FALL 2016
MAGAZINE
WOMEN Running a Family Business Beth Hahn, SAH & BSGI
CREATING PURPOSE
After Retirement
+
building your
Personal Brand
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Contents FALL 2016
MAGAZINE
Karen Marsdale, Senior Editor • Danielle Antos, Editor Kristin Golden Mancuso, Associate Editor 201 Penn Street • Suite 501 • Reading, PA 19601 berkswomen2women.com • 610.376.6766
Women2Know
wORK2LIFE
6 Talk About Having “Skin”
28
In the Game
Women2Women Advisory Council Margarita Caicedo, Karen Collins, Valerie Downing Vicki Ebner, Toni Eckert, Kim Hippert-Eversgerd Delphia Howze, Bethany Kirkner, Karen Marsdale Kim Musko, Julia Nickey, Mary Jean Noon Chiara Renninger, Connie Skipper, Alison Snyder Tricia Szurgot,Vanessa Wanshop 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 Women2Women Magazine is a publication of the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
To join: W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org Stay connected: BerksWomen2Women.com Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women LinkedIn: Berks Women2Women Sponsors At Press Time Title Investors Penn State Health St. Joseph Wells Fargo Platinum Investors Alvernia University BB&T Boscov’s Department Store, Inc. Capital Blue Cross Elegance Derma Spa Penske Truck Leasing Reading Eagle Company Reading Health System Schneider Electric Gold Investors BCTV Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store Berks County Bar Association Berks County Living Carpenter Technology Corporation Comfort Keepers East Penn Manufacturing Fulton Bank Herbein+Company Highmark BlueShield L.A. Spa & Nail Bar M&T Bank Peritech Home Health Associates, Inc. Reading Dermatology Associates RKL LLP (Reinsel Kuntz Lesher LLP) Sweet Street Tompkins VIST Bank Wyomissing Hair Studio VA Productions 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
9 2016-2017 W2W Launch
30 Schneider Electric:
HeForShe Program Update
featuring Elizabeth Smart
10 The Gurski Twins and Their Careers in Medicine
He Said, She Said
32
Creating Purpose After Retirement
34 ON THE COVER:
Women Running a Family Business
Growth2Go 12
Be Engaged in the Process
17 Building Your Personal Brand
20 Marketing
Tips From Women2Women Members
22 Get Involved!
Women2Women Has Lots to Offer
36 Learning and Engaging Through FBA Peer Groups
Health2Wellness 38
The Treatment of Addiction
42 Every Moment Counts When it Comes to Treating Sepsis
44 Easy Mid-Week Meal Planning for the Family
46 Zika Information You Need!
In Every Issue 5 Editor’s Desk 26 W2W Events © 2016 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: Beth Hahn, SAH & BSGI COVER & STORY PHOTOS BY: Chad Zerbe, Dave Zerbe Studio of Photography
Like us at Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women
Looking for your own copy of Women2Women Magazine? We invite you to view our distribution list, located on page 15, to find a destination near you, or view our digital issue online at berkswomen2women.com
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4 Women2Women Fall 2016
Editor’s Desk
B Dave Zerbe Studio of Photography
erks County is home to many small businesses; many of these businesses are family-owned. Did you know that many women are at the helm of these businesses? We wanted to hear from local women who are running these businesses and how they work together with family members. How do they make it work when they are working with their husband, mother…or in Beth Hahn’s case – their father? Read about Beth’s story, as well as other women who are part of family businesses in Berks County. We also discuss the importance of peer support provided by the Chamber through our Berks Family Business Alliance Peer Groups. There is no doubt that this type of learning is key across many sectors in today’s world.
Danielle Antos Editor, Women2Women Magazine
Director of Marketing & Communications at Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Women2Women Magazine EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Danielle Antos
Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Tracie Barrett Sweet Street
Jessica Bezler
If you’re like me and have school-age children, you see your children off on the school bus every morning and then it’s off to work! Each day, I find myself wondering, “What’s for dinner?” and so do my kids and my husband! Somedays, it’s difficult for me to remember to take something out of the freezer or plan ahead to throw a meal in the crock pot. Thank goodness Tracie Barrett, Research & Development Chef at Sweet Street, has some recommendations for quick dinners for busy week nights. The secret…plan ahead! That’s my “school-year resolution!” In the world of work or even in the volunteer realm, personal branding should be on your list of things to think about. How can we leverage our work experience and also the hours spent volunteering to create a personal brand and market ourselves to the community and our peers? Even if you don’t have a full-time job, experience and skills can help you in many aspects of your life. Learn how to market yourself with tips from “brand experts” on page 20. You’ll be surprised to hear how basic these tools are to your success. With the impending presidential election, have you ever considered becoming more engaged in the process of government? Many issues affect women and we need to have more of a presence at all levels in the process. Check out the article on page 12 for more information on how educating ourselves and becoming involved at the local level can improve our decision-making at the ballot box. It may inspire you to get involved!
Reading Health System
Tracy Hoffmann
Hoffmann Publishing Group
Sara Braun Radaoui
Hoffmann Publishing Group
Kristin Golden Mancuso
We also continue our series on the “Top 10 Threats to Women’s Health” on page 42. Number eight on our list is Septicemia/Blood Poisoning – a very scary condition that hits close to home for me. Since Sepsis can be difficult to diagnose, Reading Health System weighs in on what to look for. We also have information about the Zika Virus from Dr. Meredith Gable, Penn State Health – St. Joseph.
KGM Marketing LLC
Wendy Kershner Axia Marketing
Karen Kline
Fulcrum Information Resources
Kristin Kramer Wilson School District, Wilson Education Foundation
Britany LaManna Loomis Company
Karen Marsdale
Here at the Chamber, we are gearing up for the 2016-17 Women2Women Launch on October 6th! Our guest speaker is Elizabeth Smart! We are proud to partner with Berks Women In Crisis as Elizabeth shares her inspiring story of survival. Don’t forget to check out the other upcoming Women2Women events on page 26. We are looking forward to another great year with informative and educational programming for all women in Berks. All the best,
Danielle Antos
Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Monica Rush
Penn State Health – St. Joseph
Connie Skipper
Berks County Intermediate Unit
Melissa Varone
Reading Public Museum
berkswomen2women.com 5
Community & Business Profiles, Insights & Highlights
Talk About Having “Skin” in the Game By Mark Kramer, Core1Marketing
T
here have been umpteen articles and suggested antidotes written around work/life balance. Because each of us is unique in our own career and family, in the end, it’s up to us to discover what works best for us through discipline and commitment. It’s not just a challenge for the “woman” but can affect the entire family: job income vs. child care costs; quality time with your children vs. climbing the corporate ladder. Oh yeah, let’s not forget spending some time with your spouse. Many families struggle with one or all of these things daily.
this time, she became pregnant with her first child, Brandon (now 12) and a year later earned her Master of Science degree as a family nurse practitioner at University of Detroit Mercy. She and Jason were offered a job to work together at Reading Dermatology Associates and moved to the area in 2008. Their family grew with the birth of sons Christian, 6, and Noah, 3, and their daughter Emalee, who just recently turned a year old. “I have a true passion when it comes to caring for our family of patients. Many times, it’s so natural for me to greet my patients with a hug,” Amy said. That caring sentiment flows into the culture at Reading Dermatology where the same attitude is present in the staff members. “The fact that I love my job makes it so difficult to divide my time between work and family. Up until Emalee was born, I was homeschooling my sons, and I was being pulled in many different directions,” she said.
We pull bits and pieces of information from others in learning how they happily seem to keep the work/life balance thing going. Each story has a different twist or way of doing things that works for them. For instance, Amy Hendrix is a registered nurse practitioner as well as nursing administrator at Reading Dermatology Associates. Her husband, Dr. Jason Hendrix, is a physician and partner in the practice. Amy and Jason recently had their fourth child, just prior to moving their entire practice to a new location at the former Ronco’s Pharmacy building So how does the Hendrix family manage life on a day-to-day basis? in West Lawn. This fully renovated location, called West Lawn Plaza, “Having a routine that’s highly dependent on organization,” said Amy. is home to several businesses, including Elegance Derma Spa, which Her days are long and full. Her children’s schedules are the first priority is also owned by Amy. Elegance Derma Spa is an upscale cosmetic with most of the preparation for their day starting the night before. skin care spa specializing in anti-aging procedures and products that Preparation in every way, from preparing lunches, book bags, and laying “gently soften the aging process.” No doubt, this family has plenty of out clothes for the next day, is a must. After the kids are in bed, Amy “skin in the game,” pun intended, when it comes to work/life balance. confirms her work schedule on-line, finishes work on the computer and prepares for the day ahead. Jason is typically completing the day’s Amy, 37, is all too familiar with the challenges of both caring for paperwork until around ten o’clock every night. The alarm goes off her family and caring for her patients. Before deciding to become a at five-thirty in the morning and the day begins with daily devotions, nurse practitioner, Amy earned her Bachelor’s degree in nursing from giving Amy the focus to start the day. Amy prepares breakfast for the Madonna University in Livonia, Michigan where she discovered a true family and the kids watch educational videos while she gets ready for interest in dermatology. After spending seven years as an intensive work. “We’re so blessed that Jason and I really pull together as a team care unit nurse, she decided to become a nurse practitioner and began and manage our family life,” said Amy. training for her Masters in NP and nursing administration. During 6 Women2Women Fall 2016
The workday for Amy and Jason has the potential to be a little hectic; they have a satellite office in Pottsville. Jason and his partner in the practice, Dr. Dean Burget, divide time between both offices. Amy manages her time between Reading Dermatology and Elegance Derma Spa. Amy shares, “One key to success in both our businesses and our daily lives is our wonderful employees. They offer us support and are extremely skilled, extremely knowledgeable, and very personable. However, my phone is still on 24/7 to take phone calls and reply to emails and texts,” said Amy.
Celebration of Peace December 12, 2016 | 6–8 p.m. DoubleTree Reading, Ballroom
40 Anniversary of Berks Women In Crisis th
Host Committee Co-Chairs Sarah Ehrlich, Susan Fromm, Julia Klein and Helen Najarian
Of course, there are after-school activities. Sons Brandon and Christian are involved in sports, so when Amy takes them to practice, she squeezes some exercise into the day by walking. She also manages to work out at a gym three times a week.
40 years of providing safety, life, and hope to victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. A reflection on our yearlong educational programs for audiences who have a stake in promoting the healthy, peaceful and supportive co-existence of the people of our community which we call
Every evening before bed, Amy leads what she calls a “clean sweep.” She and the children move throughout the house cleaning and straightening up as they go. “It’s so important for us to have organization, to know where things are. It saves time in the long run and eliminates stress,” says Amy. She is emphatic that they ALL participate, “and they do,” she adds with a smile.
