Prince George’s County
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A Lifestyle Magazine
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COMPLIMENTARY Volume 55 Issue 6
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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.
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DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS Wendy Ward GRAPHIC DESIGNER Fina Florez 8181 Professional Place, Landover, MD 20785 To Advertise, please email Info@wjwomen.com
Why Total Body Care? Let’s start by answering what Total Body Care means to us. Our bodies work hard for us every day. We may not always realize it, but the fact of the matter is that hard work, day in and day out, can take its toll. It’s our responsibility to stop, check in and tune up. That pause, that momentary break of the daily grind is important, essential really. That pause is us practicing total body care… to make life even more livable. Why Massage Envy So why Total Body Care with Massage Envy? Because it’s our belief that the every day stuff doesn’t have to hurt, or take such a toll; it’s not something that we have to just deal with. Regular massage care does more than just provide temporary relief or momentary relaxation. And facial care isn’t just skin maintenance. They take care of our bodies in more ways than we sometimes realize, with proven, lasting effects. Treating your body well shouldn’t be a luxury. At least, we don’t think so, because the good life should actually feel that way. So think of us as your partner in managing the side effects of this wonderful thing we call living.
Whatever the reason, join us at Massage Envy and we’ll help you manage the side effects of this wonderful thing we call living. MassageEnvy.com
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December 2016 - January 2017
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
By Haddis T. Hagos, M.D.
The Role of Radio Frequency Ablation in Chronic Neck Pain After Whiplash Injury
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
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Submitted by Chetanna Okasi, M.D.
Three W
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
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Health Issues Women Shouldn’t Put Up With and Don’t Have to
not) or that 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,
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Issues that appear minor and personal can have a major impact on a woman’s quality of life.” 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 December 2016 - January 2017
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By Alan Weiss, M.D.
The Gastrointestinal Tract:
Health
The Surprising Key to
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
e live in a day where the medical system and physician training fosters viewing the human body as composed of seemingly unrelated parts. One doctor looks at one part while another looks at another part. What is very surprising is how connected the various parts of the body are. There is no better example of this then the profound effects that the gastrointestinal tract has on overall health. In many of my patients who have chronic illnesses I very commonly find that when they also have gastrointestinal symptoms, such as reflux, pain, or chronic diarrhea; it is only when their GI symptoms are treated and resolved that they begin to get better. The GI tract is not just a tube. We all know how critical the GI tract is for digestion and absorption of nutrients. People are often unaware that up to 80% of the body’s immune tissue that protects us from infections is located in the intestinal wall. As well there are ten times as many microorganisms (bacteria) in the intestines than there are cells in the human body. These bacteria are critical to achieving optimal health. The body uses these bacteria to produce Vitamin K, to optimize the immune system, and to produce hormones. Disruption in the healthy bacterial balance can often result in disease. Diseases that can result from bacterial gut imbalances include inflammatory bowel diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and even cancer. I have patients who experienced significant reductions in mood disorders (depression and anxiety) after treating gut imbalances and eliminating foods they were sensitive to. Food intolerances and allergies are another topic of gut health that is underappreciated. Many very young children with colic, chronic ear and sinus problems and rashes often suffer from undiagnosed food allergies. The most common sources of food allergy is dairy and wheat, as well as allergy to a wheat protein called gluten which can result in Celiac Disease. The health effects of these food allergies can often extend beyond the GI tract. For instance, even in the absence of significant GI symptoms, Celiac disease can cause thyroid illness, osteoporosis, and neurological problems. Another example is a deficiency of stomach acid, which is critical for digestion. Most people know of acid reflux, but probably as common is a low level of stomach acid. This can result in chronic bloating, bacterial and yeast overgrowth, as well as poor absorption of food an nutrients, which can in turn result in osteoporosis, neurological issues, rashes, and muscular weakness. There are many more examples of the wide-ranging effects of GI problems such as histamine intolerance and leaky gut syndrome.
“GI tract is for digestion and absorption of nutrients.”
So where does one begin? It is important to bring to your physician’s attention any chronic symptoms you have and ask if they can be connected to other health issues. It is useful to do food allergy testing, cultures for infections, and measurement of stomach acid. Hunting for hidden bowel infections can often pay off handsomely in health benefits. Use of probiotics, which can restore normal bacterial balance, and prebiotics which can nourish and return to health the intestinal cells and membrane, can often make a big difference.■
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. December 2016 - January 2017
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
by Kashif Ali, M.D.
Update on Breast Cancer Screening
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n 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 3 years for women in their 20’s and 30’s. 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 exam is an option for women starting in their 20’s. 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. ese patients may need a MRI in addition to mammograms. The genetic mutation linked to 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 de-
tected 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 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■
“Self breast exam is an option for women starting in their 20’s.” In 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 is 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) will be 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. 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.
