WJ Washington Vol 51/Issue 2 by Washington Women's Journal

Washington

A Lifestyle Magazine

COMPLIMENTARY Volume 51 Issue 2

omen’s ournal

Take a Cooking Class ...It’s Fun!

2Green FORKS Free Home Security System Act Now!

Next Day installs based on avaliabilty 1(866)730-0545 Heart Disease doesn’t Care What YOU Wear

Volume 51 issue 2

omen’s ournal COMMUNITY

02 - 15 HEALTH & WELLNESS 16 - 28 29 - 40

BUSINESS & ADS

With over 32 years of experience, The Women’s Journal is a brand you can trust. It is a primary resource for women. Each edition is published bi-monthly and distributed free of charge. You can find a copy of the journal where savvy women shop. The journal also has subscribers that pay to have the journal delivered to their home or business.

PUBLISHER Butterfly Media Inc.

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Food for Thought: Cooking for Your Heart

early one-third of adults have high LDL-cholesterol levels, which is also known as bad cholesterol, a key risk factor for heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And, unfortunately, about 70 percent of adults with high LDL-cholesterol don’t have the condition under control. For the many people working to manage their cholesterol levels with the help of their diet, including corn oil may provide important heart-health benefits. Recent research in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology shows that a diet with corn oil, like Mazola, helps lower LDL-cholesterol and total cholesterol more than extra virgin olive oil. Additionally, corn oil has four times more cholesterol-blocking plant sterols than olive oil and 40 percent more than canola oil. Plant sterols are plant-based compounds naturally present in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, cereals, legumes

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and vegetable oils. When consumed as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, plant sterols can help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the gut, which, in turn, can lower LDL-cholesterol. And, when it comes to heart health, the type of fat in the diet matters. In fact, in the newly released 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the emphasis is no longer on eating a low-fat diet but instead choosing quality fats. This includes replacing saturated fats that are known to contribute to heart disease with unsaturated fats, including polyunsaturated fats, like those in Mazola Corn Oil. Corn oil has more than five times the amount of polyunsaturated fats compared to olive oil. Replacing saturated fat with heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats can reduce the risk of heart disease. What’s more, corn oil’s neutral taste complements the natural flavors of foods, making it perfect for stir-frying, sautéing, grilling and even baking. Get more delicious recipes at Mazola.com.■

Warm Tomato & Kale Pasta Yield: 8 servings / Prep Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients 12 ounces uncooked whole grain rotini pasta 2 tablespoons Mazola Corn Oil 1/3 cup chopped onion 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 2 cups chopped kale 1/2 cup no-salt or reduced sodium vegetable broth 1/4 cup lime juice 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon garlic salt 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro Instructions Cook and drain pasta according to package directions. Set aside. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add onion; cook and stir until tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, kale, vegetable broth, lime juice, chili powder, garlic salt and crushed red pepper. Cook 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Combine hot pasta, tomato mixture, feta cheese and cilantro in a large serving bowl. Toss lightly and serve.■ April - May 2016

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Quinoa & Sweet Potato Chili Yield: 3 quarts / Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients 1 tablespoon Mazola Corn Oil 1 cup chopped onions 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced 3 tablespoons chili powder 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 quart unsalted chicken OR vegetable broth 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 teaspoons minced garlic 2 cans (15 ounces each) no salt added diced tomatoes 1/2 cup quinoa 1 can (15 ounces) no salt added OR reduced salt

black beans, rinsed and drained 2 cups frozen corn Garnish with green onions, chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños

Preparation Heat Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat and add oil. Add onion, bell and jalapeño peppers and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are softened. Add chili powder and cumin and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until spices are aromatic. Add chicken broth, sweet potatoes and garlic. Bring soup to a boil; reduce heat to medium and cover. Cook for 15 minutes. Add tomatoes, quinoa, black beans and corn and cook an additional 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes and quinoa are tender. Serve with fresh green onion, cilantro or jalapeños for garnish.■

Learn to prepare healthy food that taste good. Take a Cooking Class ...It’s Fun!

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fresh new ways to enjoy potatoes

otatoes are the vegetable that take breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks to the next level of yum. They are quick to disappear but also quick and easy to buy, prepare and serve. Not only are potatoes uber satisfying, but research published in the Journal of American College of Nutrition also shows that when prepared healthfully, they can be a part of a weight loss program-just call them the 9th Wonder of the World. If you’re looking for flavorful and nutritious dishes that can be part of your weight management plan this new year, then look no further. Here’s a little inspiration for potato dishes sure to become favorites in 2016: DIY potato chips: This is a super easy and delicious recipe. Boil a russet potato and a few purple potatoes for 5 minutes, drain, dry and cut into thin slices. Toss the freshly cut slices in one beaten egg white. Spray a non-stick pan with cooking spray and evenly space the chips throughout the pan. Bake slices at 400 degrees F for 35 minutes, turning halfway through. Top chips with sea salt or a sprinkle of bleu cheese. Season with new flavor favorites: Spice up your baked or roasted potatoes with healthy toppings that really raise the bar on nutrition and flavor. Start with a plain, thick and creamy yogurt and a good source of protein. If you’re serious about spice, try adding a tablespoon of Sriracha and orange juice to a half-cup of your yogurt, mix, and add a dollop to your potatoes. Love a Mediterranean flair? Top your taters with Greek yogurt mixed with lemon, garlic, roasted red peppers and oregano. Wholesome mashed potatoes: Mash your potatoes with a low-fat spread, Greek yogurt or skim milk for that creamy, delicious texture you love, without all the extra calories.

Slim-belly baked potato bar: Families will love a baked potato bar. Top a baked potato with ground turkey, salsa and light sour cream for taco night, or top your potatoes with tomato sauce, turkey pepperoni, Italian blend shredded cheese and other veggies for a pizza-style delight. Grilled potatoes: Potatoes are the perfect addition to your backyard barbecue menu. Grilling potatoes adds a unique flavor you can’t get from the stove or oven. Create your own spud rub with onion powder, lemon pepper, paprika, sea salt and ground cumin and coat potatoes with a little extra virgin olive oil. Place the potatoes on a grill rack or basket, and within 15 minutes, you’ll have yourself the most spectacular side dish. Customize a nutritious breakfast hash: Drizzle a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet and add diced potatoes (fresh, frozen or refrigerated) with bell pepper and onion, cover and cook on medium heat for 10 minutes. To serve with soft-cooked eggs, use a spoon and make 4 shallow depressions in the hash and carefully crack an egg into each hollowed-out spot. Cover the pan and cook eggs for 5 minutes, or until the whites are set and yolks are still runny, then serve immediately. Alternatively, scramble four eggs and top your hash. For a final touch, top with hot sauce or a sprinkle of tarragon, salsa or chimichurri sauce. One medium-sized skin-on potato has just 110 calories and contains 45 percent of your daily value of vitamin C. On its own, a potato contains no fat, no sodium, no cholesterol and has more potassium than a banana. Healthy eating is so much better with foods you love and new ways to enjoy them. For more potato recipes, visit PotatoGoodness.com.■ April - May 2016

