Atlantic County Woman - January/February 2022 by The County Woman

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DO YOU HAVE DRY HANDS DURING THESE TRYING TIMES? I can help you.

START 2022 BY TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF. Out with the old and in with the new. Page 19

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COUGH AND COLD SEASON IS HERE-ARE YOU READY? Nights are becoming very cold. Page 38

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Pictured above is Lauren Shover, Production Manager, with her beautiful family. Lauren has been with the County Woman for 10 years this coming April. Read more about Lauren and her effortless work ethic on pages 8 & 9.

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Community Community

February is Heart Month

Heart Disease: It Can Happen at Any Age

Heart disease doesn’t happen just to older adults. It is happening to younger adults more and more often. This is partly because the conditions that lead to heart disease are happening at younger ages. February is Heart Month, the perfect time to learn about your risk for heart disease and the steps you need to take now to help your heart. Heart disease—and the conditions that lead to it—can happen at any age. High rates of obesity and high blood pressure among younger people (ages 35-64) are putting them at risk for heart disease earlier in life. Half of all Americans have at least one of the top three risk factors for heart disease (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking). You Could Be at Risk Many of the conditions and behaviors that put people at risk for heart disease are appearing at younger ages: • High blood pressure. Millions of Americans of all ages have high blood pressure, including millions of people in their 40s and 50s. About half of people with high blood pressure don’t have it under control. Having uncontrolled high blood pressure is one of the biggest risks for heart disease and other harmful conditions, such as stroke. • High blood cholesterol. High cholesterol can increase the risk for heart disease. Having diabetes and obesity, smoking, eating unhealthy foods, and not getting enough physical activity can all contribute to unhealthy cholesterol levels. • Smoking. More than 37 million U.S. adults are current smokers, and thousands of young people start smoking each day. Smoking damages the blood vessels and can cause heart disease. On average, U.S. adults have hearts that are 7 years than they should be. Watch this video, and figure out your own “heart age” by taking this quiz.

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Other conditions and behaviors that affect your risk for heart disease include: • Obesity. Carrying extra weight puts stress on the heart. More than 1 in 3 Americans—and nearly 1 in 6 children ages 2 to 19— has obesity. • Diabetes. Diabetes causes sugar to build up in the blood. This can damage blood vessels and nerves that help control the heart muscle. Nearly 1 in 10 people in the United States has diabetes. • Physical inactivity. Staying physically active helps keep the heart and blood vessels healthy. Only 1 in 5 adults meets the physical activity guidelines of getting 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity. • Unhealthy eating patterns. Most Americans, including children, eat too much sodium (salt), which increases blood pressure. Replacing foods high in sodium with fresh fruits and vegetables can help lower blood pressure. But only 1 in 10 adults is getting enough fruits and vegetables each day. Diet high in trans-fat, saturated fat, and added sugar increases the risk factor for heart disease.

4 Ways to Take Control of Your Heart Health

You’re in the driver’s seat when it comes to your heart. Learn how to be heart healthy at any age. Don’t smoke. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, learn how to quit. Manage conditions. Work with your health care team to manage conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. This includes taking any medicines you have been prescribed. Learn more about preventing and managing high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Make heart-healthy eating changes. Eat food low in trans-fat, saturated fat, added sugar and sodium. Try to fill at least half your plate with vegetables and fruits, and aim for low sodium options. Learn more about how to reduce sodium. Stay active. Get moving for at least 150 minutes per week. You can even break up the 30 minutes into 10-minute blocks. Learn more about how to get enough physical activity. Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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January/February 2020 January/February 2022

Legal Law Professionals

Today’s Families Face Many Challenges...

I’m Here to Help Your Family Through Them. Divorce • Alimony • Custody • Child Support Marital Settlement Agreements • Post-Judgment Modifications Emancipation • Prenuptial Agreements • Appeals Marla Marinucci, Esq., has been certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney, and she is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Her sole area of practice involves Family Law matters. Marla handles everything from high-asset complex divorce matters to post-judgment custody and support modifications. She serves as a member of various organizations and committees throughout the State regarding the practice of family law and is a frequent lecturer at seminars sponsored by the New Jersey State Bar Association. Marla received her law degree from Rutgers University School of Law in Camden, New Jersey.

RUSSELL & MARINUCCI

117 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226 • CALL: (609) 398-1900 Fax: (609) 398-7292 • Email: marinucci@ocnjfamilylaw.com • www.ocnjfamilylaw.com

Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney

The The County County Woman Woman Magazine Magazine

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March/April2022 2016 January/February

Monmouth County Monmouth Cou Woman Woman Since 2008

Manager’s Note

Since 2008

All correspondence should beAll addressed to: correspondence should be addre

The County Woman The County Woman P.O. Box 619 Turnersville, NJ 08012

P.O. Box 619 Turnersville, NJ 08012

Welcome to the January/February Issue of the Atlantic County Woman! Dear Readers, I know I am not the only one excited to say farewell to 2021. It has been a year like no other. Although we are not quite “back to normal,” there is undoubtedly more hope in the air these days. During times of great strife, it is so important to try and stay positive. After all, with hard times, comes growth and change. We all know the pandemic has wreaked havoc on the economy and has caused illness for so many. Now more than ever, we must create some positivity in our lives. Maybe it’s practicing a random act of kindness for a friend, or supporting a small business. I know I am very much looking forward to what the New Year has in store. The month of February is American Heart Month. Let’s try and raise some awareness about the importance of heart health and urge our friends and loved ones to prevent heart disease. Did you know that 47% of all Americans have at least 1 in 3 key risk factors for heart disease? These days, when it comes to factors, we cannot control, we must do just that! Live a healthy lifestyle and keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels normal. Also, in the month of February, we celebrate Valentine’s Day. Send someone you love some red roses, or better yet some chocolate. Did you know that dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and can improve brain function? Wishing you and your loved ones all the best for the coming year! Best Wishes, Lauren Shover, Production Manager, & the Staff at the Atlantic County Woman Publication The County Woman Magazine

woman

The County Woman’s Newspaper is published bi-monthly and isWoman’s available Newspaper free of charge at The County is published bi-monthly and is avail display stands in approved private and public establishments and authorized display stands in approveddistributors private andonly, public establishments and authori or by paid mail subscription. or by paid mail subscription. Trademark and U.S. Copyright Laws protect The County Woman’s Newspaper. No Laws part ofprotect The County Woman’s N Trademark and U.S. Copyright this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of thebepublisher. this paper may reproduced without the written permission of the publ The County Woman’s Newspaper is not responsibleThe for any editorial comment (other isthan County Woman’s Newspaper not responsible for any editorial c its own), typographical errors from advertisements submitted as camera ready or any its own), typographical errors fromreproducadvertisements submitted as camera r tions of advertisements submitted as camera ready. tions of advertisements submitted as camera An Educational Resource for Women and Their Families ready. If an advertisement does not meet our standards of acceptance, we may does revisenot or meet cancelour it atstandards of acceptance, we ma If an advertisement any time, whether or not it has been already acknowledged previously The acknowledged and/or previo any time,and/or whether or not itpublished. has been already Publisher Chris Lam chris@thecountywoman.com advertiser assumes sole responsibility for all statements contained in submitted copy and will advertiser assumes sole responsibility for all statements contained in subm Manager & Advertising Sales Lauren protect andProduction indemnify the Woman’s Newspaper, its protect owners,and publishers, andthe employees, against indemnify Woman’sShover Newspaper, its owners, publishers, a any and all liability loss or expensestaff@thecountywoman.com arising out of claims for libel, unfair loss tradeornames, any and all liability expensepatents, arising out of claims for libel, unfair tr copyrights and propriety rights, and all violations ofcopyrights the right ofand privacy or other violations propriety rights, and all violations of the right of privacy o Billing Padden Cooper LLC,from Certified Public Accountants resulting fromManager the publication of this newspaper or resulting its advertising copy. the publication of this newspaper or its advertising copy. The publisher shall be under no liability for failure, The for any reason,shall to insert an advertisepublisher be under no liability for failure, for any reason, to billing@thecountywoman.com ment. The publisher shall not be liable by reason of ment. error, omission and/or failure to insert anyreason of error, omission and/o The publisher shall not be liable by Graphic Designer Golden Design LLC part of an advertisement. The publisher will not be liable or failure inThe performance part offorandelay advertisement. publisher will not be liable for delay or failu Lynn Wolf in publication and/or distribution if all CEO or any portion of anK.issue isand/or delayed or suspended in publication distribution if allfor or any portion of an issue is delay any reason. The publisher will exercise reasonable judgment in these instances will and exercise will make any reason. The publisher reasonable judgment in these insta adjustments for theFor advertiser where and when appropriate. adjustments for please the advertiser call: where and when appropriate. advertising inquiries, The Woman’s Newspaper assumes no responsibility The for unsolicited material orassumes reproducWoman’s Newspaper no responsibility for unsolicited ma tions made by advertisers. tions made by advertisers. This newspaper will be published by the 15th of every month.will be published by the 15th of every other month. Thisother newspaper Representations by The Monmouth County Woman, LLC TM COPYRIGHT 2008. County Woman, LLC TM COPYR Representations by The Monmouth Ce

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The County Woman’s Newspaper is published bi-monthly and is available free of charge at display stands in approved private and public establishments and authorized distributors only, or by paid mail subscription. Trademark and U.S. Copyright Laws protect The County Woman’s Newspaper. No part of this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The County Woman’s Newspaper assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or reproductions made by advertisers. This newspaper will be published by the 15th of every other month. Representations by CW Media Group, LLC, COPYRIGHT 2008.

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January/February 2022

Table Of Contents Legal Professionals

Russell & Marinucci....................................................... 3

Financial Management

Fabulous Food

Pet Services

Travel Agency

Theatre & Entertainment

Fine Art Photography

Business & Finance

Community............................................ 28, 29, 36

Garden State Trust Company...................................... 16

D’Amato Law Firm....................................................... 11

Funny Farm Rescue.................................................... 22

Health & Wellness

A Mindful Renewal........................................................ 5 Enlightened Solutions.................................................. 13

Atlantic City Ballet....................................................... 23

Hummingbird Yoga...................................................... 18 Nina Radcliff, MD........................................................ 19 Jersey Shore Pharmacy.............................................. 27

Copiers Plus................................................................ 24

Medical Professionals

5 Cutting Board Creations LLC...................................... 35

Vagabond Travel Agency............................................. 37

Donna Andrews Photography..................................... 39

Fashion & Beauty

Advanced Care Ob/Gyn Infertility.................................. 6

The Bra Boudoir.......................................................... 25

Atlantic Medical Imaging............................................... 7

Women of Atlantic County............. 30, 31

Certified Dermatology................................................. 10 Go Feet: Dr. Stuart W. Honick..................................... 12

Psychiatry

Shore Vascular & Vein Center................................ 14, 15

Charles Meusburger, MD....................................... 32, 33

Relievus....................................................................... 17

Men’s Clothing

Kathy A. Banks, DMD............................................ 20, 21 Paonessa Colon and Rectal Surgery, PC.................... 26

Lou Marchiano for Men............................................... 34

Featured on the Cover

Certified Life Coach

Meet the Production Manager.................................. 8, 9

Jessica L. Conrad........................................................ 34

Health & Wellness

A Mindful Journey To Well-Being We have all experienced some type of personal struggle over the last few years and while challenges are never fun, there is beauty and growth on the other side. Gina M. Peccia, MA, LPC, LLC

Gina M.Peccia, MA, LPC, LLC gina@amindfulrenewal.com 2021 New Road, Suite 12B Linwood, NJ 08221

(609) 204-9940 amindfulrenewal.com Begin the journey to a brand new you! The County Woman Magazine

As a Licensed Counselor and Certified Mindful Coach, Gina M. Peccia guides her clients on that journey and helps them achieve their goals.

“Whatever your personal struggle entails, my clinical experience or mindful coaching will help you make the changes to become more successful in your endeavors,” she says. Her practice as a Mindful coach is an active process which helps her clients identify their purpose and mission in life and then guide them on their journey to a more positive state of mind. Mindfulness is defined as a non-judgmental way of paying attention to the present moment. Whether you are stuck in a difficult life transition or dealing with anxiety and depression, Gina has the tools to help move you through those muddy waters. She adds, “So much of the time it is our negative and habitual thinking that can lead to chronic depression and debilitating anxiety.”

Her 15+ years of experience in private practice, agency, and hospital service has allowed her to garner new ways to cope and improve her clients overall outlook on life.

Offering Virtual and In-person appointmen ts

She adds, “I am well-versed in helping my clients meet their goals and propel them toward change so they can become effective in all their endeavors.” Gina’s interest in mindfulness began several years ago and she credits author and mindfulness expert Jon Kabat Zinn for awakening her passion. It’s about being fully awake in our lives and living each moment with intention and gratitude. Because she has been through her own fair share of challenging life transitions, Gina has that rare ability to empathize with others suffering in similar circumstances. Her passion for helping her clients become who they were meant to be and build their own self-confidence brings her a sense of true joy.

Call (609) 204-9940 for a free strategy session, to discover your individual needs! Testimonial “Working with Gina has been a very satisfying and empowering experience. During a time of transition and change, she was able to assist me in identifying a goal and break it down into attainable steps…I highly recommend Gina because she is professional, caring and supportive.” - Beth L.

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January/February 2022

Medical Professionals

Start 2022 By Taking Care Of Yourself! Out with the old and in with the new, as the saying goes. The year of 2021 will soon be a memory, and 2022 has come. It is now time to look back at this past year and ponder our life’s events. What did we do, didn’t we do? It’s time for a “New Year’s resolution”! This year should be about you and your health. The recommendations and guidelines are clear. All women over the age of 21 should have an annual gynecological exam. This is considered routine, and it is independent of sexual activity. I continue to recommend that women perform monthly self-breast exams (SBE). A woman should start her SBE when mature enough to perform such

an exam or by the age of 21. There are several different ways to perform an SBE. Each differs in technique, but all are equally effective. If you are not aware of how to do an SBE, we can instruct you in the office. You can also visit sites like the American Cancer Society or Web MD, which are helpful. Doing the exam empowers women to take charge of their health care and allows them to become familiar with the breast tissue. Knowing the feel of the breast tissue will help one distinguish what has been there, what is new, what may be abnormal, etc. Concerns regarding your SBE should be referred to your gynecologist for prompt evaluation.

Annual gynecological exams should consist of a review of medical and surgical history, medication history, sexual history, menstrual, STD, and urologic history. It would also include the examination of the breasts and abdomen, genital, and vaginal areas. I also examine the patient’s social and marital history. An important part of this exam is the psycho-social aspect of women’s health care. I try to provide an open and free-flowing environment that allows a patient to discuss other issues and aspects of her life. The annual exam allows the time to listen and provide the care each woman deserves. Annual pap screening is recommended to begin at age 21, independent of sexual activity. The pap is done with the annual gynecological exam.

For all women ages 21 to 25, testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia are part of the exam. In this age group, education is a key component of the visit. I try

to really discuss with each young woman the issues of pregnancy prevention, STD protection and prevention, available human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccinations, and

an awareness of her body. There may be many other psycho-social issues that surface during this time. Talking about sex in particular may be hard and uncomfortable for a mom or dad to do or for a girl to hear. But nonetheless it is very important. It may be easier to hear it from her doctor. These topics are very important for women in this stage of their lives. I always welcome and encourage women younger than 21 to have a visit with me prior to that age. Ideally, somewhere between 13 and 15 years old is a good starting point. At this visit, a young woman is introduced to the idea and concepts of a gynecologist and the care provided. I keep it upbeat and positive, and base the conversation and details on the level of maturity of each individual. I try not to scare or overwhelm them on their first visit.

Women 30 and above should have HPV testing done with their pap.

I review routine health and screening recommendations. I also take a family cancer history to attempt to identify patients who are at increased risk of breast, ovarian, uterine or colorectal cancers. If patients are identified, I then review available testing for genetically linked cancers of those areas, many of which can be performed in our office. At 35 to 39, I recommend a baseline mammogram. This allows the radiologist a reference to compare future mammograms, which should begin annually at age 40. I also screen women for HIV and vitamin D deficiency. It is recommended for all women ages 13 to 64 to have annual HIV testing, independent of risk factors. This is to identify asymptomatic HIV-positive persons. Annual vitamin D testing is done since low levels have been associated with an increased risk of colon and breast cancers. Testing allows me to identify, educate and potentially prescribe certain supplements. As an aside, the recommended daily requirement for vitamin D is 800 IU. This is available over the counter as vitamin D or D3. I generally recommend the vitamin D3.

For women ages 65 and older (or younger with certain risk factors), a bone or DEXA scan is recommended to diagnose osteopenia and osteoporosis. Early detection leads to early intervention and the hope of avoiding

fractures related to thin bones. As a woman, you’re probably the general or commander-in-chief of your home. There is a tremendous amount of work you do to run a smooth operation. You take care of everyone else first. Realize that you need to take care of you! You need to stay healthy to do all that you do. We at Advanced Care are here to guide you and help you on your life’s journey.

To schedule an appointment at Advanced Care Ob/Gyn, call 609-272-0506 or visit www.advancedcareobgyn.com.

We’re With You All The Way

Old-Fashioned Care With State-Of-The-Art Technology Quality, Compassionate Healthcare for All Stages of a Woman’s Life Courtyard Professional Offices 707 White Horse Pike, Suite D4 • Absecon, NJ 08201 609.272.0506 • Fax: 609.272.0607 Linwood Commons 2106 New Road, Suite D10 • Linwood, NJ 08221 609.927.2244 • Fax: 609.927.2242

PICTURED: Salvatore A. Carfagno, DO, FACOOG, Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, with his beautiful family

The County Woman Magazine

Affliated with: AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center and Shore Medical Center

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January/February 2022

Medical Professionals

YOUR LIFE CAN CHANGE IN A HEARTBEAT.

Protect yourself with a Coronary CTA. In fewer than five heartbeats, we can discover the earliest signs of heart disease. This non-invasive exam produces 3-D, 360 degree images of the coronary arteries, the place where heart attacks originate. If you have one or more risk factors associated with heart disease, ask your Healthcare Provider if this exam is right for you.

To schedule an appointment, please CALL (609) 677-XRAY (9729).

