Women2Women Summer 2015

SUMMER 2015

MAGAZINE

BEING A VOICE in Your Community Young Professionals M A KE LE G I S L ATI V E I M PA CT

MAGAZINE

Contents

SUMMER 2015

Karen Marsdale, Senior Editor • Melissa Varone, Editor Dawn Maurer Derr, Associate Editor 201 Penn Street • Suite 501 • Reading, PA 19601 berkswomen2women.com • 610.376.6766

wORK2LIFE

Women2Women Advisory Council Alexa S. Antanavage Margarita M. Caicedo Vicki O. Ebner Kim Hippert-Eversgerd Nancy Hoban Karen Marsdale

Julia Nickey Mary Jean Noon Michele Richards Matilde Rodriguez Sotomayor, MD Connie Skipper

Women2Women, managed by the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, encourages women to create connections, gain knowledge, open doors and build strategic alliances, and much more.

Our goal is to create more women leaders in Berks County by providing a forum where women from diverse backgrounds can learn, share ideas and mentor each other. Membership is free and open to all women of Berks County.

Women2Women Magazine is a publication of the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

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Platinum Sponsors Alvernia University Penske Truck Leasing Reading Eagle Company Reading Health System Santander Bank Savage Dodge, Inc. Susquehanna Bank VF Outlet Center Gold Sponsors BCTV Baker Tilly Berks County Bar Association Berks County Living Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store Bellco Federal Credit Union Boscov’s Department Store, Inc. Carpenter Technology Corporation First Priority Bank Fulton Bank—Great Valley Division Herbein+Company, Inc. Leisawitz Heller Lords & Ladies Salon & Medical Spa M & T Bank National Penn Bank RKL LLP Riverfront Federal Credit Union Sweet Street Desserts, Inc. Tompkins VIST Bank Wyomissing Hair Studio The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

For Advertising Opportunities: call 610.685.0914 Ext. 1 Read W2W Magazine Online at BerksWomen2Women.com

Smoothies, Juices, & Cleanses...Oh My!

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You Can’t Fake Fitness!

Being a Voice in Your Community

10

Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today

12

The Power of the Purse — Benefiting Our Community

To join: W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org

Title Sponsors Penn State Health St. Joseph Wells Fargo

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Women2Know

Stay connected: BerksWomen2Women.com Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women LinkedIn: Berks Women2Women

Health2Wellness

Growth2Go 14

16

32 Women as Caregivers

Young Professionals Make Legislative Impact

35

Women Face Higher Risk of Stroke

Perceptions About…

The Female Car Professional & Buyer

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Hormones. Let’s Talk About Them

18

From Concept to Reality

40

Seasonal Skincare Tips

27

Smart Approach to The Salary Talk…

In Every Issue 4 22

Editor’s Desk Book Club

23 42

W2W Events

46

Idea Exchange

More Women2Know

© 2015 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: (Left to Right) Abaigeal O’Shea, Yvonne Fonte and Sister Janet Henry.

COVER PHOTO BY: Eliza Taylor Photography

Like us at Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women

Editor’s Desk

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here are many women in Berks County who provide Voices in their Community that are behind the scenes. In this issue, we cover three extraordinary women who are quite active with political and community advocacy efforts within their career and volunteerism focus. We felt this was an important topic to cover, and help inspire others, as statistics show that Berks ranks within the lowest percentile of PA counties with women holding political offices.

Eliza Taylor Photography

We note that young professionals are also becoming more engaged in local government.

Our Greater Reading Young Professionals (GRYP) organization encourages all of their members to volunteer on boards and community organizations; run for local government in municipalities; participate in legislative events; become part of a communication strategy to help lobby; attend public meetings; and get out to VOTE on Election Day!

Melissa Varone Editor, Women2Women Magazine Assistant VP, Marketing, Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Women2Women is also hoping to fill a critical role in encouraging coaching and mentoring of our youth. We are happy to report that 300 students were empowered at our Young Leadership Conference, where both young ladies and gentlemen were provided with the tools necessary to become future leaders while being introduced to career opportunities.

Speaking of career opportunities, a local renowned artist and interior designer recently launched a new brand from the simple, yet inspirational message her late father would say every day, “Have Some Fun Today.” I am excited to share her journey and I hope you will learn from the example on how to bring a business from concept to reality.

Another topic of note in our pages this issue covers one of the many areas that working women struggle with…the salary talk and how to approach this daunting topic in the interview and performance review. I think you will find the tips on how to start the conversation very helpful, and hope they may possibly aid you in getting a well-deserved salary or raise.

We also talk about health struggles, as we cover the mystery of hormones. Yes, we are actually talking about hormones! And, our coverage continues with the Ten Top Threats to Women’s Health with #3—Stroke.

Finally, we have included a pull out section with the 2015-2016 Program of Work for Women2Women. Be sure to join us for our 5th Anniversary Celebration on October 1st with a #1 New York Times bestselling author and social media maven Jennifer Weiner. In addition, mark your calendars for all of the great programs. I look forward to seeing you all in the fall!

Cheers!

Melissa Varone Women2Women Magazine EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Dawn Maurer Derr Sunrise Communication

Kristin Golden Mancuso Marketing Consultant

Tracy Hoffmann Hoffmann Publishing Group

Kristen Kramer Wilson School District, Wilson Education Foundation

4 Women2Women Summer 2015

Karen Marsdale Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry Julia Nickey Penn State Health St. Joseph

Connie Skipper Berks County Intermediate Unit Melissa Varone Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Community & Business Profiles, Insights & Highlights

BEING A VOICE in Your Community Karen L. Miller

6 Women2Women Summer 2015

S

ister Janet M. Henry was so happy June 25 when she heard the news that the U.S. Supreme Court by 6–3 vote upheld the federal Affordable Care Act.

Although the 72-year-old Flying Hills resident is politically independent, she supported the law commonly called Obamacare, because she said it gives many more people access to healthcare coverage than they ever had before.

Henry, a Sister of Mercy for 53 years and vice president of mission and ministry at Penn State Health St. Joseph, the former St. Joseph Medical Center, Bern Township, said she periodically lobbies lawmakers in Washington, D.C. and Harrisburg on healthcare issues.

For many women, like Henry, politics and public life seem to be a side dish rather than a main course. More typical of a female involved in politics in Berks County would be activism, a kind of helping others, borne of a desire to see change and work on that.

In a region known for its diversity, Greater Reading has an abundance of cultures, politics and community activism. But when it comes to representation in public office, women lag behind men, particularly in Berks.

According to the Pennsylvania Center for Women and Politics at Chatham University, Berks ranks in the lowest percentile, 0 to 19 percent, in the state of women holding countywide elective offices, along with Lehigh, Carbon, Northumberland, Northampton and Westmoreland counties.

On average, statewide, women hold 19 percent of the local municipal offices, the center says.

Here are the stories of three local women being a voice in their community and how their efforts make a difference.

As an independent, Henry said, “I am going to support the one (legislators) who is going to do the most good for those who have the greatest social and economic challenges.

Sister Janet Henry “It was the right thing to do,” said Henry, a former history teacher, who stated that America was the last first-world country without such health coverage.

She said health care is expensive with cost drivers on numerous fronts—pharmaceutical companies, insurance companies, and hospitals and physicians.

“There are winners and losers,” said Henry, who has a master’s degree in history from the University of Dayton, Ohio, and an MBA from Yale University, New Haven, Conn. “This (business) model has a significantly negative impact on those with the least access to financial resources. I believe the Affordable Care Act lessens inequality.”

Henry described most of her work as focused on teaching, supporting and living the mission and values of the hospital: reverence and respect; integrity; compassion; medical education; and excellence in what they do.

Henry is a director on the board of MD Advantage Insurance Co., Lawrenceville, N.J., and a board member of Mary’s Shelter, 325 S. “It’s not fulltime,” Henry said, shrugging off the task of lobbying, 12th St., a nonprofit agency providing services to pregnant women and she added, “It’s mostly trying to keep up. It’s (Now has) been and their babies. the quietest, not so much stirring since the Affordable Care Act was upheld. There are no hot issues on the table at this time.”

She taught at Cardinal O’Hara High School, Springfield, Delaware County, and Gwynedd-Mercy University, near Philadelphia, where The nun’s philosophy on health care and politics is simple and she received her undergraduate degree. Henry was a fellow of The intertwined: “Health care is not a commodity; it’s a basic human American College of Healthcare Executives. right. All people should have access to quality health care.”

Just in case anyone thinks she learned all her skillful arguing at And while Henry sees that the Affordable Care Act is not per- the universities she attended, the nun is quick to say she and her late fect—she said it still leaves millions of people without healthcare father had differing political views and many spirited discussions. coverage—and it is part of the contentious political environment, it has allowed several million more people to have access to the “We got hot and heavy on many political issues,” she said, rememhealthcare system.

Continued on page 8 berkswomen2women.com 7

Women2Know bering fondly the closeness they also had.

“My father was not a warm and fuzzy guy; he was not emotional, but he was very proud of me.”

She forged ahead at Kutztown University, where she graduated in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in public administration and paralegal studies.

For Yvonne Fonte, 49, it was family first— before her education, before her aspirations, before she worked her way up to an important role in a local legislator’s office.