COMMUNITY

better-for-you ways to host your next spring gathering

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These tips will help you plan a spring gathering to impress your guests.”

to entertain. Read labels and be conscious of what you are putting on your table. A brand such as Naturally Fresh(R) offers delicious, home-style-tasting salad dressings and dips with no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

s the weather warms up and you’re beginning to think about sunny brunches and breezy dinners on the patio, it may be time to take a fresh approach to your spring entertaining. From Easter and Mother’s Day to a number of other spring holidays, who wouldn’t want to step up their hosting game? During a season of celebration, temptations can preoccupy you, but that doesn’t mean you have to give in. These tips will help you plan a spring gathering to impress your guests while treating them to better-for-you choices. 1. Choose dishes that can be prepared ahead of time. While you may be looking to wow your family and friends with your impressive entertaining abilities, you also want to catch up and spend time with them. After all, isn’t that the point of hosting a gathering? Find a main course that can be prepped before your gathering so you’ll have more time to laugh and talk with your guests. Make a plan so everything will be ready for your guests to enjoy at the same time. 2. Reach for home-style-tasting and simple ingredients. Take pride in each ingredient you use while preparing

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3. Make better-for-you substitutions. Sticking with a better-for-you theme doesn’t mean you have to skip dessert. You can find plenty of dessert recipes that substitute ingredients to increase nutrition and lower fat and calorie content. For example, you can substitute applesauce for oil and butter, or coco nibs for chocolate chips. Get creative and your guests will marvel at your fresh approach to cooking and baking. 4. Opt for fresh foods when possible. Include various types of fresh fruits and vegetables in your appetizers, main course and side dishes. Fresh foods contain wonderful vitamins and minerals, so why not share some of the benefits with your friends? A veggie tray with Naturally Fresh(R) Classic Ranch Brand Dressing is a classically refreshing hors d’oeuvre to serve at any spring gathering while beautifully displayed watermelon makes a sweet and guilt-free dessert.

5. Create shared platters. To avoid loading your guests’ plates with huge portions, create platters that everyone can share. While you’re setting up, be mindful of the number of people you’re hosting compared to the amount of food you prepare. Serve the meal family style and encourage everyone to try a little bit of everything. Bring a better-for-you mindset to your spring gatherings when you follow these tips. For more recipes and to find Naturally Fresh(R) Brand Dressings in store, visit: naturallyfresh.com/recipes or naturallyfresh.com/find-a-store.■

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Grilled RancH

Chicken Quesadilla Ingredients

1/2 cup Naturally Fresh(R) Classic Ranch Dressing 8 - 12 ounces of boneless, skinless chicken breast 2 medium red bell peppers Olive oil, as needed 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 2 tbsp. green onions, chopped 1 tbsp. cilantro, fresh, chopped 1/4 tsp. cumin, ground 8 (6”- 8” size) flour tortillas

Preparation 1. Marinate chicken in ranch dressing, cover and refrigerate for one hour. Grill 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until no longer pink. Cool slightly; slice thinly. 2. Brush peppers with olive oil. Grill over high heat, turning frequently, until charred. Remove from grill; peel off skins, remove seeds, and chop coarsely. Combine cooked chicken, chopped roasted peppers, cheeses, green onions, cilantro and cumin in medium bowl; mix well. 3. Brush one side of tortilla with olive oil; turn over. Spread chicken mixture on one half. Fold other half over filling; press firmly. Grill tortilla over low heat for 4 to 5 minutes on each side; increase heat to medium to crisp. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling. Cut into wedges and serve.■ April - May 2016

On the Scene at the Carolina Kitchen

With Lance London

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April - May 2016

COMMUNITY

kitchen & bath upgrades that are ‘the whole package’

et’s face it - once you get past high school, the people who go farthest in life are the ones who are the “whole package,” those who balance style, good looks and brains. The same can be said of kitchen and bath upgrades. The ones that will stand the test of time - the ones you’ll love as much in five years as you do the day they’re installed are the improvements that blend style and intelligence.

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Sure you might fall in love with that $5,000 built-in coffee maker, but are you going to adore it as much when you’re still paying for it five years from now? And when you sell your home one day, will buyers agree with you that it was worth giving up an entire walk-in closet to get five more square feet in the master bathroom? Great bathrooms and kitchens really do sell homes, so it makes sense to invest in upgrades that are the

whole package. They look great, are stylish, functional and enjoyable, and will give you a decent return on your investment when it comes time to sell. Here are six kitchen and bathroom improvements that really are the total package: 1. Granite countertops Countertops are both a major design feature and a vital necessity in both kitchens and baths. New, quality countertops improve the appear-

COMMUNITY ance and function of either room. Of course, granite is still a top choice for kitchen counters but it also goes well in the bathroom, giving vanities a high-end look. A USA Today study found more than half of buyers said they would pay more for a home with granite countertops. 2. Skylights Whether in a kitchen or bathroom, adding solar-powered, freshair skylights will brighten the space with abundant daylight and freshen the air with natural ventilation that exhausts heat, humidity and odors. In baths, they also provide privacy. Energy Star-qualified no leak skylights like those from VELUX America can be operated by a touchpad programmable remote control, as can solar powered blinds in an array of designer colors and patterns, and are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit for the skylights, blinds and the cost of installation. Sun Tunnel tubular skylights make it possible to add natural light even in first-floor kitchens or bathrooms where there is no direct roof access. To learn more, and to locate local dealers and certified installers, visit www.whyskylights.com. 3. Quality lighting Lighting is both a practical and design consideration for kitchens and bathrooms. In addition to natural light sources, such as skylights and windows, it’s a good investment to install upgraded light fixtures. You should have multiple layers of light, including overhead for both rooms, task lighting or under-the-cabinet lighting in kitchens, and vanity lighting in the bathroom. Your design options are vast, and upgrading your lighting can be both a design statement and an improvement that enhances livability. 4. Eco-friendly fixtures and appliances Of course you know new appli-

ances and fixtures can make kitchens and baths look more appealing to buyers, and more enjoyable for you while you live in your home. But their value will be even greater if you choose options that can also help reduce your water, sewer and utility bills. From low-flow showerheads and ultra-high-efficiency toilets, to Energy Star-qualified dishwashers and refrigerators, eco-friendly fixtures and appliances are great design choices that will put money back in your pocket for years to come. 5. Tile Tile is a big win for both kitchens and baths. Replacing worn or dated tile in showers or bathroom floors improves the look and function of the room. In kitchens, adding a tile backsplash is an affordable way to make a design statement while protecting walls from cooking spatters. Tile can also serve as a countertop material in

kitchens and baths, where design flexibility and durability are essential. 6. Organization and storage solutions From dishes, pots, pans and foodstuff in the kitchen, to towels and personal care items in the bathroom, you probably have a lot of stuff that needs to be stored in both rooms. So will future buyers! Adding cabinet and drawer organizers, as well as extra storage solutions, can make it easier for you to use both rooms. Plus, it will help reduce clutter, giving your kitchen and bath a more open, clean look. You don’t need a huge budget to make kitchen and bathroom upgrades that really are the whole package. Even a minor renovation in either room can have a big impact on your home’s livability, beauty and resale value. For more information, get details at www.whyskylights.com and at www.whyskylights.com.■ April - May 2016

COMMUNITY

All the Rage:

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trending in hardwood flooring

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All hardwood flooring is not the same.”