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Back to Work: Ease Your Baby into Bottle Feeding
HEALTH & WELLNESS
D
uring your first few weeks with baby, your lives were intimately entwined: eating, sleeping and eating some more. All occurring at erratic, irregular times, and around the clock, might we add. As the calendar on maternity leave begins to run out, it’s hard to fathom how this intensive baby schedule is going to fit in with your working life. Now is the time to start planning for your return to work, especially if baby will be eating from a bottle for the first time. It’s a scenario that will be familiar to many moms. About four-fifths of U.S. infants are breastfed at some point, according to a 2016 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When babies reach 3 months old, 44.4 percent are exclusively breastfed, and that percentage dips to 22.3 percent by the age of 6 months.
Whether you plan to pump or switch to formula, preparation is the key to ensuring a smooth transition. Pump and freeze: Two weeks before you return to work is the ideal time to start pumping and freezing extra milk so you have plenty in your supply. Set aside time after one feeding per day to pump, and store the milk in the plastic bags that are designed for use with the pump. If baby is going to a daycare provider, be sure to label them with your last name and the date. Practice with a bottle: In this two-week period before work, start offering breast milk or formula from a bottle so baby becomes accustomed to this new approach to eating. Some babies aren’t picky, while others will protest. In the latter case, that might be because your baby strongly associates you with food! Before a regular feeding, try leaving for a brief outing while another caretaker stays behind with baby and offers her a bottle.
Many parents have found that eventually, with practice, baby will accept a bottle. Have a supply plan for your child care provider: Talk to your child care provider about what they need from you. If you are providing breast milk, have a conversation about what happens when the supply runs low. Some provide formula, while will require that you send a container or two they can keep on hand for backup. With that in mind, a test feeding at home with formula is a good idea, so you can confirm baby does not have any allergies. Pumping at work: If you plan to pump, set up a meeting with your boss a couple of weeks before you return to work to plan on how this will fit with your work schedule. One way to do it is to break up your lunch hour into three 20-minute segments, pumping once in the morning and once in the afternoon, which leaves a 20-minute meal break for you. Also, talk about where you can pump, preferably in a clean, private lactation room not far from your work space. Keep formula on hand: Over the next few months, your baby’s eating habits will emerge and change. Even if your workplace is generous with time and resources to help you stay on your pumping schedule, a busy week can collide with a hungrier than usual baby, which can tax your supplies. Have a couple cans of powdered baby formula on hand so your family is ready in any situation. Consider store brand infant formula, which is just a nutritious and safe as the nationally advertised name brand versions, because all infant formulas sold in the U.S. must meet the same Food and Drug Administration standards and offer complete nutrition for baby. Store brand formula can save families up to 50 percent, or approximately $600 per year. Even if you are already feeding baby with a certain brand formula, switching to store brand formula is safe and well-tolerated in infants, according to “the Switch Study,” a clinical study conducted by researchers at the University of Virginia.■
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 December 2016 - January 2017
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Experience
5 Star N
eha Threading – Salon and Spa is the only spa that offers threading services along with a full service spa. There is no other spa in Baltimore that offers couples treatments, Vichy showers, Ayurvedic treatments along with hair and threading services. They also offer Henna Tattooing which is very popular during the summer time. Neha is an artist with an extraordinary hand. She not only does perfect threading but can also draw intricate, one-of-a kind designs for Henna Tattoos! The uniqueness of Neha comes from her remarkable energy personally attending to each and every one of her customers and giving them the exceptional customer service. This is what she has to say for all her customers: “I still have a lot of passion about my work and I love to serve all of you whether it is performing threading service or listening to your stories or even giving you my magical hug to relieve your stress!! It really makes me feel great from inside.”
Believe it or not there is magic in her style of threading and her interaction with her customers that gives a positive energy and makes you feel good. Even the Indian folk music she plays every morning has a soothing effect in the environment. Neha has been in the business for over 20 years and has threaded over 20K unique customers and that is one of the reason she was mentioned as the “Threading Goddess” by the Examiner magazine. Recently Neha was featured on WBAL Channel in one of their segments for “Growth of Woman Owned Business” in 10
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Luxury in your neighborhood!
“The uniqueness of Neha comes from her remarkable energy.”