In 2003, Fonte married Leonard Fonte, retired from Wells Fargo Bank, where he worked for more than 30 years.

A native of Manhattan, Fonte came to Reading and dedicated most of her time to her family.

“I was supposed to go back to school after my husband got his master’s degree, but that didn’t work out and we got a divorce,” Fonte said.

She raised their sons, Andrew and Bryan Yanez, on her own after the divorce.

Fonte received an associate’s degree in general studies in 1996 from Community College of Philadelphia and an associate’s degree in liberal arts in 2009 from Reading Area Community College.

“When I was at Kutztown, I was a nontraditional student and I decided to take a step back and do some things students normally do,” Fonte said. “I went back when my sons were in college.”

As a political science/public administration major, Fonte worked on an election poll worker initiative, helping to get students involved as both poll workers and in the college voter registration movement. When the site coordinator of the federally funded project left, Fonte was selected.

She moved onto internships, including one which has resulted in her job as legislative assistant for state Rep. Mark Rozzi of Muhlenberg Township.

“The state rep in my area, Dante Santoni, was retiring, and my husband is like a chicken hawk about the newspaper, reading it every day, so I said to him, ‘Be on the lookout for candidates announcing because I need campaign experience,’” Fonte said.

He saw Rozzi’s announcement for the seat and she contacted him, asking if he needed help. His campaign manager set up an interview.

Rozzi, now in his second term, later hired Fonte.

Among her activities, Fonte serves on the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce board and is helping to establish the Berks Democratic Women, a chapter of the Pennsylvania Federation of Democratic Women. She also volunteers as a certified tax preparer through the Internal Revenue Service’s VITA program at Berks Encore.

For Fonte’s philosophy, she borrows the words of U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren: “If you don’t have a seat at the table, you’re probably on the menu.”

Fonte added: “The most important thing to be aware of is not what’s being talked about, but what’s not being talked about. It’s not enough to rely on the media, you have to become involved so you know what’s going on behind closed doors.”

Abaigeal “Abby” O’Shea was so busy with student government as a senior at Wilson High School that she didn’t have time for activism.

The irony is not lost on her.

8 Women2Women Summer 2015

O’Shea has too many interests—English, journalism, politics—to commit to a major as a freshman this semester at Georgetown University. But Washington, D.C., the university’s location, is a great launching pad for the 18-year-old political science enthusiast.

“I am a strong feminist,” O’Shea said. “I want to get involved in what I believe in: women’s rights, furthering education in underdeveloped countries, checking out the university’s social justice center and potentially tutoring in D.C. schools.”

Politics may figure in her future as it has for the past four years at Wilson, where she served in various student government seats, including the one next to Superintendent Dr. Rudy Ruth at every school board meeting her senior year.

She helped bring a Mini-Thon to Wilson, a Four Diamonds fundraiser to help patients and families affected by pediatric cancer at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital, raising $23,000 in the first year and $61,000 in the second.

As past president of student government, O’Shea left behind a partially finished project she believes will continue: a blueprint for a flexible schedule for seniors of high conduct and academic standing.

O’Shea started by helping others through reading and education. For her gifted-class project in fifth grade, O’Shea gathered 600 books for students to take home at Reading School District’s 10th and Penn Elementary School.

“I love to read, and have always had books, so it’s hard for me to believe people wouldn’t have access to books at home,” she said.

From that seminal experience grew a four-family project called Books Benefitting Berks and Beyond, or B4, short for the families involved.

Since O’Shea’s seventh-grade year, hers and the Haas, Thiry and Solanki families, from the Lower Heidelberg Township area, collected more than 10,000 books to be given away. She organizes the books and the unfinished Solanki guesthouse warehouses them.

This is grassroots advocacy, O’Shea-style.

Article Photography by: Eliza Taylor Photography

berkswomen2women.com 9

Women2Know

Building Tomorrow’s Leaders

…Today

Ellen Albright, Communications Coordinator– Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry

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00 Berks County students were empowered and inspired for their bright futures at the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s inaugural Young Leadership Conference Series: “Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today” at Penn State Berks in the spring of this year. Tenth and eleventh grade students from 14 schools across the County were provided with the tools necessary to become confident leaders among their peers, while having the opportunity to hear

10 Women2Women Summer 2015

This student—focused event received generous community support from the following Chamber members: Title Sponsor—VISIONS Federal Credit Union; Sustaining Sponsor—Alcon, a Novartis Company; Conference Champions—M&T Bank, Boy Scouts Hawk Mountain Council, Comcast, The Friends of the Reading Hospital, Freedom Auto Group, Penske, and Community Partners—Remcon Plastics, Cambridge-Lee Industries, LLC. Many of these companies sent employees to mentor the students during the networking luncheon, representing both traditional and non-traditional careers, providing the students with a broad understanding of careers available locally.

from keynote speakers and panel sessions, also enjoying a networking luncheon with mentors from the business community. Students were divided into two tracks—a young men’s and a young women’s track, both with the theme of leadership and career exploration.

The Young Women’s track, co-chaired by myself and Dr. Linda Matthews, Consultant, rotated students through six different sessions: Yes, You Can Afford that Dress! Plan It: Prom!

(Prepared by Title Sponsor, VISIONS Federal Credit Union); Leading Ladies: Using Your

Voice; Brand Yourself: Make an Impression; Never too Early to Start: Mapping your Way to Success; Possibilities in STEM; and Navigating Your Skills and Passions to Find your Career Path. The young women heard from the incredibly uplifting keynote speaker, Kim Helton, Bureau of Workforce Planning Development and Equal Employment Opportunity, PA Office of Administration, who shared with the girls the qualities of being a leader. Many of the young women quoted Kim in their post-event surveys recalling, “You can’t be a good leader if you don’t serve others,” and “go confidently in the direction of your dreams.”

The Young Men’s track, co-chaired by Eric Savage, Freedom Auto Group, and Rick Wolf, Governor Mifflin School District, included the following sessions: Finding Your Vision; Setting Your Goals; Embracing Your Vision; You Can Afford to Go: Plan It! (Prepared

by Title Sponsor, VISIONS Federal Credit Union); and also included Career Exploration Case Studies with panelists from the business

community in seven different career areas.

Keynote speakers included a recorded video from John Hoke, VP of Global Design, Nike, Inc. to set the tone for the day, as well as Dr. Khalid Mumin, Superintendent of Reading School District, and Major General John L. Gronski, United States Army. Nick Reyes, an eleventh-grader at Reading High School, commented on the benefit of the conference—“It helped me recognize my future goal of becoming a scientist and helping people to find cures for deadly illnesses like cancer,” Nick said. “I plan on taking chemistry and other science classes next year, so when I make it into college I am more prepared for the classes. The conference also helped me with upcoming problems, like how to budget and pay for prom or narrowing down a career field.”

Now more than ever, it is crucial for local businesses to take an active role in the development and mentorship of students exploring their career opportunities. Empowering students with hands-on, real-world opportunities to network and shadow professionals working in industries they are considering can help students to navigate the ever-broadening world of work, also assisting them in determining what post-secondary option may best fit their interests. The Chamber is a strong advocate for workforce initiatives in the community and partners with many organizations, schools, and programs to ensure a prepared workforce for our region. Please consider volunteering for one of our many programs in the 2015–2016 school year serving as a mentor, facilitator, or presenter.

To view the list of workforce volunteer opportunities, visit: www.greaterreadingvoice.com, or contact Gail Landis at 610.898.7773 or glandis@greaterreadingchamber.org. berkswomen2women.com 11

Women2Know

The Power of the Purse — Benefiting Our Community Kristin Kramer

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es, a purse can be a powerful fashion statement. Arriving at an event with the “right” bag may draw attention. But what if women combined “purses” to make a positive difference in the lives of women and girls in the community. Chiara Sockel Renninger helped establish “The Power of the Purse” in Greater Reading to do just that!

Chiara, a Berks native who graduated from Governor Mifflin High School and Bucknell University, moved back to the area in 2001.

She volunteered in the community and served as an assistant basketball coach at Governor Mifflin, but she was looking to do more.

“I wanted a way to interact with other women, while providing support for the community, and I wanted an opportunity to learn about the critical needs within our community at a higher level,” Chiara explained.

“Even though I’m from Berks County, I did not understand how much need there is in the Greater Reading area.”

Chiara, an Advisor and partner for Herbein Wealth Management, met with Franki Aitken, Senior Vice President for Finance and Operations at the Berks County Community Foundation, to explore options and to discuss what types of funds had been established to support women in neighboring communities.

Through a client, Chiara learned of the Good Shepherd Women’s Giving Circle. “After attending one of their meetings in 2011, I decided Berks County could benefit from a women’s giving circle dedicated to giving back to women and children,” she said.

In 2012, Chiara met with Franki and Heidi Williamson, Community Foundation Vice President for Programs and Initiatives, to set up general guidelines and a fund framework.

That year, a group of local women pooled their resources to create The Power of the Purse in 12 Women2Women Summer 2015

Berks County Fund at Berks County Community Foundation. “As the group considered some of the many issues faced by women and girls, one insight emerged repeatedly: women who have support and the skills they need to become gainfully employed are empowered to improve their quality of life,” Chiara shared.