Voices for Change Awards will be presented to: Gwen Gage and Kelly Gage Mocey | The Kindness Coalition
The Healthy Village Project
Domestic Violence Activist, Actor & Best Selling Author Victor Rivas Rivers
will present: “I am the Child that the Village Raised”
Weekends are most definitely family time, but also a time for chores and preparing for the week ahead. Amy prepares meals for the entire week to save time on cooking, making weekdays less hectic. Weekends are pretty much a family affair for everything they do, including grocery shopping and errands. And when Amy and Jason are working outside, their kids are right there either helping them or playing.
re Yo u ’ e d t i v n I
HEALTHY VILLAGE PROJECT THE
Jason, a navy veteran, admits that Amy does the majority of the organization when it comes to managing the household. “In the Navy, I did a lot of things like kitchen chores that I didn’t particularly like, which Amy actually does like to do. So, we’ve both come to realize we each have things we do around the house that each of us is better suited for,” says Jason. “Amy organizes activities for the kids but between the two of us, we work together to fit it all into our schedules. We pass the baton a lot it when it comes to getting the kids to Boy Scouts or track practice. Good communication is the key to time management so Amy and Jason can be there to cover for each other. They have
Invitation will follow in November. Email peace@berkswomenincrisis.org or call Jan C. at 610-370-7604 for information Contact us on the web at: www.berkswomenincrisis.org
mutual respect for each other, and their responsibilities, because they’re working towards the same goals, concurred Amy. From a woman’s perspective, Amy shared that she always thought women bore a lot of the responsibility when it came to managing children and the household. “I used to put a lot of pressure on myself, creating crazy to-do lists that were maybe a bit over the top, then was pretty hard on myself when some things didn’t get done,” Amy said. “Always striving for perfection was something I struggled with. Now I try to be more realistic and not panic if it all doesn’t get done. The important thing is that I do set goals and work towards them. If you’re always at least trying to do your best, then I think you’ve succeeded.” berkswomen2women.com 7
Women2Know
2016-17 Women2Women Launch FEATURING ELIZABETH SMART
Women2Women is pleased to partner with Berks Women In Crisis (BWIC) in presenting Keynote Speaker Elizabeth Smart on Thursday, October 6. Join us for an inspiring evening and hear Elizabeth’s amazing story of triumph. 8 Women2Women Fall 2016
T
he abduction of Elizabeth Smart was one of the most followed child abduction cases of our time. Elizabeth was abducted on June 5, 2002, and her captors controlled her by threatening to kill her and her family if she tried to escape. Fortunately, the police safely returned Elizabeth back to her family on March 12, 2003 after being held prisoner for 9 grueling months.
Through this traumatic experience Elizabeth has become an advocate for change related to child abduction, recovery programs and national legislation. Elizabeth triumphantly testified before her captor and the world about the very private nightmare she suffered during her abduction, which led to conviction.
Women2Know
The founder of the “Elizabeth Smart Foundation,” Elizabeth has also helped promote The National AMBER Alert, The Adam Walsh Child Protection & Safety Act and other safety legislation to help prevent abductions. Elizabeth has chronicled her experiences in the New York Times best-selling book, My Story. In addition, she and other abduction survivors worked with the Department of Justice to create a survivors’ guide, entitled You’re Not Alone: The Journey From Abduction to Empowerment. This guide is meant to encourage children who have gone through similar experiences not to give up but to know that there is hope for a rewarding life. In this captivating message, Elizabeth will share her incredible story of perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. She will not only tell her personal story, but also discuss topics such as overcoming extreme adversity, the importance and process of recovery, and not allowing your past to dictate your life’s future. Elizabeth knows that there is nothing more important than having hope in a difficult situation. Having lived through an extreme circumstance as a young teenager, Elizabeth gives great insight and hope to all. Elizabeth’s past and present are a powerful testament to the fact that it is possible to overcome extreme adversity and take control of your future.
berkswomen2women.com 9
Women2Know
THE GURSKI TWINS AND THEIR CAREERS IN MEDICINE By Melissa Varone Vice President of Marketing & Community Engagement – Reading Public Museum
Dr. Kathy Gurski-Becker
Dr. Karen Gurski
K
It’s where they help builders.
It’s where we make decisions. Deb and Tom Kearse, Owners Kohl Building Products
Locally focused. A world of possibilities.
VISTBank.com 10 Women2Women Fall 2016
aren Gurski, MD, is an obstetrician-gynecologist physician affiliated with Penn State Health St. Joseph Hospital. Kathy J. Gurski-Becker, DMD, is a dentist at her private practice, Gurski & D’Agostino Family Dentistry.
What influenced you to have a career in medicine? DR. KAREN GURSKI: I wasn’t one of those
people who knew from the time they were in grade school they wanted to be a doctor. Although my mom was a nurse, there were no other physicians in the family. I do think my parents taught compassion and respect for others. I always loved the sciences and I was a Molecular and Cell Biology major in college. The idea of medicine evolved for me while I was in college.
DR. KAREN GURSKI: I wouldn’t say I had one
single mentor or role model – I had my entire family! My parents were hard-working and encouraged all of us to not only do our best, but also go beyond that. I think that having my twin by my side was a bonus. We motivated each other to tackle the next obstacle. I also think fondly of several high school teachers who challenged me academically. Now, my colleagues and partners continue to inspire me with their commitment to patients and the community.
Did you always want to be a dentist and how is it rewarding?
DR. KATHY GURSKI-BECKER: My mother
DR. KATHY GURSKI-BECKER: I wasn’t
was a nurse and was probably the guiding force behind my pursuing a profession in the medical field. She encouraged us girls to be strong, independent women. Also, our Dad was in education, but I knew teaching or administration was not for me.
always certain I wanted to be a dentist, but I was fairly determined upon high school graduation. I would say my dentist when I was a kid provided some inspiration, as he was always upbeat and seemed enthusiastic and passionate about his career in dentistry. As with any job, one can have fantastic days or absolutely horrible days; however, the best reward is when I’ve made a positive impact on someone’s life, be it from an esthetics or functional standpoint.
Did you always want to be an OB/ GYN and how is it rewarding?
Did you have a mentor or role model that inspired you?
started medical school I was certain I was going to be a cardiologist! It wasn’t until the start of my 4th year of medical school that I completed my OB/GYN rotations. It was then I felt a connection to the field. I think that having grown up with so many sisters, OB/GYN came naturally to me. I have had the opportunity to care for so many women and become part of their lives and families. It is like having even more sisters now!
DR. KATHY GURSKI-BECKER: My parents
were firm believers that hard work pays off and they always taught us to do and be our best, so in that respect, they were great role models. A houseful of ambitious siblings also served as an impetus for success. I didn’t have a mentor after completing dental school, but I sure would have appreciated one. It would have been super to have someone to impart not only their pearls of wisdom and tricks of the trade, but also their knowledge of the business side of dentistry.
DR. KAREN GURSKI: I didn’t know I would
be an obstetrician/gynecologist. In fact, when I
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Growth2Go /
Finance, Mentoring & Education
BE ENGAGED
IN THE PROCESS MANY REGULATIONS, LAWS, POLICIES AND COMMUNITY ISSUES IMPACT WOMEN By Gail A. Landis, C.P.M. Vice President, Government & Community Relations, The Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Contributions by Karen Baxter External Affairs Manager – Met-Ed, A FirstEnergy Company
W
omen need to get involved, make their voices heard, and advocate for the issues they care about whether it is an election year or not. Participation is important at all levels of political involvement, from those who want to make educated decisions at the ballot box, to women who decide to run for office or want to influence public policy in other ways. As advocates, we must educate ourselves about the origin, nature and scope of laws, policies and regulations. We also need to become actively involved in shaping these same laws, policies and regulations. By speaking out Karen Baxter (Met-Ed), Vice Chair of GRCCI Business & Community Advocacy Council, and Gail Landis (GRCCI) preparing for 2016 Congressional Conversation event.
12 Women2Women Fall 2016
Growth2Go publically and/or being engaged in the process we can make a difference. Women in politics and community leadership is not just a good thing, it is a game changer. Wonderful things happen when women get involved. You Can Make a Difference; Be Informed
Informed women can overcome the obstacles that discourage them from being engaged in the political process and taking on influential community leadership roles. Women can also learn by participating in certain aspects of the election process, particularly at the local level, and joining civic society organizations. For example, the Chamber has an engaged Business and Community Advocacy Council that discusses the proposed and existing laws, regulations and rules with the goal of sharing information on key policies and issues or taking a pro-business position and speaking out with one voice. The Advocacy and Community Leadership Series provides opportunities for our members and the community to connect with the entire group of Federal and State officials along with the County of Berks, the City of Reading and other local municipalities. Everyone studied Government 101 in high school, but do we remember how the three branches of government (legislative, executive and judicial) can impact our lives based on their governance role? Online resources are available that allow you to gain an understanding of the process of how policy agendas become law and community priorities are established. Engage in the Process
Identify opportunities, career paths or positions of leadership within companies and our community that have influence. You also can participate through a range of activities such as discussion and debate, lobbying and activism in formal and informal ways. Both major political parties have Women’s Leadership Forums, national and state caucuses, clubs and many other organizations that share a goal of mobilizing, engaging and turning out women at every level of the political process. You can be active at the grassroots level, supporting candidate campaigns and attending rallies. Participate in the governance of the communities you belong to in an appointed
Chamber members gather on the steps of the Capitol during Regional Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C.
or merited position. Register as a candidate, to campaign, to be elected and to hold office at all levels of government to be part of the decisionmaking process to shape and make decisions on policy and conduct public programs. Michele Bachelet, the first executive director of UN Women and now president of Chile said, “… in a time of global and interdependent challenges, we can no longer afford to waste the potential of half the world’s population. Given the challenges that we face today, from climate change to economic models under increasing strain, to high unemployment and poverty to growing pressures on natural resources, we need the best leaders we can find, and many of these leaders are women. Women bring their own insights and perspectives, and diversity improves decision-making.”
collaborative input from all members of the community. Exercise Your Right to Vote
In four years, our nation will celebrate the centennial of one of the most hard-fought battles for basic Democratic freedoms that this country has ever witnessed. Starting in 1848 with the Seneca Falls Convention, the battle to secure voting rights for 51% of America’s population did not conclude until 72 years later with the passage of The Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920.
While women tend to vote in greater numbers than men, across the board we still have far fewer female legislators than male. According to Catalyst (a nonprofit organization that researches and promotes progress for women), women There is a value attached to the contribution currently hold less than 20% of congressional of all, including women in the governance seats and only 48 women in the history of the system of any community/country. Decision- United States have held cabinet or cabinet-level making becomes beneficial when it reflects the Continued on page 14 berkswomen2women.com 13
Fall is in Full Bloom at the Garden Center & Gift Shop
Growth2Go
Attendees engage in the process at the Chamber’s 2016 Congressional Conversation event. Left to Right: Berks County Congressmen: Ryan Costello, Charlie Dent and Pat Meehan.
appointments. Of the 50 state governors, just six are women. There is a success story at the state level: the number of women serving in state legislatures has more than quintupled since 1971 but it is still under 25%.
“We have a large assortment of Plants and Unique Home Decorations for the Fall.”
According to a 2015 report published by the Pew Research Center, among 137 countries with data available, the United States ranks 83rd when it comes to women in the national legislature.
--Diane Salks
Exercise Your Right to Vote All 203 Pennsylvania House members and half of the Senate (25) members are up for reelection in the 2016 General Election on November 8, 2016. We will also be voting for Attorney General, Auditor General and Treasurer, one of Pennsylvania’s two U.S. Senators, all 18 Congressional representatives and, of course, President of the United States. How can we move our community forward?
ER NN
WI
Women’s political leadership and accountability is critical on key issues. Political leadership allows women to have a voice in setting agendas and influence the public. This accountability becomes the cornerstone for not only numerical enhancement of women’s presence but also their ability to transform outcomes, the content and the ways in which public policy is made. However you decide to be engaged, in shaping policy and transforming the community: as an elected official, appointed government position (board/authority), campaign consultant/volunteer, lobbyist, site developer, mentor, educator or business/community advocate – realize that you can influence policy and community issues to make a difference!