COMMUNITY home or office. To compensate for this movement, installers should leave an expansion gap between the wood flooring and the wall, and install baseboard moulding or quarter round to hide the extra space. Remember, solid hardwood flooring cannot be glued onto concrete, does not perform well in high-moisture areas, and can require up to 14 days of acclimation time. Engineered hardwood flooring is not one solid piece of wood, but rather a cross-layer construction of five to nine layers of hardwood, bonded together using heat and pressure. As a result of this process, engineered flooring is less likely to be affected by changes in humidity, reducing expansion and contraction. In most cases, it can be sanded and refinished, however special care must be taken with the thinner profiles. And it can be glued onto concrete, making it an appropriate choice for all levels - upstairs, ground level and basements - and a great choice for what’s all the rage these days, wide plank flooring!

fter months of online browsing, you’ve found the perfect, wide plank hardwood flooring. Or so you think! You absolutely love the look, but how can you be sure it’s the right product for you? Ask the pros. In order to make an informed, purchasing decision, Linda Jovanovich of the American Hardwood Information Center, (www.hardwoodinfo.com) suggests you do your research. “All hardwood flooring is not the same,” she says. “Consulting with the experts will help determine if your product of choice will perform well in your unique home or office environment, and in your part of the country. And a little extra due diligence will eliminate guess-work, and the pain of an improper product choice.”

Another Great Resource The flooring professionals at the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), www.nwfa.org, concur. Requests for wider boards, random widths and rustic species full of character and color continue to dominate the hardwood flooring marketplace. “It’s a significant trend that will likely continue for quite some time,” says Brett Miller, NWFA vice president of Education and Certification. “And it is a trend that can present certain challenges, especially if the installation is subpar and the end-user is uninformed.” So, act wisely and be in-the-know. Engaging the services of professional, certified flooring installers will ensure your gorgeous flooring will stay that way. These knowledgeable craftsmen understand the importance of acclimation and the control of temperature and relative humidity. They in turn will pass that information on to you, the end-user. An educated customer is a happy one.

Getting Started The pros at Tennessee-based Mullican Flooring (www. mullicanflooring.com), offer this need-to-know information regarding the differences between solid and engineered hardwood flooring, and the appropriate applications for each. Solid hardwood flooring is just that, solid wood milled to a three-quarter inch thickness that can be installed only on a subfloor of wood, plywood or oriented strand board. Because of its thickness, it can be sanded and refinished over several generations of use. As a natural product, it will expand and contract with the humidity changes in your

More on What’s Trending Other trends being followed by NWFA member companies, especially custom, wide plank flooring manufacturer, Shannon & Waterman (www.shannonwaterman.com), include a continuation of gray stains and finishes, texturing of wood versus smooth finishes, utilizing random widths in a single installation, a preference for rustic species, selecting boards based on significant character inclusions like knot holes and saw blade marks, and a return to oil finishes. It’s spicy. It’s classy. And it’s all the rage! Visit www. HardwoodInfo.com to see more on flooring, cabinetry and other products made from American Hardwoods.■

April - May 2016

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Childhood obesity

ccording to the Journal of the American Medical Association and the National Center for Health Statistics, childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years. Defined by the National Institutes of Health overweight is defined as having excess body weight for a particular height from fat, muscle, bone, water, or a combination of these factors. Obesity is defined as having excess body fat. Overweight and obesity are the result of “caloric imbalance”—too few calories expended for the amount of calories consumed—and are affected by various genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors. Childhood obesity has both immediate and long-term effects on health and well-being. Some of the immediate effects include cardiovascular issues that may develop. Obese youth are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. Overweight children also experience instability in glucose levels which often result to pre-diabetes, a condition in which blood glucose levels indicate a high risk for development of diabetes diabetic conditions. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, children and adolescents who are obese are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem. Some long term affects include; heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, several types of cancer, and osteoarthritis. Overweight and obesity are associated with increased risk for many types of cancer, including cancer of the breast, colon, endometrium, esophagus, kidney, pancreas, gall bladder, thyroid, ovary, cervix, and prostate, as well as multiple myeloma and Hodgkin’s lymphoma states the Cancer Journal for Clinicians. The Journal of Pediatrics published that Healthy lifestyle habits, including healthy eating and physical activity, can lower the risk of becoming obese and developing related diseases. The dietary and physical activity behaviors of children and adolescents are influenced by many sectors of society, including families, communities, schools, child care settings, medical care providers, faith-based institutions, government agencies, the media, and the food and beverage industries and entertainment industries. Schools play a particularly critical role by establishing a safe and supportive environment with policies and practices that support healthy behav-

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“

By Dr. Corder, M.D.

Obese youth are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.” iors. Schools also provide opportunities for students to learn about and practice healthy eating and physical activity behaviors. Take charge of your child health. Encourage healthy eating habits and lead by example. If your children see you trying healthy foods they will be more inclined to try them also. And exercise doesn’t have to be boring! Get out and Play with your child. It’s a fun way to burn calories and bond with your family.■ Frederick Corder, MD FAAP Dr. Corder attended medical school at Howard University College of Medicine and graduated in 1977. He is board certified by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Corder was formally the Chief Health Officer for Prince George’s County and the medical Director of several health plans. Dr. Corder has been in Pediatric practice for over 35 years. Dr. Corder, his wife Dr. Marilyn Corder ad their daughter Adrienne Corder started the Corder Pounders Youth Fitness program and the Family Fitness Center. Bowie, MD • (301) 805-2229 Cheverly, MD • (301) 341-7494 Children’s Medical Center Washington, DC • (202) 291-0147

By J. Robin Musiol, CRNP

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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Feel Happier with Bio-identical Hormones!

“M

ood Swings R US” should be the name of the years between 30-60 when hormones for both females and males change and decline. If you are wondering whether hormones have something to do with your anxiety, depression or changing emotions, come have your hormone blood levels checked at New Day Vitality (newdayvitality.com).