The Power of the Purse provides funding to help break the cycle of poverty by eliminating or addressing barriers for Berks County girls and/or women who want to enter or re-enter the workforce or to seek the education they need to do so.

Making a Difference

During the past three years, The Power of the Purse has grown to 38 members and has given back over $78,000 to help women and children in our community. Local nonprofits can request funding through the Community Foundation, which provides administrative support to assist with the process.

mothers are able to qualify for other childcare subsidies. Berks Counseling Center received $5,200 to develop a work attitude program for women in recovery. The 38-week program was developed to cater to women’s issues and everyday barriers that could limit women from reaching their full potential in their careers, maternal expectations and individuality.

Berks Women in Crisis Educational Opportunity Fund received $8,981 in 2014 to assist domestic violence and sexual assault survivors obtain their GED or to connect to other educational opportunities. Also that year, Co-County Wellness Services received $8,981 to help educate young women in the City of Reading on the risks of teen pregnancy through the Curriculum Dissemination Project (CDP), and The YMCA of Reading and Berks County received $10,581 to support Y-Haven.

This year four nonprofits were awarded grants totaling $34,500! Mary’s Shelter received $5,000 to support the Education and Employment program, which assists young women in securing post-graduation employment, education, or training that will help them become successful parents and self-sufficient adults. Bridge of Hope received $5,000 to support their efforts to end and prevent homelessness for women and children with the help of trained mentoring groups within congregations. The YMCA of Reading and Berks County received $10,500 to support Y-Haven. Reading Recreation Commission received $13,000 to support their Girls Leadership Program, which empowers young women in urban environments to be leaders and visionaries and gives them the tools to be healthy, successful and contributing members of society.

How You Can Help

In 2013, Opportunity House received $5,000 to offset the cost for women to earn their GED, and The YMCA of Reading & Berks County was granted $5,000 for women in the Y-Haven program, which enables mothers in transitional housing to quickly accept jobs and educational opportunities by covering costs for childcare and transportation until

By making an annual donation, your dollars can help provide funding for women and children in Greater Reading. If you are under the age of 35, your annual commitment is $500, and women age 35 and over have a financial commitment of $1,000 annually.

Time commitment is minimal with four meetings held each year. A kick-off meeting is held in the fall featuring a speaker discussing current community needs. At the

February meeting, members meet as a group to review funding proposals and decide which site visits each would like to attend.

“Site visits are encouraged, so members can learn firsthand about nonprofits and can ask questions regarding their request for a proposal,” Chiara explained.

Site visits are held from February to April when the group meets again to determine grant recipients. Each member who contributes to the giving circle can vote on which nonprofits will receive funds. In May the group gathers for a celebration event, which is usually hosted at a member’s home. During the celebration, potential new members are encouraged to attend and to talk with existing members about their experience. The current year’s grant recipients are invited to share how the funds will help their initiatives.

For more information about The Power of the Purse or to get involved, please contact Franki Aitken at the Community Foundation at 610.685.2223.

The Power of the Purse is Mighty & Growing: Women create, control and influence an enormous amount of wealth around the globe. The amount is staggering: upwards of $20 trillion or 27% of the world’s total wealth. In the U.S. alone, women exercise decision making control over $11.2 trillion; that’s 39% of the nation’s estimated $28.6 trillion of investable assets.

Women are the purse-string holders throughout the developed world: women account for 85% of all consumer purchases in the U.S. from computers to pharmaceuticals, from bank accounts to new homes.

In the US, women own 8 million or 40% of businesses with an annual economic impact of nearly $3 trillion. If American women-owned businesses made up a country, it would have a higher GDP than France, Italy and Great Britain combined.

If just a small portion of these dollars is committed to create change in our community, imagine the possibilities!

Source: The Center for Talent Innovation study “Harnessing the Power of the Purse: Female Investors and Global Opportunities for Growth” by Sylvia Ann Hewlett and Andrea Turner Moffitt with Melinda Marshall.

berkswomen2women.com 13

Growth2Go /

Finance, Mentoring & Education

Young Professionals M A KE LE G I S L ATI V E I M PA CT

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ach year, roughly 5,000 graduates exit the five colleges and universities in the Greater Reading area. A few will stay in Berks County; others may consider moving back at some point in their lives. But many of these talented, energetic, and bright graduates leave the area altogether in search of employment opportunities and living environments that are difficult to find in Berks County. The unfortunate consequence of this exodus is that Berks County does not have a steady influx of young talent, nor does the next generation pull a lot of weight in the local political spectrum.

Step Forward: The Pennsylvania Young Professionals Initiative. Organized groups of working individuals, aged 21–45, from all around the region are one way the Commonwealth is responding to the problem of advancing professional growth and retention in small towns. Locally, we have the Greater Reading Young Professionals (GRYP).

14 Women2Women Summer 2015

Keri Morton, Architect, Kautter & Kelly Architects

GRYP’s overall mission is to attract, engage, and retain young professionals in the Greater Reading community. We do this through hosting programs and events geared toward networking, education, philanthropy, recreation, and socializing. While many GRYP members are interested in connecting with other professionals for business interests, another benefit of joining the organization includes the resources provided by its Legislative Impact Committee (LIC).

The LIC fulfills several functions. Although GRYP does not endorse specific candidates or parties, it does encourage its members to register to vote by providing information on the voter registration process. Also, the LIC introduces local elected officials and candidates for office to GRYP members during

Quarterly Elected Officials meetings and the Meet the Candidates Mixer in the fall. Finally, the LIC hosts special events focusing on issues pertinent to a “community cause” selected by GRYP’s membership.

In the past, the community cause involved home buying, workforce readiness, urban safety and security, and economic development.

These are issues that the GRYP membership cares about and wants to help influence in our community.

In order for young people to have an impact on issues, the LIC aims to ensure that young professionals (YPs) are adequately represented in legislative and political discourse. The LIC seeks to promote and strengthen the voices of the recent graduates and YPs who live and work in Greater Reading. By making these voices known, other new talent may hear and be encouraged to speak up and get involved in the community. There is an ongoing need to invite and encourage YPs to embrace political participation so that young people feel empowered to speak out about issues that matter to their wellbeing in this community.

By expressing these interests the next generation can affect the shaping of local laws and the use of public funds. Since young people are generally the top consumer group in the general population, the dedication of public funds toward more YP-friendly pursuits can directly impact the growth of a community. For instance, the development of an innovative professional industry could broaden the job market, offering opportunities for creativity and career advancement. The popularity of a new recreational activity for able-bodied people would likely encourage consumer spending. Or, the provision of tax incentives for YP property buyers, especially in downtown areas, could attract more young professionals to this area.

Whether you are a voter, a GRYP member, or an activist, here are some ways that you can become engaged in local government:

 Volunteer to serve on a board, authority, or commission

in your municipality. Openings are often posted on the municipality’s website. (At last look, there were nearly 50 open positions posted on the City of Reading’s website: http://www.readingpa.gov/content/boards-commissions.)

 Run for a government leadership position in your municipality.  Participate at special legislative events in your community, such as conferences, receptions, or fundraisers.

 Become part of a phone-call lobbying group for a local

candidate or a legislative issue that is important to you.

 Attend public meetings (city council, school

board, subcommittee meetings, etc.) to find out what issues are top concerns in your community.

Raise or support issues that matter to you.

 Vote on Election Day. To join the Greater Reading Young Professionals, please visit www.greaterreadingyp.com/join-gryp-today.

Most significantly, GRYP is working to ensure a strong pipeline of young professionals who are active in community programs and organizational entities so that the supply of up-and-coming community leaders continues. When young people become engaged in service to their community and practice to be better leaders, there is hope for a continuous supply of interested people to fill all of the openings on local boards and commissions. Going forward, there will be a broad pool from which to create governance positions, and the community can prosper under diversified leadership.

Focused social and political causes are paramount to the growth of any community. These causes can be affected by direct participation in government, but they can also be lobbied for by persons of any age through petitioning, engagement, and other forms of communication with local government representatives. GRYP’s LIC helps to facilitate these connections for local professionals and to provide political resources to all GRYP members. It is the LIC’s job to encourage more young people to participate in these events in order to promote equitable representation in legislative activity. berkswomen2women.com 15

Growth2Go

PERCEPTIONS ABOUT… The Female

Car Professional

Buyer

Danielle Antos, Program Coordinator – Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry

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lready established data shows the tremendous impact women have on the entire auto industry. According to the book Influence: How Women’s Soaring Economic Power Will Transform Our World for the Better, women influence a full 85 percent of all car purchases—worth more than $80 billion every year. In addition, right here in Berks County we see that more women are entering the auto industry as sales professionals at many area dealerships.

Women2Women wanted to find out why.

Women2Women took the opportunity to interview five female sales professionals from Savage Auto Group to discuss their career path in the auto industry and get their perceptions about the female car buyer. Are the myths and preconceived notions perpetuated on TV comedies true? The answers might surprise you.

Savage L&B: Chelsea Carl (left) & Rachel Strunk (right)

W2W: Why did you choose to pursue a career in the auto industry?

