A LifeStyle Magazine
COMPLIMENTARY February - March 2015
PRINCE GEORGE’s COUNTY
journal
Meet
Pain Management Specialist
Haddis T. Hagos,M.D.
What’s Inside kim kardashian WEST & Hubby “On the Scene!” P. 2
Meet Lane Cobb Speaker, Author P. 3
Why Skin Rejuvenation? P. 13
Red Carpet Event
Photos by: Patricia McDougall
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ake your neighborhood Massage Envy Spa part of your wellness plan. So what does massage have to do with your health? Long-term effects of regular massage can include increased circulation, improved flexibility, reduced blood pressure, muscle pain relief, and a stronger immune system. Add Murad® Healthy Skin facials to your wellness routine and you’ll enjoy healthy, more youthful-looking skin too. Schedule an appointment today and start yourself on the road to wellness at a Massage Envy Spa near you. Our spa provides a full suite of Massage Envy services including: • Murad® Healthy Skin Facials • Sugar Foot Scrub Therapy • Aromatherapy • Deep Muscle Therapy • Hot Stone Envy Massage • Sports Massage • Swedish Massage • Reflexology • Deep Tissue Massage • Cranial Sacral Massage • Trigger Point Massage • Prenatal Massage Massage therapy is beneficial to your body and your mind. It can also help to prevent illness, as well as improve your mood and job performance, which will keep you active throughout the year!
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WELLNESS
LANE COBB SPEAKER, AUTHOR, SPIRITUAL LIFE & WELLNESS COACH Helping women get healthy, be happy, and live well.
BACKGROUND – Lane is certified by Coaches Training Institute, WellCoaches, LLC, and International Coaches Federation. With 20+ years of experience helping women have healthy bodies, healthy relationships, and healthy mindsets, Lane brings a diverse and extensive body of knowledge to her speaking. As a sought-after expert in the fields of transformation, motivation, and healing, Lane is an example to women who seek to ignite their passion, live their purpose and POWERFUL WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS achieve their greatest potential. Lane’s compassionate wisdom reminds women how powerful they are, no matter Lane is internationally certified in the circumstances. As business owners, Lane helped us refine our vision, plot our multiple coaching and healing modalicourse and stay on track. We highly recommend Lane’s services to anyone who ties and is a graduate of Peak Potentials needs reminding of the abundance of good in the universe and their rightful place Train the Trainer Program. Her services within it. ~ LeeAnn Neal, CEO Rocky Intertidal CoCreative include individual and group coaching, virtual seminars, workshops and keyA CHANGE OF MIND notes that provide women with a clear Lane Cobb’s direct style of speaking forced the group to self-evaluate and change and powerful context for living each day with self-reverence, inspired by who they varying types of dysfunctional thinking. She really connected with the audience in a way that they easily understood and motivated them to move forward. are and appreciating what they bring to ~Caprice Smith, CEO Sharper Minds Consultants the world.■
Contact Lane: www.LaneCobb.com / 443-756-8391 4
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
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LowER Back Pain
ower back pain is the most commonly reported pain of all pain types. It is the leading case 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 lower 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
By Haddis T. Hagos, M.D.
“More than twentysix million Americans between the ages of 20-64 experience pain frequently in the lower back...” 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. 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 degrees 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 minimally invasive procedure 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 affecting the spine. The best way to manage back pain is with prevention. Avoiding weight gain and regular exercise would likely reduce the incidence of lower back pain.■
Dr. Haddis Hagos Dr. 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. His office address is 7300 Hanover Drive, Suite 204 Greenbelt, Maryland 20770 & 7500 Greenway Center Drive, Suite 940 Greenbelt, Maryland 20770 Phone: (301) 220-2333 February - March 2015
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Our private consultations are available at no charge. Call and schedule a convenient time and a specialist will assist you. They say alopecia is not a disease, but tell that to those who suffer from it. Alopecia causes hair to fall out from the head and all over the body. Hair loss can be devastating for alopecia patients. If you suffer from: Thinning hair, Hair loss, Alopecia, Chemical damage. Call Hair Fantasy to find out about our natural looking easy care alternatives.
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301-805-4664 www.EnvisionEyeAndLaser.com February - March 2015
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Lose Your Glasses, On Purpose!
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hy do we need glasses? In order to see clearly, light must be focused on a single point on the retina. When this does not happen, we need glasses to help focus the light properly. There are several types of vision that are corrected with glasses. Nearsightedness, which is called myopia, Farsightedness also called hyperopia, Astigmatism, and Presbyopia are all types of refractive error. People who are nearsighted or myopic can see up close. Things that are far away are blurry because the eye is too long and light is actually focused in the middle of the eye. People who are farsighted or hyperopic can see better in the distance because the eye is too short and light is focused behind the eye. Astigmatism occurs because light is focused on multiple points in the eye.
In order to read, the lens which is in the middle of the eye expands to focus light on the retina. As we get older, about the age of 45 years, the lens gets stiffer and less flexible. As the lens becomes less flexible, it gets harder to read because the light is focused behind the retina. 8
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Laser vision correction has been approved by the FDA for 20 years. The technology is so safe and excellent that our fine military approves it for its pilots, soldiers and even NASA astronaut candidates. Now is the time for you to enjoy an active life without glasses.■ SEE OUR AD P. 7
The aging lens become rigid & inflexible, and thus is unable to focus the image at the focus point
All of these problems can be treated so that a person can become less reliant on glasses. Myopia (nearsightedness), mild Hyperopia (Farsightedness) and Astigmatism can be treated with LASIK. With mono-vision LASIK, even presbyopia can be treated. LASIK stands for Laser Assisted Stromal In-situKeratomileusis. This means that a laser is used to reshape the cornea to make it better. Today, physicians utilize an “all laser” approach to performing LASIK surgery. This two-step process utilizes the Intralase® method of flap creation with Wave Front CustomVue treatment to deliver a very precise vision correction. With this advanced technology, our surgeons can identify and measure imperfections in an individual’s vision 25 times more precisely than standard methods used for glasses and contact lenses. By using the latest state-of-the-art technologies such as Intralase® and VisxCustomVue lasers, the Envision Eye & Laser Center in Glenn Dale, Maryland can increase your chances of a successful laser eye surgery and make the procedure available to a large number of candidates who did not previously qualify for vision correction procedures. Our professionalism is appreciated by our patients who have benefited from the rewarding effects of laser eye surgery.
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In order to see clearly, light must be focused on a single point on the retina. When this does not happen, we need glasses” Dr. Renee Bovelle “Your Best Vision is Our Focus”
12200 Annapolis Rd., Suite 116 Glenn Dale, MD 20769 301-805-4664 www.EnvisionEyeAndLaser.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Research Links Gum Disease to Heart Attack Dr. Peter Merai & Michelle Merai, D.D.S.
