E The Magazine For Today's Female Executive December 2014 Issue

The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

The

Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Really Does Christmas!

Give Yourself The Gift of Bold Dreams All I want For Christmas is Whimsical, Wonderful Chocolate.

Handmade By Masala Chocolates

Reality T.V. Chefs

Create Foods and Drinks Drinks-- Ideal for Entertaining.

Happy New Gear!

Shift Tactics, Hit your Peak and Motivate Others.

Now What Exactly Goes in a Man Cave -Again?

Top Tech Picks

On The Ground With Ebola

December 2014

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December NAFE Schedule Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

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This Christmas E Magazine Visits the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel Subscribe Here

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The Beverly Wilshire Does Christmas!

Meet the Executive Chef Of The Blvd Claudia Fossa Page

52

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DECEMBER 2014 CONTENT

70

11

On the Front Line With Ebola Iyabo O. Daramola, MD

Message From the Editor’s Desk

16

42

russell + hazel Tools for Executive Organizing and Management

Badley Mischka

76

A MacKenzie– Childs Christmas

Designs to Meet, Greet & Entertain

24

Tis The Season...

Entertaining Tips For the Holidays.

52

By Etiquette Expert Rachel Isgar

34

What Exactly Goes in a Man Cave Again?

62

Christmas at

The Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel

There is so Much Goodness Around Us– Barbara Wiseman.

80

Franchise Gifts for the Holidays David Goodman

Top Tech Picks

By Lewis Hyunh

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DECEMBER 2014 CONTENT

Food and Desserts Ideal for Entertaining -Starts on Page 88

A complete Fabulous Holiday Dinner by Chef Steve Cazel

Page 98

Granny Smith Apple Waldorf Salad with Walnuts & Grilled Chicken

Poached Pear stuffed with Gorgonzola Cheese, On Proscuitto Toast Points Chestnut Crusted Pork Loin stuffed with Cranberry Cornbread, served with Red Pepper & Sweet Corn Relish

Whimsical Handmade Designer Chocolates -Masala Chocolates

Pumpkin spiced Chocolate Liqueur Cheese Cake topped with Maple Whip Cream

The

Nogs

Carrot Cake Parfait

Rustic Pizza Page 6 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

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DECEMBER 2014 CONTENT

Food and Desserts Ideal for Entertaining

Baked Ziti

Albondigas

Nana Anna’s Golden Sesame Cookies

Barcardi Rum Balls Modern Zeppole's and The Nightwatch for the Holidays!

Outside Pizza Oven

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Subscribe and Connect

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Success Strategies For Your Business and Life

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DECEMBER 2014 CONTENT

105 Morovino Winery

124

The Entertainment

Wine Tasting on the Beach

Mark Nepo

Designs by Diann

110

“My Only Regret in Life is that I Didn’t Drink More Champaign” John Maynard Keyes

The Basics Of Bubbly

By The Wine Coach Laurie Forster

118 By Nancy Mueller

Breaking Free During the Holidays

132

156

Yoga Pants, Who Knew?

Bruce Wiseman

138

154

7,000 Ways To Listen

Beat Holiday Blues, Stress and Headaches

Business Management During Holiday Distractions

Tracy Repchuk, Bestselling Author

By B.J. Miller

146 Happy New Gear!

Shift Tactics in 2015

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Brenda Williams

162 Speakers & Meeting Calendar

E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 9

What is a Female Executive?

I am the one that makes the bread, weaves the fabric, creates the peace, negotiates the smiles, shuts it down and wakes it all back up.

I am the Swiss Army Knife of mankind.

I am the one that gives birth and keeps life goingwhether I have to nudge it with my heart, my mind, my blood or my foot!

I keep the bass rhythm of life moving.

I am that female that executes the needed, the necessary and the fantastic.

I am THAT female executive.

-Althea Ledford

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From the Editor and Chief Creative Officer

Welcome to the December issue of E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive. This Holiday Season our theme is

“Give Yourself the Gift of Bold Dreams. ” The momentum of purpose can drive us through uncomfortable situations and press us to do the hard work. Barbara Walters quoted as her most important piece of advise “Fight the Big Fight" and there is actually a science behind that statement.

In the mysterious chemistry of dream building, there are “finite variables” , one of them being your life span. And if you challenge the most difficult situations, learn those tough environments, a few wonderful things can happen.

1st.

2nd.

3rd.

4th.

5th.

You become less fearful of “The New”.

Your learning the terrain, even though your being challenged in it.

Your developing the right strategic muscles. Because your meeting , learning and overcoming incremental benchmarks.

Your training in the environment or a close simulation of what you will have to perform in.

Place yourself in the best possible environment in which to have your struggle. If this were the Navy, you would want to aim for the Navy Seals. If this were the stock market, you would want to pick Leihman Brothers. Your goal is to model Industry bests.

Getting back to “Finite Variables”, you only live once and you can’t sneak up on excellence and fantastic. You have to aim at it like Annie Oakley. Aim includes practice, study, failures, research and retries.

This Christmas give yourself the gift of Bold Dreams. The capture of Bold Dreams is closer than you think. Train, suit up and walk into your destiny.

I hope you enjoy this issue.

-Althea Ledford Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 11

Holiday Issue Contributors

Special Thanks to Gillian Larson.

Creator and Event Producer of Reality Rally

Chef Xiomara

Chef John Paul Chef Steve Cazel

Chef Rich Manicini

Chef Kevin Page 12 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

Laila S. Nabulsi, owner & Chocolatier of Masala Chocolates Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

Holiday Issue Contributors

Althea Ledford Editor and Chief Creative Officer

Laurie Forster The Wine Coach

Nancy Mueller

Barbara Wisman Wildlife & Ecology

Life Style

Aldeme Mitchell

Brenda Williams Lifestyle

BJ Miller

Bruce Wiseman Business

Creative Director

Premier Wellness Advocate

David Goodman

Rachal Isgar Etiquette

Lewis Huynh Technical

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Dr. Iyabo Daramola Ebola Expert

Franchise Expert

E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 13

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Subscription Link 1st Year 12This issues Free Visit Rockefeller Center Christmas!

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About the Designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka have been hailed by Vogue as one of the “Top 10 American Designers” and as the darlings of the Hollywood set.

The design duo has made their mark over the past two decades with glamorous, stylish and wearable evening wear and accessories.

Since joining forces in 1988, Badgley Mischka has captivated both the fashion press and prominent retailers around the world with a sophisticated style that caters to a young, modern couture customer, without forsaking women of any age. “Our style harks back to the Page 18 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

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glamorous Hollywood of the Forties,” says Mischka. “The Badgley Mischka signature style is simple, streamlined and thoroughly elegant.” Their designs are constructed of the finest fabrics and superior craftsmanship. There is always an element of interest, either in the silhouette or with luxurious detail. They have remained true to this design philosophy and the consistent integrity of their collections have pushed them to the

forefront of fashion. Clients ranging from presidential daughters to Hollywood awardwinners to society brides have chosen Badgley Mischka to ensure they look their best during some of the most memorable and stylish events of their lives.

Their timeless designs appeal to a range of fashionable women, including celebrities such as Madonna, Catherine Zeta Jones, Jennifer Lopez, Sharon Stone, Jennifer Garner, Julia Roberts, Kate Winslet, Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 19

Taylor Swift, Sarah Jessica Parker and Carrie Underwood.

Most recently, Helen Mirren and Queen Latifah defined glamour in Badgley Mischka Couture at the Oscars, while Glee’s Jayma Mays dazzled in Badgley Mischka Couture at the Golden Globes. There is a unique synergy between the talented duo, who met while studying at Parsons School of Design in New York.

They share a similar aesthetic about clothes and the way people dress. Both men spent time designing for leading names – Badgley for Donna Karan; Mischka, the men’s collection for WilliWear WilliSmith – before starting their own line. Within a few years, they had elevated their burgeoning fashion brand to include a bridal collection, elegantly detailed evening bags, and footwear – all to rave reviews.

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Badgley Mischka continues to grace the covers of countless magazines including Vogue and Women’s Wear Daily. In 2009, the brand launched its contemporary collection Mark + James by Badgley Mischka. Designed for a young yet sophisticated customer, Mark + James offers women a fresh, modern, sexy and more affordable way to wear the Badgley Mischka label.

Badgley Mischka is sold in the most prestigious stores in the world including Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue.

- See more at: http://www.badgleymischka.com Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

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David@franchisebizco

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Tis The Season…

Entertaining Tips for The Holidays.

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By Etiquette Expert Rachel Isgar E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 25

Entertaining Thanksgiving to Hanukah and Kwanza and Christmas can be a blur for some of us. Besides our busy enough every day lives now we sometimes face a huge “to do” list which can include entertaining, traveling to relatives, sending out holiday cards, gift buying, etc. It is a festive time of year but can also be stressful for many. It is no wonder that by New Year’s most of us are a little bit tired and ready to start out the New Year with a fresh slate. I have heard many friends and colleagues think about making plans to go on a vacation the following year.

In the November issue I wrote an article which touched on china and place settings and holiday decorations. As you plan your menu keep in mind that more and more people have food allergies. 



Ask your guests in advance if anyone is allergic to nuts. If so avoid nuts in all of your recipes.

More and more people are on dairy free and gluten free diets.

You don’t need to do anything different than you normally would but they may ask if it is o.k. to bring a dish with them.



A few of the recommendations in the November issue included:



As lovely as china is there are also lots of great disposable options.

It is o.k. to ask your guests to bring some of the dishes.

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If the host is relaxed and having fun, everyone else will follow the lead. If the host appears stressed that may wear off on the company.

Putting flowers or decorations out on the table gives a very festive look.

Choose decorations carefully since many families celebrate two religions and may not understand certain decorations (if you have children they may have a great time making the decorations under your guidance).

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Office Parties-Best Ways To Coordinate (more stand up than sit down) 

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Evaluate if it is better to have a party at lunch or if you want to invite spouse’s or significant others in the evening.

As social as a party may seem remember that it is a work event and you should be present and displaying good behavior. No flirting or sketchy behavior.

Remember not everyone celebrates Christmas so don’t forget that your colleagues may celebrate Hanukah or Kwanza.

If you are the Manager ask for your employee’s input.

Use disposable serving items when possible to make clean up easier on everyone. I also recommend it during the flu season.

Set a dress code if you expect something in particular Be on time. Treat your coworkers with respect.

If budget is an issue, potluck style is o.k. Use disposable paper goods for serving.

If you are sick it is o.k. to take a pass. In fact your co-workers would prefer you did!

Candles are beautiful but don’t put them out around children.

Use place cards if you don’t want certain people sitting near each other.

For children of parents who are divorced they may be thrilled that both of their parents are attending the same event. Parents should deal with any business they have prior to the event or at a later date (don’t let your child overhear this conversation).

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E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 27

Gifts Office Gift Exchanges  

Set a dollar amount and stick to it. Don’t ever appear cheap.

Do a mystery gift exchange where everyone’s name is written on a slip of paper and placed in a basket. Then each employee secretly draws the name of a co-worker.

Within Families Within extended families setting gift giving parameters:  Set a dollar amount and stick to it.

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Do a gift exchange where everyone’s name is written on a slip of paper and placed in a basket. Then each family member draws the name of a relative. This is also known as “Secret Santa” for those who celebrate Christmas.



We personally have a big extended family so we do the gift exchange some years just for the cousins.

Teacher Gifts 

Teacher gifts can be tricky because the school or PTA may ask for cash donations but then you still see the parents showing up with gift bags.

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Regifting What is regifting? For example, you give a gift to your friend for their birthday and they forget and give it back to you! What do you do? Do you say anything?

Here are some guidelines:  

 

Don’t regift with anyone in your family if the gift came from someone within your family.

If you do choose to regift do not open the gift and attempt to repackage it. Only give something which is brand new and in original packaging.

Make sure you don’t hurt anyone’s feeling along the way. Don’t tell someone their gift is a regift.

If it is a gift that you don’t like think hard about whether the person you want to give it to would really like it. Sometimes it is best to donate these types of gifts to a thrift store.

Hostess Gifts    

flowers bottle of wine disposable pretty paper napkins for the bathroom (perfect during the flu season) A nice box of tea or bag of coffee grounds (if you know the host likes this)

Thank You Notes I teach in all of my etiquette classes that any gift or really nice act of kindness should be followed up with a hand written than you note. 

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Personally I always donate to the teacher fund but then give a secondary smaller gift to the teacher.

 

If you are tight on your budget just donate a little bit to the teacher fund and then bake some cookies or prepare another treat for the teacher. Then you will feel on an even par with the rest of the class. The teachers greatly appreciate anything you do.

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If you have gone to someone’s house for Thanksgiving or other holidays make sure to send a thank you note or call the next day and thank the host.

Beautiful thank you notes can be purchased at Target, on-line at Amazon, etc…

Stock up on a package of thank you notes next time you are out and see them.

You only need to write 2 lines but it goes a long way!

E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 29

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It is better to send a thank you email or text, or call to say thank you than to do nothing at all. Don’t let an acknowledgement slip through the cracks. We are all busy but honestly writing a thank you note can be done in less than 5 minutes.

Some people stop giving gifts when they repeatedly are not thanked.

Years ago a friend told me that she really enjoys the holiday season because she takes it one day at a time! This has turned out to be great advice. Rather than getting overwhelmed with a constant “to do” list, try to tackle an item every day or two, rather than feeling like you need a lot of late nights to pull it all together. You might actually look forward to your checklist. Also shopping in November (before Black Friday) can relieve a lot of stress. Amazon

Prime is an amazing on-line mail order service if you are not compelled to get to the Mall. Holiday cards (if you send these out) really can get prepared in the fall. You also get great discounts on holiday cards by not ordering during the peak holiday season.

Remember take the holiday season one day at a time…

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www.PleasePassTheManners.com www.facebook.com/pleasepassthemanners

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The Vatican At Christmas The Vatican Website

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Now What Exactly Goes in a Man Cave Cave--Again?

Get the Scope on the Best Tech Tech--Xmas Picks of the Season.

By Lewis Huynh Page 34 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

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COMPANY LINKS

REVIEW LINKS SLICK DEAL FORUM

NEW EGG FORUM

The Christmas and holiday shopping season is a great time to upgrade and pick up new technology. Manufacturers are at that part of the product cycle where new models are being introduced, and retailers are looking to unload the previous generation. Before you go out there, keep a few tips on your list to help you with your shopping.

Black Friday As Black Friday is now in the rearview, are you worried that you’ve missed all of the good deals? Don’t be.

The phenomena of Black Friday spans decades upon decades, finding its first real consumer mention in Philadelphia. According to Martin L. Apfelbaum, (Philadelphia's "Black Friday," American Philatelist, vol. 69, no. 4, p.

239 (Jan. 1966)): “…’Black Friday’ is the name which the Philadelphia Police Department has given to the Friday following Thanksgiving Day. It is not a term of

endearment to them. ‘Black Friday’ officially opens the Christmas shopping season in Center City, and it usually brings massive traffic jams and over-crowded sidewalks as the downtown stores are mobbed from opening to closing…”

Since then, retailers have created sales and marketing strategies built around optimizing visitors to their brick and mortar stores with the hope that once a person steps foot beyond the doors, a steady flow of spending will occur. Some of these strategies take advantage of the psychology of “fear of loss,” by invoking the “one day only,” “best deal of the year,” and “limited quantity” sales. But have you ever noticed how just a few weeks later – before the last wave of Christmas shoppers – the same deals and merchandise suddenly reappear?

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Bla tha fron afte des sur tum nee

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Here you will find fellow shoppers with keenlytuned senses waiting to pounce on, and share, the latest and greatest. It’s a strong community of folks who want true value for their hard-earned dollars and this makes them a great ally. You will find forum members with high ratings for the volume of posts, and the quality of their posts, whom you’ll want to follow. However, do be wary of the few naysayers, as they may throw a distracting wrench into your deal-seeking plans.

For up close and personal product reviews from real people, try the Newegg review center (http:// www.newegg.com/Feedback/Reviews.aspx), and also the product reviews from purchasers on Amazon. As with Slickdeals, some reviewers have earned reputations for honest and real reviews that you’ll want to seek out wherever possible.

Technology Specifications decision? For TVs here are some things to consider:

 What definition is the right definition:   

ack Friday has become more of a week-long sales event at extends from the brick and mortar to the online storents, with several days preceding Friday and several days er. The reality is that in the weeks leading up to the madst of Christmas rushes, even more deals and specials will rface as retailers work to maintain the spending momenm. From here on out, a little bit of research is all you’ll ed to get the best deal for you and your family.

eviews and Opinions

e all like to talk about our deal conquests, and even more , our deal fiascos. Take advantage of this psychological enomenon by exploring and searching my own personal o-to” site: the Slickdeals forums tp://slickdeals.net/forums).

Page 37 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

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720p, 1080i, 1080p, or the new 4K? Let’s look at this more closely.

The more common TV resolutions break down like this…

720p is the first level of high definition TV, with an aspect ratio of 16:9 and a resolution of 1280x720 1080i and 1080p are the next step up as full high definition, or FHD. The aspect ratio is also 16:9 and the resolution bumps up to 1920x1080.

This resolution exists in an “i” signal where the frames are doubled, or interlaced, to create a better picture but with roughly the same bandwidth requirements of 720p. The “p” indicates a full progressive signal, and this is typically what we consider the upper echelon of high definition TVs. Recent technology has brought us ultra-high definition, UHD, in the form of the 2160p 4K TVs. With a striking 3840x2160 resolution, the emotional decision would be to go all the way to 4K.