The County Woman Magazine

www.TheCountyWoman.com

January/February 2022

Featured On The Cover

Meet the Production Manager, Lauren Shover This will be Lauren Shover’s 10th year as the Production Manager for County Woman Publications. Considered to be the true “backbone” of the publication by those who work with her, she began her career right before graduating from Rowan University with a Bachelors degree in Public Relations. She later decided to continue her education, earning a Master’s Degree in Communications from Southern New Hampshire University. Her educational background has prepared her well for this role, as the job is not one for the faint of heart. Generally speaking, a magazine production manager oversees the production of a magazine, from initial meetings that decide editorial and advertising, to the final stages of production, design, printing, and circulation. The County Woman Magazine

Luckily, one of Lauren’s strongest qualities is organization, which happens to be critical for this role. The job also demands excellent time management skills and the ability to manage competing deadlines. While chaotic days still exist, Lauren admits to being the type of person that relishes in challenges and actually views them as opportunities. Lauren is excited to reach for some of her goals for the magazine this year. One of them is continuing to explore new opportunities for the magazines and to advertise the publication more on the digital side. She adds, “It is imperative that we remain current and up to date with new advances in technology.”

www.TheCountyWoman.com

January/February 2022

Featured On The Cover Like the rest of the world, the pandemic has affected the organization. “I really miss being able to see my clients in person. One of the best parts about building long lasting relationships is getting to interact with people and getting to know my clients not just on a business level, but on a personal one as well,” she explains. Although they have taken advantage of Zoom meetings and Face Time as much as they can, it is not a substitute for being in person and building connections. Because she lives locally, she has always been able to see her clients and readers in person. However now due to Covid, she has not been able to be out and about as much. This remains one aspect of the job she misses the most.

to embarking on a bright future together. Needless to say she is excited for the upcoming nuptials, but she also looks forward to making new memories with her six-year-old stepdaughter, Harper. She adds, “Chuck and I are also super excited to add more animals to our family farm.” Plans for the future include more travelling with her new family and going camping when the weather gets a bit warmer.

She tells anyone who is interested in taking this career path that they must be able to troubleshoot and delegate. Production coordinators work with all aspects of the magazine from editorial, design, advertising, and production teams. It is up to her to ensure there is coordination among all of these different departments. Sometimes the schedule As we embark on the New Year, Lauren is interested in must be adjusted so the ability to communicate well with adding more social media incentives for her clientele, as well the printers and vendors to ensure print quality is a key part as finding more ways for readers to access the magazine at of the overall success. their fingertips. She is determined to find ways to foster the relationships she has with her clients, in spite of Covid. Lauren extends her deepest gratitude to all of you and gives a special thanks to the publisher of the County Woman Publications, Chris Lam. Please be sure and check A successful magazine has many moving parts and us out on Social Media! various roles that staff play. From the graphic designers, photographers, advertisers, and of course you, the readers. It resembles a gigantic puzzle with everyone doing his or her part to finally come together in the end for print. One of Lauren’s favorite aspects about her role is the ability to exercise her creative muscle. She adds, “I love to create new content for each client which includes designing and developing new ideas.” Another part of the job she enjoys is bringing new business into the magazine. When a new business is wondering why they should advertise she explains that this magazine is not just affordable with competitive pricing, but the informative articles and content for the readers stretch across three different counties. The other advantage for businesses is that they get an all inclusive graphic design experience that gives advertisers the chance to create and design colorful content. 2022 promises to be an exciting one for Lauren---not just professionally, but because she is getting married in April. She and her fiancé Chuck are looking forward The County Woman Magazine

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January/February 2022

Medical Professionals

Do You Have Dry Hands During These Trying Times? By Lisa Ledden We all know that frequent hand washing is essential to help preventing the spread of COVID-19. But, science also reveals that dry, cracked skin also makes it easier for bacteria and viruses to enter your body. So what shoul d we do? If you have dry hands, you must

continue to wash them. Moisturizers that are fragrance free, and emollient-based helps heal dry skin.

Other Helpful Tips:

1. If your hands are frequently immersed in water, such as cleaning or washing dishes, wear elbow length gloves. HANDWASHING--The How To’s 2. Before bed, apply an ointment-based emollient, such as Vaseline, 1. Wash your hands in lukewarm water for at least 20 seconds using cover your hand with white cotton gloves and allow to penetrate the soap. skin while you sleep. 2. Dry your hands leaving them slightly damp. 3. Always use warm, NOT HOT, water. 3. Apply a cream or ointment moisturizer- preferred rather than a 4. Consider using a bedroom humidifier –it helps keep the skin lotion - to slightly damp skin. hydrated. What About HAND SANITIZER? 5. Keep a sample of moisturizer in your purse or pocket at all times. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends using a hand We have lots of samples in our office, just call Donna @ 609-940sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to kill germs, but hand 3100 and we’ll be happy to share!! We’re in Somer’s Point Mondays sanitizer can be very drying. There is no evidence that using a hand thru Thurdays.  sanitizer makes it easier to pick up germs. It’s dry skin that increases If you are unable to repair your dry skin with home based remedies, your risk of picking up germs. If you have dry skin from using hand schedule an appointment, there are prescription creams that work well sanitizer, apply moisturizer immediately after your hand sanitizer dries. to heal dry, itchy or cracked skin.

Lisa M Ledden MSN, APN-C

Nurse Practitioner

Certified Dermatology

Specializing in General and Cosmetic Dermatology 599 Shore Road, Suite 202, Somers Point, NJ

732-456-7777 (Main) • 609-940-3100 (Office)

Recipe Chicken In Puff Pastry Compliments of Chef Steph

Serves 4

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed and rolled out into a 14in square. 4 boneless chicken breasts, cooked 1/3 cup herbed soft cheese 1/4 cup fresh parsley , chopped 1 large egg Optional ingredients-chopped spinach, diced roasted red peppers, additional cheese, etc.

The County Woman Magazine

Preheat the oven to 400 degress. Roll out puff pastry, cut into four equal sized pieces. Place 1 1/2 tablesoons of herbed cheese in the center of each piece. Top herbed cheese with a chicken breast and then chopped parsley Next, fold the corners of the pastry over the chicken breast. Place chicken pastry seam side down on a baking sheet covered in parchement. Lightly brush the top with a whisked egg. Bake for 20-25minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Feel free to add any of the optional ingredients as well & enjoy!

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January/February 2022

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LheawD’Amato Law Firm

#17 Legal Professionals

ited Civil ne YouMy Love MayRights?! Have Autism? It’sBack A New Year – Will You Have Regrets? Giving To Our Community

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The MRI shows on the shape into the If you have ever played team policy. usually ainsurance magician, games, ight toworking Sue,includes callauto yourputting auto insurance a herniation, but the doctor cannot say whether the herniation was right hole and there was Jerard, nine sciatica or have been told you pizza, sweets, pictures with Santa sports, had joint pain, ompany immediately and ask them from the crash or not because you also have degeneration, stenosis and younger than Massi,of playing with select Paul, 6-years-old, 5-years-old, and months lots gifts. the MUST have arthritis, you the No Massi, Limitation on and arthritis. You go back to physical therapy, but the pain is still there. You ondchange yourofpolicy to Members the NO this toy with ease. just seemed like such Rocco, 3-years-old sey Atlantic County BarItpolicies Association go to a neurosurgeon who says you do not need surgery so she refers Lawsuit on your auto insurance policy. imitation. Auto insurance silly and easy game for Jerard, but yet for t and athe you to pain management. You go under anesthesia 3 times and have Atlantic County Superior an be confusing if you’re not sure Massi he so had to actually work to be able to do that. t Court injections in your low back to help alleviate the pain. It helps some, but staffyoulove toand watch the chaos It has been that over 90% of drivers in New Jersey elect the hat coverage have wantreported to you’re still in pain. Limitation ontheir Lawsuit or Limited Right to Sue for their auto insurance the students unwrap gifts, lkasabout it, please schedule an office What do you do if someone you love may have Autism? or You would think that you should be able to recover money for your coverage. If youtime aren’tasure or not you elected the Limited Right excitement every newwhether sitand andthe I will review your you policy When a child love is diagnosed with a developmental delay or neurological pain and suffering, right?! The collision was not your fault. The other to Sue, then you probably have. gift children ith youis atrevealed. no charge. condition likeThe Autism, it canare be asovery scary, lonely time for the family. Alex and I had driver so was drunk and you have pain that you never had before the crash. appreciative and their smiles and many questions our family’s andto while we are blessed to have many friendsUnfortunately you have elected the Limitation on Lawsuit or Limited Have about I Limited myfuture, Right Sue? laughter fillyears, everyone’s with and family thatNew loveD’Amato usheart dearly and supportive, it was hard to find anybody In Jersey you canwere selectincredibly the been Limitation on Lawsuit or Limited For over 40 the Law Firm has representing people Right to Sue on your auto insurance policy. Your doctors cannot swear happiness and gratitude. beand able who could truly toTo what we were going through. Right torelate Sue option save money on your car insurance. That sounds under oath of penalty of perjury that your herniation came from the car who have been injured. If you have been seriously injured in a motor cannot thank Autism enough, asyour well right as all of therapists and teachers great, but inFACES reality,4you are hampering to the recover money to makeIthe children’s holiday season crash. You cannot recover money for your pain and suffering. vehicle collision or by a defective product, or if you have been in a situain Massi’s life who have helped him become the fabulous little guy he is today. He has for your injuries. God forbid, but let’s imagine for a minute that a so special is truly the greatest gift I grown indrunk leaps bounds and while II down am willpride always struggle keep up bothWhat should I do? driver comes barreling the he road and crashes into to you. You or of my colleagues could ever tionany where your civiland rights were violated, canafraid help. We ourselves think that no injuries youtogether should be ableand easierDon’t let this happen to you! If you have selected the Limitation on academically and socially, canmatter see thewhat piecesyour of the puzzleare, fitting easier receive. Thewould excitement in Ithe room Lawsuit or Limited Right to Sue, call your auto insurance company in assisting those in ourmoney. area orThat’s elsewhere who need of profesto recover the case if in you elected the Limitation on the years progress and am excited about hisare future. that asday takes you back to being anot immediately and ask them to change your policy to the No Limitation. Lawsuit or Limited Right to Sue option. her sional, caring and effective legalmagic representation. kid, and reminds you of the of the holiday season. If you think your child may beRight delayed developmentally or have a If you had the No Limitation on Lawsuit for the hypothetical crash we How will the Limited to Sue affect me? discussed, I could have recovered money damages for the years of pain nt Ifneurological you wouldcondition like to learn more about thefamily Young Lawyers like Autism, call your physician or see When a collision occurs and you have selected the and suffering you went through because all you would have to show is t Division or find outneurologist. how you can contribute to the Children’s a developmental out only to FACES 4 Autism online Limited Right to Sue, Reach you can recover money for at that the drunk driver caused the crash and you suffered injuries.

CALL NOW FOR A FREE Holiday Party, please visit our website at atcobaryld.com or like FACES4Autism.org Mosca at (609) 412-3750. your injuriesor if call you:Isabelle 609.926.3300 our CONSULTATION: Facebook page “ACBA Young Lawyers Division.”

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The D’Amato Law Firm focuses their practice in representing those who have been seriously injured in construction, products liability and motor vehicle collisions. The firm handles cases throughout the country with a primary focus on representing victims injured in Southern New Jersey. The D’Amato Law Firm has a national reputation for excellence.

Paul R. D’Amato Certified Civil Trial Attorney

Alexa D’Amato Barrera

Call your insurance company today so you do NOT have regrets in the New Year!

Visit www.damatolawfirm.com Paul R. D’Amato, Esquire Member NJ Bar

Alexa D’Amato Barrera, Esquire Member NJ & PA Bar

Stephen M. Van Natten, Esquire

Member NJ & PA Bar Counsellor at Law The D’Amato Law Firm focuses their practice inNJ representing those who have been seriously injured in construction, products liability and motor vehicle collisions. The firm and PA BAR The handles D’Amatocases Law throughout Firm focusesthe their practice inMember country with a primary focus on representing victims injured in Southern New Jersey. The D’Amato Law Firm has a national reputation for excellence. Paul R. D’Amato www.damatolawfirm.com representing those who have been seriously injured Paul R.Civil D’Amato Certified Trial Attorney in construction, liability Suite and motor vehicle Certified Civil Trial Attorney 2900products Fire Road, 200 • Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey 08234 • 2900 Fire Road, Alexa D’Amato Barrera collisions. The firm handles cases throughout theSuite 200 Counsellor at Law countryEgg with aHarbor primary focusTownship, on representing victims New Jersey 08234 Alexa D’Amato Barrera injured in Southern New Jersey. The D’Amato Law Member NJ and PA BAR www.TheCountyWoman.com The County Woman Magazine January/February 2022 P: 609-926-3300 Counsellor at Law Firm has a national reputation for excellence.

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StephenNJM. Van Esq. Member and PA Natten, BAR

Medical Professionals

10 Benefits of MLS Laser Therapy Pain, swelling, and dysfunction caused by arthritis, soft tissue injury, or necessary surgery interfere with your ability to walk and do day-to-day activities. Accelerate healing and achieve long-lasting pain relief with MLS Laser Therapy. Laser therapy reduces inflammation and stimulates your body to heal itself. MLS treatments allow you to skip the pharmaceutical solutions, invasive surgery, or injections that are commonly used to treat foot injuries and chronic pain. Go Feet was the first podiatry practice in the southern New Jersey area to use the MLS Robotic Laser. Serving members of the Hammonton and Mays Landing, New Jersey communities, Go Feet’s expert team of podiatrists can help you determine if MLS laser therapy is right for you.

may be resolved with just four to six sessions while a chronic condition, such as arthritis, benefits from 10-15 treatments. You’ll notice improvements right away and feel progressively better with each consecutive treatment.

Read on to learn the benefits of MLS laser therapy.

7. Appropriate for a wide range of ailments

1. Customizable

The Go Feet podiatrists recognize that your condition is unique to you and not deserving of a one-size-fits-all therapy plan. MLS therapy is fully customized to meet your needs and get the best healing results.

2. Noninvasive

MLS laser therapy uses concentrated light energy that penetrates your outer layer of skin and stimulates healing in the soft tissue that lies beneath. You walk out of the office without having endured any incisions, painful manipulation, injections, or blood loss.

3. Reduces post-surgical recovery time

When used after surgery, MLS laser therapy reduces recovery times. This allows you to return to a higher quality of life sooner.

4. Quick

Each MLS laser therapy session lasts about 10 minutes, and you see results in a relatively short period of time. An acute problem, such as an ankle sprain, Stuart Honick, DPm, Pt, FacFaS

Podiatric Medicine & Surgery Diplomate American Board of Podiatric Surgery Board Certified in Foot Surgery

5. Painless

Treatment with the MLS laser is not painful. You don’t have to tolerate any heat (or cold) during treatment, and it’s safe to use over implanted metal devices.

6. Strong anti-inflammatory effect

The energy from the MLS laser enters your damaged cells, accelerates intercellular activity, and speeds recovery. The laser encourages a metabolic response in the cells that has stalled or slowed. As a result, you experience reduced swelling and inflammation that impede your range of movement and exacerbate pain. The MLS laser is effective in encouraging healing after surgery, but it also facilitates quick healing from strains and sprains. It’s also effective in treating superficial injuries such as wounds and ulcers.

8. Improves circulation

Because your foot is so far away from your heart, circulation to it is often impeded. Blood circulation is necessary to healing as it floods an injury with oxygen and vital nutrients. MLS laser therapy encourages circulation, so you feel better faster while experiencing tissue healing, cell repair, and healthy tissue growth.

9. Accurate

MLS laser therapy delivers controlled energy. The doctors at Go Feet can provide the right therapeutic amount for your needs and repeat this accurate dosage for consistent and repeatable results.

10. Safe, with no side effects

MLS laser therapy has no side effects as the procedure is noninvasive. The use of the MLS laser is FDA-approved. If you have an acute or chronic injury that’s preventing you from doing all the activities you need to do and enjoy, call Go Feet, or book an appointment using our online tool. We can fill you in on how you can benefit from the impressive healing power of MLS laser therapy.

Stuart Honick, DPm, Pt, FacFaS • JameS r. williamSon, DPm, aBPm • Payal Patel, DPm

Arthritis • Athlete’s Foot • Bunions • Diabetic Foot Care • Foot & Ankle Injuries Foot Surgeries • Fungal Nails • Hammertoes • Heel Pain MLS Robotic Laser Therapy • Nail Problems • Neuromas • Orthotics • Warts 392 N. White Horse Pike Suite #2 Hammonton, NJ

609.704.9001

5401 Harding Highway Suite #5 Mays Landing, NJ

609.625.5400

Call one of our three locations today, or use the online tool to schedule.

Central Square 199 New Road, Unit 47 Linwood, NJ 08221

609.904.0900

Dr. Stuart W. Honick

www.GoFeet.com The County Woman Magazine

Diplomate American Board of Podiatric Surgery, Board Certified in Foot Surgery

www.TheCountyWoman.com

Dr. James R. Williamson Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine

Dr. Payal Patel

Board Qualified American Board Foot and Ankle Surgery

January/February 2022

Health & Wellness

The Hansen Foundation’s Recovery Housing

Housing Recovery….One Person at a Time, One Day at a Time Lisa Whitley, PMP – Executive Director, The Hansen Foundation The Ying Yang of this duo creates a balanced dualism that is essential to their life saving work…..helping people heal from substance use disorder (SUD). The complementary opposite forces of Terri Burns, Director of Operations, and Melissa Loupos, Assistant Director of Serenity Housing at the Hansen Foundation, creates the ideal team to run the Recovery Housing Program. The Hansen Foundation Residences, called Serenity Houses, provide a structured, affordable, long-term, family-like atmosphere for people to learn how to LIVE after enduring the depths of addiction. Living in Recovery housing is truly a time of learning new life skills and having the right kind of support is essential to sustained Recovery.…. enter Terri and Melissa. Each one has travelled their own road of addiction and know first-hand the challenges of sustaining Recovery. Terri, a high energy personality that has a spirited approach to everything, is in long term Recovery since 1997 and has worked in the field of addiction since 1999. She started using substances before the age of 12. As a young teenager she was allowed to drink alcohol at home and by her mid-teens this “norm” led to increased alcohol and drug abuse. By her midtwenties Terri finally reached a point at which she knew if she didn’t stop using substances she would die. Terri entered the addiction profession by coincidence while living in Recovery housing after her own treatment. A housemate invited her to take a temporary job while she was on leave from work, at a youth advocate program. It was a job that became a profession; one that has led her to co-founding Enlightened Solutions Treatment center, her current position with the Foundation, and numerous leadership positions with organizations that determine standards and best practices for Recovery housing in the State of New Jersey. Quiet but strongly persuasive, Melissa had a much different journey to addiction. Although plagued with severe anxiety as a child and teen, Melissa was a model child. She was captain of the track team, a good student, and had wonderful friends. Her close family was thrilled when she entered Villanova where she chose to major in business. College partying

introduced her to a new way to control her anxiety, something that was increasing as the college work intensified. It was during this time Melissa lost her grandmother and aunt, both of which she was close to. As the alcohol consumption increased, the ability to manage it all diminished. She left college and proceeded to enter a cycle of drinking and prescription drug use 24 hours a day. By 21, she had endured 12 detoxes, numerous Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and three inpatient treatment centers. She entered the Hansen Foundation’s Serenity Recovery House in 2013 after treatment. After several years of Recovery, Melissa was offered a position by Terri to work in housing while pursuing her BSW from Rutgers. Each one brings a dedication and passion to the job. As a team, they work with each resident on an individual basis. “No two people are alike and it is our role to go the extra mile for everyone that walks through our doors,” says Loupos. Their philosophy is to know the individual, understand their strengths and struggles and identify the ways to best support them. “Whether it be facing legal issues, regaining a driver’s license, getting custody of their children back or simply learning how to do laundry, food shop, cook and clean, our staff helps people,” says Terry. Terri and Melissa are not only fiercely committed to their staff but also to each other and their mission to help people heal. Terri says that her work with the Hansen Foundation has “been an amazing journey of watching people get their lives back.” Melissa’s favorite quote sums it best, “You can’t lead the people if you don’t love the people. You can’t save the people if you don’t serve the people.” Dr. Cornel West

MORE ABOUT THE HANSEN FOUNDATION The Hansen Foundation transforms lives—helping ALL people become healthier and happier. To learn more about Terri Burns, Director of Operations, and Melissa Loupos, Assistant Director of Serenity Housing and to support the life-changing work we are doing at The Hansen Foundation, please visit us at www.hansenfoundation.org or reach me directly at lwhitley@hansenfoundationnj.org

The Hansen Foundation, Inc.