Maryland. Her “Art of Threading” has been televised several times by various local TV channels. Recently Neha has introduced a FREE massage service once a month for a person in need to support the local community. Her first candidate was a beautiful spirited woman with terminal cancer and really appreciated the experience of the spa. Her goal is to expand this by adding more FREE services and also, to go to local hospitals/hospice and offer massages. For all her regular customers Neha Threading - Salon and Spa offers $50 spa services also known as Spa Week twice a year. Spa Week is very popular and is extended for 3 weeks; it will begin October 10th and end October 30th. Threading is becoming more popular day by day. With that being said, there is a higher demand of good threading artists. Neha has plans to open 2-3 Kiosk locations in surrounding areas to cater to her ever expanding clientele. These locations will only offer threading services, and to ensure customers will still get the same exceptional customer service as they experience at our Pikesville and Canton location. Neha has started mentoring new threading artists under her stewardship by teaching them her unique style of doing threading. Once they perfect the art they will be given independence to run one of the new locations.■ About Neha Gupta Neha Gupta, a talented and well sought out threading technician who took an interest in facial threading in India over 20 years ago. After working in several salons, Neha opened her own location back in 2008. Now she is the successful owner of Neha Threading Salon and Spa in Pikesville MD and a new location in Canton an upscale community located in Baltimore City. For more information, please visit www.nehathreading.com. 410-653-2769 (Pikesville) / 410-675-2769 (Canton)
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Mother Knows Best New Options Let Women Choose the Pregnancy and Delivery Plan That’s Right for Them
December 2016 - January 2017
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beauty & style WJHEALTH & WELLNESS
The Dark Side of that Summer Glow by KATINA BYRD MILES, M.D
Summer is here! With the summer season, there is a common desire to exchange dreary winter skin for skin that has been kissed by the sun. Tanned skin is associated with well-being, health, and even wealth. Excessive ultraviolet exposure, regardless of the source, is dangerous. A tan is the skin’s telling sign that it has been damaged. What exactly occurs during the tanning process? UVB is absorbed by the super cial layers of the skin and causes the release of in ammatory factors. We detect this in ammation in the form of a sunburn, a tan, and premature aging. UVA penetrates deeper in the skin and also initiates in ammation. UVA is a more potent causative agent of premature aging as it causes changes in elastin, collagen, and blood vessels. Melanocytes, the pigment producing cells of the skin, provide protection against ultraviolet induced DNA damage. When ultraviolet light hits the melanocytes, they increase their production of pigment granules called melanosomes. e melanosomes travel from the bottom layer to the top layers of skin in an e ort to absorb and lter the damaging ultraviolet rays. e ultraviolet rays cause damage to the DNA within the melanocytes which translates to the formation of a tan, freckles, dyspigmentation, and skin cancer. Melanoma is the result of uncontrolled growth of melanocytes caused by mutations in the cellular DNA. It is the most deadly form of skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 86% of melanomas are attributed to ultraviolet exposure. Melanoma is the most common form of cancer in ages 25-29. Mostly young females use indoor tanning salons. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, exposure to tanning beds before the age of 35, increases one’s risk of developing a melanoma by a staggering 75%. e Academy also reports that the World Health Organization has classi ed the ultraviolet light emitted from tanning devices as a human carcinogen. Tanning beds are more likely to emit UVA which penetrates deeper into the skin resulting in in ammation and melanocytic mutations. is explains the increased risk of skin cancers associated with tanning salon use.To make tanning
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By Katina Byrd Miles, MD salons even more dangerous, they are associated with addictive behavior. e lamps also emit UVA that is more potent than natural sunlight. Sunscreen and responsible sun exposure dramatically decreases one’s risk for developing a skin cancer and premature aging. Here are some guidelines to protect the skin. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going outside. A shot glass full is an adequate amount of sunscreen to be applied to the body. When outside for an extended amounts of time, sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours. e ultraviolet light emitted from the sun is the strongest between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm. Sunscreen that provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB coverage with at least a SPF of 30 is adequate. If wearing light colored or thin clothing such as a tee shirt, sunscreen should still be applied to those covered areas. Be sure to apply sunscreen to the face, neck, ears and hands, as these body parts are exposed everyday. A full body skin check is recommended at least yearly by a board certi ed dermatologist. If you have a history of extensive ultraviolet exposure, a skin check may be needed biannually. It is also recommended that those with a history of tanning salon use have a yearly exam with an ophthalmologist and a gynecologist. Yearly full body skin checks help to detect skin
JUNE 2016 | JULY 2016
cancer in the early stages. Early detection dramatically decreases the risk of dying from skin cancer. Pre-mature aging can be addressed with chemical peels, laser treatments, retinoids, and antioxidant serums. To schedule a consultation for a treatment regimen to reverse the signs of premature aging and for a full body skin check with a board certi ed dermatologist, please contact Dr. Katina Byrd Miles at 401-451-0500 (www.skinoasisderm.com). Dr. Miles trained at the Cancer Institute, Melanoma Center, at Washington Hospital Center from 2000-2002. During this two year Melanoma Fellowship, Dr. Miles conducted melanoma research and also trained extensively in the early detection of skin cancer with the use of the dermatoscope.
