FALL 2014
MAGAZINE
Learned LESSONS
Inspired by
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
Mentor & Sponsor
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Contents
MAGAZINE
Karen Marsdale, Senior Editor • Melissa Varone, Editor Dawn Maurer Derr, Associate Editor
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201 Penn Street • Suite 501 • Reading, PA 19601 berkswomen2women.com • 610.376.6766
Women2Women Advisory Council Alexa S. Antanavage Margarita M. Caicedo Vicki O. Ebner Kim Hippert-Eversgerd Nancy Hoban Karen Marsdale
Fall 2014
Lessons Learned cover story
Julia Nickey Mary Jean Noon Michele Richards Matilde Rodriguez Sotomayor, MD Carolyn Shultz-Spano Connie Skipper
Women2Women, managed by the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, encourages women to create connections, gain knowledge, open doors and build strategic alliances, and much more. Our goal is to create more women leaders in Berks County by providing a forum where women from diverse backgrounds can learn, share ideas and mentor each other. Membership is free and open to all women of Berks County. Women2Women Magazine is a publication of the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
To join: W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org
Women2Know 8
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Lessons Learned
Stay connected: BerksWomen2Women.com Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women LinkedIn: Berks Women2Women Title Sponsors St. Joseph Regional Health Network Wells Fargo Platinum Sponsors Alvernia University Penske Truck Leasing Reading Eagle Company Reading Health System Santander Bank Savage Dodge, Inc. Susquehanna Bank VF Outlet Center Gold Sponsors BCTV Berks County Bar Association Berks County Living Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store Bellco Federal Credit Union Boscov’s Department Store, Inc. Carpenter Technology Corporation First Priority Bank Fulton Bank—Great Valley Division Herbein + Company, Inc. Leisawitz Heller Lords & Ladies Salon & Medical Spa M & T Bank National Penn Bank ParenteBeard, LLC RKL LLP Riverfront Federal Credit Union Sweet Street Desserts, Inc. Tompkins VIST Bank Wyomissing Hair Studio The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
For Advertising Opportunities: call 610.685.0914 Ext. 1 Read W2W Magazine Online at BerksWomen2Women.com
Fall Recipes to Warm Your Soul
Growth2Go 16
The “New” SAT
18
The Difference Between Mentor and Sponsor
19
Tips for Starting a Business
What Busy Moms Need to Know
wORK2LIFE 20
Area Educator Credits Advanced Degrees for Enabling Job Satisfaction, Fulfillment
22 27
Inspired by Success
Health2Wellness 29 32 34
Women and Alzheimer’s Disease Movember Moustache Movement Prenuptial Agreements—
The End of a Good Relationship?
36 41
The Culinary Classroom Fall Recipes to Warm Your Soul
Bridge to Better
It Starts With a Story
In Every Issue 6 14
Editor’s Desk W2W Events
44 47
Book Club More Women2Know
Like us at Facebook.com/ BerksWomen2Women
© 2014 All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the expressed written permission of the publisher. Women2Women Magazine is published quarterly by Hoffmann Publishing Group, Reading, PA HoffmannPublishing.com • 610.685.0914 On the Cover: Diane Salks, Riverview Tree & Landscaping. Photo by: Maria Stamy Photography
Editor’s Desk
Welcome
FALL!
Maria Stamy Photography
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Melissa Varone, Editor, Women2Women Magazine Assistant VP, Marketing, Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Women2Women Magazine
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Paula Barron Tompkins VIST Bank
Julia Klein C. H. Briggs Company
Phoebe Canakis Phoebe’s Pure Foods
Karen Marsdale Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Dawn Maurer Derr Sunrise Communication Heather Adams SMG Tracy Hoffmann Hoffmann Publishing Group
Julia Nickey St. Joseph Regional Health Network Connie Skipper Berks County Intermediate Unit Melissa Varone Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry
learn something new every day—it may be information or it may be something about myself. Sometimes the knowledge is gained by experience; sometimes it’s learned from others. I feel fortunate to be blessed with many peers, colleagues and friends who generously share their career advice and personal guidance. Although I do not always heed their advice, I nonetheless have learned valuable insight. And, that is why I am so excited to share this issue. Our articles focus on lessons learned in business, advice on starting a business, as well as practical career advice. Our feature story covers six successful women who get a little personal and share all. We dive deeper and have more specific tips for those considering starting their own business. And, we even polled our followers on facebook in search of feedback. You may notice that even our reading list features titles related to business. I personally loved the book, “Who Moved My Cheese.” Reminds me to always embrace change even when it’s scary. I noticed on the list “Hug Your Customers.” (I never read this title but I do already hug a lot of Chamber and Women2Women members!) Women2Women’s Path2Personal Development series kicks off in October and I encourage you to attend the launch session or one of the subsequent events. Through its Path2Personal Development program, Women2Women is committed to fostering healthy mentoring in our community. There is also an article about the difference between mentoring and sponsorship, which you may find interesting. Since we just passed September—the start of school and the prime time for education, we naturally highlighted a retired teacher who still teaches, but in the kitchen! There are some yummy new recipes included from our culinary wizard that I hope you will try to master and add to your menu. And our More Women2Know column features two amazing educators who are inspiring our youth. New this issue is a list of Top Threats to Women’s Health. You may be surprised to learn what fills the number one spot: heart disease. We plan to explore each threat in more detail in future issues. This issue addresses Alzheimer’s, and we eventually will tackle and cover all 10. By the time you have read this issue, we will have launched our 4th year of Women2Women programming. I hope you take time out of your busy schedule to come out to an event, read the magazine or volunteer your time. Each year, it just keeps getting better. Cheers to year 4! Happy Reading!
Melissa Varone 6 Women2Women Fall 2014
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Community & Business Profiles, Insights & Highlights
LESSONS
Learned
Dawn Maurer Derr Sunrise Communications
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s Women2Women readers will discover from our featured small business owners—starting and growing a business is much like raising a child…it is often a 24/7 job that may reap heart-warming rewards, but not without first being subjected to challenges, obstacles, sweat equity and sleepless nights. Although no two businesses are exactly alike, successful business tactics are largely universal. In this story we share lessons learned from six local women who sit at the top of their establishments: Diane K. Salks, Riverview Tree & Landscaping Inc.; Sherri Hoffer, Reading Elevator Service Inc.; Virginia Dodge, VA Productions, Inc.; Patricia McLaughlin and Megan Bauer, Coventry Corners and Maria DiCecco, Celebrated Occasions.
What Lessons Have You Learned?
“While I believe that it is easier to work for others, there is a lot of fulfillment from working for yourself,” says Diane Salks, owner of Riverview Tree & Landscaping.
8 Women2Women Fall 2014
“It is important to recognize and be grateful for all of my blessings and this gratitude encourages me to look for and find ways to give back. I also think it is important to treat everyone fairly and with respect. This includes staff, customers, and business friends and associates.” Patricia McLaughlin, founder and president of Coventry Corners gift boutique, and her daughter Megan Bauer, vice president, say: “Location, location, location does really matter; listen to your staff, patrons, surrounding professionals and most of all—your gut; and remember you can never be afraid to take a well-thought-out risk.” Says Virginia Dodge, owner/founder/ president of VA Dodge Productions, Inc., a video production and audio/visual service company based in Cumru Township, “I learned not to get too heavy with overhead and if you get burned by a client not paying, learn from that and don’t keep taking work from them.” Sherri Hoffer, owner of Reading Elevator Service, Inc: “I have not only learned how to be a well-rounded employer, but also a well-rounded person. Being a small business owner allows you to more intimately understand your clients and their business and circumstances. There’s gratification in knowing all your clients on a first name basis, which is not common nowadays.” Maria DiCecco, owner of her own catering and party planning business, Celebrated Occasions, says, “It is important to keep your eye on the ball and not be complacent.”
What Challenges Have You Faced?
“In 1982, the year we opened, the lending rate was 18 percent,” said McLaughlin, who with her daughter operates a Coventry Corners store in the Berkshire (Wyomissing) and Coventry (Pottstown) malls. “The economy has fluctuated up and down dramatically. We cannot do anything to change the economy but we did learn to monitor it, buying accordingly over the past 30 plus years. You cannot live on your past laurels, but continue to treat each day, month, and year as new.”
our experience and go with someone else who may be a little cheaper.” At Riverview, where running the 18-acre nursery and 5,000-square-foot garden center is a family affair, challenges differ slightly from a non-family run business. “I have been blessed to have the opportunity to work with my family…first with my father and now with my children,” says Salk. “My son, daughter and daughter-in-law are all important parts of Riverview. To be successful, you have to keep work and family relationships separate. It is important to set boundaries. I am very grateful that my children and I are able to maintain this distinction.”
Says DiCecco, whose Mohnton-based catering business specializes in homemade foods, “the evolution of the regional business climate has changed. In order to stay in the market place you must monitor the trends and adapt.” Hoffer, whose personal challenge was to slowly become more involved in the Reading-based elevator business as a result of her husband’s illness and subsequent death, said her biggest business challenge is in educating clients that a maintenance program has long term beneficial effects mechanically and financially. “Another challenge was overcoming the sluggish economy, but we persevered and are stronger,” she notes. “And, going through the process of being Women Business Enterprise National Council certified.”
In your experience, what are three essential characteristics/traits of a successful small business owner? McLaughlin/Bauer ➺ Be bold, take risks, and partner only with the bank.
➺ Hire the best and treat them well. ➺ Evolve and recreate yourself as times change.
Salks ➺ Stamina. ➺ Tenacity. ➺ The ability (and good fortune)
to attract and keep great, loyal staff.
DiCecco ➺ Good communication skills. ➺ The attitude “never give up.” ➺ Respect for and motivating others
Says Dodge, whose global video production business also offers support for meeting and event planning and destination management, “Amazingly, after 20 years, our biggest challenge is right now. The growth of our business has always been word of mouth and repeats, and we weathered the downturns in the economy fine. But I want to grow our business now. It’s also a challenge to be sure clients understand when they are getting bids on projects that they really need to compare apples to apples, otherwise there’s no comparison at all. In our business there is a huge range of variables,
and these can equal a huge range of pricing which needs to be understood in order to know what’s needed, what’s not, and why and how it all works into their budget and end result desires.” Dodge’s personal challenge, she says, is quite different. “On the occasion when we don’t get a job I take it personally. The challenge is to separate it and know it wasn’t for personal reasons that it happened. I just know I can, and WANT, to do such an amazing job that it’s hard when a potential client doesn’t realize the value of
to be successful in the operation.
Hoffer ➺ Patience. ➺ Hard work. ➺ Interfacing. Dodge ➺ It is important for an owner to be ETHICAL in everything they do.
➺ COMMITTED to making sacrifices in
their personal life in order to fulfill the needs of their clients and business. ➺ DETERMINED to provide the very best quality of product and service to their clients.