Women Low estrogen levels can cause severe PMS, depression and serious mood swings in some menopausal women. Restoring hormones to pre-menopausal levels at the earliest opportunity can be a lifesaver and can avoid the risk of deeper more serious depression. There are three key aspects of lifestyle when it comes to mood: hormones, exercise and nutrition. Of these, hormones are actually the simplest for a health practitioner to figure out, and the rest are up to you. Hormones influence mood for about 70% of women. In menopause the vast majority of women find that their moods are improved by taking estrogen. Women who struggle with depression are often very responsive to hormone therapy and see improvement with a low dosage of estrogen. Hormonal loss can make you feel like you are going crazy. There is a reason Suzanne Somers labeled the common symptoms “The 7 Dwarves” of the change of life: • Bitchy • Sleepy • Sweaty • Bloated • Forgetful • Itchy and • All dried up

There are three key aspects of lifestyle when it comes to mood: hormones, exercise and nutrition.”

partners found them less irritable and their workouts were improved. Often they feel more motivated, brighter and energetic. At New Day Vitality Hormone Center our comprehensive history, physical and blood panel enables our medical practitioners to provide natural hormone replacement specifically for you.■ For more vital days and romantic nights call New Day Vitality Hormone Center (newdayvitality.com) for a free consultation 410-793-5212.

MEN Usually the mood symptoms of most men with low testosterone are fairly mild. Some men will say they feel more irritable, tired or not interested in the things they used to enjoy. But when men have their testosterone supplemented at New Day Vitality Hormone Center (newdayvitality.com) some comments I hear in my office are: • “I have way more energy” • “I can keep up with the young guys now” • “My wife is REALLY happy!” • “My co-workers can tell the difference” The majority of men who have low testosterone and get it supplemented with bio-identical pellet therapy describe improvement in their sexual function, better moods, their April - May 2016

It is $38.99 for one year or $50.00 for two years

Mail your check or money order to: 8181 Professional Pl., Ste 206, Landover, MD 20785 Subscribe @ Womensjournalmd@gmail.com Blog: wojotalk.com

The Women’s Journal Newspaper is published bimonthly and is available free of charge, by subscription, display stands in approved private and public establishments and authorized distributors only. Trademark and U.S. Copyright Laws protect The Women’s Journal Newspaper. No part of this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Women’s Journal Newspaper is not responsible for any editorial comment (other than its own), typographical errors from advertisements submitted as camera ready or any reproductions of advertisements submitted as camera ready. If an advertisement does not meet our standards of acceptance, we may revise or cancel it at any time, whether or not it has been already acknowledged and/or previously published. The advertiser assumes sole responsibility for all statements contained in submitted copy and will protect and indemnify The Women’s Journal Newspaper, its owners, publishers, and employees, against any and all liability, 18

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loss or expense arising out of claims for libel, unfair trade names, patents, copyrights and propriety rights, and all violations of the right of privacy or other violations resulting from the publication of this newspaper or its advertising copy. The Publisher shall be under no liability for failure, for any reason, to insert an advertisement. The Publisher shall not be liable by reason of error, omission and/or failure to insert any part of an advertisement. The Publisher will not be liable for delay or failure in performance in publication and/or distribution if all or any portion of an issue is delayed or suspended for any reason. The Publisher will exercise reasonable judgment in these instances and will make adjustments for the advertiser where and when appropriate. The Women’s Journal 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 The Women’s Journal™ READERSHIP 250,000

Submitted by Chetanna Okasi, M.D.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Health Issues Women Shouldn’t Put Up With and Don’t Have to

omen often endure health issues in silence, especially if the problem is embarrassing,affects only them and doesn’t pose a serious health risk. Yet issues that appear minor and personal can have a major impact on a woman’s quality of life - and ultimately on the lives of those around her. Here are three common health issues that women tend to discount as “minor,” and avoid talking about. Yet each of these issues can deeply affect not only a woman’s physical health, but her mental, personal and professional well-being as well. • Incontinence - Defined as the involuntary release of urine from the bladder, incontinence affects 25 million Americans, according to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Seventy-five to 80 percent of them are women, the National Association for Continence estimates. Women may remain silent about their problem thinking incontinence is a normal part of aging (it’s not) or that

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Three common health issues that women tend to discount as ‘minor’.”

•

it only affects sufferers on a personal level. From bladder training to medications, treatments can help. The first step is to talk to your doctor about the problem. Heavy periods - About 10 million women experience heavy periods that require hourly changes of pads or tampons even at night, bleeding that lasts a week or longer, and that restrict their daily activities. Consulting with their doctors can help women decide on a treatment for their heavy periods. Oral contraceptives and hysterectomies have been traditional options for severe cases. An alternative, NovaSure, is a nonsurgical, non-hormonal treatment that can be done in a doctor’s office with a single five-minute procedure. For more than 90 percent of women, NovaSure can dramatically reduce or even eliminate menstrual bleeding. To learn more about the procedure call 443-380-0060. Digestive health - From chronic constipation to irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux to severe

gas, digestive disorders affect millions of American women, according to the National Institutes of Health. It’s important to find out if your digestive problems are relatively innocuous or indicate a more serious issue, so talk to your doctor.■

Ellicott City: 9501 Old Annapolis Road, Ste. 305 Ellicott City, MD 21042 Laurel 8317 Cherry Lane Laurel, MD 20707 Phone numbers: 443-380-0060 410-730-7722 April - May 2016

HEALTH & WELLNESS

By Kashif Ali, M.D.

Update on Cervical Cancer

n the past 40 years, there has been a significant decrease in both the number of cases and deaths associated with cervical cancer. In the 21st century, cervical cancer is one of the few malignancies that is now considered a preventable disease. This is possible through early detection programs and/or vaccination. Despite all of this, an estimated over 12,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer, and over 4,000 women will die as a result of this disease in 2015. Although this still seems like a large figure for a highly preventable cancer, it is far less than what he had seen in the past and is no longer one of the most common cancers in women in the United States. Unfortunately, cervical cancer still remains a significant problem is parts of the world that are less economically fortunate. Due to this, worldwide, cervical cancer still remains one of the most common cancers in women accounting for 275,000 deaths in 2008. Based on the advancements in cervical cancer screening, review of years of data on this subject, and recent information regarding the role of HPV in cervical cancer, the screening guidelines were recently updated. In March 2012, the American Cancer Society released these new guidelines for cervical cancer screening. î &#x201C;e whole idea behind cervical cancer screening is to detect cervical cancer in its earlier stages in patients who do not yet show signs of cervical cancer. In recent years, due to this early detection, physicians have been able to diagnose and treat cervical cancer at much earlier stages thus increasing the potential for cure. At the present time, there are two different types of screening modalities utilized: a pap smear and the HPV test. A pap smear is a method for detecting cells suspicious for turning into cancer or fordetecting cervical cancer in its early stages. The HPV test can detect the certain strains of viruses that are known to eventually develop into cervical cancer.