Dr. Katina Miles is a graduate of Howard University College of Medicine. She completed her internal medicine residency at University of Maryland at Baltimore and dermatology residency at Georgetown University. Dr. Miles is a board certified dermatologist and a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. She is an expert in skin cancer detection and treatment and is a Skin of Color specialist. Dr. Miles is the founder and Medical Director of Skin Oasis Dermatology where she is ready to serve you.
By Kashif Ali, M.D.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
The Effects of Genetics on Breast Cancer: An Update
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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. It is estimated that in 2012, About 227,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and about 63,000 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer (an early form of breast cancer) will be diagnosed in this country. This will lead to about 39,500 deaths from breast cancer. 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 change of cure and survival. Up to 10% of breast cancers are thought to be hereditary. These cancers are a result of genetic information passed from a parent to their offspring. Genetic information is passed through chromosomes. During conception, half of the chromosomes are obtained from the mother and half from the father. The genetic information in these chromosomes is encoded in DNA. This DNA contains the instructions for building proteins that make up your body and help with all its functions. Unfortunately, if there is an error, or mutation, in this DNA, that mutation will appear in all the cells produced by that particular DNA. Most inherited cases of breast cancer are associated with two abnormal mutations in the DNA: BReast CAncer gene one and BReast CAncer gene two, abbreviated BRCA1 and BRCA2. It is a fact that everyone has BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, since the normal function of the BRCA genes is to repair cell damage and keep breast cells growing normally. This prevents us from developing cancer. But the problem is that when these genes contain abnormalities or mutations, the breast cancer risk increases, since this leads to irregularities with the normal repair mechanism in breast cancer tissue. Abnormal BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes may account for up to 10% of all breast cancers, or 1 out of every 10 cases. Women having these particular abnormal genes can have up to an 80% risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetimes. Breast cancer in these women is more likely to occur at a younger age, be more aggressive with a higher chance of spreading, and occur in both breasts. Apart from breast cancer these women are also much more likely to develop cancer of the ovary (2nd most common after breast), pancreas, cervix, uterine, colon, stomach, gall bladder, bile duct, thyroid, and a type of skin cancer called melanoma. We all have 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46 chromosomes, half of which come from our mother and the other half from our father. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are passed onto children in a autosomal dominant pattern. This means that even if one parent is carrying a mutation on even one of their 46 chromosomes, half of their children will be affected.
The BRCA mutation is detected through a blood test collected at your doctor’s office or a lab. Possible women who qualify for BRCA mutation testing 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 Women who carry a BRCA mutation tend to have breast cancers that are triple negative. Triple negative breast cancers are: Estrogen receptor-negative, Progesterone receptor-negative, and HER2/neu-negative. This means there is no receptor on the outside of the cancer cell to target during treatment. These cancers also tend to be more aggressive and have a high chance of metastasis (meaning spread to other parts of the body). To bring some positive light to this discussion, a recent study at the M. D. Anderson Cancer Center showed that triple-negative breast cancer patients with BRCA mutations experienced a significantly lower chance of the cancer coming back after completing treatment. Also a new class of drugs, called PARP inhibitors, have shown promise in BRCA mutations and/ or triple negative breast cancers. Even women who were treated with and failed multiple prior chemotherapies responded favorably to these new agents. In conclusion, it is imperative that women at risk for carrying the deleterious BRCA mutations be identified prior to the development of a BRCA-associated cancer. In the event that this mutation is detected after the development of cancer, then she be treated with the most up-to-date, new, and robust treatments that oncologists have to offer at this time.■ 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. December 2016 - January 2017
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Exercise & Breast Cancer
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pproximately 11.1 million cancer survivors are alive in the United States. Healthcare provider continue to support survivors with activity prescriptions based on evidence as to whether exercise during or after treatment results in improved health outcomes? Current evidence on exercise demonstrates significant improvement in baseline fatigue, physical functioning, and cardio-respiratory fitness; Preliminary evidence suggests exercise also contributes to improvements in body weight and composition, metabolic risk factors, and immune function. Additionally, exercise may also influence disease-free and overall survival in selected populations with a diagnosis of cancer. The specific benefit from physical exercise both during and after treatment may vary related to the stage of the disease, the nature of the medical treatment provided and lifestyle of the cancer survivor. As such, a robustly designed Progressive Resistance training (PRT) regimen throughout