Continued on page 11 berkswomen2women.com 9
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Tami Klein - My best advice was to “keep it simple” when making decisions for my business. Following that advice has helped eliminate many headaches, I’m sure! Sandra Graffius - Depend on my staff to keep doing their jobs and I trust their loyalty and commitment to our reputation. Don’t take yourself too seriously. I remember sending out a price raise letter and forgetting to include the price card. After mailing to more than 50 customers I wrote a second letter with one sentence. “Perfect people are boring and I promise you —this I will never be.” Put the letter in an envelope with the price card and did a second mailing. Sallie Weaver - Good enough is not good enough. If you want to succeed you need to exceed your own expectations! Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Sue Perrotty - When you are in a position of power you have the right to make many decisions that affect other people, unfortunately, sometimes in a negative way. The question that you should always ask yourself first…I have the right to make this decision, but is it the right thing to do? Connie Bashore - Be happy in what you do. Treat people with respect. Be generous and share the gift of time with family, friends, and the community.
10 Women2Women Fall 2014
Women2Know How is being a small business owner different from any other type of job? Salks: “A small business owner must be a ‘Jack of All Trades’ and fill many roles. When you own a business and have others relying on you, there is more of a sense of urgency. While many folk who work at a ‘job’ are dedicated and important to the success of the company that they work for, when you own your own business you can never really leave it.” Hoffer: “All of your life you are told ‘treat this company as if it’s your own’. And when you finally have your own business, you understand what that means. Unlike having a job, you don’t just have one position to fulfill; your responsibility is for the entire operation. No pressure!” McLaughlin/Bauer: “It truly has been a memorable adventure, enjoying each day along the way. Setting our goals high, working hard, engaging our fantastic guests and with the dedication of our family & staffs, Coventry Corners has become our way of life.” Dodge: “Everything comes back to you and is a reflection of you. You are your business and your business is you. For me there is no separation. With most jobs, you usually have a relatively set number of hours you work in a day, regularly scheduled days off each week, and you leave work behind when you come home. I never leave work behind.” DiCecco: “It is all about your decisions and judgment. You can “make it or break it,” changing the course of history of your business.”
What inspires you to thrive? Dodge: “There are so many things that inspire me to thrive. From the belief my parents instilled in me that I could achieve anything I wanted to…to the wonderful relationships I’ve formed with my clients…to the dedication I have to them and the people who work for me. I’m inspired to give back to the community which is a huge part of our DNA at VA Productions…it’s one of the biggest joys we have, besides knowing how happy our clients are during and after a job well done.” Salks: “The great people that I work with and my family. Why does anyone get up every day and go to work? Hopefully because they love what they do and who they are blessed to do it with.” Mclaughlin/Bauer: “This is our way of life. We do not take anything for granted. Our customers are #1 for without them there would be no Coventry Corners.”
DiCecco: “Every event I execute is unique and each comes with its challenges and rewards.” Hoffer: “Being a small business owner, you always want to see other small businesses thrive. We do business with a lot of wonderful people and they inspire me to be a better company every day.”
What resources do you recommend? Hoffer: “For any business, trade magazines and industry associations are always useful tools in learning and keeping fresh about industry news.” McLaughlin/Bauer: “Begin & keep dialogues open with any professionals you admire, in your field or elsewhere.” Salks: “I recommend developing a great network. It is wonderful to be able to contact friends and associates for their advice, recommendations and help. Joining professional associations such as the Chamber of Commerce affords great contacts and networking possibilities.” DiCecco: “Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce, Kutztown University Small Business, establishing a relationship with a banker and a CPA.” Continued on page 12 berkswomen2women.com 11
Women2Know Dodge: “I think participating in things like the Women2Women Lean In Circles and the annual Spring Renewal conference, as well as leadership programs like Leadership Berks at Alvernia University, are key to providing growth, support and inspiration. These types of things also help keep you grounded in the roots of business beyond the projects you work on or products or services you may sell.”
Do you have a mentor/coach/sponsor? McLaughlin/Bauer: “No, I just always went with my gut & paid strict attention to all the details. That is key.” Salks: “I spent several years with a business coach who helped me in many ways. My mentor was my father and I miss his advice. My husband has always helped me through his advice, encouragement and playing the role of my sounding board. He keeps me grounded and helps me make good choices and I am so grateful to him.” DiCecco: “My mother has always been my mentor and role model. Her occupation was a regional manager in the fashion industry for over 30 years at a time when it was not traditional for a woman to hold that type of position. My coach and confidant is my husband Dennis, a professional engineer who assists me with the technical and logistical aspects of the business.” Hoffer: “Being a small company, we are more like family than co-workers. Instead of being a hierarchy, we utilize each other’s ideas, hence mentoring each other.” Dodge: “I can always count on Eric Savage, owner of FREEDOM Auto Group and a great friend and mentor. His advice helps me focus on what’s really important. I greatly admire his ethics, abilities as a successful business person, incredible insights and his commit-
Patricia McLaughlin (left), founder & president of Coventry Corners, and her daughter Megan Bauer (right), vice president.
ment to help others in our community. And I’ve recently started to work with Joni Naugle of Naugle Associates for help with strategic business planning. When I met with her a few months ago she asked me things about my company that I didn’t know the answers to—what’s your succession plan (we have no children), where do you want the business to be, and YOU to be in 5, 10, 20 years? This inspired me to really start working more ON our business rather than IN our business.”
What advice would you give someone contemplating starting a business? McLaughlin/Bauer
• Set your priorities first and never forget them…for me…always, family first. • Find something you like to do where there is a void. • Set your goals high. • Have the confidence and know-how so that the only partner you ever have is your bank, if needed.
Salks
• Be prepared to work long hours, constantly learn, and face many challenges. In the end, you can create a great culture and attract loyal staff. • Network and find professionals in other fields. You can rely on them to help you concerning areas of your business that you are less familiar with. A good group of mentors is invaluable.
DiCecco
• Remember that you are never your own boss if you want a successful business.
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Hoffer
• If you are passionate about something, apply that passion sooner rather than later.
Dodge
• Be ready to not get a lot of sleep. • Always look at the glass as half full—opportunities are there; you just have to figure out how to make them work for you. • Be sure you have a great support group of friends, family and professionals that can encourage you if things get tough and be a sounding board or advisor when you need it.
Visit our website at www.urbancraftfest.com
U
rban Craft Fest was started this under the name Urban Charm, it grew year by Kim Lewis and niece tiresome—thus, Urban Craft Fest was Nicole Renninger, to showcase the born,” said Lewis, owner of Urban work of independent crafters, artists Charm. “Providing a market for local and designers in Berks County and artists is the core of Urban Craft Fest’s beyond—to provide unique, high-quality, mission. Plus, to have fun!” hand-crafted merchandise. Both artists, Urban Craft Fest aims to build a local Kim, a graphic artist and Nicole, a fine community of crafters by organizing artist, share a love of jewelry design. and providing events where crafters Besides local consignment shops and and artists can connect with their fans the GoggleWorks Store, they found it and customer base. What makes this craft show any different from others? It difficult to grow in the local market. “Traveling the craft circuit in the tri- promotes community building activities state area for two years selling jewelry such as other quality craft shows, local
classes and events for people to find their artistic side. Come out on Friday, November 7th, from 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at the Inn at Reading, 1040 North Park Road, Wyomissing. This is not your usual craft show…it is essentially a craft party. It is for the community to meet the artists and crafts people. Enjoy the music. Eat some food. Learn something new. Buy cool stuff! There will be food, cash bar, music, make-n-take projects, raffles and swag bags.
elebrated ccasions WCR Center for the Arts We offer:
• A fully equipped stage and balcony • Seating and table arrangements • State-of-the-art musical acoustics • Accommodations for 175 guests • Convenient parking • A fully licensed caterer & event planner on site Located at 140 North 5th St., in the heart of downtown Reading.
The Villa
The Villa, an early 20th century landmark for all your “Celebrated Occasions”
• 1924 mansion ambience • Indoor wedding chapel • Beautifully appointed ballroom perfect for intimate wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, showers, etc. • Two outdoor wedding sites on 8 acres of beautiful park-like settings • Outdoor tent wedding receptions for unlimited sizes • Off street parking Located at 1201 Museum Rd. Reading, PA
Preferred vendor at the Reading Public Museum, Goggleworks & The Barn at Flying HIlls. For more information please call 610.775.5749 or email: CelebratedOccasions@comcast.net
berkswomen2women.com 13
W2W Events
2014–2015 HAPPENINGS…
PATH2PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT New this fall! Our Mentoring Initiative Evolves to Path2Personal Development KICK-OFF
WOMEN2KNOW SPEAKER SERIES— For Inspiration Robin MK Shilling
Independent National Executive Director— Pampered Chef December 16, 2014 • 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Stokesay Castle • $20 Robin Shilling has been with The Pampered Chef for just over 25 years. She was one of three Directors named to the National Executive Director position when those positions were created in 2001. Identified as one of the quickest to move through the hierarchy of management levels, Robin attributes her success to leading by example. This philosophy carries through to everything she does including modeling this behavior for her children. When she started her business she was married with two children ages 3 and 8 months old. For most of her career she has been a single mother struggling to be a role model, a provider and accessible for her clients and children 24/7.
GROWTH2GO— For Education and Preparation BEYOND NETWORKING:
Become A Connector, Not A Collector
October 14, 2014 • 5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. Reading Country Club • $25 Once again, a panel of distinguished women will share their journeys and talk about the obstacles they faced and overcame and the decision points they encountered. The role that sponsors or mentors played along the way will also be explored. Their stories will inspire you and ignite interesting discussion around the paths they have taken on their personal journeys. Panelists include: • Mary Kay Bernosky, Executive Director — Berks Women in Crisis • Natalie M. Parisi, DDS, Orthodontist — Reading Orthodontic Group • Janice Luck, Head Women’s Basketball Coach, Co-Director of Athletics — Albright College • The Honorable Theresa Johnson, Judge — Berks County Court of Common Pleas
A MODEL FOR SUCCESSFUL INFLUENCE Paula Barron
Senior Vice President, Tompkins VIST Bank November 12, 2014 • 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence • FREE If learning to cope rather than learning to influence sounds like you, learn how to strengthen your own skills of influence and persuasion. Use these skills to enhance your personal and professional life in ways you never thought possible.
Nancy Dunleavy
Founder and CEO — Dunleavy & Associates November 18, 2014 • 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The Highlands at Wyomissing • $20 Magic happens when you are able to go beyond networking, and actually connect with others. Learn how to stop the cycle of merely collecting business cards and learn how the power of connecting can change your career and the world around you. Nancy is one of Philadelphia’s “Top 101 Connectors,” Philadelphia Business Journal Woman of Distinction and the owner of a top 100 woman-owned business. Her career as an entrepreneur was preceded by more than twenty years in the healthcare business, as a senior financial manager and hospital administrator.
To Join Women2Women, e-mail: W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org Plus, stay connected at: BerksWomen2Women.com • Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women • LinkedIn: Berks Women2Women Group
What thing about the ‘holidays’ do you look forward to all year long? And once they are upon us, what stresses you out the most? Complied by Heather Adams, Senior Sales & Marketing Manager, Santander Arena & Santander Performing Arts Center
Nan Reinert, Gibralter
I look forward to making all my gifts and get stressed out knowing I have to get them all done in time!