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ON AUGUST 18TH WE CELEBRATED THE RATIFICATION OF THE 19TH AMENDMENT GIVING WOMEN THE RIGHT TO VOTE!
Make sure you exercise your right on Election Day: November 8, 2016. FIND YOUR CANDIDATES AND ELECTED OFFICIALS USING THE CHAMBER’S GREATER READING VOICE WEBSITE AT: http://greaterreadingvoice.freeenterpriseaction.com/oetgeMI
Get Your Own Copy of Women2Women Magazine Pick one up at any of the locations below while supplies last, or view it online at berkswomen2women.com. BOYERTOWN: Dancing Tree Creations DOUGLASSVILLE: My Dad’s Flooring EXETER: The Spine & Wellness Center Martin Appliance FLEETWOOD: Simmeria Café and Bistro HAMBURG: Necessities New & Used Furniture Gallery of Hamburg KUTZTOWN: Dunkelberger’s Fine Jewelry & Gifts Sorrelli Jewelry MORGANTOWN: Weaver’s Orchard, Inc. OLEY: Evelyn & Harriette’s READING: Goggleworks Center for the Arts Judy’s on Cherry Double Tree Hotel ROBESONIA: The Shoppes at Randler’s Village
SINKING SPRING: Charlotte Shoppe Hair on The Avenue SHILLINGTON: Goodwill Fashion Store TEMPLE: Riverview Nursery & Garden Center WERNERSVILLE: Five & Divine WEST LAWN Elegance Derma Spa Reading Dermatology Associates WEST READING: The Compleat Baldwin Brass Center It’s A Gift! The Woman’s Exchange of Reading Jan Rae WYOMISSING: The Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence Wyomissing Hair Studio Courtyard by Marriott Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store L.A. Spa & Nail Bar
It all starts with U
LIVE UNITED
GOOD THINGS HAPPEN WHEN WE LIVE UNITED. /uwberks uwberks.org Need help? Call 2-1-1
berkswomen2women.com 15
It’s All About Getting You Back
TO INDEPENDENCE
Personalized Programs for Stroke Rehabilitation When facing challenges caused by a stroke, it’s good to know HealthSouth Reading Rehabilitation Hospital has comprehensive rehabilitation programs to get you back to independence. In fact, HealthSouth Reading has earned The Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certification in Stroke Rehabilitation. Experienced teams provide personalized plans and advanced technologies to help patients get back to living, whether it’s cooking in the kitchen or playing with the grandkids. For a higher level of care after stroke, choose a hospital that’s experienced in rehabilitation excellence – HealthSouth Reading Rehabilitation Hospital.
A Higher Level of Care The Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certification in Amputee Rehabilitation, Brain Injury Rehabilitation, Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation, Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation and Stroke Rehabilitation
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©2016 HealthSouth Corporation: 1133749
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Growth2Go
Building Your Personal Brand
YOUR PERSONAL BRAND IS HOW YOU PRESENT AND MARKET YOURSELF TO THE WORLD. WHETHER IT IS IN YOUR COMMUNITY OR TO A GREATER AUDIENCE ONLINE, MAINTAINING YOUR BRAND WILL ENHANCE YOUR PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES.
I
t’s one thing to deliver good work, but how do we share that success to advance in our current career, to develop a new opportunity or to grow our business? We spoke to three successful Women2Women members who have each transitioned to different careers, where a strong personal brand is vital to their success, to find out what steps they’ve taken to establish their brands.
By Kristin Golden Mancuso, Owner, KGM Marketing LLC
Nina Bohn, MBA, CTP, is the Founder and President of Illuminate Strategies. Previously Bohn served as the CFO and Vice President of Human Resources at Gateway Ticketing Systems. Bohn started her business almost two years ago and now shares her expertise on company organization, strategy and growth with small to mid-size companies. Vali G. Heist, M. Ed., worked in various roles at Alvernia University, including Director of Financial Aid and Assistant to the President. After reading a Redbook article on organizing, she recognized her skills aligned with those required to become a successful organizer. She decided to begin a new chapter of her life as a Certified Professional Organizer. She wrote Organize This! Practical Tips, Green Ideas, and Ruminations about your CRAP and launched her business The Clutter Crew. Lisa Tiger, a realtor with Century 21 Gold, owned a small advertising agency for 20 years. When she became a realtor, she recognized the opportunity to differentiate herself by leveraging her experience in building brands and establishing credibility. Her successful brand building has contributed to her business success, as she has been one of the top realtors in Berks County for many years. Continued on page 18
berkswomen2women.com 17
Growth2Go KNOW YOUR STRENGTHS All three women spoke about the importance of knowing your strengths, developing those strengths to create opportunities and having the confidence to share them with others. Heist notes that it is important to be aware of your strengths and consider how those skills are transferable. “While I was with Alvernia, every role I held required me to be very organized, to express myself clearly through writing and to pay attention to detail. These skills were the foundation of my current business, The Clutter Crew.”
As for Bohn, it is her direct experience in her roles in the private sector that helps establish her as an authority. “Not only do I have the book knowledge, but I have the actual experience to back it up,” says Bohn. “I equate it to hiring a college graduate; they have the book knowledge, but there are so many outside factors that come into play in the real world that require the experience to effectively use that knowledge.” Tiger’s Century 21 website and advertisements present valuable information to buyers and sellers. She’s not just promoting houses for sale, but helping buyers and sellers know that her experience will help them make the best decisions – providing details about school districts, the loan process, inspections, contract negotiation and all the details involved with closing. Providing valuable information builds credibility.
Says Bohn, “To me knowing my strengths and weaknesses is the key to my success. Being in private industry for many years gave me the time to develop my skills, but knowing one of my strengths is learning, I’m always looking for better and newer SPREAD THE WORD ways to perform those skills. A constantly improving skill set derived from my love of All three women speak of the significant learning allows me to help clients overcome value of referrals. Ask for referrals. If you challenges with new methodology.” deliver successful results for someone, ask them to share the news. Whether it is a positive For Tiger, as a realtor, her strength is in review on LinkedIn, a direct introduction to delivering results for her clients. Tiger is a new prospect by email or a testimonial to keenly aware that a person’s home is usually use in future marketing efforts, a referral is their largest asset. By consistently matching worth its weight in gold. It proves to others the right buyer with the right property, she that you have already delivered success. delivers success for buyers and sellers. Finding this match by supporting this key investment Bohn believes that networking is also critical helps her provide what her clients aim to in spreading the word and building a personal achieve when they work with her. brand. “In the social environment we live in, relationships help build and maintain your BUILD YOUR AUTHORITY client base,” says Bohn. “Networking is a skill, just as vital as proper business etiquette, It’s important to take the strengths you and I’m pleased to see some of our local offer and share your experience and knowl- higher education institutions teaching it to edge to present yourself as an authority in their students.” your field. Heist first started sharing her knowledge with a column she wrote for the Tiger notes that referrals are key to her Reading Eagle and went on to write her book, business success and brand building, but that Organize This! Practical Tips, Green Ideas, and advertising has played a significant role as Ruminations about your CRAP. Heist also speaks well. “Don’t be afraid of advertising,” says to organizations, associations and private Tiger. She considers it an advantage that groups whenever she can. By sharing her she had her own advertising agency for 20 insights and ideas on how to organize just years. She understood from the beginning of about any aspect of life, people understand her real estate career that it was important the value she can offer their personal and to advertise to improve her visibility. She business worlds. maintains consistency in her format, style 18 Women2Women Fall 2016
and message to be sure her advertising is memorable and recognizable. LEVERAGE SOCIAL MEDIA Social media is a vital tool in building your personal brand. Be consistent, be authentic and protect your reputation. Be sure that anything that is shared on social media reflects the professional “you” that you aim to present. “Like,” comment and engage with brands, media and organizations that align with your beliefs and interests. Enjoy the opportunities that online networking can provide. Send an introductory message on LinkedIn. Tweet at your dream mentor or virtual colleague to develop a relationship. Social media provides a platform for new ways to build rapport and make connections. Take advantage. Bohn regularly uses LinkedIn to make more connections and gather background knowledge for clients. Bohn recommends that everyone create a LinkedIn profile beginning in college that expands and grows as we expand and grow in our careers. “It’s an evolving resume that shows personal growth,” she says. “Keeping active on LinkedIn keeps my name out there and visible.” BE ACTIVE IN YOUR COMMUNITY Get involved with non-profits you believe in. Not only will you meet other people with similar interests and beliefs, but you will be able to contribute the best of your talents to an organization. Other volunteers and community members will see you in action. People will notice. Lisa Tiger serves on several community boards and finds her involvement rewarding and enriching. She also makes new connections, which just may lead to new business. FILL GAPS IN EXPERIENCE Bohn suggests, “To fill gaps in my experience I use people from my network. I’ve been involved in a Lean-In circle for almost three years. The women I’ve met have experience that range from non-profit to publicly traded companies and from marketing to
engineering. If I have questions regarding a new social media strategy I’ve heard of but don’t understand, I’ll get together with one of my contacts and they can give me the details I need. Conversely if they need help with strategic planning or human resources for example, they know they can call me for insights or ideas.” Heist also finds it helpful to seek knowledge from the experts around her who can teach her anything she doesn’t know. As she was building The Clutter Crew, she had to learn about email marketing, so she went to a class. When she wanted to understand how to write a query for a magazine article, build a website, and anything else she aimed to learn, she found someone to teach her the basics and took it from there. AND WHAT ABOUT FAILURE?
Consider how you would handle a situation differently next time. “To me a failure is a learning experience, not a ‘failure,’” says Bohn. “As humans we aren’t perfect and I think it’s naive to believe perfection is a possibility. I’m very introspective, so if I perceive something didn’t work out for me I try and figure out why, and try not to repeat the mistake. Realizing I’m not perfect, forgiving myself when I make a mistake, and learning from it is the best I can do.” FINALLY, SUCCESS SPEAKS FOR ITSELF Share the data on your success. It’s not bragging when it’s a statement of fact. People want to hire the experts. Make sure they know you are one!
Mistakes happen. Customers will sometimes be unhappy. Efforts can be unsuccessful.
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Growth2Go
HOLIDAY CRAFT FEST
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Rebecca Doubek, Doubek Worldwide Media 1. Support your friends’/neighbors’ businesses. Go to your neighbor’s candle party (even if you don’t want to) and your friend’s cocktail jewelry party. They will appreciate your support and in turn, support you. And you will be exposed to a whole new network of people in a friendly, social environment. You never know who you are going to run into! 2. Follow through! Be consistent about following up with that email or phone call, or having coffee with that potential lead. Doing what you say you are going to do speaks to your reliability and your confidence. Kristin Golden Mancuso, KGM Marketing LLC 1. Spend time on social media every day engaging with other brands that align with your business. Don’t just post, comment, too! The visibility within other circles will increase your brand recognition. 2. Share your expertise for “free” whenever asked. Speak, write and share tips – even at cocktail parties. Business will result; maybe not immediately, but in time. Someone you speak to may offer a referral. People will always be curious for more, when you provide helpful guidance.
20 Women2Women Fall 2016
Wendy Kershner, Axia Marketing LLC Face-to-face. The best thing anyone can do for their business is to be visible, literally. It goes beyond phone calls, emails, and social media. People do business with PEOPLE, and it’s critical to forge a personal connection, build relationships and develop a rapport with a lot of different people in the community.
services to new customers through referrals. AND reward your customers who have referred business with either a discount or free something! My trainer gives me a free session every time a referral of mine signs up for membership.