4 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Suite 3 | Galloway, NJ 08205 Mobile : 609-968-3873 | Main: 609-270-4443 | Tax ID #31-1667973 lwhitley@hansenfoundationnj.org | hansenfoundationnj.org

Wishing you and your “Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning, but a ‘going on’, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us. Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.”

Happy New Year family a happy and prosperous

“Your success and happiness lies in you. Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host

- Helen Keller

- Oprah Winfrey

“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its

- Edith Lovejoy Pierce

The County Woman Magazine

“Each New Year, we have before us a brand new book containing 365 blank pages. forgotten things from last year—the words we forgot to say, the love we forgot to show, and the charity we forgot to offer.”

- Peggy Toney Horton

www.TheCountyWoman.com

New Year in 2022!

“We spend January 1st walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives... not potential.”

- Ellen Goodman

January/February 2022

Medical Medical Professionals Professionals

10 14

The Most Common Questions And Answers Concerning Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are one of the most common vascular conditions affecting women...and men of all ages. Treatment options have improved greatly in recent years. In spite of these advancements, many people mistakenly still believe that treatment for this problem is difficult, painful, and simply considered “cosmetic.” Other people may experience leg pain and other symptoms but they don’t realize what is causing their condition. This article will answeraricose some common questions regarding associated and treatment. veins are one of the most common vascular varicose How are veins, varicosethe veins and venoussymptoms, reflux diagnosed? conditions affecting women...and men of all ages. An experienced vascular specialist can make the diagnosis with techniques, allowoffor treatment history, physical examination and a Treatment greatly in a combination a medical Jeffreyoptions S. Gosin,have MD,improved FACS WITHOUT the need painful recent years. In spite of these advancements, painless vascular test for called a Doppler ultrasound (also known as surgery. One of the best, most many people mistakenly still believe that treat- a proven venoustreatments duplex scan.) Making the correct diagnosis is essential for venous reflux What are varicose veins? ment for this problem is difficult, painful, and inisproperly treating this This condition. the Closure® Procedure. Varicose veins are swollen veins that simply considered “cosmetic.” Other people minimally invasive procedure is venous reflux treated? How are varicose veins and can be seen through the skin. They often performed right in the office in may experience leg pain and other symptoms Sometimes compression less stockings will be sufficient to control have a bulging, twisted appearance. than 30 minutes, with no incisions, but they don’t realize what is causing their and prevent complications. When procedures are needed, Some varicose veins may be very large symptoms minimal discomfort, and excellent condition. This article will answer some results. technology and techniques, allow for treatment WITHOUT and discolored. Others may be smaller. current common questions regarding varicose veins, the need for painful surgery. One of the best, most proven treatments They can occur anywhere on the legs, How long is the recovery Jeffrey S. Gosin, MD, FACS the associated symptoms, and treatment. for venous reflux is the Closure® Procedure, now referred to as Venefit™. including the groin area.

What are varicose veins? What causes varicose veins? Varicose veins areup,swollen canthe belegs seenandthrough Blood must flow against veins gravity,that to exit return tothe theskin. heart. They often have a bulging, twisted appearance. Some varicose veins Our leg veins have one-way valves that assist in this process. Those valves can may be very large and causing discolored. be smaller. TheyThe canblood malfunction and leak, blood Others to flow inmay the wrong direction. then pools in the legs, increasing the pressure in the veins. This is known as venous occur anywhere on the legs, including the groin area. reflux disease or Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). Venous reflux is one of the What varicose mostcauses common causes ofveins? varicose veins. Blood must flow up, against gravity, to exit the legs and return to thelegsymptoms of varicose veins and venous reflux theWhat heart.are Our veins have one-way valves that assist in this process. disease? Those valves can malfunction and leak, causing blood to flow in the People with varicose veins and venous reflux may feel leg pain, leg heaviness, leg wrong direction. The blood then pools in the legs, increasing the pressure fatigue and/or leg swelling. Itching of the skin of the legs is also a very common in complaint. the veins. Standing This is known as venous refluxMany disease or Chronic may worsen symptoms. people will noticeVenous the Insufficiency reflux is one of the most causes appearance of(CVI). bulgingVenous legs veins. However, some people willcommon only feel discomfort not notice any cosmetic changes. of but varicose veins. I thought are just a cosmetic problem. What are thevaricose symptomsveins of varicose veins and venous reflux disease? with varicose veins and venous reflux may feel leg pain, leg IsPeople that true? It is important to understand varicoseItching veins and reflux are NOT heaviness, leg fatigue and/or legthat swelling. of venous the skin of the legs is necessarily simple cosmetic problems. This can be a sign of an abnormal condition also a very common complaint. Standing may worsen symptoms. Many in the circulation. In addition to pain, some individuals may be at risk for chronic people will notice the appearance of bulging legs veins. However, some swelling, permanent skin discoloration, open wounds and even blood clots. With people will onlyand feeltreatment, discomfort but not notice any can cosmetic early diagnosis long-term complications usuallychanges. be prevented. Treatment often has the added benefit of improving aesthetics, even cases that I thought varicose veins are just a cosmetic problem. Is thatintrue? areItnot considered “cosmetic.” is important to understand that varicose veins and venous reflux areWho NOT cosmetic problems. This can be a sign of isnecessarily at risk forsimple varicose veins? Prolongedcondition standing orinsitting on one place,Infamily history varicose veins, and an abnormal the circulation. addition toofpain, some indibeing overweight are all known risks. In addition, increasing age and pregnancy viduals may be at risk for chronic swelling, permanent skin discoloration, are risk factors. Some people may develop varicose veins without having any of open wounds and even blood clots. With early diagnosis and treatment, these known conditions. long-term complications can usually be prevented. Treatment often has arebenefit varicose veins and venouseven reflux diagnosed? theHow added of improving aesthetics, in cases that are not An experienced vascular specialist can make the diagnosis with a combination considered “cosmetic.” of a medical history, physical examination and a painless vascular test called a Who is atultrasound risk for varicose veins? Doppler (also known as a venous duplex scan.) Making the correct diagnosis is essential in properly treating thisplace, condition. Prolonged standing or sitting on one family history of varicose veins, overweight all venous known risks. addition, increasing Howand arebeing varicose veinsare and refluxIntreated? age and pregnancy are risk factors. Some people may develop varicoseand Sometimes compression stockings will be sufficient to control symptoms prevent complications. When procedures areconditions. needed, current technology and veins without having any of these known TheThe County Woman Magazine County Woman Magazine

from vein treatment? This minimally invasive procedure is performed right in the office In most cases individuals can inreturn less than 30usual minutes, with no incisions, minimal discomfort, to their activities within and excellent results. a day of the procedure.

How long is the recovery from vein treatment? Is varicose vein treatment In mostby cases individuals can return to their usual activities within covered health a insurance? day of the procedure. Venous reflux is a medical condition. Therefore, in many cases, varicose Is varicose vein disease treatment covered by health insurance? vein treatment is covered by is health insurance. An experienced vein treatment Venous reflux disease a medical condition. Therefore, in many center will have insurance specialists who will work with your insurance company cases, varicose vein treatment is covered by health insurance. An to confirm coverage. experienced vein treatment center will have insurance specialists who will work with your insurance company to confirm coverage.

Visit www.GetGreatLegs.com

VISIT www.GetGreatLegs.com • The The Venefit Closure Procedure Procedure • Microphlebectomy

• Sclerotherapy for treatment of spider veins • Excel V Vascular Laser for treatment of spider veins and unsightly facial veins • IAC Accredited Noninvasive Vascular Laboratory on site • Enlighten(TM) Laser Tattoo Removal

442 Bethel Road Somers Point, NJ 08244

(609) 927-VEIN (8346) www.GetGreatLegs.com

www.TheCountyWoman.com www.TheCountyWoman.com

May/June2022 2016 January/February

Medical Professionals

Spring Is Here! Get Your Legs Summer Ready! SHORE VASCULAR & VEIN CENTER Trust the Board Certiied vascular surgeon of the region’s premiere Vascular and Vein Care Center to help you get great legs. We have extensive experience with thousands of successful cases. We treat varicose veins at the source of the problem for the most eﬀective results with minimal discomfort and fast recovery. Most people are able to return to their usual activities within about a day. SOME OF OUR SERVICES: e Closure Procedure • Microphlebectomy • Sclerotherapy (Asclera) Scle for treatment of spider veins • Excel V Vascular Laser for treatment of spider veins and unsightly facial veins. • IAC Accredited noninvasive vascular laboratory laborato on site • IAC Accredited Vein Center Lorem Ipsum

609-927-VEIN (8346) 442 Bethel Road • Somers Point, NJ 08244 • www.GetGreatLegs.com The County Woman Magazine

www.TheCountyWoman.com

Jeﬀrey Gosin, M.D. F.A.C.S. Board Certiied Vascular Surgeon

January/February 2022

Financial Management

SCAMS ALERT - BE ON THE LOOKOUT! Adding new technology into the mix

“Every Time You Turn Around There’s A New Scam” - Maryann Bessette Although we may know of various scams and how to avoid them, we can’t know them all because they are changing all the time, especially as technology evolves. Technology can really give scammers the upper hand by providing new tools to work with to disguise themselves. Here are two examples:

Romance Scam -

By nature, people are social beings who crave social contact, and many older people become lonely and isolated as they age. Too often scammers use another’s loneliness as their strength in order to manipulate them. It’s not just the old story of the golddigger, but instead anyone that befriends the elderly for the sole purpose of inducing them to help with a sudden financial “emergency”. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), romance scams are on the rise.

Safety Tips -

The FTC suggests never sending money or gift cards to anyone you haven’t met in person and also provides some additional steps you should take should you suspect something is off. Stop communicating with the new romance and pay attention to concerns from family and friends. Search online for any “distress story” with the word scam after it to see if the same story is coming up repeatedly with the exact same language.

The False Authority Figure Scam -

Often perpetrated by two people posing as employees of a local electric or gas company who need to check on a “problem”, while the primary resident is distracted by one “employee”, the other steals from the property. Alternatively, someone might call pretending to be from the IRS or from the police, and demand that tax issues or bail for a loved one need to be paid immediately.

A scammer steals your bank’s logo and creates a login website using branding that looks identical to the actual website. They send an email or text asking you to verify information or that your credit card number was stolen and you need to login to request a new one. If you login using your current credentials on the fake website, their website captures your credentials and they can access your accounts to make transfers.

Safety Tips -

Ask for employee identification from anyone coming door to door, even if it seems like you’re forcing an inconvenience on the visitor. It’s also reasonable for you to call your electric or gas company directly prior to allowing them entry to verify that employee’s credentials or that they currently have someone going door to door in your neighborhood. The IRS will not call and demand immediate payment or request payment via a credit, or gift card, nor threaten to bring in police or other agencies to arrest you for not paying. If you don’t owe taxes or have any reason to believe you do, do not give out any information when called. To report an incident call 800-366-4484. Should you receive any digital messages telling you to login to an account, never click through a link on the message itself. Instead, enter your bank’s website address directly or search for your bank on a search engine such as Google. Every time your bank or a financial institution tries to initiate contact with you, utilize the same steps of verifying that it is really them by initiating contact back through their website or app directly. Trust is hard to build and easy to break. At Garden State Trust Company, we take these issues seriously and certain trust services can prevent some scams from occurring by providing a financial gatekeeper for requests for money. For a copy of our Keeping Our Seniors Safe – Watch Your Wallet booklet call 732-255-5000.

Ira J. Brower, Founder

Lifestyle & Money Management Trustee & Executor Services Investment Services True independence and understanding are at the core of our unique value proposition. Caring for and thoughtfully guiding our clients has created the strong trusting relationships we have nurtured over many decades. That’s why so many people rely upon our independent company for wealth management and trustee & executor services:

Our focus is where it should be…

Garden State Trust Company. To learn how we can focus on you and your family, contact Sean Rice today.

On You. On Your Family. On Your Future. WALL, NJ | CHERRY HILL, NJ | LEBANON, NJ | LINWOOD, NJ

The County Woman Magazine

1236 Brace Road • Suite A Cherry Hill, NJ 08034

856.281.1300 | gstrustco.com

www.TheCountyWoman.com

January/February 2022

Medical Professionals

Locations throughout Central and and Southern New Jersey Locations in Neptune, Toms River, Jackson, North Brunswick, Egg Harbor Twp, and Hammonton

The County Woman Magazine

www.TheCountyWoman.com

January/February 2022

Health & Wellness

New Seeds Heidi Farber

January, the head of the year, is a new beginning. Perhaps wiping the slate clean is in order. Relish the energy of renewal that comes this time of year. It brings with it a sense of opportunity. We embrace the new season with optimism.



another. Moisture pierces the seed’s skin, much to its joy. The sun bakes through the soil and sends the love inside your seed. Is the outside world invading the invading the world inside your seed? Something new is arising as elements unite and reconfigure. Is the seed co-opting its environment? Where does one thing end and another begin? Contemplation involves slowing the mind down, taking it into the breath. A natural rhythm manifests in life itself. You are down in the soil where thoughts grow, arise and pass away. The source is giving rise to ten thousand things, a microcosm of the universe. Things flow into each other and back to themselves, gaining through the other. Everything falls into place after spending time apart. It’s perfect. There is a natural balance, a dance between embracing and releasing. Turn your surrounding into yourself. Let the outer world arrive within and the inner world flow out. Put in In yoga we call this Sankalpa, a seed we sow in our conscious the effort and know when to let go. Release the boundaries. Just minds. Nurture it daily until it takes root in the subconscious. In let it go and let it in. In and out like the breath. The outside has order for it to work its magic, we begin with a steady energetic nowhere to go but in, and the inside has nowhere to go but out. internal shift in awareness. Letting go of expectations and making Your job is to broker the exchange between the two. Have faith room for space is important to the growth of the seed. Have a clear the there is a perfect home for everything inside of you as well as a view of what life is calling you to do and develop a deep faith that perfect home for everything outside of you. Use love as a guide. As it will come to fruition. This is more powerful than you know. your environment cultivates you, you cultivate your environment. Imagine what you are rather than what you want. Focus on the The miracle happens when you realize that the life in the flowers positive, not on what you are lacking. It is not born out of fear and the life in you are the same. You are never fundamentally or ego. Ask, “What is my highest potential?” Align this with the separate. We are within each other all along. The flowers take root universe and the possibilities are infinite. and blossom within occupying the same cosmos. We are never The seeds won’t take root in the Spring, if we don’t prepare more than a breath away from the entire universe. them in the winter. Begin to cultivate something within. The seed If you bring mindfulness to what you were meant to do, you needs the right circumstances to grow. By applying skillful means, will awaken your gift within. Stay open and curious as you begin nothing can prevent the plant from growing. Train the mind and your journey. It requires love and nurturing, dedication and faith to create the positive nurturing conditions for the plant to grow taller. create the conditions for you to flourish. Discover your own unique You will not be carried away by negative or positive circumstances if jewel in the web of life. Give your gift the time and energy it needs you lovingly prepare the fertile ground. to manifest your calling. It is your profound responsibility as part of Plant the seed in your imagination. Notice how the earth the order and harmony of the world that we live in. We all have the presses up against it and caresses it. The seed draws the earth power to uphold the seen and unseen order of creation. Our actions into itself. The soil offers it minerals. Seed and soil flow into one connect us with the soul of the universe.