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

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An average seating distance from the TV, and desired screen size, are the next things to know before choosing a resolution.

Using 8 feet as a base, for a TV of 32” or smaller, choosing 720p will provide you with a rich viewing experience that will cost less, allowing you to spend more on perks like SmartTV apps, or better audio (which we’ll cover later).

At 8 feet, 1080i would work best for TVs between 32” to 50”. With some overlap of the former, 1080p would be optimal for TVs between 40” and 65”.

Once you start getting over the 65” mark, the higher resolution offered by a 4K TV starts to make sense.

However, as you start to move further and further away from the TV, the eyes will adjust such that the high resolutions do not offer the same crispness and feel that the numbers might suggest. The bottom line is that you can get away with 720p on a 65” TV if

you sit 20 feet away.

The final thing to truly consider is content.

Right now, there really isn’t much in the way of UHD movies and TV. Not even Blu-Ray can take advantage of native UHD. Investing in a 4K TV now might seem like technology-proofing yourself for the future, but keep in mind that advances move at an accelerated pace. By the time we have movies that take advantage of 4K, yours might only be a year old, but the newer TVs may offer advances in audio, apps, in-house streaming, and connectivity, that your

one year old TV doesn’t.

The irony is that the technology you purchased to be ahead of the curve might actually put you behind the next new trend.

When we think of TVs, we usually invest all of our energies into the sights, and not the sounds. This is partly due to the growth of the multiple speaker home theatre experience. But it is also because there’s a certain tendency for built in audio to be only mediocre and we’ve mostly accepted that as a norm. Unless you already have a home theatre system or plan to get one, make sure you think of these things to give yourself room for growth.

Make sure it supports advanced digital audio processing:

Dolby Digital Decoder DTSExecutive Digital Decoder Page 38 E The Magazine for Today’s Female

Surround so Look for buil Favor TVs th Make sure y external aud RCA jacks Digital Fiber 3.5mm jacks

Include as as possible

At least 2 HD PC compute A USB port RCA Compo RCA Compo Consider a “

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These should have Wi-Fi network connectivity At least a few TV apps: Netflix Hulu Amazon Prime And if available, DLNA for media streaming If you want your TV this year, my recommendation is to find a top notch 1080p TV with all of the bells and whistles, and hang on to it while the content is being updated to match the 4K possibilities.

Now that you have your TV selected, why not complement it with a gaming console? You’re sure to have a happy household whether you have kids, or a husband who’s a bit of a geek. 2014 has been a groundbreaking year for gamers with new hardware taking root: Nintendo’s Wii U, Microsoft’s Xbox One, and Sony’s PlayStation 4.

Let’s look at how they compare.

Hardware

ound processing lt-in speakers of 20W or greater hat have compatible sound bars you have multiple methods to connect dio:

COMPANY LINK

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Optical (TOSLINK) jacks s

s many methods of connectivity e:

DMI inputs er VGA connector

Under the hood of game consoles these days mimics more and more what you’ll find in any of the top gaming computers. This includes powerful high definition video cards, multiple CPU’s running at high speeds, plenty of memory, fast disks, Bluetooth 2.1, USB 3.0, and both wired and wireless networking connections.

SLICK DEAL FORUM

NEW EGG FORUM

onent jacks osite jack “Smart TV” Page 39 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

The PlayStation 4 has an AMD Jaguar accelerated processing unit (or APU), that is comprised of two 1.6GHz CPU’s with eight cores total, and a dedicated Radeon 7000 800MHz graphics processor (GPU) with eighteen computing units.

Mated to this is 8GB of DDR5 RAM. For the growing reliance of online play and streaming of content, the network becomes a crucial link in the chain. In order to address this, it has a dedicated ARM CPU with 256MB of DDR3 RAM for networking.

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The Xbox One also has an AMD Jaguar APU, with two 1.75Ghz processors (though not as customized as the PS4’s AMD chips) totaling eight cores, and a Radeon 7000 853MHz graphics processor with twelve computing units. Memory is also 8GB, but note that the memory here is a slower 3rd generation of DDR RAM. Unlike the PS4, there is no dedicated secondary CPU for networking.

With these two juggernauts of computing and graphics power, the Wii U has specs more in line with the previous generation PS3 and Xbox 360. In fact, it sports a 3GHz IBM PowerPC CPU that is very similar to the Xbox 360’s. The graphics processor is an AMD Radeon “Latte” chip that is based on the R700 series (three generations beyond the Radeon chips on the PS4 and Xbox One). However, there is a secondary ARM CPU that runs the operating system leaving the PowerPC chip just to the40 game processing.

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Given Thethe Xbox specs Oneabove, takes the thirdPS4 withsimply just over slaughters 300 gam t Wii available.

U making it a two horse race with the Xbox One Online Experience taking second:  The Without PS4any generates online presence, textures atthe 14Mbytes/second Wii U bows ou this section. versus the Xbox One’s 12Mbytes/seconds.  More Microsoft of the has PS4 hadgames a tumultuous can usetime a native with 1080p its Xbo Live, creating resolution at 60 controversy frames/second, with itswhile policies the Xbox and rig O ous stances resorts to 900p, on paying 760p, or for1360x1080, services others which provid are free, up-scaled then but winningtosome 1080p. consumers over with bet  Thanks online game to theplay 5th generation then Sony’sDDR, PlayStation memoryNetwo read Microsoft’s are often 40% Xbox to 50% One has faster continued than on the thatXbox bad tre O with content locking and limiting, for example ch ing aAvailability fee for Netflix on top of Netflix’s own month Game fee.  The Wii U currently has the largest game share Sony’s PlayStation Network friendlier a cas easily 450+ available.

But itsisgames aretoprimari gamer with many services for free andl Nintendo-developed.

Thirdavailable party games series getting better for the true enthusiasts by building Assassin’s Creed, Metal Gear Solid, Call of Duty its backend its aren’t paid services.

Grand Theftfor Auto available. 

The PS4 comes in second with about 380+ gam Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

mes the e

utds, of

 The Xbox One takes third with just over 300 games available.

Online Experience  Without any online presence, the Wii U bows out of this section.  Microsoft has had a tumultuous time with its Xbox Live, creating controversy with its policies and rigorous stances on paying for services others provide for free, but winning some consumers over with better online game play then Sony’s PlayStation Network.

Microsoft’s Xbox One has continued that bad trend with content locking and limiting, for example charging a fee for Netflix on top of Netflix’s own monthly fee.  Sony’s PlayStation Network is friendlier to a casual gamer with many services available for free and is getting better for the true enthusiasts by building up its backend for its paid services.

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 One thing that is very clear with the PS4 and Xbox One is that they are vying to be the solitary entertainment device for the home, offering all traditional forms of entertainment such as playing DVD and Blu-ray movies, as well as music CD’s. To try to tap dance their way into your home, they also offer these Apps:

online service and supported apps.

Based on the current pricing structure and deals, it is also likely to be the better value.

In the final analysis if you have a little birdie whispering in your ear about any one system over the other, feel confident that any one of the three is a solid decision.

Conclusion As you head off to the stores armed with info and confidence that is sure to impress the sales associate on the floor, bring a few patience pills along as you brave this year’s festive Christmas and holiday shopping season. It is certain to raise a few tempers, shorten a few fuses, and soil a few diapers. When that happens, take a few deep breaths to calm yourself, and remember that you’re there for someone you love.

About Myself

A little about myself... I’m a self-prescribed computer geek, former sponsored skateboarder, hacker, and phone phreaker who went straight with 10 years of volunteering and tutoring in the inner-city. I spent time with the homeless, and taught guitar to children. Now I have taken my life experiences and love for technology to new projects and people. By parlaying an enlightening 5 years at university and as many in the semiconductor industry as an Engineer, I have had the fortune of applying all of that knowledge and experience to large and small companies alike. Now I am looking to share some of those thoughts to a wider audience.

Given all that, the compelling answer might be to purchase a PlayStation 4 and call it “mission accomplished.” It offers the better performance, a broader immediate game landscape, and many free value adds through their

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Credits: Trusted Reviews Female Executive Page 41 E The Magazine for Today’s

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Launched in 2003, when file folders were manila, post-it® notes were canary yellow and binders were something to hide in the cabinet, russell+hazel achieved a new freshness with color and pattern, creating an instant appeal. Since then, that small collection of office and school tools has grown to include journals, note cards and totes. russell+hazel has an instantly recognizable style language, developed through colors and patterns that capture the essence of who we are and what we stand for. While fresh in spirit, the products represent a constant and complete dedication to quality.

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Here, the newest pieces, past favorites and design inspirations are found.

Equally at ease in the world of home/office décor and fashion, russell+hazel is one of the truly innovative and creative teams working in the world of design today.

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The Beverly Wilshire Doe 24

About Years ago, on the Friday after Thanksgiving, I decided to walk down Rodeo Drive. As we were walking, the sun was setting and the trees suddenly lite with tiny white lights. What a surprise!

Really

Then, we stopped and picked up biscotti and coffee and continued walking towards Wilshire Blvd. As we approached the end of the street right in front of the Beverly Wilshire, was a full Choir and then in front of the choir was the incomparable Mel Torme singing “Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas”.

And at that moment I thought-I will never forget this. And if it never happens again in my life that I would stumble upon Mel Torme and a full choir singing in the middle of the street. The magic

happened, that day right in front of the Beverly Wilshire.

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es Christmas!

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It’s difficult to impress people. It’s also difficult to create a significant experience amidst so much competition. And it’s nearly impossible to hit those high expectations year after year.

A few rare institutions manage this feat.

For that reason, E Magazine is featuring The Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel this Christmas.

The Beverly Wilshire Hotel “creates” an individual sense of pampering and importance. Whether your just meeting for lunch to a full overnight stay-you feel “well taken care of”.

In this article, E Magazine Looks at it’s management, staff and top female executives to garner a sense of what makes The Beverly Wilshire such a spectacular Christmas experience.

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We start with “THE Blvd” Restaurant and it’s Executive Chef.

CHEF DE CUISINE Claudia Fossa Born in Lima, Peru, Claudia was initially inspired to the kitchen by her “hobby chef” father and her mother, which eventually lead her to study and graduate from Le Cordon Bleu in her hometown. After working professionally in Peru, Claudia started her career at Four Seasons with an internship at Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach before joining the banqueting operation at Four Seasons Hotel Doha.

Upon returning to the Americas after five years in Doha, Fossa joined the team at Punta Mita creating new menus and interactive experiences for her guests.

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Now at Beverly Wilshire, Chef Claudia draws on her own Peruvian background when developing new dishes for THE Blvd.

For the Fish Ceviche for example, Fossa explains “this

is a very traditional plate in Peru. I wanted to take a part of my heritage and mix in a bit of California flair, so I added the popular local ingredient, quinoa,” she explains. “The acidity of the lime complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes, and is expertly paired with the crunch of quinoa and spice of the ajy.”

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The Restaurant THE Blvd is a chic, sophisticated restaurant and lounge located inside Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel). With views overlooking the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive, this Contemporary-American all-day dining restaurant is the see-and-be -seen place in Beverly Hills.

Upon entering the stylish restaurant with lofty ceilings & large windows, guests are immediately captivated by the crystal chandelier in the center of the room.

The world-class restaurant’s distinctive lounge is complete with a breathtakingly beautiful 18foot illuminated onyx bar & backlit wine display featuring over 1,000 bottles.

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Enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner or dessert, or just relax and enjoy light bites. Additionally, the lively al fresco restaurant seating area is the perfect place to gather with friends & family, or enjoy an intimate evening for two.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner Bar Bar Brunch

6:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.

(Sunday – Thursday) 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.

(Friday – Saturday) 11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

(Saturday – Sunday)

THE BLVD Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel) 9500 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 310.385.3901

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communications, spanning New York, Los Angeles, Toronto and Paris, and includes work with Conde Nast Digital, Canadian Tourism Commission, Rodeo Drive, French Connection, Vogue, Forbes, Strategic Group, Nicole Miller, Hugo Boss and Four Seasons Hotels.

When asked about the Customer Services this is what she had to say.

Question: What does the

Carrie Mitchell - Director of Public Next we talked with Carrie Mitchell, Director of Public Relations.

staff at the Beverly Wilshire do to get ready for Christmas?. How do you come up with the special Relations holiday menu, the decor, the preparation for the holidays. This information can include any one that's involved both men and women.

Carrie Mitchell is the Director of Public Relations at Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, Founder of Stylegroove Communications, and sits on the Board of Director's for the Rodeo Drive Committee. Her diverse background includes editorial, digital strategy, media production, marketing and Page 58 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

Answer: Preparing for the holidays is a full team effort at Beverly Wilshire. From our food & beverage team who plan the many holiday amenities and menus, to our florist planning out the holiday decor and strategy with engineering, to sales & marketing creating room packages and guest experiences....

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to the concierge team putting together holiday itineraries, catering team executing events, and beyond.

We even work with the City of Beverly Hills and the Rodeo Drive Committee in an effort to coordinate our holiday lighting ceremony every year.

Question: A more important question is how has the hotel been able to maintain the "feel of excellent customer service". Who teaches the staff this quality?

Answer: Providing exceptional personalized service is the foundation of the Four Seasons philosophy, where we operate from the Golden

Rule: treat people well, the way you would like to be treated.

During the interview Carrie mentioned that the Beverly Wilshire has a team of fantastic female executives including:

Kelley Moreton Director of Rooms Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

Jeanne Mills Chef Concierge

Annette Zeller, Associate Director of Catering

Geraldine Korss, Senior Sales Manager

Kiersten Dunn Public Relations Assistant Manager

Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

9500 Wilshire Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90212, USA phone: 310-858-2382 web: http://www.fourseasons.com/ beverlywilshire E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 59

Visit The Getty...

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E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 61

There is so Much Goodness I still haven’t figured out why I am often moved to tears each time I see a demonstration of affection and communication between different species. But I am. There is something immensely touching and sweet about it.

Perhaps you’ve seen the charming story and photos that have gone viral around the Internet about the baby hippo who was lost to its mother during the Asian Tsunami in 2004. Washed far away, it was found and transported to a sanctuary in Kenya where it became emotionally attached to a 130year old female tortoise named Mzee. Mzee took a bit of time to warm up, but eventually adopted the hippo, now called Owen, and, through her mothering, taught him basic survival activities.

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Then there is the heartwarming story of Bella the elephant and Tara the dog. Having become inseparable friends at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, eating, sleeping, and spending their days together, Bella held vigil for 3 solid weeks below a second floor office when Tara injured her spine and had to be kept there for recovery. Despite 1,500 acres of land to roam, Bella stayed as close as they would let her get, until Tara was finally able to rejoin her friend.

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s Around Us! Lawrence Anthony, world renowned as “The Elephant Whisperer”, told me many similar stories as we would sit around a campfire on his exclusive private game preserve in South Africa. Surrounded by an abundance of wildlife in the African bush, there were endless true stories from him and the local rangers of the extraordinary relationships of life in communication with life.

One of my favorites had become a world news item when it first occurred. His beloved herd of wild elephants showed up one day at a corral where he and his game rangers had rounded up a herd of antelope that were to be shipped to another reserve for breeding purposes. The rangers were certain that the elephants were there because they wanted to eat the food that had been laid out for the antelope. Nana,

By Barbara Wiseman the matriarch, began fiddling with the locks on the gate with her trunk and finally managed to get it opened.

As Lawrence liked to say about her, “Clever girl!” But, instead of then going into the corral to eat the food, the herd stepped back while the antelope escaped, and then Nana and her family moved off back into the bush. Lawrence and his team were astonished to have witnessed one species rescuing another.

When Lawrence’s brother once traveled by ship from Europe to the U.S., it happened that there was a small herd of elephants on board being delivered to a zoo.

One day during the crossing, the ship began to list to one side. Suddenly alarmed, those on board rushed out of their cabins to find out what was going on, only to find that the elephants were all on one side of the vessel, leaning out over the edge, and, astonishingly, in communication with a pod of whales who were swimming along side; the low stomach rumbles of the ellies and the clicks, whistles, and pulsed calls of the whales creating a cacophony between these jumbos of land and sea. And they

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stayed like that, continuing to communicate, for over an hour as the ship continued forward.

It all reminds me of the story I heard of how Richard Curtis got the idea for the film he wrote and directed, Love Actually. He was sitting in an airport one day and saw how much love there was around him. People warmly greeting people or lovingly saying goodbye; children hugging grandparents, brothers and sisters hugging siblings, family so happy to see each other, people exuberant at the arrival of their friends. He realized that the reality of how much love there is around us is completely different from the false portrayal of life one gets when repeatedly subjecting oneself to the daily news.

There is so much more goodness around us than bad; so much more agreement than disagreement. And so much more love, spoken or unspoken, than hate. I’m not talking about sappy or passionate love, but rather the simple respect, regard for, and care that people exhibit for others to one degree or another. The merchants of chaos around us are, percentage-wise, few in number. They tend to make a lot of noise so one thinks there are more of them then there are.

And they want us to think that everyone is like them. But it is just not true. Most people are just trying to get on with their lives while making things better for themselves and others, or at least not intending to harm others.

And isn’t it interesting, that when we expand our view out to look beyond just our one species to all species, we find the same thing....animals just trying to get on with their lives, and making things better for themselves and others. Yes, of course, the ecological system structured around the food Page 65 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

chain is built upon higher forms consuming lower forms to create the necessary energy they need to operate, and that process is going on every second of the day as life evolves forward.