Years ago, Carol Chura was challenged by a family member who said that she couldn’t make it working outside the home as a car salesperson. But 27 years later, Carol, a sales professional at Savage Hyundai, is still with the same dealership and is very successful. “If you had told me that I would be selling cars for this long when I started, I would have said you were out of your mind,” said Carol.

“It doesn’t matter what your gender is when you walk in the door—money is the bottom line to a consumer”

Savage Hyundai: Kathy Link (left) and Carol Chura (right)

16 Women2Women Summer 2015

Kathy Link also works at Savage Hyundai in Shillington. When she was laid off from a job in the banking industry, Kathy worked as a greeter in the showroom. When the greeter program ended in 2010, Kathy was offered a sales position and has been with the dealership ever since. While she admits she never enjoyed selling banking products, she does love car sales. “It’s about meeting people and learning how to relate to them that I enjoy,” said Kathy.

Chelsea Carl, a sales professional at Savage L&B in Robesonia, stopped in the dealership one day for an oil change. “My dad always bought cars here and when I found out they were hiring, I applied and was offered the position.” That was seven months ago. Some folks are surprised when she tells them that she’s in the auto industry but she explains her passion and love of working with people and believes this is the perfect place for her.

W2W: In your observation, how are you perceived by potential customers (male and female) as a professional woman in the auto industry?

Rachel Strunk has worked for Savage L&B for a total of eight years, first at the check-in and service desks and now in a sales position for the past five years. “My dad worked at Savage for 35 years, so I pretty much grew up here,” said Rachel. Over the years, Rachel feels that women seem to be more comfortable with a female sales person. Single women usually bring along a male family member or friend to help them with their buying decisions. Men do not seem concerned by a female sales presence. “Sometimes men are surprised that I’m a salesperson, but once we get to chatting about their needs, they see that I know my stuff,” said Rachel.

Carol and Kathy do not alter their sales approach based on gender for one simple reason—price. “It doesn’t matter what your gender is when you walk in the door—money is the bottom line to a consumer,” says Carol. “Doesn’t everyone want to know they have money left in their pocket,” seconds Kathy.

W2W: Which features in your experience are the most important to male and female customers?

As in other industries, the internet has made car buyers much more knowledgeable today than just 10 years ago. Shoppers come armed with research about amenities and performance—they are even able to select colors on-line. Rachel says that in her experience, men are just as concerned about the cosmetics (they just don’t readily admit it); they still want to hear about what’s under the hood, but color, warranty, parts, service and functionality are also very important. All the ladies we spoke with agreed that women usually make the final purchase decision. Even when men are car shopping alone, at some point they always say, “I need to bring my wife in to get final approval.”

After meeting these self-confident professionals at Savage Auto Group, it was clear to Women2Women that while many things are changing (more women entering male-dominated fields, women contributing more to the household income, etc.) all the customer really wants in the end is great quality, a fair price and exceptional customer service— something the Savage Auto Group strives to provide every day.

Marguerite DeLucas agrees. She is a sales professional at Savage Kia and has witnessed the same. “Even when couples come in together, women seem to be more at ease because they feel comfortable dealing with a female.”

Carol and Kathy agree that once men see they have their customers’ best interests in mind, gender doesn’t seem to matter. However, they find female customers are more likely to follow up with a thank you note or phone call. They are also more up front saying, “Oh, I’m so glad you are a woman.

I feel more comfortable talking to you,” when they first sit down at the dealership.

W2W: What style of selling do you think works best?

Marguerite, sales associate at Savage Kia, said her style is no-pressure when dealing with her customers. “I strive to be friendly, knowledgeable and able to answer my customers’ questions. If I don’t know the answer, I find it out,” she said. Chelsea concurs. “I love going over all the details with my customers—from the beginning to the end. I think customers appreciate an honest approach,” she said. This type of service keeps customers coming back. “Serving your customers well and being honest with them cultivates trust between us,” said Carol. berkswomen2women.com 17

Growth2Go

to Reality Stephanie Rado Taormina Launches New Brand,

Have Some Fun Today

Photo credit: Tina Dolan

Founder, Principal & Designer, Have Some Fun Today

Q: You have been involved in the design world for over 25 years. What inspired you to start Have Some Fun Today when you did?

A: This business is really the culmination of the 25 years I’ve spent in the fashion, interiors and art worlds. As I evolved as a person, my interest in art and design and the way I have developed my professional life have evolved. And as time passes, I have become keenly aware of what is really important in life.

When my father passed away last year, I thought a lot about what made him such an inspiration and a successful businessman. The simple message he used every day echoed in my mind, “Have Some Fun Today!” I thought a lot about what this message communicated to his five children, to all of his colleagues and

18 Women2Women Summer 2015

to the friends he played golf and cards with every chance he had. I realized that the success he had in life was because of this message. He had “fun” each day by living his passion. His family, his business, and his beliefs were aligned. That inspiration is a message I know we could all benefit from, so I’m sharing it through my new business.

Q: What led you to believe that a product line was a viable business?

A: For the past 15 years, I have been working as an interior designer in Berks County, on the Main Line and in Philadelphia. I really enjoyed my business during the years that I have had it, but I recognized that it had limits for expansion—because of the number of hours in each day, geography and perceived value.

Also, my business grew by word-of-mouth referral, which was not a quick process. At the most, a new project would generate two or three referrals for new projects. This certainly built my business, but I was aware of the limitations.

Most people who are familiar with me know that I have been engaged with social media since its inception. I have utilized it as a tool to network without the limitations of geography, friendship association or background. The more I expanded my networks by meeting new people through Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linked In, the more I gained a sense of our ability to access a global community.

In the 1990s I was a private label linen designer for a home furnishings store in NYC called ABC Carpet and Home. My experience there led me to transition to become a vendor/ supplier for the store and I sold my Rado Ltd. product line to ABC, Gumps and other retailers. This gave me a taste for the manufacturing industry.

When my father passed away, many, many people shared their condolences with me, my mother, our aunts and uncles, cousins, my four siblings and our children through social media. With quick math by a marketing friend, we recognized that more than 15,000 people would have heard about his passing and seen his Have Some Fun Today message shared during that time period.

I was inspired. With the global reach of social media and my background in fashion, along with a personal interest in sharing inspiration, the Have Some Fun Today Couture lifestyle brand was born.

Q: How did you get started?

A: I should start by mentioning that I have a BFA in Fashion from Parsons School of Design in New York City.

I began with a core group of product visions. I sketched them out and headed to New York’s garment district to find fabrics at Mood Fabrics. I sourced manufacturers and designers through the Big Button Kiosk in the garment district. After scouring through pages and pages of options, I identified a handful of great vendors.

For the Luxe Tote and Wristlet, I selected the fabricator that executes some of Rebecca Minkoff’s handbags. They helped me from concept and prototype to final sample production and first order fulfillment.

Continued on page 20 berkswomen2women.com 19

Growth2Go

For the tops, I knew I loved the designs of T-shirts made by James Perse and Spiritual Gangster, so I created my own design with the cut and drape I desired. I found a pattern maker who executes some of the designs for Oscar de la Renta. They helped with patterns, grading, samples and the first run of the products.

Each first run was limited in quantity to ensure the designs functioned well when worn, washed and used. Design adjustments were made for the reorder and now I’m producing these initial designs, along with more than 20 other products, through various vendors.

It’s been an intense year—HSFT just celebrated our 1-year anniversary—but I’m in heaven when I see people wearing and using products from the line. And I know my father would be, too!

I have been a consumer of products with inspirational messages since they began to appear years ago. In fact, many people have been drawn to similar products for years without realizing—think about your grandmother’s needlepoint message pillows or framed poetry in your child’s nursery. I could see the industry growing through social media and in the collections of popular retailers.

The HSFT line seems to resonate with people who have an interest in combining hip style with a feel-good message. What we’ve found is that our customers are positive, energized, vacation-loving, adventure-seeking and fashion-conscious. We find the brand appeals to buyers from boutiques in large metropolitan areas, vacation or coastal communities and in hotel shops.

Q: How did you decide how to distribute your products to expand sales beyond the Berks County market?

A: We’ve been well received in Greater Reading so far, with consistent growth in sales by the month! In fact, we’ve had to reorder several of our items multiple times already and we’ve expanded our line, based on customer feedback.

Q: Our society seems so focused on guiding young people to find career paths that will bring them financial success. What would you tell a young person today that is interested in the fashion industry?

A: Well, that’s an interesting question for someone who just started a business based on inspiring others to have some FUN. I believe everyone should follow their fun, or their passion. When we are experiencing joy in life, great success will follow. The way in which you define success is up to you!

Just like my father, I believe that our worlds should be integrated: work, play, spirituality, friendships, life. Following our passion in every endeavor guarantees that we’ll all Have Some Fun Today!

For more style options, see our How to Wear It: www.havesomefuntoday.com/pages/how-to-wear-it

20 Women2Women Summer 2015

Photos By: Dave Zerbe Studio of Photography

berkswomen2women.com 21

BookClub Fall of Giants

Summer Reads...