Yoga Teacher Training January 2022

200 Hour Yoga Alliance Certification The County Woman Magazine

Hummingbird Yoga

Heidi Farber •Certified Kripalu Teacher • Teacher Training Central Square #19 • 199 New Road • Linwood, NJ 08221

ph. (609) 927.8010 • cell (609) 442.3487 www.hummingbirdyoganj.com www.TheCountyWoman.com

January/February 2022

Health & Wellness

Why Excess Body Weight is Bad for You Modern life in America, including the holidays and COVID-19, has led many people to eat more unhealthy foods, eat bigger food portions, and be less active. As a result, the number of Americans who are overweight or obese (very overweight) has been rising dramatically. The question is: “Are you carrying excess body weight? Are you heavier than you should be?” DR. NINA’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: About Excess Body Weight & Weight Loss Your battle of the bulge is multi-factorial and also includes modern life issues of: • The overuse of sugar, fat and salt in foods that entice our taste buds and excite our brain’s pleasure centers • Larger serving sizes of foods and drinks at the store, our homes, and restaurants • Increased out-of-home dining • Generally, unhealthy and cheap food options in school and work cafeterias • Prevalence of chronic stress, anxiety and depression which often leads to emotional eating. Comfort foods are aptly named because they are rich in sugar, fat and salt – giving a sense of pleasure, though temporary and fleeting…while the calories and fat stay put. • The culture of holiday overindulgence • Long-work hours and productivity demands that contribute to sedentary lifestyle, stress, unhealthy choices and unbalanced lifestyles • Insomnia impacting appetite regulation • Affordability and convenience of processed, packaged, fatty, fast-food choices • Marketing of unhealthy foods (e.g., double orders for better prices, toys with kid’s meal, and misleading merchandising with images and words like “organic and healthy,” when the product is laden with sugars and unhealthy fats). • Sedentary lifestyle which has been exacerbated by technology--computers, smart phones, tablets--at our workplace, school, and homes • Yo-yo dieting –our bodies are designed to hold onto fat. Long-term calorie restriction sends signals to the brain that triggers a craving for food. Because of the frustration of failure, many people are simply giving up on slimming down, making excess weight their accepted norm.

pound weight loss. And, if you burn 1000 more calories a day than you consume in food, that would equal a two-pound weight loss. And generally speaking, losing weight faster than that can become dangerous, either from not eating enough, or exercising too much. It is paramount to stay focused on this day, this week. Make your commitment to your best health, each day. • Steer clear from fad diets. Many of us greatly desire to lose weight, and as a result can be easily tempted by fad diets—weight loss plans that promise dramatic results. However, when it comes to losing pounds fast or other gimmicks, there is abundant truth in the saying “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.” Fad diets can range from only consuming cayenne pepper and water, grapefruit, or even the ever-popular Atkins eating plan. While these diets can help you drop several pounds quickly, for most humans, they are nearly impossible to maintain for long periods of time. As a result, their effects are short-term and fleeting when we stop them. And, too, they can also be dangerous to our health as they oftentimes fail to provide our body with essential vitamins and nutrients (malnutrition), cause intestinal issues, and can even dehydrate us. • Exercise is Important – But Not the Key to Weight Loss: Burning calories with exercise is important but cannot overcome bad choices and unhealthy eating habits. But with all the emphasis on working out to “burn off” what you eat, experts underscore you’ve missed the real problem: What you eat. The calories that are burnt in any sixty minutes of physical activity can be wiped out in just minutes with the wrong food. And people who try to lose weight by dedicating hours each day to exercise, get discouraged when the pounds don’t magically melt off. On the other hand, successfully changing what you eat and drink does help when combined with physical activity.

Weight Loss: Key factors play an important role in your ability lose weight effectively.

• Create realistic goals. Patience is a virtue, and, too, a key component of any weight loss plan. Most experts recommend a gradual and steady weight loss of ½ to 2 pounds per week. But for those who are 30 pounds overweight, the idea of a 15-60 week period before attaining that goal can be daunting, frustrating, and defeating. It is important to understand that there is good reason for this recommendation. To lose a pound of fat, it requires that you burn 3,500 calories. In a seven-day week, if you burn 500 more calories than you consume in food, that would equal a one-

Nina Radcliff, M.D.,

is a practicing physician and a Board Certified Anesthesiologist. Often called upon by media to speak to medical health topics impacting our lives today, Dr. Nina is passionate about sharing truths for healthy, balanced living as well as wide preventative measures.

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions and cannot substitute for the advice from your medical professional. Dr. Nina has used all reasonable care in compiling the current information but it may not apply to you and your symptoms. Always consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

The County Woman Magazine

www.TheCountyWoman.com

January/February 2022

Medical Professionals

If you have been told, “You are not a candidate for dental implants”, Dr. Banks can help you! Kathy A. Banks DMD, FACS Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

Your Expert in the Face, Mouth and Jaws 249 S. Main Street Barnegat , NJ Specialty Lic #4070

609-488-2325 www.drbanksoms.com Office Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM (Mon. - Fri.)

• Bone Grafting •Dental Implants • General and Intravenous Anesthesia • Jaw Pathology and Reconstuctive Jaw Surgery

The County Woman Magazine

Bill proudly served in the 11th ACR in the Vietnam Conflict. He was severely injured, and was awarded a Purple Heart. His injuries resulted in the loss of most of his upper jaw and teeth. For many years, Bill suffered wearing a partial removable denture that was loose and painful. Because it didn’t fit well, Bill was embarrassed to speak and eat in public. Somehow, Bill found his way to me. He had been told over and over there was no hope for him. He was told that he could never have dental implants, or even a better denture. I told Bill if he was willing to try, then I would try to give him dental implants and a better denture. Over a period of several years, I improved Bill’s jaw bone with bone grafting, and placed dental implants in his top jaw. Now, with the help of Bill’s general dentist, he wears a denture with special snaps that attach to the denture to his dental implants. Bill can now eat, speak and smile with confidence. Thank you for your service, Bill! Dr. Kathy A. Banks is one of the most experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Ocean County providing dental implant surgical services. With Revitalize®, or “all-on-four” treatment, old dentures, missing teeth and failing dental restorations are replaced with new teeth that are connected to dental implants at the same time the dental implants are placed into the jaws, giving patients immediate results.

www.TheCountyWoman.com

January/February 2022

Medical Professionals

Put Your Best Face Forward

Dr. Kathy A. Banks is Ocean County’s # most experienced Oral and Medical Professi Maxillofacial Surgeon in delivering injectable facial fillers and rejuvenation products.

Dr. Banks’ experience with Botox® began in the mid 1990’s while working with patients with various temporomandibular joint problems. “In those days, Botox® was not really given for cosmetic purposes, but to relax the tight chewing muscles to provide relief for patients with certain TMJ problems”, she says. Fast forward to the present day, with the significant advances in nonsurgical treatments for esthetic facial concerns, surgical modalities are now considered for some practitioners to be the “last resort” for treating the ageing face. Dr. Banks is part of a team of oral and maxillofacial surgery specialists who conceived and delivered a series of State Board of Dentistry approved educational courses for other practitioners on the safe and effective delivery of injectable pharmacologic agents. Dr. Banks provides Botox® treatments, as well as a whole array of Allergan® brand injectable fillers. A combination of these products can produce a lifting and smoothing appearance of the face. According to Dr. Banks, The upper facial rejuvenation procedure using Boxox® alone or in combination with Voluma XC® to correct lost volume in the maxillofacial region of the cheeks, Volbella XC® to plump the lips and reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the mouth, injections of Juvederm Ultra XC plus® to reduce the appearance of the nasolabial folds (marionette lines) around the mouth and nose are the most common services sought by patients. The newest Allergan® product, Vollure XC®, is a versatile formulation that adds subtle volume for the correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. According to Dr. Banks, this second generation dermal filler has truly unique qualities, making it a very effective product with results lasting about eighteen months in many patients. In addition to Botox® and the entire line up of Allergan® dermal fillers, Dr. Banks offers treatments with Kybella®, a revolutionary product for treatment of submental fullness. “This product is really amazing. It contains a powerful plant derived substance that breaks down fat cells, and they are gone for good!, she states. The treatments are given in a series of three to five sessions and the results

The County Woman Magazine

are permanent. “This product has completely replaced surgical liposuction in the area under the chin”, says Dr. Banks. If you look in the mirror, and see that you appear tired, or wrinkled, make an appointment with Dr. Banks to see what these products can do for you. Its summer! Time to put your best face forward!

www.drbanksoms.com

Kathy A. Banks, DMD, FACS Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

• Bone Grafting • Dental Implants • General and Intravenous Anesthesia • Jaw Pathology and Reconstuctive Jaw Surgery

Specialty Lic #4070

Your Expert in the Face, Mouth & Jaws 609.488.2325

249 S. Main Street • Barnegat , NJ • 8am - 5pm Mon. - Fri.

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January/February 2022 www.TheCountyWoman

Pet Services

Pets

“Unconditional Love” Animals Heal

One of the best places in the world to learn the meaning of “unconditional love” is W the Funny Rescue & Sanctuary in ritten by MFarm att Reeves Mays Landing, NJ. The love in your heart wasn’t put

Hearts

a life at all would be slim to none if it wasn’t for the

If you’ve ever had a pet, youthere have a pretty goodLove idea how much they love you and get worldwide force for good of the Funny Farm Family. to stay. isn’t love till you excited when you come home and how sad they are when you leave. Those are the lucky ones. There is no such thing as distance when it comes to give it away. Love feeds and heals Not all animals are so lucky to have someone love them. matters of the heart. You can feel the love of hearts sometimes beyond The animals at the Funny Farm Rescue are the exceptions. They what have thousands an animal from anywhere in the world through of people each year who come to anyone visit and give them the love need. Mosttoanimals expected. Thethey best way come to the farm from very difficult situations. Many were disabled, abused, injured, or interactive social media. feel make real arrangements love is to help someone else,were There is simply nothing that can make you feel unwanted. Some people simply didn’t for their pets after they animals included. gone and the animals had nowhere to go. How scary thatThe must rewards be for theseyou sweet animalsbetter than being kind to others, especially when it’s not that gave their owners so much love. easy. Good customer service doesn’t matter when there’s receive in return far exceed anything One example is a nameless little black and white baby goat with a broken leg. At lessnever a problem. The true measure of good customer in the world. than a month old, he was injured and was in a lot of pain. His future was dark. Through service a is when things go wrong. Helping an animal ts every disaster, see the bestRescue, in people. series of miracles, Laurie Zaleski, theInFounder of theyou Funny Farm found out about that can’t help themselves and seeing them survive and Neighbors helping It’s almost as if you see this little goat’s situation and didn’t waste any time neighbors. rescuing him. go on to live an amazing life, will impact your life. You angels.his It leg doesn’t matter you don’t We made a custom splint toreal stabilize because hethat couldn’t standknow on itthem. at all. He did it. You can do anything despite all odds. needed and kindness water brought tolove his mouth while he lay in a new warm bed made just for They arefood showing and true for others. When your heart is renewed, there is nothing you can’t face. Your attitude changes. It him. Farley the Farm Manager, a 1-year-old Australian Shepard, took him under his wing y in In the world of animal rescue, we regularly see animals in total desperation. At the and gave him a lot of love and attention. almost seems as if nothing can get you down. Things that once seemed unbearable in your Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary, an endless supply of visitors and volunteers give so much get The little goat was black and white and looked so much like a cow that he earned the life, now seem small. You laugh off bullies. You’re a part of something great. You know it. y ones. of their time, talents, support, and supplies. All of their efforts help give animals hope, name “Cowboy.” Over the next few days, and visits to many veterinarians, Zaleski took You feel it. food, shelter most importantly, love. What thesethey people return is something that to him to theand University of Pennsylvania, where hadget theinbest equipment. Several The Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary needs you! Miracles happen here everyday can’t be put into words. thousands of dollars were spent trying to save his leg from possible nerve damage and because of people like you! A donation, comment, gift card, a comment on FaceTube or ls When you give love to an animal in need, in return, you feel needed. The love that amputation. even a view on YouTube makes a huge difference in the lives of ess lived housecompared so he could belove cared forgave properly animalHe gives youinisthe tenfold to the you them and received much ha 600 animals in need. It all adds up! socialization with other animals and people. And because of this interaction, he has no idea he’s a goat, out especially when they need it most. This is why people everywhere he thinks he’s a dog! The Funny Farm isn’t just a place for animals to heal. It’s He become addicted to the Funny Farm. This is why visitors come back for Seven months later, not only has Cowboy’s leg healed, he has captured the hearts of people all over an inspirational story, especially for women. The owner, Laurie ng and people all over the world watch our Facebook and YouTube the globe!! He makes everyone laugh and gets into everything! He is now known as the “Donations the Zaleski, has an incredible Live Videos.When They interact usand and donate becomefood personally Inspector.” visitorswith come for theinvolved animals, they barely have time to get out of ability to do good and bring in the stories of hope, kindness, and love. They get involved andcar! their cars when they discover Cowboy is already inside their others along with her. There become something wonderful. Hepart hasofa wonderful, lovable, sweet personality and will stop at nothing to make you laugh and has dea he’s a goat, are no employees on payroll, an unlimited supply of kisses! Everyone is his friend! Somehow he knows what was done for him and he The goodness in people inspires even more goodness in people. f people all over yet hundreds of people come appreciates his life now. It spreads and there are simply no limits. Someone in South Africa “Donations to get out of The unconditional love that comes from an animal is astounding, but the unconditional love that comes from animal that andan never leave. Animals can be inspired by a story on the other side of the world. The ou laugh and has was once in distress is nothing short of miraculous! Nearly 400 of these animals at the Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary are waiting become part of their hearts goodness of the Funny Farm touches hearts everywhere. Each of e for him and he to meet you and your family!! Coming to the Farm is easy but leaving your new furry friends is very difficult. forever! tional love that comesthe from an animalanimals that 600 here are real storiesis and their likelihood of having life is precious. If there something we can do as humans to preserve and protect it, in nearly all cases, unny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary All are waiting iends is very difficult. the unconditional love you receive in return is something you will simply never forget. ect it, in nearly all cases,

e”

Photos by Matt Reeves and Laurie Zaleski Follow on Facebook: “Funny Rescue” The Funny Farm Rescue is openusSundays and Tuesdays fromFarm 8am-4pm at 6908 Railroad Blvd., Mays Landing, NJ 08330. Follow us on Facebook: The Funny Farm Rescue is open Sundays and Tuesdays from 8am-4pm at Railroad Blvd., Mays Landing, NJ 08330. “Funny Farm Rescue” There is no admission as we operate entirely by donations and we don’t have any paid positions. Come see 6908 us! www.funnyfarmrescue.org us on Facebook: to: Funny Farm There Rescue • 6908is RailRoad Mays Landing, NJ 08330. noBlvd., admission as we operate entirely by donations and we don’t have any paid positions. Come see us!Follow www.funnyfarmrescue.org For information on scheduling your next event, please contact Robin at: funnyfarmrobin@gmail.com “Funny ________________________________________ For information on scheduling your next event, please contact Laurie at: laurie@funnyfarmrescue.orgFarm Rescue” Gift Amount:

ailroad Blvd., Mays Landing, NJ 08330. itions. Come see us! www.funnyfarmrescue.org : funnyfarmrobin@gmail.com

________________________________________

To donate to the_____________ Funny Farm Rescue, fill out the below information and mail to: Funny Farm Rescue • 6908 RailRoad Blvd., Mays Landing, NJ 08330.

_ Zip:___________________________________

________________________________________ r generous donation!

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Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________ March/April 2017

Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________________

Gift Amount:

Town: _______________________________________ State: _____________ Zip:___________________________________

_____________

Phone: Email: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Thank you, in advance, for your generous donation! The TheCounty CountyWoman WomanMagazine Magazine

www.TheCountyWoman.com www.TheCountyWoman.com

March/April 2022 2017 January/February

Theatre & Entertainment

   Spring 2022



Midsummer Night’s Dream Saturday, March 26, 2022 7pm

Carmen Saturday April 23, 2022 7pm



Cinderella



Saturday, May 21, 2022 7pm

Circus Maximus Theater-Caesars Tickets available at www.acballet.org • 609-348-7201

The County Woman Magazine

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January/February 2022

Business & Finance

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Commerical Printing

935 West Avenue Ocean City, NJ 08226 Office: 609-398-7676 RPM@copiersplus.com

For more info contact: Robert Matthews 609-645-7587 • info@copiersplus.com

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with some of the country’s premier GPOs and Purchasing Alliances to bring cost savings and efficiencies to government agencies, educational institutions, non-profits, healthcare providers and faith-based organizations.

Copiers Plus proudly partners Large Format Print Equipment A large format printer from Copiers Plus will extend your in-house production with some of the country’s capabilities by producing large blueprints, design plans, technical documents and right from the convenience of your office. remier GPOs and Purchasingmore • Reduce print cycle time Get documents in the field faster Alliances to bring cost savings• and efficiencies to government agencies, educational • Eliminate production delays nstitutions,TWO non-profits, healthcare providers and faith-based organizations.NEW JERSEY INCLUDING OCEAN AND MONMOUTH COUNTIES • Produce multiple designs quickly and accurately GREAT LOCATONS SERVING ALL OF SOUTHERN Service, Support & Supplies

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TWO GREAT LOCATIONS SERVING ALL OF SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY INCLUDING OCEAN AND MONMOUTH COUNTIES TheMagazine County Woman Magazine The County Woman

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January/February 2022

Fashion & Beauty

When It Comes To Undergarments, The Right Fit Is Key! When it comes to undergarments the right fit is key; but comfort is important too and the ladies at Bra Boudoir believe that wholeheartedly. Owner Julia Mastalski has the expertise and knowledge to help you shop for those crucial foundation pieces, as well as those for special occasions. In fact, many of her clients set up a private appointment which will ensure they get the precise fit that is right for their body type. During a private appointment customers can try on lingerie, shape wear, and lounge wear. When getting your fitting at the Bra Boudoir, you will notice there is no use of measuring tape since it has been proven to be inaccurate. Julia adds, “We use a trial and error method, trying on different bras until we find out the size and style that works best for you.”Finding bras or shapewear that not only provide support, but also complement your body, is a real game changer. If you have ever gone to a department store to shop for a bra then you know how frustrating it can be. The problem is that most of these large chain stores do not train their employees in proper sizing techniques and they don’t carry the sizes many women need. Julia’s team at the Bra Boudoir has been trained in New York City by an amazing group of bra fitting experts. After fitting hundreds of women with a vast array of body and breast types, it is safe to say they know what they are talking about! Julia has witnessed the transformation that occurs when a customer leaves her boutique feeling happy and confident, all because of an amazing bra fitting. Her knowledge of garment construction and passion for helping people is evident the moment you meet her. New arrivals come in on a monthly basis so be sure and pay her a visit and stock up on all your basic needs. The Bra Boudoir also has gift certificates for sale, for that girl or woman in your life you know deserves to look and feel her best.

The County Woman Magazine

www.TheCountyWoman.com

More Than A Measurement

A charming and relaxed boutique for all of your undergarment needs.

Specializing in bra, lingerie and shape wear fittings.

• Over 100 different bra styles in sizes 28A-46O • Sticky bras and lingerie solution products • Lingerie and shape wear XS-3X • Hosiery by thigh measurement and Swimwear by bra sizes Insta

6024 Main Street • Mays Landing, NJ 08330 *Parking in the back*

www.Brafittingsnewjersey.com • 609-829-2867

Testimonial “I had the pleasure of going there today to have a fitting. I was treated so well I forgot that I was bra shopping. Not only did Julia take the time to help me, she even went above that to tell me bras can be ordered. I’m not small in the breast area by any means and shopping for bras really gets me upset. But not here. They have cute bras that made me feel sexy as a wife and woman. Thank you so much.” – Jennifer

January/February 2022

Medical Professionals

Got An Itch That Can’t Be Scratched? Nina Paonessa, DO, FACOS

As we enter the New Year, a common ailment affects many individuals. This is the time of year when people make New Year’s resolutions to eat “healthy” and diet in order to lose weight for spring break or in preparation for the summer. This is also the time of year for football season and tailgating parties and all of the foods that are associated with it. Because of these unique situations, many people suffer from aggravating symptoms of perianal itching, burning, and discomfort as well as a “wet” or moist feeling in the perianal area. What is Pruritus Ani? Pruritus ani is a Latin term literally meaning “itchy anus”. It is an uncomfortable sensation around the anus which produces the desire to scratch. Scratching causes irritation of the perianal skin which in turn causes the desire to scratch more. The skin becomes more irritated and damaged which causes the desire to scratch even more. This becomes a vicious cycle. Pruritus ani affects 1% to 5% of the population. Although it affects both men and women, it is four times as common in men. This condition is most often encountered in patients in their 40’s to 60’s. Pruritus ani is treated medically. An accurate diagnosis is mandatory for proper care.