For a non-profit: Most non-profits don’t have huge marketing budgets; at the Museum we donate a 6-month membership to the Museum for other non-profit Attend a range of networking and community events on a regular or school charity raffle items. It is a way to make us more visible in the basis – in Greater Berks as well as Lancaster and the Philadelphia area. community and get people through our doors without costing a lot of I choose which ones to go to based on either having a connection (or money! wanting to develop one) in some way. It ranges from presentation topics that interest me, to a lecture by an admirable and successful business Amanda Zeigler, Director of Sales, Sorrelli Jewelry person, to a speaker who does community work with a charity I support, Be amazing at something. Not mediocre at several. Find your and even to an artist reception in my neighborhood. It becomes real and strengths and work with them. authentic if I go to business events for multiple reasons – at the very least I will learn something, and almost always I’m connecting with familiar Don’t give up! Business is hard and things don’t happen easily. They faces who introduce me to at least one new person. take time, effort and energy. Anything worth having is worth working for, especially in business! Megan Maslar, Marketing Manager, The Loomis Company Focus on communication – with your team, with your customers, Create brand awareness by reintroducing your company to your clients with your vendors. by email campaigns at a slow and steady pace. Provide information they would find interesting or appealing. Create your own culture – what do you and your business stand for? When you create that, no one can ever imitate it. It will truly define Andréa Much, Account Executive, your business. Reese Integrated Marketing Take the time to develop your brand message and make it consistent across multiple channels. It’ll help set you apart from your competition! Tracy Smith, Owner/ Event Organizer, Ridgewood Winery Networking Events – A lot of these events are free but some are fees and dues based groups. Find which one suits your business and attend them. These groups have a lot of business professionals and you never know who you will be introduced to and they might be your next client. Make time to talk to your current customers. These people are your best word of mouth referrals and they know someone who needs your services.
CONTACT US FOR A PERSONAL EVALUATION AND CUSTOMIZED EXERCISE PROGRAM
Stephanie Rado Taormina, Founder/Social Media Lead, Have Some Fun Today Stay open minded and think outside the box. You never know when the right idea is going to hit you. I follow a wide variety of brands on social media – some a little outside of my comfort zone to take in the full range of culture across various demographics and social groups. Don’t be afraid to engage and reach out to the influencers that might aid in supporting or enhancing your brand. It’s the Wild West out there right now, so connections of all types are happening globally with the right approach. Be authentic. Period. Melissa Varone, Vice President – Marketing & Community Engagement, Reading Public Museum For a small business: Launch a referral-based campaign where you promote products or berkswomen2women.com 21
Growth2Go
Get Involved! WOMEN2WOMEN HAS LOTS TO OFFER
W
e asked Women2Women WHAT ARE THE BEST members about the benefits ASPECTS ABOUT BEING of being an active member of A W2W MEMBER? Women2Women and participating in our programs. We’ve highlighted some of their responses below. “Friendship and connections”
“Meeting other professional women in Berks County.” “The freedom to express yourself as a woman. The low cost or no cost to events is a benefit to women who want to participate but may have limited means. Kudos.”
If you aren’t a member, join us! If you are “I believe that the quality of the speakers a member, be sure to attend some of the is one of the best aspects. Secondly, the “I think it is a good resource for women who great programs coming up this year! opportunity to meet and connect with women are starting out.” in leadership roles.”
WHY DID YOU JOIN WOMEN2WOMEN? TOP RESPONSES: Networking/Relationship Building Resources (Website, Newsletter) Business Development/Growing Your Business Professional Development Growth2Go Series (Luncheon Sessions) Networking/Relationship Building, Business Development/ Growing Your Business Speaker Series – Women2Know Series Path2Personal Development Sessions (Evening Sessions) Speaker Series – Women2Know Series
22 Women2Women Fall 2016
“Connections.”
“Networking with other women during a lunchtime setting.” “I enjoy the speakers and really liked the one renewal event I attended.” “Knowing that other women are out there with the same struggles and issues that you “The power and support of fellow women are having. And finding solutions for those business leaders.” struggles and issues.” “W2W doesn’t exclude anyone – it’s a very “The fabulous women role models.” “comfortable” environment to take your first steps in networking and expanding your leadership goals.”
“Networking!”
“I look forward to networking and improving “The networking opportunities offered to my leadership skills.” work with other women professionals. Having the ability to stay abreast of current activities “The few programs I have attended in the past going on in the community.” have been very informative and I would like to be more involved once the opportunity “Opportunities for education and personal/ presents itself.” professional development.”
“Love the networking opportunities!” “Connections on a personal and professional level and finding things in common with other group members.”
“Networking and being part of an amazing sisterhood.” “Other women in business relationships.The continued evolution of my skills and career. Really love the awesome programs!” “Networking – making new connections and strengthening relationships.” “Enjoy the diverse membership and opportunities to engage.” “Hearing others’ success stories inspires.”
“Meeting other women of like-minded thinking.” “Learning business skills from other women.” “I enjoy meeting new people and having the opportunity to share my experience and learn from younger members.” “Professional confidence. Networking. Knowledge is power!”
“Supporting women in business.” “The people we meet. The relationships that are cultivated.”
“Love the magazine and regular communications.”
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Cozy Up on a Crisp Fall Night
with a Good Book
2015 Survey Results indicated that our readers are seeking personal enrichment resources. The following list of books was compiled and recommended by the Women2Women Magazine Editorial Committee. Submit your recommendations for future reading lists to dantos@ greaterreadingchamber.org.
Make Your Day: 5 Things Successful People Do Before 8 a.m. by Michelle Brown You see all those successful people. They’re rocking it. How do they do it? Are they super smart? Do they have a team of personal assistants to do their bidding? In Make Your Day, you will find out the five things successful people do every morning that create the life of their dreams – five things anyone can do every morning to launch themselves into unlimited success.
Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office: Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers (A NICE GIRLS Book) by Lois P. Frankel
Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder by Arianna Stassinopoulos Huffington
The New York Times bestseller, which for 10 years has been a must-have for women in business, is now completely revised and updated. In this new edition, internationally recognized executive coach Lois P. Frankel reveals a distinctive set of behaviors-over 130 in all-that women learn in girlhood that ultimately sabotage them as adults. She teaches you how to eliminate these unconscious mistakes that could be holding you back and offers invaluable coaching tips that can easily be incorporated into your social and business skills.
In Thrive, Arianna Huffington makes an impassioned and compelling case for the need to redefine what it means to be successful in today’s world.
24 Women2Women Fall 2016
Empowering Women to Succeed: From Burnout To Victory by Randi Goodman Immerse yourself in the most emotionally raw, powerfully compelling stories of those on the journey of women’s empowerment. These tenacious individuals have faced life-altering challenges and changes, and it’s all captured lyrically and beautifully in the pages within Empowering Women to Succeed.
Summaries of books are publishers’ descriptions.
How Women Decide: What’s True, What’s Not, and What Strategies Spark the Best Choices by Therese Huston From confidence gaps to power poses, leaning in to calling bias out, bossypants to girl bosses, women have been hearing a lot of advice lately. Most of this aims at greater success, but very little focuses on a key set of skills that ensures such success – making the wisest, strongest decisions.
Playing Big: Find Your Voice, Your Mission, Your Message by Tara Mohr A groundbreaking women’s leadership expert and popular conference speaker gives women the practical skills to voice and implement the changes they want to see – in themselves and in the world.
Here’s the Plan: Your Practical, Tactical Guide to Advancing Your Career During Pregnancy and Parenthood by Allyson Downey Here’s the Plan offers an inventive and inspiring roadmap for working mothers steering their careers through the parenting years. Author Allyson Downey, founder of weeSpring, the “Yelp for baby products,” and mother of two young children, advises readers on all practical aspects of ladder-climbing while parenting, such as negotiating leave, flex time, and promotions.
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Upcoming W2W Events
Mark your calendars for these exciting Women2Women events: Growth2Go Leadership Series For Education & Preparation Growth2Go is a professional “Lunch & Learn” series designed for women by women who want to share ways to help you succeed in a competitive world. Lunch is included with these educational sessions.
2016-17 Women2Women Launch featuring Keynote Speaker, Elizabeth Smart OCT 6
15 NOV
MASTERS OF THE WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Tuesday, November 15, 2016 The Inn at Reading 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. $22/person
Thursday, October 6, 2016 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Crowne Plaza Reading $50/person (includes heavy hors d’oeuvres)
Path2Personal Development (P2D) This series has a personal development focus and is comprised of a series of interactive programs throughout the year which provide a place for women to connect, collaborate and support each other in a relaxed environment. NOV 2
WORK/LIFE BALANCE: IS IT A MYTH?
Deborah Bevvino, PhD, NP, Reading Health System Wednesday, November 2, 2016 Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. Networking; 5:15 – 6:30 p.m. Program Free!
Can a woman really balance the world of work and domestic responsibilities? Probably not. New terms such as work life flow and work life rhythm have been used to describe this impossible feat. We can, however, create an internal balance that can nourish both the work world and our personal lives. Implementing small changes can have dramatic effects.
26 Women2Women Fall 2016
Panelists: Ali Grusha, Physician Liaison - Penn StateHealth – St. Joseph; Maria Radwanski, RN MSN CRRN Owner, Chief Operating Officer and Corporate Vice-President – HealthCalls Home Health Agency; Attorney Alexa S. Antanavage, Partner, Antanavage Farbiarz, PLLC; and The Honorable Eleni Dimitriou Geishauser, Attorney and Berks County Judge
Have you ever wondered how some women seem to “do it all,” whether it’s having several jobs, juggling kids’ schedules, or taking care of aging parents? Do you find yourself wondering about their tricks or magical powers? Join our panel discussion with four successful women who’ve mastered the balance and they’ll let you in on their secrets!
nue, 07
120 160
Upcoming W2W Events
Women2Know Speaker Series — For Inspiration Women2Know is a speaker series featuring notable inspiring women who want to share their life lessons and stories of hope and triumph. We invite you to register for any or all of our Women2Know events as unique networking opportunities, while gaining insight from these dynamic women.
6 DEC.
She’s Always Been The Independent Type.
Presented by Constance Morrison, CEO of Home Health Care Management, Inc. Tuesday, December 6, 2016 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Stokesay Castle $22/person
We Aim To Keep Her That Way.
Register for any of these events at www.berkswomen2women.com or call 610.376.6766. To Join Women2Women, e-mail: W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org
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Join Berks VNA and the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton in celebrating the holiday Whether your patients need advanced treatment or just Kathy Gurski-Becker, DMDKathy Gurski-Becker, DMD season with a display hand of 50 unique and unforgettable trees donated in an a helping at home, let us care for them. Mark D’Agostino, DMD Mark D’Agostino, DMD effort to enhance the quality of healthcare in our region!