Facebook feedback….input from our Women2Women

Ken Follett

&

The Goldfinch

The Rumor

Donna Tartt

Elin Hilderbrand

Those were for fun—just finished It’s Your Ship—great leadership book.

–Patricia Frances Farrell Shermot

The perfect summer book for the lazy relaxing week at the beach.

– Michele Blood

The Magician’s Lie Greer Macallister

Orphan Train Christina Baker Kline – Wendy Kerschner

22 Women2Women Summer 2015

It’s set in the late 1800s. A love story and mystery very well written. Not a romance novel.

– Amy Bullitt Ciervo

2015

2016

HAPPENINGS… Women2Women, managed by the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, is Greater Reading’s premiere resource for women who want to learn, share ideas, build connections and mentor each other. Our goal is to create more women leaders in Berks. Membership is free and open to all women.

To Join Women2Women, e-mail: W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org Plus, stay connected at:

BerksWomen2Women.com • Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women • LinkedIn: Berks Women2Women Group

LAUNCH EVENT

5TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF WOMEN2WOMEN

An Evening with Jennifer Weiner, a #1 New York Times bestselling author and social media maven Thursday, October 1, 2015, 5:00–8:00 p.m. • Crowne Plaza Reading • $50

Jennifer Weiner is the author of the novels Good in Bed (2001); In Her Shoes (2002), which was turned into a major motion picture starring Cameron Diaz, Toni Collette and Shirley MacLaine; Little Earthquakes (2004); Goodnight Nobody (2005); the short story collection The Guy Not Taken (2006); Certain Girls (2008); Best Friends Forever (2009); Fly Away Home (2010); Then Came You (2011); The Next Best Thing (2012); All Fall Down (2014) and her forthcoming novel Who Do You Love (August 2015).

A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Jennifer Weiner’s books have spent over five years on the New York Times bestseller list with over 11 million copies in print in 36 countries.

Weiner has appeared on numerous national television programs, including The Today Show, CBS This Morning, and CBS Sunday Morning, and has been published in dozens of newspapers and magazines, including The New York Times, Seventeen, Redbook, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, and Good Housekeeping.

Time Magazine named her as the author of one of its 140 Best Twitter feeds, and Forbes put her on its list of “25 Working Moms to Follow on Twitter.” berkswomen2women.com 23

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.

Janine Quigley, CJM

Warden — Berks County Prison December 9, 2015 • 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Inn at Reading • $20

Janine Quigley is the Warden of the Berks County Jail System and has spent 28 years of her corrections career in this system. Janine became the first deputy warden in 1997, overseeing administrative and support services.

In 2006, she was transferred to the custody/security division and shortly thereafter was promoted to Chief Deputy Warden. In February 2014, she was named acting Warden. In May 2014, Janine was appointed to the position of Warden. She has served as a Defense Tactics/Use of Force Instructor and continues to serve as a Conduct and Ethics Instructor.

Senator Judy Schwank

Andrea Funk

CEO, Cambridge-Lee Industries June 7, 2016 • 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

DoubleTree Hotel Reading • $20 Ms. Funk has been the Chief Executive Officer of Cambridge-Lee Industries LLC (CLI) since September 2013.

She has been a member of the executive management team and Board of Directors since 2010, when she joined the company as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer with responsibility for finance, treasury, accounting, human resources, technology, and purchasing. From 2007 to 2010, Ms. Funk served as Director Operations Planning and Reporting for Carpenter Technology, Inc. Prior to that, she served as Senior Director of Manufacturing Finance, Director of Global Business Development, and Director of Financial Planning and Analysis with Arrow International from 2000 to 2007. Ms. Funk sits on a number of non-profit boards and is a very active volunteer in our community. She frequently speaks at local universities and community organizations, and is an advocate of young women pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

PA Senate District 11 February 16, 2016, 8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.

Crowne Plaza Reading • $20 Senator Judy Schwank worked as a Berks County horticultural agent for Penn State Cooperative Extension and established the Master Gardener Program. She became director of the Berks County Cooperative Extension Program in 1991 and was elected as the first female Berks County Commissioner in 2000. Senator Schwank’s interest in creating a sustainable Pennsylvania has drawn her to public service roles in the government and nonprofit realms. She has served as the Democratic chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee since her election to the Senate in April 2011. During the current (2015-16) legislative session, she also is a member of the Senate Appropriations, Aging and Youth, Public Health and Welfare and State Government Committees. Senator Schwank has also been appointed by Senate leadership to the board of governors of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and the Pennsylvania Interbranch Commission for Gender, Racial, and Ethnic Fairness.

SAVE THE DATE! WOMEN2WOMEN SPRING RENEWAL EXPO

April 26, 2016 • Crowne Plaza Reading $50 (includes ATHENA Award Breakfast & Lunch) $25 (ATHENA Award Breakfast only) KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Linda Cliatt-Waymann

Principal, Strawberry Mansion High School Linda Cliatt-Wayman is a passionate educator with an unwavering belief in the potential of all children. Her leadership as a high school principal in North Philadelphia has been featured by TED, ABC World News Tonight, and Nightline. She has dedicated her career and her life to ending that injustice and to helping students succeed in school and beyond.

Test scores at Strawberry Mansion High School have improved every year since Wayman took over, and the school was removed from the federal Persistently Dangerous Schools list for the first time in five years. Diane Sawyer and her team spent an entire school year documenting Wayman’s efforts, which were featured on both ABC World News Tonight and Nightline. She was named a KYW Gamechanger and won the 2014 Philadelphia Magazine Trailblazer Award and 2014 Philadelphia Maneto Award.

LEAN IN CIRCLES: WANT TO UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL? JOIN A LEAN IN CIRCLE! A Lean In Circle is comprised of 12 to 14 women coming together to learn, grow and support each other in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust. Each Circle is facilitated by a skilled facilitator. Circles meet monthly, alternating between Education and Exploration meetings. Education meetings focus on a particular topic and offer practical skills that can be applied in daily life.

Companies are embracing Lean In Circles for their employees as they see a need to offer an innovative model for leadership development for promising employees.

Today’s young professionals are learning and developing in different kinds of environments than their predecessors. Finding peer engagement and mentoring, at times, more relevant than traditional formalized classroom training and an effective alternative method of cultivating leaders. As you consider young women within your organization that you and your team have identified as the next generation of leaders, we invite you to consider investing in their future by encouraging them to take advantage of this opportunity. It is an investment in their future and the future of your organization. Applications are available by visiting www.berkswomen2women.com or contacting Danielle Antos, Program Coordinator, at dantos@greaterreadingchamber.org. Circles will begin in October. Cost to join is $500 and consists of ten 2-hour monthly sessions.

24 Women2Women Summer 2015

PATH2PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Path2Personal Development (P2D) has a personal development focus and is comprised of a series of programs throughout the year that are interactive and provide a place for women to connect, collaborate and support each other in a relaxed environment.

P2D LAUNCH EVENT

ENHANCING EFFECTIVENESS WITH DIVERSE COMMUNITIES Alexis Jardine

October 14, 2015, 5:00–8:00 p.m.

Crowne Plaza Reading • $25

Coordinator of the Spanish Department and Chair of The Multicultural Awareness Initiative — Reading Area Community College November 11, 2015 • 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence • Free

Allison Shannon

Owner — Allison’s Clothing

Liz McCauley

Executive Director – Animal Rescue League

There is little question that our personal and professional lives are impacted each day by the diversity of the communities within which we live and work. Understanding more about the values, traditions, culture and history of our neighbors, co-workers and customers will certainly make each of us more effective in these interactions.

Join Alexis Jardine as she shares her personal knowledge, experiences and her years of training on understanding cultural differences.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP WITH A FOCUS ON FASHION

March 1, 2016 • 4:30–6:30 p.m.

On the Road @ Alvernia University

Lisa Greenawalt

Director of Curriculum & Instruction — Lehigh Career & Technical Institute

Kim Leppold

Senior Analyst — Metal Bulletin Research

•

Free

W2W is taking Path2Personal Development to Alvernia University.

We will Connect, Collaborate and Support while providing college students an opportunity to join us. This panel discussion will explore entrepreneurship with a focus on fashion. Our successful women panelists will talk about their careers, their journeys and their fashion.

The relaxed atmosphere of our program will present a wonderful opportunity for networking and creating connections.

Our panel will share their journeys and obstacles they faced and overcame, and the decision points they encountered. They will also reveal the role that sponsors and mentors played along the way. Their stories will inspire you and ignite interesting discussion around the paths they have taken.

CRAFTING POWERFUL BUSINESS STORIES Michelle Kissinger

Allison Shannon

Owner — Allison’s Clothing

Susan Golembeski Owner — Jan Rae

Director of Business Development — Kissinger Associates Inc. January 13, 2016 • 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence • Free Storytelling plays a powerful but often overlooked role in organizations. The transformative power of stories is rooted in their ability to capture our imagination, arouse our passion, and inspire commitment. Facts and data come alive with emotional resonance when wrapped in a well-crafted story. Learn what distinguishes information from story, how to engage your listeners’ emotions and senses, and to how to be more intentional about the stories you tell in the workplace.