What causes Pruritus Ani?

The symptom of pruritus or itching is common to many anorectal conditions. Disorders such as hemorrhoids, skin tags, fecal soilage and/or incontinence, anal fistulae, anal fissures and anal warts all may be associated with itching. This is termed secondary pruritus ani. However, pruritus ani may be independent of these conditions. This is called primary pruritus ani. The cause of the syndrome in these cases is usually from topical agents applied to the perianal skin and/or the pH of the stool. The pH of the stool is determined by foods which we eat. In addition to inadequate hygiene, overzealous or aggressive hygiene using irritating soaps, fragrances and lotions may cause pruritus ani. Overzealous cleaning and the use of topical steroids can destroy natural skin barriers and cause trauma to the anal skin, making the problem worse. As such, attempting to keep the perianal skin too clean, is harmful and may worsen the problem. The use of baby/toilet wipes is a common culprit for many patients suffering from pruritus. It is very important to note that there are many medical conditions that may cause perianal itching and are treated differently from basic, primary pruritus ani. There are infectious conditions such as bacterial skin infections, fungal infections, parasitic infections (pinworms or scabies) and viral infections (anal warts). Skin conditions such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and lichen sclerosus may cause secondary perianal itching. Local cancers such as Bowen’s disease or Paget’s disease are also potential causes of pruritus ani.

How is Pruritus Ani diagnosed?

In order to accurately diagnose pruritus ani, your physician will obtain a complete history and physical examination. The timing and duration of the symptoms are important factors. Toileting rituals/behaviors, stool frequency and consistency and hygiene/cleansing routines are noted in order to help make a diagnosis. Travel history, medical history and medications taken are also important. It is crucial to include any supplements taken, topical ointments/creams used and whether or not baby/toilet wipes are being used. A careful diet history is also taken in order to identify any possible contributing agents. Your doctor will perform a physical examination. This will include a careful inspection of the perianal skin and a digital rectal examination. Common findings are irritated, swollen, reddened skin that may have linear ulcerations/cracks. Sometimes the perianal skin may be thickened. An examination of the anal canal via an anoscope will also be performed in order to ensure there is not any intra anal pathology causing the symptoms such as hemorrhoids, warts, a polyp or tumor. Considering the serious

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diseases that may cause the symptoms of pruritus ani, it is very important not to selfdiagnose, but rather to seek consultation with a physician. In certain situations, a small skin biopsy may need to be performed.

How is Pruritus Ani treated?

The first goal of treatment of pruritus ani is to make a correct diagnosis. That means determining if the condition is primary pruritus ani or secondary pruritus ani caused by a medical condition/disease. Once this has been accomplished and it is confirmed that the patient has primary pruritus ani, the goal of therapy is to restore clean, dry and intact perianal skin. This will help to alleviate the symptom of itching. The first step is to alter the consistency of the stool so as to avoid seepage of stool from the anus. This may be accomplished with diet modification and adding a fiber supplement. The second step in treatment is to discontinue any offending agents such as cortisone ointments, hemorrhoid creams, lotions, perfumes, soaps and baby/toilet wipes. Topical agents containing alcohol are very irritating to the perianal skin. Likewise, any topical agent that causes the perianal skin to remain moist should be avoided. This includes Vaseline, witch hazel, A & D ointment, antibacterial ointments, etc. Additionally, it is important to remember not to over clean the perianal area. This causes further skin break down and irritation. Believe it or not, plain water is the best way to keep the perianal skin clean and healthy. Finally, the last step in treatment is to modify the diet to avoid a change in pH. Foods related to pruritus ani include: caffeine, colas, citrus, dairy, tomatoes, nuts and beer. As mentioned earlier, these foods are very common during this time of year while watching football or trying to lose weight.

Where can you find help?

Dr. Paonessa is very familiar with diagnosing and treating pruritus ani as well as all the other diseases/conditions that may be mistaken for pruritus ani. Since there are many serious diseases that may be mistaken for primary pruritus ani, it is very important to see a physician trained in treating this condition. It is incredible how a fairly simple ailment such as pruritus ani can alter a patient’s daily life and affect his/her quality of life. Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and call for a consultation. Stop suffering and begin to live life again.

Colon and Rectal Surgery

Board Certified in General Surgery and Proctology • laparoscopic surgery • abdominal/pelvic surgery • fecal incontinence • endoanal/rectal ultrasound • anorectal surgery

603 Higgins Avenue Brielle, NJ 08730

www.TheCountyWoman.com

• pelvic floor disorders • office proctology • anorectal manometry/ physiology

1301 Route 72 West, Suite 240 Manahawkin, NJ 08050

Phone: (732) 282-1500 • Fax: (732) Office Hours: M-F 9AM to 5PM

292-9600

www.paonessacrs.com January/February 2022

❄❆

Health Wellness Health &Wellness Health &&Wellness

27 53

❅

AndAgain…Should Cold Season Is Get Here— It’s That Cough Time Of Year You A Flu Shot? Ready? YouYou Need To Know ❄ What ❅ Are ❄❄ ❆

are at higher risk of developing complications from end of December and early March. You can probably The flu is a respiratory infection that’s caused by Believe it or not, cough and cold season is upon us. Our nights DRINK PLENTY OF WATER: Drinking plenty of water helps flush many different viruses. Up to one in five people get the the flu. This includes people who are 65 and older and get the vaccine starting in September. It’s best to do it are becoming very 1cold and children have been back in school germs out of your body. Water also helps keep your mucous membranes It comes on suddenly, causes pregnant women. Also, people with certain chronic as early possible you canof head flu in the U.S. each year. for about six months now. This is the season everyone dreads. It moist, allowing them to trap theasvirus andsodispose it. off any infections worse symptoms the cold andthe can sniffles be seriouseverywhere—at for medical conditions, “at the pass.” Getting the flu shot early gives your body seems we seethan people with work, atsuch theas asthma or heart disease, some people. As you know, last year, a new strain of flu would take priority. In addition, it is also important for buildtoup immunity. This means mall and even at home. Now is the time to take some steps that BREATHE FRESH time AIR:toTry breathe as much fresh itairwill as protect possible. 5 was thrown into the mix. Called swine flu at first, then those coming into close contact with these people to you better against the flu. will reduce your risk of catching a cold and stock up on things that Recycled, contaminated air can make you sick! Get outside as much as H1N1, it caused symptoms similar when to regular such get happens. vaccinated early.3 If you gotten the vaccine by December or will help with the symptoms theflu, inevitable possible. Cold air will not give youhaven’t a cold! 2 as fever, cough, aches, chills and fatigue. so, or if it hasn’t been reason, stillonce Now, if you’re pregnant, you may wonder if it is For the most part, everyone catches someavailable degreefor of some a cold at least Did getreduce a flu shot your last year? you’re someonea cold ahead andcoming get it when can. Remember that the safe to is, yes.you However, year. Once feel thego symptoms on,you then what? For starters, Youyou can riskIfof catching orget flu.a flu shot. The shorta answer who’s always thought flu shots are just for your nasal mist vaccine is only for healthy, non-pregnant this is not true if you have a severe allergy to eggs. continue the above tips. Also, cover your mouth and nose when you Here are some helpful hints: grandparents, think again. For the 2017-18 flu season, who are between 2 and 49most years importantly— old.5 That’s because the ingredients sneeze for flu shots are grown or cough (no one people else wants your germs). And WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY: This will help stop the If you do develop cough and cold symptoms, stop the Centers for Disease Controlyou andtouch Prevention (CDC)hasinside eggs. Also, you should not get a vaccine if you spread of germs. Everything potentially cold germs on it— TO WASHinYOUR FREQUENTLY. doorknobs, handrails, pens, PIN pads,getetc. Also, handhad sanitizer to see us.HANDS We can help you select the best over the now recommends that almost everyone a flu shot.keep have a severeeasily reaction to aCONTINUE flu shot in the past. There are many cough and cold medications theyou market accessible—keep it in your car and your desk at work. counter medications to helponput on thethat roadcan to That is, everyone six months and older. These changes If you’re pregnant, request the flu shot, not the nasal with yourvirus. coldThis or cough symptoms. a pill form or recovery. For moreDecongestants information, callin609-660-1111 or will simplify guidelines that have been confusing spray vaccine. It is made from help an inactivated a nasal spray can help with a stuffy nose. Antihistamines can help with REDUCE STRESS: Whenever a big day is coming up, or a deadline to many people. You should know that the new flu makes it safe for you and your baby during pregnancy. visit www.jerseyshore.pharmacy. itchy, eyes. you have rushing to meet, you are more likely toAvoid become sick. vaccine willbeen include the H1N1 strain. trying to Relax, get pregnant for fourwatery weeks after a Cough suppressants help control a nagging cough. 4 Cough drops or throat lozenges help with a sore throat. Tylenol or Motrin yourAny health is more important. Also, try to get at least eight hours of sleep shortage in vaccine supplies this season may vaccination with a nasal spray vaccine. can help any body aches or fever. Before taking any medications, please per night. slightly alter a plan to vaccinate everyone at once, So, when should you get a flu vaccine? Now is a consult your pharmacist or doctor to be sure the medication you are however. In that case, the CDC may prioritize vaccines good time to start thinking about it. Fluwith season runs buying doesn’t aggravate any existing medical conditions or interact with EAT WELL: Certain foods combat as it has in the past. It would first target people who from November to April. Most cases hit between the any current medication you are taking. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT. colds. Try to include as much of the Many over-the-counter cough and cold medications can cause adverse following as possible in your diet: If you do develop coughbroccoli, and cold symptoms, stop in to see us. Don’t be afraid to ask us, that is what we are here for. effects. cauliflower, garlic, onions, We can help you select thecitrus bestfruits, over the counter medications to help and whole grains. Some put you on the road toevidence recovery. more information, call Once you have determined which medications are safe, alsoFor exists supporting using vitamin C and Echinacea to 609-660-1111 or visit www.JerseyShorePharmacyBarnegat.com. keep some at home so that you are prepared when that cold boost your immune system. comes along.

COUPON: 20% OFF Valid for Over-the-Counter Items Only. Jersey Shore an independently owned and operated full service Expiresis12/31/18. Cannot be combined with any otherPharmacy offers. Expires 12/31/2017

pharmacy. Our pharmacists and technicians are here to answer your questions. Stop by and see what a pharmacy experience should be! MedlinePlus. “Flu.” http://www.nlm.nih.gov/ medlineplus/flu.html

Sources 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

MedlinePlus. “H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu).” http://www.nlm. nih.gov/medlineplus/h1n1fluswineflu.html Health Day. “Virtually Everyone Should Get a Flu Shot: CDC”http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/ fullstory_95735.html MayoClinic. “Seasonal flu shot in pregnancy: Is it safe?” http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/influenza/AN00651/ METHOD=print Nemours Foundation. “Is the Flu Vaccine a Good Idea for Your Family?” http://kidshealth.org/parent/general/ body/flu_vaccine.html

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For more information, call 609-660-1111 or visit WWW.JERSEYSHOREPHARMACY.COM www.jerseyshorepharmacy

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January/February 2017 2020 November/December January/February2018 2022 November/December

Community

Crossroad for Angels: Helping Survivors Overcome Their Past Eve Cortes, founder of Crossroad for Angels, strives to educate, help and inform survivors of sexual abuse and incest. Her Story When I walked into my new apartment for the first time and saw the surreal view from the window, it took my breath away. I walked out to the deck and looked out towards the ocean and watched the waves flow back and forth. I was drawn to the ocean, the sound of the waves and the seagulls as they glided by. It brought me back. Back to a place I had spent years trying to forget. As a child I had always lived by the ocean; the sounds and smells of the shore always brought me back to the abuse. I knew my brother loved me, but was this love? It started off with small things like an innocent game of playing house. I was the mom and he was the dad. “This is what mommies and daddies do,” he’d say, demonstrating with my Barbies how they should kiss and touch. Eventually the toys went away and our game of house turned into him on top of me, touching me in the living room, not uttering a word. The silence was deafening. I knew this was wrong, but he was loving me. This was love. Someone loved me. One morning I went downstairs and saw my brother in the living room, where that awful green velvet couch

was, that couch. I told him I wanted a new teddy bear. He told me that he probably couldn’t get me one on that particular day. That’s when I made my threat. If he didn’t get me the bear, I would reveal our secret to the world. He promised me he’d try. The next night, after I had fallen asleep, I woke up to screams. It was my mother crying and screaming for her son. The neighbor was over and had seen me come down the steps. She took me to her place and sat me down to tell me that my brother had killed himself. For years I blamed myself, but I have finally come to terms with the fact that this was all out of my control. One day I was watching my daughter, who, at the time, was four years old, and it hit me. I was her age when it started, and seeing how innocent and vulnerable she was helped me realize I was not at fault. I couldn’t have been, because I was once her. A million mistakes later and years of therapy have helped me heal. I still have eons of healing to do, but I am a great work in progress. I love my new apartment now. I embrace the past and have learned I cannot change it. Whenever I look out into the ocean and can see where the sky and water meet, I know there is something greater out there guiding me. What I experienced with my brother was not love, it was abuse. I know that now and the ocean no longer reminds me of the pain. It brings me hope. I have finally realized that the only way to forget was to remember...

Eve Cortes at age 4

Eve Cortes, Founder

Speaking Arrangements Are Available & FREE

Why I Share My Story Over And Over Again… • Because I know there is a young person out there considering suicide • Because there is a young child out there so afraid of reaching for help, and in need of knowing that they are not alone • Because I know that my truth can move mountains and shatter stigmas • Because there is a woman out there in an abusive relationship, accepting a partner to beat her, because she feels that she deserves a life filled with punishment, because of the guilt she lives with on a daily basis • Because there is someone out there turning to drugs or alcohol to numb their pain • Because I was once that child, and that woman #BreakTheSilence • #MeToo

Eve Cortes

Crossroadforangels.wixsite.com

(609) 626-1920

crossroadforangelsnj@gmail.com Crossroad for Angels Inc

Happy Valentine’s Day

X and O Rice Krispy Treats- A Fun Unique Craft For Kids

1. In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat. 2. Add KELLOGG’S RICE KRISPIES cereal. Stir until well coated. 3 tablespoons butter or margarine 3. Using buttered spatula or wax paper, evenly press mixture into 15 x 10 x 1-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cool slightly. Using 1 package JET-PUFFED Marshmallows cookie cutters coated with cooking spray cut into X and O shapes. Decorate with frosting and/or candies. Best if served the same day. 6 cups Kellogg’s® Rice Krispies® cereal Microwave Directions: In microwave-safe bowl heat butter and marshmallows on HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir Canned frosting or decorating gel until smooth. Follow steps 2 and 3 above. Microwave cooking times may vary. Food coloring Note: For best results, use fresh marshmallows. 1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow crème can be substituted for marshmallows. Diet, reduced Assorted candies calorie or tub margarine is not recommended. Store no more than two days at room temperature in airtight container. To freeze, place in layers separated by wax paper in airtight container. Freeze for up to 6 weeks. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

You will need:

• • • • • •

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January/February 2022

Community

“Emerald Excellence”

Celebrating 55 years of Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service! Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® is the first Greek-letter sorority established by nine Black American college educated women in 1908, led by Ethel Hedgeman as a support network for women of color. Today, there are 1,026 chapters with over 300,000 members located in the United States of America including the District of Columbia as well as chapters in Liberia, Nassau, Bahamas, St. Croix, Germany, South Korea, St. Thomas, Bermuda, Japan, Ontario, Toronto, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This year, on November 5th, 6th and 7th, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Theta Kappa Omega Chapter of the North Atlantic Region celebrated 55 years of “Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service”. When did Theta Kappa Omega Chapter come into existence? During the Fall of 1964, as a beacon mesmerized the Atlantic Ocean waves by a glistening sandy shore, twenty professionally polished Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® graduate women, scattered about Atlantic City, New Jersey and nearby vicinities commenced a group called the AKAettes. The group met at the Stanley Holmes Village in Atlantic City to organize a graduate chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. The dream materialized on November 5, 1966 when Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® chartered Theta Kappa Omega Chapter. The chapter then became the second chartered Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority graduate chapter in the State of New Jersey. The trailblazing charter members were: LaRue Almond, Lucille C. Barbour, Alberta Bridgers, Laura W. DeShields, Bessie C. Duckett, Lethetta D. Forbes, Cecelia Hawkes, Juanita J. High, Marianna G. Hunter, Dorothy F. Johnston, Mabelle Laster, Margaret Lewis, Elaine Molock, Barbara Perkins, Mildred Parks, Rachel B. Shadding, Lenora Slade, Mary C. Smith, Alice Thompson and Ella Williams. From its inception, Theta Kappa Omega has been committed to sisterhood, scholarship and service. In 1967, the innovative charter members began their “Service to All Mankind” by conducting a public meeting themed, “Service is the Key to Open Doors”. Programs and service for the remainder of the 1960’s included Miss Fashionetta Pageant, book scholarships and the “Many Faces of the African-American Woman”. The 1970’s projects included the “Ivy Ball”, NAACP Life Membership, Atlantic City Christmas Parade, a teenage drug awareness program, established book scholarships for Stockton University students, programs in senior facilities, sponsoring teenagers for the debutante cotillion, “Miss Calendar The County Woman Magazine

Girl” and “Babies on Parade”. The first annual scholarship fashion show was held Spring, 1986. In 1991 the chapter observed its 25th anniversary. The chapter sponsored an undergraduate chapter, Pi Chi, located at Stockton University in 1992. In 2010, the fashion show was renamed the “Beulah Elizabeth Burke Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show” to honor a founder, as well as her achievements while employed in Atlantic City. In 2016, the chapter celebrated their 50th anniversary. The chapter has also collaborated in program and service projects with the Rescue Mission, Food Bank, Avanzar (formerly Atlantic County Women’s Center), City of Atlantic City, Center for Family Services, Sister Jean’s Kitchen, local telethons, health awareness and education programs, mentoring programs, Model United Nations, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Programs as well as hosting Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® North Atlantic Regional Conferences, Founders’ Days and Leadership Conferences. Presently, Theta Kappa Omega Chapter is “Exemplifying Excellence Through Sustainable Service”. Under the guidelines of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Corporate Office, the chapter serves communities in Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland Counties focusing on five target areas: Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Women’s Health Care and Wellness, Building Economic Legacy, The Arts and Global Impact Days. The chapter is also committed to a college admission program that supports student efforts to enter college. The chapter has had the following presidents consecutively: Mabelle Laster, Laura W. DeShields, Cecilia Hawkes, Lethetta D. Forbes, Dorothy F. Johnston, Margaret Lewis, Jacqueline L.C. Brown, Peggy C. SmithJackson, Juanita J. High, Dianne Stalling, Theresa Corbitt-Wilson, Andrea Atkins Turner, Grace A. Burch, Courtney R. Mack and Shawn F. Phillips. Theta Kappa Omega Chapter continues to excel as it exhibits the mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. The sisterly spirit of the charter members still pervades the chapter humbly. Surely, the women who wear the salmon pink and apple green colors are women of distinction who have raised the bar professionally and broken glass ceilings by giving “SERVICE TO ALL MANKIND”. Congratulations to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Theta Kappa Omega Chapter of Atlantic City, New Jersey on their 55th Anniversary!