But the action of elephants rescuing a herd of antelope from a cage is not the random act of mobile bags of meat. These are thinking, sentient creatures who had a specific purpose to release other creatures from containment, and who followed through a series of steps to obtain that goal.

Fundamentally, this urge towards mutual perpetuity between species goes far beyond what most people have taken the time to consider. Our organization conceived a term to describe this universal mechanism, as it is the basic philosophy upon which the Lawrence Anthony Earth Organization operates, and we trademarked it. Cooperative Ecology® is the study of the mutual interdependency and cooperation of all life forms and the material world. All life forms are interdependent and engaged upon the same objective - to survive - and are acting in mutual support of this objective for their mutual perpetuation.

One of the most gorgeous examples of Cooperative Ecology that recently came across my desk is what occurred when a small pack of wolves was introduced into Yellowstone National Park. There had been no wolves there for over 70 years and the transformation that occurred to both the wildlife and the physical land in the area within just the first six years was astonish-

The vegetation began to come back, reforesting many areas.

Some of the trees grew to four times their previous size! Because of the interconnectedness of the eco system, the wolves’ reintroduction ing.

caused song birds and hawks, beavers, otters, muskrats, ducks, fish, reptiles, Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

amphibians, rabbits, mice, weasels, foxes, badgers, ravens, bald eagles, and bears to return and/or proliferate.

The moment a person, or any life form for that matter, begins to fall away from the concept of mutual cooperation with all other life forms and the material world, his/her capability to survive diminishes. One

of less erosion, they began to meander less, and more pools formed, creating even more wildlife habitats; all in a seamless demonstration of Cooperative Ecology. If you haven’t already seen the beautiful video of it that has gone massively viral, do take a look.

sees, unfortunately, endless examples of this in the world today. Tossing a plastic cup into a street gutter and, thereby, potentially harming wildlife and marine life; dumping

And most remarkable, as a direct result of the wolves, was the change in the behavior of the rivers. Because

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toxic waste into our oceans and leaving it to negatively impact other life forms and human health; killing off an entire species based on a myopic desire to make art from it’s tusks, or herbal remedies from its body parts.

The list of violations to the principle of Cooperative Ecology, of course, is long. And to that degree, Man’s potential for long-term survival has lessened.

But contrary to the rest of the Animal Kingdom, we have the ability to reason at a level such that we can sort out the problems we have created and turn these situations around.

And from a fundamental perspective, isn’t that what the holidays are really about? A wonderful opportunity for us all to take some time with family, friends and associates, to celebrate what we agree on, and to bring about harmony, better cooperation and mutual supportive existence. This year’s holiday season, let’s extend that reach out for harmony to the other species around us, as well!

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On the Front Line With Ebola Iyabo O. Daramola, MD Shares an Intimate Update

O

ver 15,000 cases of Ebola Virus Disease

(EVD) have been reported in the region including approximately 7000 deaths. The Ebola Virus epidemic which was initially viewed as a West African problem has affected over 15,000 people and claimed over 5000 lives. It is an epidemic of Global significance. But the experts are of the opinion that the death rate due to the Ebola virus infection is not as important as the rate at which the infection is spreading.

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In August/September 2014 Caring Hearts Medical Foundation received a request for assistance from Benson Hospital a local hospital in Monrovia, Liberia. Caring Hearts Medical Foundation mounted a local campaign in San Diego on behalf of victims of the Ebola Virus Epidemic in Liberia the hardest hit West African Country to obtain much needed medical supplies and personal protective equipment to assist in curbing the spread of the Virus which was spreading at an alarming rate.

San Diego local hospitals, health care facilities, government officials, local businesses, philanthropists and individuals responded generously Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

(Top-Left)The private-charter 747 emergency airlift, (Top-Left) Loading the Plane, (Bottom Right) The President of Liberia and a team of Doctors and ((Bottom-Left) Supplies waiting to be loaded on plane.

donating over 3 tons of Gowns, Gloves, and other medical supplies which were transported along with a large shipment (100 tons of emergency medical aid) donated by Direct Relief International via private-charter 747 emergency airlift from NY JFK on Saturday, 20 September 2014 for communities fighting Ebola in Liberia and Sierra Leone.

The timely delivery of these supplies went a long way towards controlling the spread of the virus.

This shipment was privately funded by Direct Relief and charitable contributions to Direct Relief.

In the wake of the Ebola Virus epidemic, I visited Lagos, Nigeria late September 2014 for about 10 days. I was very impressed with the aggressive campaign that the Nigerian Government mounted to promote widespread awareness about the EBOLA Virus epidemic to its citizens. Information was provided to citizens of all levels of education regardless of their level of literacy through the media including radio, television, newspapers, Bill Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

Boards and social media. Nigerian nationals were provided information to raise their awareness about the virus and how to prevent transmission of the disease in all dialects.

At all ports of entry and exit into Nigeria, quarantine stations was set up. These stations were the first point of entry and exit even before passport control.

Temperatures of all persons entering or leaving Nigeria were taken using infra-red no touch thermometers. Anyone with an elevated temperature was not allowed to enter or leave the country.

Owners of businesses that served the public were required to purchase no touch thermometers and test all persons entering their facilities. Businesses

which included banks and stores were also required to have hand washing stations as well as sanitizers outside of their building for use by their patrons prior to going into the building.

E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 71

The Nigerian Government also shut down all elementary schools and delayed the resumption of schools until there was certain that the virus was contained.

On October 20, 2014, the federal republic of Nigeria was officially declared EBOLA free by the World Health Organization. A success story for a nation with a population of over $200 million.

Other West African Countries, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea were not so lucky. The infection rate is still high in Sierra Leone with 6802 reported cases. The infection rate has been decreasing in Liberia with the death toll now standing at 4181.

Liberia was the hardest hit country recording over 50% of deaths in the region. Liberia is still not out of the woods reporting 20-25 new cases a day.

Upon my return from my trip on October 3, 2014 along with hundreds of other passengers returning from West Africa, I was shocked that in the wake of an epidemic of such international significance and such a high death toll no quarantine measures Page 72 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

were in place at the International Airport in Atlanta Georgia or any other US Airport for that matter.

That bothered me because of the 21 day incubation period of persons infected with Ebola Virus.

Since then, new federally mandated quarantine 21day self-monitoring quarantine periods for passengers entering the United States from affected West African Countries have been instituted.

In hindsight, the international response to the Ebola Virus Epidemic should have been handled as a top priority and the response should have been much more aggressive and swift .The spread of the virus would have been halted and the mortality rate of this epidemic would not have reached the proportions that it did. This epidemic was initially being viewed as a “West African problem” but with widespread international travel, an epidemic of this magnitude is a global problem and an International Crisis deserving of a top priority response.

The slow response of the international community resulted in a rapid spread and increase in Mortality from EVD. Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

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Since then, the International community’s response to this epidemic has resulted in a marked reduction in the spre.

The latest statistics from Liberia indicate that these numbers have dropped significantly and the situation is under much better control with the strong presence of international community providing logistical support, professional expertise and state of the art Ebola Treatment Centers.

Vaccines and Treatments on the Horizon: Vaccine The first test of an Ebola vaccine in people shows it's safe and appears to be working as designed, doctors reported Wednesday. November 26, 2014.

A look at the first 20 people injected with the vaccine, which has been shown to protect monkeys from Ebola, shows no dangerous side effects.

And it seems to be producing an immune response that would be expected to protect them from infection.

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The National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases helped develop and test the vaccine. ad and overall mortality of this disease.

Treatment Post Convalescent Serum: An analysis of blood collected from rom survivors of Ebola Virus Infection show the blood to be loaded with antibodies against the Ebola virus. Trials are underway to begin treatment of infected patients in Sierra Leone with plasma transfusions from EVD survivors.

Oxford University scientists will lead a third trial, the location of which is still to be decided, funded by the Wellcome Trust. They will test the antiviral drug brincidofovir, made by Chimerix of Durham, North Carolina. is effective against the Ebola virus in the lab but has not been tried in animals. However, there is good evidence of its safety in humans from trials against other viruses, and it is easy to take as it is in pill form. Up to 140 patients will be involved. International Medical Corps has opened up its sixth Ebola treatment center and is looking for Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

committed individuals to work in Centers in Sierra Leone and Liberia. Assignments vary in length are for a minimum of six weeks commitment for qualified healthcare practitioners.

Most of the assignments require international or overseas experience however training includes the treatment and care of individuals placed into an Ebola treatment center, and the proper use of PPE. All individual traveling to the field will be provided health medical insurance and medical emergency insurance coverage in the event of an evacuation.

Interested individuals should please contact International Medical Corps Recruiting Team at ebolarecruit@internationalmedicalcorps.org.

Iyabo O. Daramola, MD Dr. Daramola founded Caring Hearts Medical Clinic in 2000. She graduated Medical School at University of Ife, Nigeria and completed Residency training at Sinai Hospital Detroit and University of Hawaii Internal Medicine Residency Program. She is Board Certified in Internal Medicine. Her practice focus is on primary preventive health. Prevention of disease Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

is the key to maintaining optimal health and wellness. Her vision for the clinic is a warm safe place where patients could come and be truly cared for.

Our patients are treated like family members and feel truly cared for after an office visit. This is one clinic where you are not treated like a number as a result, visits sometimes take longer. Dr. Daramola believes in serving the community and established Caring Hearts Medical Foundation and our free clinic 11 years ago.

The Free clinic is open to members of the community who have no health insurance and need health care. Our vision is to open a community health center to care for underserved residents of Paradise Hills and surrounding communities.

Iyabo O. Daramola, MD, Medical Director Caring Hearts Medical Clinic and Foundation 2401 Reo Drive San Diego CA 92139-3025 Office: 619.479.6767 Fax: 619.434.8840 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 75

MacKenzie-Childs Palm Beach Store:

238 Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, FL 33480 Phone: 561-832-9877

For assistance, please call 1-888-665-1999 or email: customerservice@mackenzie-childs.com

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MacKenzie MacKenzie--Childs Holiday

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E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 79

3 Ultimate Franchise Gifts for this Holiday Season (Ultimate because you don’t send money, you teach them how to make money!)

By David Goodman, Founder /CEO of Franchise Biz Consulting

Once again this is David Goodman writing for the Franchise Forum and Happy Holiday. This month, in the religious sense, is a serious and holy month. However, it is also, a gift giving month for many people. One might ask, “Why do we give gifts on Christmas?” One answer is that the 3 Magi gave the baby Jesus the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh which eventually started the gift giving season. That, in turn, brings us to the more modern version of gift giving. There are many reasons why we give gifts. It could be for religious observance, tradition, love, guilt, income tax purposes, reciprocity, secret Santa participation, mandatory, or a host of other reasons. I am somewhat ashamed to say that I guess I have been guilty of most of them!

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However, in my mind’s eye, there is one overriding theme that is playing out whenever I buy a gift and it is the same for everybody. It is really telling the recipient that at some time in the recent past the giver has spent at least a few minutes thinking only of the recipient.

That is actually a very profound concept and that is what I want to convey to everyone in my reading audience on this holy of holy holidays. Know that every gift you receive is really a gift of time. The sender or giver, if you will, had spent a measure of time thinking only of you. Regardless of what the physical package is, the incontrovertible fact is that someone spent time out of their day to find, wrap, and pay for that gift. In my mind, that concept, unto itself, is the real gift.

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What Does All This Have To Do With Franchises?

Now, what does this have to do with Franchises? It is very simple.

Franchises can also, become a gift.

One might say, yeah… and a very expensive gift. Actually let’s spend a few minutes and dissect what a Franchise is and what it can do for the recipient. Franchises can be the fastest and surest path to build wealth … on your terms. Could you think of a more valuable gift than the gift of making money?

(Begging the issue that money is not happiness, but it surely can be a means for capturing it!)

A true story comes to mind about a very wealthy family who had a daughter who refused to grow up. She went to the finest schools and received her MBA in business and finance but wanted to be a globe trekker for the fun of it. The family was concerned that not having the means for emotional grounding, the woman may never become a contributing and valuable member of society.

There was a wind-fall profit in a stock transaction that allowed the family to give their daughter for her 25th birthday an automobile dealership!

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Well, you and I might think this may be a little extravagant. To this family it was not.

However, we are all human and we may find ourselves in a similar situation with a child who has not as yet, found their way in life.

Perhaps, the better alternative to sending money in a perpetual spiral would be to find them a business; a business that already has a built in system for success and has repetitively displayed via history, a successful and consistent outcome.

Running a Franchise Can Be the Glue of Reason.

The 25 year old initially did not fully comprehend that there was a reason for learning all those business precepts. She finally made the connection, the reason if you will, between learning the rules and then implementing them. She became one of the most successful women in the state.

Her business grew into many other dealerships and employed hundreds of people.

This is not a “Rags to Riches” story… one might call it a “Did not Know to Dough” story! But the outcome is the same, the opportunity to grow through learning a proven successful business system proved to be the ticket out of a nonproductive to very productive life.

E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 81

viously most of us do not have 2 million dollars to give to a child or grandchild. But franchises have proven over and over again to be a great way of not, giving a family a fish for a meal but actually teaching them how to fish for all their meals… forever. The actual cost of the business is not the deciding factor for success but rather paying attention to the business trends, needs, desires, skill-set and finances of the candidate in the correct incremental mixture can help to insure success. Franchise Consultants should be constantly up-dating their formula for success and can match the candidate’s criteria with a perfect fit.

Ultimate Gift Number 1 I had the dubious honor to work with the daughter of my client. I say she was my client because she was a referral from a prior candidate who became a franchisee.

direction and finally dropped out. She was floundering and starting to get in trouble. Her mom complained that she was worried because Alex was starting to hang out with other people who were not what a parent would call desirable.

The mother did not know what to do. She was retired and had very little extra money but was comfortable. Very similar to the story I recounted about the woman who eventually settled down and became a pillar of society and a role model to many youths throughout the country. Of course in this story Alex’s family was certainly not wealthy.

But there was a need to help launch a child who might be drifting in an unhealthy manner. I surveyed the entire situation. for me was to find the financing to accomplish this task. I spoke in depth to Alex and her mom, Mary Ann. We, notice I said “we” because when I work with anyone I instill in them that this is a team effort. Taking that bent, the opportunity to find a successful placement goes up exponentially.

The mom had told me that her daughter (we will call her Alex) was a bright girl but simply could not find her place in the world.

She went to college but really had no

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I was able to use Alex’s mother’s 401K to help fund the enterprise.

She was not even aware that it was possible to do that. With the funds available, I suggested 3 opportunities. It was extremely rewarding to see these two people who were starting to drift apart become galvanized in the thought process of finding a real life with great opportunity and potential.

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Watch David Tell Us About The Top 3 Franchise with Low Cost Entry

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What Was The Franchise They Chose?

Love your dog? Thought of putting him a cage for a week or two upsetting? Now you don't have to. Introducing the #1 pet lodging alternative and the most unique pet franchise in the industry. Your cherished pet is cared for in a pre-screened private home by dog lovers. The business model has you/and or your staff providing round trip pick-up and delivery. They provide loving pet care with no cages or kennels. Clients can enjoy vacations and business trips without guilt. This is a low investment with exceptionally high returns. It is easy to run, simple to manage and if you love animals...the perfect pet franchise.

It's peace of mind for the client and a "home environment" for that special member of the family.

This was the perfect gift for Alex and to be honest for Mary Ann, too! One might say that she was pulled out of retirement to help her daughter. However, you could not really hang that idea on Mary Ann. Because this was not really work. It could be done from her home and what could be a better gift but to renew a relationship with your daughter?

Ultimate Gift Number Two I remember that Christmas is, also, family day. Typically on Christmas Day everyone gathers around the beautifully adorned tree and, in turn, opens up the presents one by one. The children most likely woke up extra Page 84 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

early and already opened up the ones in the biggest wrapped boxes first.

As the wonderful day progresses the living room is transformed into a whirl of empty boxes and festive wrapping paper with a mix of religious and Xmas holiday songs playing in the background. However, in this particular home something was a little out of the norm. Aunt Martha was not there. She had been there every Christmas to open up presents and see the children beaming because of the new bike or muffin baking kit they received. But she was not there. Aunt Martha was a retired but successful real estate executive. She had no children of her own but she did have a wonderful family via Cathy, who was the grown daughter of her deceased twin sister. Her sister, Brenda had past 5 years ago and Martha now was the overseer and financial protector of Cathy and her three children. They always included Aunt Martha on virtually every family get together.

In actuality, I had been working with Martha. She wanted me to find a franchise that was somehow tied to the real estate market. This was the gift she was giving to her deceased sister’s daughter. This would allow the family to be completely self-sufficient. And this is what we came up with.

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When you join Property Management Inc. you will join the only property management franchise system that delivers to its franchise owners the training, support and systems to manage both residential and commercial properties.

By combining the multi-billion dollar residential real estate market with the multibillion dollar commercial real estate market an unsurpassed opportunity is created.

Property Management Inc. is the vehicle for serious, executive minded business owners to create a secure income stream in a mature industry.

Needless to say when Aunt Martha came in the room and brushed off the snow from her coat they were all ecstatic to see her. But when she sat down with a big brown envelope in her hand, they wondered what present could be in the large manila envelope? When Cathy opened up the envelope she could hardly believe her eyes. One might think the gift was for Cathy and her family. Actually one could, also, surmise that it was really for Aunt Martha. What I mean by that is now, every day that Martha is with the family, she comforted to know that she will never have to worry about what will become of the family when she is gone.