Angela Kornaś

Head Designer – Dolfin Swimwear

Robin Horman

President/Owner at LiliBea’s

berkswomen2women.com 25

PATH2PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT CONTINUED… DO’S AND DON’TS OF EFFECTIVE NETWORKING, PART II Delphia Howze

Manager of Diversity & Inclusion and Corporate HR — Penske Truck Leasing May 11, 2016 • 4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.

Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence • Free Networking is not just about who you know…Networking is creating a relationship or solidifying an already existing relationship in order to develop a resource that will assist in making the right connections. We will re-visit this topic and learn more skills to enhance your success.

You can become a super networker!

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.

BECOME A CONNECTOR, NOT A COLLECTOR, PART II Nancy Dunleavy

Founder and CEO — Dunleavy & Associates November 17, 2015 • 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

The Highlands at Wyomissing • $20­ BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! Nancy was so dynamic and informative last year so we invited her back again. Magic happens when you are able to go beyond networking and actually connect with others. Learn how to stop the cycle of merely collecting business cards and learn how the power of connecting can change your career and the world around you. Nancy is one of “Philadelphia’s Top 101 Connectors,” and the owner of a top 100 woman-owned business. Her career as an entrepreneur was preceded by more than twenty years in the healthcare business, as a senior financial manager and hospital administrator. Nancy will share more tools to get you connected!

HE SAID/SHE SAID — GENDER DIFFERENCES IN THE WORKPLACE Michele Richards, Senior Vice President/

Commercial Banking Manager — Fulton Bank

Jeffrey Rush, Senior Executive Vice President,

Regional President, Pennsylvania — Fulton Bank January 19, 2016 • 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

The Highlands at Wyomissing • $20 There is no denying that gender stereotypes still exist.

While these stereotypes are often exaggerated, research shows gender characteristics do exist and influence the workplace. These differences don’t have to be negative; they can be a positive force for businesses. Hear from a team that is successfully navigating and harnessing the power of these differences.

26 Women2Women Summer 2015

FINDING YOUR VOICE & BUILDING TRUST IN THE WORKPLACE Lisa Lavender

Chief Operating Officer — Berks Fire Water Restorations, Inc. May 15, 2016 • 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

The Highlands at Wyomissing • $20

It is Okay to Cry. Lisa Lavender will reflect on the critical points in her career that brought her to tears. Each critical tear brought a lesson, growth, action and confidence. Self- confidence is a critical ingredient to receiving the trust and confidence of others in the work place. Her prescription for embracing the qualities inherent to women can give you a happy successful career.

BUSINESS ETIQUETTE AND FIRST IMPRESSIONS Judie Thompson

Owner – Myndsight Consulting LLC May 17, 2016 • 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

The Highlands at Wyomissing • $20

Did you know that within the first seven seconds of meeting someone, we pass judgements about professional competence? Since up to 90% of communication can be non-verbal, the most powerful forms of communications are image and body language. Join us to learn how you can make a positively influential impression, strengthen your personal brand and establish credibility with everyone you meet.

Growth 2Go

Smart Approach to The Salary Talk…

Laurel Cline, Senior Associate – Mosteller & Associates

Women don’t ask.

T

So, how can you set yourself up to be successful in these types of conversations?

hat is the title of an enlightening book by Linda Babcock and Sara Laschaver, and is also part of the reason that women are sometimes paid less than their male counterparts. According to Babcock and Laschaver, men are four times more likely to ask for higher pay than women. This is certainly not the only reason for the pay gap, but it is something that we can be aware of and do something about!

As a Human Resource professional, I would contend that not only do we need to ask, but we need to do it in a way that gives us the best opportunity for success.

First and foremost, pay is (or should be) about the job you are doing—both in terms of the position you hold and how well you are performing. There are a number of factors that impact that equation, including how the “market” values the job (i.e. what is the “going rate” for this position), how your organization values the position, your specific skills, education and work experience, and how well you are performing. You can’t personally impact the first factor, but you can influence the others.

Over the years I have spoken with many people, both men and woman, about salary concerns. In my experience, woman often struggle with the notion that something is “not fair”—they expect that someone will notice an inequity (real or not) and remedy it. It is easy to get stuck in that mindset and continue complaining without asking for what you need in a way that is useful.

A number of years ago a woman who reported to me asked for “more money.” She had recently returned from a leave of absence and had only been back at work for a couple of months when she stopped in my office and

1. Know Your Worth: Both from an internal and external perspective, you need to be confident in your abilities and what you do for the company. It is important to know how the external market values your position, so try to gather some data about average pay for your position at other similar companies, preferably in your geographic area. If you don’t have other resources, like industry data, Salary. com is a place to start, but that data is typically inflated by 10–20 percent (or more).

2. Make The Business Case:

said she needed to talk. She was visibly upset, almost angry, and proceeded to tell me that her husband had “done the math,” and that with the cost of gas (she lived about an hour from work), and the cost of child care, he said she needed to make more money. This woman was highly qualified, very bright, and did good work, but none of that was evident in this approach for a salary increase. For starters, she didn’t “own” the issue; instead she pinned the request on her husband. She presented the situation completely from a personal point of view and did not focus on why she was valuable to the company (which she was). She also was not specific in terms of what she wanted. Needless to say, she was not successful in that conversation, though it did allow me to have a very direct conversation with her about how she might better approach the subject in the future.

Know why and how you and your position add value to your organization. Show how your role has positively impacted the organization’s profit or performance in some way—either because you have gained additional skills and knowledge that help your boss and/or the company, or because your performance has improved or changed something for the better. Provide numerical data whenever possible.

3. Know What You Want & Ask For It: Prepare yourself by practicing what you want to say before any meeting. If you have a dollar amount in mind, be able to substantiate it. For instance, you might say “Based on my research, people in similar roles at our competitors make ‘x’.

You have indicated that I am a strong performer in my role, and I believe an increase of ‘x’ is warranted.” If you want time off, flexible hours, additional money for training or education, ask for those instead of, or in addition to, more money, as long as you can make your case.

Be professional in your approach to this topic, and the worst that can happen is that someone says “no.” The upside is well worth it! berkswomen2women.com 27

Work2Life /

Balancing Life, Work & Family

Smoothies, Juices, & Cleanses... Oh My! Elizabeth Hawk, MS, RDN, St. Joseph Regional Health Network

T My Go-To Smoothie Recipe SERVINGS: 2

 1 cup Milk (skim, soy, or almond)  ¾ cup plain non-fat Greek Yogurt

 2 ice cubes of frozen orange juice  1 tsp vanilla extract

 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks

 1 tbsp ground flaxseed (optional)  2 cups of spinach or kale, raw

 2–3 ice cubes to thicken (optional) Blend first 6 ingredients together until smooth.

Add remaining ingredients and blend until desired texture.

NUTRITION FACTS (1 serving): Calories 133; Fat 2.2g; Potassium 551.5g; Carbohydrates 17g; Fiber 2.6g; Protein 12.4g

28 Women2Women Summer 2015

he diet industry’s main objective has always been to give the consumer a competitive edge on weight loss and health; convincing the consumer that there is an easier and faster way to achieve optimum weight loss and health if you have the money to pay for it. In 2010, CNBC reported that the diet industry is a nearly $60 billion-ayear global industry and with the Center for Disease Control reporting that over half of our population is overweight or obese the industry will continue to have its faithful followers. However, like most consumer supported industries, it needs to maintain its desirability by introducing or reinventing ways for the consumers to achieve their desired health outcomes, and one of the most recent reinventions is juicing/cleansing.

There is a great deal of research regarding the health benefits of eating more fruits and vegetables. The exact amount of fruits and vegetables you need to eat depends on age, sex, and level of physical activity. The USDA Choose My Plate recommends 1½–2 cups daily of fruit and 2½–3 cups daily of vegetables.

With very little research regarding the health benefits of just the juice from fruits and vegetables, registered dietitians and nutrition experts alike encourage you to fill half your plate with whole fruits and vegetables and to limit juice to 1 cup serving daily.

There certainly are benefits to incorporating fruit and vegetable juice as part of a well-balanced diet, just not as “sexy” as what the diet industry portrays. Fruits and vegetables are

packed with nutrients and since the daily recommended intake is rarely met, utilizing the juicing method to increase your consumption is a bonus to a great tasting beverage. It is also a great solution to help intake adequate amounts of produce even when someone has poor dentition and difficulty chewing.

Contrary to what the diet industry may advertise, there is no scientific evidence that the juice is healthier than the whole fruit and vegetable itself. In fact, altering the produce also changes its nutrient content. When the pulp is extracted during the juicing process, the fiber is eliminated. The juice also becomes perishable and the nutrients’ shelf-life becomes extremely shortened. Because the juice is perishable, homemade juices should be consumed immediately or frozen to preserve the integrity of the nutrients and commercial packaged drinks usually undergo a type of preservative method to combat spoilage.

Juicing can be used in a variety of ways and how it is being used may determine its impact

on health. Juice cleanses continue to gain popularity even though there is no scientific evidence that supports its ability to remove toxins from the body. Our bodies have their own well-equipped detoxifying system and dietitians agree that a well-balanced, whole food, nutrient dense diet will optimize the body’s performance of removing toxins. These prepackaged products will also come with a hefty price. While maintaining their fiber content and stability, whole fruits and vegetable offer the most nutrition for your buck.