{ Are you embarrassed by missing, broken or decaying teeth?
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hy should I be concerned about my oral health? Researchers are finding possible links between periodontal infections and other diseases throughout the body. Studies suggest that there may be a link among periodontal (e.g. gum) disease, heart disease and other health conditions. In fact, research suggests that gum disease may be a more serious risk factor for heart disease than hypertension, smoking, cholesterol, gender and age. Studies suggest that people who have gum disease seem to be at a higher risk for heart attacks. Your oral health affects your overall health, but the studies that will find exactly why these problems are linked are still underway. How can gum disease affect my overall health? The current theory is that bacteria present in infected gums can come loose and move throughout the body. The same bacteria that causes gum disease and irritates your gums might travel to your arteries. Researchers are unsure what causes the bacteria to become mobile, but it has been suggested that bacteria can be dislodged and enter the bloodstream during tasks as simple as brushing, flossing or even chewing. Research shows that risk varies according to the level of gum infection. The worse the infection, the more likely the bacteria are to become bloodborne. Infected gums bleed, making it easier for bacteria to enter your bloodstream. If bacteria become dislodged, the bacteria enter through cuts or sores in your mouth and travel to other parts of the body through your bloodstream.
6188 Oxon Hill Road., Suite 410, Oxon Hill, MD 20745 / 301-567-9844
Once bacteria reaches the arteries, they can irritate them in the same way that they irritate gum tissue. This could cause arterial plaque to accumulate in the arteries, which can cause hardening and block blood flow. Compromised blood flow to your heart can cause a heart attack. Also, arterial plaque can come loose and travel to other parts of the body. If blockage occurs in the brain, it can cause a stroke. Your dentist may use a special rinse immediately after dental procedures to neutralize these bacteria, but your best protection is to maintain a healthy mouth. What should you do? Keep your mouth healthy. See your dentist at least twice a year for periodic maintenance. Although gum disease can often show few or no symptoms at all, watch for gums that are red and irritated, or
gums that bleed easily. There are many new treatments available to control and help reverse gum disease. Always remember that gum disease is caused by plaque buildup. Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque that you can’t see below the gumline and remember to schedule regular check-ups. If you remove the plaque, you minimize the chance for getting gum disease. If you have any questions about your oral health, ask your dentist.■Source: Academy of General Dentistry
Dr. Merai coupon offers (coupons cannot be combined)
1) Free Cleaning for adults 55 and older (not for periodontal disease) 2) Best fitting basic dentures $1250 each 3) Free comprehensive exam including Free full set of digital low radiation computerized x rays (normally $200) February - March 2015
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Chronic Pelvic Pain Caused by Vascular Conditions
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By The Physicians at Center for Vascular Medicine
y some estimates, chronic pelvic pain in women accounts for 10-15% of all gynecologic visits. There may be several causes or contributing factors to chronic pelvic pain; vascular conditions are often overlooked. Vascular conditions that cause pelvic pain in women can be diagnosed easily and in a non-invasive manner. Once identified, they can be further evaluated by venography and treated successfully with outpatient-based endovascular techniques.
Causes For Pelvic Pain in Women Pelvic pain is most often caused by a variety of non-vascular conditions: Gastrointestinal, Urinary, Reproductive or Musculoskeletal/other After these more common causes for pelvic pain have been ruled out, one should consider further vascular evaluation. Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS): PCS is most commonly characterized by chronic pain in the pelvic region, caused by venous reflux and poor blood flow in the pelvic veins. May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS): MTS is caused by a compression of the iliac vein. MTS may or may not have pelvic pain, but generally will have varicose veins and/or swelling in one leg (typically the left leg). Signs and Symptoms Many patients with PCS and MTS will experience no symptoms. However, chronic pelvic pain is the most common. Because pelvic pain can present with other conditions, it is important to rule those out prior to the diagnosis. The PCS and MTS common symptoms include: • Chronic pelvic pain, experienced for six or more months. • Pain that is constant or intermittent. • Pain that is dull, achy, in the lower abdomen, pelvic region or lower back. • Pain that generally worsens as the day progresses, particularly with pro-longed sitting or standing. • Pain during sex Both PCS and MTS are more common in women who have had multiple births. How Is Pelvic Pain Diagnosed? Diagnostic testing is minimally invasive and generally pain free. Several techniques may be used: Pelvic ultra10
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sound, Venography (x-ray of the veins), and Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) Treatment For Chronic Pelvic Pain The most conservative and least invasive treatments are most desirable to restore optimal blood flow and relieve pelvic pain. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Treatment options may include: Embolization therapy – generally involves injecting a sclerosing agent into the vein. This results in the closing of the affected vein, with blood flow being naturally rerouted into healthier veins. Treatment is very similar to sclerotherapy in the legs. Venoplasty and Stenting – a majority of women diagnosed with MTS will undergo a minimally invasive procedure to place a stent in the compressed iliac vein. Using intravascular ultrasound, the physician will guide a catheter through the vein in the leg and into the pelvic region allowing precise measurement. If necessary, a balloon and stent may be placed into the vein to keep the vein open. Bypass surgery – in very rare cases, a bypass surgery may be the best option to restore proper blood flow in the pelvic region.■
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Hypothyroidism
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nown as the master gland, the butterfly-shaped thyroid sits in a notch just below your throat. Its hormones affect many systems and functions, including: Metabolism, Brain development, Blood cells production, Muscle and bone strength, Breathing, heart & nervous system functions, Menstrual cycle, Weight gain and loss, Cholesterol levels, Body temperature, Skin hydration.