However on a higher plane, this gift transcends all bounds of time because this is a gift that Aunt Martha has, also, given to her departed twin sister by way of insuring financial continuity of Cathy’s family. The gift of financial stability is certainly an example of an Ultimate Christmas gift

Ultimate Gift, Number 3 (The best of the best) The last gift which I put into the Ultimate Gift category, hopefully, will be quite apparent at the end of . this short paragraph. I hope my Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

readers agree with me that this is among the best of the best. This took place 15 years ago. I had fought for two years togain custody of my son. After litigating with 2 separate legal teams Pro Se, I was awarded custody of my then 12 year old son. I lived in a upper middle class township that had a Blue Ribbon High School in my district. I saw immediately that my son was struggling. His grades simply were not good. Actually, his overall performance and attitude toward school was not conducive to the attributes of a college bound individual. I tried to help him but I saw right away I needed help. I took him to:

Just to make a long story short. He graduated with top honors from that Blue Ribbon School and went on to receive a Bachelors degree. He then was awarded a Fellowship to one of the top universities in the country to study the human brain. He is about one year away from receiving a PhD in one of the most difficult disciplines in any doctoral program.

One could easily say that giving the gift of learning how to learn and liking it could easily be considered an Ultimate Gift. However, let’s compound that with the fact that when he attains that doctoral status, my pride will be a gift he gives to me.

In retrospect I can truly say by way of these three examples, when it comes to giving a franchise as a gift, that action becomes a two way street! Happy Holiday and Merry Christmas to everybody!

Franchise Biz Consulting, LLC Professionally Find A Fabulous Franchise...Free!

David Goodman Office 818 578 8706 Cell 856 287 0303 Email Address: david@franchisebizconsulting.com Website: http://www.franchisebizconsulting.com If you are truly serious about taking the control of your life out of the hands of others and finally seizing your own destiny, please call me.

E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 85

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Special Thanks To Gillian Larson, and the Reality Rally Chefs For Event Tickets and More information Visit www.realityrally.com

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Entertainment foods, Drinks and Desserts Carrot Cake Parfait

Ingredients Vegetable-oil cooking spray 8 ounces carrots, peeled and grated (about 4 cups) 2 large eggs 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar 1 cup safflower oil 1 tablespoon grated peeled fresh ginger 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 cup apricot jam Cream-Cheese Filling (see recipe below)

Fold flour mixture into carrot mixture.

2. Spread batter in pan. Bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Let cool in pan on a wire rack 20 minutes.

Invert onto rack; let cool completely. Cut out 16 cake rounds to fit in an 8-to-10-ounce glass, piecing together scraps as necessary.

3. Spoon 2 tablespoons jam into each glass; layer with 1/4 cup filling, then 2 cake rounds, pressing to compact. Top each with 2 tablespoons filling and serve.

Related: Delicious Desserts in 15 Minutes or Less Cream-Cheese Filling 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 1 cup confectioners’ sugar 2 tablespoons grated orange zest Pinch of coarse salt 1 cup heavy cream 1. Beat cream cheese on medium until smooth. Beat in sugar, zest, and salt. Fold in cream. Use immediately.

Rustic Pizza

DOUGH: 1/2 cake compressed yeast 2 c. strong bread flour 1 tsp. salt 2 tbsp. olive oil

FILLING: 2Lbs Ricotta Drained 2 Eggs 1 Lbs Cooked Italian sausage 8 Oz Chopped Supersatta Romano Cheese Salt Pepper Chopped Parsley

Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Coat a 12 1/2-by-17 1/2-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Line with parchment; spray parchment. Whisk together carrots, eggs, sugars, oil, and fresh ginger. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ground ginger.

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E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 89

Entertainment foods, Drinks and Desserts Granny Smith Apple Waldorf Salad with Walnuts & Grilled Chicken

Poached Pear stuffed with Gorgonzola Cheese, On Proscuitto Toast

Fill piping bag and pipe filling into cooked cored pears one by one. Serve sliced with Proscuitto Toast Points. See Demo.

Ingredients Serves 4-6        

2 ea. 8 oz. skinless, boneless chicken breast 2 ea.Granny Smith Green Apples 2 ea. Washington Red Apples ½ c.Mayonnaise 1 ¼c.Whipped Cream (stiff peaks)** ½ c. Raisins ½ c.Walnut pieces Salt & Pepper to taste

Whipped Cream:  

¼ c.Sugar ¾ c.Whipping Cream

Method: 1. Add ½ c. sugar and ¾ c. whipping cream in a small bowl.

2. With a stiff wire whisk, whip cream to stiff peaks (approx. 10 minutes). Hold in refrigerator.

3. Grill chicken over broiler and set on high heat. Lightly oil chicken before grilling to ensure nice marks and no sticking.

Cook thoroughly. Dice chicken into ¼” cubes and refrigerate.

4. Dice apples into ¼” cubes, removing core as you cut the apples. Add the diced apples to the whipped cream and chicken.

5. Add mayonnaise, toasted walnuts, and

raisins, mix well.

6. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Chill for 20 minutes before serving.

SPECIAL NOTE: For best results, chill mayonnaise, walnuts, apples and raisins before mixing together. This dish can be made one day in advance.

Ingredients 6 ea. Small Bartlett Pears, slightly firm (Peel & Save Tops, remove core) 3/4 c. Gorgonzola Cheese ¼ c. Chopped Parsley ½ c. Bread Crumbs 2 tb Milk ½ c. Dried White Figs, Chopped Fine 4 c.

Water ½ c. Corn Syrup 24 ea. Proscuitto Toast Points (see recipe) Salt & Pepper to Taste

Tools:

Ingredients for Proscuitto Toast Points (makes 24 pcs): 1 6 ea.

Large Slices of Whole Wheat Toast, Buttered, Toasted to a Golden Brown 2 8 oz.

Thinly Sliced Proscuitto 3 ¾ c.

Cream Cheese 4 ¼ c.

Cantaloupe, chopped 5 2 tb.

Sugar 6 1 tb.

Chopped Basil 7 ½ c.

Carrot Curls

Method for Toast Points:

Apple Corer Piping Bag

1. Cut 6 sliced of bread into 24

Method: 1. In a medium sized saucepot, bring 4 cups of water & corn syrup to a boil.

2. Carefully place peeled pears in saucepot and bring to a rapid boil (1 minute).

3. Turn to low heat and simmer 5-10 minutes until soft.

4. Remove from water. Let cool to room temperature. Set aside.

5. In a small steel bowl, mix gorgonzola cheese, milk, parsley, bread crumbs, salt & pepper. Stir well and chill.

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pieces, creating triangle shapes (see demo). Place on sheet pan.

2. In a medium sized steel bowl, mix melon & sugar & 2 tb. water if necessary (depending on consistency of melon), until mixture turns into a pulp. Add cream cheese & half of the basil. Mix until smooth. Spread evenly over toast points.

Lay shaved proscuitto carefully & evenly over toast points (1-2 layers maximum). Garnish with carrot curls & chopped basil.

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Entertainment

foods, Drinks and

Chestnut Crusted Pork Loin stuffed with Cranberry Cornbread, served with Red Pepper & Sweet Corn Relish

Method for Stuffed Pork Loin:

Ingredients: 1 ea.Pork Loin, Boneless, appox 3-4 lbs.  4 tb.Salad Oil  3 c.Cornbread, cooked & crumbled  ½ c.Dried Cranberries, reconstituted  ¼ c.Chopped Parsley  2 ea.Whole Eggs  ½ c.Cut Corn, cooked & drained dry  ¼ c.Red Onion, Chopped Fine  2 c.Sweet Corn Relish, see recipe  2 c.Chestnut Crust (see recipe)  4 tb.Dijon Mustard  Salt & Pepper

Chestnut Crust Recipe & Method: 1 c.

1 c. ¾ c. ¼ c.

Toasted Ground Chestnuts Bread Crumbs Whole Butter, Melted Chopped Parsley

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1. In a thick bottomed sauté pan, add 4 tb. salad oil, turn to high heat until oil is smoking.

2. Season Pork Loin with Salt & Pepper. Place in hot sauté pan.

3. Cook Pork Loin on all sides until all sides are brown. Remove from heat.

4. Cut Pork Loin length-wise from end to end, using a butterfly style cut (see demo).

5. In a large bowl, crumble cornbread into a sandy consistency. Add cranberries, parsley, eggs, cut corn, onion, salt, pepper & mix well. Chill in refrigerator, 5-15 minutes.

6. Lay Pork Loin on a clean dry surface. Place chilled stuffing evenly down the middle of Pork Loin (see demo). Truss the Pork Loin by tying it with butcher twine (see demo). Smear tied pork loin with Dijon mustard.

Roll the tied pork loin in chestnut breading, pressing down firmly allowing the crust to stick evenly.

1. Place pork loin on a well oiled sheet pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until center reaches 155 degrees. Let rest 10 minutes. Slice and serve with sweet corn relish, steamed vegetables and garlic whipped potatoes.

HINT: Raw spinach can be used in the center of the pork loin for a more colorful roll.

Ingredients & Method for Red Pepper & Sweet Corn Relish (serves 4-6 ppl) 1 c.Cut Corn, canned or fresh ½ c. Rice Vinegar ½ c. Chopped Cilantro 1 tb.Garlic, Minced 1tsp Sesame Oil 1/8 c. Red Onion, Diced Fine ¼ c.Red Bell Pepper, Diced Fine ¼ c.Pineapple, Diced Fine 2 tb.Soy Sauce 2 tb.Sugar 2 tb.Sweet Thai Chili Sauce

In a small steel bowl, mix all ingredients well. Let it sit for 20 minutes. Serve with pork loin.

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Entertainment foods, Drinks and Desserts Pumpkin spiced Chocolate Liqueur Cheese Cake topped with Maple Whip Cream

Method for Pumpkin Flavor for Cheesecake: 

Method for Crust:

Ingredients for Cheesecake: 2 ½ # Cream cheese (Philadelphia 5 blocks @ 8oz each)  18.6oz White Sugar  6ea. Whole Egg  3ea. Egg Yolk  1tsp.Puree Vanilla extract  10.6oz Heavy Cream  Pumpkin Paste (see recipe)  5ozHershey’s Chocolate Syrup (in a squeeze bottle)

Ingredients for Graham Cracker Crust 2c.Graham Cracker Crumbs (you can make with store bought crackers by using a food processor.)

1.Using a medium bowl mix 2cups Oreo cracker crumbs together with 2cups Gram Cracker crumbs.

2.Melt the butter in a saucepot over low heat.

3.Pour the butter into the crumbs, and mix together well using your hands.

4.Let sit for 1 minute and re-mix together with hands, then set aside.

5.Pack the 10” spring form mold evenly with the crust mix, all bottom corners and walls, as well as the bottomed. Do this as evenly as possible to create a nice sealed crust. Concentrate on the corners as to prevent leakage during the cooking process.

Set aside the mold is ready to fill with the Cheesecake batter.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Flavor:   

1 ¼ c.Libby’s Pumpkin Pulp 1/8 c. Whole Butter 1ea. Zest of Orange (chopped fine)

Add during last 3 minutes to the pumpkin mix and turn heat off: 4tb. Chocolate Liqueur or Kahlua

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

In a thick-bottomed Teflon saucepot cook the above ingredients over medium high heat for 15 minutes, stirring often. (Reduce heat if browning starts in the first 5 minutes).

After all steam has subsided and pumpkin paste is cooked down, add the Liquor and cook for 3 minutes. Cool and set aside.

Method for Cheesecake: Using a large mixing bowl with a paddle, soften the cream cheese.

Approx. 3 minutes at ¾ speed until softened, scrap down sides and mix well for 1 more minute (this will eliminate any chunks or clumps). Set aside at room temperature.  In a separate bowl mix sugar, vanilla, cream, orange zest and cold, cooked pumpkin mix. Stir well until well incorporated using a wire whisk.  In a large food processor place ¼ of the soften cream cheese with ¼ of the (sugar, cream, pumpkin mix and zest mix).  Turn on high speed with the standard blade in place. Add 2 whole eggs (one at a time) continue high speed until well mixed.

Pour into a separate large round bowl.

Repeat process until all whole eggs and yolks are mixed with the cream cheese and liquid cream mixture.

Pouring the mix into the separate bowl each time. Be sure to only add one egg or egg yolk at a time when blending the cream cheese mix or it will separate. (It is very important to 

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Entertainment foods, Drinks and Desserts 

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have completely softened cream cheese before you start the process to prevent clumps from forming).

When you have blended all ingredients together, mix with a spoon as to evenly disperse the ingredients all together as one batter mix.

Pre-heat oven to 275 degrees.

Using a 3” deep by 12” square (or round) ovenproof container create a Bain Maire by filling it ½ way with warm water.

To prevent over browning the crust in the long cooking process you will need to wrap the spring mold with a wellmoistened towel. Do it evenly around the entire mold. Then wrap the wet towel with tin foil to hold it in place. Press down on the foil to firmly set in place.

Pour the cheesecake batter mix into the Cracker packed foil and towel wrapped spring mold.

Place in the water bath and cook at 275-degree pre heated oven.

Fill the water bath up using a cup, as high as possible AFTER you place it in the oven.

Cook at 275 for 15 minutes.

Slide the cheesecake out on the baking rack, and decorate the top using the Hershey’s syrup in the squeeze bottle.

Create a spider web design (SEE demo in class).

Continue to cook at 280 degrees for 2 ½ hours or until stick pulls out clean. The cake should dome on top and have two to three cracks on top if it is cooked properly.

One very important note:

Do not open oven to check or move the cake after you decorated it in the first 15minutes. Let it be, do not touch it. Look through the window to check it if you want to see it. If you do not

Nana Anna’s Golden Sesame Cookies

follow this process, it could result in a flat, under-cooked cheesecake.

Check it after two and one half hours have passed. Do not use a convection oven as this will burn the cake before it is done.

When the cake is finished, remove it from the water bath, but leave the towels and foil wrapped around it. Let cool to room temp before unwrapping the towels and foil.

Place in the refrigerator in the mold for 4 hours before opening the spring mold. This will ensure that the cake has set up.

Unwrap mold and remove.

Cut and serve with maple whipped cream.

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Maple Whip Cream: 1 ¼ c.Heavy Whipping Cream ½ c.Pure Maple Syrup, cooked to one-quarter cup 1/8 c. Sugar 1tsp. Vanilla extract ½ tsp Maple Extract, if available

Method:

On high speed using a wire whip, whip the cream to stiff peaks with all ingredients. Garnish plate with whipped cream and your favorite berries.

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Ingredients         

1 1/2 cups of shortening 1 1/2 cups g. sugar Sesame Seeds 1/4 cup Orange juice 5 ts Baking Powder 1/2 ts Baking Soda 1 TBS flavoring 4 Eggs 4 cups flour

Directions Beat shortening with sugar,Add eggs and beat,Then gradually add juice and dry ingredients,mix well.Roll pieces of dough the size of a walnut.Then take dough and roll into sesame seeds.Then place on an ungreased cookie sheet an inch apart.Bake 8 minutes at 350 degrees.

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Entertainment foods, Drinks and Desserts Albondigas

Baked Ziti cans of kitchen ready tomato's and can of paste.For each can add half of can of water.Wisk all together

Ingredients 2 qt of ricotta cheese 2 cups grated romano and parmesan 1 bunch flat leaf Italian parsley 2 large brown or white eggs 2 pds shredded mozzerella 2 TBSP granulated sugar Salt and Pepper to taste 2 pounds of barilla ziti 2 Cans Pastene kitchen ready tomato's 2 TBSP of chopped garlic 1 Lg white onion 1 Lg can of Pastene tomato paste 1 TBSP dry oregano 1 TBSP dry basil 1 tsp garlic powder 1 TBSP Vegetable Oil

Directions Mix Ricotta,chopped parsley ,2 eggs, 1 1/2 cups of grated cheese,2 cups Mozzerella and salt and pepper to taste in a mixing bowl and set aside in refridgerator.In an 8 qt Sauce pan add vegetable oil let simmer and add the finely diced white onion and the chopped garlic and carmelize them.Then add the two

until the paste is all thinned out.Add basil,oregano,garlic powder,1/2 cup grated cheese ,sugar and salt and pepper to taste.Mix all together and let cook for 2-3 hours.Stirring periodically.

In the mean time boil the 2 pds of pasta in another pan with a little salt and oil until al dente'(strain).Add one cup of tomato sauce to the cheese mixture and mix together. In a large mixing bowl add the pasta and the ricotta mixture together.Get a large throw away pan or a 2in hotel pan and before you add the pasta into the pan put two laddles of tomato sauce on the bottom of the pan and spread around the whole bottom of the pan then add pasta.On top of the pasta add two more laddles of sauce and remaining mozzerella cheese and bake in the oven until cheese is golden brown.When done put stripes of tomato sauce on top and garnish with parsley and serve.

This recipe feeds about 10-15 people enjoy.Great for the holidays!

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Makes about 15

Ingredients 1 lb. lean ground beef 1/3 cup fine dry bread crumbs ½ cup sofrito 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. black pepper 1 large egg, beaten 3 tbsp. hot water ½ bunch of cilantro finely diced 1 quart beef broth 1 tbsp. sofrito (for sauce) 8 oz tomato sauce ¼ cup olives 1 tsp. capers

Directions Mix the first 8 ingredients together and form balls about 1½ inch in diameter. In a medium caldero, brown the abondigas in a bit of oil.