Sarah McKillip, West Lawn
Time off of work and not having my shopping done!
Kimberly Lally, Mohnton
I look forward to all of the cake/cupcake orders for Christmas but get stressed about delivering them due to the crazy holiday drivers!
Lisa Haupt, Mohrsville
Decorating the tree with the years of Hallmark ornaments I bought each of my kids every year so when they move out they will have their own collection of ornaments for their first tree, etc. Love the stories that go with them; having equal amount of gifts for my 4 kids.
Brandi Kohl, Akron
I look forward to spending the Holidays with my husband, kids and family, [my husband] doesn’t get many days off so it is something special to me. I stress over where to go with all the gifts and putting them together.
Candice Marie, Oley
Seeing my son’s face light up opening presents. Stressor is him (my son) telling me he doesn’t know what he wants!
Michelle Moore, Reading
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I LOVE Thanksgiving! Gathering around the dining room table with the ones I love most dearly, sharing the fellowship and passing down the value of family tradition to my granddaughter makes this holiday so special. It's not about the gifts money can buy but about love that is priceless. The stressful part for me is the grocery shopping!
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Shanon Sittler-Martin, Newmanstown
I look forward to our advent tradition of having our twins open a wrapped Christmas Book before bed each night, and reading it. The thing that stresses me out the most is my desire to see and enjoy everyone in my family, and not having enough time to do it.
Wray Millas Sargent, Temple
Being together with family, eating good food. ....and, commercialism stresses me out.
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berkswomen2women.com 15
Growth2Go /
Finance, Mentoring & Education
The “New” SAT:
What Busy Moms Need To Know… And Other Thoughts on Admissions Testing
T
Sarah C. Reese Informed Educational Solutions
16 Women2Women Fall 2014
he college admissions process hits parents hard during the tough adolescent years, adding a complex task at the tail end of the difficult job of raising teenagers. The new SAT, hitting the streets in the spring of 2015, appears from this vantage point to potentially simplify college testing, and ease parental anxiety, though it is not expected to be an easier test. First, the scoring on the new test goes back to the old 1,600-point scale with which many of us are so familiar, with the highest scores of 800 in math and on what will now be called “evidence-based reading and writing.” The essay is no longer required, and will only be chosen by students with a particular strength in this area. (I suspect the most selective colleges might require it, as they do the ACT with writing.) The new SAT seeks to align itself with the Common Core—to test “a core set of knowledge and skills that are essential for readiness, access, and success in college,” according to David Coleman, president of the College Board. In this way, it is sounding quite a bit more like the ACT, which tests school subject-based skills. Students will have heard that the new SAT’s vocabulary will no longer test knowledge of “esoteric words,” but rather will assess knowledge of words that are commonly used in college courses, like “empirical” and “reductive.” Parents need to know that high school grades are the best indicator of college success, and are far more predictive of success than standardized test scores. Parents can check www.FairTest.com to find a list of colleges that are score-optional, meaning students may
choose whether they wish to submit test scores, without prejudice, as part of their applications at these institutions. Chris Boehm, Director of Admission at Albright, a FairTest college, commented, “85% of applicants submit scores. Of those, 95% submit SATs and 20% submit ACTS [some students submit both, hence the over 100 percent total]. The SAT is reinvented every 6 to 8 years, so it will be interesting to see how colleges and universities treat the new SAT. Without previous data, how can a college or university claim that a test is a valid and reliable predictor of college success?” In my educational consulting practice, I’ve seen some colleges look past weak testing in the face of a strong transcript of courses and grades. A recent client had rather low SAT and ACT scores, but exemplary grades, courses, activities and citizenship. She was accepted at six out of seven of the colleges on her list, including
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University of Delaware and Gettysburg, but turned down at Penn State. (A caveat to this would be the “most competitive” category of colleges where lower scores generally will knock a student out of contention, even with an excellent curriculum and grades.) SAT scores impact more than admissions. When it comes to funding, students looking for merit scholarships will also need compelling SAT/ACT scores, along with strong grades, to win significant non-need grants. Most parents are keenly aware of test prep, and may feel pressured to have their children prepare for the ACT and SAT. The new SAT seeks to reduce the dependency on test prep by providing free online test prep. Many educators, like myself, are skeptical that the test prep industry’s importance will be reduced any time soon. (Locally, group test prep is available at Penn State Berks during the school year and in the summer. Often high school teachers offer out-of-school test prep, as well.)
berkswomen2women.com 17
Growth 2Go
The Difference Between
Mentor
and
Sponsor
A conversation with Michele Richards, Senior Vice President—Fulton Bank
How does one go about gaining a sponsor?
Michele recommends that you be strategic in looking for a sponsor. Essentially you want access to their contacts and the people in their network. If the sponsor is someone in your workplace, you want to look for someone who has the authority to assign you projects that stretch you, and potentially advance you in your career. Look beyond your immediate circle of mentors and managers. In a larger organization, look for someone two levels above you. Smaller organizations look to the president or founder. The idea is to increase your exposure in the company. Michele participated in a lot of committees which equaled increased exposure. She eventually joked with her sponsor and said “enough committees!”
What are the factors that keep you accountable to the sponsor?
Sponsor relationship is a two way street. By asking your sponsor to make a commitment you owe them loyalty and delivery on performance. Your contribution should reflect positively on the sponsor. Once you have demonstrated that, you can be trusted.
Did you have a mentor prior to a sponsor?
Ways to Find a Sponsor: 1. Build on a mentoring relationship. 2. Identify higher-ups who inspire you. 3. Whenever possible, let a potential sponsor see you in action. 4. Suggest improvements in the way things get done. 5. Ask. Exerpt from Got a mentor? Good. Now find a sponsor by Anne Fisher, Fortune.
18 Women2Women Fall 2014
Unknowingly Michele had a mentor and a sponsor at different times in her career. What’s an easy way to distinguish Mentorship was important earlier on in her career. Her sponsor relationship was much between a mentor and a sponsor? A mentor is more about professional devel- more important to her career advancement. opment—they offer you counseling, advice and guidance. They may help you navigate Can you have multiple sponsors; through the workplace. is it beneficial? A sponsor acts. They make you more visible Perhaps you may have a sponsor at work and to leaders in the company and their centers for one in your community role. But it may not influence in the community. Sponsors connect be beneficial to have multiple sponsors as you you to career opportunities and open doors. might in mentors. It might be cumbersome They essentially make introductions and they and they may have competing agendas. are making an investment in the employee.
What are the benefits of sponsorship?
Michele gives back: Now in her own way A sponsor will give you career traction she is a formal mentor in the Fulton program. and create opportunities. People who have Eventually, she would like to have the opportunity sponsors have shared that they feel that they to serve as a sponsor. For Michele she realized have made more progress in their careers than that after mentoring it was a natural progression their coworkers that have not had sponsors. to sponsorship.
Growth 2Go Define your competitive advantage. What will make you different? What will be the compelling reason for people to buy from you rather than someone else? Establish your differentiator…price, quality, product features, customer service, innovation…whatever it is be relentless about building your business model around the differentiator and focus on being sure that differentiator is coming across in everything you do—it then becomes your brand; the reason people do business with you. Recruit competent, relevant advisors. Even at the beginning you will benefit greatly from advice from legal, accounting, costing, marketing, advertising, location, facility design, IT, packaging, and other experts. Consider the cost of advice as an investment, not an expense, and build your team with advisors you trust.
Tips for Starting a Business
Use the abundant community resources available to start up and early stage businesses. Get to know the Chamber of Commerce, SCORE, the Kutztown University Small Business Development Center, the Jump Start Incubator, the Greater Reading Economic Partnership, the Ben Franklin Partnership, the City of Reading and County of Berks Economic Development services, and many others. The resources are extensive. Don’t feel you need to go it alone—these organizations exist to help small businesses. Starting a business can be thrilling and unnerving at the same time. The rewards can be huge and fulfilling. Improve your odds for success by preparing well. Berks County is a great place to start a business. Good luck.
T
he American Dream of owning a business is alive and well. The opportunities to achieve working independence, financial stability, freedom of creative expression, and much more are plentiful. However, starting a business is not for the faint of heart. The statistics about the high failure rate for new businesses are sobering, and not generally reported. But also sobering are the number of small businesses that avoid failure but limp along, often for many years, barely surviving and leaving the owner frustrated about never being able to turn the corner to financial success and the other wonderful aspects of owning a business that drive us to start a business in the first place. Like with many things in life, smart preparation will improve the odds of success for a new business. Following are some tips for starting a business…most are oldies but goodies, and proven time after time to be helpful for getting a new business off to a great start. Develop a business plan with targets and goals—both quantitative and qualitative. Your business plan is your roadmap and tracking your progress against a handful of targets and goals allows you to determine where you need to take corrective action and where to apply your efforts. Secure adequate funding. A top reason for business failure is a lack of adequate funding at the onset. Do a realistic cash flow projection and make sure you have funding to support the business. Do you know you can grow yourself out of business?
Wish It. Dream It. Do It.
Ray Melcher, Director—Jump Start Incubator
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berkswomen2women.com 19
Work2Life /
Balancing Life, Work & Family
Area Educator Credits Advanced Degrees
for Enabling Job Satisfaction, Fulfillment Susan Shelly
S
hirley Feyers has always had a passion for teaching children. “I’ve always considered it a privilege to teach,” said Feyers. “During the past 30 years I’ve had the privilege of teaching children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 15 years old.” As she was teaching young children, Feyers pursued her own advanced education, earning a master’s degree in education and eventually completing the Principal Certification program at Alvernia University. She currently serves as principal at Mount Penn Elementary School. The work and expense of the advanced degrees while working and raising a family was tedious, she said, but well worth the effort in that it has allowed her to attain a higher level of employment and realize greater influence and satisfaction in her work. “Without my degrees, I would not be where I am today,” Feyers said. “Working in a classroom impacts children daily, but after obtaining my Principal Certification I impact not just 20 to 25 children in my room, but 480 students in the building. I have the opportunity to assist teachers, staff and parents in helping to guide our future tomorrow.” The Principal Certification program at Alvernia prepares future educational leaders to interact successfully with students, teachers, parents, school board members and the community at large. The program was developed to reflect the general standards and specific guidelines prescribed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. It is also accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
20 Women2Women Fall 2014
Feyers said she chose Alvernia for several reasons, including the flexibility it offered for working professionals, its convenient location and the hands-on attention she received from staff and faculty members. She combined evening, weekend and online classes to complete the program. “I had attended many universities and never have worked with a college that treated each person as a unique individual and made accommodations to classes and schedules so that it would work for you,” Feyers said. While she acknowledges the professional and economic values of the advanced degrees she’s earned, Feyers said she did not pursue them only to advance her career and earnings, an attitude that directly correlates with Alvernia University’s goal of fostering broadly educated lifelong learners. It is necessary for her to continue learning in order to continue to grow in her career and best serve the children, Feyers said.