and depressed mood, Joint and muscle pain, headaches, Dry skin, brittle nails, Brittle hair, itchy scalp, hair loss, Irregular periods, PMS symptoms, Calcium metabolism difficulties, Difficulty tolerating cold and lower body temperature, Constipation, Sleeping more than average, Diminished sex drive, Puffiness in face and extremities, Bruising/clotting problems, Allergies that suddenly appear or get worse, Persistent cold sores, boils or breakouts, Tingling sensation
By Thomas K. Lo, MA, DC in wrists & hands that mimics carpal tunnel syndrome, Memory loss, fuzzy thinking, difficulty following conversation/train of thought. If you suffer from any of the above symptoms call us for a free consultation or come to one of our FREE lectures to find out the probable causes of hypo - thyroidism. For more information or to register please call us at (410) 721-3338.■
So it makes sense that thyroid imbalances can make your life seem entirely off-kilter. The most common form of thyroid imbalances is hypothyroidism. It occurs when your thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormone to support your daily activities. Women often call us because they are feeling thyroid symptoms, but have been told by their doctors that “everything looks fine.” tyroid-related issues can arise at any age and may not necessarily show up on routine lab tests. Subclinical hypothyroidism is a term used when someone is experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism but whose blood test results are still in the “normal range” for thyroid hormone production. The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism vary widely, depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. But in general, any problems you do have tend to develop slowly, often over a number of years. At first, you may barely notice the symptoms, such as fatigue and sluggishness, or you may simply attribute them to getting older. But as your metabolism continues to slow, you may develop more obvious signs and symptoms. They may include: Severe fatigue, loss of energy, Weight gain, difficulty losing weight, Depression February - March 2015
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Updates in Breast Screening
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By Ali Kashif, MD
n the United States, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women of all races. Unfortunately, it is also the second leading cause of cancer death in this gender population. In 2013, it was estimated that over 230,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and over 64,000 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer (an early form of breast cancer) were diagnosed in this country. This will lead to about 40,000 deaths from breast cancer. This makes breast cancer the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, and the second leading cause of cancer related death in women. In their lifetime, about 1 in 8 (12%) women in the US will develop invasive breast cancer. This is a very chilling statistic, which makes early screening and detection only that much more important. Breast cancers that are discovered at earlier stages have a much higher chance of cure and survival. The key is to find cancer before any symptoms can occur.
According to the American Cancer Society, breast exams by your doctor should be every three years for women in their 20s and 30s. The frequency of these breast exams by your health care provider should increase to every year at the age of 40. Yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40. These should be continued as long as the person is in good health. Self breast exams are an option for women starting in their 20s. If any suspected abnormalities are noted, this should be brought to the attention of your doctor. There are some women who have a very strong family history and certain genetic mutations that run in their family. These patients may need a MRI in addition to mammograms. 12
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The genetic mutation linked to the development of breast and ovarian cancer is called the BRCA mutation. Women carrying this mutation have up to an 80% risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetimes. The BRCA mutation is detected through a blood test collected at your doctor’s office or a lab. Not every women needs to be tested for this mutation. Possible women who qualify for BRCA mutation testing by Ali KaShif, MD.■ Updates in Breast Screening WJ healthy lifestyles include those with a personal or family history of: • Breast cancer diagnosed at age 50 or younger • Ovarian cancer at any age • Two separate breast cancers in the same person, or two family members with breast cancers on the same side of the family • Male breast cancer • Triple negative type of breast cancer (meaning breast cancer carrying no receptors to target) • Pancreatic cancer and a breast or ovarian cancer in the same person, or on the same side of the family • Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancers • Two or more relatives with breast cancer, one under age 50 • Three or more relatives with breast cancer at any age • A previously identified BRCA mutation in any member of the family.
Ali Kashif, MD
Dr. Kashif Ali earned his MD Degree from Ross University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at the 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. Dr. Ali is available to see patients in Hematology and Oncology.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
February - March 2015
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
How to Recognize, Prevent, and Stop Bullying
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By Dr. Janet V. Johnson
ullying is a long-standing problem; fortunately schools are now doing more to address the problem. The problem may involve physical aggression, abusive language, threats, and social or psychological abuse. This form of violent behavior should always be taken seriously. Bullies often seek power over others and can achieve it through physical aggression and intimidation tactics. They may use their physical size, age, social status, gender, gang members, acquaintances, families and other means of influence to gain power over others. Recognizing Acts of Bullying and Aggression: Bullying can take several forms: it can be observable or secretive behavior. Observable Behavior: • Intimidation and threats • Name-calling, insults, and comments about disability, gender, and race • Teasing about personal characteristics or sexual harassment • Physical assault, tripping, hitting, a pinch and other physical abuse • Destruction of property, demanding money or other possessions Secretive Behavior: • Rejecting, excluding, and isolating victims from others • Spreading rumors and other public humiliation • Manipulating friends and relationships, passive aggression • Passing damaging notes or posting threatening or damaging e-mails or web material • Blackmailing, harassment, and dangerous dares What Can Happen if Bullying Is Not Stopped: Left unaddressed, bullying over time can cause depression and lasting psychological damage or injury to the victim. It can result in poor attendance or psychosomatic illnesses such as chronic headaches or stomach pains to name a few. Violence can escalate into serious property damage and injuries to students and adults. Catastrophic incidents of bullying and school violence are becoming more concerning with the rise in bullying related suicides. In our society, however, it is critical that all
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these incidents be addressed by your child’s school, physicians and parents. And that preventative measures to protect the children are in place before the problem escalates into serious injury. Because school culture and climate are important in maintaining safe schools, it is best practice for schools to implement bullying prevention programs as primary prevention before a problem emerges. Several ways parents/guardians can help prevent and stop bullying is by being educated about what bullying is, knowing how to spot the signs of bullying, and learning what to do if your child is affected by this behavior. Parents can be prepared to address bullying if and when it happens. Here’s What You Need to Know about Bullying in
Schools: Understand the definition of bullying - Know that bullying is aggressive behavior that is intentional. It’s important for parents to fully understand that bullying is not just “kids being kids”—it is assault and aggression that should not be tolerated. Learn how to spot the signs that your child may be a victim - Unexplained injury, refusal to go to school, drop in school performance. Learn how to prevent and stop bullying - Keep an open line of communication with your child, keep up with what is going on in their lives. Talk to them about bullying and discuss what they should do if they are a victim of bullying or if they witness it happen to another person. continued on page 30
Loving Care Pediatrics: Dr. Johnson and Staff accepting new patients, birth to age 21
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Childhood Obesity