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The latest screening guidelines from the American Cancer Society now recommend that all women should begin cervical cancer screening at the age of 21. The most drastic change is that yearly pap smear are no longer required, since we now know that it can take years for cervical cancer to develop. More frequent testing can in turn lead to further unnecessary procedures. Women between the ages of 21 and 29 should undergo a pap smear every three years. In this age group, the HPV test should be performed only if the pap smear shows any abnormalities. A pap smear along with the HPV test should be performed every five years for women between the ages of 30 and 65. In this age group, if the HPV test is not done, then a pap smear should be done every three years. If a woman has had normal screening results throughout her years of testing, she no longer needs screening for cervical cancer after the age of 65.â&#x2013;

Dr. Kashif Ali earned his MD degree from Ross University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Seton Hall University in New Jersey. While at Seton Hall University, he became the Chief Resident and then went on to complete his training in Hematology and Oncology. During this training he was appointed Chief Fellow. Dr. Ali is presently board certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology and Oncology.

Thermafrax 101

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Lift & Tighten the Face & Achieve Bright New Skin

he decision to pursue cosmetic rejuvenation can be daunting with so many choices appearing on the horizon daily, each promising to be the panacea. The key to rejuvenation lies in your choosing the optimal combination of treatments. If tightening and lifting your face and evening the tone and texture of your skin speak to you, we can accomplish just that. Dr. Pacheco offers the perfect combination of Thermage CPT® and Fraxel® Dual, a procedure we have fondly dubbed “Thermafrax”. Thermage CPT® is a non-surgical, FDA approved radiofrequency treatment that tightens and lifts brows, cheeks, jowls and neck, as well as the tummy, thighs and arms with absolutely no downtime. Through the use of radiofrequency heating, Thermage CPT® induces the production of new collagen, which leads to a process of tightening and lifting that continues for at least six months – with results lasting up to 3-4 years. Thermage CPT® can re-tighten a previous facelift, and has also been shown to improve acne. While Thermage CPT® lifts and tightens the skin, additional measures are needed to improve the skin surfaces’ tone and texture. Fraxel® Dual Laser Treatment is the per-

fect partner to Thermage CPT® and revolutionary in achieving flawless skin. Over the years, your skin changes due to the sun, environmental insults, and natural genetic factors. This prevents you from looking as good as you feel. Loss of collagen manifests in larger pores and fine lines, and brown spots develop. Imagine your skin is a digital picture made up of thousands of spots or pixels. Fraxel® Dual treatment targets your skin by using microscopic laser columns called micro thermal zones. This precise treatment eliminates old, damaged cells and penetrates into the inner layer of the dermis to invite the body’s own natural healing process to build new collagen and eliminate unwanted pigment. The Fraxel® Dual Laser is the first technology that can produce dramatic skin rejuvenation with a speedy healing process and with minimal down-time. Fraxel® Dual treats uneven pigmentation, acne scars, melasma, brown spots, improves skin texture, facial lines and wrinkles, and is one of the most effective procedures for treating the delicate skin areas of the neck, chest, hands and forearms. In fact, Fraxel® Dual can be used on the skin, anywhere. Dr. Pacheco and the Adoro Medical Spa team look forward to seeing you soon as you relax and rejuvenate!■

Spring Event: Thermage® and Fraxel® Dual

April - May 2016

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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Your -Month Guide

Shedding for the wedding:

he dress, the tux, the guests, the honeymoon - there are so many details that go into your wedding day. All eyes are on you from the moment you walk down the aisle until the last dance of the night. Understandably so, brides and grooms often feel a lot of pressure to look their best on this important day - there’s nothing like a wedding to motivate you to get serious about your health and fitness goals. But crash diets or extreme exercise programs are never the answer. “It’s usually best to start thinking about your specific goals three months before your wedding day to allow plenty of time to establish your routine and adjust to a healthier lifestyle,” says Steve Bronston, certified personal trainer with Life Time, a healthy way of life company that operates more than 115 health and wellness centers nationwide. “This creates a great opportunity for the bride and groom to support each other and get in shape together.” Bronston and Life Time offer a three-month countdown plan to get you ready for the big day: Weeks 1-4 Focus on changing your unhealthy habits. Nutrition is key when trying to lose weight, decrease body fat and increase your overall health. Work with a professional to lay out a detailed nutrition plan that consists of carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats at each meal. Then, begin with a fitness program that incorporates weight training and cardio intervals. Arm exercises like overhead press, tricep push-ups and bicep curls, and back exercises like rows and rear flys help brides looking to tone up for a strapless or low-back dress. Bronston suggests starting with two or three days of weight training, two or three days of cardio and one day of Pilates or yoga. Weeks 5-8 Now it’s time to switch up your exercise routines. It’s a good idea to work with a personal trainer or join a group fitness class once or twice a week to shake up your routine and stay motivated. Your workouts should include one to two weight training exercises per body part throughout the week. If you can, try to shift the amount of weight you use and number of repetitions you do to help stimulate change within your body. Continue a cardio routine of two to three days per week and add in another day or Pilates or yoga. Weeks 9-12 It is important to keep up with your developing healthy habits as the weeks progress, but as your wedding day approaches, you’re sure to feel the stress of planning. “A new focus on rest and relaxation during this time period is key,” Bronston says. You can eat well and exercise perfectly, but without sleep, stretching, rest and recovery, your body is at risk of not functioning properly. Planning a wedding can be stressful and tiresome, but if you commit to a healthy diet and fitness plan, you’ll walk down the aisle feeling confident and ready for your new life ahead.■ April - May 2016

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Heart Screening You Should do Now

“

Heart disease is the leading killer of Americans of all age groups, races and genders.”

id you know a simple test of your legs may be able to tell you if you have a higher risk for heart disease? The test is quick, painless and non-invasive. A health professional fits pressure cuffs around your ankles and upper arms, and uses a small ultrasound device to measure the systolic blood pressure in your limbs. It is simple and painless. The disease is called Peripheral Arterial Disease or PAD. Why is this important? Heart disease is the leading killer of Americans of all age groups, races and genders. Detecting heart disease risks early is important in order to live an active and healthy life for as long as possible. Yet the general public remains largely unaware of PAD as indicator of heart blockages. A recent study by University of California researchers, published in the journal Circulation Research, found a strong link between PAD and coronary artery disease and stroke. PAD occurs when fatty deposits build up in the

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small arteries outside the heart, and it usually affects the arteries that supply blood to legs and feet, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). The condition can not only cause tissue damage in the affected area, it could be a sign of chronic blockages throughout the arteries in a person’s body. About 8 million Americans have PAD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Shockingly, the CDC says that 40 percent of people who have PAD may have no symptoms at all, and so be unaware they have the condition. This is why it is important to get screened. You may not have any idea that you are at risk. Having a screening may give you a hint at what lie in your future in time to do something about it. People who do have symptoms may feel muscle pain in the calves, hips and thighs while doing any kind of exercise that involves leg muscles - such as walking or climbing stairs, or experience cold legs, wounds that heal poorly or slowly, and burning, tingling or numbness in the legs.