Juice fasting claims to promote quick and easy weight loss by replacing whole food with liquid calories. Consuming less calories than our body needs will create a caloric deficit resulting in weight loss, but keep in mind a juice-fast is also deficient in fiber, healthy fats, and protein which are all needed to support healthy sustainable weight loss.

Using juice as a way to increase a person’s fruit and vegetable consumption remains the most reputable form of juicing among

dietitians. Juicing can also help increase your variety of vegetables consumed. Mixing fruits with vegetables like beets and kale creates a sweet subtle taste ideal for picky non-veggie eaters. Maximize the health benefits of juice by trying homemade recipes. Experimenting with homemade juice smoothies will help preserve the fiber of the produce by blending the whole fruit and vegetable together rather than just extracting the juice. Fat from an avocado or nut butters as well as protein in the form of yogurt or whey powder can also be added to this method creating an occasional on-the-go balanced meal. Lastly, keep in mind portion control. Drinking no more than 1 cup of juice per day will help limit the consumption of excess sugar.

A health-promoting diet will never eliminate foods nor will it promise rapid unrealistic results. Like all foods, juices included, moderation is the basis for a sustainable healthy diet and sustainability is fundamental for weight management. berkswomen2women.com 29

Work2Life

You Can’t Fake Fitness!

Lynn Kreider, Owner, LJ’s Fitness, CPT, PNS Conrad Weiser, Strength & Conditioning Coach

I

t was 50 degrees and raining at daybreak that Saturday morning in October 2011, my least favorite weather to compete outside.

I was about to embark on an adventure unlike any I had ever attempted and fear had a firm grip on my usually confident, competitive spirit. In this photograph, I was 6 miles into the off road marathon called the MEGATRANSECT in Lockhaven, PA. The first refueling station was at mile 8 and while I squeezed the rainwater out of my socks I asked my husband if he wanted to quit (we were ⅓ of the way and I was feeling overwhelmed at what may lie ahead).

Before this event, I made a career out of fitness—high school tennis and track and field, competitive body building on a national level, world records in powerlifting, a few 5K runs, and owner/ operater of a fitness center. How difficult could running, jumping and climbing for 26 miles really be? Well, a torn quadriceps muscle and 10 hours, 15 minutes and some odd seconds later, it was clear I had failed to prepare.

So the question remains, how do you prepare for a personal fitness challenge? The first thing necessary is to prioritize your training. This doesn’t mean quitting your job and abandoning your family responsibilities, but it does entail a regular routine at least four days a week. Find your “me” time and that’s when you train. Take that block of time in your life and mark it on a calendar for everyone to see—especially you! As caregivers, women are famous for being all things to all people and putting their needs on the back burner. It doesn’t work with your training. An old fashioned calendar will work to write in BOLD the days and the times you will be working out. Highlight, star or circle your competition date. Finally, hang your training calendar in a prominent location. Yes, it seems like an elementary school child’s project and in a way it is. Fitness training is as much for your head as it is for your physique. You will be amazed at the anticipation you feel as you flip through the calendar marking training days and days for rest.

For example—Monday: weights, short run; Tuesday: speed work; Wednesday: rest; Thursday: agility work, short run; Friday: endurance, Weekend: family time or rest. Checking off your completed workouts will amp up your enthusiasm.

Even though the training schedule listed above is a sample, it points out a very important part of the preparation process—diversity in your training. A well-rounded training regiment is key to improving your fitness You can’t fake fitness! In general, the fitness industry has exploded condition. As a personal in the last three decades. Today, there are multitudes of competitive trainer and performance opportunities that invite the novice to the elite athlete to participate nutrition specialist, I confor fundraising or just fun—Tough Mudders range from 10 to 12 struct programs for all my miles in distance and often involve participants jump into a body clients that include this of freezing water as an obstacle; Spartan races add navigational skill element of training to keep requirements to the challenging obstacle course format; a Columbia them motivated and working Muddy Buddy race is relay style for 6 to 7 miles on bikes and runtoward their goal with each ning; or maybe it’s a running event 5K or longer. In any event (pun training session. The human intended), PREPARATION is vital to succeed in your fitness quest. body is comprised of muscles, 30 Women2Women Summer 2015

bones and connective tissue, each having a specific job for movement. To prevent injury and enhance performance each of these areas need to be addressed when training for an event. If you want to make a special meal for dinner, you follow a recipe.

There are as many excellent training programs as there are websites to find them. Do your homework when searching the web for training advice. If you find a 5-star program recommendation, check if there are any 1-star reviews. You may gain insight from those not-so-glowing reviews to find the program that’s right for you. Getting back to our recipe for your special meal, you probably wouldn’t throw all the ingredients together in a pot and turn up the heat on the stove and expect a fabulous dish. There are steps that must be followed; putting the ingredients together, then sautéing, combine with other parts of the recipe, bake at ‘x’ temperature and voila! The same goes for training programs—there are steps or progression involved. Most of my clients set a goal with at least a 3-month preparation period, so we have time to plan their training diversity. You may need to invest in some equipment, dumbbells or free weights, a jump rope, resistance bands that will enhance your training diversity options in addition to body weight exercises.

Once you’ve chosen a program to follow and decided to invest in equipment for your home or a gym membership it is paramount to perform the exercise correctly.

Investing in the guidance of a qualified personal trainer makes sense if you want to avoid wasting your time with trial and error programming. The old saying “You get what you pay for” applies here. Personal trainers are like any other profession; there are experienced and less experienced people out there—so don’t be shy about asking them for references.

Planning, time and effort along with blood (falling may be a part of your event!), sweat and tears (because training is hard work) is only part of the preparation formula. A solid nutrition plan cannot be ignored when training for results. Keeping a journal of your food and beverage (I should just say WATER) intake, plus thoughts on how you’re feeling daily, will shed a spotlight on whether your nutrition is adequate or needs a boost. The formula for a successful training experience is complex to say the least. Set a goal and prepare yourself by prioritizing your training, diversify your programming and seek out a professional to guide you.

You will play the way you practice! berkswomen2women.com 31

Health2 Wellness

Mental, Spiritual, Physical Health & Wellness

Women

as Caregivers Kristin Miller, BSN, RN Stroke Support Group Coordinator, St. Joseph Regional Health Network

A

s if our lives are not complicated enough by the daily grind, finances, work, stress, traffic and our own personal life issues, imagine adding ‘caregiver’ to this list. Many women and men find themselves as caregiver for a loved one, child, spouse or parent in their own home. However, according to new research, studies have found most caregivers were women married to the person they were caring for (Stewart, Streiner, Coyte, and Cheung, 2014). This additional responsibility can significantly impact the health and well-being of a woman.

As a female caregiver, women hold a higher risk for developing a health concern than our male counterparts in today’s society. The study also revealed that women reported a higher incidence of depression and anxiety and lower levels of overall satisfaction with life. Several studies indicate that women were simply wired differently than men and the increased health risks were a result of the emotional attachment women hold to the role as caregiver (Bitler, 2015).

Studies suggest that stroke caregivers are happier with life in general when they make According to another recent study that time to continue hobbies and interests that was presented at the International Stroke they enjoyed pre-stroke; and were less happy Conference (ISC), gender plays a significant when caring for a stroke survivor with memory role in a caregiver’s health. Women as caregiv- loss, depression and behavioral issues (Stewart, ers are at a greater risk for developing some Streiner, Coyte, and Cheung, 2014). pretty serious health issues, such as heart Many women are thrust into the role of disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure (Bitler, 2015). caregiver quite unexpectedly and suddenly; 32 Women2Women Summer 2015

for others it begins gradually and evolves into a secondary full time job. Nonetheless, recognizing your role as caregiver is a critical step in taking care of yourself so you can better take care of others. To avoid caregiver burnout, it is critical to recognize and be aware of your own attitude toward health and the act of care giving.

Remember, healthy-minded caregivers share the work with others, know their resources, avoid isolation, and know when to ask for help. “A caregiver who has a positive attitude toward care giving will receive greater benefits and satisfaction than a caregiver who feels trapped in the caregiving role or who feels bound by duty” (Hohler, 2012). If the caregiver takes on the positive attitude that this new responsibility is something they can handle then they will grow and learn from the caregiver experience (Stewart, Streiner, Coyte, and Cheung, 2014).

The study presented at the ISC also revealed that providing care for a spouse places you at an even higher risk for the development of serious health conditions because of the fact that you live with your spouse and are less likely to get a break from the caregiver role (Bitler, 2015).

Although women as caregivers are at a greater risk for developing serious health conditions there are things women can do to

decrease stress, lessen the risks for development of serious health conditions and keep a positive outlook on the ‘here and now’ and the future of their loved ones. Experienced caregivers recommend that a caregiver live each day as it comes, remembering that a healthy attitude will decrease your stress level and make life a little more pleasurable (Hohler, 2012).