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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
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Obese youth are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.” 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 behaviors. 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 – T: 202-291-0147 February - March 2015
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BUSINESS
The 13th Man
Equipping Young Men for Life’s “Starting Lineup”
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By E. Davon Kelly
very so often, a situation occurs that brings back a memory, a lesson, or a person that had an impact in my life. One of those people is Mr. Thompson. Mr. Thompson is the reason I started playing basketball and still play today. When I was 9 years old, Mr. Thompson asked my mom if I could accompany him on his morning paper route after school was dismissed for the summer. I was up before the sun as he picked me up each morning promptly at 6 AM. Every day we would toss papers and chat about a whole host of subjects until about 7:30 AM, when Mr. Thompson would go to his job as the basketball camp director at the Seat Pleasant Recreation Center. It was there that I would spend my days until 5 PM, when he would drop me off back at home, just in time for my parents to arrive home from work. I rode with Mr. Thompson for two full summers and my daily reward was 8 hours at the gym. (What could be better than that?) There, I learned the value of discipline—as well as getting an early start to the day! During our rides, I learned how to converse intelligently with adults. At the rec center, I learned about basketball. I learned the importance of playing team sports – a lesson that has benefited me greatly in business and in general ever since. (Kelly, E. Davon. 2014. From Courtside to the Boardroom: A Legacy in the Making. Createspace Independent Publishing) For a young man, being a part of a team is bigger than the sport. The team provides a support system that includes teammates, coaches and fans, all of whom encourage and cheer for the player’s success. More importantly, it is a constructive use of afterschool time. For example, a basketball team is comprised of 12 players: five starters and seven other players – some who will warm the bench all season. But at least they are on the bench instead of sitting on the sidelines! Then, there’s the 13th man who has decent skills, has practiced all year, goes through final cuts – and does not make the team. Or the potential 13th man who does not even try out for the team content to sit on the sidelines, believing that he wouldn’t have been selected, even if he had
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“For a young man, being a part of a team is bigger than the sport.” tried. What does he do from 3:30 to 5:30? Where does he go? Who provides the support needed to develop the 13th man? So much of life is about the approach. Nothing can be truer when considering the development of young men. Self-esteem and motivation become critical factors in determining the paths that these men will take in their lives. That’s why I developed the 13th Man. The 13th Man employs mentors from both the sports and business worlds to create a community that develops character and leadership skills. How Can Mentorship Programs Help? I know the statistics are true. I’m a living example. There were a lot of 13th Men in my neighborhood. Kids who were just as talented as me, but did not have the support system that organized sports provided. Many dropped out or did not live up to their potential. However, students who meet regularly with a mentor are:
BUSINESS •
52% less likely than their peers to skip a day of school and 37% less likely to skip a class. • 46% less likely than their peers to start using illegal drugs and 27% less likely to start drinking. • Mentoring also increases chances of going on to higher education, school performance, self-esteem and self-confidence; and decreases risky behavior. (Source: www.mentoring.org) The Secret Sauce: Sports According to a study conducted by economists John M. Barron and Glen R. Waddell of Purdue University and Bradley T. Ewing of Texas Tech University, high school athletes achieved a level of education 25 to 35 percent higher than their non-athlete classmates; high school athletes had 12 to 31 percent higher wages than their non-athlete counterparts; and college graduates who were high school athletes generally earned more than the non-athletes. (Source: http://blog.coachdeck.com/2011/01). The 13th Man is dedicated to nurturing the growth of men ages 12-17. By participating in a variety of activities and programs throughout the year, young men learn that preparation and dedication become an active way of life; no longer
will the 13th Man sit on the sidelines and feel as if they do not have the opportunity to engage. These young men will be challenged to let go of doubt and be free to succeed. The 13th Man will hold a five-day summer camp, the Annual 13th Man Summer Classics, in July 2015 to include a Concentration Track that will enable them to focus on an area of interest: Personal and Professional Development Track, Sports, Entre preneurial Track, and Arts and Entertainment. Do you agree with our mission? You can help support our cause by participating in a variety of ways: • Sponsor a 13th Man • Sponsor the Summer Classics Award Dinner • Attend the Summer Classics Award Dinner • Volunteer to work with students during the Summer Classics • Buy a book; all proceeds from From Courtside to the Boardroom: A Legacy in the Making benefit the 13th Man. (Available at Amazon.com) I still have mentors, in fact two of my business mentors serve on the board of the 13thMan. There is still a lot to learn and even more to share. For more information, visit the13thman.org, ‘Like’ us on our Facebook Page.■
February - March 2015
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BUSINESS
Fed’s Lower Mortgage Insurance Increasing Your Buying Power Green Home Realty, LLC - 3725 Leonardtown Rd., Suite 201, Waldorf, MD 20601
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info@greenhomerealtyMD.com / www.greenhomerealtymd.com / 301-932-7387
hinking of purchasing a home in 2015? Well now is the time. With more home buyer programs available—not only designated for first-time buyers to the federal government’s announcement about lower mortgage insurance premium (MIP) rates— you couldn’t have picked a better time to make that decision. On January 26th new home purchasers utilizing a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan will be happy to learn that their preapproved loan amount could increase pretty sustainably. This is also great news for current homeowners with a FHA backed loan; they can refinance their current loan and reduce their mortgage by as much as $100 (based on your current loan amount). More excitedly, with home values increasing in our area, homeowners may now be in a better position to sell their current home and purchase another home or relocate sooner than expected. This is great news and very exciting for the housing industry because interest rates are still at an all-time low. At Green Home Realty we are happy to lend a hand to help guide you in the right direction. Call us to learn more and explore all your options. We can also help direct you to a well-qualified lender to assist you with refinancing your home. Potential buyers should immediately grab the telephone and give us a ring. There are programs with as much as $20,000 to help you purchase a home—or increase your purchasing power—that work directly in conjunction with the low interest rates and the reduced MIP. It’s the right time of year to get qualified and get started since homeowners are preparing their homes to sell this spring. The professionals at Green Home Realty are here to help you get started right now. CALL 301-932-7387 or visit us online at www.GreenHomeRealtyMD.com.■
First time homebuyers can join us at a homebuyer’s workshop to learn about the process from beginning to end as well as ask questions such as: • Should I buy a fixer upper • What is a short sale • What’s the difference between a foreclosed home and a regular sale • What credit score will I need to qualify for a home • I’ve had a short sale, can I buy again • How long will I have to wait until I can purchase again after a foreclosure
Every question you may have will be answered and a few that you didn’t know about. Join us in Charles County - February 7th& 21st Saint Mary’s County - March 7th& 14th Prince George’s County - May 9th& 23rd Call the office or visit our Facebook page at Green Home Realty for more information and to register. Feel free to post your questions on Twitter before the workshop and we’ll be happy to answer them @GreenHomeRealty. “We use every avenue to get your home sold. Our maximum exposure, pool of qualified buyers and outstanding customer service sets us apart from the rest. To go from on the market to sold in less than 60 days you should be listing with Green Home Realty.”