Common PAD risk factors include: • Smoking - The AHA says people who smoke may have four times the risk of developing PAD. • Being overweight or obese • Diabetes • A sedentary lifestyle • High cholesterol • High blood pressure • Family history • Age - Approximately 12-20 percent of people older than 60 have PAD, according to the CDC. Because you can have PAD and experience no symptoms, many people may be unaware they have it - and that they’re at greater risk for developing heart disease. While health insurance may cover a PAD test for people who show symptoms of the disease, health experts recommend anyone with certain risk factors should be screened. You don’t need a doctor’s prescription or a trip to the doctor’s office to have the test done; Life Line Screening performs affordable PAD testing in community settings throughout the country. To find out when a screening clinic may be scheduled in your area visit www.lifelinescreening.com/ HeartCheck or call (877) 754-9631.■

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Submitted by Janet V. Johnson, M.D.

Having an Attitude of Gratitude

eaching children to be grateful is what all parents want and can attain in surprisingly simple ways such as from sending thank you notes to feeding pets. Children emulate the adults in their lives in every way. Be they parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, or childcare providers. Make sure you use “thank you” and “please” when you talk to them. Insist that they use their words too. Remember, good manners and gratitude overlap. Here are several ways to help with teaching gratitude to your children: 1. Work gratitude into your daily conversation. Weave appreciation for mundane things into your everyday talk. When you reinforce an idea frequently, it’s more likely to stick. Pick an “I am thankful for …” part of the day to turn up the gratitude in your home. This can be done at dinnertime or at night time just before bed as part of a nightly routine. Teach children to be grateful for the creations around them, the seasons, the sunshine, the falling leaves and the rain. Children will quickly understand that there is beauty all around, and that it has come from something much bigger than we are. 2. Have kids help. Give your child a chore. By participating in simple household chores like feeding the dog or stacking dirty dishes on the counter, kids realize that all these things take effort. There is a better appreciation for the person who does the chore on a more regular basis. 3. Provide your family opportunities to serve. Figure out some way your child can actively participate in helping someone else. Even if it is to help cook a meal, bake a cake, or walk a pet for a sick person. Start by encouraging your children to serve other family members, and then help them find ways to actively serve others. Let them help as you serve others. They will learn by example. 4. Encourage generosity. Donate toys and clothes to less fortunate kids; it inspires them to go through their own closets and give something special to those in need, as well. 5. Insist on thank-you notes. If your child knows how to draw or write, let them write thank-you notes for gifts. For toddlers, the cards can be just scribbles with your own thank-you attached. As they grow, they can become drawings, then longer letters. Younger children can even dictate the letter while you write. Just the act of saying out loud why they loved the gift will make them feel more grateful. • Practice saying no. Kids ask for toys, video games, and candy sometimes on an hourly basis. It’s difficult, if not impossible, to feel grateful when your every

•

whim is granted. It is important for us to be reasonable and say “No”. We also have to be careful rewarding our children for everything. We want them to do good because it is the right thing to do, and not because they get something, like a new toy or money. Teach your children to be grateful for adversity. When things are hard, or uncertain, or don’t go as planned, we need to teach our children to be grateful. To recognize the blessings that comes from hard things. We need to help children see what can be learned from our adversity, and how we can take what we learn into other situations to help others and ourselves. Be patient. Don’t expect gratitude to develop overnight. This kind of work requires weeks, months, even years of reinforcement. Lead by example and mostly with love. The goal is to give them “grateful eyes”, so they begin to for see the need before they have to be told. With time and patience you will be rewarded with a child who has an attitude of gratitude.■ Loving Care Pediatrics: Dr. Johnson and Staff accepting new patients, birth to age 21

International Travel Vaccination Center 3311 Toledo Terrace Suite C-201, Hyattsville, Maryland 20782 Office: (301) 403-8808 / Fax: (301) 403-1341 April - May 2016

HEALTH & WELLNESS

By Alan Weiss, M.D.

Preserving and Enhancing Vitality:

Safe and Effective Bio-identical Hormone Replacement

n my office we utilize hormone therapy, both by topical creams and subcutaneous pellets to improve health and function. Our hormones determine our vitality, youthfulness, how we feel and how we look. While hormone replacement is not for everybody, for those who do choose to use them an enormous difference can be made in health for both men and women. Hormones are chemical messengers from one part of the body that travel to our tissues and organs to produce an effect. Without hormones, we could not live, could not function, and could not reproduce. Examples of hormones include testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, DHEA, growth hormone, and many others (like insulin!) As we age our hormone levels decline. However, another way of viewing this relationship is that as our hormone levels decline, the aging process is accelerated. Bio-identical hormone replacement is an approach to optimize the natural hormonal status of a man or woman to allow for health and well being in the safest possible way. This is done by using hormones that are chemically and molecularly identical to the hormones that are already in the human body. It is important to draw this distinction because many of the hormones that have been studied and that (legitimately) aroused concern about the safety of hormone therapy have been hormones that are synthetic and do not necessarily belong in the human body and do not promote optimal health. There are not as many studies done on bioidentical hormone therapy due to the enormous cost of medical studies that are only done when the pharmaceutical companies can make huge profits out of synthetic medications. It makes intuitive sense that the hormones that belong in the human body are the ones we were born with! And there are studies that do demonstrate the safety and benefits of bio-identical hormone therapy. So, what are the benefits of BHRT? Treating the symptoms of menopause with safe and effective doses of estrogen, progesterone, and, in some, testosterone can reduce the hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness often experienced. As well, judicious use of hormones can improve heart health, libido, sexual function, cognitive function, and bone health. Men with low testosterone levels are at a higher risk of dying from many causes than are men with normal levels of testosterone. As well, low testosterone can cause fatigue, loss of muscle mass, low libido, elevated cholesterol and can

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“Our hormones determine our vitality, youthfulness, how we feel and how we look.” play a role in the development of diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. Optimizing testosterone levels to an optimal level helps men experience heightened vitality and well-being. These hormones can be delivered by creams or by subcutaneous pellet insertion. Hormone pellets can provide a sustained delivery of bio identical hormones to achieve optimal health. As well using a hormone called HCG in combination with a rigorous diet can produce significant weight loss in a short period of time.■ Dr.Weiss completed his undergraduate work at University of Virginia and is a graduate of McGill University Medical School; he completed his Internship at the University of Hawaii and Residency at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Boston. As head of Annapolis Integrative Medicine, Dr. Weiss specializes in preventative health, alternative approaches to wellness, and treating complex issues including CFS and Fibromyalgia.