“Education should never stop,” she said. “I need to continue to learn and grow myself in order to provide the best educational experience for our young children.” Feyer’s primary motivation for advancing her own education was simply to become a better, more effective teacher. While there is ongoing debate over the value of master’s degrees in education, there is evidence that more jobs in general are requiring that applicants have at least an undergraduate degree to be considered and, increasingly, a master’s degree. Boston labor analytics firm Burning Glass Technologies revealed in September that 65 percent of postings for executive secretaries and executive assistants—jobs that traditionally were filled by workers with high school degrees—now require a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree also has become desirable and often necessary for nurses, a field which previously did not require a degree. And many
employers are requiring degrees for positions such as dental hygienists, cargo agents and claims adjusters. Employers increasingly view applicants who have earned at least a bachelor’s degree as being more invested in their careers. And employees who possess graduate-level degrees are viewed as having superior problem-solving, critical-thinking and technical skills. Burning Glass reports that more than 20 percent of open job positions in the United States require or prefer applicants to have graduate degrees. Meanwhile, only about 11 percent of the population has earned an advanced degree. Master’s programs such as those at Alvernia University that offer flexible class schedules and allow for some or all online participation are viewed as innovative and grounded in the professional workplace, enabling participants who are already engaged in their careers to earn advanced degrees. Advanced degrees in education and other fields not only result in greater job satisfac-
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tion, but have economic benefits, as well. A 2012 analysis by the Federal Reserve revealed that workers who have advanced degrees were earning on average 30 percent more than those with bachelor’s degrees. And the unemployment rate in 2013 for individuals who had earned a master’s degree was only 3.4 percent, compared to 6.1 percent of all workers, according to U.S. Department of Labor statistics. For Feyers, earning an advanced degree was about keeping herself at the forefront of her field and fulfilling her own potential in her career of service as an educator. She
“Without my degrees, I would not be where I am today.” said Alvernia professors, many of whom were working in education as well as teaching, provided real-time information that helped to prepare her to be a principal.
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“I felt very prepared to begin working as an administrator upon completion of my certification,” Feyers said. Although the time and expense of earning an advanced degree can be demanding, Feyers said that working toward and advancing in a career that you love is extremely satisfying. “A lifetime of jobs will never enrich you, so strive to work in an area that you will love and always continue to reach for the stars,” Feyers said. To learn more about Alvernia University’s graduate degrees in education and other areas, go to www.alvernia.edu/academics/ graduate. To learn more about the University’s Pathways Partnership and Leadership Berks programs, which provide education, training and professional development opportunities within the greater community, go to www. alvernia.edu/partnerships.
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berkswomen2women.com 21
Work2Life
Inspired by
Susan Shelly
Path2Personal Development Kicks Off on October 14th
M
entoring is a time-honored and proven practice, long used in business environments to help young employees navigate and steer them to professional success. Mentoring also can be extremely valuable when applied to personal situations. Research has shown, however, that there is a shortage of female mentors, and that women who might benefit from having a mentor in the workplace do not always find that one is available. LinkedIn recently surveyed more than 1,000 women in professional careers and found that 20 percent said they never had a mentor at work. Women2Women recognizes the value of mentors and is working to raise awareness regarding the benefits of mentoring, and to
22 Women2Women Fall 2014
provide opportunities for women to connect, collaborate and support one another. Through its Path2Personal Development program, Women2Women is committed to continuing its mentoring initiative, and work to connect women of all ages and in all careers. This year’s Path2Personal Development program kicks off on Tuesday, October 14, from 5–8 p.m. at the Reading Country Club, with a panel discussion during which four distinguished Berks County women will share their journeys and thoughts on career advancement, mentoring, facing obstacles, where they find inspiration and other important and relevant topics. Participants in the panel discussion are: M. Theresa Johnson, Judge of the Berks County Court of Common Pleas; Janice Luck,
co-director of athletics and head women’s basketball coach at Albright College; Mary Kay Bernosky, executive director of Berks Women in Crisis; and Dr. Natalie Parisi, an orthodontist with Reading Orthodontic Group in Wyomissing. W2W Magazine caught up with these busy, influential women and asked them some questions about their lives, careers, and experience with mentors and mentoring. We also asked for their best advice to young women or any age woman looking to advance in her career while maintaining a balanced and satisfying personal life. Some of their answers are shared, below. Readers should plan to attend the panel discussion on October 14 to learn more.
You are a prominent member of our community and a role model for other women. Can you summarize what has been your life path and tell us how it’s brought you to where you are today?
When she joined her father’s practice in 1995, she was the only female dental specialist in Berks County, and discovered there were many challenges in being a young, single female in a male-dominated profession. Parisi found a niche in teaching and lecturing to large groups on issues related to dentistry and orthodontics, and she also joined many professional organizations. “The lecturing and getting involved in organized orthodontics has led to many opporNatalie Parisi, or Dr. Nat as she is known tunities and leadership positions,” Parisi said. at Reading Orthodontic Group, is the seventh M. Theresa Johnson’s path to being elected of nine children who grew up in Wyomissing. Judge of the Court of Common Pleas was She said she was a good student and a good not a straight one. athlete, and was encouraged to choose her Johnson graduated from Penn State own path. University in 1983 with a bachelor’s degree “My parents guided us gently and encouraged in rehabilitation, but had already realized us to do well in whatever we chose, but they while completing an internship during her never put excessive pressure on us to choose senior year that she did not want to be a a particular path,” Parisi said. physical therapist. The path Parisi chose was to follow in her She moved back to her home in North father’s footsteps and become an orthodontist. Carolina for several months and then joined Like her father and seven of her siblings, she attended Villanova University. Continued on page 24
Natalie Parisi
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berkswomen2women.com 23
Work2Life
Theresa Johnson
a college roommate in Washington, D.C., where she had what she described as a series of “odd jobs” over several years. Eventually, she applied for and was accepted into law school, during which time she interned with the Berks County District Attorney Office. She was hired by that office after graduating from law school in 1994, but left in 1998 to join a private law firm. Two years later she rejoined the DA’s office as a Special Assistant United States Attorney in charge of the highly successful and lauded Reading Area Special Assistant Task Force. When money that had funded the task force ran out, Johnson returned to private practice, but when John Adams ran and was elected as District Attorney in 2008, she returned again to that office as First Assistant District Attorney. The rest, as you probably know, is history. “In 2013 I pursued a dream and successfully ran for Judge of the Court of Common Pleas,” Johnson said.
Have you ever had a mentor? If so, what are the most important lessons you learned from him or her? A former standout player on the team, Janice Luck realized her dream when she was hired as head coach of Albright College’s women’s basketball team. She also is the college’s Co-Director of Athletics. While Luck said she has had many mentors, both in her life and her work, her most important mentor has been her father. “He has taught me that you can do anything you set out to do,” Luck said. “Hard work and perseverance are the only ways to reach your goals. He taught me to never stop working toward my goals, and to always believe that those goals would become realities.” Mary Kay Bernosky worked as an attorney for 15 years before realizing that her passion was for working in the field of domestic
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24 Women2Women Fall 2014
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violence/sexual assault. She has been mentored and inspired by a woman named Sally Casey, who is the executive director of Schuylkill Women in Crisis. “Sally was the person who initially encouraged me to seek an opportunity to lead a non-profit agency,” Bernosky said. “Over the past 10 years she’s been there to encourage, advise and support me
through some difficult challenges, both professionally and personally.” Non-profit work, especially that which deals with abuse and violence, can have a high burn-out rate, but Bernosky has learned from Casey how to persevere through difficult times. “Sally has been leading SWIC for 31 years now, and she’s seen it through its growth and the difficult challenges of the last 10 years,” Bernosky said. “Through it all, she has maintained her passion for what she does. And, I think that is extraordinary.”
How important is it to leverage personal relationships to help you learn and grow within your professional endeavors?
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Personal relationships are crucial in your professional careers, Janice Luck said. Having a network not only helps you to move and advance through your profession, it provides people who can give you guidance and advice. Continued on page 26 berkswomen2women.com 25
Work2Life Luck said she has used personal relationships to both advance her own career and the careers of others. “The more people you know, the more places you can go,” she said. Mary Kay Bernosky has learned that every relationship offers opportunities to learn and to grow, especially during periods of change, which are inevitable. “It’s really important that you have the support of those who you know will be there, even when things go wrong. That gives you the confidence to take the risks necessary to grow.”
What advice would you give to women who are looking to expand their paths of growth and opportunity?
Janice Luck
“I try to meet as many people as I can, everywhere I go,” she said. “You never know when you will need them, or they will need you.”
and opportunities, she said, even if you don’t know what they will bring. “Some might not be what you think, but some might be a whole lot more,” she said. Finally, she advised, do the right thing, and do it right. Everyone needs a go-to person, M. Theresa Johnson advised. “Find someone who is going to be your cheerleader and who will tell you when you are out of line,” Johnson said. “Someone who will listen when you just need to have a meltdown, and then say ‘Enough is enough, now you need to keep moving forward.’”
Natalie Parisi advises that women prepare themselves well by getting the education they will need, and to continue learning throughout their lives. Be open to possibilities
Save the Date
Join us on October 14th as we take a look at these women who are excited to share with you how they became successful in their chosen careers. You too can follow your dreams and be inspired by success! To find out how to get tickets for the panel discussion, visit the Berks Women2Women website at www.berkswomen2women.com or call 610-376-6766.
WE SPARK… Insight. Engagement. Influence. One of the best gifts you can give others is your own personal & professional development.
Celebration of Peace Marking 38 years of providing safety, life, and hope to victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault
December 15, 2014 6-8pm Yashek Social Hall Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom Tickets $75 Voices for Change Awards will be presented to:
Douglas Rauch, Esq. Tracy Schott Call us at 610-373-1206, or email peace@berkswomenincrisis.org for more information or to request an invitation.
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26 Women2Women Fall 2014
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Work2Life
Bridge2Better
It starts with a story.
Terri Simmons RTC Direct Mailing, Inc.
A
woman fell down a hole and called for help. A pastor walking by said he would pray for her and kept on walking. The woman didn’t give up; she called out to the next person passing. It was a doctor who kindly wrote her a prescription and tossed it into the hole. Frustration mounting, the woman called out once again as a friend was passing by. The friend jumped into the hole with her. Astounded, the woman asked, “What are you doing? How are we both going to get out of here?” Her friend said, “I’ve been down this hole before and I know the way out. Follow me.” This author has been in what most would call “one of the most stressful events of your life”…divorce. I was fortunate. The support of my family and friends helped to keep my stress at a minimum as I coped with the legal process and faced the many changes in my life. Unfortunately, I’ve met a lot of women who are not as lucky. They feel stuck trying to navigate through the emotional turmoil while struggling with all the decisions that need to be made during this time. Questions and fears surface immediately. “Is what I’m experiencing normal? How do I communicate with my ex…and my kids? Should I buy, sell or rent? How do I get back into the
workforce?” The questions are as long as a run-on sentence. But I didn’t think I could help until I had made a career change to become a financial advisor. That decision ignited a passion to empower other divorced women by connecting them with various professionals in our community to answer their questions…and help them get out of the hole.
“I’ve been down this hole before and I know the way out. Follow me.”