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UNDERSTANDING CREMATION AND ITS OPTIONS Wiseman Funeral Home, establish 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 funeral trust and Medicaid spend downs. We are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Wiseman Funeral Home & Chapel
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lease allow me to first say thank you. It has been my pleasure to take your phone calls and e-mails, as you seek further information on the subject matter discussed in these articles. I am fully aware that Death Care is not an easy read. It becomes that much more difficult when you ponder the thought of your mortality or that of someone you love. However, preplanning is vitally important. I commend you for pressing beyond your natural aversion and seeing the value and educational benefit. I am committed to being as transparent and precise as I possibly can. However, my words on paper are limited. CREMATION & ITS OPTIONS According to industry statistics, human cremation is trending right now. Some of the most common reasons for this trend are: 1. Personal choice 2. The lifted taboo of religion 3. The inability to fund traditional funeral service and burial No matter what your reasons for cremation are you should be familiar with the options afforded to you. The first option: Direct Cremation This option is the most economical. It will cost on average $950 $2,500 depending on the firm and cash advance items you select. With
Michelle Reese-Wiseman, Owner/Principal Mortician 7531 Old Alexandria Ferry Road, Clinton, Maryland 301-899-2005 / michelle@wisemanfuneralhome.net
“According to industry statistics, human cremation is trending right now.” this choice the services you can expect to receive are: professional services of funeral director and staff, transportation of remains from the place of death, one (1) family member’s positive identification of the deceased and cremation. No services, no visitations, and no ceremonial rites. Cremation with a Memorial Service This option will cost you between $2,500 - $4,500 and includes professional services of funeral director and staff, transportation of remains, cremation and a memorial service without the body present. In most all cases a memorial table is set up with an urn (not included in the price), flowers, family photos and other memorabilia of the deceased. Traditional Funeral Service followed by Cremation Costs between $2,700 - $5,500 and includes professional services of
funeral director and staff, transportation of remains from the place of death, embalming, dressing & casketing (your option to rent or purchase a casket for a fee), wake, funeral service in funeral chapel or church and a hearse. This option allows you to celebrate and honor the life of your loved one with cremation immediately following. It is the most popular of the three choices and offers, in my opinion, the greatest amount of closure for families. These are all ballpark prices for cremation and will vary from firm to firm. The pricing listed serves as an idea of what you might expect to pay for cremation. Additionally, if death occurs in DC or Virginia, be prepared for the Medical Examiner’s Cremation Stamp of Approval fee. In DC the cost is $75 and in Virginia, the cost is $50. These are solid fees and are non-negotiable. Other costs incurred might be death certificates, flowers, funeral programs, limousines and an urn. Contrary to a widely held belief, inurnment (burial) is an option for cremated remains. This practice is common of veterans and their spouses who qualify for free burial. However, most all cemeteries will offer inurnment for a fee. I hope this has been helpful to you. Knowledge is power. You can be prepared. For more information please feel free to contact me.■ February - March 2015
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BUSINESS
Why Traditional Estate Planning May Not Be the Answer B N L
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ost estate planning lawyers, accountants, and financial advisors in the field of traditional estate planning are taught only two things: protect the clients’ material wealth from the evils of probate and taxes. Now let me ask you, just as a reality check, how do most people actually plan their estates? In our experience, they either do nothing or they create a simple Will to look after a lifetime of work and savings. But let’s face it, traditional estate planning ignores some of the most important issues, such as, what happens if you become disabled during life, or at the time those assets get passed on, how they will impact the surviving spouse, the kids or the grandkids. Traditionally, estate planners forgot to address issues that ended up being more divisive than even taxes and court matters. Families are often split apart by disputes about who gets the family photos or who had dibs on mom’s pie plate. More tragically, these ineffective plans dumped assets on the kids only to see them wiped out by divorces, where up to half of the family’s wealth is carted off by a departing spouse that nobody liked anyway. Also, the surviving spouse and kids were left exposed to lawsuits and creditor claims. Finally, many families felt guilty over the fact that they never took the time to capture the memories, wisdom, and life stories of their parents before they were lost. If I ask any of you today, what do you value most in your life? Clients tell us it’s their family, health, friends, values, skills, and relationships. What was the biggest investment you ever made in your life? Here’s a clue, it’s not a financial asset. It’s the time, energy, love and commitment you invested in instilling the
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values that were handed down from generation to generation. My goal as your estate planning attorney is to introduce you to a more holistic view of family wealth, something more than just our finances. Now that you understand the components of a Legacy Wealth Plan, we need to look at some technical issues. For those of you who have been procrastinating up until now, it’s important for you to understand why effective estate planning should be a big priority for you. And for those of you who already have a plan, we’ll explain why we believe most traditional estate plans don’t work. It’s very simple. After practicing law for quite some time, our experience is that most estate plans we see are poorly drafted, and don’t protect families from real life issues like the prospect of losing everything due to nursing home costs. They are not properly funded. Clients did not take the time and effort to change the title of their assets to the name of the trust. Also, most plans are not properly maintained by the clients. They don’t reflect changes in the law or incorporate new estate planning strategies. This is true whether you have a simple or complex Will, or whether you have a “bare bones” Living Trust, or some other document. With many people getting remarried after the death of a spouse, we find very few plans that protect the assets of the original family from a new spouse and their children. Finally, traditional estate planning never captures the legacy of your family! At SinclairProsser Law, I can discuss with you all the features that should be in a properly drafted estate plan that will protect your “total wealth” and enable it to be passed down to generations to come.■
icole
ivingston
March 2015 SEMINAR SCHEDULE Waldorf Tuesday, March 3rd 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Continental Breakfast) Hilton Garden Inn Waldorf 10385 O’Donnell Place Chesapeake Beach Wednesday, March 4th 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Continental Breakfast) Rod ‘N’ Reel Waterfront 4160 Mears Avenue Bowie Thursday, March 5th 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. (Refreshments) Comfort Inn US 50, US 301 @ MD 3
Edgewater
Friday, March 6th 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Continental Breakfast) Historic London Town & Gardens Pavilion 839 Londontown Road Annapolis Saturday, March 7th 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Continental Breakfast) Double Tree Hotel Annapolis 210 Holiday Court For more info: 410-573-4818
BUSINESS
Refund Season or Tax Season