the various phases of breast cancer treatment is warranted to ensure that exercises are individualized and specifically designed based on the stage, complexity, and patient needs as determined by the history and physical exam to effectively manage symptoms, dysfunctions, decrease pain level, prevent seroma formation and promote wound healing for optimal improvement in upper extremity strength and function at the appropriate timing. Current evidence suggests many health benefits from physical activity during and post cancer treatments. Dr. Diallo of EZ Rehab Solutions, a comprehensive outpatient physical therapy practice in Greenbelt, Maryland recommends that breast cancer survivors visit their physician and therapist to help prescribe, design and train on simple exercises to reduce pain, decrease upper extremity and trunk stiffness, and improve overall upper body function. Please visit www.ezrehabsolutions.com to contact us with questions on how to help you or your loved one with breast cancer.â–
Dr. Diallo, the Owner and Director of EZ Rehab Solutions provide courteous, professional and effective services to treat various maladies and dysfunctions. He also specializes in providing patient education seminars, and wellness programs related to Back Pain and Sciatica. 301.446.1724
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Botox Cosmetics the benefits of
HEALTH & WELLNESS
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hat is BOTOX® Cosmetic? BOTOX® Cosmetic is the only approved treatment to temporarily improve the appearance of both moderate to severe frown lines between the brows and crow’s feet lines in adults. BOTOX® Cosmetic is one of the most extensively studied medical aesthetic treatments and is approved for cosmetic use in 78 countries.* BOTOX® Cosmetic has a record of experience that aesthetic specialists know and trust. And, the safety and efficacy of BOTOX® Cosmetic have been evaluated in both Allergan sponsored clinical trials as well as in 417 peer-reviewed articles in scientific and medical journals. How does BOTOX® Cosmetic work? BOTOX® Cosmetic targets one of the underlying causes of frown lines and crow’s feet—the repeated muscle contractions from frowning and squinting over the years. Your specialist will inject these muscles with BOTOX® Cosmetic to temporarily reduce muscle activity. You will begin to notice a visible smoothing of your crow’s feet lines and frown lines between your brows. Will BOTOX® Cosmetic make me look like I’ve had work done? BOTOX® Cosmetic is a technique-sensitive treatment. You should not lose the ability to show expression when you are treated by someone who is licensed, trained, and a medical expert in facial anatomy. It is important to talk to your specialist about the results you want from treatment. Does BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment hurt? Some patients report that being injected with BOTOX® Cosmetic feels like a pinch. Your specialist may use ice to numb the treatment area. If you are concerned about discomfort, your specialist may apply a topical numbing cream before administering your treatment. How long does the treatment take? Your specialist will discuss your treatment goals and perform a facial analysis to determine the appropriate treatments for you. The actual injection process takes about 10 minutes. What is the average treatment cost? Your cost not only includes the price of the product, but more importantly, the skill and expertise of the specialist or healthcare professional who is administering your treatment. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a technique-sensitive treatment—look for someone who is licensed and trained and has experience treating patients with BOTOX® Cosmetic. Be wary of discount products or
“cheap” BOTOX® Cosmetic—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. It is more important to find an experienced specialist who will take the time to understand your treatment goals and develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Do men receive BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment? Yes. BOTOX® Cosmetic has also been clinically evaluated in male patients. In clinical studies for moderate to severe frown lines, 17.5% of patients treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic were men. In the clinical studies for moderate to severe crow’s feet, male patients comprised approximately 10% of patients treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 10% of all cosmetic procedures performed in the United States in 2014 were on men—that is more than 1 million cosmetic procedures. The number of cosmetic procedures for men increased by 273% from 1997 to 2014.■
Dr. Renee Bovelle
“Your Best Vision is Our Focus”
12200 Annapolis Rd., Suite 116, Glenn Dale, MD 20769 301-805-4664 / www.EnvisionEyeAndLaser.com December 2016 - January 2017
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Prevent Gum Disease with Laser Dentistry By Dr. Brenda Howard, Cosmetic Dentistry
How are your gums? Are they red, swollen or bleeding? They should not be. They should be firm, tight, pink or brown if yours have melanin pigmentation and they should not bleed. If they are the former, they are diseased and you are in jeopardy of losing your teeth. The loss of teeth has many deleterious results. You are unable to chew your food well, which has a negative effect on digestion. Your jaw joint is not properly supported and you may develop pain in this area. Your facial muscles are no longer supported causing you to look much older than you should. And if this is not enough, there is now evidence linking periodontal (gum) disease to heart disease, low birth weight babies, diabetes and arthritis. So the unhealthy bacteria in your mouth, has an impact on your total health. If you are in need of an exam and consultation to discuss the state of your dental health, give our office a call for a complimentary consultation. We have advanced training in taking care of your teeth and gums and would love to offer our expertise.