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January/February 2022

Women Of Atlantic County

Dr. Payal Patel

Eve Cortes Go Feet

Dr. Payal Patel is a New Jersey native and is very excited to join the private practice of Go Feet Podiatry, where she will be welcoming patients at office locations in Hammonton, Mays Landing, and Linwood. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts from Temple University in biology and completed her podiatric medical degree at Temple University. She has completed her three-year surgical residency at Virtua Health in South Jersey. Dr. Patel is board qualified with the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. She treats all ailments of the foot and ankle including simple and complex deformities, conservative and surgical intervention of traumatic injuries, forefoot and rearfoot reconstruction, minimally invasive surgery, ankle arthroscopy, diabetic limb salvage, wound care, and sports medicine. Dr. Patel has attended multiple conferences and workshops to keep her skills cutting edge. Dr. Patel enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling and interior designing. For more information, call 609-704-9001.

Shannon Brown CASA of Ocean County Shannon Brown is a realtor at Clayton & Clayton Relators in Bay Head and is happily married to her high school sweetheart, Scott Brown. They have two sons, ages six and two, which is a large part of the reason that Shannon was drawn to CASA. Shannon expressed feeling helpless knowing there were children out there that needed the stability and love that her children were able to receive. Shannon said, “The children CASA advocate for have been through so much in their lives and had a level of inconsistency that no child should. It is truly fulfilling when the child realized they can trust their CASA after seeing them consistently showing up with a smile. I look at it as a privilege to be able to be a part of their lives as well as a huge responsibility to report my findings to the court.” Last year, Shannon had the opportunity to see her CASA child be adopted by a loving family and has already begun advocating for another family. Shannon works tirelessly advocating for her CASA children and is a great role model for other CASA volunteers as well as women in general.

Crossroad For Angels Ms. Eve Cortes is an American Philanthropist, Captivating Speaker and Business-woman born in Isabella Puerto Rico. Ms. Cortes immigrated to the U.S. mainland from the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico at the age of 5. Since a very young age her parents instilled within her the importance of faith and doing the right thing. Early in her younger years she had an experience which would change her life forever. Ms. Cortes was subjected to sexual abuse by her brother and shortly after she told her brother she was going to disclose what he had done, he committed suicide at the age of 16, The emotional scars that were imprinted upon Ms. Cortes at a young age left her questioning what and why things had occurred in the way they had. She not only had to deal with the trauma of being sexually abused as a child but also had to grieve the loss of her older brother. The agony of her life experiences with her brother and her very public recantment of her story sent shockwaves throughout the family who had supported her however did not want to make public the ordeal. In 2014 Ms. Cortes after establishing herself as a successful entrepreneur owning and operating several tax offices and serving as a highly successful bilingual business woman she decided to start a foundation dedicated towards bringing awareness to children that were victims of sexual abuse named Crossroad for Angels. Since then Crossroad for Angels has cemented itself as a pillar of hope for the hopeless and a voice for all children and the adult survivors who have deep seated wounds and scars. Ms. Cortes has developed quite a reputation and caring for others is at the core of everything she does. Ms. Cortes lives in South Jersey with her children and is involved in charity work and is currently a Realtor associate as well as Ordained Minister, in her downtime Ms. Cortes enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends and walking on the seashore while looking at picturesque views of the sunset.

Briana Bee Director, Enlightened Farm, The Hansen Foundation Briana is the Director of Enlightened Farm and leads horticulture programs for clients of Enlightened Solutions, a substance use disorder (SUD) treatment center, and residents of Serenity Houses, SUD recovery housing. After receiving her BA in Political Science and Public Health from The Catholic University of America, Briana moved to Washington State and joined a social justice community where she worked with at risk populations to improve health disparities. Briana tragically lost her brother Matthew to addiction in 2017 and shortly thereafter returned home to join The Hansen Foundation. She loves fostering the healing relationship between people and nature. She is Vice President of C.R.O.P.S., a local non-profit working towards a more accessible and equitable food system. She is also team facilitator for the Food Democracy Collaborative (FDC), a think-tank that works with NJ universities and colleges that improve the food system in our state. Briana also leads the Young Adult Initiative for AC Pride, a program and outreach organization for LGBTQ Pride Month.

Photo by Tracy Harman Photography

The County Woman Magazine

www.TheCountyWoman.com

January/February 2022

Women Of Atlantic County Mikaela Crowley, PA-C

Alexa D’Amato Barrera, Esq.

Advanced Care OB/GYN

Counselor at Law, D’Amato Law Firm

Mikaela received her bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences from Stockton University in Galloway Township in May of 2018, graduating with honors. She then went on to complete her Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Thomas Jefferson University in August of 2020, graduating number one in her class and receiving awards for academic excellence. Mikaela is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and New Jersey State Society of Physician Assistants. As a south jersey native, Mikaela is passionate about providing high quality, compassionate care to women of all ages in her community. When she is not providing care for her patients, Mikaela enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going to the beach, and playing tennis. For more information, call 609272-0506.

Alexa is a Personal Injury attorney representing those injured in most types of accidents. Alexa received both the New Jersey State Bar Associations and the Atlantic County Bar Association’s Young Lawyer of the Year Award. Alexa has been recognized as a Top 40 under 40 in Atlantic County and as a top young lawyer by New Jersey Super Lawyers Rising Stars since 2008 and as a New Jersey Super Lawyer since 2013. Alexa has been a speaker and moderator for NJAJ and on the national level for AAJ. The New Jersey State Bar Association, NJESQ Magazine and the American Associate for Justice have published her writings. Alexa lives in Linwood with her husband, Alexander J. Barrera, Esquire, their three children, Paul, Massimo, and Rocco, their Goldendoodles Emme & Kelce, and two cats, Mickey and Minnie. For more information, call 609-926-3300 or visit www.damatolawfirm.com.

Photo by Donna Andrews Photography

Rhoda Kopy, CH

Dr. Mariya Rozov, DDS Aesthetic Dental Creations Dr. Mariya Rozov has a truly exceptional professional background. Prior to becoming a dentist, she worked as a scientist in biochemical and medical fields. Her resume includes helping parents fulfill their dreams of having kids via reproductive medicine, and working on projects for NASA. As a dentist, Dr. Rozov is committed to providing a high-quality compassionate general and aesthetic dental care in a warm and friendly atmosphere. She brought beautiful smiles to patients within the tri-state region. Dr. Rozov graduated with a DDS degree from New York University School of Dentistry, top ten of her class. This was followed by an extensive residency training at Wyckoff Hospital. As a result, she is highly proficient in all areas of general dentistry and has been consistently recognized by her peers for excellent bedside manner. Dr. Rozov is a member of both the American Dental Association and American Dental Society of Anesthesiology. Dr. Rozov is married to her husband Alex and has a beautiful baby girl, Eleanor. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family as well as traveling and hiking. For more information or to book an appointment please call Aesthetic Dental Creations at (732) 363-5370.

Nationally Certified Consulting Hypnotist & Wellness Coach, Founder, Hypnosis for Women Rhoda helps people break free of negative habits, and limiting fears and beliefs, as a master hypnosis practitioner and wellness coach with specialty certification in Medical and Dental Hypnotism. Building each client’s sense of calm, focus, confidence, and empowerment is the hallmark of her approach. She firmly believes that when you learn to make your mind work for you, instead of against you, anything is possible. Rhoda recently celebrated her 16th anniversary as a clinical hypnotist. Ms. Kopy’s Toms River practice, Hypnosis for Women, which she founded in 2005, serves primarily women, teens, and children, throughout the tri-state area. After studying nursing and earning a B.S. in Biomedical Communications in 1984, she worked for various organizations providing community health education and counseling services. She later segued into career services and founded A Hire Image, which offered motivational coaching, marketing, and training services. As a result of success she achieved using hypnosis to improve her life, she completed an advanced training program in 2004, parlayed her education and experience, and opened her private practice. Rhoda also co-founded Jersey Shore Hypnosis Practitioners, a peer support and networking group, and is a certified member of leading professional hypnosis organizations. Born in Bayonne and raised in North Plainfield, she has lived in Toms River for most of her life. She enjoys coordinating Bookie Babes, watercoloring, watching meteor showers, traveling with her husband, and connecting with friends and family. She has a daughter, two grandsons, and an adopted cockapoo, Gracie. Rhoda can help you determine if hypnosis and coaching are appropriate for you. She offers confidential in-person and online sessions. Call her at 732-270-0080 for a brief complimentary phone screening, and visit www.HypnoForWomen.com

Photo by Tracy Harman Photography

The County Woman Magazine

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January/February 2022

Psychiatry

It’s Depression – By Charles E. Meusburger, MD, FASAM Approximately 9.5% of American adults will have a serious depressive episode this year. Women are twice as likely to develop a depressive episode; however men and women are about even when it comes to developing Bipolar Depressive episodes. Roughly calculated, this means about 33 plus million adults in the United States alone will suffer from this very common, but oft times, overwhelming disease. For adolescents aged 12 to 17, the ratio is even higher at 11.1% or about 2.7 million adolescents will struggle with at least one episode of this serious illness. Even 3.2% of children 3 to 17 years old or about 1.9 million youngsters will be diagnosed with at least one episode of serious depression; about 38 million people of all ages this year.

According to the CDC, depression affects about 1-5% of the general elderly population with subsets of those requiring home health care to be estimated at 13.5%. About 11.5% of the elderly who are hospitalized or in a long-term care facility will be afflicted with depression as well. In total, this means that about one in four – 24% of adults 65 and older will be diagnosed with depression as well as anxiety. The highest degree of depression is experienced in the age group of 18 to 29 years old, 21%, followed by those aged 45 to 64 years old, 18.4%, those 65 and over at about 18.4% and those aged 30 to 44 at about 16.8%. Depression has increased in recent years. COVID and its confounding and compounding aspects and duration have played a significant contributory role. It is now estimated that one in three adults in the United States, or 32.8% has experienced some form of serious depression up to and including 2021 to date. Subsequently, the original estimates are increased up to 110,000,000 US adults who will experience at least one serious episode of depression during their lifetime. These astronomical numbers are similar to reading stats on war dead, COVID dead, federal deficits, natural disaster totals and any other enormous number almost too large to viscerally comprehend. Hence, the ‘glaze over’ defense and then some feigned discomfort and what’s next?

The racial and ethnic differences and disparities are multifactorial and include access to health care and insurance, financial stability, distribution of chronic comorbid medical condition(s) and predilection and education. Hispanics, especially older ones, have the highest rates of depression followed by African Americans and then Whites.

The numbers represent individual people across all ages and demographics living in personal torment that only they feel and carves them out from friends, family and co-workers to fight a formidable foe alone until they seek appropriate treatment.

The etiology, causes or reasons for this scourge are also multifactorial ---almost innumerably so. For example, age, comorbid medical condition(s), substance abuse or addictions of any kind, trauma of any kind, loss and serious unwanted change(s), persistent

Charles E. Meusburger, MD • Call 609.484.0770 or visit www.SouthJerseyPsychiatry.com. 3069 English Creek Ave., Ste. 225 • EHT, NJ 08234 The County Woman Magazine

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January/February 2022

Psychiatry

What Do You Expect?! conflict/s, unexpressed anger/rage, pernicious guilt and or shame, fear of many things such as mortality, security, health, financials, more trauma, bullying, undesirable exposure(s)/judgments by others, failure or even at times, success, lack of purpose/”failure to launch” at any age, loneliness, isolation, boredom, personality disorders, environmental matters such as war, pestilence, COVID, climate, political upheaval, injustice(s), helpless-hopeless states, neurological, organic and genetic factors, just to name a few on the spectrum of so many possibilities. The absence of the so-called softer items can certainly be contributory as well. For example, the absence of general empathy, tolerance, kindness without a hidden agenda, hence decency, acceptance, generosity of spirit and beyond, the decline of a spiritual spirit for those who are fortunate enough to possess this, civility, artful beauty, appreciation of nature and each other, anything refined and fine, values that are consistent and shared, desire to grow and become better, even manners and genuine caring, even for just peace as a goal can negatively add to depressive sources. The symptom complex that routinely presents itself oft times gradually, but progressively, has several common themes. However, like any disorder or any trauma, depression is uniquely and idiosyncratically, experienced by the given individuals just like their thumbprint. The more common symptoms may include: sadness, low energy (anergia), low motivation (amotivational), no pleasure--even in things that used to provide that (anhedonia), no interest (apathy), altered sleep patterns such as excessive or diminished sleep, and altered appetite that may include loss of appetite or binge eating, for example. Other symptoms may include impaired cognition and concentration, enormous guilt, shame or worthlessness, helpless-hopeless states that could lead to suicidal thoughts (ideation) or completion. A constellation of these must be experienced for at least a 2-week period for a diagnosis to be made. The ultimate cost of serious depression is suicide and sometimes, in combination with homicide as well. These are also the ultimate angry acts where control lost is reasserted in the extreme by acts of permanent, fulminant aggression to express rage, the pain, the sadness, the helplessness and the overwhelm. Sometimes freedom is sought via this exiting event – at least a sense of relief or release from the chains that bond them. Such a permanent choice is up to one’s beliefs as to any goals achieved. No one has ever come back or sent me a sign who’s completed this act to tell me ‘it’s fine, I’m good, it worked. Tell any of your patients to feel free to follow through with their impulses or premeditations – “come on in” – the water is fine.” It is quite a major ‘crap shoot’ at the very least with consequences that devastate those left behind as well. However, depression often demands pain relief and at all costs. It never enhances cognition, but rather makes a powerful emotional, psychological, biological and environmental state and pumps it up into hyperbolic, warp strength

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that most often yields desperation and tragic outcomes if left alone and untreated. Treatments for this prevalent and powerful disease range from psychopharmacology to various talk therapies. Antidepressants are among the most prescribed class of medications in the world—no wonder, though the latest antidepressant to be marketed was Ttintellix in 2013. Nonetheless, approximately 37 million adults in the United States or 13.2% are on antidepressants. Among the more recent psychopharmacological medications are Esketamine (Spravato), intranasal ketamine for treatment of resistant depression was marketed in 2019. Psilocybin or psychedelic medicine has recently received FDA designation as a ‘breakthrough therapy’--but is not fully FDA approved as yet; again, it’s for treatment of resistant depression. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) was FDA approved in 1978 for the treatment of depression. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) was FDA approved for treatment of resistant depression in 2008. Various talk therapies are also included in the armamentarium of interventions available to help fight depression. These therapies include: Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Insightoriented, Supportive and Psychoanalytical modalities. Each has its own niche cohort that they can assist; often in conjunction with medications or alternative methods. The annualized financial cost to treat depression and its additional consequences has an estimated $210 billion price tag---that’s billion dollar cost per annum in the United States. Only 40% of this enormous amount is associated with depression itself. Depression very commonly co-occurs with anxiety that creates a dual threat and an even more challenging disorder to remedy. Clearly the numbers are staggering and almost unbelievable. They can be published, but they represent only a portion of the problem as these numbers represent cases, i.e. people in pain. Unfortunately, the numbers of cases unreported are estimated to be likely double what we know. The numbers of patients who actually seek and receive appropriate treatment are in the 20 to 25% range and vary among age groups and racial-ethnic populations. The number of patients who improve to remission (no symptoms) regardless of the treatment(s) applied, but mostly with antidepressants range from 65 to 70%. Hence, treatment helps. An experienced, well trained professional, team, varying degrees of structured care where indicated that may include: Intensive Outpatient (IOP) treatment, or hospitals, all can be beneficial. This disease is any equal opportunity thief—even an assassin that readily afflicts everyone of all ages, sizes and colors; but it can be helped meaningfully.