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his time of year is eagerly anticipated by some but dreaded by most. While a handful of taxpayers are impatiently ready to visit the “tax man” the majority of us are not as enthusiastic. However, that does not have to be the case. Knowing your numbers is important and can be the difference between a refund and a tax bill. At Green Family Tax we educate our clients about their tax liability and penalties in a manner that’s easy to understand. We begin by insuring our clients are aware of how their dollars are taxed and withheld during the year. Below is the 2014 tax bracket diagram that reveals how your earnings are taxed by the federal government. Use it as a guide to help gauge your expected tax obligations based on your income. Understanding how your income is viewed with regard to your filing status will allow you to determine what your expected tax obligations are roughly each year. This information gives you an opportunity to have slightly less taxes deducted from your wage and earnings statement or paycheck every two weeks, putting more money into your bank account each month and still giving you a refund at the end of the year. Additionally, the chart below can assist you when determining if you need to have a tad bit more withheld from your pay throughout the year to reduce your tax liability at year’s end. This information is published at the IRS.gov website in October each year. The federal government has published the 2015 tax rate chart which can be found on the IRS website or we’ll be happy to provide you with a user friendly version by e-mail. Providing tools like this is just one of the many ways Green Family Tax & Financial Services supports our clients. We not only assist with your taxes at the end of the year by helping you get the maximum return possible, we also show you how to reduce your tax withholdings during the year and help you keep more money in your pocket. A common myth we address year after year surrounds the qualification for the Earned Income Credit. Several taxpayers fail to receive it due to a lack of understanding the
IRS guidelines surrounding claiming the credit. We’re determined to guarantee you achieve the maximum refund possible including any EIC amount for which you qualify. Below is a guideline to help you understand how the IRS calculates the refund amount and determines who is eligible for the credit. This is just one of many specific verification criteria required; however with the experts at Green Family Tax & Financial Services, the maximum credit possible will be applied. The first Rule to determine if you can take the Earned Income Tax Credit (EIC) is whether your income falls within the following guidelines? $46,997 ($52,427 for married filing jointly) if you have three or more qualifying children, $43,756 ($49,186 for married filing jointly) if you have two qualifying children, $38,511 ($43,941 for married filing jointly) if you have one qualifying child, or $14,590 ($20,020 for married filing jointly) if you do not have a qualifying child. With the help and guidance from the professionals at Green Family Tax you’ll find yourself referring to tax season as “Refund Season”—no longer dreading April 15th. Call us to get started immediately. At Green Family Tax & Financial Services we assure you will receive your return faster with e-File. No need to wait for your W-2, use your last paycheck stub to file today. Don’t wait, call (866) 2221622 to make your appointment now. GREEN FAMILY TAX & FINANCIAL SERVICES TRUSTED ADVISORS. TRUSTED ADVICE. YOUR BOTTOM LINE IS OUR HIGHEST PRIORITY When you file your taxes with Green Family Tax & Financial Services you’ll not only receive the expertise of 24 years tax preparation experience, but you’ll also receive a FREE Android tablet AND $50 for every referral.■ February - March 2015
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BUSINESS
Open Enrollment and Maximizing Your Employee Benefits Prevent Your 401k From Going To A 201k! hen the 2008 financial crisis came along, many people saw their 401k investment balances drop 20%-50% in 3 months. That financial crisis was unprecedented, our financial system was in jeopardy of collapsing and the economic recovery has been slow ever since. Many investors had their retirement dates delayed because of the decrease in account value or thier retirement has started prematurely because of downsizing by their employer. So what have you done differently as an investor to prevent another 20% -50% decrease in your 401k? A decrease of 50% can take 5-7 years for your portfolio to recover. Most 401k participants are not aware that there are two types of investment philosophies; Buy and Hold/Passive Investment management and Active Investment management. The Passive Investment strategy holds investments in up and down trending markets. Often times the exposure to up and down trending markets exposes them to too much volatility and investors often sell their investments and move to a cash position because they’re no longer comfortable, which may prevent them from earning positive returns. Active Investment management, on the other hand, creates a set of rules for when to buy investments and move out of investments if or when they decrease by certain percentages. This allows investors to match their portfolio with the amount of volatility they are willing to experience. Consider meeting with an Investment Advisor that can help
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you create an investment strategy that will define a maximum drawdown you’re willing to experience in your portfolio so that you can sleep better at night. When an investor is able to stay within their investment comfort level, they are more likely to stay invested which gives them the higher probability to generate a positive investment return. As you approach your retirement timeframe it will be helpful to minimize your risk so your principal can recover faster from a stock market decrease. How Much Should You Contribute to your 401k? You may often hear that an investor should invest at least what their company matches in their 401k plan which averages anywhere from 3-6% of an individual’s salary. When incorporating how much of a lump sum an investor has to accumulate in order to withdraw their retirement income, investing 3%-6% of your salary may not accumulate the lump sum needed to withdrawal a retirement income that can continue to you match your retirement lifestyle. You also have to consider other income streams you’ll receive in retirement and at what age. Receiving pension income is not as certain as it was 20 years ago. With a lot of state, city, and corporate pensions underfunded there is a risk of pension cuts occurring in order for them to continue, contributing the right amount to your 401k is even more important. People have relied on social security and pensions in the past as primary retirement income streams but as the Baby Boomer population retires they put financial stress on those systems to continue to pay
out. Contributing more to your 401k can make a difference as this illustration can reflect; An individual age 50, grossing $100,000 salary, has a 15 year goal until retirement, averages net 6% on investments, and 4% withdrawal rate in retirement; • @6% ($6,000) of salary/year – $146,136 in 15 years, $487/month in retirement • @10% ($10,000) of salary/year $243,463 in 15 years, $811/month in retirement • @ maximum contribution of $22,500/year - $548,011, $1,826/ month in retirement There are significant tax benefits that are possible by making large contributions that can lower your income taxes and make more cash flow available. Consult with a Financial Planner and Investment Advisor to find how much you need to contribute to satisfy your income needs and the tax benefit you’ll receive. Small Business Owners Can save the Most Business owners are the backbone of the US economy and they enjoy many tax deductions for deploying products, services, employment, and capital into the economy. One of the major tax benefits small business owners can receive is investing towards their own retirement since they are solely responsible for, and cannot depend on another entity for their retirement needs. Business owners have the ability to transfer a percentage of their business profits to further diversify the wealth their business
BUSINESS is generating. They can contribute anywhere from $52,000 to $267,000/ year depending on the amount of employees and the business entity. As a business owner, it’s important to work with an Investment Advisor to determine risk tolerance, retirement goals, and suitable investment strategies. Working with a Financial Planner/Investment Advisor can also help identify which vehicles make the most sense. As an investment vehicle for either an employee or business owner, a 401k is a proven way to gain significant retirement income. Because of a myriad of choices, working working with a professional can optimize returns, minimize fears all the while putting money to work for you.â–