The same way you care for them. Like family. Kathy Gurski-Becker, DMD SAVE • Cleaning • Crowns • Bridges • Cleaning • Crowns • Bridges Mark Berks VNA and Advantage HomeTHE CareDATE offer compassionate, complete D’Agostino, DMD Sponsor Rally Event Wed. September 28th at 5pm care from the best nurses, therapists and caregivers around.Their • Dentures • Whitening • Dentures • Whitening reputation will certainly protect and enhance yours. Tree Lighting Wed. November 2nd at 5pm • Crowns • Bridges • Invisalign Orthodontics • Invisalign Orthodontics • Cleaning
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berkswomen2women.com 27
Work2Life /
Balancing Life, Work & Family
He Said, She Said By Regina Rinehimer Financial Advisor, Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, and Tom Minnick Associate Vice President of Advancement, Alvernia University
H
ave you heard that Men and Women are from different planets? Do you struggle with understanding the differences in communication between men and women? Wonder why you can work well with some people and seem to clash when working with others? The addition of generational influence and styles can leave some feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. Different personality types and preferences combined with different work ethics, opin-
28 Women2Women Fall 2016
ions and approaches open the floodgates to distinguishing the conundrum presented with communication styles between men and women. We communicate the way we do, because it is what we are taught. What matters is that we give each other a chance, that we get to know what lies behind the communication style and, most importantly, that we resist the urge to jump to premature conclusions about the meaning of a particular style.
Men and women sometimes communicate differently, and understanding these differences is crucial in the working world. The understanding of gender intelligence helps to alleviate workplace conflict. To appreciate and respect the differences between men and women, to anticipate them and respond appropriately to them is essential. Taking the communication gap a bit further one must not overlook a most obvious communication distinction among the generations in the workplace. Differences can have a subsequent unintended impact on trust levels and morale within the organization.
Our New Guide to Handling Touchy Topics with Your Parents
What we say (our message) and the mode (how we say things) are primary types of the differences in communication. An example would be: E-mail responses to an employee’s phone calls (that often are received from younger colleagues) could be a huge sign of disrespect to the employee who communicates using the telephone. This may contribute to misperceptions that inhibit the ability to bond with colleagues of a different age.
Talking to your aging parents about touchy subjects like giving up driving or moving to a retirement community to get more help can be difficult and emotionally draining for everyone involved. So we’ve used our extensive experience to prepare a 12-page guide to help you handle the task. It includes helpful tips and insights like:
The complexities of communication have become much more pronounced in the workplace, particularly since today’s workforce includes four (soon to be five) different generations:
70%
- Veterans (born before 1946) - Baby Boomers (1946-1964) - Generation X (1965-1979) - Generation Y/Millennials (1980-2000) This comingling may not work well in many cases. Most of us readily understand why the differences exist, but somehow we expect that work teams and organizations with heterogeneous mixes of ages, generations, backgrounds and life experiences will not only coexist, but team effectively by force of natural osmosis. Arguably, one of the areas of organizational dynamics that stresses the multigenerational workforce most is communication. Anyone with children and parents (the sandwich generation) knows that communication within each generation can differ drastically.
After age 65, an American has more than a 70% chance of needing help with the activities of daily living like dressing and bathing.
10 examples of what NOT to say to your aging parents 3 ways to avoid anger and misunderstandings Discussing the issue of giving up driving The best time to begin sensitive discussions 6 most common pitfalls for siblings trying to help their parents
To get our free guide, stop by our community, or visit us online at CountryMeadows.com/Parents. And you can always just give us a call to ask a question. We’re here to help.
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Physiological changes that occur when dealing with different communication styles and perceptions must be noted as well. Are we aware of the impact of the communication and that it may impact trust? This will inevitably affect the quality of a relationship. Relationships that create the physiological response, either positive or negative, should be noted with regard to reality as to why this response exists. Addressing the focus on the physiological effects goes a bit further with the thought that “gender” is generally not perceived to have an effect on collaboration factors. The perception exists that women have a higher level of “emotional intelligence” and men are better at confronting conflicts objectively. The perception is that men are better leaders who can make tough decisions and act consistently. Women are better at dealing with “feelings.” This conforms to stereotypes but the impact and substance of this “gender perception” on collaboration should be noted as the beginning point of identifying effective communication differences. Delving deeper into a better understanding of the differences in communication styles creates positive understanding in our personal lives and within the organizations with which we are associated. Join us for more interesting conversation at the presentation of “He Said, She Said,” part of the Path2Personal Development Series of Women2Women on Wednesday, May 10, 2017, at the Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence in Wyomissing.
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Work2Life
HeForShe
Program Update FROM SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC
Schneider Electric continues to strive towards equality for women in the workplace with their HeForShe initiatives. 40 Schneider Electric country presidents have signed the Women’s empowerment principles, set by the UN women’s group.
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- Ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of all women and men workers - Promote education, training and professional development for women - Implement enterprise development, supply chain and marketing practices that empower women - Promote equality through community initiatives and advocacy - Measure and publicly report on progress to achieve gender equality - These leaders oversee more than 90% of the group’s employees, including locations in these countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Denmark, Ecuador, Germany, Finland, France, Ireland, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mexico, Mongolia, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uruguay, Venezuela and Vietnam. SE Leesport is supporting this initiative by strategically placing women in current open positions and planning for succession in leadership positions. We are developing women leaders within the organization as well as seeking strong women to become part of Schneider Electric. berkswomen2women.com 31
Work2Life
CREATING PURPOSE After Retirement By Britany LaManna
Account Executive, The Loomis Company
32 Women2Women Fall 2016
T
here are many views and facts surrounding the subject of retirement. However, one fact discussed in an article in Psychological Science provides evidence that happiness and longevity are fulfilled by having a sense of purpose.
I had the pleasure of meeting Missy Zimmerman whose entire life seems to have been embedded in purpose. For the last 28 years, Missy Zimmerman has led an accomplished career as Vice President of Human Resources & Facilities for Home Health Care Management. In addition to her career, she managed to Missy Zimmerman raise two children and be a best friend to her husband and college sweetheart. If Missy’s last 28 years professionally and personally is not impressive enough, her commitment to her community is more than inspiring.
EnGage in new friendships
Missy has served as president of the board for Berks Women In Crisis, and when Missy knew that she was going to retire she decided to complete a 60-hour training program to enable her to volunteer in the Berks Women In Crisis’ (BWIC) safe house. Yes, there is no “tire” in Missy’s retirement. Missy volunteers 3 days a week as a direct service volunteer. Her advice to others who are retiring… VOLUNTEER! Missy shared that she breaks life down into three volumes of a novel; and for those about to complete chapter two and turn a page to chapter three, she has a few words of wisdom:
START SAVING ALLOW YOURSELF 12 MONTHS TO PLAN ENSURE FAMILY SUPPORT HAVE A CONVERSATION ABOUT YOUR GOALS FOR CHAPTER THREE As Missy put it, retirement is a routine-changer: as your career and the relationships you built during this time are ending, you have the chance to re-invent yourself. So when you retire, consider finding purpose through volunteering. Fulfill your passion with charity, spend Friday morning breakfast with your children and travel spontaneously with your husband. References
http://pss.sagepub.com/content/early/2014/05/06/0956797614531799.abstract
At The Highlands 610-775-2300 2000 Cambridge Ave. Wyomissing
TheHighlands.org A member of Reading Health System berkswomen2women.com 33
Work2Life
(Left to right) Bob Yerger, CEO, Berkshire Systems Group, Inc.(BSGI), Beth Hahn, President, BSGI, and CEO, SAH, Incorporated, and Beth’s husband, Luke Hahn, Vice-President, BSGI.
Women Running a Family Business By Susan Shelly
34 Women2Women Fall 2016
A
fter nearly 30 years of running her own company, Beth Hahn was well qualified in January to step in as president of Berkshire Systems Group, Inc. (BSGI), the Shillington-based business her father, Robert P. Yerger, had established and run for 34 years. BSGI provides, installs and services commercial fire, security and communications systems. Still, she was not immune to the challenges of taking over and leading a family-owned business. As a woman, Hahn experienced some push back early in her career in the security business – a field that many considered a man’s world. “I started my company right after I graduated from college, so it could have been my age as much as my gender. But, if a man didn’t want to work with me, I’d just send out my manager to work with him.” As she gained knowledge of her product and other aspects of the security business, her confidence increased, enabling her to better navigate within the industry. “Once I had gained that confidence, I no longer encountered problems,” she said. One thing Hahn has learned along the way is the value of asking for help when you need it. “Man or woman, it doesn’t matter. You’ve got to ask for help,” she said. “If you’re a nice person, people will be glad to help you and you’ll end up in a better position.”
“I ran my own company for 28 years and that was a lot,” Hahn said recently. “But, I wasn’t completely prepared for this new position. I went from having an eight-person company to a 110-person company, and that takes some getting used to. I’m still getting used to it.”
While transitioning to her new role, Hahn has had to deal with some challenging issues and make decisions that affect the business and its employees.
An employee wellness program has been implemented, and Hahn is working on increasing the company’s level of community service.
While her father remains with BSGI as CEO, “Community service is huge for me,” she said. Hahn is largely responsible for the day-to-day “My parents were always very generous and giving, operations of the company. Hahn’s company, and that culture of giving has been passed along SAH, a commercial and residential security firm, to me. And, it’s really important for our employees, will be merging with BSGI. especially the millennials. They care tremendously about giving back to the community.” The transition in leadership began three years ago when Yerger asked his daughter to join in a While her father takes less of a role in the daily manager’s meeting for BSGI. running of the business, he remains supportive of his daughter’s ideas and efforts. Hahn agreed and joined the manager’s group. Hahn also finds support from the Berks Family “This was the ideal situation as far as my father Business Alliance (FBA), a group established was concerned,” Hahn said. “Others had offered in 2014 by the Greater Reading Chamber of are and what they’re experiencing,” Langiotti said. to buy the company, but he really wanted to keep Commerce & Industry. Berks FBA was founded “The manner in which these people come together it in the family.” as the Chamber encountered more and more and establish trust is extraordinary.” members either requesting assistance with chalIt made sense for her to take over the operations lenges they were facing within their businesses “So, there are specific opportunities, but also of BSGI, Hahn said, because she fully understood or sharing “war” stories about things that had specific challenges, and it helps to be able to how the business worked and had decades of gone wrong due to family infighting or serious interact with others who understand what you’re experience managing her own company in an disagreements about succession planning. With going through,” she said. “People appreciate that overlapping business. the numbers of family-run enterprises facing they have colleagues who are there to offer help owners who are aging (baby boomers), making up and advice.” “The neat thing about the businesses is that a majority of 1st generation ownership, America there’s a lot of synergy between them,” Hahn is facing a serious problem. Hahn said she will continue to rely on the explained. “I’ve worked pretty closely with my Berks FBA as she works to grow BSGI, with the father over the years and I really understood “We know Berks FBA can assist businesses thought in the back of her mind that one of her what his business was about. I wasn’t coming in before it’s too late. With the resources behind this three children might be interested in taking over without knowledge of the business.” initiative, we are prepared to assist our business the business someday. community,” said Karen Marsdale, President & Hahn’s husband, Luke, is a long-term employee CEO of the Chamber. “If that happens, it would be lovely,” Hahn said. of BSGI, taking the family-owned business theme “But there’s no entitlement involved. They would to another level. Luke Hahn is a member of one of the FBA’s need to be well qualified for whatever position professionally facilitated peer groups, while his wife they would have here. I worked for 28 years to “Turning the business off when we’re at home attends events intended to support family-owned prepare for the job I’m doing now, and they would is very difficult,” Hahn said. “Luke worked for my businesses. need to be similarly qualified.” father even before we were married.” “Berks FBA has given us the ability to listen to Meanwhile, Hahn will continue to look to Hahn has worked long hours as she navigates others’ stories and to gauge how we’re doing certain family members and other business people in her new position, and is making some changes things,” Beth Hahn said. “It makes us think about the community for advice and support. to BSGI. whether there are things we need to change. And, it helps us to know that other businesses experience “I’m very blessed to have my dad and my husShe has initiated a new branding program the same kinds of challenges that we do.” band involved in the company, and my mother for the business, and has made changes to the knows a lot about the business too, so she’s a office space. That type of interaction and camaraderie are the good sounding board,” Hahn said. “With their basis for the FBA, explained Pat Langiotti, PMC, help and the community we find with the FBA “That let our employees know that we were President of Creative Management Concepts, and other family-business owners, I think we’re moving forward,” she said. “We had new leadership who serves on the FBA Advisory Council and going to be just fine.” and we weren’t going to remain stagnant.” facilitates a peer group. The company is working on implementing behavioral standards with the goal of establishing a uniform brand of customer service.
