plan. She became passionate about educating more people about the condition. Matlach went on to establish the Severe Asthma Foundation, a nonprofit organization built to bring to light the prevalence of severe asthma and to help educate patients, caregivers, healthcare providers and advocates. Stories like this are not uncommon. Asthma affects more than 20 million people in the U.S. and up to 10 percent of them have a severe form. Almost 50 percent of people who have severe asthma have an increase of eosinophils in their lungs, which can cause more frequent asthma attacks. Signs of severe asthma may include: 1) You have symptoms that cause wakeups at night and interfere with your daily activities 2) You’ve experienced two or more asthma attacks in a year 3) You’ve made one or more trips to urgent care, the emergency room or a hospital If someone has had an “asthma Aha!” moment, they can take action, visit asthma.com, download the asthma e-guide to track their asthma, gain better control and have a more meaningful conversation with their doctor. “Getting the right treatment at the right time for severe asthma is important because repeated asthma flare-ups and inflammation caused by long-term