Ridley Wealth Strategies
301-982-0014
www.investingwithrwspresents.com
D. Ridley
7815 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770 301-982-0014 (Office) dridley@ridleywealthstrategies.com www.ridleywealthstrategies.com
February - March 2015
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Professional Connections Section ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Annapolis Integrative Medicine (410) 266-3613 Alan Weiss, M.D. 1819 Bay Ridge Ave., Suite 200 Annapolis, MD 21403
EYE CARE Envision Eye & Laser Center (301) 805-4664 Dr. Renee Bovelle, M.D. 12200 Annapolis Rd., Suite 116 Glenn Dale, MD 20769
Indigo Integrative Health Clinic (202) 298-9131 Dr. Isabel Sharkar, N.D. 1010 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 660 Washington, DC
FINANCIAL Ridley Wealth Strategies (301) 982-0014 Damon Ridley 7815 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770
BEAUTY Garner’s Garden Handmade 100% All Natural Skin Care 10% off Coupon Code: 10OFF20 www.garnersgarden.com Hair Fantasy (301) 441-1101 Anita Hampton 7219 Hanover Pkwy. Suite C Greenbelt, MD 20770 CATERING/PERSONAL CHEF Go Cook Vegan (301) 887-7901 www.gocookvegan.com CYBER SECURITY Med Cyber-Security, LLC (301) 266-2457 Rob Campbell, MSCS, BSET, Security+, HIT www.medcybersecurity.com DENTAL Dr. Peter & Michelle Merai, D.D.S. (301) 567-9844 6188 Oxon Hill Rd., Suite 410 Oxon Hill, MD 20745
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FUNERAL SERVICES Wiseman Funeral Home & Chapel (301) 899-2005 Michelle Reese-Wiseman 7531 Old Alexandria Ferry Rd. Clinton, MD 20735 HEALTH COACHING Lane Cobb (443) 756-8391 Lane Cobb www.lanecobb.com LEGAL Sinclair Prosser Law, LLC (301) 970-8080 Colleen Sinclair Prosser 14300 Gallant Fox La., Suite 204 Bowie, MD 20715 PAIN MANAGEMENT Washington Metro Pain Institute (301) 220-2333 Haddis T. Hagos, M.D. 7300 Hanover Dr. Suite 204 Greenbelt, MD 20770
PEDIATRICS Frederick Corder, MD FAAP Bowie, MD (301) 805-2229 Cheverly, MD (301) 341-7494 Loving Care Pediatrics (301) 403-8808 Dr. Janet Johnson, M.D. 3311 Toledo Terrace, Suite C-201 Hyattsville, MD 20782 SPAS Adoro Medical Spa (410) 647-0123 Elba M. Pacheco, M.D. www.myeyelids.com Massage Envy Spa – Bowie (301) 364-3400 9300 Woodmore Center Dr., Suite 501 Lanham, MD 20706 Massage Envy Spa – College Park (301) 313-0555 10260 Baltimore Ave. College Park, MD 20740 Massage Envy Spa – Pikesville (410) 580-0505 3755 Old Court Rd. Baltimore, MD 21208 WOMEN’S HEALTH Women’s Wellness Center (443) 380-0060 Chetanna Okasi, M.D. 9501 Old Annapolis Rd., Suite 305 Ellicott City, MD 21042
Cyber-Attack and Your Business
BUSINESS
By Rob Campbell
Are you protecting your Customers’ data? n 2014, according to Identity Theft Resource Center Breach Report (2014) businesses, educational institutions, medical/ healthcare industry experienced 783 reported data breaches resulting in 85,611,528 records being compromised. If massive data breaches can impact Sony, University of Maryland, Staples, Walgreens, Union Labor Life Insurance Company, Prince George’s County Public School System, Johns Hopkins University, Quest Diagnostics, Maryland Health Benefit Exchange, Home Depot, Target, Neiman Marcus, Shoppers, Dairy Queen, Jimmy Johns, Goodwill Industries, JC Penney, Bank of America, J.P. Morgan Chase, eBay, large healthcare organizations and many others that have not reported or have no knowledge they been breached, then how safe is your small- or medium-sized business? If your organization stores, transmits or processes customer credit, debit and ATM cards, Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance is mandatory. If you suffer a breach and aren’t in compliance, you could be fined from $50,000 to $500,000 and be required to regularly conduct expensive third-party audits of your information security. Organizations that fail to comply with the PCI DSS potentially could suffer the loss of customer confidence and the ability to accept credit cards for payment. In order to be in compliance with the PCI-DSS you need to satisfy six basic requirements in information security:
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1. Build and Maintain a Secure Network. 2. Protect Cardholder Data. 3. Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program. 4. Implement Strong Access Control Measures. 5. Regularly Monitor and Test Networks. 6. Maintain an Information Security Policy. Are you protecting your Patients’ data? There are many news reports of cyber-attacks against healthcare providers and other businesses both small and large. The loss or compromise of personal information can not only result in financial sanctions but also in negative public relations. What is HIPAA and the HITECH Act? • The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) mandates that patient medical records and other healthcare information be protected against security breaches and unauthorized use or disclosure. • The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act has clarified and supplemented HIPAA requirements by raising the financial penalties in cases of non-compliance. What are the consequences of non-compliance? Covered entities that fail to voluntarily comply with HIPAA compliance standards may be subject to civil money penalties. Penalties range from
$100 to $50,000 or more per violation. In addition, certain violations of the standards may be subject to criminal prosecution. A person who knowingly obtains or discloses individually identifiable health information in violation of the standards may face a criminal penalty of up to $50,000 and up to one-year imprisonment. 5 EHR Security Risk Analysis Myths and Facts? Here is where most IT professionals and office managers get lost: continued on page 30
Rob Campbell (P): 301-266-2457 (F): 301-805-4663
rc@medcybersecurity.com Website: www.medcybersecurity.com
Robert Campbell is the CEO of Med Cyber Security, a Maryland based consulting firm that performs security and penetration testing for healthcare providers and other businesses. Robert received his Master in Computer Science with a concentration in software engineering and space systems engineering from the elite Naval Post Graduate School. He is also a healthcare certified information technologist. Robert formed Med Cyber-Security to empower physicians, healthcare organizations and practitioners to protect patient’s data and their own practices. Allow Med Cyber-Security to partner with you to help keep you compliant with HIPPA/HITECH requirements so you can concentrate on your taking care of your patients. February - March 2015
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COMMUNITY
You Too Can Be a Foster Parent
Tawanta Brinson
Why I Love Being a Foster Parent My passion has always been to help people in need—whether strangers, family or friends. That is why 17 years ago I made the bold decision to become a foster parent. For me, becoming a foster parent served dual purposes; I was able to provide companionship for my only child while also making a difference in the lives of children less fortunate. I knew that becoming a foster parent would be no walk in the park, but I could empathize with these children and had the ability to look past their problems which extended from carrying years of pain and baggage. I focused on what I could offer to begin to fill the deficits in their lives—a safe and loving home and a bond they’ve always longed for. Our biggest challenges were communication and fear. As the adult I stayed committed and we worked through the challenges; and today we have a strong, close and open relationship. As a foster parent in 1998, I learned that many youth had nowhere to go once they aged out of the foster care program at 21. This always bothered me because most 21 year olds are not ready for independence. These youth could become homeless, fall into prostitution or wind up in jail. One of my retirement dreams was to open an independent living facility where fos-
ter children who aged out of the system can live and learn the skills they need to live independently. I am now licensed with Mentor Maryland. This was ideal for me because I am able to work with young people, while equipping them with the necessary skills to live independently sooner than I thought. If you have been thinking about fostering, I would encourage you to take the next step and attend an informational session. At the informational session you will have an opportunity to learn about the challenges and the rewards. The training sessions and staff are prepared to help you as you make an investment and a difference in the life of a youth.■