In the Spring of 2014, 10 professional women volunteered their time to meet with seven women in various stages of divorce
under the name Bridge2Better. The intention was to educate, address questions and provide access to experts in the community who could guide them through some of the tougher issues. One of the women had been going through her divorce for more than four years, and it was finalized during our sessions. She wished that our group had come along a couple of years earlier. It would have been that much more helpful to her. The highlight for her was the Dream Session led by Karen Kramer, which walked everyone through the process of creating goals, developing steps to achieve them and finding a partner to hold you accountable for your progress. Another woman was pretty far along in her divorce, but wishes she had known more when she was going through her situation. She had felt blindsided and shell-shocked. And, although she eventually found a new life and is much happier, she would have benefitted by utilizing the resources earlier on. Another participant felt that the session on bankruptcy was extremely helpful because with this knowledge she knew to alert her attorney to her separated husband’s ongoing Continued on page 28 berkswomen2women.com 27
Work2Life
bankruptcy, which then changed their legal strategy. She felt all of the sessions that she attended provided sound, practical information. With the feedback that we received from our ‘Spring chicks,’ we have tweaked our Fall session with seminars starting on September 20th, and will run for four consecutive Saturdays.
The first session covered: Budgeting; Navigating Divorce: How to Minimize your Attorney Costs and Maximize your Experience and What you’re experiencing is Normal; Second session covered: Home Buying, Selling Renting; Bankruptcy; and Managing Stress; Third session topics included: How to get Back into the Workforce; Alimony/
Spousal Support; and How to Communicate Effectively with your ex; The final session wraps up with Financial Planning; Child Custody; and How to Talk to Your Children, Young and Old. If there is interest, we will offer a separate Dream Session to inspire everyone to look forward. Anonymity is a priority and facilitators may consider audio recording in the future to allow for on-line listening. The Fall Series is a part of Boscov’s OffCampus seminars. All of the sessions will be held at Boscov’s North, beginning at 10 a.m. and ending at 12:45 p.m. The series is free. Spring sessions will be held in March and April 2015. Reservations can be made by calling Boscov’s at 610-779-2000 ext. 2 for North. The Courtesy Desk at the North location will also accept reservations. Anyone interested in more information should contact Sharon Mast at sharon@sparkss.com.
Only $25 †
FALL FORUM Wednesday, October 15th 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1741 Papermill Rd, Wyomissing, PA 19610 7:30 a.m. Breakfast 8:15 a.m. Keynote Speaker: Chris Martin 9:00 a.m. Q&A Session with Chris* 9:30 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. Break-Out Sessions (sessions will run twice) Considering an Advisory Board? Learn From the Experts Taking Emotion Out of Conflict Resolution I Just Can’t Relate! Managing Generational Differences Entrepreneurial Leadership – Managing vs. Leading
Register online at GreaterReadingChamber.org or call 610.376.6766
*Chris will also sign guitars – if attendees own a Martin Guitar, they are welcome to bring it to be signed by Chris.
Approximately 65% of businesses in the US are family-owned and operated and Berks County is no exception! In addition to working in an ever changing business climate, family-owned companies face a host of unique challenges that often complicate the day to day running of the business. Berks Family Business Alliance was created to address these pressing issues, helping businesses find solutions to the complex, unique issues that families working together often struggle to overcome. Our Mission: “Providing Resources and Support for Family Businesses.” Primary Sponsor: National Penn Major Sponsors: Kozloff Stoudt Attorneys, Murray Securus, RKL, and WFM †Program costs underwritten by our sponsors Program Sponsor: Mosteller & Associates
28 Women2Women Fall 2014
Health2 Wellness
Mental, Spiritual, Physical Health & Wellness
Alzheimer’s Disease Karen J. Gurski, MD, FACOG Specializing in: Gynecology—St. Joseph Medical Center
W
here did I park the car? Did I turn off the stove? Where did I place those keys? Do I know you? How many times have we all asked ourselves these simple questions? Fortunately, for many of us, we do eventually recall the information. However, an estimated 5 million Americans will not remember as they are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Every 67 seconds, another American develops Alzheimer’s disease. Information and education about Alzheimer’s disease is particularly important for women, as nearly two-thirds of those with Alzheimer’s disease (3.2 million) are women. To put this in perspective, women in their 60s are about two times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than breast cancer. One in six women compared to one in 10 men who live to be at least age 55 will develop Alzheimer’s disease in their remaining lifetime. Until recently, scientists believed this was because women live longer. Biologic, hormonal, genetic, and even cultural influences appear to play a role. Although age may be the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, the cause or causes are likely multifactorial. Genetics account for a small percent, but can cause early-onset Alzheimer’s, sometimes in
individuals as young as 30. There has been some data to suggest that women compared to men with the same genetic risk factor are more susceptible to the disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. In Alzheimer’s disease, as in other types of dementia, increasing numbers
of nerve cells (neurons) deteriorate and die. A healthy adult brain has approximately 100 billion neurons with branching arms connecting at points called synapses. Neurons talk with each other by flow of information at these synapses. In Alzheimer’s disease, the Continued on page 30 berkswomen2women.com 29
Health 2Wellness transfer of information or function of the synapses begins to fail, followed by loss of the number of synapses, and eventually cell death. The destruction and death of neurons and synapses causes the memory failure, personality changes, problems in carrying out daily activities, and other features of the disease. Alzheimer’s disease can affect different people in different ways, but the most common symptom begins with gradually worsening ability to remember new information. This is because the neuron damage in the brain begins in regions involving formation of new memories. As damage spreads, there is progression from this mild cognitive impair- 24/7 care. Currently, there is no cure and ment to confusion, inability to verbalize, Alzheimer’s disease is ultimately fatal. Although families generally prefer to keep inappropriate behavior, and disorientation. This can lead to unsafe wandering. With the affected person at home as long as possible, advanced disease, people need help with all of most people with the disease eventually need their activities of daily living, such as bathing, more assistance than families can provide or dressing, toileting, and eating. Those in the sustain and will be transferred to a nursing final stages of the disease lose their ability to home or other skilled facility. All caregivers communicate at all, fail to recognize loved of people with Alzheimer’s face a devastating ones and become bed-bound and reliant on toll. In 2013, 15 million family and friends
Be the role model she’ll always remember. girlscouts.org/volunteer
30 Women2Women Fall 2014
provided 18 billion hours of unpaid care estimated at a cost of $220 billion. Nearly 60% of caregivers rate the stress of caregiving as very high, resulting in high levels of stress and depression. About 30% of family caregivers have symptoms of depression. Due to the high level of stress, the caregiver is more likely to have reduced immune function, new hypertension and heart disease, faster aging process and death.
Information & Support Services: Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center
800.438.4380 • www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s Association & Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter (24 hour helpline) 800.272.3900 • www.alz.org/delval Children of Aging Parents 800.227.7294 • www.caps4caregivers.org
CREATING A COMMUNITY OF SURVIVORS — You’re not alone
More than 3 in 5 Alzheimer’s caregivers are women, who provide 24-hour a day care for someone with Alzheimer’s. Among women caregivers who also work, at least 20% have gone from working full time to part time because of their caregiving duties. These caregivers will be more likely to have to turn down promotions, reduce work hours or quit work, resulting in loss of finances and benefits. The financial and emotional impact of Alzheimer’s caregiving can last long after the death of the person with the disease. Caregivers need support through the various stages of the disease. Many programs are available to provide help, education, daycare, and respite. These support services continue to increase given the increasing number of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, now the 6th leading cause of death in the United States.
Honoring 20 Years of Service to Berks 1994–2014
Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks provides hope, information and emotional support to people affected by breast cancer.
• Pink Power Night Support Groups • Support Groups for Newly Diagnosed Women • BCSS YSC Face2Face for Young Survivors • El Poder del Rosado for Spanish speaking women
Office: 610.478.1447 | Survivor Support Line: 610.375.9925 529 Reading Ave., Suite C, West Reading, PA 19611 Find our current programs and events at bcssberks.org
Eldercare Locator 800-677-1116 • www.eldercare.gov Since there is no effective treatment or cure, there is an emerging field focusing on prevention. More evidence suggests that brain health is closely linked to the health of the heart and blood vessels. Thus, control of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity may be critical. Regular physical exercise may have a role in maintaining cognitive health. Some data also suggests that regular brain exercise (eg. Word Searches, Sudoku, Lumosity), a robust social interaction, and ongoing mental stimulation may help. Women are at the epicenter of this disease. Not only are more women diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, but also more women are affected as primary caregivers. I can tell you this because Alzheimer’s is personal to me. My father had early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and died from this disease. As he deteriorated, so did my mother as his primary caregiver. The emotional and physical exhaustion caused her to have worsening hypertension, stroke and kidney failure. She now has cognitive impairment and requires 24/7 skilled nursing care. Alzheimer’s disease didn’t just affect one person, it touched an entire family. Finding help and support along this journey has been and is challenging at times. I encourage women to educate themselves about the causes, implications, prevention, and wide-ranging long term effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Reference: 2014 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, www.alz.org/facts
berkswomen2women.com 31
Health 2Wellness
MOVEMBER Moustache Movement Julia Nickey, Director, Patient & Organizational Engagement, St. Joseph Regional Health Network
St. Joseph Regional Health Network’s Cancer Center is having a FREE PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING event Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2014 • 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the St. Joseph Cancer Center, Medical Office Building, 2494 Bernville Road, Reading
H
To register, please call the Oncology Outreach Office at 610-378-2602.
ave you noticed how a lot of men are sporting the mustache come November? While some of them may still be man-crushing on Magnum, P.I., the majority are raising awareness and funds for men’s health. Prostate cancer and testicular cancer are the top health concerns during “Movember,” the term coined for the month of November that is dedicated to men’s health. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 15% of men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point during their lifetime. For testicular cancer, approximately 0.4% will be diagnosed during their lifetime. Just Google “Movember” and you see many websites dedicated to education, campaigns, and products for the moustache movement. Although this is a month dedicated to men’s health, women play a very important role. Encourage the men in your life to take their health seriously by understanding their family history, knowing the symptoms, talking with their family physician, and deciding if testing is the right thing to do. Oh, and don’t make fun of his moustache, it’s for a good cause!
32 Women2Women Fall 2014
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Health 2Wellness
Threats to Women’s Health:
❶ Heart Disease ❷ Cancer ❸ Stroke ❹ COPD (Emphysema & chronic bronchitis) ❺ Alzheimer’s Disease ❻ Diabetes ❼ Kidney Disease ❽ Blood Poisoning-Septicemia ❾ Anxiety disorders/ Depression ❿ Osteoporosis
List compiled from Everyday Health, Fox News, Office on Women’s Health, Del Mar Times and Hopkins Medicine.
Want to be an Advertiser in the next issue?
FALL 2014
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Health 2Wellness
Prenuptial Agreements—
The End of a Good Relationship? Latisha Bernard Schuenemann, Esquire Leisawitz Heller Abramowitch Phillips, P.C.