Call Blissful Dental today 301-552-2662 Along with the usual dental treatments, we offer : Laser treatment for gum disease Implant replacement for missing teeth Sleep apnea care Don’t let your 2015 Ins. benefits expire. Utilized by the end of the year or you lose them. 9821 Greenbelt Rd #205, Lanham, MD 20706
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Submitted by Janet V. Johnson, M.D.
Having an
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Attitude
of Gratitude
T
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 thankyou 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 December 2016 - January 2017
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Submitted By Dr. Net Tesfayohannes
Georgetown Pain Management 7500 Greenway Center Dr., Suite #940, Greenbelt, MD 20770
Phone: (301) 718-1082 / Fax: (301) 718-1084 / www.gtpain.com 18
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Natural Medicine Your Solution To Wellness By Veda Johnson, ND
What is Naturopathic Medicine? It is a form of medicine that focuses on the prevention of illness and treatments that stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself and create optimal health. Improved wellness is achieved with therapeutic methods and substances that balance centuries old natural remedies with frontline advances in medical science. I became a Naturopathic Doctor to aid in the body’s natural healing process by discovering the root cause instead of just treating symptoms. There are times when a cause cannot be found and the condition cannot be abated. However, the goal still remains the same and that is to bring about an increase in wellness, a decrease in symptoms, and/or the reversal of the condition. Did you know that many chronic illnesses can be reversed simply by a diet change? Simply implementing diet lifestyle changes can decrease blood sugar levels, decrease high blood pressure readings and stopped or minimized eczema. These are just a few examples:
What conditions can be treated with Naturopathic Medicine? Conditions/Chronic Illnesses such as (but not limited to): • • • • • •
Asthma Autoimmune Conditions Cancer Chronic Fatigue Diabetes II Digestive/Stomach conditions Eczema Female Hormonal Conditions
• • • • •
• • • • • • •
Food Allergies and Sensitivities Herpes High blood pressure High Cholesterol Insomnia Neuropathy Psoriasis
We see all facets of general family health from infancy to geriatric care. We accept Flex Spending and HSA plans. We also have our own in-house payment plan
Call and Schedule a Free 15 minute consultation and Get the Gift of Health 301-552-2621 DR. VEDA Johnson is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor with over 30 years of experience in various allied health professions. A graduate of the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona. A native Baltimorean that loves family, cooking and reading. As an avid Teacher/Learner she is an adjunct Professor of Genetics at the Notre Dame of Maryland University.
Office Hours Tuesday- Wednesday: 9:00 am –5:00 pm Thursdays: 9:00 am -7:00 pm Fridays: 8:30 am- 1:00 pm Saturday: By Appointment Only Closed Sundays & Mondays
9811 Greenbelt Road, Suite 20 Lanham, MD 20706 301-552-2621 Website: atnwellnesscenter.com
Your Business ad could be here
For more information, contact the Women’s Journal at 866-517-5049 December 2016 - January 2017
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5
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Fall Fashion
Finds that Blend
comfort & style
“As the leaves turn and the chill sets in, make sure your closet is stocked with the top five fashion finds of the season.”
A
s Mother Nature exchanges her green attire for endless hues of yellow, orange and red, you too may be thinking it’s time to spruce up your wardrobe. This fall, the leading trends are blending fashion with comfort to create eye-catching styles that move with ease through all your autumn adventures. As the leaves turn and the chill sets in, make sure your closet is stocked with the top five fashion finds of the season. Thin and thick, scarves for everyone Store your statement necklaces for next season because fall 2016 is prime for scarves of all shapes and sizes. Chunky knits are a classic among both men and women, with infinity scarves bridging the gap between dainty and daring. To add further dimension, skinny scarves are a new addition for this season. Thin scarves of silky material are being layered, wrapped and knotted to create a one-of-a-kind look guaranteed to catch a glance. Long-hair scarves or silk belts are ideal for experimenting with this fresh trend. A comfortable twist on the skinny jean When fall arrives women from coast to coast don skinny jeans with boots and booties. Until now, this unforgettable look came at the price of comfort and mobility. Enter the Lee Dream Jean. Designed to look like a skinny jean on the outside while feeling like a yoga pant inside, you can wear these jeans for any fall adventure - whether stretching for the highest apple or lounging with a pumpkin spice latte. The patent-pending Dream Jean wraps you in softness with a t-shirt-like lining, and the stretchy, skinny fit ensures you’ll never want to take them off. Slim-fit jeans for men For fall 2016, men’s jeans are seeing a slimmer cut than in previous seasons, and more men are looking for styles with stretch to achieve this look. The Lee Slim Fit embraces both elements to produce a pant that looks and feels great, whether you’re tailgat20