“People in family-owned businesses come to the peer groups or to the FBA events and find that there are other people who truly get where they berkswomen2women.com 35
Work2Life
Learning and Engaging Through FBA Peer Groups By Susan Shelly
A
n integral part of the Berks Family Business Alliance (FBA), managed by the Greater Reading Chamber, is its profesPaula Barrett sionally facilitated peer groups, said Paula Barrett, leader of RKL’s Business Consulting Services Group and who also facilitates one of the groups. “There currently are three professionally facilitated peer groups meeting and a fourth group is forming,” said Karen Marsdale, President & CEO of the Chamber. Karen Marsdale Peer groups are limited to 12 members. Only one family member per company is permitted to be in the same group, and there cannot be representatives from competing businesses within the same group.
Response to the peer groups has been enthusiastic, said Marsdale. “A big part of the success of the peer groups has been the fact that we have very knowledgeable and Pat Langiotti, experienced facilitators: Paula Barrett, Chet Mosteller, President of Mosteller & Associates, and Pat Langiotti, PMC, President of Creative Management Concepts.” A fourth group is also forming. Members of family-owned businesses face particular challenges that may be difficult for other business people to understand, explained Barrett. 36 Women2Women Fall 2016
“Family businesses not only deal with business challenges, they also deal with the emotion of family relationships and the history and experiences they’ve been through,” she said. “It can be hard to keep those things separate from the business.” Other issues that come up in family-owned businesses could be that a family member feels entitled to a particular position or salary Elaine McDevitt level because of family connection, or doesn’t want to follow company rules, said Elaine McDevitt, CEO of the Rose Corporation. There also could be disagreement about whether or not to keep the business in the family or to sell it. “These are all challenges that can cause Thanksgiving dinner to be very uncomfortable unless guidelines are discussed and agreed to early,” McDevitt said.
Meghan Helinak, operations manager at M.J. Reider Associates, Inc., said her peer group has been tremendously helpful to her for several reasons. One reason is that Meghan Helinak they include people of varying ages with varying levels of business experience. “The spectrum of feedback is really helpful,” Helinak said. “You have people who are transitioning in and out of a business and who have very different perspectives.” Also, said Helinak, the group provides space for honest and open discussion in a safe and secure environment. She also appreciates that there sometimes is structured discussion within the group, while other time is left for free conversation. Helinak’s mother, Barbara Reider Coyle, owns and serves as president of M.J. Reider.
Having a safe place to discuss these types of problems with others who have been through similar experiences can be crucial. “The peer groups are a fantastic resource for family businesses. There was a real need for this type of peer engagement in our community,” said Langiotti. We talked to some women who work in family businesses and are members of the FBA peer groups to hear what they had to say.
Sabrena Archie Elmarzouky
Sabrena Archie Elmarzouky, manager of Queen City Family Restaurant, said the peer groups provide the opportunity to share ideas and problems, and that she’s learned much from other members.
“What I think is a problem that is unique to me turns out be a problem that someone else has already experienced,” said Elmarzouky. “I’ve found that I can learn a lot from people who have been through the same types of things that I’m going through.”
She also has learned that having difficult conversations within a family business is not easy, but sometimes necessary.
SHURR & COMPANY, P.C.
Certified Public Accountants
“Having courageous conversations is very important, and something that is stressed within my peer group,” she said. “There’s a way to have those conversations that makes them more productive and better received.” Queen City Family Restaurant is owned by Sabrena’s father, Elsayed “Steve” Elmarzouky. Heather Everson, business manager at Zee Medical, Inc., is fairly new to working in the family business owned by her husband, Walter, and founded by Walter’s father. She and Walter both participate in an FBA peer group, and she finds the experience to be very helpful. Heather Everson
“It’s helpful for me because I’m sort of new to running a family business day to day,” she said. “It’s a good opportunity to bounce ideas off of people who are in a similar situation, but who may have more experience than I do.” Lisa Lavender is the chief operating officer of Berks Fire & Water Restoration, a business she co-founded with her husband, Ted, who serves as president and chief executive officer.
Beth A. Shurr, CPA, MT, CSEP
ph: 610.678.1220 // fx: 610.743.8440 // cell: 610.587.7042 email: beth@shurrcpa.com // web: ShurrCPA.com 1020 James Dr., Ste. 103, Leesport, PA 19533
Lisa Lavender
She appreciates both the informative nature of the peer group meetings and the camaraderie that has developed among group members. “I like it when we address an issue such as succession planning or methods for growing a business because it keeps issues that related to family businesses at the forefront,” Lavender said. “It makes you think about things that you might not otherwise consider.”
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And, the peer group provides a place for sharing with likeminded people. “Sometimes it’s just a nice break,” Lavender said. “It makes you take time off and engage in positive conversation with some nice people.”
Openings are still available in the peer group currently forming. Anyone interested in joining should contact Kim Musko at kmusko@greaterreadingchamber.org or 610-898-7778.
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berkswomen2women.com 37
Health2 Wellness
Mental, Spiritual, Physical Health & Wellness
The Treatment of
Addiction By William Santoro, M.D., Reading Health System
As mothers, daughters, sisters and wives we are often the primary care givers in our families. With this in mind we believe it’s important to deliver information to stay in front of issues that impact our families. We hope you agree! W2W
THE WORD “ADDICT” NO LONGER HAS A PLACE IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. I know that many people will use that term as a badge of honor. But the word is most often used as a derogatory comment and, therefore, it is still not an appropriate word. To say someone is an “addict” is to say that person IS the disease as opposed to someone HAVING a disease. When attempting to open a drug and alcohol treatment facility I have heard more than once a community member say, “We don’t want you bringing those ‘addicts’ into our neighborhood.” It is a much more powerful statement than, “We don’t want you bringing people addicted to drugs into our neighborhood.” We all need to think about the words we use and why we use them. We not only need to stop using the word, we need to stop believing the concept of the word. To quote the famous American philosopher and physician William James, “A great many people think they are thinking when they are merely rearranging their prejudices.” William Santoro, M.D.
T
he treatment of addiction, like every other field of medicine, is (and should be) in a constant state of evolution. First some definitions: opiates are naturally occurring alkaloids derived from the opium poppy. Examples of opiates are heroin, morphine and codeine. Opioids are synthetic or partially synthetic drugs that are manufactured to work in a similar way to opiates. Examples of opioids are methadone, oxycodone and hydrocodone. Today the two terms, opiates and opioids, are often used interchangeably.
The face of opiate addiction has changed over history. Opiates were used in the Civil War to treat pain from injuries received on the battlefield. From the Civil War until recently society has looked upon people addicted to opiates as people with a moral failure rather than a disease. The Harrison Narcotic Act of 1914 effectively moved addiction to opiates from the medical field to the legal arena when it made it illegal for a physician to 38 Women2Women Fall 2016
treat a patient addicted to opiates with another opiate. Opiate/Opioid use disorder is an illness that affects the social, legal and medical fabric of life and may sometimes result in death. With no effective medical treatment of this illness, the only treatments to flourish were non-medical. Narcotics Anonymous was founded in 1948 and is based on the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous. While Narcotics Anonymous and other non-medical based treatments have been effective for some, the vast majority of patients addicted to opiates relapses back to their drug of choice and begin on a revolving door of “use-treatment-short term sobriety-relapse.” While independent studies have shown a drop out rate as high as 90 %, some well-intentioned programs continue to preach a program of sobriety based on a system that has worked for the members within the program and quote statistics such as having 80 to 100 % success rates if the patients follow their program. The catch being
those who relapse do not count as a failure of the program, but rather a failure of not following the program. Relapse prevention is a crucial component of effective treatment. Recovery has biological (medical), psychological, sociological and spiritual components that need to be addressed to achieve a full and functioning life. As healthcare providers we have an obligation to positively impact patients’ lives affected by substance use disorder. HISTORY OF METHADONE German scientists seeking a new analgesic that was less addicting than morphine created methadone during World War II. Methadone is a synthetic opiate and acts as a mu-opioid receptor agonist. Methadone attaches to the receptor and activates it in the same way as every other opiate. However, methadone’s gradual onset and long half-life limits the euphoric effects. Research by Dole, Nyswander and Kreek in the late 1960’s showed its efficacy for opiate addiction. The original studies were done utilizing a blocking dose: a dose that, if other opiates were used, would block the euphoric effect of the illicit drugs. In 1971 the federal government set up regulations, and methadone clinics began treating opiate dependent patients.