Low Back Pain

ow back pain is the most commonly reported pain of all pain types. It is the leading cause of disability in Americans under 45 years of age. More than twenty six million Americans between the ages of 20-64 experience pain frequently in the lower back which can be a result of conditions affecting the bony spine, the disc between the vertebrae that serves as soft cushions, the nerves and the spinal cord, and muscles of the low back. Conditions of the kidney like infections and stones also cause low back pain. The treatment of low back pain depends on the cause of the pain. A frequent condition that causes low back pain and radiating lower extremity pain called “sciatica” is a good example. It is diagnosed after taking appropriate history doing physical examinations and performing MRI of the lumbar spine. It is initially treated with conservative measures such as an exercise regimen, anti-inflammatory medication and chiropractic treatment. If these measures are unsuccessful epidural injections are frequently used to treat this condition. Those who don’t respond to the above measure might require surgical treatment. A selective nerve root block is a more precise injection done under fluoroscope guidance where a long acting steroid is deposited around the nerve root as it exits the spinal column. It is usually performed by an interventional pain management doctor. Another very common condition that causes lower back pain is osteoarthritis of the facet joint. The facet joint are joints that connect the two vertebra bodies. They comprise of two bony knobs on each side of the spine covered by articular cartilage. Osteoarthritis can be caused by injury of the spine during accidents but the most common cause is long term spine degeneration. Conservative management is first tried before resorting to procedures to treat this condition.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

“

By Haddis T. Hagos, M.D.

The treatment of low back pain depends on the cause of the pain.” If other measures are unsuccessful a diagnostic block of the medial branches nerve is done as a trial run. If the pain is relieved with this nerve block but recurs after two sessions a radiofrequency ablation is done. Using x-ray guidance, these nerves are targeted with a special needle that is connected by a probe to a radiofrequency generator, the tip of the needle is heated up to 80 Celsius so that a lesion is created to disrupt the nerves ability to send signals. This procedure relieves pain in many patients. There are studies that show that anywhere between 30 to 65% of the time these procedures are effective in relieving pain. It is a minimal invasive with minimal potential complications. These procedures can be done with intravenous sedative and local anesthetic. The treatment of low back pain depends on the cause of the pain. Other types of pain require different types of treatment like Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty for spinal compression fractures. Various types of surgical procedures might ultimately be required to treat some patients. This depends on the specific condition effecting the spine. The best approach is prevention of low back pain using regular exercise and avoiding weight gain.■ Dr. Foster joined our practice six months ago. She graduated from Boston University medical school, did her residency in Anesthesiology and pain medicine at the University of Maryland. Dr Foster is married and a mother of two children. Dr. Haddis Hagos is an interventional pain physician who has been in practice for over 20 years. He is board certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology in pain management. 7300 Hanover Drive, Ste. 204 Greenbelt, Maryland 20770 / 7500 Greenway Center Drive, Ste. 940 Greenbelt, Maryland 20770 Phone: (301) 220-2333 April - May 2016

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BUSINESS

your

By Nicole Livingston

How to Prepare for Appointment with an Estate Planning Attorney

ongratulations! You have scheduled your first initial consultation with your estate planning attorney. What should you do to prepare for this meeting to be the most efficient use of your time and the attorney’s time? Estate planning is all about you and your family and your assets. One of the first questions you can expect your attorney to ask you is who the members of your family are. Your family may include your spouse and your children. Perhaps you do not have children, but you have brothers or sisters and nieces and nephews. It is useful for the attorney to know whether your children are married, how many children they have, and where they live. Your attorney may also ask you what they do for a living. Knowing how long you have been married and what you did for a living are also relevant questions that pertain to your estate planning. Next, your attorney will ask you about your assets. You should bring to the meeting a list of your assets and the approximate value of each account. The type of account is sufficient for this first meeting, such as a money market account or an annuity. Eventually, you may be asked to provide more detail and beneficiary forms after a plan has been determined. e total value of your estate helps the attorney establish whether you need to do estate tax planning. You should expect your attorney to ask you who you want to administer your estate upon your death and who you want to step into your shoes to handle your finances and health care if you become incapacitated. Most clients usually name a family member to act for them. If you do

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ferent circumstances that may occur in your life before you die. At Sinclair Prosser Law, we value legacy planning and preserving wealth through sound estate planning advice to clients with an emphasis on avoiding probate and minimizing taxes.■ not have a family member you trust, then consider close friends or trusted advisors. It is not unusual to have a disinterested third party settle your estate, such as a corporate trustee. A corporate trustee can be a bank, credit union, or your attorney. Also expect your attorney to ask you who you want to leave your assets to upon your death. Clients often leave their assets to family members. You need to think about what percentage they should receive and how they should receive the money. Perhaps, your children are minors right now. You should think of an age that you want them to be able to control their inheritance. Or even if you have adult children, you can also leave your assets to them in a trust. Some examples of trusts for children are incentive trusts, spendthrift trusts, divorce protection trusts, or special needs trusts. Your attorney will ask you whether or not you think your beneficiaries are responsible and whether or not they are facing a disability. Finally, you need to have a backup plan in place. After you determine who should settle your estate, I want you to think of a backup person in case your first choice is not available. I also want you to start thinking about who should receive your money if your primary beneficiary dies before you. A comprehensive plan should span several generations to cover dif-

SinclairProsser Law, LLC focuses its practice on estate planning & administration, including the interaction of retirement plans & elder law. An established member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys & the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Colleen Sinclair Prosser, Nicole Livingston, Jon J. Gasior & Victor A. Lembo offer years of knowledge & experience in matters associated with protecting estates & families from issues arising from death and disability.

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Sisters Serving Together Wiseman Funeral Home & Chapel

By Michelle Reese-Wiseman & Marline Reese-Gamble

ello, and thank you once again for all the emails and phone calls. I’m so humbled by your positive responses. Well, taking a look back at all the articles I’ve shared with you, I noticed that I’ve told you several times about how important it is to pre-plan for your funeral arrangements and burial. So I will not beat that horse this time. However, what I’d like to share with you is just as important. It’s the Spiritual Care Program offered at Wiseman Funeral Home. Many family members have a hard time coping with the loss of a loved one. I call it “The Empty Space Syndrome”. Wiseman Funeral Home offers assistance free of charge to those who we have served. Please allow me to introduce to you, my sister and a powerful minister of God, Rev. Marline Reese-Gamble. Marline Reese-Gamble, a chaplain at Wiseman Funeral Home and a funeral officiant, Rev. Gamble passionately supports the integrity, mission, vision and values of Wiseman Funeral Home. She provides pastoral care, spiritual comfort and bereavement support to grieving families. She has a profound ability to respect different lifestyles, cultures and beliefs, as well as people with no faith tradition. When someone dies, grief can be very difficult for family and friends. Rev. Gamble provides competent and compassionate spiritual care and emotional support. With a loving and considerate presence, Rev. Gamble specializes in helping clients recognize and utilize inner strengths when struggling through the bereavement process. The focus involves developing appropriate coping mechanisms. Some clients desire prayer, attentive listening and assistance in rec-

onciling spiritual beliefs or answers to end-of-life questions. Rev. Gamble is always prepared to provide the highest quality spiritual care. The Wiseman Funeral Home Team understands that chaplaincy, in the spirit of excellence, involves empathy, compassion, and enhanced skill in dealing with the spiritual dynamics of loss and death. When clients desire prayer or religious support, Rev. Gamble complies with unique and personalized ministry consistent with the diverse needs of each grieving family. Rev. Gamble is a certified grief facilitator and ordained minister. Her values: caring, compassion, honesty, excellence and integrity. Her motto “This ministry is a rich and rewarding experience.” Rev. Gamble is dedicated and devoted to serving Prince George’s County residents with nurturing spiritual support. This journey has taken her into jails, hospitals, hospice centers, nursing homes and halfway houses. She’s helping individuals to find hope, comfort and purpose during difficult life circumstances. This passion compels and drives her and has taken her on a path of countless hours ministering to inmates. Rev. Gamble motivates inmates to examine their issues, make wise choices, and establish positive/realistic goals for personal development and growth. When making rounds at various hospitals and hospice centers, God reveals the spiritual needs of each patient. Rev. Gamble is anointed to administer spiritual care with compassion and empathy. She is helping patients manage fears, control anxieties and seek divine comfort and strength during difficult circumstances.