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ing with friends or picking pumpkins with the family. The slim, tailored style fits closer to the body for a great fall look, while the Active Comfort Denim technology allows the denim to flex and move with ease to keep up with your every move. Fabulous fall footwear Beyond boots, fall footwear is getting a sensible yet stylish update for fall 2016. One of the leading shoe trends of the season is the classic mule. Making its comeback, the mule blends the best of a loafer with the ease of a clog. Slip these on with your favorite jeans for a chic look for the office or a weekend get-together. Mules offer the ideal way to polish a casual look and create a beautiful blend of high and low fashion. Pops of color As Mother Nature delights the eye with radiant hues across the landscape, you may feel inspired to add pops of color to your fall wardrobe. Just because it’s autumn, however, doesn’t mean you’re limited to just crimson and sienna. Fall is a season alive with life, so integrate your favorite bold colors in any way you can. If you opt for colorful pants to bring life to your outfit, try one of the eleven colors available in Lee’s Essential Chinos, including perfect fall shades like Moss Green and Blush. Pink, in fact, is trending for fall, so rock those pants and pull that raspberry fedora out of storage. It’s no longer relegated for spring alone. Fall 2016 is unlike any other when it comes to fashion. By blending comfort and style, you’re sure to find a favorite look to keep up with your every move this season.■
Full Service Pharmacy & Compounding Service Providing Fast & Friendly Prescription Service • Electronic RX from your doctor • Extended Supply • Diabetic Supplies • Compression Support • Specialty Compounds
(301)577-1212 Fax (301)577-1099 8313 Annapolis Rd New Carrollton, MD. 20784 M-F 9am-6pm Sat. 10am - 1pm
Website: www. thefamilychoicepharmacy.com Email: familychoicerx@verizon.net
December 2016 - January 2017
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Healthy Meals COMMUNITY
Oven-Fried Fish & Chips INGREDIENTS Prep time: 25 mins / Cook Time: 45 mins / Servings: 4
Canola or olive oil cooking spray 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1/4-inchthick wedges 4 teaspoons canola oil 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun or Creole seasoning, divided 2 cups cornflakes 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 large egg whites, beaten 1 pound cod or haddock, cut into 4 portions PREPARATION: Position racks in upper and lower third of oven; preheat to 425°F. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray. Set a wire
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rack on another large baking sheet; coat with cooking spray. Place potatoes in a colander. Thoroughly rinse with cold water, then pat dry completely with paper towels. Toss the potatoes, oil and 3/4 teaspoon Cajun (or Creole) seasoning in a large bowl. Spread on the baking sheet without the rack. Bake on the lower oven rack, turning every 10 minutes, until tender and golden, 30 to 35 minutes.Meanwhile, coarsely grind cornflakes in a food processor or blender or crush in a sealable plastic bag. Transfer to a shallow dish. Place flour, the remaining 3/4 teaspoon Cajun (or Creole) seasoning and salt in another shallow dish and egg whites in a third shallow dish. Dredge fish in the flour mixture, dip it in egg white and then coat all sides with the ground cornflakes. Place on the prepared wire rack. Coat both sides of the breaded fish with cooking spray.Bake the fish on the upper oven rack until opaque in the center and the breading is golden brown and crisp, about 20 minutes. NUTRITION: 325 calories/per serving. â–
Healthy Meals
Protein Power Packed Overnight Oatmeal Recipe Ingredients: Prep time: 5 minutes/Cook time: 8 hours/Serves: 1-2 1/2 cup old fashioned rolled-oats 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt 1/4 cup pecans 1/4 cup fresh blueberries and raspberries Large spoonful of Jif(R) Peanut Butter and Naturally Flavored Cinnamon Spread (or Maple if you prefer!) 1 to 1-1/2 cups milk (basically cover what’s in your jar) Optional: 1 teaspoon chia seeds 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon honey
PREPARATION: 1. In a large jar, layer your ingredients starting with about a 1/2 cup of old fashioned rolled oats. 2. Then add about a 1/2 cup of your favorite yogurt, your favorite nuts and fruit. 3. Next, add a spoonful of Jif(R) Peanut Butter and Naturally Flavored Cinnamon Spread 4. If you want, add chia seeds and a drizzle of honey and vanilla extract. 5. Cover with your favorite kind of milk. You can use cow, almond, coconut or soy milk. 6. Gently stir your ingredients, top with a lid and place in the fridge overnight. Choose to eat it cold or warm it up in the microwave.â– December 2016 - January 2017
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BUSINESS
About Our Firm Our firm is dedicated to providing you with quality estate planning resources, so you can become familiar with all of the existing options. When you visit or call our office, we want you to feel comfortable discussing such an important issue concerning both you and your family. We want to arm you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your family’s future.