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Don’t suffer alone ... January/February 2022

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January/February 2022

FabulousFFood Fabulous ood Fabulous Food

# 35 #

Springing into Fresh Vegetables Are You Making 2022 Your Healthiest Year? Crazy for Comfort Food Holiday Giving – Foodie Style

eggs are runny. Put into a preheated 375 degree oven for 5 minutes to finish cooking. As we come into the spring season and (hopefully) shake off Let rest in pan for a few minutes before slicing and serving. (Leftovers are really great for the end of winter doldrums, we are starting to think more lunch the the next day!) theseafood cooking is vegetables done in your bring the the supplies and Drain and into home, a large and bowlIand mixallwith tomatoes. Theith holidays are here! This is my favorite time of year, despite about the fresh produce that will start to pop up in our grocery the holidays approaching, thoughts naturally needed to prepare yourcheese, pre-approved, customized In a equipment food processor, combine the cottage yogurt, basil, wine andmenu any the While cold weather that comes with this festiveproduce season. Cold stores. been able to get all through SPRING CHICKEN Pumpkin Bread turnwe’ve to food, friends and“fresh” family. Here are seasonings to only add. Add to the bowl. withyou’d me.like I use freshthis ingredients purchased on the cook day, and weatheritleaves us comfort foods and nothing says comfort the winter, won’t becraving longalternatives until things grown more locally will 2 Add cups theflour pasta and mozzarella cheeseclient’s to the tastes bowl and everything prepare meals based on each andmix dietary needs.together Special some healthy to the abundance of of AND BARLEY like a great casserole followed by cookies and maybe even a cup start to be available. (Think about those wonderful greens and thoroughly. Transfer to a 2 ½ qt casserole dish that has been lightly sprayed. are no problem at all. Delicious meals are at your fingertips – 2 tspdiets cinnamon cookies that areCasseroles always around this time of year. Better hotasparagus!) chocolate! are notorious being heavy, but small Jersey That means that you’llforhave the chance to eat Sprinkle parmesan cheese top and bake, uncovered, 20-30 minutes ready to- Serves heat andover serve minutes. Meals arefordesigned with 4 thewithin SOUP 1 tsp baking soda options for can youmake andthem great for gift-giving as well! changes healthier while still you in mind, giving you the opportunity to get rid of those excess Barley is paired with fresh spring hot and bubbly. meals prepared with lots oflighter fresh and items that haven’t hadproviding to travel until 1/4 tsp baking powder the comfort that wetoallyour crave at thisHere time of year. holiday Asthis a certified Food Safety Manager, I follow strict vegetables and pounds. chicken in Healthy Apple Walnut Muffins – Makes long distances to get plate. are a12few dishes that 1/2 tsp salt Chef Steph with Cutting Board Creations is happy to prepare these and other guidelines for and sanitation with your healthCHUNK and safety FAT GINGER WHITE CHOCOLATE tasty soup. Again, feelfood free safety to mix 2 cupsinspire flour you. Don’t have the time or the desire to do all this LOW might 1 1/2cups delicious, healthy meals just for you when the demands of your schedule prevent ofsugar utmost up thebeing vegetables based importance on your 1 tspyou baking soda yourself? Contact Steph withwasCutting Board Creations and COOKIES – Aboutoil 30 from being ableChef to do so. Stephanie professionally trained at the Culinary 3/4 cup vegetable preferences. Don’t like barley? Use So cookies aren’t necessarily healthy, but in this recipe apple butter replaces 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon she’llBusiness do allAcademy, the work for you.Personal Simply heat and eat! is a Certified Chef, a Certified Food Safety Manager, 3 large eggs hearty rice, pastaHere’s or farroa tasty, instead, just soup that is good for you and will take the butter and provides another layer of flavor to a spice cookie that tastes so 1/4 tsp ground and Finalist for ginger the USPCA Personal Chef of the Year. For more information out of the winter nights. Enjoy! 1 tspchill vanilla adjust the cooking timecold appropriately. wonderful this time of year. on our services or Gift Certificates, references, and fees, contact Cutting Board VEGETABLE 1/4 tsp ground allspice 1 tablespoon cups shreddedolive freshoil pumpkin 2•3cups flour Creations, LLCnutmeg today. 1/4 tsp ground • 1/2 cup onion, finely cup toasted pumpkin seeds FRITTATA 21tsp baking soda SUPER HEALTHY VEGETABLE BARLEY 1/4 tspI salt 1/2chopped tsp salt wish each of you a wonderful– Serves holiday4-6season and Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare pans. This recipe will make one SOUP – Serves 8 chopped 1• T1/2 ground 2 eggs cupginger celery, finely Breakfast for dinner? Yup! In large loaf, or you can make multiple smaller ones. the very best for the coming year. 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 cup plus 2 T apple juice • 2 garlic clove this dish a colorful selection of the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder and salt together. 1/2Sift tsp ground cloves 1 tsp garlic, minced •In a6 separate cups chicken broth, low-fat, reduced vegetables with protein concentrate, frozen andcommitments thawed Resolutions, to get itpair done, this ISrich the 1/4 bowl, mix the sugar, vegetable oil, eggssodium and vanilla. tsp mace ½ ground c onion, chopped SHRIMP AND SCALLOPS WITH PASTA – Serves 4-6 eggs for a hearty meal. Add a salad, • 12 ounce chicken breast, boneless, skinless, cut into year that I’m going to eat better, look better, have more 2/3 cup buttermilk Combine both mixtures and fold in the shredded pumpkin and pumpkin 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1 c celery, coarsely chopped (can include leaves) A low-fat pasta dish studded with seafood and vegetables and lotsorofbrown flavor.rice or perhaps a quinoa cubes cup apple timechicken for myself, Sound familiar? Mentally you are 3/4 seeds. allbutter arespinach incorporated, pour into pans. 2 T oat 10When oz frozen 3/4 bran cup broth,etc. low sodium side, and you are ready to go! Feel 1/2 cup brown sugar • 1/3 cup pearl barley 1 14 ½ oz can for 30tomatoes minutes or until cooked throughout. (Smaller committed and strong – convinced that all the things you Bake one large loafdiced 1/2 cup onion, chopped 2 small Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and chopped free to1/2 mixcup up the vegetables based on what you like and what’s available. Just make 1 large egg 1 15 oz can navy beans (or whatever you prefer) • 1 15 oz. diced tomatoes loaves will take less time, so check!) Cool forbean 15 minutes in the pan. red bell pepper, chopped told yourself were going to happen, will. And it works too 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped 1/4 cup molasses 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables sure to2 cut them into pieces of a similar size so that they all cook consistently. garlic cloves, minced • 1 cup(s) asparagus trimmed and diagonally sliced 1/4 inch Remove and put loaf on a cooling rack to cool completely. – for a week so, and then it is far to thin fall back1 tsp vanilla Granny Smith or apple, peeled cored andtoo cuteasy into 12 extract shredded 2 cups cabbage, 8 oz fresh scallops, cut in half if •1 small 2T butter • 1cup cupsugar peas(get a coarse grain such as demerara) into the old routine. 1/3 2 cups tomato juice, low sodium for garnish too large Giving as a gift? Wrap tightly and put into a pretty basket or box. •slices, 1 onion, chopped • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaf - torn ½ lb ground beef, browned and drained (can also use ground 1 cup white chocolate chips or chunks 8 oz shrimp, shelled andsliced deveined Give with small decorative plates and a pretty knife. If this is for a coffee • Preheat 1 small zucchini, thinly oven to 375 degrees. Prepare muffin pan by spraying or lining with • 1 tablespoon orange zest We have all indulged whether as a result of the pandemic, the holidays, turkey) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 pans with parchment paper. 2 roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped lover, not give withbroth, coffeemedium andsodium coffee mugs. papers. •12 1muffin cup mushroom, sliced Heat oil in large saucepan heat;cinnamon, add onioncloves, and celery 2why cups (or both!) but to keep ourlowfat bodies as healthy as possible, now is the time to 1/2 cup cottage cheese, Combine thevegetable flour, baking over soda,low salt, ginger, maceand andcook, stirring, together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg and • Mix 1 large red bell pepper, diced until beginning to soften, 2-4 minutes. Grate or finely chop 1 clove garlic; add to the pan ½ cup barley (quick cooking) 1/2 cup plain get back onGreek track. yogurt, lowfat nutmeg; set aside. salt in a medium bowl. ½ tsp basil, dried and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add broth, chicken and • 1 cup asparagus, cut into small pieces 1/4 cup fresh basil, slivered Beat the apple butter and sugar until fluffy. Add in the egg, molasses andbarley; vanilla,bring ½ tsp parsley together eggs, apple juicehow and often buttermilk a large bowl. Stirhelp the make flour to a gentle heat until chicken through and T dry white wine • Mix ¼2tsp thyme, thetheGift of isacooked Personal While I dried can’t control you gointo the gym, I can beating well.simmer. Cover and cook over lowGive ½ tsp oregano, dried barley is tender. This may take up to 30 minutes depending on the type of barley mixture into the egg mixture until the dry ingredients are just moistened, 3 cups pasta, cooked and drained (whole grain or high fiber • 6-8 large eggs, lightly can also use egg sure that the meals youbeaten are eating(you are healthy and nutritious and you have Stir in the flour mixture until mixed. AddChef the chips andholiday stir again toseason! evenly you are this pasta, or Gluten free) 1/8 tsp cayenne (to taste) using. being careful to not overmix. Gently stir in the diced apples and nuts. extra time your schedule to do all the egg thingswhites, you want as to do. substitute or ainmixture of eggs and desired) distribute. 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, lowfat, When the barley is done, add the tomatoes and gift juice, asparagus and peas. Return to Our areon Spoon batter into the prepared pans, fillingshredded cups about 2/3 full. Garnish Shape into 1-inch balls and roll in the sugar to lightlycertificates coat. Place the balls • 2T parmesan cheese 2 T parmesan, grated simmer. Cover and cook over low heat until the asparagus is tender - 5 minutes.

with an 1apple Combine vegetables, tomato juice andabroth in a Dutch oven. always welcome surprise Asslice. a in Personal and owner Cutting Creations, I take the cookie sheet,allleaving about meat, 2 inches between. Melt T butter a large,Chef oven safe, nonstickofskillet overBoard medium heat. AddLLC, vegetables Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coarsely chopReduce the remaining garlicand clove. Gatheratbasil, orange zest anduntil garlic and Bake until lightly golden and cooked through, about 25 minutes. Transfer Bring to boil. heat, cover simmer least 45 minutes of all the menu planning, grocery shopping, packaging and thyme.care Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or untilcooking, the vegetables are and Bake for 8-10 minutes or until browned. Let on panaforunique a few minutes andcool make gift too. Inrack a large saucepan over medium heat, add the broth, onion, pepper and garlic sprinkle overare soup. to a wire completely. vegetables tender and flavors are blended. Add barley and seasonings. cleantoupcool of nutritious meals for you, leaving a kitchen that smells great cooked through. before transferring to a rack to cool completely. and cook for 3 minutes, uncovered. Add the scallops and shrimp, stir and cook Simmer an additional 15 minutes or until barley is cooked and tender. and abowl, refrigerator fullcheese. of delicious, In a medium combineand thefreezer eggs and Set aside.home-made meals. All 2 minutes more or until themuffins shrimp and scallops are just barely cooked through. Giving as a gift? Place in a pretty basket lined with a cloth Melt the remaining 1 T of butter in the skillet with the vegetables, turning to coat the For more information, call 609-841-8567 napkin. Tie cinnamon sticks around a decorative andthe include a jar of vegetables thoroughly. Turn the information, heat on the pan down tospoon low. Pour egg mixture over Visit www.cuttingboardcreations.com For more call 609-841-8567 or visitwww.cuttingboardcreations.com. www.cuttingboardcreations.com. For more information, call 609-841-8567 or or visit preserves. visit www.cuttingboardcreations.com. the vegetables and cook without stirring, for 10-15 minutes or until only the top of the

Stephanie Hopkins

Cutting Board

Creations

Certified Personal Chef

(609) 841-8567 LLC

Personal Chef Service

“In your kitchen for a dayYour dinner worries melt away!”

www.cuttingboardcreations.com chefsteph@cuttingboardcreations.com

Celebrating 16 YYears Celebrating 18 of 13 Celebrating Years of Celebrating12 15 Years ears of Delighting our Clients! Delighting Our Clients! Delightingour ourClients! Clients! Delighting

Stephanie was professionally Chef Stephwas with Cutting Board Stephanie professionally Stephanie was trained at the Culinary Business Creations is happy to prepare these trained at the Culinary Business professionally trained at the and other delicious, healthy meals Academy, is a Certified Academy, a Certified Culinary isBusiness Academy, just for you Chef, when the of Personal Chef, ademands CertifiedFood Food Personal aPersonal Certified is schedule a Certified Chef, your prevent you from Safety Manager, andFinalist Finalist Safety Manager, and a Certified Safety for being able to doFood so. Personal Stephanie for the USPCA Chef the professionally USPCA Personal Chef of the and Finalist for the wasManager, trained at the of the Year in 2012 and 2013. Year. Services are provided on USPCA Personal Chefis of Culinary Business Academy, a the Services are on a first a Year first come, firstprovided served basis Certified Personal Chef, a Certified in 2012 and 2013. first basis and andcome, there areserved no contracts – Food Safety Manager, and Finalist For more information there are no contracts – ever! for the our USPCA Personal of on ever! For more information on services orChef Gift For more information on our the Year. For more information on our services or Gift Certificates, Certificates, references, and services or Gift Certificates, our services or Gift Certificates, references, and fees, contact fees, contact Board references, andCutting fees, references, and fees, contactLLC Cutting Board Creations, Stephanie Hopkins Stephanie Hopkins Creations, LLC today! BoardCutting Creations, LLC today. contact Board Stephanie StephanieHopkins Hopkins Cutting today. Certified Personal Chef Certified Personal Chef Certified CertifiedPersonal PersonalChef Chef Creations, LLC today.

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The County Woman Magazine

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November/December 2016

Community

St. Francis Counseling Service Sexual Abuse & Assault Prevention Program

Are you interested in supporting survivors of sexual violence? Our no cost 40-hour training will certify you to advocate for people who have experienced sexual violence. Once trained, you will be on call to provide crisis intervention, educational information, and resources to survivors. All potential advocates encouraged to apply. Bilingual advocates needed.

Location to be determined. To apply and schedule an interview, please contact Delaney Cronin at dcronin@stfrancislbi.org or 609-494-1554

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January/February 2022

Travel ravel “Create Lasting Memories” Travel # River Cruising: An Extraordinary “Create Lasting Memories” Travel Taking With A Packing More fun, more memories! PartIt of raising a family You: is making memories that

FAMILY VACATIONS STARRING ROMANCE TRAVEL THE “KIDS” 55 63

37 Experience Primer Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape or celebrating an anniversary or wedding, a travel expert can create a carefully of tailoredTravel itinerary to suitAdvisors your desires. Discover a tropical The Value iver cruising may be the hottest cruising paradise and surround yourself with remarkable sunsets, fine dining, and world class accommodations.

your children will cherish forever. A family vacation is part of those memories.

Today’s opportunities to travel as a family arebooked as wideyour open as your imaginaYou’ve tion. From warm beaches to excitinglong adventures, destination offers a new awaitedevery vacation trend around in 2017 -even though river A sample of some withRomantic your Traveldestinations will let you dream of your next escape. experience.

Knowledge, Collaboration, Connections, and More cruises have been operating for decades.

Professional andand you’re We have some suggested kid’s focused resorts destinations with ready to pack your , each with its own personality, special activities andhave amenities thatgame the entire family will enjoy: Cruise lines upped their with expanded

 Six Hawaiian Islands

suitcase. surrounded by blue waters, and where happiness is a way of life. Top choices

amenities and intriguing itineraries to the places Now big ocean-going question is: are Kauai, Maui, and Big Island. BLUFF, ANTIGUA feels both country-club and cozy at the same vessels can’t reach. ✿ RiverCURTAIN cruises are luring experienced What do you take ocean cruisers off the mega-ships andyou? onto intimate time. This charming resort with an Alain Ducasse-trained for wonderful dining has Ocean views 70 T ravel with If you’re cruisingchef in the Caribbean 00 T ravel riverboats with focus onevery current themes. from room, Watersports including diving and waterskiing, a game room and the Ceebee Kids With so many new fees and

Travel 2022

restrictions the airlines have to a• turquoise The beach beautiful leading Caribbean Sea.poncho, and zippered plastic bags The river cruisingClub. destinations, like isa 12-day Bordeaux Lightweight sweater, rain T ravel 56 villages, stunning beaches, accentuated by whitewashed buildings. imposed for baggage, you will have to consider leaving your entire closet River cruise, or 7-day Danube, offer cruise guests the local for wet suits. at home from now on.without Some airlines are charging carry-on bagsApril’s now, 55 Travel ravel experience the long tour busforrides. From • Whatever you forget you can purchase on board or at63 the and other airlines let you board first “Create if you have noLasting carry-on bags.Memories” So was what created to be the ultimate get ✿ BEACHES, TURKS & CAICOS tulips December’s Markets, hundreds of “Create Memories” ports or resorts. ofto world’s Christmas countries areLasting open to travelers are theMost essentials tothe pack? Moreisfun, more memories! Part of raising aThe family is making memories that beaches together getaway, where everything Included and unlimited. white sand and barges glide along Europe’s historic rivers Aprotected few years from now what from United States, but as variants — including Here isriverboats athe packing primer from Carole Kaiman, Travel Professional that Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape or celebrating an anniversary or wedding, beaches and great your children will cherish forever. ,Awith familybeautiful vacation is part of those memories. (rated theand best in the Caribbean by Travel & Leisure) exciting watersports and unlimited scuba diving youExamples will remember is the totalyour canals, which variant span thousands miles of Continental of some of the best a of travel expert can aare carefully to suit desires. Discover a tropical might help with the process. the new Omicron —opportunities cause coronavirus Today’s to travel as create a family as widetailored open as itinerary your imaginaYou’ve booked your restaurants to rekindle your spirit and feed the soul. experience of your vacation, NOT iverand cruising may be the hottest cruising (for certified divers). waterways, connecting North Sea to Black Sea. paradise surround yourself with remarkable sunsets, fine dining, and world cases to rise, some places have restrictions tion. From warmresumed beaches to exciting adventures, every destination offersLine a new Themes: class accommodations. River Cruise • Add a few morewith tee shirts andfishing another pair of shorts  Greece, think Santorini or Mykonos small

FAMILY VACATIONS STARRING ROMANCE TRAVEL THE “KIDS” RiverTaking Cruising: An You: Extraordinary It With A Packing Experience Primer  Barbados

R  Italy

awaited vacation trend around inlong 2017 --the even though river to pack. things you forgot