M
arriage and the days leading up to your wedding are supposed to be a happy and exciting time. You are busy finding the perfect wedding dress, booking the caterer, florist, photographer, selecting invitations and finalizing every detail. But the time is often plagued with high levels of stress, aggravation and arguments. If one more thing goes wrong, you are going to snap. Then you hear it. The dreaded “P” word…Prenuptial Agreement. This isn’t something you likely thought about or thought would be an issue, especially not just weeks prior to your big day. A prenuptial
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34 Women2Women Fall 2014
agreement is like the ex-boyfriend that no one wants to talk about and makes everyone feel uncomfortable. Some people are offended by the thought of being asked to sign a prenuptial agreement. Sometimes people are pressured by family members to have a prenuptial agreement—your parents who disapprove of your marriage perhaps or the fact there are financial assets that someone wants to protect. In many instances, a prenuptial agreement is the last thing to be discussed and is executed very close to the date of marriage. Prenuptial agreements have a bad reputation. They have been known to terminate relationships and pending weddings. However, these agreements can be very beneficial. Too often they are viewed solely as “I’m not willing to share my stuff” documents. But the truth is a prenuptial agreement can mean the opposite. In fact, they can say whatever you want them to say. Prenuptial agreements can be beneficial because they allow you to set financial expectations early in a relationship and provide for what happens as a result of death or divorce. The law requires there be full and financial disclosure of each person’s assets in a prenuptial agreement. By doing so, the parties know each other’s assets and debts prior to marriage and can eliminate future arguments over assets and finances in the event of a divorce. For some these agreements help protect current assets, including any business interests and any future growth of these assets. For example, if you have a substantial retirement fund or a successful business prior to marriage, you may want to protect its current value and its future growth in the event of a divorce. But you may also want to describe how it will be divided if there is a divorce.
If you have children from a prior relationship or marriage, prenuptial agreements allow you to pass assets to your children without interference from your spouse. Prenuptial agreements often have provisions that allow your spouse to waive certain rights he or she would have under the law, e.g. to elect against your will, alimony, spousal support, and retirement benefits. With the right provisions in a prenuptial agreement, you can protect your estate plan and your children’s future inheritance. Prenuptial agreements also can protect your future inheritance. If one of you expects to receive a substantial gift or inheritance, prenuptial agreements can specifically exclude this money from the definition of marital property at the time of divorce.
Every moment is a gift
During the month of October, PANDORA will make a donation from the sales of select jewelry to support the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.® and its mission: To help women now and inspire hope to those affected by breast cancer. PANDORA is a proud sponsor of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). Join us as we help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.
Prenuptial agreements can outline what payments will be made to a spouse in the event of death or divorce. For example, there are often provisions requiring life insurance policies to be purchased that benefit a spouse. The agreement can also describe how the marital residence will be handled if it is owned and financed by one spouse. Prenuptial agreements should not be viewed as the “other woman” that could potentially break up your relationship. Consider them as an opportunity to formalize both parties’ expectations. You should discuss a prenuptial agreement with your loved one early and seek legal counsel to discuss what provisions are warranted for your specific situation. Doing so permits you to focus on your big day and be ready for whatever else may be thrown at you.
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berkswomen2women.com 35
Health 2Wellness
Culinary the
classroom
By Phoebe Canakis Owner, Phoebe’s Pure Foods
W
hen stepping into Linda Bell’s The Culinary Classroom, the first thing you’ll notice won’t be anything visual. I mean, there is a gorgeous island (more like a cooking runway), freshly cut flowers, cucumber water and a plate of cheese and crackers. And, let’s not overlook the rustic farm table laid out with the evening’s course work and neatly folded aprons. But, it’s the scent that will seduce you. You don’t need to be a kitchen queen to know there is some kind of magic happening in this cooking classroom space. The scent may unconsciously remind you of your grandmother’s kitchen. It reminded me of my aunt’s kitchen where recipes were spun with tedious attention to detail…a gift to a table full of family and an experience to be savored. I knew, in deep breath, what was about to happen in this culinary classroom was going to be exceptional and memorable. With so many cooking classes popping up, it’s Linda’s training, roots in tradition, commitment to whole foods and teaching experience that makes her style unique. As fellow students Bonnie and Chad Zerbe noted: “It takes a wonderful educator to balance 36 Women2Women Fall 2014
Linda Bell
part was sitting down and enjoying a great dinner with wonderful people.” the complexities of According to Linda, “our lives are so fastcooking while making it paced, we need to make time to appreciate approachable to the home cook.” food of good quality and learn how to preA classroom approach is what you’ll get. pare it! If I can help people start to live this Down to the well-prepared packet of recipes, day-to-day, I feel that I am doing what I am which open right up to a pop-quiz. Yup, a meant to do!” pop quiz! What a perfect way to assess your Linda peppered her instruction with her skill level and to engage you in a way you family’s regional style of cooking. (In case you didn’t know, all Italian cooking is not are sure to learn something new. equal. Don’t believe me? Just ask your 1st or You’ll walk away from the class feeling like 2nd generation Italian friend or neighbor.) Linda’s long-time friend Michele Masley, who Prior to class Michele reminisced about said she gained “important organizational Linda’s journey. skills that make the process so much easier. “Linda would always talk of her wish to It’s just an overall sense of accomplishment.” see everyone enjoying themselves as she Or maybe you’ll relate to Maria Walker, who cooked, trying new recipes and sharing her found the hands-on work with recipes easy enough for the home cook where “the best home with others. Fortunately for all of us
Michael Bell (left) and Hugh Shober (right)
who have been to one of her classes, she is living her dream.” Michele’s story created my expectation for the evening and made me a bit curious about how it all began for Linda. Continued on page 38
Weddings, Engagement, Maternity, Newborns, Families, Senior Portraits 610.568.8245
MariaStamy@gmail.com
MariaStamyPhotography.smugmug.com
berkswomen2women.com 37
Health 2Wellness
WE_QtrPage_FINAL_W2W_Layout 1 2/19/14 7:56 AM Page 1
• Sweets and specialty foods • Pet supplies & treats •
It’s A Gift! is stocked with high-quality items perfect for special occasions or a bit of self-indulgence. Many of our items are unique, one of a kind and artisan made. We have an incredible selection of infant, children’s, women’s and home decor items. Thanks to the efforts of more than 60 dedicated volunteers, our nonprofit shop has been able to contribute the proceeds from our sales to local charities—many of which benefit women and children. A gift from the Woman’s Exchange is definitely a gift that gives twice!
720 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 | 610-373-0960 Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat. 10-6, Thurs. 10-7, Closed Sun. & Mon.
Christening gowns • Toys • Baby & toddler clothing •
Jewelry • Home décor • Wedding gifts •
Hostess gifts • Pottery • Pillows • Glassware 38 Women2Women Fall 2014
Linda’s 36-year career as a certified Reading Specialist in the Reading and Twin Valley school districts was center stage until retirement. Her love of learning and growth is so strong that recreating a new self as a culinary instuctor has been nothing but exciting and rewarding. So that she could teach she went to the best teachers to learn… another ‘character dish’ she brings to the table in addition to her passion. Linda may tell you the secret of her culinary success is her Italian heritage or travels to Italy but I think it’s more than that…her enthusiasm fuels her search for excellence. For the past three years she has been refining her skills through classes at The Institute of Culinary Education in Manhattan. Even though her first career in teaching has concluded, Linda still teaches…she just teaches with an apron now. The courage to take a leap and redefine who we are at any stage in our career is inspiring. Linda’s passion about ingredients and tried-and-true methods is unmistakable in her classes. The tantalizing scents, laughter, personalized instructions, and new friendships are all part of Linda’s culinary classroom success.
Do you want more for your child?
more
confidence
learning
love
John Paul II Center may be the answer! Here we provide a quality individualized academic, social, and religious program for children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. But there’s more, so much more!
Students thrive at John Paul II Center. They feel safe in the nurturing environment of a beautiful school dedicated to their well-being. They flourish in an atmosphere where the dignity of all learners is acknowledged and celebrated. They rise to the challenge to develop their talents and reach their God-given potential. What you’ll find at John Paul II: Educational programs for children ages 3-21. (Scholarships available) A faith-based alternative to public education, where students of all faiths are welcomed. State-of-the-art technology. Transportation available from most Berks County school districts and from Eastern Lancaster & Cocalico. Transition program.
610-777-0605 • Fax: 610-777-0682 • www.johnpauliicenter.org 1092 Welsh Rd., Shillington, PA 19607
So, roll up your sleeves, tie on an apron and find the confidence to join the experience by walking through dishes you may never have otherwise endeavored. Might I add, you’ll find yourself in the company of singles, couples, men, women, novice and well-seasoned cooks. The kitchen confidence you’ll gain is directly related to Linda’s instructional skills. And, who knows, you may also get a chance to meet her husband, Michael Bell, who adds his own flavor when time permits. I’ll be going back. Maybe we’ll see each other!
Article photography by Phoebe Canakis.
berkswomen2women.com 39
n
en en.net ne
WE ARE ™ COMFORT KEEPERS™ COMFORT KEEPERS Our Area’s Most “Trusted & Best Value”
Health 2Wellness Our Area’s Most “Trusted & Care Best Value” Source For In-Home Source For In-Home Care
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Allows Women to Just “Be” HELP IS HERE, TO PROVIDE HELP IS HERE, TO PROVIDE
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The truth is, caring for a loved one can quickly icture a more softly-lit space, full of can relaxing redBefore hues, it become oneforperson handle. The truthsmells, is, than caring a loved one canpicture quicklyit full sensuous and soft music. Now, becomesmore too much, callperson Comfort We provide than one canKeepers. handle. laughing, Before it ofbecome women —women are sharing stories, WE ARE an extensive rangewho of in-home, non-medical care becomes too much, call Comfort Keepers. We provide crying, reading, writing, creating, sewing, meditating, ™ thatextensive helps people maintain quality and independent COMFORT KEEPERS an range ofcan in-home, non-medical carehave or lives simply being. If youof imagine this, then you in the comfort their own home. More than that helps people maintain quality and independent Ourthe Area’s “Trusted & Best Value” just entered RedMost TentKeeper within your owncare mind. a caregiver, a Comfort provides and lives in the comfort ofFor their own home. More than Source In-Home Care Organized by the Reading Spiral Sisters, the Red Tent those who oftenprovides need it most. acompassion caregiver, atoComfort Keeper care and is an installation art piece blended with community compassion who often need it most. For almostto10those years, Comfort Keepers has provided outreach. It is installed in the vault at the T.E.A. Factory Berks County Seniors with cost effective rates for our For almost 10 years, Comfort KeepersAdult has provided located at 580 Willow Street in Reading. womservices by providing a declining hourly rate as more Berks County Seniors with cost effective rates for our service hours are scheduled. Our compassionate services by providing a declining hourly rate as more Caregivers areare carefully selected expertly trained service hours scheduled. Our & compassionate to respond to the unique needs of seniors who require Caregivers are carefully selected & expertly trained services to to remain in theneeds comfort of their who own require homes. to respond the unique of seniors services remain in the comfort of can theirprovide own homes. To findtoout how Comfort Keepers the kind of care that can make a difference in your home HELP IS HERE, TO PROVIDE Give parents To find out how Comfort Keepers canyour provide the and family, would be happyintoyour arrange a kind of care call that us. canWe make a difference home themore. dignity and free in-home visit to help you learn and family, call us. We would be happy to arrange a
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The truth is, caring for a loved one can quickly respect they become visit more than one person handle. Before it free Personal in-home to help youcan learn more. Care Services Companionship becomes too much, call Comfort Keepers. We provide deserve. WeCare can • Feeding • Light Housekeeping an extensive range of in-home, non-medical care provide 2-24 Personal Care Services Companionship Care that helps people maintain quality and independent • Ambulation • Recreational Activities hours ••Feeding • Light Housekeeping lives in the comfort of their own home. More than Oral Hygiene • Escort Appointments of todaily In-Home a caregiver, a Comfort Keeper• Recreational provides care and ••Ambulation Activities Incontinence Care • Laundry & Linen Washing compassion to those who often need it most. Care helping ••Oral Hygiene •• Escort to Appointments Grooming & Dressing Meal Planning & Preparation For almost 10 years, Comfort Keepers has provided ••Incontinence Care •• Laundry Linen Washing you& manage the Medication Assistance Grocery & Clothing Shopping Berks County Seniors with cost effective rates for our ••Grooming & /Dressing •• Meal Planning & Preparation Transferring Positioning Grooming & Dressing Guidance services by providing a declining hourly rate as more challenge of caring ••Medication Assistance • Grocery & Clothing Shopping Bathing (Bed, Tub, service hours are Shower) scheduled. Our compassionate • Transferring • Grooming &trained Dressing your lovedGuidance ones. Caregivers/ Positioning are carefully selected & for expertly Respite and 24/7ofCare • Bathing (Bed, to Tub, to respond theShower) unique needs seniorsServices who require services to remain in the comfort of their own homes. Respiteowned and 24/7 Care Services Over 550 independently and operated offices nationwide. To find out how Comfort Keepers can provide the kind of care that can make a difference in your home Over 550 independently owned and operated offices nationwide. and family, call us. We would be happy to arrange a For more information Call 610-678-8000 free in-home visit to help you learn more.