our offices ANNAPOLIS 900 Bestgate Road Suite 103, Annapolis, Maryland, 21401 Phone: (410) 573-4818 Fax: (410) 573-2802 BOWIE 14300 Gallant Fox Lane Suite 204, Bowie, Maryland, 20715 Phone: (301) 970-8080 Fax: (410) 573-2802
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BUSINESS
ASSURANCE Through INSURANCE
A
By Michelle Wiseman
s a funeral care provider I am often asked the question “What made you choose this profession.” Which is usually followed up by the statement “I could never do what you do.” I smile on the inside and quietly thank God for the gift of science which He has innately place on the inside of me. My answer to the question is always the same, I didn’t choose it, it chose me. And yes I absolutely love it! The reward of my gift is educating the community up close and personal. There are many options related to end of life decisions. I believe education relieves apprehension which allows you to “Live from a Position of Power” (Pamela Reaves). Several times a year, I am honored to speak to brave people who wish to be empowered and take control of their lives, even to the very end. Lately, the concern has centered on LIFE INSURANCE. Life insurance can be pretty confusing given the number of misleading TV and radio commercials vying for your attention. Please allow me to clarify some of your concerns and arm you with the facts related to funding funerals with life insurance products. The goal of life insurance is to ensure you and your families are protected against financial devastation in the unfortunate event of death. There are a plethora of insurance products on the market. Some of the most popular are: • Whole Life / Permanent (Traditional, Universal, Variable) – Pays a death benefit when you die- even if you live to 100. • Term Life – The simplest form of insurance which only pays if death occurs during the term of the policy, which is usually one to 30 years. • Final Expense- Is usually a Whole Life product specifically designed to cover funeral cost. Although any coverage you might have is good, out of the three listed Term Life insurance may not be your best option for end of life coverage. Here is why: We’ve all heard the commercials where the announcer is boasting their ability to offer a 45 year old male, with high blood pressure a 20 year, $50,000., TERM life policy for under $40.00 a month. Sounds good right? Well, at the end of the term, the male will be 65 years of age. The problem: the older you are the more you’ll pay for insurance because you become a high risk factor. That same $50,000.00 term policy, upon renewal, might now cost you four or five times the original amount IF you’ve managed to remain healthy. Remember, high blood pressure made you a high risk from the start. The pro is you have coverage for a period of time. The con is with age health is likely
“The goal of life insurance is to ensure you and your families are protected against financial devastation”
to decline which makes being able to qualify or afford coverage a huge problem. Whole Life Insurance is great and used by many to amass great wealth. Others plan for it to be used as an inheritance. If you are planning to fund your funeral with it please know, traditional life insurance policies can take as long as 6 to 8 weeks to pay out. Most funeral homes will transfer the policy into a “FUNERAL ASSIGNMENT”. A funeral assignment allows you the benefit of a FINAL EXPENSE policy however, be prepared to incur a fee of up to 6% of the total funeral contract. Fees are paid to third parties, on your behalf, for speedy verifications and quick pay out. Final Expense Insurance policies are designed to fund funerals. Once the benefactor and the amount of the policy is verified your funeral cost can be paid out to the funeral provider within 24/48 hours. You should not be charged a fee for using a Final Expense policy that has been assigned directly to the funeral care provider from your insurance agency. Final Expense policies are not intended to leave inheritance funds. Please be sure to adjust your life insurance policy should you have a major life change, i.e., marriage, divorce, new birth. Failing to do so might prove to be costly. Finally, to the person who think to themselves I DON”T CARE what happens to me after I’ve passed. They can just put me in a pine box. To you I say, “The pine boxes are among some of the most expensive offerings.” Get Insured!■ 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. 7531 Old Alexandria Ferry Road, Clinton, Maryland 301-899-2005 / michelle@wisemanfuneralhome.net
December 2016 - January 2017
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SBBK stands for Small Business Bookkeeping We are an independent accounting & bookkeeping consulting firm that specializes in recording and reporting the financial effects of your business. SBBK establishes partnerships to provide great bookkeeping services. We are the liaison between your business operations and Certified Public (tax) Accountants. The master key to proper tax preparation is through a good bookkeeper. SBBK will assist you in keeping a proper set of books throughout the year. If you’re current, behind or just need an overview reconciliation of your books, we can help. You should never be behind in the record keeping of your books but just in case you are we offer solutions: Data Entry ● A/R ● A/P Budget Performance ● Administrative Organizing ● Payroll processing Software Set-up & Training and more Contact: accounting@mysbbk.com Phone: (301) 982-1000 *Fax: (240) 554-2808 / www.MySbbk.com 26
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December 2016 - January 2017
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Russian Hair Wigs Available
7219 Hanover Pkwy., Ste C, Greenbelt, MD
301.806. HAIR / 301. 441.1101 / 240. 350.4205