In a medium bowl mix broth, 1 tbsp. sofrito, tomato sauce, olives, and capers, and stir well. Add this to the caldero with albondigas. Let this simmer, covered, for about 25 minutes until done.

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Entertainment foods, Drinks and Desserts Modern Zeppole's and The Nightwatch for the Holidays!

Modern Zeppole's

Nightwatch

Barcardi Rum Balls

Ingredients Ingredients 1 box vanilla wafers, crushed 3 tbsp. cocoa 1½ c. finely chopped walnuts 4½ tbsp. corn syrup 1/3 c. rum 1 c. confectioners sugar (also extra for rolling balls)

Directions Mix together wafer crumbs, cocoa, nuts and confectioners sugar. Add syrup and rum. Mix well and form into balls. Roll balls in confectioners sugar.

Finely chopped coconut may also be added if desired. Makes 50 to 60 balls.

3lbs-ricotta cheese 6-eggs 3/4c-sugar 2tsp-vanilla extarct 3c-Flour 3T-B.Powder

Directions Wisk eggs well then mix with vanilla and sugar and mix well again.

Now add all ingredients together and lightly mix or fold together until well blended but do not mix hard or the integrity of the ricotta will be lost.

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Sometimes a little more is needed to make it through. The KEEL Vodka keeps things low calorie while the espresso provides the boost needed to help you keep a sharp lookout as you navigate the night…

Ingredients  1.5oz of KEEL Vodka  0.5oz of Kahlua  1 shot of espresso a splash of fresh lemon juice

Directions 1. add ingredients to a rocks glass filled with ice and stir.

2. garnish with a twist of lemon, and away we go!

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The

NOGS

Ambassador's Punch recipe 1 qt chilled eggnog 5 oz brandy 4 oz dark rum 3 oz dark creme de cacao 1 whole nutmeg Whisk together the eggnog, brandy, rum and creme de cacao together in a large punch bowl. Add a large block of ice. Grate a little nutmeg over the top of each drink when serving.

Makes 8 (6-ounce) punch cups.

Read more: Eggnog recipes: 20+ appetizing drink recipes. http:// www.drinksmixer.com/ cat/23/#ixzz3KDKvbGWE

Bourdon Egg Nog Recipe 12 eggs 3 pints heavy cream 1 cup granulated sugar nutmeg 1 cup bourbon whiskey 1 cup cognac 1/2 tsp salt

6 seperated eggs 1 oz rum 1 cup sugar 1 pint heavy cream 1 pint milk 1 pint bourbon whiskey

Beat yolks until light in color.

Slowly add bourbon, cognac, while beating at slow speed. Chill 3 hrs.

Add salt to whites, beat to peaks.

Whip s cream until stiff. Fold whipped cream into yolk mixture, then fold in the beaten egg whites.

Chill one hour. Serve with nutmeg sprinkled on top. For thinner mixture add 1 or 2 cups of milk. Serve in a punch bowl or another big bowl.

Read more: Eggnog recipes: 20+ appetizing drink recipes. http:// www.drinksmixer.com/cat/23/ #ixzz3KDspFUst

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Bourdon & Rum Egg Nog Recipe

Separate 6 eggs. Beat yolks well. Beat in 1/2 cup sugar.

Clean/degrease beaters and bowl. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Beat in 1/2 cup sugar. Fold in yolks to whites.

Gently stir in 1 pt heavy cream, 1 pt milk, 1 pt bourbon, and 1 oz rum. Serve as is or well chilled. Double recipe to fill a punch bowl.

Read more: Eggnog recipes: 20+ appetizing drink recipes. http:// www.drinksmixer.com/cat/23/ #ixzz3KDu0Mkgf

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Baltimore Eggnog recipe 1 oz Jamaican dark rum 1 oz brandy 1 oz madeira 1 whole egg 1 tsp powdered sugar 3/4 cup milk Shake all ingredients well with cracked ice and strain into a collins glass. Sprinkle nutmeg on top and serve. Read more: Eggnog recipes: 20+ appetizing drink recipes. http://www.drinksmixer.com/cat/23/ #ixzz3KDpooFjP

Apricot Brandy Egg Nog Recipe 6 large eggs freshly ground nutmeg cup powdered sugar 750 ml dark rum 4 cups whipping cream 1/2 cup apricot brandy 1

Separate eggs and refrigerate the whites. Beat ylks until light in color.

Gradually beat in sugar, then slowly beat in 1 cup of rum. Let stand covered for atleast 1 hr. Add rest of liquor, cream, and peack brandy, beating constantly. Refrigerate, covered, for 3 hours. Beat egg whites until stiff, fold in. Serve sprinkled with nutmeg.

Serve in a punch bowl or another medium sized bowl.

Read more: Eggnog recipes: 20+ appetizing drink recipes. http:// www.drinksmixer.com/ cat/23/ #ixzz3KDw1JGJy

Bourdon & Light Rum Cooked EggEgg Nog Recipe nog with 6 egg yolks Hazelnut 1 tsp vanilla ground nutmeg Liqueur 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 tsp salt 2 cups milk 1 cup whipping cream 1/2 cup light rum 6 egg whites 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey 1/4 cup sugar

In a small mixer bowl beat egg yolks till blended. Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar, beating at high speed till thick and lemon colored.

Stir in milk, stir in rum, bourbon, vanilla, and salt. Chill thoroughly.

Whip cream. Wash beaters well. In a large mixer bowl beat egg whites till soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining 1/4 cup sugar, beating to stiff peaks. Fold yolk mixture and whipped cream into egg whites. Serve immediately. Sprinkle nutmeg over each serving.

Serve in a punch bowl or another big bowl. NOTE: For a nonalcoholic eggnog, prepare Eggnog as above, except omit the bourbon and rum and increase the milk to 3 cups.

Read more: Eggnog recipes: 20+ appetizing drink recipes. http:// www.drinksmixer.com/ cat/23/#ixzz3KDwo9zhr

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1cup granulated sugar 1/2 tsp vanilla 1 tbsp sugar 1/2 cup water 1/8 tsp nutmeg 1/2 tsp lemon juice 1/8 tsp salt 6 eggs 3/4 cup heavy cream 4 cups milk 2 tbsp hazelnut liqueur Here's an egg nog recipe using cooked eggs, so no one has to be paranoid about salmonella. Mix granulated sugar, 2 Tbl. of water, and lemon juice in a med. sized sauce pan. Let boil, cook 5 min, until it turns dark amber. Remove from heat, and slowly stir in remaining 1/4 c. of water.

Beat eggs and milk together in a bowl. Stir into sugar mixture, cook over med.-low heat for about 10 to 12 minutes. (It should thicken enough to stick to spoon) Poor into a clean bowl (punch bowl or something), stir in vanilla, nutmeg and salt. Refigerate, covered, until cold. Before serving, beat together cream, liquer, adn 10x sugar, until soft peaks form. Pour chilled eggnog into a serving bowl, fold in whipped cream with a whisk.

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All I want for Christma Whimsical, Wonderful

Chocolate!

Tales of a Modern Day Chocolatier

Laila S. Nabulsi Owner of Masala

Chocolates

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as is

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A brief history...

Etymologists trace the origins of the word "chocolate" to the Aztec word "Xocoatl", which refers to the drink brewed from the cacao bean. For about 90% of chocolate's history, it was primarily used as a beverage. As far back as 1400 B.C.E., cacao residue was discovered on pottery excavated in Honduras. It was revealed that the sweet pulp of the cacao fruit, the part that surrounds the bean, was fermented into an alcoholic beverage.

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Both the Mayans and Aztecs held the belief that the ca cao bean had magical, even divine properties, fit for us in most sacred rituals including birth, marriage and death.

Sweetened chocolate didn't appear on the scene until Europeans discovered the Ameri cas and were served native cuisine. Legend has it that the Aztec King Montezuma welcomed the Spanish explorer Hernando Corte with a special banquet that included drinking chocolate. He was tragically mistaken as a rein carnated deity instead of a conquering invader. Corte and his conquistadors introduced the cacao beans to Spain. Most foreign taste buds were not suited for Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

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drinking the traditional bitter chocolate brew, but once it was mixed with honey or sugar it became very popular.

By the 17th century, chocolate became a fashionable drink throughout Europe. In 1828, a Dutch chemist, Coenraad Johannes van Houten, discovered a way to make powdered chocolate by removing half of the natural cacao butter from the chocolate liquor, then pulverizing what remained and treating it with alkaline salts to reduce bitterness. Hence the name "Dutch cocoa" was born.

This soon led to the creation of solid chocolate.

You can thank Joseph Fry for all the chocolate candies that you have indulged in over the years. In 1847, he discovered how to make a moldable chocolate paste by adding melted cacao butter back into Dutch cocoa.

Shortly after that, a little company called Cadbury began marketing boxes of chocolate candies in England. Milk chocolate hit the scene a few years later, pioneered by David Peter, a Swiss candle maker, with the help of his neighbor, a baby-food manufacturer named Henri Nestle.

Chocolate was valued so highly during the Revolutionary War that it was included in soldiers' rations and used in lieu of wages.

While the days of chocolate paychecks have long gone, statistics show that the little cacao bean is still a powerful economic force. In the United States alone, chocolate manufacturing is a 4billion-dollar industry.

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consumes at least a half a pound of chocolate per month.

Why is chocolate the Precious?

Scientists and researchers are discovering the amazing health benefits of chocolate, primarily dark chocolate with a 70-80% cocoa content. A recent study of over 31,000 women was done to track the positive effects that chocolate has on health. It was revealed that women who ate one to two servings of dark chocolate weekly were one-third less likely to be at risk for heart failure.

In Germany, another study showed that one square of dark chocolate daily lowered blood pressure and caused a 39 percent reduction in the risk of having a heart attack and stroke, as opposed to those who did not consume dark chocolate regularly. Chocolate stimulates the arterial lining, which causes the body to produce Nitric Oxide (NO), a gas. One function of NO is to send signals to the arteries to relax, which improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure.

Chocolate contains compounds called flavanoids, which increase the elasticity in veins and arteries.

A study published in Nature Neuroscience (October 26, 2014) found that flavanols in cocoa helps retain memory in humans.

Besides flavanols, dark chocolate is loaded with 300+ organic compounds that are biologically active, meaning they interact or have an effect on cell tissue in the human body. These compounds include anti-oxidants such as polyphenols and catechins, amino acids, fatty acids in the form of saturated and monosaturated fat and theobromine.

The Latin name for the cacao tree is Theobroma cacao. It is derived from the Greek words for God (Theo) and food (brosi), translated to mean "food of the gods". Theobromine is an alkaloid found in the cocoa fat and gives chocolate its bitter taste. It does not contain bromine at all. It is the most potent, naturally occurring, chemical compound in chocolate. It acts as a relaxant and a stimulant, but is 10 times weaker than caffeine.

Despite popular belief, chocolate does not contain caffeine, rather it is the theobromine,

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which has a structure very similar to caffeine that gives chocolate it's stimulating properties. It also is a diuretic and has an impact on the central nervous system. Studies indicate that theobromine acts on the vagus nerve, which runs from the lungs to the brain. Theobromine crosses the blood-brain barrier and can elevate moods and lift depression.

In a fun, fact finding study done by Dr. David Lewis, formerly of the University of Sussex, Dr Lewis states that: "There is no doubt that chocolate beats kissing hands down when it comes to providing a long-lasting body and brain buzz. A buzz that, in many cases, lasted four times as long as the most passionate kiss." Wow! Let's see...chocolate or kissing or both. Hmmm...well you decide what works best for you.

Ironically, the theobromine in chocolate is deadly to animals, especially dogs and cats. So keep your beloved pets away from your stash of chocolate!

Dark chocolate is nutritious. A 100gram bar (3.5 oz) of dark chocolate containing 70-80% cocoa fat contains: 11 grams of fiber 67% of the RDA for Iron 58% of the RDA for Magnesium 89% of the RDA for Copper 98% of the RDA for Manganese.

In addition is contains potassiumphosphorus, zinc and selenium.

Keep in mind a 100-gram bar also contains about 600 calories along with moderate amounts of sugar. So eat in moderation!

Not all chocolates are created equal!

There is a difference between real chocolate and chocolate compounds mainly the source of fat. Real chocolate is derived from the cocoa plant. Chocolate manufacturers are mandated by law to follow a specific recipe or standard in the processing of chocolate.

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chocolate must all contain cocoa butter. The cocoa butter gives fine chocolate its sensory qualities, remember it's the fat that contains the theobromine. In addition, cocoa butter gives chocolate a glossy appearance and snap when you bite into it. This type of chocolate needs to be tempered so that the finished product is stable and doesn't "bloom" or turn white when subjected to different temperatures. Typically fine chocolate will begin to melt at temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Some people may not be able to tell the difference between real chocolate or chocolate compounds. However, to discriminate taste buds, real chocolate is less sweet, decadent and more satisfying, therefore you don't need to eat as much.

Chocolate Economics

Chocolate compounds or coatings, also known as confectionary coating, are a mixture of sugar, vegetable fat, cocoa powder, lecithin and flavor. Although manufactured similarly to real chocolate, the main difference is the use of vegetable fat vs. cocoa butter. Compounds do not need to be tempered and are more versatile to different temperatures and applications. Common uses are chocolate chips, candies and coatings on ice cream bars. Since there are not as many guidelines regarding ingredients, chocolate Page 103 may E The Magazine for Today’s Executive compounds contain added flavors Female or colors.

Some experts have warned for a few years now of an up and coming chocolate crisis, due to supply vs. demand ratios and poor cacao bean production from fungal disease.

Chocolate is a huge trade commodity. In America alone, the average consumer takes in approximately 25 pounds of candy per year (including chocolate).

Interestingly enough, adults consume more chocolate than children.

According to the World Cocoa Foundation, more than 50 million people worldwide depend on chocolate for their livelihood. Unfortunately, cacao cultivation has also caused slavery and exploitation throughout South America and Africa. Human rights organizations claim that up to 90% of cacao cultivation in West Africa is done by slave labor. Two-thirds of cocoa production today comes from West Africa, with Cote d'Ivoire producing 43% of the beans.

When purchasing sumers can look for shows the Fair Trade certifies and guarantees were produced without a fair sale price was given

chocolate, conlabeling that symbol. This the beans slave labor and to the farmers.

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Who's writing this article anyway?

My name is Laila S. Nabulsi. I started my journey into the world of chocolate in February of 2006. I never had a hobby or interest in it, but while driving one day, the idea for Masala Chocolates® was born.

Sometimes when a flash of inspiration hits us, I believe it is important to look at it and take it seriously. So, I did just that. I had no idea where to start, how to make it, etc., but I did my homework and taught myself how to temper chocolate, make ganaches and other fillings. Drawing from my travels to India and abroad, I started by infusing exotic spices into the chocolates and creating my own recipes. The chocolates are made with mostly organic ingredients, using Fair Trade chocolate.

I hired a friend to do some marketing and I was off to a good start. My first Christmas season, I was featured in Daily Candy's weekend edition.

Overnight, I had hundreds of orders and it was two weeks before Christmas. I was armed with a few chocolate molds, a pot and a burner. Keep in mind from start to finish, a handmade piece of chocolate takes about 3-4 hours to make. After getting over my initial panic, I went to work, often pulling 48 hours of continuous work to get everything done. I had a dear friend helping me wash dishes and keep me organized. Simultaneously, I was still doing my other job as an acupuncturist and alternative health care practitioner, which I have been doing since 1988.

By some miracle, the work was done. I survived and learned many great lessons during that time.

Since then, I continue to perfect my skills, create new products, designs and flavors. It is highly satisfying for me to make people happy when they enjoy the finished product. Currently, Masala Chocolates® is an online retailer and can be found at select locations around Orange County and Los Angeles.

www.masalachocolates.com

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Salted Caramel Truffles Fleur de Sel caramels and confections have become a popular treat lately. Begin making these delicious truffles a day ahead of time so the flavors intensify.

Ingredients 20 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped, divided 1/3 cup sugar 2 tablespoons water 2/3 cup whipping cream 1/4 teaspoon fleur de sel 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Additional fleur de sel Preparation Place 8 ounces chocolate in metal bowl over saucepan of barely simmering water (do not allow bottom of bowl to touch water); stir until chocolate is smooth. Remove chocolate from over water.

Combine sugar and 2 tablespoons water in small saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves, occasionally brushing sides of pan with wet pastry brush. Increase heat; boil until syrup is deep amber color, brushing down sides and swirling pan occasionally, about 4 minutes. Add cream (mixture will bubble).

Stir over very low heat until caramel is smooth. Mix caramel and 1/4 teaspoon fleur de sel into melted chocolate. Chill until truffle filling is firm, at least 3 hours.

Place cocoa powder in bowl. Using 1 tablespoon truffle filling for each truffle, roll into balls, then roll in cocoa. Arrange on baking sheet. Cover; chill overnight.

Line 13x9x2-inch baking sheet with foil. Place remaining 12 ounces chocolate in medium metal bowl over saucepan of barely simmering water (do not allow bottom of bowl to touch water); stir until chocolate is melted and smooth and thermometer inserted into chocolate registers 115°F. Remove bowl from over water. Working quickly, submerge 1 truffle in melted chocolate. Using fork, lift out truffle and tap fork against side of bowl to allow excess coating to drip off. Transfer truffle to prepared sheet. Repeat with remaining truffles. Sprinkle truffles lightly with additional fleur de sel. Let stand until coating sets, at least 1 hour. Chill until ready to eat.