Aand sample of destinations let you next escape. are about children. Amazing waterparks withTravel body slides,River lazywill rivers anddream surf of your withRomantic your ForBEACHES a week inresorts the River Caribbean: like pre-arrival testing, quarantine even travel A Europe Cruiseexperience. is one of the best ways wesome • Viking Cruises, through partnership with cruises have been operating for decades. *Remember, your Vagabond* Professional andand you’re We have some suggested kid’s focused resorts destinations with simulator are a favorite of the kids. The Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street and the XBOX play • 2 bans. swimsuits know to explore inland Europe, visiting cities, townsready and to pack PBSTravel “Downton Viking cruise guests Virtuoso Professional your  lines Six Hawaiian Islands ,enjoy: each with Abby” its can own offers personality, where in a private chapel in Florence’s counspecial activities and amenities that the entire family will Cruise have upped their game with expanded (put As 1 in your carry-on so you can go right to the beach) lounges are so popular with children and families. 19 Specialty restaurants and children’s dining areas provide great choices. villages that traditional big ships usually can’tbyaccess. of this writing, The United States has tightened testing suitcase. 3youdays in England and special tour in planning vacation surrounded blueitswaters, andassist where happiness is aaway ofCountryside, life. Top choices amenities and intriguing itineraries to places ocean-going tryside you can renew your vows and have a candlelit Dinner over the Arno River. Now the big question is: • 2 cover-ups are Kauai, Maui, and BigareIsland. It willrequirements be a great family for allvacation travelers memory. entering the country — including with the mostfamous value andhouse. addedfeels both country-club and cozy at the same of the ✿ CURTAIN BLUFF, ANTIGUA vessels can’t reach. River cruises experienced Whatluring do you take (1 with sleeves for evenings dining onocean the beachoffAmericans. &the 1 mega-ships Pareo) touches to your experience afor wonderful cruisers andyou? onto intimate time. This charming resort an make AlainWaterways dining has Ocean views returning They •with Avalon “Austrian Highlights” from with IfDucasse-trained you’re cruisingchef in the Caribbean riverboats with focus on current themes. from every room, Watersports including diving and waterskiing, a game room and the Ceebee Kids memorable one.•to With so many new fees and • Yoga pants and 2 tank tops Add a few morewith tee shirts andfishing anotherapair of shorts must now provide negative Vienna highlighting Beer theme. the Greece ,airlines think Santorini orMunich Mykonos small ✿ DISNEY CRUISE ships were built with families in A deluxe family Ocean view restrictions themind. have Club. The beach is beautiful leading to a• turquoise Caribbean Sea. The river cruising destinations, like a 12-day Bordeaux , “Jewel of the Atlantic,” Our dedication to our clients before, during and after everybags vacation Lightweight sweater, rain poncho, and zippered plastic • 2 shorts and 2 tees travelersimposed Prospective mayfor be confused about two aspects of working with a Virtuoso advisor: tests taken within oneoffer day ofyourguests stunning beaches, accentuated by whitewashed buildings. baggage, youorwill haveDanube, tovillages, consider leaving entire closet • Tauck offers family river cruises with its Tauck River cruise, 7-day cruise the local for wet suits. stateroom with Verandah is perfect forfrom a beautiful family of 4airlines or 5. There’s amakes 3 story AquaDunk body slide for kids a beaches world of difference. • What exactly is Virtuoso? weather, pink sand at enjoy home now on.without Some are charging for carry-on bags now, • 3 sundresses departure. experience the long tour bus rides. From April’s •program, Whatever you forget you can purchase on cooking board or at the Bridges including family and other airlines letthere’s you board first if AquaLab you have noCAICOS carry-on bags. So was what created ✿ BEACHES, TURKS & to be the ultimate get • fear people still use advisors? with no onflops, deck, ortravel for the younger set, the with a looping waterslide. tulips to December’s Christmas Markets, hundreds of • SHOES: Flip flat sandals, wedges, sneakers ports or resorts. warm friendly people. Conde’ Nast Traveler just returned areand the essentials toHaving pack? lessons. getaway, where everything is Included and unlimited. The white sand beaches Virtuoso is a global luxurytogether travel network; consists of advisors (and their parent agencies), hotels, resorts, cruise lines, and Enjoy Your Travel Experience. anditbarges glide along Europe’s historic rivers Aprotected fewor years from now what Here isriverboats a packingcruises primer fromwith Carole Kaiman, Travel Professional thatbeautiful Disney destinations vary from Caribbean Disney’s own private island cruising Europe  Barbados , with beaches and great • Pashmina from a small ship cruise in (rated the best in the Caribbean by Travel & Leisure) exciting watersports and unlimited scuba diving Readers have voted Bermuda “Best Island in the Caribbean” 17 times! tour companies. Ultimately,might the help goal oftheeveryone to make your travel experience special. youExamples will rememberof is the total of the best and canals, which spaninvolved thousands ofis miles of Continental some with process. There are several brand new River cruise restaurants to rekindle your spirit and feed the soul. experience of your vacation, NOT • Sunglasses (for to certified divers). with special highlights the kids enjoy. waterways, connecting North Sea to Black Sea. The Internet didfor make it easier to book your own travel, but itYour also created a ton of information overload. Travellines advisors Vagabond Travel Virtuoso Advisor the Caribbean, I’ve found River Cruise Line Themes: the things you forgot to pack. BEACHES resorts are about children. Amazing waterparks with body slides, lazy rivers and surf entering the market such as Emerald Waterways shifted from more transactional (booking tickets and rooms for you) to transformative (working with you to plan the best For a week in the Caribbean: • Packable sun hat and foldable beach bag A Travel Professional with years ofofexpertise work for you, A Europe River Cruise is one the bestFor ways over wewill25 • Viking River Cruises, through partnership with years, there are so many different *Remember, your Vagabond* simulator are a favorite of the kids. The Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street and the XBOX play • 2 swimsuits experience possible for you and your family). They help you cutcities, through the clutter. know to explore inland Europe, visiting townsresorts, and PBSTravel “Downton Abby” Viking cruise and Scenic cruises to fill the demand. Eachguests line Virtuoso Professional can The options go on towith Mexican all-inclusive exciting travel to offers • Costume jewelry, (leave the real jewels home) ships Italy where in a private chapel in Florence’s counher only objective is to give you the best experience possible and protocols from different (put 1 in your carry-on so you can goand right to the beach) Carole Kaiman lounges are so popular children families. 19properties, Specialty restaurants dining areas provide great choices. villages that traditional big usually can’t access. And and remember: Virtuoso advisors have first-hand knowledge of tour companies, cruise lines, and more. Often, the 3youdays inchildren’s England Countryside, and special tour assist inand planning a vacation trysideto you can renew your vows and have aand candlelit the and Arno River. has its highlights, such as theDinner longover ships the andperson an evening purse 2Africa cover-ups will be a islands, great vacation memory. withsummer the mostfamous value added pays a benefit back to you South forfamily families, Alaska tours (Perfect for vacation) it’s ofThat the house. they’re working withIt•to plan your trip is important someone they’ve known for years. relationship to help you realize your romantic dreams. Vagabond Travel (1 with sleeves for evenings dining on the beach & 1 Pareo) touches to make your experience a next generation Space-Ships. • Avalon Waterways “Austrian Highlights” from Must as Haves: a traveler. have the updated and •fabulous Tauck tours of Europe. memorable one.to Munich highlighting a Beer theme. Yoga pants and 2 tankmost tops Vienna ✿ DISNEY CRUISE were built with families in mind. A deluxe Ocean view • Insect Repellent, Sun Protection at SPF) ships It’s a great new cruising experience! *Check out Bermuda , the “Jewel of the Atlantic,” Our dedication tofamily our clients before, during and after every vacation • 2(with shorts andleast 2 tees 30 information. • Tauck offers family river cruises with its Tauck stateroom with Verandah is perfect for a family of 4 or 5. There’s a 3 story AquaDunk body slide for kids Start your unforgettable vacation by contacting Travel Advisor & Romance Specialist makes a world of difference. enjoy beautiful weather, pink sand beaches • 3 sundresses • Facial and bodybe moisturizer If you’d interested in working with an advisor on your next trip(s), please contact us at www.virtuosolife.com Bridges program, including family cooking When you are ready to travel, the best course ofAdvisor actionatisCarole to findKaiman, a Virtuoso Start your unforgettable vacation by contacting Travel at Vagabond Contact Carole Kaiman Vagabond Travel with no fear onflops, deck, or for the younger set, there’s the AquaLab with a looping waterslide. • SHOES: Flip flat sandals, wedges, sneakers and warm friendly people. Conde’ Nast Traveler lessons. • Make up Bag: waterproof mascara, eyeliner, Carole Kaiman at Vagabond Travel, awith Virtuoso Agency in Silver, today! Enjoy Your Travel Experience. for our Digital Magazine carole@vagabondtvl.com or 732-859-5513 or 732-842-2600. Travel Advisor, toCaribbean guide you through the entire process. AnLittle Advisor can assist you in Disney destinations vary from cruises Disney’s own private island cruising Europe • Pashmina Virtuoso Agency for latest information and Readers have voted Bermuda “Best Island in the Caribbean” 17or times! 732-222-2792 or 732-842-2600. Travel, a Virtuoso Agency in Little Silver today. There are several brand new River cruise lines hair conditioner and shampoo with • Sunglasses special highlights for the kids to enjoy. Yourcreating Vagabond Virtuoso Advisor some amazing travel ideas. creating itineraries tailoredCreate toand your interests, aTravel memorable travel experience. amenities. 732-222-2792 or will lifetime. thethat market such as last Emeralda Waterways • Packable sun732-842-2600. hat and foldable beach bag memories A Travel Professional with years of memories expertise will work forayou, Create thatentering will last lifetime.

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For over 25 years,

andresorts, Scenic cruises to fill the go to you Mexican all-inclusive exciting travel to demand. Each line • Costume jewelry, (leave realoptions jewelsishome) and her onlytheThe objective to on give the best experience possible and Carole Kaiman has its highlights, such as the and an evening purse South Africa for families, Alaska tours (Perfect forTravel summer vacation) long ships and the to help you realize your romantic dreams. Vagabond next generation Space-Ships. Must Haves: and fabulous Tauck tours of Europe. • Insect Repellent, Sun Protection (with at least 30 SPF) It’s a great *Check out new cruising experience! Start your unforgettable vacation by contacting Travel Advisor & Romance Specialist • Facial and body moisturizer Start your unforgettable vacation www.virtuosolife.com byContact contacting TravelKaiman AdvisoratCarole Kaiman, at Vagabond Carole Vagabond Travel • Make up Bag: waterproof eyeliner, Carolemascara, Kaiman at Vagabond Travel, a Virtuoso Agency in Little Silver, today! for our Digital Magazine Over Virtuoso Agency732-222-2792 for latest information and25 Years or 732-842-2600. Travel, a Virtuoso Agency in Little Silver today. hair conditioner and shampoo and some amazing travel ideas.

Carole Kaiman, Travel Specialist Vagabond Travel Virtuoso Agency 542 Prospect Ave. Little LittleSilver, Silver New NewJersey Jersey07739 07739

amenities. 732-222-2792 or 732-842-2600. Create memories that will last a lifetime. Create memories that will last a lifetime.

*Check out www.virtuosolife.com *Check out www.virtuosolife.com for our Digital Magazine and some foramazing our Digital Magazineand some travel ideas. amazing travel ideas.

The County Woman Magazine

The County Woman Magazine e County Woman Magazine The County Woman Magazine The County Woman Magazine e County Woman Magazine

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Carole Kaiman, Travel Specialist 732-859-5513 732-222-2792 Direct Vagabond Travel Virtuoso Agency 732-842-2600 Office 542 Prospect Ave.

Over 25 Years

Little LittleSilver, Silver New NewJersey Jersey07739 07739 website: www.vagabondtvl.com 732-222-2792 Direct

732-842-2600 Office

November/December 2016 May/June2022 2014 2014 November/December May/June 2014 2015 January/February www.vagabondtvl.com January/February

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website:

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January/February 2021

Women’s History

Pintrest.com.

“Healthy Mind, Healthy Heart” and motherhood. What is quite amazing about Brené Brown is that she has amazing A new year and a new opportunity to determination. She is resilient and a true heroin in her ability to put words into what “reinvent” oneself. A reinvention looks different many of us experience but just cannot find the way to express ourselves. Although Brené in each of us. I am sure that over the past year may not consider herself a famous woman in history she is changing the wellness of world we have all participated in making history on some level such as an unknown impact we may through one book at a time. In fact, Brené could not obtain a publisher for her first book in 2004 so have had on a family member, friend and even she self- published the book after borrowing money a coworker. to do so. Three years later, the After navigating through another book was purchased by Penguin year of adaptation from COVID-19 Brenebrownfacebook.com. books. In 2010 during a Ted Talk I am confident to say that we start the new year a changed society. on the subject of vulnerability One benefit out of our COVID world is greater awareness Brené unveiled The Gifts of of mental health. Depression, Anxiety and suicide have been Quotefancy.com Imperfection. I believe that The conversations in the forefront of topics that have affected children Gifts of Imperfection is a book that as young as 11 and adults well into their 80s. However, for many can have an impact on a person regardless of age or gender and I highly who are shamed from the stigma attached to a “diagnosis” they recommend that it gets read over and over as every new stage of life continue to quietly suffer alone. When an individual is weighted demands a different “you” and the book’s impact will have different down with stressors it not only has an impact on their mental meaning throughout your lifetime. When we are weighted by mental health but also their physical health, and, generally speaking, this illness we experience fear of rejection from society, we are ashamed toxicity can affect their heart. Case in point, in the movie The Hellolovelystudio.com. of our “uniqueness” and typically the consequence of many of our Grinch starring Jim Carrey, the Grinch lives a life in isolation with behaviors end in guilt. Brené conveys through her literary talent and well his emotional support dog, Max carrying the weight of anger and researched publications that people are not alone. Further, it is not selfish depression for the way in which he was abandoned and mistreated to be self- compassionate and the importance of “cultivating” laughter is throughout his childhood. However, an unexpected turn of events at the forefront of our overall wellness. It can be a difficult task to “feel” transform the Grinch when he encounters Cindy Lou Who. The happy when a person has endeavored illness, loss and feeling stuck. I impact of this innocent and beautiful child who cares for “Mr. would even stretch to say that if you met a person today who says they Grinch” shows Mr. Grinch that kindness can have an big impact are happy, they may just be an outlier which is disheartening. COVID on one’s physical and emotional wellbeing. If you have never seen Bookriot.com. changed the world and took over control our well-being. As goals are the movie, Mr. Grinch is overcome by the kindness and generosity set for the new year, I challenge readers to take their lives back. Shift your by not only Cindy Lou but also the town of Whoville. Mr. Grinch focus on being present in the moment. Schedule your wellness appointments becomes awkwardly emotional and hysterical through good old to take care of YOU. Do not be afraid or intimidated to dig deep and pull fashion laughter. The Grinch’s heart grows and he opens himself up to out the laughter that has been hibernating within you. Remember to sing vulnerability by facing his fears and allows himself to experience the out loud, and dance until you sweat! Most of all allow yourself to embrace feeling of happiness. positive emotions without guilt. Happy New You! In order for positive change to happen in our lives we need to Womenscenter.unc.edu. allow ourselves to be vulnerable. For many this can be paralyzing. One Rita King, LCSW is a mental health clinician of my favorite authors, Brené Brown wrote “The Gifts of Imperfection, Let Go of Who providing psychotherapy services to adults and You Think You’re Supposed to be and Embrace Who You Are.” The book is an amazing children. Rita has worked with individuals with read and outlines what are referred to as Guideposts. These include topics of courage, compassion and connection and letting go of fear, shame and guilt. Brené is not your mental illness in the community mental health typical scholar, born in 1965 in San Antonio, Texas she is the oldest of four children. Brené setting, criminal justice system and private graduated high school and began a 12 year journey to complete a bachelor’s degree in social practice setting. Rita is a “De-escalation for work. Brené continued on to obtain her Master’s Individuals with Special Needs” training facilitator degree in Social work and approximately 6 years and has trained approximately 1,200 law later obtained her Phd. Brené has lived through a enforcement professionals to date. Rita is also a CIT trained great deal in her life from substance use which is mental health professional. Rita has a strong passion for women’s openly shared in her book during graduate school, history and in her free time she continues to raise awareness of the and a lengthy academic history that included importance of women’s history through lectures and community transferring colleges, time off in between, marriage speaking engagements. Popsugar.com.

The County Woman Magazine

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January/February 2022

Family Portraits Headshots Family Portraits& & Headshots

6739

Donna Andrews Photography How Professional Are You?

In a digital era where we are inundated by imagery, it is more important than ever to have your visual representation of your business be the best it can be. Literally, making sure you put your best face forward. That is why having an updated professional headshot is so important. People’s attention span is very short and they tend to judge whether they want to do business with you in a matter of seconds. In today’s climate it is vital to create a visual brand of not just your business but of yourself. You need to focus on creating the image that best fits the message you want to convey. Donna Andrews spends the necessary time with each of her clients to make sure their image portrays a message that stand out as approachable, friendly and professional in this competitive world.

For a limited time only, professional headshot photo sessions with one retouched file only $75.00. For office or group discounts, please call for special discounted pricing. Offer good for 30 days. www.donnaandrewsphotography.com donnaandrewsphotography@comcast.net mobile: 609.412.5123 studio: 609.646.5374

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January/February 2018 January/February 2022

Give Your Family the Gift of a Beautiful Smile!

Happy New Year!

Welcome to our practice!

We take great pride in the dental services that we provide to our many wonderful, loyal patients. Our staff strives to create long, trusting relationships with all of the patients who are under our delicate care each and every day.

Dr. Ali Eslami graduated NYU Dental School in 1996 after initially attending University of Maryland. He then did one year of GPR Residency at UMDNJ. Dr. Eslami bought his office in 1999 and has since been practicing. He has accomplished many goals in the past 20 years, most importantly including the large sum of satisfied and loyal patients he has accumulated. He and his friendly, knowledgable staff are dedicated to all patients whom put their trust into them each and every day!

All work is performed by the Dentist himself. Dr. Eslami caters to the individual needs of each patient that entrusts him with their oral health. His practice specializes in:

• Exams, Cleanings, X-rays, Cavity Prevention, Fluoride treatments • Root Canals, Crowns, Fillings, Extractions • Cosmetic Dentistry, Implant restorations, Dentures, teeth whitening • Periodontal Treatments • Family Oriented, Child Friendly (3+) • Emergency services as needed

- We accept a wide variety of private insurances and select State insurance!

Whitening System $

20000

Includes a Custom Whitening Tray Not valid with any other offers. Expires 2/28/22.

Routine Dental Exam $

10000

Includes Check Up, Cleaning and Two X-rays Not valid with any other offers. Expires 2/28/22.

A beautiful smile can change your life! Washington Township Location

123 Egg Harbor Rd., Suite 200, Sewell, NJ 08080

856-227-1142

Galloway Twp. & Shore Points

2106 New Road, Suite C-2, Linwood, NJ 08221

856-227-1142

Email: turnersvillefamilydentistry@outlook.com • www.familygeneraldentistry.com HOURS: Monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM in Washington Township Tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM in Washington Township

The County Woman Magazine

Wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM in Washington Township with Dr. Eslami Thursday 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM in Linwood wth Dr. Eslami Friday 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM with Dr. Eslami

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January/February 2022

Atlantic County Woman - January/February 2022

Articles inside

Donna Andrews Photography

Vagabond Travel Agency

Cutting Board Creations LLC

Charles Meusburger, MD......................................32

Paonessa Colon and Rectal Surgery, PC

Women of Atlantic County............30

Jersey Shore Pharmacy

The Bra Boudoir

Funny Farm Rescue

Enlightened Solutions

Russell & Marinucci

Go Feet: Dr. Stuart W. Honick

Garden State Trust Company

D’Amato Law Firm

Atlantic Medical Imaging

Advanced Care Ob/Gyn Infertility

Meet the Production Manager................................. 8