BUSINESS Also, Rev. Gamble is committed to investing in the spiritual lives of people through sound biblical teaching, preaching, comforting prayers and spiritual coaching. This ministry serves the community with integrity. Her other ministerial services include officiating weddings and pre-marital workshops. Rev. Gamble is devoted to helping couples build a solid foundation for enriched and lasting marital relations. These workshops include the following sessions: Good Communication, Intimacy / Passion, Money Management, Biblical Foundations of Marriage and Experiencing the Power of Oneness. In spiritual excellence and integrity, Rev. Gamble is teaching people how to live victoriously by applying God’s Word (biblical principles) to their lives. Rev. Gamble passionately studied theology, completed seminary and holds a Master of Ministry/Divinity degree from Freedom Bible College and Seminary. She’s committed to helping individuals achieve spiritual and emotional wholeness. Clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, emotions, actions, and circumstances to enhance spiritual growth and inner healing. Rev. Gamble may be contacted via email at: marline.gamble@gmail.com We love our community. We are committed to excellence. We are sisters serving you together.■ Wiseman Funeral Home, established in November 2008, is a full service funeral care provider, specializing in earth burials, cremations, memorial services, national and International shipping and receiving of human remains. The company is well versed in the practice of funeral pre-planning as well as funeral trust and Medicaid spend downs. We are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We serve you professionally with utmost respect. Contact

7531 Old Alexandria Ferry Road, Clinton, Maryland 301-899-2005 michelle@wisemanfuneralhome.net Marline.gamble@gmail.com April - May 2016

BUSINESS

This Year, Resolve to Make the Most of

Your Employee Benefits

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“

BUSINESS

Research by MassMutual shows that many Americans struggle with their personal finances, especially when it comes to making the most of their employee benefits.”

any Americans start the New Year by resolving to improve their lives by exercising more, losing weight or making other changes. Based on research findings, one in five should resolve to put their financial house in order. Research by MassMutual shows that many Americans struggle with their personal finances, especially when it comes to making the most of their employee benefits: • 22 percent of Americans admit they don’t understand their personal finances; • 22 percent don’t know which employee benefits such as healthcare coverage, life or disability insurance or retirement savings should be a priority; • 42 percent say they don’t know if they are on track to retire comfortably; and • 64 percent don’t know the details of their life insurance. “Many people muddle through personal financial decisions and simply hope for the best,” said Elaine Sarsynski, executive vice president, MassMutual Retirement Services and

Worksite Insurance. “Unfortunately, all too often people make the wrong choices and risk leaving themselves unprepared for life’s financial realities. Making the right choices can lead to greater peace of mind.” Financial planning is a discipline built on a hierarchy of needs. Psychologist Abraham Maslow first introduced the hierarchy in the form of a pyramid to explain human behavior, starting with basic needs such as food and shelter at the bottom or foundation. Other needs build from there, in order of priority, including safety, social connections, self-esteem and, at the top of the pyramid, growth. According to Maslow’s theory, basic needs must be satisfied before higher needs can be addressed. Food, water and shelter take priority over other needs such as whether or not your car has heated seats or a sun roof. The hierarchy of needs work well when establishing financial priorities and making financial decisions, according to Sarsynski. The layers of the pyramid can be matched to financial planning choices and even benefits selections: 1. Be Safe: The foundation of the

pyramid is safety. Most people and their families need financial protection from dying prematurely, suffering a long-term or even a short-term disability, or becoming seriously ill. That means most people should prioritize signing up for healthcare coverage, life and disability insurance. 2. Build Savings: Once financial protection is in place, many of us should address shorter-term goals such as accumulating personal savings, building up cash for emergencies, and eliminating shortterm debts such as credit card balances and car loans. Purchasing critical illness coverage can help protect savings, potentially avoid future debts, or provide a financial cushion in the event you or someone in your family suffers a serious illness or injury. 3. Plan for Retirement: Next, most of us need to plan for the future, which means building wealth and reducing debt over the long term. Saving for retirement through an employer’s 401(k) or other retirement savings program is a good long-term priority. Other longterm goals should be saving for college if you have children and eliminating mortgage debt. 4. Pursue Dreams: Those who accomplish those goals and who are fortunate enough to have additional financial resources can then consider their financial dreams that fall into the esteem and growth categories. Travel, pursuing expensive hobbies, purchasing a vacation home and other goals should be pursued only after other needs are met. “We all have important financial needs, wants and dreams. The key is to understand the difference and to take care of your most basic protection needs first,” Sarsynski said. “Your employer’s benefit package should be a place to start.”■ April - May 2016

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Events In A Box makes planning and hosting social and corporate events a breeze. We take the effort out of throwing a great party or hosting a great event with a wide range of event management services. We ensure high quality results from start to finish ensuring your event stands out in the minds of your guests. From event décor to catering we make hosting your next great event effortless. Whether it’s a wedding or a conference our mission is simple… to design and host the most memorable event for you and your guests to enjoy. Hosting the most memorable events and parties is taxing work. Visiting and negotiating with various vendors, sending invitations, auditioning entertainment are time consuming. People still love attending, reading, and talking about those “they went all-out” awesome events. That’s where Events In A Box comes in. We provide event management services, which allows our clients to highlight their most important moments, products, and accomplish-

ments. From the classic dinner party to the large product launch we step in to plan and host the event. There’s only one contract for our clients to sign, we have caterers, DJs, decorators, entertainers, and other event professionals to make your event stand out. There’s no need to negotiate with multiple vendors, we’ve already done the work. We believe that every event should tell a story from beginning to end.

Having the breadth of event professionals that we do, allows us to not only maintain our high quality standards, but it allows us to ensure the story is being told consistently and accurately. Whether using all of our services or just one, our clients see excellence in everything we do. You and your guests will be amazed at how we can transform the ordinary into extraordinary. It’s been said that “what you don’t celebrate in life will leave”. Don’t let life get in the way of your celebrations, call Events In A Box today at 1(800)211-1607 or Info@events-inabox.com

April - May 2016

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