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Morovino Winery On Avila Beach

ABOUT MOROVINO Morovino was started in 1994 by Italian -born winemaker Guerinno “Gerry” Moro. In 2007, Andrea and David

Bradford, lifelong wine lovers, took over the day-to-day operation of Morovino and continue making award-winning wines blending the best of Italian winemaking tradition with just a touch of California fruit.

Winemaker Andrea Bradford, a true foodie, believes that the best wines should be food friendly and approachable.

She brings 40 years of experience and experimentation in the kitchen to her winemaking. Her wines are dense, smooth and well-balanced with a bright acidity that makes them ideal to pair with a variety of dishes.

Morovino celebrates the everyday appreciation of fine wines. At the Morovino tasting room, Andrea and David delight in sharing their knowledge of food, wine and winemaking. Morovino embraces the Italian winemaking philosophy of: Wine!

Food! Fun! Family!

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HOURS: Open Daily 12 - 6 Open Friday, 12 - 7 (Last tasting – 15 minutes prior to closing) The Morovino tasting room is located in Avila Beach, just a block from the ocean, At the tasting room, it is the goal of Morovino’s hosts to offer an interesting, educational, entertaining experience to all their guests. Choose from a seat at the bar, or relax with friends in the comfortable “wine lounge”. After your visit, stroll the Avila Beach promenade with its charming shops, excellent restaurants and beautiful beach.As an Artisan winery, Morovino carefully crafts a limited number of cases of quality wines that are distributed through the tasting room and the Club Vino wine club.

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Morovino Winery On Avila Beach

These are wines that you cannot find at

Grapes are primarily sourced from Santa Barbara County and include fruit from some of the area’s most prestigious and established vineyards.

the local grocery store!

Total Cases Produced 2,000 Cases Annually

Core Varieties

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    

Pinot Grigio Riesling Dolcetto Barbera Sangiovese Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

By The Beach Avila has two main streets that run parallel

Front Street, which runs right along the beach, and 1st Street, which is one block back from the cean. to each other:

Landing Passage is a new paseo that connects 1st Street to Front Street. Basically, it connects the

public parking lot to the pier. Landing Passage is halfway between and San Francisco Street San Miguel Street on the 1st Street side. Avila Beach Drive runs mostly East-West (remember, Avila is a south-facing beach).

From Avila Beach Drive, take 1st St./San Juan (not San Miguel) which will put you on 1st Street. Then, we are just opposite the public parking lot pay station, behind Taco Shack.

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The Playground Dynamic Getting Rid of Bullying and other Toxic Behavior while building a new era of Social Skills and power thinkers starting on the Playground.

Help! kids build self esteem in the playground Dynamic for only $1.50 Digital Version on sale Now! www.thegatebookcompany.com/tpd-buy-now.html Also Available in Hard Copy on:

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www.ecosafariafrica.com

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The Basics of

BUBBLY! By

Laurie Forster The Wine Coach

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“My only regret in life is that I did not drink more Champagne” ~ John Maynard Keynes These are said to have been the last words of John Maynard Keynes, English economist and father of macroeconomics. For a wine to have so profoundly touched the heart of this famous number cruncher there must be something magical about this beverage. Indeed, we do think of Champagne as a wine of celebration and very special occasions. Although there is no shortage of great sparkling wines from all over the world, most of us acknowledge that there are some occasions like the holidays, weddings or anniversaries where only the “real” thing will do. If you are looking to select a special bottle for this New Year’s Eve or to find that especially great Champagne you will love drinking in 2015 . . . keep reading!

What is Champagne?

Only wines grown in Champagne, the northern most wine region of France, which adhere to the strict winemaking regulations are allowed to use the designation “Champagne.” This region has a very special soil with high levels of chalk and limestone. Along with a cool climate, the soil is said to create the necessary conditions to grow grapes with the right fruit and acid balance to create the magic of Champagne.

There are three grapes used to make Champagne: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier (pronounced Pee-Noh Moon-yay)—the latter two are red grapes, whereas the former is a white grape.

Most Champagne is made by blending still wines made from these three grapes to take advantage of each grape’s varietal character.

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It is said that Chardonnay adds elegance; Pinot Noir power; and Pinot Meunier fruitiness.

Champagne Houses create a blend that expresses their distinctive style or often referred to as a “house style.” One special blend bears the term Blanc de Blancs (translated “white from whites”), which is made entirely from the Chardonnay grape and tends to be more elegant and less fruity. In contrast, another special blend bears the term Blanc de Noirs (translated “white from blacks”), which uses the Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier and has more fruitiness and power.

How is Champagne made?

Let’s review the basic process of creating Champagne, which has become the gold standard in sparkling wine production. Grapes are harvested by hand when ripe and a still wine is created from each grape variety. The red grape skins are removed during fermentation, which prevents color or tannin being imparted to the wine (to give red wine its red color, the skins are left in contact with the wine during fermentation). An exception to this rule would be the production of Rosé Champagne, which is created from minimal skin contact or the addition of red wine for flavor and color. The wine maker will then create their blend of the Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier wines and possibly other vintages as well—this process is called assemblage in France. Blending of vintages is used to ensure that the house style remains consistent from year to year. The winemaker wants its Champagne to be the same fabulous tasting experience every time. It is said that a monk, Dom Pérignon, was the first to perfect the art of blending in the Champagne region.

grapes from that specific year’s harvest. Vintage Champagne is meant Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

In excellent years the winemaker will produce vintage Champagne bearing the vintage on the label and containing onlyrather than a house style. Since it is only made in certain years, Vintage Champagnes tend to be more expensive.

Next, the blend is added to a bottle with what is called the liqueur de triage, which is liquid yeast with sugar. Topped with a crown bottle cap, like those used for beer, this bottle is rested on its side for the secondary fermentation. The yeast and sugar in the liqueur de triage set off fermentation with by-products of alcohol and carbon dioxide.

The carbon dioxide is trapped by the bottle cap to create the legendary tiny bubbles of fine Champagne. As the yeast cells transform the sugar to alcohol, they settle to the bottom of the bottle and are usually left there for at least 12 months and sometimes up to three years to add richness and flavor to the wine. This aging process explains why some Champagnes smell toasty or like a fresh baked loaf of bread, and it also allows the bubbles to become better integrated with the wine.

After aging, the winemaker uses either a manual or automated method to remove the yeast sediment. Then, a blend of wine and sugar called dosage is added to the wine before corking. The amount of sugar that is contained in the dosage Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

will determine the Champagne’s sweetness style.

The wines with the least sugar are considered Extra Brut (or bone dry) with styles of increasing in sweetness—Brut, Extra Dry, Sec, Demi-sec and Doux (sweetest).

Try These Champagnes for a very Happy New Year!

Nicolas Feuillatte Brut NV Once a legend on the New York party scene, Nicolas Feuillatte inherited a vineyard in Champagne in 1978 and began creating high end sparklers for friends like Jackie Onassis and Lauren Bacall. Word spread quickly and this is now known as one of the best values in Non Vintage (NV) Champagne. An emphasis on red grapes in the blend creates this light bodied Champagne with flavors of apple and pear. You don’t have to have the pedigree of Jackie O to know that this is one delicious sparkler.

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Ployez-Jacquemart Brut NV Their passion for Champagne and each other inspired Marcel Ployez and Yvonne Jacquemart to establish the Ployez-Jacquemart house in 1930. Three generations have continued this labor of love crafting wines from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards that taste like they cost twice as much. 60% of the blend is Pinot Noir and Meunier making this a very aromatic, rich sparkler. If you prefer small family run restaurants over big chains you get what is so special about this wine. Invite over that special someone and share this sparkler for New Year’s and it’s guaranteed to ignite some sparks!

(Retails for approximately $39.99)

Just like each of us take time to evolve so does our full appreciation of the famed bubbly we know as Champagne. Consider each glass a way to better understand and love this legendary wine. Who wants to look back one day and regret missing out on one of life’s greatest treats?

More Information on Champagne How The Best Champagne is Made.

Pierre Peters Cuvee Speciale 2007 If only the best will do, then this Blanc de Blancs vintage Champagne made from 100% Grand Cru Chardonnay grapes from 2007 is for you. Pierre Peters is one of a new breed of artisanal producers making what is sometimes referred to as “grower-Champagne.” One whiff of this wine and you know there is love in the glass with aromas of ripe lemon, spice and caramel.

Its powerful grip and unique flavor profile will make this year’s toast like none other.

(Retails for approximately $114.99) Hopefully understanding what makes the wines of Champagne so special has inspired you to enjoy a glass or two! To make the celebration complete consider pairing it with oysters, lobster or buttered popcorn with truffle oil.

How To Sabre Your Champagne

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Laurie Forster

The Sipping Point

The Wine Coach is one of the country’s leading wine experts whose mission is to demystify wine one glass at a time.

The queen of wine edutainment, she is also the author of the award-winning book, The Sipping Point and a regular guest on TV and radio shows across the country. Laurie’s specialty is delivering unique corporate keynotes, teambuilding events and group tasting seminars for corporate leaders such as MetLife, LG, Microsoft and the US Chamber of Commerce.

Laurie’s radio show The Sipping Point can be heard every week on WBAL or in her free App The Wine Coach which was rated one of the Top 8 Wine Apps by Wine Enthusiast magazine. She partners with her better half Chef Michael Forster to create The Wine Coach Club.

With over 125 pages of wine essentials along with stunning photos, The Sipping Point is the perfect book for you or any wine lover on your list!

wwwTheSippingPoint.com

For FREE secrets to make wine easy and FUN!:

http://thewinecoach.com/videoseries/ sommeliersecrets.html Join The Wine Coach® Wine Club:

http://thewinecoach.com/wine-club/

HIRE

Laurie for your next corporate, client or fundraising event! More Info:

WATCH Laurie!

Teach us how to 'Drink like Olivia Pope' from ABC's Scandal!

Click Video below or click link www.TheWineCoach.com/Scandal

http://thewinecoach.com/speakingcorporate/

Laurie was Just on Fox News WATCH http://tinyurl.com/k6suu6z

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Support the Arts

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E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 117

Break FREE During The Holidays By Eliminating Disempowering Family Holiday Traditions

By Nancy Mueller

Do the holidays bring you tidings of good cheer or bring back a lifetime of dreaded holiday fear?

Whether they realize it or not, families have their own language and this is never more apparent than dur-

Have you ever been a guest at the dinner table in someone’s home and when talk turns to reminiscing you feel completely left out of the conversation because you have no idea what they are talking about? ing the holidays.

During the holidays, a family’s language can also be described as traditions. Every family has their traditions that have been carried through the years.

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Traditions of family ski trips, grandpa carving the turkey, football games, special ornaments on the tree and other traditions that are so automatic, they become part of that family’s language (also known as traditions or beliefs) often become habits we rarely think very much about.

Some traditions can be fun and enjoyable but what about those family traditions that can be disempowering?

Do any of the following scenarios sound familiar to you?

You did it! All your hard work and determination has paid off and now you are enjoying your success. Your life is full and your peers value your input and your accomplishments. Why then, can the holidays bring a sense of dread?

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1. Because you know that no matter how much you have studied, learned, accomplished or excelled in your chosen field, your family still views you as that 10 year old girl with pigtails and will never take you seriously.

2. Your grandmother keeps asking you when you are going to find a nice man and settle down 3. No matter what your accomplishments, when you are around family members, you are reduced to that 5 year old girl who is looking for validation from her family 4. Your mother wants to know when you are going to give her some grandchildren 5. Your father wants to know when you are going to get a “real job” with benefits and a 401K 6. Your daughter wants to know when you are going to start acting like the other moms your age Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

7. Your children see you as “mom” and don’t see you as the successful business woman you have become 8. Your family can’t understand why you would rather go to Hawaii instead of keeping the family tradition of “the family get-together” 9. You can’t take one more family gathering watching everyone stuff themselves with food and watching football all day 10. Forced “gift giving” does not put you in the holiday spirit These feelings and others like them can be disempowering during the holidays and leave a person with feelings of dread instead of holiday cheer. If your family language (traditions) are considered “normal” perhaps it is time to create a new normal in your holiday traditions.

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Easier said than done, right?

Not necessarily!

What do you really want but are afraid to ask for? Beliefs, habits, traditions are created from something we do over and over, throughout our life, without even thinking about it.

We make choices based on the choices our parents and grandparents made and when we decide it is time to make different choices, it is difficult for parents and grandparents to accept our “out of the box” thinking when we suggest new choices or a new tradition.

What happens when life forces us to make a change?

Death, divorce, job transfers, etc. force families to make changes during the holidays but what about those people who simply want to create a new family language, belief or tradition? How do you break out of past habits that empower you without disempowering others?

Every day, we teach people how to treat us based on everything we choose to accept or not accept. Here is an example: if you meet someone for the first time and introduce yourself and they pronounce your name wrong, you have the power to teach them how you want to be treated.

You can either continue to let them keep pronouncing

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your name incorrectly, or you can continue to correct them until they get your name right.If you want to create a new holiday tradition that you feel would work better for you and your family, you can teach others that you would prefer to make a change and encourage them to honor your request, OR, you can let someone talk you out of what you really want to do.

Don’t wait until death, divorce or any other of life’s twists and turns force you into making a change.

What are the possibilities that life is handing you that you may not be taking advantage of? Life changes every day and offers us new opportunities to live life to the fullest. Imagine the mother whose six year old son asks to help make the pumpkin pies.

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Actually, what mom really wants is for you to be happy. Encourage her to understand what would really make you happy. Things don’t have to be done on a specific day or in a specific way.

Think outside of the box and start creating new traditions (beliefs) that work best for you and your family. Friends and family may resist at first but ultimately what they really want is to see you happy. There is always a way to honor everyone involved even if it means doing what makes you the happiest. When you are happy, people in your life want to be around you because you are living at a high vibration of energy that others want to be a part of. When you honor yourself, you are teaching others how you want to be treated.

Mom has made her pies a specific way every time she makes them and adding six year old hands into the process changes everything.

However, this is an opportunity for mother and son to create new traditions because she gives herself permission to think outside of the box (the way it was always done in the past based on her beliefs and traditions).Life is all about choices, and we can choose to be empowered or allow others to disempower us.

Fear holds so many people back during the holidays. Fear of hurting another person’s feelings (mom is expecting us to do it this way or be there on this day).

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Whenever there is more than one person involved in making a decision, there will be multiple ideas about how to complete the task at hand. Share your desires with others and encourage those people who matter most to you to give you their input. Many minds offer different ideas and different ideas enable us to create new beliefs and traditions.

Simply remember this: the definition of insanity is doing something the same way, over and over, and expecting different results. When you are ready to stop the insanity, it is time to create a new “normal” that works best for you. After all, you only have one life to live, how do you REALLY want to live it?

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Support the American Heart Association www.heart.org

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E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 123

Entertainment Starts with

You! Designs

by Diann Valentine

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The Cuff was conceived and created to replace the bulky and often cumbersome bridal bouquet that repeatedly impedes the view of a bride's gown. Designed as an accent of flowers adorned with crystal beading, exotic floral, and elaborate details, the Bridal Cuff is worn as a hands free accessory that adds a modern twist to the longstanding tradition of a bridal bouquet.

The successful entry into the US market has created celebrity demand and has been worn by The Real Housewives of Orange County reality star Tamara Judge, as well as Basketball Wives reality stars Jennifer Williams and Evelyn Lozada.

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“I created the bridal cuff to honor the wedding gown," shares Valentine. "Many brides spend thousands of dollars on their wedding gown and then hide the most beautiful and intricate details that are often found on the bodice of their dream gown," she says. "This hands-free floral accessory is an evolution of the bridal bouquet and the perfect accessory for every bride.” To view the entire collection visit:

shop.diannvalentine.com .

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Who is Diann Valentine From humble beginnings to soaring above and beyond achieving her wildest dreams and interior designer Diann Valentine continues to turn fantasy into reality as this vi ples around the world the wedding of their dreams. The incredibly sought-after and a hind the jaw dropping weddings of Usher, Martin Lawrence, Toni Braxton, Tamra and Eddie Judge, Lela Rochon, and Boyz II Men crooner Shawn Stockma nuptials of Reality Star Evelyn Lozada and Chad Johnson just to name a few. Vale emphasizes personal responsibility while differentiating your brand for business succ Valentine Style: Rich Inspiration For Every Woman’s Dream Day. Valentine is a Rea recent stint as the Host, Designer and Executive Producer of WEtv’s I Do Over. Vale enjoying the launch of Diann Valentine Home and her incredibly popular signature “V world, Valentine is a genius. In wedding design, Valentine is one of the most sought business. As an author, Valentine is mixing traditions and modern trends to be truly u

As a keynote speaker, Valentine is inspirational. As a TV host, Valentine is a dream f designer, Valentine is innovative. And as a proud African American woman, Valentine With many titles above her head, Valentine is just getting started. Diann Valentine liv Los Angeles with her husband Damon Haley. For more information, please visit www.diannvalentine.com or you can keep up with her on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest and You Tube @diannvalentine.