Donald & Lisa Wicks
We Love Caring for Teens My husband and I became foster parents 14 years ago. We were trying to conceive a third child because we had 3 sons and really wanted the last child to be a daughter, but I had two miscarriages and felt as though God had another plan for our lives. At that point, we felt we were meant to help other children in need. We really wanted to share our love, compassion and way of life with a child that was less fortunate. We love working with youth since we both had challenges growing up as youth. We knew firsthand what it feels
like to be stereotyped, ostracized, rejected and have low self-esteem. We love working with the teens because most adults/foster parents are afraid of giving them a chance, due to the fear of being over subdued or not being able to handle them. Teens are easy to communicate with, self-sufficient and excited about entering adulthood. We love being able to give our advice, share our stories and help them realize that they too can acquire and become whatever they desire in life no matter what they have gone through. We work through our challenges by using the strategies we learned from the foster care agency, therapists and life experiences. We also reflect back to how we wanted to be treated as youth and listen to determine what is actually triggering them to act out. We stay committed throughout the major challenges by having a relationship with a higher power (God) and realize the youth only want to be accepted and loved. In reality, they are no different than any other child; they’ve just acquired (what we consider) unacceptable behaviors to help them deal with trauma and to survive on a daily basis. The greatest reward with fostering children is seeing them move from a place of hurt and hopelessness to blossoming—achieving their goals and becoming positive contributors to society. We have instilled in them the skills and ability to overcome their obstacles. We have rendered care to over eight teens and stay in contact with most all of them. We gave birth to three children but are the parents of many and love what we do assisting the youth!■
Founded in 1991, MENTOR Maryland is a leading foster care agency serving teens with emotional and behavioral challenges. Our services are tailored to meet the individual needs of our clients. A mentor is a foster parent who is seeking the chance to positively change the life of a young person. Mentors help young people to learn independent living skills which will serve them for a lifetime. For more information, contact Tonya Logan at tonya.logan@thementornetwork.com or (301) 459-3057, ext. 3209. 26
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Feel Better Soup by Go Cook Vegan Ingredients 1/2 cup zucchini spirals 1 clove of garlic 1 teaspoon of parsley 1/4 teaspoon basil 1/4 teaspoon red pepper 1/4 teaspoon of spiral carrots 1 bay leaf 1/4 tsp. sea salt 1/4 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves 1/2 teaspoon of broccoli sprouts 1/2 teaspoon mushrooms Serve it hot, add a little drop of low sodium soy sauce (optional) and enjoy!
Apple salad by Go Cook Vegan Ingredients (1 Serving) 1 cup of mixed greens 2 tablespoons of apple chunks 2 teaspoons of diced pineapple 1/4 teaspoon sunflower seeds 1/2 teaspoon of green pepper 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper 4 cherry tomatoes 1/4 teaspoon or less sea salt & black pepper 1/4 teaspoon shallot 1/4 fresh garlic pressed 1/4 teaspoon of grape seed oil 1/4 teaspoon coconut nectar 1/4 teaspoon of coconut flakes February - March 2015
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It is $38.99 for one year or $50.00 for two years Mail your check or money order to: 8181 Professional Place, Landover, MD 20785 You can reach us via email at info@wjwomen.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, 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
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By The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys Compliments of Attorney Colleen Sinclair Prosser
SINCLAIRPROSSER LAW, LLC Offices in Annapolis, Bowie, Millersville & Waldorf
Attorneys Nicole Livingston, Colleen Sinclair Prosser, Jon J. Gasior & Brook J. Shemer
410.573.4818 / 301.970.8080
Learn more about your estate planning options & our services by visiting www.sinclairprosserlaw.com
Doug Brooks 10903 Indian Head Hwy, Suite 305, Fort Washington, MD 20744
(301)292-8100
dougbrooks@allstate.com
February - March 2015
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Teach your child the importance of empathy Nurture empathy in your child. A child who can put himself in someone else’s shoes and understand what it might feel like to be excluded, teased, or hurt physically and/or emotionally is less likely to engage in aggressive or hurtful behavior. What to do when your child is a bully - The reality is that almost any child can be a bully in certain situations and circumstances. Here are some tips on what to do if you discover that your child has been bullying someone else. One of the best ways to help prevent bullying behavior in a child is by nurturing empathy and emotional intelligence. Also, make sure your child takes full responsibility for his/ her actions. Know what cyberbullying is - How is it different from other types of bullying? As children join social networking sites at an earlier age than ever, cyberbullying is increasingly becoming a potential problem for kids as young as elementary school. Find out how you can prevent cyberbullying and learn how to spot the signs of a child being cyberbullied and learn how to help. Bullying at school also affects others who are not involved directly but who simply witnessed or were aware of mistreatment of another student. These students may suffer from fear and concern about their schoolmate who is targeted. They may feel guilt but also may fear the bully so much that they do nothing to help. Worse, they may become offenders themselves because they fear the perpetrator will target them if they do not become accomplices. For the bullies themselves, the longer they continue the behavior without consequences, the greater the possibility their behavior will worsen. They are at higher risk for committing serious crimes against other students and even the adults in a school. The severity and frequency of their behavior may increase and spread to other students. They may influence other students to participate in their bullying and may attack additional victims. They are more likely to become involved in crimes outside of school. Some may eventually be jailed. Later in life, countless bullies develop the ability to remain in mainstream society while continuing their behavior and even committing crimes, which may or may not be caught and prosecuted. The cost to society may be immeasurable but substantial.■
Loving Care Pediatrics Janet V. Johnson, MD
Board Certified in Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine & Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics
3311 Toledo Terrace Suite C-201, Hyattsville, Maryland 20782 Mon–Fri, 9:00 am–5:00 pm Office: (301) 403-8808 / Fax: (301) 403-1341 30
wjwomen.com
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The security risk analysis is optional for small providers. False. All providers who are “covered entities “ under HIPAA are required to perform a risk analysis, including those who receive EHR incentive payments. Installing a certified EHR fulfills the security risk analysis Meaningful Use requirements. False. Even with a certified EHR, you must perform a full security risk analysis. My EHR vendor took care of everything I need to do about privacy and security. False. It is solely your responsibility to have a complete risk analysis conducted. A checklist will suffice for the risk analysis requirement. False. Checklists fall short of performing a systematic security risk analysis or documenting that one has been performed. I only need to do a risk analysis once. False. HIPAA requires continuous review to correct or modify, and update security protections (recommended at least annually).■
Med CyberSecurity, LLC Rob Campbell,
MSCS, BSET, Secuirty +, HIT
(P): 301-266-2457 (F): 301-805-4663 E-Mail: rc@medcybersecurity.com Website: www.medcybersecurity.com
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