Methadone maintenance programs have been shown to be the most effective means for treating heroin addiction. The term maintenance is used because the goal is to maintain the patient on methadone to help the patient avoid the negative and often severe effects of opiate withdrawal. Methadone maintenance treatment views opiate addiction as a disease rather than a psychological disorder or character fault. Numerous studies have looked at methadone maintenance programs and a majority of them have concluded that methadone maintenance reduces narcotic related deaths, crime, the spread of STD’s (including HIV and Hepatitis-C) and helps patients gain control of their lives. Although methadone is intended to treat opiate addiction, it is also an extremely physically addictive drug. If not properly adjusted by experienced physicians, it can be dangerous and can cause death. When adjusted slowly and properly, the induction of a patient onto methadone maintenance can achieve the desired results of the patient abstaining from opioid use while not causing unacceptable side effects such as “nodding out” (falling asleep at inappropriate times). When tapered slowly and properly, withdrawal of methadone can be
accomplished with minimal symptoms. On the other hand, if induction is done too quickly in an attempt to alleviate all cravings of illicit opioids, overdose, “nodding out” and death due to respiratory depression may occur. Correspondingly, if methadone is withdrawn too quickly, or if methadone is stopped abruptly, the methadone withdrawal symptoms can be more severe, and significantly longer, than heroin withdrawal and can cause death. A well-run methadone program should have a medical director board certified in Addiction Medicine. A good program will not only meet, but will consistently exceed, the government’s minimum requirements for counseling and urine testing. The dose of methadone should be carefully titrated for each individual. Although, when starting a methadone maintenance program, patients have to come in every day and be witnessed taking their medication, over time they may earn the privilege of receiving a dose of methadone to take home for the next day. A maximum of six “take-homes” in one week can be earned. It should be stressed that “take-homes” are a privilege, not a right or a guarantee. Patients must demonstrate that they are stable on their dose, attend counseling, and Continued on page 40
berkswomen2women.com 39
Health2Wellness approved as an injection in April 2006 for alcohol use disorder and in October 2010 for opioid use disorder. As an opioid antagonist, naltrexone occupies the mu opioid receptors in the brain, blocking the euphoric effects of opiates for up to 30 days. While Vivitrol blocks the ability of a patient to attain the euphoric effect from opioids, thereby reducing the risk of relapse, residential and outpatient treatment can provide counseling, 12-step programming and lifestyle changes needed to support long-term addiction recovery. Vivitrol helps patients stay engaged in a drug rehabilitation program, hopefully long enough to develop the skills needed for lifelong recovery. Vivitrol is not an opioid and is non-addictive. Vivitrol has no mood- or mind-altering effects. After an IM Vivitrol can responsibly handle their medication before Buprenorphine has a very strong affinity to injection, the naltrexone plasma concentration has being given a take-home. the mu-receptors but causes only a modest acti- a transient initial peak occurring in approximately vation of the receptors. Activating the mu-opioid 2 hours, followed by a second peak approximately Historically, the dose of methadone given to receptors causes the euphoric effects of an opioid. two or three days later. Approximately 14 days patients had been low, with artificial restrictions in Furthermore, the half-life of buprenorphine is after the initial injection, the concentration slowly place. When the dose restrictions were eliminated, estimated to be between 24 and 96 hours. At declines, with measurable levels lasting greater than the success rate of many programs improved. appropriately used doses, buprenorphine has one month. Because each injection of Vivitrol lasts The success rate of a methadone program is only mild mu-opioid receptor agonist proper- more than one month, it increases the likelihood generally based on the rate of abstinence for ties, while at higher doses it has kappa-opioid of treatment compliance. Vivitrol is generally well patients enrolled for more than 1 year. A well-run receptor antagonist properties. Antagonizing the tolerated with minimal side effects. Vivitrol can, methadone program typically has a success rate kappa-opioid receptors will cause symptoms of and should, be used long-term and often is used of greater than 80%. withdrawal. These properties, a strong affinity with at the end of an inpatient rehabilitation program. only a mild activation of the mu-opioid receptors, Because it is not an opioid, Vivitrol is often the HISTORY OF BUPRENORPHINE kappa-opioid receptor antagonism at high doses first step into MAT. This may come from past No further medical advancement in the and a long half-life, allow buprenorphine prod- belief that using a medication to treat a substance field of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) ucts to be used once a day to minimize opiate use disorder is simply replacing one addiction with became available until 2001. Buprenorphine withdrawals without causing any appreciable another. This is far from true when any MAT is was first developed in the late 1970’s. It is a euphoria. These properties also put a limit on the properly used. Because of its short history, the semi-synthetic opioid and was first developed dosing of the medication. Regardless of how success rate of Vivitrol is still being determined. as an injectable form of pain medication. It much buprenorphine is available, the mu-opioid was shown to have only moderate pain relieving receptor will not be activated further, so increasing DECIDING WHICH TREATMENT properties, but later was proven to be an effective the dose will not give any increased euphoria. On Different treatment programs are appropriate treatment for opiate dependence. the other hand, increasing the dose beyond the for different patient populations, and of course recommended amount will cause the kappa-opioid there is overlap. Naturally, a non-medical based In 2001 buprenorphine in combination with receptors to be antagonized, causing symptoms program would be appropriate for patients who naloxone, trade name Suboxone, was approved of withdrawal. have never attempted any treatment before. for the treatment of opiate dependence by the Patients and providers should consider MAT when passage of the DATA 2000 Act. The first forHaving a shorter history and trying to account a non-medical based program has been shown mulation was a sublingual tablet (later a sublingual for individual program differences, it is difficult to be insufficient to keep a patient in sobriety. strip). Buprenorphine is the active pharmaceutical to assess the success rate of buprenorphine as a agent. Naloxone is only minimally absorbed treatment. Accepting that many define success It is not unreasonable to consider a more when used as directed. Naloxone is a pure opioid based on a combination of retention in treatment potent MAT if a patient is still not able to remain antagonist. The purpose of having naloxone in and abstinence of illicit drug use for at least one in sobriety using Vivitrol. Buprenorphine and the product is to prevent the patient from using year, some independent studies place the success methadone maintenance are replacement treatthe medication in a manner not intended. If the rate of buprenorphine between 25 and 50%. ments for opioid use disorder. Buprenorphine product is used in a way other than sublingually, the may be used by a physician, after proper training naloxone will be absorbed and displace all other HISTORY OF NALTREXONE and certification, on patients addicted to opioids opioids, including illicit opioids and prescribed Naltrexone, as an injection called Vivitrol, is who have not been successful using other treatment buprenorphine, causing severe opioid withdrawal, the most recent medication to be approved for programs, or even as a first line treatment after known as precipitated withdrawal. the treatment of opiate dependence. It was a discussion with the patient concerning all the 40 Women2Women Fall 2016
other options available. Well-run buprenorphine programs will incorporate close follow up, random urine drug testing and outpatient counseling along with buprenorphine. The dose and frequency of office visits should be adjusted to the individual’s need. Measures should be in place to minimize the risk of diversion, such as random callbacks for medication counts and urine drug testing. The program should be set up using an interdisciplinary model including the physician, counseling and, where necessary, social services.
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A patient who has tried unsuccessfully to achieve sobriety using non-medical programs and first-line MAT programs like Vivitrol and buprenorphine should be considered for referral to a methadone maintenance program. Methadone maintenance should always be considered long-term. Most program directors consider long-term to be a minimum of 2 years and possibly lifetime. The federal government very strictly monitors methadone programs and the number of patients permitted into each program. Among other criteria, to be eligible for admission a patient must be 18 years of age and opioid dependent for more than one year. Pregnant women and patients who are HIV positive are accepted even if they do not meet criteria for admission and even if there are no places available. FINAL WORD Whether a patient is in a Vivitrol, buprenorphine or methadone program, the treatment is called “medication assisted treatment.” Although methadone programs are the only ones mandated to deliver specific amounts of counseling, other MAT programs need to understand the value of treatment beyond medication. Likewise, non-medical based treatment programs need to learn to accept MAT programs as partners in the treatment of this disease. MAT and non-medical based treatment programs need to keep in mind that both have the same goals: treating a person with a chronic, relapsing disease in hopes that the person can live a fully functional life. MAT and non-medical based treatment programs will undoubtedly fail if opioid use disorder is treated as an acute disease rather than the chronic relapsing disease that it is. Psychological, social, nutritional and spiritual counseling are important components of every MAT and non-medical treatment program. When treating a patient with any substance use disorder the provider needs to treat the entire patient and even the entire family, not an isolated illness. Kuhn, C. Swartzwelder, S. and Wilson, W. (1998). Buzzed; The Straight Facts about the Most Used and Abused Drugs from Alcohol to Ecstasy. W.W. Norton and Company: New York, NY. Lyman, MD and Potter, G.W. (1998). Drugs in Society: Causes, Concepts and Control. Anderson Publishing: Cincinnati, OH.
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Inciardi, J.A. and Harrison, L.D. (2000). Harm Reduction: National and International Perspectives. Sage Publications: Thousand Oaks, CA. National Institute on Drug Abuse. “NIDA Research and SAMHSA Physician Training Combine to Put Care for Opiate Dependence in Hands of Family Doctor”, October 9, 2002. Weiss, MD et. al. Adjunctive Counseling During Brief and Extended Buprenorphine-Naloxone Treatment for Prescription Opioid Dependence. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2011; 68(12):1238-1246. Minozz i, Amato, Vecchi, Davoli, Kirchmayer, Verster. Published April 13, 2011. http://www.cochrane.org/CD001333/ADDICTN_oral-naltrexone-as-maintenance-treatment-toprevent-relapse-in-opioid-addicts-who-have-undergone-detoxification
The LASIK Eye Center LASIKdoneRight.com
Dr. Santoro has been Board Certified in Addiction Medicine since 1989 and Family Medicine since 1985. In 2014 he was named Chief of the Section of Substance Use Disorder in the Reading Health System. He has been the Medical Director of New Directions Treatment Services, a methadone maintenance treatment program, since 1999. He has also been the Medical Director of the Reading Hospital & Medical Center Drug and Alcohol Program since 1989. He runs outpatient treatment programs using buprenorphine and naltrexone.
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berkswomen2women.com 41
Health2Wellness
Every Moment Counts WHEN IT COMES TO TREATING SEPSIS By Debra L. Powell, MD
Chief, Section of Infectious Diseases, Reading Health System
Dr. Debra L. Powell, MD, Chief, Section of Infectious Diseases, at Reading Hospital helps diagnose and treat patients with sepsis, a serious medical condition that can be fatal for elderly patients and anyone with a compromised immune system.
Sepsis is a serious medical condition caused by an overwhelming immune response to infection. According to national statistics, as many as 1.6 million people are diagnosed with sepsis every year. 42 Women2Women Fall 2016
S
epsis is triggered by other medical conditions such as a serious infection or the introduction of bacteria during an invasive procedure.
When a person is septic, the body releases immune chemicals into the blood to combat the infection. These chemicals trigger widespread inflammation, which can result in impaired blood flow that deprives the body’s organs of nutrients and oxygen. Sepsis is a serious condition that can be fatal, particularly in elderly people or for a person at any age with a compromised immune system. Early stages of sepsis can be difficult to diagnose, because sepsis symptoms – fever, fast heart rate, respiratory distress and confusion, particularly in elderly patients – are found in other conditions as well.
Statistics show that treating sepsis within the first few hours of symptoms is critical for saving lives. Reading Hospital has implemented a standardized protocol for rapidly treating sepsis – even before we are certain the person has sepsis. These guidelines have enhanced the hospital’s ability to save lives, reduce hospital stays and improve patient outcomes. In our Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and other areas of the hospital, the protocol calls for immediately treating for sepsis if a patient has two of these four symptoms: fever, fast heart rate, trouble breathing, or high white blood cell count in blood work. The protocol provides specific steps to follow for initial treatment. National data indicates that when antibiotics are given within the first three
Threats
hours and IV fluids are given within the first six hours of sepsis symptoms, patient outcomes improve significantly. When sepsis is suspected, the Reading Hospital protocol calls for initially administering a strong antibiotic to cover every type of infection. After blood tests, urine tests and possibly X-rays or Computerized Tomography (CT) scans have been conducted and physicians have identified the source of the infection, specific antibiotics that best treat that specific bacteria are given. Reading Hospital implemented a Sepsis Clinical Effectiveness Team that evaluates ways to drive early identification and treatment of sepsis. Since the team’s initial clinical improvements were implemented, including the use of the sepsis protocol, Reading Hospital has seen a significant reduction in sepsis patients’ length of stay and hospital costs related to sepsis patients as well as a reduction in sepsis patient mortality. Nationally, the reduction of sepsis mortality is trending in the right direction as well. A national campaign, the Surviving Sepsis Campaign, has helped reduce mortality rates from 46 percent to 29 percent for people diagnosed with the condition. As healthcare facilities standardize care for patients with sepsis, what can the public do? It is important for each of us to know the signs and symptoms of sepsis and to seek treatment – or help friends or family members seek treatment – when sepsis symptoms arise. Every moment counts, and together, we can reduce the potentially devastating effects of sepsis for people in our community.
1.
Heart Disease
2. Cancer 3 . Stroke 4. COPD (Emphysema & chronic bronchitis) 5. Alzheimer’s 6. Diabetes 7.
Kidney Disease
8.
BLOOD POISONING-SEPTICEMIA
9.