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for information a FREE Foror more For more information Companionship Care Consultation S Personal Care Services In-Home and a Feeding • Light Housekeeping or for aFREE FREE E •• Ambulation • Recreational Activities Call: 610-678-8000 Equal Opportunity Employer In-Home Consultation R • Oral Hygiene • Escort toIn-Home Appointments Consultation • Laundry & Linen Washing V • Incontinence Care Call: 610-678-8000 Equal & Opportunity Dressing Employer • Meal Planning & Preparation www.comfortkeepers.com/BerksCounty-PA I •• Grooming Medication Assistance • Grocery & Clothing Shopping C • Transferring / Positioning • Grooming & Dressing Guidance www.comfortkeepers.com/BerksCounty-PA E • Bathing (Bed, Tub, Shower) S Respite and 24/7 Care Services Over 550 independently owned and operated offices nationwide.
40 Women2Women Fall 2014
Equal Opportunity Employer
For more information or for a FREE In-Home Consultation
Call: 610-678-8000
en are welcome to enter the Red Tent during “open hours” in October and November, which consist of Mondays and Thursdays from 5–9 p.m., and Sundays from 1–4 p.m. “Special events” are also scheduled. Entrance is free, but donations are encouraged. The Red Tent is rooted in ancient history, and was a sacred place where women in a constant state of “doing” could go to just “be.” This Red Tent was built on the same framework. As mothers, caretakers, students, employees, employers, wives and more, women who enter will be encouraged to read, journal, rest, meditate, create pieces of art, talk, listen to themselves and others, and just “be.” The Red Tent will facilitate community building, information and resource exchange, nourishment, validation, and empowerment for women from every sector of the community. Please visit The Red Tent @ the T.E.A. Factory’s Facebook page or the T.E.A. Factory’s website (http://teafactoryco.com) for more information.
Health 2Wellness
Fall Recipes to warm your soul
Recipes contributed by Linda Bell, Owner & Instructor at The Culinary Classroom
Pommes Anna
Yield: 1 cake, 4 servings
This classic French Gratin layered potato cake is crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside. A slice of this potato cake is pure deliciousness. Hands down one of the best potato dishes you will ever make—and it only uses four ingredients! Yes, you do use butter—but hey, you aren’t eating this every day! (By the way, Anna was a French coquette in the court of Napoleon and the dish was created by a French culinary master in her honor!)
INGREDIENTS: 4 ounces clarified butter/ghee, melted 3 Yukon Gold potatoes or 2 Idaho potatoes Salt & Pepper
INSTRUCTIONS:
1.
Peel Idaho potatoes, Yukons do not need to be peeled. Cut potatoes into very thin slices, using a mandolin if possible. Keep the slices in cold water to prevent oxidization.
2. Pour a small amount of butter in the bottom of an 8-inch, non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron pan. 3. Thoroughly dry the potato slices between a clean kitchen towel. 4. Arrange the first layer of potatoes, overlapping starting in the center. Season with salt and pepper. 5. Continue layering potatoes starting each layer in the center and moving outward, quarter turns. Brush each layer with butter and lightly season with salt and pepper. 6. Pour remaining butter over the entire cake. Cook on high heat. When the edges look brown press down with a pot lid and drain the excess butter. Put back on stove for 1 minute and repeat. 7.
Bake uncovered in a 450 degree preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. Unmold the cake by giving the pan a gentle shake and sliding the cake onto a serving plate and serve immediately.
TIP: If you are not serving immediately, place on a baking rack on a baking pan. Loosely cover with foil and keep in a low heat oven (under 170 degrees) for 30 minutes. Be sure it stays warm and has air circulation or it will get soggy.
berkswomen2women.com 41
Health 2Wellness
Fall Recipes continued…
INGREDIENTS: 5 cups low-salt chicken broth 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Risotto con la Zucca – Pumpkin Risotto
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Yield: 6 appetizer servings, 3–4 main servings
1 yellow onion, finely chopped and divided into 2 portions
A wonderful dish any time of year but in particular in the fall with the abundance of squash and pumpkin available at roadside markets. Almost any type of winter squash can be used—Hubbard, acorn, butternut or even canned pumpkin. Surprise your friends with a special Halloween treat as well as a nice accompaniment to a winter holiday table.
2 ounces pancetta or bacon, finely cubed 1 ¼ pound butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into finger-sized pieces 1 ½ cups of Arborio or Carnolori rice—available at most supermarkets or Italian specialty shops ¼ cup dry white wine, warmed ¹/³ cup grated Parmesan cheese salt & white pepper, to taste
42 Women2Women Fall 2014
*Topping: 10–12 sage leaves lightly sautéed in butter and/or a handful or crushed amoretti cookies
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INSTRUCTIONS:
1. In a saucepan over low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add half the onion and all of the pancetta, sautéing until it begins to sweat. Continue cooking for 5 minutes, until the onions soften. 2. Add the squash, stirring to coat with the onion. Gently sauté for 6 minutes. 3. Add ½ cup broth and a generous pinch of salt to the squash mixture and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The squash will take on the consistency of a chunky puree. Remove from heat and set aside.
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4. Bring remaining broth to a simmer in a small saucepan. Keep at a very low simmer until incorporating it into the risotto, at which point increase heat to a low boil. 5. Over medium heat, warm the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy saucepan with straight sides. Add the remaining onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. 6. Add the rice to the onion, mixing well to evenly coat the grains with oil. Stir for 3-4 minutes, lightly toasting the grains. While continuing to stir, pour in the wine, cooking until the rice absorbs most of the liquid, about 3 minutes. 7. Add ½ cup hot broth to the rice mixture, stirring continuously as rice absorbs the liquid. The rice should cook lively but not too fast, the temperature needs to be regulated and carefully watched. Continue adding the broth in ½ cup additions until it has absorbed most of the liquid. 8. When the 3rd addition of broth has been incorporated add the squash mixture. Continue adding the liquid, in small increments and stirring continuously. 9. When the grains are tender yet firm to the bite and the risotto has a creamy consistency, after about 20 minutes, remove from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and Parmesan. Taste and season with salt and white pepper, if desired. 10. Remove from heat and allow to rest a few minutes before serving. Spoon onto warmed individual plates and serve topped with sautéed sage leaves and crushed amaretti cookies. berkswomen2women.com 43
Book Club
Business Reads Do you ever wonder what business periodicals your colleagues are reading? Women2Women was curious so we posed the question to our friends via social media. Here are the responses:
“The One Minute Manager” by Kenneth H. Blanchard Submitted by David Orlick
“The Slight Edge” by Jeff Olson Submitted by Glenna Seelig
“Who Moved My Cheese?” by Spencer Johnson Submitted by Heidi Solomon Orlick
“Daring Greatly” by B. Brown Submitted by Phoebe Canakis
“Serial Entrepreneur” by Jack Gulati Submitted by Nanda Tucci-Venezia
“7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey Submitted by Kathy Keaney Snavely and Wendy Kerschner
“Outliers” by Malcolm Gladwell Submitted by Dena Breslin
“Never Eat Alone” by Keith Ferrazzi Submitted by Maria Radwanski
“The No Asshole Rule” by Robert I. Sutton, PhD Submitted by Tom Butler
“How to Win Friends & Influence Friends” by Dale Carnegie Submitted by Wendy Kerschner
“Hug Your Customers” by Jack Mitchell Submitted by Angie Martin
“Endless Referrals” by Bob Burg Submitted by Wendy Kerschner
“Let the Leaders Steer and the PEOPLE Drive” by Toni Reece Submitted by Toni Reece
“How to Think Like a CEO” by D.A. Benton Submitted by Laura Humphrey-Bunn
44 Women2Women Fall 2014
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berkswomen2women.com 45
Book Club
Catch up with Green Eggs & Hamlet’s Current Selection…
Read along with Women2Women’s book club, Green Eggs & Hamlet. Get together with your own book club to read and discuss, or call in to the live Green Eggs & Hamlet discussion on BCTV!
Help Kids Read Better
The current selection, as suggested by readers like you, is:
The Painted Girls, Cathy Marie Buchanan 1878 Paris. Following their father’s sudden death, the van Goethem sisters find their lives upended. Without his wages, and with the small amount their laundress mother earns disappearing into the absinthe bottle, eviction from their lodgings seems imminent. With few options for work, Marie is dispatched to the Paris Opéra, where for a scant seventeen francs a week, she will be trained to enter the famous ballet. Her older sister, Antoinette, finds work as an extra in a stage adaptation of Émile Zola’s naturalist masterpiece L’Assommoir. Marie throws herself into dance and is soon modeling in the studio of Edgar Degas, where her image will forever be immortalized as Little Dancer Aged Fourteen. There she meets a wealthy male patron of the ballet, but might the assistance he offers come with strings attached? Meanwhile Antoinette, derailed by her love for the dangerous Émile Abadie, must choose between honest labor and the more profitable avenues open to a young woman of the Parisian demimonde. Set at a moment of profound artistic, cultural, and societal change, The Painted Girls is a tale of two remarkable sisters rendered uniquely vulnerable to the darker impulses of "civilized society." In the end, each will come to realize that her salvation, if not survival, lies with the other. Join the live discussion on BCTV on August 6 from 8:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. with host & producer: Robin Costenbader-Jacobson, CLC, Life Coach & Principal–RC-J Consulting Associates, LLC
46 Women2Women Fall 2014
Become a volunteer reading tutor! Volunteers are needed in elementary schools throughout Berks County. Visit ReadySetReadBerks.org or call Darby Wiekrykas at 610-685-4574 for more information. Ready, Set. READ! is managed by United Way of Berks County.