Current Retail Partners of Diann Valentine Designs La Maison de la Bridal. Atlanta, Georgia 404.906.1428 Panache Bridal, Beverly Hills, California 310.860.9221 The Left Bank & Bridal Finery, Chicago, Illinois 773.929.7422 Bridal Reflections, New York, New York 212.764.3040

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s, internationally acclaimed wedding, event ivacious innovative mastermind gives couadmired Valentine is the creative genius be-

an along with the controversial short-lived entine is a popular motivational speaker that cess. Valentine is the author of Weddings ality TV Personality with her most entine is a lifestyle designer Valentine Cuff�. In the event after experts in the unique.

fulfiller. As product e is a pioneer. ves in

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E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 131

Yoga Pant.Who Knew?

Bruce Wiseman

That’s right. James Cameron directed all of them (and many others).

Avatar was one of the few films I enjoyed in 3D.

I’m a movie junkie. I marvel at the creativity of Cameron, whose story telling and creative brilliance stretch the bounds of imagination beyond the known universe.

With more than $2 billion in box office gross worldwide, many looked to the film to help spur the adoption of 3D TV. Hell of an idea, 3D right in your own home.

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Manufacturers will make millions.

Many millions.

Except for one little thing: there was such a rush to market, the manufacturers – certain that prospects would buy and anxious to drive a new product line,- blew off doing their market research.

Had they conducted surveys of their prospective customers they would have discovered that the public doesn’t like wearing 3D glasses, and that 3D TV generates complaints of headaches and eyestrain.

“3D television was heralded as the breakthrough technology of the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show.

Hot on the heels of James Cameron’s eye-opening Avatar, 3D HDTVs were everywhere on the show floor….

In 2010, consumers purchased a paltry 1.1 million 3D TV units, and although sales have grown in the two years since, the widespread 3D fervor that TV manufacturers were anticipating never took root. http://www.wired.com/2012/01/state-of-3-dtechnology/ Take Vizio - a major television set manufacturer.

They poured millions into the development and promotion of their 3D television line. But they did so without bothering to do their market research.

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Ouch!

Depending on whose statistics you take, approximately 95% of new product introductions fail. There are a number of reasons for new product failures, but omitted market research can be a killer.

We conducted surveys for a well-known fashion brand a few years ago. Management was prepared to spend $500,000 on the production of an infomercial and probably a like amount to buy the airtime to show it. They wisely decided to survey their targeted public (plus-sized women) about the presentation of the new line before spending the production money.

The respondents didn’t like it, not at all.

On the one hand, management wasn’t happy that their proposed offering was rejected. On the other hand, they were extremely grateful for the information. It saved them hundreds of thousands of dollars – and, gave them feedback from their prospects that enabled them to redesign the line.

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Prospects are one public that should be surveyed, but most companies don’t realize that they have a gold mine in their customer database.

Take Dear Kate.

This is a women’s lingerie company. But these are not your grandma’s undies. No, no. They use a supersilky, patent pending material developed by the company’s founder, Julie Sygiel, who utilized her chemical engineering degree to come up with an idea for the “performance underwear” for what Sygiel calls “high-performing women.”

With the company just two years old, Sygiel wanted to expand her offerings and turned to her customers to find out what else they wanted.

Smart lady.

You think she’s onto something?

"We surveyed our customers and said, 'Hey what do you want to see from us next,'" Sygiel, who studied chemical engineering at Brown University, told the Huffington Post in an interview.

"Yoga wear was by far the winner." http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/10/30/dearkate-yoga-pants_n_6076540.html

How about you, Vizio or Dear Kate?

Armed with the strong survey results, Julie needed a bit of capital to create and launch the new product. Solution? She launched a Kickstarter campaign with the goal of raising $15,000. They raised the $15K in the first hour!

At the end of 30 days, they had raised $158,993 from 1327 backers.

Dear Kate will start shipping the cutting edge yoga pants in about a week. Sygiel says 2014’s income will be triple 2013.

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I know, the question is rhetorical. But the fact that your customer database is a potential gold mine isn’t.

With 27 years as a professional prospector for these mental gems, I can tell you there are untold riches buried in there.

If you want to find some, we can conduct a survey of your customers rapidly and inexpensively. We can identify new products or services that your customers might want from you, as well as the key “hot buttons” that motivated them to buy from you in the first place.

These “hot buttons” are nuggets from the mine that can and should be used in your marketing to attract new customers.

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Let me know if we can be of service.

“The business we received from these surveyed menus was phenomenal. Our takeout business increased by 150% in just a few days. It leveled of in a range about double what it had been before the survey was done.” PB Manager Best, Bruce President & CEO On Target Research www.ontargetresearch.com 818-397-1401

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www.khanacademy.org

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www.khanacademy.org

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Beat Holiday Blues, Stress and Headaches with Essential Oils B.J. Miller - Premier Wellness Advocate 323.209.8130 consultbj1@aol.com Page 138 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

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I never knew there was such a thing as “Holiday Blues” until I separated from my now ex-husband.

I was in a real funk as the holidays approached, I would definitely say depressed, but had not connected my feelings to the timing of the approaching holidays. I left a doctor’s office and spied a pamphlet sitting on a nearby countertop entitled “Holiday Blues”. It was the beginning of feeling better when I began to understand that I was not suffering alone with my feelings – that it was, indeed, completely normal for me to feel accentuated grief as the impending holidays were reminding me of happier times.

WHAT ARE THE HOLIDAY BLUES? Holiday Blues or holiday depression are when the season triggers sadness, melancholy and even grief for many people. A few of the reasons for this are estrangement/divorce, loss, grief, isolation, loneliness, excess fatigue, unrealistic expectations, over-commercialization, change in daily routines, change in diet, inability to be with one’s family and friends or even SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).

To focus in on one of these examples, many people get depressed during gloomy weather due to the relative loss of sunlight and colder temperatures they may experience during the winter months. I know that when I lived in Seattle (a city which I love) for a few years, there were times that I was affected by SAD. My self-discovered cure was a combination of overconsumption of chocolate and throwing myself on a plane every time I was invited to any business and/or social event that would take me to a sunnier climate.

Signs of depression can include the following: changes in sleep, weight or appetite, irritability, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, crying spells and mood swings, body aches, agitation and anxiety, loss of interest in usual activities, social withdrawal, crying and feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness and guilt. According to a survey by the National Women’s Health Resource Center (NWHRC), two-thirds of women say they’re depressed during the holidays.

[Please note that if your symptoms of depression are severe or if they continue for a few weeks, more than the holidays may be the cause and it would be wise to seek professional help.]

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HOLIDAY STRESS We all know what stress is and there are many reasons they we feel extra-stressed during the holiday season. A few of the reasons are the following: too many commitments and demands, the pressure (which usually falls on women) of shopping, cooking, baking, cleaning and planning family dinners when you’re already overworked and tired, entertaining house guests, the stress of trying to please all your relatives and/or not having or fearing not having enough money to buy gifts.

HOLIDAY HEADACHES Tension, migraine and sinus headaches are common during the holidays as a side effect of some of the common activities of the season. They can be triggered by such things as the consumption of Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

HOW CAN ESSENTIAL OILS HELP? Essential oils can help resolve emotional and physical issues safely without side effects, are non-habit forming and work quickly.

Essential oils are the distilled "life force" or the "immune system" of the plant, tree or bark. Essential oils are 100% natural. They are steam distilled or cold pressed extraction, and very concentrated -- they are 50 to 70 times more powerful than herbs (1 drop of peppermint oil is equivalent to 28 cups of peppermint tea). It is important to use oils that are Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade in order to assure they are the best medicinal quality and to realize the best results. doTERRA is the only company whose essential oils have this certification.

decadent treats, the stress of shopping, loud music, flashing lights, strong odors like cigarette and cigar smoke, neglecting oneself by forgetting to eat regularly, being sleepdeprived, etc. Especially if one is dehydrated, they can also be triggered by drinking on an empty stomach, mixing cocktails or having too much alcohol as the different toxic byproducts of alcohol combine. They can also be caused when one clenches one’s jaw or tightens one’s shoulder and neck muscles while mallshopping, fighting traffic, looking for parking spaces, wrapping presents, carrying heavy packages or sitting at a computer for online shopping.

This causes the muscles that go into the skull to tighten and squeeze your head. Additionally, sinus headaches can be brought on by seasonal colds, congested sinuses, dry indoor air, sudden changes in temperature and cold, damp air.

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Essential oils powerfully affect the brain because inhaling aromatic compounds from essential oils delivers them to the olfactory bulb, part of the brain’s limbic system known as our “emotional brain”.

Odor stimuli in the limbic system release a series of brain chemicals.

The olfactory bulb is the only place in the body where the central nervous system is exposed to the environment. Our brain is designed to use aroma to heal and soothe itself.

An innovative and highly effective way to counteract Holiday Blues and Stress would be mood management through the use of essential oils. You can use them in a cold air diffuser in the home or office, inhale directly from an open bottle, rub a drop of oil on a tissue or between your palms and breathe in the aroma, apply the oils to the bottoms of feet, chest, temples, forehead and pulse points, add 5-10 drops to 1 Tbs. fractionated coconut oil and use as a massage oil, and/or add 2-5 drops to warm bath water and bathe. Here are four special blends doTERRA has created that may be especially useful for mood management throughout the holidays and beyond: E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive Page 141

1) JOYFUL BLEND (Lavandin, Tangerine, Elemi, Lemon Myrtle, Melissa, Ylang Ylang, Osmanthus and Sandalwood) has been known to have antidepressant qualities, relieve stress and invoke cheerful feelings.

People who have felt withdrawn and hopeless have experienced feeling inspired and encouraged after using Joyful Blend.

2) CALMING BLEND (Lavender, Sweet Marjoram, Roman Chamomile, Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood and Vanilla Bean Extract) has been known to be soothing, alleviate anxiety, reduce cortisol and help nervous tension. People who have felt angry and impatient have experienced feeling calm and composed after using Calming Blend. It is also great for calming children who may become hyperactive as a result of eating too many sugary holiday treats and seasonal activities.

3) GROUNDING BLEND

4) INVIGORAT

(Spruce, Rosewood, Blue Tansy and Frankincense) has been known to be consoling, help rid feelings of anger, support a positive attitude and release emotional blocks. People who have felt tense and worried have experienced feeling reassured and

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(Orange, Lemon, Grape Tangerine, Clem Extract) has anxiety, p have antid ease nervo have felt un have experi stimulated vigorating Blend

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Regarding the physical problem of Tension, Migraine and Sinus Headaches, I would recommend doTERRA’s HEADACHE RELIEF BLEND (Wintergreen, Lavender, Peppermint, Frankincense, Cilantro, Roman Chamomile, Marjoram, Basil and Rosemary). In addition to curing several of my own headaches and many day-after hangovers in my nephew’s recent wedding party, I have personally witnessed someone who had had a headache for so many years that she couldn’t remember when she last didn’t have one, have immediate relief a few minutes after using the Headache Relief Blend Roll On.

HOLIDAY INDIGESTION

TING BLEND

efruit, Mandarin, Bergamot, mentine and Vanilla Bean s been known to alleviate promote physical energy, depressant qualities and help ous tension. People who nmotivated and discouraged ienced feeling invigorated, and motivated after using Ind.

While some people may need to be on prescription antidepressants (and one should never stop or wean down from an antidepressant unless under a doctor’s supervision), for many people the use of these essential oils is much less expensive, more pleasurable, non-addictive and effective in addressing their emotional concerns.

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I can also help you ease the physical problem of Holiday Ingestion (i.e. the consumption of too much rich and fatty or sugary food) with doTERRA’s DIGESTIVE BLEND SOFT GELS. Digestive Blend contains a unique combination of Ginger, Peppermint, Tarragon, Fennel, Caraway, Coriander and Anise to aid in digestion and ease stomach discomfort in a soothing, natural way—all in a vegetarian softgel that dissolves easily.

Digestive Blend softgels give you the effectiveness of the Digestive Blend Essential Oil blend in convenient softgels that are perfect for traveling, on the go, or over the river and through the woods to Grandma's house!

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SPREADING HOLIDAY JOY (WITHOUT CALORIES!)

It's beginning to smell a lot like the holidays! ~ Either diffuse or apply 10 drops of doTERRA's Holiday Joy Essential Oil Blend (Siberian Fir, Wild Orange Peel, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Bark, Cassia, Douglas Fir, Nutmeg, Vanilla Bean) to pine cones to fill your house with a wonderful holiday aroma! I just received my first bottle of this last week and cannot stop smelling it.

Holiday Joy is one of doTERRA’s most sought after oil blends during the holiday season because it fills homes with the aroma of the holidays. Some may think that Holiday Joy Blend can only be used as a fragrance, but remember that these are essential oils, after all, and each oil in the blend helps to provide many benefits.

Let’s take a look at each essential oil in the blend and how they can benefit you:

Wild Orange: Great for helping to energize and revitalize your mind and body. Wild Orange also helps uplift your mood and reduces anxiety. Who wouldn’t like those benefits around the holidays?

Siberian/Douglas Fir: Bring the smell of a live Christmas tree into your home while helping to increase your family’s immune system keeping them happy and healthy.

Cassia: Historically, Cassia was used and mentioned in Old Testament literature. It contains properties to help maintain physical and emotional well being, and is known for its ability to calm one’s anxiety. Its spicy aroma is also great during the cold months.

Cinnamon Bark: Cinnamon essential oil has many therapeutic benefits including its cleansing properties.

It is also one of the essential oils found in doTERRA’s Protective Blend to help support your immune system.

Nutmeg: This sweet and spicy aroma does more than just have a wonderful smell, it also helps comforts and sooth your emotional well-being.

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Vanilla: Helps calm and relax, uplifts moods, and can help reduce stress, anger, tension, and irritability. Every home could use a little more relaxation instead of tension during the holidays.

Holiday Joy is certainly more than just a fragrance! Make sure to diffuse it in your home to keep your family happy, healthy, and joyful this holiday season.

If you would like one or more of the bottles of Holiday Joy Blend, please contact me right away so I can make sure to secure it/them for you as this is a limited release item.

Let me help you put together an Essential Oils Mood Management kit of any or all four unique, powerful and beautifully scented doTERRA essential oils blends (Joyful Blend, Calming Blend, Grounding Blend and Invigorating Blend) which will be uniquely suited for your needs and those of your loved ones and friends. We can also add in as appropriate the Headache Relief Blend, the Digestive Blend and the Holiday Joy Essential Blend to help ensure that, not only will you survive this year’s holiday blues, stress, headaches, but that you will be able to rise above the “post holiday let down” after New Year’s and thrive in 2015.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season! To all of our health!

B.J. Miller Premier Wellness Advocate 323.209.8130 consultbj1@aol.com http://mydoterra.com/ bjmiller

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Happy New Gear!

It’s A Perfect Time to Shift Tactics, Hit Your Peak And Motivate Others

By Brenda Williams

As challenging as your work life can be, sometimes the biggest challenge of all is just staying motivated. We have a hundred tasks vying for our attention. Or perhaps we work with difficult people but lack the authority to effect any change. Events happen in our personal lives that can get us off course. They can all take their toll on our motivation levels. Since the new year often signals the commitment to new goals and fresh starts, it’s the Page 146 E The Magazine for Today’s Female Executive

perfect time to switch gears and try some new tactics for motivating yourself, as well as your team.

These days, most of us don’t have the luxury of performing at anything less than our peak. Hitting that peak day after day is a challenge in its own right. But if we pay attention to the basics, and lock them into place, we can stay on a strong course. From there, you will be better equipped to engage and inspire your employees or coworkers, as well. But you come first!

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The very first place to start is to assess whether you really believe you can achieve your goals. This may seem obvious, but the importance of this point is easy to overlook. As motivational speaker and trainer Brian Tracy puts it, you simply cannot achieve something you don’t believe you can achieve. A related point is making sure your work is aligned with your talents and your values. To work at your peak, what you do must, over time, be in sync with what you enjoy doing and with what you believe in.

Even when you are completely in sync with your goals, you are still bound to hit occasional psychological roadblocks when you look at the piles of papers, the seemingly endless to-do list, the voicemail light flashing, the email alert blinking — and it all seems too much!

Here are some ideas to get going and stay going at a peak level:

Start each day with a review of your goals.

In a 24/7 world, it’s easy to lose sight of where you ultimately want to go. Take the 30 minutes at the beginning of each day, when your mind is still clear, to review your goals.

Start with your big goals and then

put today’s work in the context of achieving them. If there is a chronic discrepancy between your long-term goals and what you are planning to work on today, it will unmistakably emerge in these early morning sessions.

Figure out your “next actions.” When you are overwhelmed with a seemingly endless to -do list, many motivational experts recommend starting with anything in order to “get some points on the Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

While doing something may be better than doing nothing, doing the right thing is better still. David Allen, a well-known productivity board” by checking something off the list.

consultant, recommends identifying the next physical action required for each of your open projects. That way, your to-do list is not encumbered with everything, but just with the “next things.” No matter what you do on the list, you will be accomplishing something that matters.

Do nothing. Another way to sustain your motivation is to periodically do nothing. Turn off your Blackberry, hibernate your computer, shut down your iPod—actually take 20 minutes or so to truly do nothing but sit and relax. If you are unfamiliar with this process, the first time will seem like torture after about five minutes. But with a little practice you will find that a brief respite of real quiet can be tremendously rejuvenating.