Anxiety Disorders/Depression
10. Osteoporosis List compiled from Everyday Health, Fox News, Office on Women’s Health, Del Mar Times and Hopkins Medicine.
berkswomen2women.com 43
Health2Wellness
Easy MidWeek Meal PlanniNG for the family By Tracie Barrett
Research & Development Chef, Sweet Street
BECAUSE EVERY BUSY MOM WANTS TO GET GOOD FOOD ON THE DINNER TABLE FAST!
44 Women2Women Fall 2016
S
chool is back in session! Between packing school lunches, getting to and from soccer practice, and oh yeah, that job you have, it can be seriously challenging to get a satisfying and healthy dinner on the table every night. Your best bet against weeknight dinner stress is to plan in advance, shop once a week, and have an arsenal of quick and easy recipes ready to go, because we all know finding the time to cook can feel impossible. Rely on family favorites and meals you are comfortable making. Sure you can try a new recipe but it’s important to keep it simple. Less ingredients and less prep time is key for speed and efficiency, not to mention less dishes! Know your limitations and save gourmet meals for the weekend when you have more time.
TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND THAT CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE Make a meal plan every week. This can seem like a daunting task, but once you have your system in place you will save on time and money, eat healthier and have extra free time to spend with your family. If you’re going to have success with this you must make the commitment to meal plan.
Keep it simple. Don’t get yourself overwhelmed and attempt to plan a meal for every night of the week. Start with 4 or 5 meals in the beginning and allow yourself to have leftovers for a few nights in between. Choose approachable recipes with few ingredients and little preparation time. Use seasonal ingredients as your inspiration. Shop on Sundays and prep on Sundays. For me this is a key to time management. One day a week at the grocery store is all you need to get prepared. Know the short cuts and don’t be ashamed to use them. There are many pre-prepared ingredients available at the supermarket that will help you save on time. Take advantage, you can’t do it all. Cook once, eat twice. Double a recipe and freeze half for another time. Or double a recipe and save the extras for packed-lunches. Engage the kids and get the entire family involved. More cooks the better.
Soup & Sammies Who doesn’t love a comEASY MEAL IDEAS… Make your own Tacos Taco night is a favor- forting soup and a sammie? Not all soups require ite in my house. It’s fun and interactive, plus a long low simmer to develop depth of flavor. a great opportunity to offer variety to your There are plenty of quick soups to make that are family. Serve soft corn, crunchy corn and flour just as satisfying. No matter what soup I end up tortillas. Choose a protein or two and all the making I always make plenty. Double the recipe accoutrements that make tacos great….cabbage and have extra on hand for lunches and leftovers slaw, shredded lettuce, radishes, avocados, salsa, or freeze for a later use. During the fall season roasted corn, sour cream, shredded cheese, black my family and I love tomato bisque with a classic beans, jalapeños, cilantro and lime wedges. It’s a grilled cheese. fiesta! No worries, you’ll have plenty of leftovers Rotisserie Chicken Whole rotisserie chickens that can easily be converted into taco salads for can be found in most supermarkets these days another night in the week. at a reasonable price. It’s delicious, economical & can be used for several meals throughout Make your own Pizza A kid-friendly favorite the week. Plus it’s an easy way to bring prothat is super easy plus premade pizza shells are tein to the table. It’s my go-to for almost readily available for purchase which cuts the prep everything…chicken salad, tacos, soups time down to nothing. I recommend buying and pot pies. individual pizza shells, that way everyone can make their own. Pick a variety of toppings such as pepperoni, prosciutto, peppers, onions, mushrooms, artichokes, fresh mozzarella, ricotta cheese, pesto, fresh herbs, etc. You get the idea, anything goes. Tailor to your family’s preferences. Serve with a hearty adult-friendly kale caeser salad and dinner is complete! Everyone will be happy. Fish in a Flash Fish baked in parchment paper is a classic and easy method of steaming fish in one little package that yields juicy tender results. In fact, your entire meal is assembled into the parchment pack. It’s absolutely genius! Recipe not required. Choose your favorite fish, add a medley of julienne veggies and herbs such as carrots, peppers, zucchini, green onion, parsley, basil or chives and a zest of citrus. Top with a pad of butter and season with salt and pepper. Place packets on a baking sheet and bake in a 400’F oven for 15 minutes. Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread.
how to fold your parchment paper
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ECIPE R IE P T O P N CHICvKeEs 6 Ser
S INGREDIENT
TOMA
ServeTsO BISQUE RECIP E 6
INGREDIENT
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2 tables poons o f olive o ½ mediu il m onion 2 small carrots 4 garlic cloves Salt & p epper to taste 2 cups c hicken b (or vegg roth ie broth if preferr 28 oz. c ed) an of dic ed toma (I like th e fire-ro toes asted or 1 teaspo Italian st yle varie on agav ty) e nectar 1 tables poon of to m ato paste ½ cup of heavy c ream Handful of fresh basil
METHOD
1. Roug hly chop onions, Sautee carrots in olive and garl oil, seas ic. and coo on with k until o s a lt/peppe n ions are & slightl r, soft y caram elized. 2. Add c hicken b roth. Bri then cov ng to a b er and re oil, duce to for 15 m a simme inutes o r r u n til carro are tend ts er. 3. Add d iced tom atoes, a tomato gave ne paste. M ctar, and ix to com off heat. bine the With an n turn immers puree s ion blen oup to d der esire co nsistenc 4 Add h y. eavy cre am and Basil. A roughly djust se chopped asoning if neede 5. Serve d. warm w ith a garn basil an ish of sh d a drizz redded le of oliv e oil.
utter salted b oons un p s e ic le d b 4 ta , small m onion e iu d ic e d m ll a ½ , sm carrots ll dice 3 small ry, sma le e s, c f o s lk ushroom 2 sta itake m h s d e c ½ cup sli moved stems re to taste pepper Salt and e flour -purpos ¼ cup all roth b hicken 3 cups c n peas e re chicken g ozen tisserie ro d e ½ cup fr p ount) p o this am ough ch ly ill yield w 3 cups r n aves on e k le , thyme erie chic h s s s e ti fr ro d (1 oppe y) poon ch ff pastr et. 1 tables ing she st (or pu ru c ie n a bak p o d s e k in a k e Pre-b ize)ram 6 (6oz-s rrange a d n a es F ry and ots, cele METHOD oven to 400 degre nt. ns, carr io t n a ansluce o e tr d h 1. Pre eat. Ad soft and h l ti m n u iu d e. er me nd sauté Set asid o until e pot ov epper a ute or tw in a larg in h salt/p r it e m tt w a u n r b o as Cook fo 2. Melt oms. Se hly coat. mushro 5 thoroug to shitake ll about 1 e d stir w mer for n a im s r u a o ce to 3. Add fl en redu . olden. a boil, th mbined to g n ri lightly g b l well co , ti th n u ro b ix yme. M ins. chicken n and th l ramek kened. 4. Stir in dividua , chicke ntil thic s in u a r 6 e o n p g s n n amo gree rger tha minute e evenly eat. Add lightly la id h s iv m s d o le n fr c e ve rge cir ded th 5. Remo cut 6 la g if nee ges easonin ace and outer ed s rf t u s s ju d d re ugh on A u o o d fl s s a on tly pre ie crust and gen 6. Roll p mekins ra f . o in p k e r the to . the ram uts ove e dough st cut-o ce of th a ru c rf u ie s p nd 7. Lay re onto brown a and the re. golden nts here p e e v to adhe e d le tt is cut li . e crust knife to serving r until th 8. Use a s before te inutes o u m in 0 m 3 ol 10 for 25 to ow to co 9. Bake bbly. All u b is g the fillin
berkswomen2women.com 45
Health2Wellness
Zika Information You Need! By Dr. Meredith Gable
Penn State Health – St. Joseph
HOW IS ZIKA SPREAD? Zika is primarily spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes of the Aedes species. Other forms of transmission include sexual intercourse, blood transfusions, and from a pregnant mother to her fetus.
IS THERE A VACCINE FOR ZIKA?
IS THERE ANY CONCERN FOR MALES? Since there is no gender predominance with the Zika infection as stated above, studies are underway at the CDC to find out how long Zika stays in the semen and vaginal fluids, and how long it can be passed to sex partners.
DO YOU ONLY HAVE TO WORRY No. There is no vaccine or specific med- ABOUT ZIKA IF TRAVELING ication available at this time to prevent or OUTSIDE OF THE US?
treat Zika.
SHOULD NON-PREGNANT WOMEN BE CONCERNED? There is no gender predominance with the Zika infection. Standard precautions for all adults, including pregnant females and children, should be utilized when traveling to endemic areas. You can visit the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov/Zika to find more information on protecting you and your loved ones from Zika.
No. According to the most recent statistics from the CDC, there have been locally acquired cases of Zika primarily in southeast Florida and the US territories of Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ZIKA? The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. Many people that are infected with Zika virus will have minimal to no symptoms. The duration of symptoms is usually a few
days up to a week. It is also important to note that these same symptoms can also be seen in other viruses spread by mosquitoes including Chikungunya and Dengue. However, if Zika infection is acquired during pregnancy, it can cause a birth defect of the fetal brain called microcephaly, which means the baby’s head is smaller than expected when compared to other babies of the same gender and age. Also according to a recent CDC update, there have been other fetal defects reported involving the eye, hearing deficits, and impaired growth, as well as an increased incidence of Guillain-Barre Syndrome in Zika-endemic regions.
HOW IS ZIKA DIAGNOSED? Zika screening can be performed based on a person’s recent travel history and symptoms. Confirmatory testing for Zika infection is available through a blood or urine test. Sources: Center for Disease Control www.cdc/gov/zika
You can visit the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov/Zika to find out more on countries and territories with active Zika virus transmission, and how to protect you and your family from the virus.
46 Women2Women Fall 2016
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Reading aRea Community College
milleR CenteR foR the aRts EXCEPTIONAL PROGRAMMING FOR ALL Join us as we celebrate our 10th anniversary season!
SWEET DREAMS, Film, Rob & Lisa Fruchtman, filmmakers Tuesday, September 27, 6:30 p.m. Remarkable Rwandan women embark on a journey of independence, peace and possibility to open one of their country’s first ever ice cream shop. Presented in partnership with Women2Women. YOU BELONG TO ME, FILM, Jude Hagin, Filmmaker Tuesday, October 25, 6:30 p.m. You Belong to Me is a documentary that tells the 1952 story of Ruby McCollum, an African-American woman who killed a prominent white doctor in Live Oak, Florida on a Sunday morning and the remarkable secrets and terrible truths revealed during her trial and incarceration. Her case haunted jurors and prosecutors for decades. Presented in partnership with Reading Branch NAACP #2289. AGATHA CHRISTIE’S MURDER ON THE NILE, AQUILA THEATRE Friday, October 7, 7:30 p.m. A brilliant new production featuring a masterful “whodunit” and Aquila’s clever signature style. APARNA RAMASWAMY presents “THEY ROSE AT DAWN,” RAGAMALA DANCE COMPANY Friday, October 21, 7:30 PM Acclaimed as one of the Indian Diaspora’s leading dance ensembles, Ragamala Dance Company seamlessly carries the South Indian classical dance form into the 21st century. For tickets and information or to become a Miller Center Member, please contact the Miller Center box office at 610.607.6270, millercenter@racc.edu or visit racc.edu/MillerCenter. Reading Area Community College receives state arts funding support through a grant from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. This season’s programs are generously underwritten by the Miller Center Endowment Fund established by Marlin and Ginger Miller.
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