Women2Know
&
:
More Women2Know looks behind the scenes at outstanding women who have successfully contributed to an organization’s successes, inspire and motivate others to achieve, and personify the mission and objectives of Women2Women.
Q: How have you led other women in their career paths?
Lisa Greenawalt, Ed.D. Q: What has led to your current career path? A: This question is simple; mentors led me to my current career path. Women that I respected personally and professionally had a profound influence on the choices I made. These women offered guidance, support, and nurturing through their words, actions, and leadership. This mentorship was not intentional but rather, it happened through the course of our interactions. Beginning my professional career as a registered nurse at The Reading Hospital and Medical Center provided experiences that afforded me opportunity to become a nurse educator. Later, I broadened my focus to educational administration and served as a junior/senior high school principal and ultimately, became a principal at Berks Career and Technology Center.
guided me into educational administration and she pushed me to grow professionally, to set high standards and goals, and to become a visionary leader. Through the mentorship of these two women, I became the individual I am today and am most appreciative of all they have selflessly done for me throughout my career and lifetime.
A: As principal, I have opportunity to influence students who are beginning their career journey. As it relates specifically to the health care industry, I am fortunate to serve on the Pennsylvania Health Occupations Students of America (PENN HOSA) State Advisory Board. This student organization promotes careers Q: What words of wisdom would in health care and provides opportunities you offer to other women? for students to learn knowledge, practical applications and leadership skills. Each A: Every woman deserves a Faye or Joann spring, PENN HOSA coordinates a State in her life. I encourage you, as a woman, to Leadership Conference where students have seek female role models who are strong and opportunity to demonstrate their learning in well-rounded individuals, who care about you a professional, competitive venue and interact as a person and a professional, and who are professionally with other students and health willing to mentor, encourage, and support you care professionals. as well as “tell you like it is.” Many women In a more global sense, I have a responsibility embody the attributes of Faye and Joann; to encourage students to schedule rigorous I encourage you to find those women and academic courses to complement their career include them in your life. program of study. Teachers are asked to integrate academic concepts into the career Q: What is the most valuable way curriculum and high school principals are women can support each other? encouraged to schedule students in academic coursework that helps to prepare them for A: I believe that it is essential for women the 21st century workforce. to nurture one another, not in a maternal sense, but in a manner that is supportive, Q: Would you wish to acknowledge professional, and encourages each to grow as a mentor or friend who helped a professional and as an individual. We should you aspire to this point in your also acknowledge that nurturing, or mentoring, life’s journey, and why? is a two way process; the mentor learns and grows along with the one being mentored. A: Faye Lehman has been my lifelong personal Additionally, it is important to model and professional mentor. Faye introduced me and promote civility. Within our personal to nursing and nursing education. Personally, and professional relationships, we need to she challenged me to look holistically at my demonstrate respect for one another, be career, my faith, my well-being, and my accountable, and be willing to consider community service. Faye modeled profes- growth and change. By modeling positive and sionalism, love, empathy, forgiveness, and Continued on page 48 faith. Another mentor, Dr. Joann Zogby, berkswomen2women.com 47
productive communication, addressing problems proactively, and focusing on continuous improvement, women can help promote civility in the workplace and community. Q: Is there a philosophy that you live by? A: I was most fortunate to attend a conference in which Archbishop Desmond Tutu presented a keynote address about the South African concept of Ubuntu. Desmond Tutu tells us that: “A person with Ubuntu is open and available to others, affirming of others, does not feel threatened that others are able and good, for he or she has a proper self-assurance that comes from knowing that he or she belongs in a greater whole and is diminished when others are humiliated or diminished, when others are tortured or oppressed.” Archbishop Tutu sums up civility succinctly. As for a personal philosophy, I recognize that I influence others and they, in turn, influence me. As a principal, it is important to realize the concept of Ubuntu and encourage students and staff to think beyond their individual circle and environment, to become involved in their community in situ and also at large, and to be competitive but gracious. This broader concept of Ubuntu is realized within high school initiatives to eliminate bullying, to improve student outcomes, to improve climate and culture, and to improve morale locally and more globally.
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Q: What’s your mission? A: My mission is to advocate for students, encourage others to set high expectations and reach beyond their comfort zone, and to plan for the future while living in the moment. Q: What 3 things do you recommend to assure success? A: Although there are many attributes associated with success, I would share the following three recommendations. I would encourage you to look for balance in your personal and professional life by caring for yourself holistically to ensure your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. In your professional life, seek a career where you find passion, inspiration, and with enough compensation to pay your bills and enjoy life. Finally, from a personal perspective, choose your partner and friends carefully; choose those who promote you as an individual, are supportive during good times and bad, and are willing to celebrate your successes and accomplishments. Q: How do you want to be perceived/remembered? A: I wish to be remembered as a respected colleague, an advocate for students, a community volunteer, and as a role model for my family. Q: What is the best advice you have received? A: Early in my career, a colleague, Suzanne Kern, shared Richard Carlson’s book, “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff” with me and suggested that it is easy to lose sight of yourself and those around you when you are busy navigating a professional and personal life. Stay true to yourself. I’ve learned that the “small stuff” usually “comes out in the wash.” This book remains part of my professional library.
48 Women2Women Fall 2014
Women2Know Argyro (Roula) Elliker Q: What has led you to your current career path? A: I love working with children and I love words. I have observed that the knowledge of words can empower people. It’s been a privilege to have the opportunity to teach words to children and watch them light up when they’ve mastered a new word. Seeing a five year old casually use “resplendent” to describe glistening ornaments or hearing youngsters reflect that the “pinnacle” of their summer vacation was going to Dorney Park, brings great joy. Q: What are you most proud of? A: I am most proud of the accomplishments of the young children. It is truly amazing to see how they enthusiastically learn and use higher level vocabulary in their daily life. You may have seen our “Word of the Week” program. It engages the children to learn key robust words to build up their vocabulary and encourage their love of learning. Now, in its fifth year of implementation, it has wonderfully permeated the school setting and the extended community. It appears in the Reading Eagle and WEEU, in a plethora of local businesses and libraries, and is heard every Monday on WEEU radio.. These multiple support points from enthusiastic teachers and public servants provide an environment of learning. Imagine—we could make Reading the Reading Capital of the World (get the play on words? If you want to learn more, see the feature on WOW). Q: How have you led other women in their career paths? A: I am not sure I have led others into education, but I am thrilled that my oldest daughter became an educator, eventually earning her doctorate, focusing on work to help ameliorate illiteracy. My middle daughter has a career in advertising and just shared that she’s working on a project focused on helping children in Africa learn to read and write. And my youngest daughter is graduating with a degree in speech pathology. My daughter-in-law constantly impresses us with imaginative early reading strategies that she uses with her children, and a new young lady in our family circle does incredible work as she reaches kids with challenges on a daily basis. Education is a gift that should always be embraced and pursued. Q: Would you wish to acknowledge a mentor or friend who helped you aspire to this point in your life’s journey, and why? A: I am indebted to a myriad of people. First, my father, a most learned man, who has instilled the love of learning in me and everyone
else he’s met. His incredible wisdom and knowledge have impacted many. He earned a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania while teaching himself English and working several jobs to support our family. As a professor at Slippery Rock University he inspired many to study hard, think deeply and learn constantly. He presented me with my first Webster’s Dictionary when I was seven, which I continue to cherish and share with my students. My husband, with his artistic and creative talents, has helped to support this vision of making our community a literacy hub. His musical ear and story telling ability have brought rhyme and melody to the words we try to promote in our Reading area. He is able to demonstrate how truly mellifluous words can be. Leslie Angelucci-Kuriger, my colleague, has provided phenomenal assistance in the launching and nurturing of this monumental endeavor. Steve Baylor, our principal, has enthusiastically supported and encouraged the vision from the onset. Coworkers, administrators, community members and representatives have all played an integral role in spreading the love of words. Continued on page 50
Principles of the WOW (Word of the Week)
1. WOW words are higher order, often root-constructed, character building and fun. 2. WOW words are integrated into all aspects of school, home and community life. 3. WOW words encourage children to become word detectives, finding, using and bringing the WOWs into their daily vocabulary. 4. WOW words are used to create thematic songs, poems, and stories, with periodic recognition events. 5. WOW words are used by all students, regardless of age or reading level. 6. WOW words are based on the love of students, the love of literacy and the love of community. The combination of these three loves will provide and precipitate a deeper, richer and more positive impact on our culture. 7. WOW words are incorporated organically and authentically in order to promote motivated, engaged and self-empowered student and adult life-long learners.
berkswomen2women.com 49
Women2Know Q: What is the most valuable way women can support each other? A: Camaraderie and collaboration are the most important elements. I’ve seen how wonderfully powerful it is when we all work together toward a common goal. Q: Is there an “aha” moment or experience that defines who you are? A: There are so many inspirational moments every day as kids begin to incorporate words like “delectable,” “sublime,” and “copacetic” into their language and writing. The realization that learning can be fun comes at various times and in unexpected ways. I love all those moments. And I have a special empathy for those who are learning a second language. I recall a special “aha” moment for myself as a young student in kindergarten in Philadelphia. I grew up in a Greek speaking home, and one day my teacher asked me to bring “flour” to school for a class project. Instead I brought a “flower.” Fortunately, just as I was about to walk into class, my instincts told me something was amiss, and I set the flower aside. The perseverance of those trying to learn two languages is very admirable; with so many intricacies and difficulties, it helps them to realize that the words of their native language are often connected to their new language by common roots.
Forever Young
Q: Is there a philosophy that you live by? A: My faith is an essential part of my life, and connected with that is “philotimo,” a beautiful word, the highest of Greek virtues, which roughly translates into “love of honor.” Philotimo represents all that is good. It is gratitude, the “Golden Rule,” kindness, honor, pride, respect, good character and all that is excellent packed into this one word. When selecting the Words of the Week, we follow “Seven Principles of the WOW” because we want these special words to empower and elevate the community for the good. Q: What is your favorite mantra, favorite saying or words that keep you grounded? A: We always like to encourage students with “Go forth with gusto!” We also use “Bravo and excelsior!” to motivate them to continue ever upward. Q: What’s your mission? A: My mission is to help make Reading the Reading Capital of the World. As lofty as that sounds, I think if we all embrace the idea and collaborate, it is possible. What a joy it will be to see it come to fruition! We are so appreciative of all those WOW ambassadors who participate with gusto once they see the vision. They truly uplift Reading and beyond through good works, good words and literacy.
Good communities start with
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50 Women2Women Fall 2014
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