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Look to your energy levels. Consider the advice of performance consultants Jim

Loehr and Tony Schwartz who say, “Energy,

not time, is the fundamental currency of high performance.” After years studying professional athletes, they realized that in many ways, your brain is exactly like the muscles in your body. Too much work will strain it and you will perform below your peak. (Too little mental work will cause the same result, but not many of us face that issue.) In their book The Power of Full Engagement, Loehr and Schwartz say that stress is important to maintain motivation—provided that you build in sufficient recovery time. Their techniques for managing your energy levels range from taking 10-15 minutes for a walk around the block every couple of hours, to changing your diet, to building in recovery time after the work day ends and it is time to re-engage with your family.

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Having these blocks in place doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing, but it does set you up to have the best possible chance for sustaining a level of motivation that will contribute positively to your success. Only then will you be in your best position to pass that motivation to your team.

Jumpstart to an Engaged, Energetic and Enthusiastic Team Is this the year you dream to do something new about having a fully committed and engaged team? What I hear most often is that leading a team can be like herding cats. But it doesn’t have to be that way. The beginning of a new year gives everyone the excuse to do something drastic, new or daring. It’s the perfect timing to engage a team that might be more ready than ever to try a new approach at something.

Here are two valuable recommendations on how to start building a fully engaged team so your projects will be completed ahead of Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

schedule, your customers will be delighted, budgets will be met, morale will be high and turnover will be low:

individual, as well as team peak performance. Don’t let the thought of just trudging through another year become the norm. Initiate the change you want to see and then make it happen!

Don’t engage teams, engage 1.

individuals.

Get their individual commitments to generate ownership and personal pride. Show them the big picture, get them involved and help them see how their work will contribute to the end result. Make them feel special and appreciated and morale will increase!

2.

Remember to communicate clearly. Make sure everyone on your team fully understands the task, their roles and, most importantly the purpose of their work? When this happens, their level of commitment will deepen.

Once your team understands, owns and believes in their work, they will become more engaged, energetic and enthusiastic. This creates synergy, loyalty and productivity sky rockets!

However, sometimes a group of coworkers may be stuck in a rut and needs a little jump start.

Working with a Board Certified Professional Coach can be a great way to revitalize a team or get the wheels in motion for a new direction.

Having a third party, neutral personality on board can provide a fresh perspective and a non-threatening approach to achieving Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

Brenda Williams is a wellrespected, Board Certified Coach who has provided consulting and coaching to individuals and businesses for over 25 years. Her focus is on leadership development and emotional intelligence, creating a Self Mastery System that leads to progressive communication skills and extraordinary relationships. She helps individuals and organizations make critical changes in their behavior, mindset and skills — leading to Laser Focused Results and Transformational Change.

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Click Here Or for a customized Quote send email

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Magic!- “RUDE” Parody-corporate Version http://youtu.be/j4WvsJQhJxQ

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Juanita Wynn Gospel Artist

I remember the first time I was introduced to my own voice. I was 15 years old, broken inside with low self esteem. To make matters worse, I was 5 months pregnant with my first child. My father had a vision for my sisters and I to record an album. It was my first studio experience and finally my turn to go into the vocal booth, put the head phones on and sing the lead on a song my sister Patricia wrote called "God said it". The music started and I began to sing. I was so overwhelmed and excited by the clarity of my own voice. I had heard it before, but not like this. It was as if I was hearing it for the first time. In the other room everyone was quiet and I felt like the world was listening to me and what I had to say. At the end of the song my emotions took over, and I was crying and singing at the same time, and it was recorded. Everyone loved it and voted erase it.for The familyFemale called Executive Page 152 Enot ThetoMagazine Today’s

me Michael Jackson that day. From then on I knew I wanted to spend my life inspiring youth and encouraging adults from all walks of life through my music.

The project I am working on now will be entitled "Be Who You Are", after a song I wrote. The inspiration behind "Be who you are" came from my own personal struggles with acceptance throughout my life at home, church and school. Rather it was the color of my skin being too dark, or not dressing trendy enough, or being able to talk with enough slang, swag or eloquence, depending on the environment, no matter how hard I tried I still never fit in completely. When it came to religious beliefs or even my choice of friends, I struggled with trying to measure up quite often. As a teenage run away, while on the streets I met kids from different walks of life, black, white, Spanish, Native American Indian and mixed. Some came from rich homes, some were preachers kids, some were born to drug addicted parents and became involved with prostitution to make money to survive.

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I learned at a young age that we all have pain.

We all desire to have love, appreciation and acceptance. The truth of the matter is that we will ALWAYS fail at trying to please others or trying to be anyone other than ourselves. So, My ULTIMATE message is to love yourself, and "LOVE OTHERS IN SPITE OF" our differences and just be who you were created to be, and that is YOU. My desire is to take this message of "Be who you are & Love in spite of", all over the world. After all was said and done, LOVE became the greatest commandment. Allowing each other to be who we are, and still find love in our hearts no matter what our differences might be can change a generation for the good.

At the age of 5, in her father’s church is where it all began, touching everyone with the angelic sounds of her voice. She soon joined her five older siblings singing group “The Wynn Sisters” where she learned the art of harmonizing. While her love for music embodies her, she then began writing her own songs, ultimately, attracting the interest of music’s icon Quincy Jones, for “Quincy Jones Music Publishing”. This was her first 2 year publishing deal. Later, signed on with Sony ATV Music Publishing for 4 years.

Juanita Wynn wrote for one of Motown’s legends, the incomparable Diana Ross, writing her title cut, “Everyday is a New Day”. She has also written for artists such as; Grammy Nominee Gospel Artist Fred Hammond as a songwriter/ Juanita is featured in this issue of Hip Hop Weekly arranger/background vocals on 9 tracks; the soulful R&B songstress Angie Stone, The most hit single “Lately”. The lists of amazing talents are unrepopular, multimitting. platinum selling female Juanita has pride herself as a notable singer/songwriter R&B group professionally for over 10 years and now it is time to reDestiny’s veal the quintessence of her soul. The self-titled track Child, Verity “My Story Continues” is an up- tempo, high intense song gospel group that manifests her life’s struggles and triumphs, and ofVirtue, Ben fers inspirations to young single mothers and troubled Tankard, Jazz teens. Juanita’s journey has been in much anticipation musician Norof introducing the world her interpretations of love, joy, man Brown peace and encouragement for those that will listen. and Shirley Murdock, just Her sultry, dynamic and vibrant voice will captito name a few. vate the hearts and minds on her eagerly awaitShe also had the privilege of ing upcoming project. You have met her music, singing backnow come into her world… ground on Juanita Wynn’s World.

Tyrese Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

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Seven Thousand Ways to listen Author Mark Nepo About Mark Nepo

Mark Nepo moved and inspired readers and seekers all over the world with his number one New York Times bestseller The Book of Awakening. Beloved as a poet, teacher, and storyteller, Mark has been called "one of the finest spiritual guides of our time," "a consummate storyteller," and "an eloquent spiritual teacher." His work is widely accessible and used by many and his books have been translated into more than twenty languages. A bestselling author, he has published fifteen books and recorded nine audio projects.

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Recent work includes The Endless Practice (forthcoming from Atria, 2014), Inside the Miracle (forthcoming from Sounds True, 2015), his latest book of poems, Reduced to Joy (Viva Editions, 2013), cited by Spirituality & Practice as one of the Best Spiritual Books of 2013, a 6 CD box set of teaching conversations based on the poems in Reduced to Joy (Sounds True, 2014), and Seven Thousand Ways to Listen (Atria), which won the 2012 Books for a Better Life Award. Mark has appeared several times with Oprah Winfrey on her Super Soul Sunday program on OWN TV. He has also been interviewed by Robin Roberts on Good Morning America. The Exquisite Risk was cited by Spirituality & Practice as one of the Best Spiritual Books of 2005, calling it "one of the best books we've ever read on what it takes to live an authentic life."

Mark devotes his writing and teaching to the journey of inner transformation and the life of relationship. He continues to offer readings, lectures, and retreats.

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Listen as author Mark Nepo discuss the range of experience between writing his book and then narrating it.

Mark also talks about the inspiration that lead him to writing the book.

As you listen to this 2 min recording pay special attention to the tone and vibration of his voice. It’s actually an expression of his craft.

Other Books By Mark Nepo

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Business Management During Holiday Distractions Tracy Repchuk, Bestselling Author

There is no bigger distraction to an entrepreneur or business than a holiday that starts in October and carries it’s last vestiges into the new year - aka Christmas.

So what is a person to do during a time when offices close, clients aren’t available, staff has time off, and expenses don’t stop. For those businesses that thrive on the Christmas shopping season, this is their year end savior - for the rest of us - it becomes a tightrope one walks between work and play.

Here are some suggestions to help you keep your sanity.

1. Line up as much work as you can in advance so that with or without access to your clients you could be keeping busy and moving forward.

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off slow as well as people put off planing until then and so it’s the 3rd week of January before new projects are considered.

2. you have down time - get your taxes in order.

Make sure all your records are up-to-date, paperwork is in order, and an ‘income guesstimate’ is sent to your tax advisor or accountant so if you need to take advantage of tax breaks before the end of the year you need to know now.

In fact, pitch an offer to your prospects based on them getting the write off in this current year. If a company has done well and needs to reduce taxable income, they can pay for training and services now that you can complete in the new year.

Do a structured and detailed marketing plan for at least 6 months. This includes marking the calendar first with big campaigns and events then Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

working your way back establish what needs to be done to make those a success. If you do email marketing (and you should be if you aren’t), then plan those campaigns out as well. ie. Black Friday, Memorial Day, 4th of July, etc. along with your normal master promotions.

Any gaps remaining - fill with webinars to drum up interest in your mid to upper level programs.

4. Spend some time on your major goals.

For example if you have 2 major personal goals - ie. get more speaking gigs and become a published author then put together a strategy you will apply to make those a reality this year.

For example improve your linkedin profile and join speaking groups, and set aside 4 hours every Saturday to write for the book until it’s done.

It’s all about focus on the big rocks.

5. Enjoy some of the social events available this season, have fun with your friends and family, and don’t overdo it or you’ll lose the next day’s productivity and possibly more.

If you can mix business with pleasure, even better.You can even continue this through the year and scan for meetings and seminars you can attend locally next year to get familiar with local businesses who may need your services.

Go to meetup.com and you’ll find something in your neighborhood.

6. Take care of yourself. This is the time to take a look at any changes you need to make so that self care lets you be strong enough to carry out your task successfully.

Do you need to eat better, add exercise to your schedule, get some vitamins in your routine, do something that helps you relax.

Start with once a week and then add more frequency as you can. Don’t over do the addition of new habits or you will drop them all. Get one in, do it for 21 days, add another.

7. Analyze your statistics. This is the time to reflect on what worked last year and what didn’t. For example; 

what social media platforms converted for you



what type of posts converted best



what is your landing page conversions - is there something you should change (headline, offer, images)



how many sales calls did you do versus conversions to upper level or clients at all (do you need to do more calls, improve your script, improve your offer) look at everything with new eyes and get in what worked even stronger, and eliminate what wasted your time.



So have a great holiday season and if

you worked any or all of the above into your next year, you are certain to see the benefits of time well spent.

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Tracy Repchuk, is a 7-Time International Bestselling Author and Online Marketing and Social Media Strategist and speaker. As an award-winning entrepreneur since the age of 19 with over 30 years of business, internet, SEO, and marketing background she has helped thousands of clients get their message online fast and effectively. In addition she has appeared as a technology specialist in National TV segments with ABC, NBC, FOX, HGTV, San Diego Living, Good Morning New Mexico, CNBC, Report on Business TV, Vegas Inc, The CW, USA Today, Forbes, MSN, and over 50 publications, newspapers and magazines, plus hundreds of speaking appearances in over 35 countries. Get Tracy's guide Instant Online Impact for free at: www.FastActionResults.com Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

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Join NAFE at any of these Southern California Networks Nafe is the largest global network for women with thousands of members. They recently celebrated their 42nd anniversary, headquartered in New York they have many affiliate networks across the country.

Would a group of women sharing their dreams…supporting, encouraging and mentoring you, be beneficial at this time of your life. Nafe offers great benefits to members, and the annual membership is only $39.00 go to www.nafe.com and check out all the wonderful benefits and information on Southern CA networks at www.wrnafe.com Meeting fees are $10.00 for Nafe Members and $15.00 for guests.

As the Western & Mid Atlantic Regional Coordinator I invite YOU to join us at one of our monthly NAFE meetings, we also have several new networks soon to start, so get on the list so you can be invited to the kickoff meetings. It’s made up of entrepreneurs, small business owners, corporate executives and women working for companies or even women starting a business.

Come and join us at one of these monthly Nafe affiliate meetings: Please contact the Director of the network below. Any Nafe questions you may contact me Robbie Motter Nafe Western & Mid Atlantic Regional Coordinator at 951-255-9200 or email rmotter@aol.com. Also another opportunity is to sign up on the network you are interested in joining meetup page, this gives you added exposure Nafe also has a Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter page and the Western Region Nafe also has a facebook page so those locations are also added benefits for our Global Nafe members.

As a member you will join one of the networks but you may attend any of the network meetings each month as they all offer great networking opportunities.

Carlsbad Nafe Affiliate Network is on hiatus. Contact Robbie Motter Nafe Western & Mid Atlantic Regional Coordinator 951-255-9200 or rmotter@aol.com to be on the list to be invited to the new meeting we are looking to relocate this network to a North Corridor San Diego location.

Coastal Nafe Network Meets 3rd Thursday at 11:30 am at Marie Callender's 12489 Seal Beach Blvd Seal Beach, Ca , Director Bobbi Tomsovic 714-492-9262 email btomsovic@yahoo.com Corona/Eastvale/.Norco/Chino Hills/Riverside Nafe Network Meets 1 st Monday at 6:30 pm at Marie Callender’s 160 E Rincon Street, Corona, Ca, Director Grace Jeon 626-487-7181 email gracewithclass@gmail.com Corona Meetup page is http://tinyurl.com/l55gkbk Irvine/Costa Mesa Nafe Affiliate Network Meets 4th Tuesday, 6:00 pm Call for new Meeting Location and date network will again start up, contact Rael Hall, Director at 949=284-6996, email rael@innerwisdomsolutions.com, Irvine/.Costa Mesa meetup page is http://tinyurl.com/nw7b658 https://www.facebook.com/pages/IrvineCosta-Mesa-NAFE/1423017751287137?ref=hl

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Los Angeles Nafe Affiliate Network Meets 2nd Tuesday, 6:00 pm at Rush Street Restaurant, 9546 West Washington Boulevard, Culver City, Calif 90232(310) 837-9546 Director, Althea Ledford, 310-990-9496, email allyledo@aol.com Menifee Nafe Network, Lunch meets the 2nd Wed 11:30 am, Boston Billie’s Restaurant 26850 Cherry Hills Blvd, Sun City, Ca. Contact Robbie Motter, NAFE Western Regional Coordinator & Director of this network 951-2559200 or email rmotter@aol.com Menifee/.Murrieta Meetup page http:// tinyurl.com/cjbvurl Menifee Nafe Network Dinner meets the 4th Thursday of the month at 5:30 pm at Boston Billie’s Restaurant 26850 Cherry Hills Blvd, Sun City, CA. Contact Robbie Motter, Nafe Western & Mid Atlantic Regional Coordinator & Director of this network 951-255-9200 or email rmotter@aol.com Menifee/Murrieta Meetup page http://tinyurl.com/cjbvurl Murrieta Nafe Network meets the 4th Thursday of each month at 12:00 noon at R J’s Sizzling Steak House 41401 Kalima Street, Murrieta, CA Contact Robbie Motter, Director 951-255-9200 or email rmotter@aol.com Menifee/.Murrieta Meetup page http://tinyurl.com/cjbvurl North Orange County Nafe Network meets the 2nd Monday 11:30am at Marie Callender's 5711 East La Palma Ave Anaheim Hills. Ca 92807. Off the 91 Freeway at Imperial and LaPalma Contact Sheila A Caruso, Director 949-330-0927 email sheilaacaruso@gmail.com NOC meetup page is http://tinyurl.com/d6rcdzu Palm Springs, Coming soon, contact Robbie Motter 951-255-9200 or email rmotter@aol.com to get your name on the list to be invited to the new network Rancho Cucamonga Nafe Affiliate Network meets the 3rd Thursday of each month at Carrows Restaurant 11669 Foothill Blvd Rancho Cucamonga CA 91730. Cross St: Carrows is Between Mayten and Masi Dr. Banquet Room on left of greeter/cash register area. contact Luz Garcia Pennock, Director 909-463-8480 luz@happilyworking.com Riverside Nafe Coming in the new year Joan Wakeland Director 909-7217648 or email joanewakeland@gmail.com South Orange County Nafe Affiliate network meets the 1st Thursday 6:30 pm at Sarducci’s 26701 Verdugo, San Juan Capistrano, CA Contact Mikki StGermain, Director 949-429-3438 or St.Germain.Mikki@gmail.com Ventura County Nafe Affilate Network, meets 3rd Wednesday 12:00 noon at Mimi’s Café, 400 N Moorpark Road Thousand Oaks, Ca 91320, Contact Director Sheryl Tash 805-794-4005 or email sheryldtash@gmail.com We are always looking for more individuals to step to the plate to start additional Nafe networks in the Southern CA area, contact Robbie Motter, Nafe Western & Mid Atlantic Regional Coordinator, rmotter@aol.com or 951-255-9200 Subscription link www.female-exec.com/s.html

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Do What the Cool Guys do…

Step Out This Christmas

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