The National Alliance for Caregiving recommends the following steps to alleviate stress and maintain a positive attitude and healthy life balance: • Ask for help from family & friends • Join a support group • Take special time for yourself to do the things you enjoy doing • If married, try to focus on the positive aspects of caregiving

• Schedule regular physical check-ups for yourself • Exercise & Meditate For more information about the Stroke Support Group at St. Joseph Regional Health Network please visit: www.thefutureofhealthcare.org/stroke-center.

REFERENCES Bitler, T. (2015). Women caregivers are more at risk. Strokesmart. Retrieved from http://www.strokesmart.org/caregiver-stress Hohler, S. (2012). Caregiver’s guide, care for yourself while you care for your loved ones.

Jefferson: McFarland & Company, Inc. Stewart, D.; Streiner, D.; Coyte, P.; & Cheung, A.; (2014).

Older, active, confident stroke caregivers are happiest.

Retrieved from: http://newsroom.heart.org/news/ older-active-confident-stroke-caregivers-are-happiest

berkswomen2women.com 33

1.

2.

Heart Disease Cancer

3 . Stroke 4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

COPD (Emphysema & chronic bronchitis) Alzheimer’s Disease Diabetes Kidney Disease Blood Poisoning-Septicemia Anxiety Disorders/Depression

10. Osteoporosis

List compiled from Everyday Health, Fox News, Office on Women’s Health, Del Mar Times and Hopkins Medicine.

34 Women2Women Summer 2015

Health 2Wellness

berkswomen2women.com 35

Health 2Wellness

Hormones.

Let’s Talk About Them.

E

very human body produces a cocktail of hormones that impact the way our bodies function.

LW: In women, we primarily see the following symptoms: • Alteration of periods • Mood changes • Change in libido • Fatigue • Malaise • Weight change • General sense of not feeling “right”

Yet, for some reason they are a topic that not many people are comfortable discussing. Hormones—why all the mystery?

We are all aware that women experience hormonal shifts throughout our lives—during teen years, with pregnancy, during peri-menopause and at menopause. So, what indicators should we look for? What actions can we take to help smooth these transitions? When do we ask for help? And what resources are available for us? Women2Women turned to three health care providers from Berks County to offer their suggestions.

Symptoms are not necessarily different at different stages of life.

HA: Imbalances in our hormone levels change our bodies, our

moods, our brain chemistry, our self-confidence. Such imbalances change the way we normally respond to stress, alter our libido, our energy levels, our metabolism, our ability to digest and assimilate our food—in short they are responsible for women’s major changes. From child bearing women with PMS symptoms such as mood swings, cramping, and tender breasts to women going into menopause (late 30s upwards) with reduced libido, night sweats, thinning labia, sleeplessness, increasing belly fat, being wired but tired, to name a few, we are truly in need of a holistic medical environment.

The Q&A that follows showcases the responses of the following health care providers:

 OB/GYN—Dr. Susan Probst, MD (SP)  Internist—Dr. Lloyd Wolf, DO (LW)  Naturopath—Henriette Alban, ND (HA)

Q: What are common indicators of hormone changes?

Are they different at different stages of life?

SP: Women can experience a variety of symptoms.

A few of the more notable ones include: • Heat flashes/Night sweats • Insomnia/Sleep disturbances • Fatigue • Emotional lability (unpredictability) • Anxiety (which can be the most distressing/debilitating and undermining) • Vaginal dryness These symptoms may present themselves throughout the reproductive years through menopause, which can last up to 10 years after the cessation of the menstrual cycle.

36 Women2Women Summer 2015

Q: What symptoms may appear to alert us to have our hormones tested?

SP: Same answer as previous question.

LW: S ame answer as previous question.

HA: For younger women: Cramping, PMS, heavy extended menstrual

flow, tender breasts, thinning labia, lowered libido, sudden hair growth on face and chest.

For women late 30s and upwards: Night sweats, mood swings, sleeplessness, wired but tired, excessive reaction to ‘usual stress’, increased belly fat, weight increase, increased anxiety, fears, disturbance in self-esteem, loss of confidence.

Q: How can hormones be tested?

What type of test do you recommend?

SP: Women should be treated empirically. Blood and Saliva tests

are both effective. The classic method is the LH and FSH tests.

However, these do not read “abnormal” until a woman has missed her period for 12 consecutive months, so they are not a fair assessment of transitioning hormone issues.

The key is to listen to the symptoms first, because it is the patient’s assessment that matters most. Testing for Estrodial and Progesterone levels (the ratio should be 2:1, estrogen:progesterone). An imbalance will cause symptoms to begin.

Test for LH FSH Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone. Also, always test for thyroid levels, because abnormalities are common in menopause.

LW: Test thyroid, HPA Access (Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal axis), progesterone, estrogen, testosterone.

HA: Saliva, Urine and Blood Spot. Test for thyroid, cortisol, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and DHEAS to get a base line from where to balance your body.

Q: Can hormone tests present different results than the

symptoms our bodies are presenting? For example, might our tests read “normal” and our bodies be changing?

SP: Yes, this is why women should be treated based on the

Q: Can hormone changes impact overall health? For example, cause high blood pressure, headaches, depression, etc.?

SP: Estrogen has many benefits for overall health.

For example: • It’s cardio-protective.

• It has a well-known positive effect on skin, hair and nail health and moisture.

• It must be present for calcium to absorb into the system, so it helps to guard against bone loss.

• It binds with bile salts and in doing so, it decreases the risk of colon cancer.

symptoms they describe and identify.

Women can present symptoms for many years—from perimenopause through post-menopause. Also, symptoms may present as menses begins, during pregnancy, and/or post-partum.

LW: Yes. This is why communication with your physician is vital.

Patients generally know their bodies—even a self-diagnosis of “different” can begin a conversation with your provider.

HA: Yes. For example, very often women with hypo-thyroid

symptoms will test normal in a standard blood test. When we look deeper with blood spot testing (finger prick blood test) we get a more complete picture. Standardized medical testing and diagnosing can overlook what women notice and rapport about their symptoms. There is no one who knows your body better than you. Saliva testing for progesterone, estrogen and testosterone, DHEAS is more accurate in showing the actual availability of these hormones in the body.

As estrogen production reduces, these risks increase.

LW: Yes. To explain, any adjustment in the function of the glands

in our system can contribute to a change in any organ system including digestion, skin, thermo-regulation, bowel, heart rhythms, fluid retention, weight, etc.

HA: Yes. Hormonal imbalance and physical disturbances go hand

in hand—they are often the underlying cause for anxiety, fatigue, digestive problems, energy level, metabolism, circulation, elimination, bone health and more.

Continued on page 38 berkswomen2women.com 37

Health 2Wellness Q: What are some of the common myths or

misconceptions about hormone changes?

HA: Menopause, also humorously called “Men-o-pause,” used

to be the natural break from child bearing to wisdom years.

These years are in essence a time of internal maturing, of the release of old patterns and a new sense of personal power and inner strength.

SP: Myth: Estrogen is bad. This is a common myth that began to

proliferate in 2002, when a study was conducted of women age 65+ who were using Prempro (“Women’s Health Initiative” study). The study was halted because one additional woman in the study was identified to have breast cancer than the general population. It was not determined whether estrogen or progesterone was the cause or influencing factor. However, as a result, estrogen therapy is no longer recommended by many.

There is no evidence that there is anything wrong with natural estrogen, which can be sourced from the Sawyer Yam. It is applied transdermally (on the skin), which allows it to effectively absorb into the system, without processing in the liver (as an oral would). As a result, it will not increase risk of blood clots.

LW: Myth: “Hormones” are a female issue. It is normal for all

humans to experience changes in their hormones that may impact other systems in the body. So men may experience a similar set of symptoms that have been previously noted in my answers.

As the modern world left behind the natural views in favor of ‘more progressive’ approaches, menopause was suddenly seen as something bad, as the loss of how we knew ourselves, our sexuality, our beauty, and our place as productive people in society. Menopause is the most natural and important time of any woman’s life. It brings us face to face with all of who we are; it’s a time to be embraced, not feared.

Hormones shift in response to stress, to major life changes, and before, during and after child birth, and since all hormones are interrelated, we must include insulin, thyroid, and adrenal health in addition to the sex hormones.

Q: Can diet and/or exercise influence hormones?

Or hormone transitions?

SP: Besides improving overall health, exercise is known to

reduce symptomatic periods, reducing cramping and flow, and enhance vitality during pregnancy and childbirth.

There is no question caloric restriction can benefit everyone.

In studies, those cultures that live the longest eat a balanced, nutrient-rich, natural and spare diet.

LW: A bsolutely. There is a reason the clichéd list of recom-

mendations from your doctor is important to heed.* Not maintaining the basic health requirements can impact hormone production (over or under production) and therefore may impact your health. In these cases, health changes can become a chicken and egg situation. On a positive note, this means complying with health recommendations can have a positive impact on your overall health rather quickly.

*To Live a Healthy Lifestyle, you will need: • Ample sleep • Hydration • Healthy nutrition • Manage stress • Limit alcohol • Eliminate smoking

HA: Absolutely. Movement of the body and grounding our bodies

is vital to rebalancing our hormones. It will be important to eat a balanced diet, sleep on a routine schedule and take gentle care of ourselves. We want to offer our bodies the best chance for quality days. Ignoring our basic self-care needs can add to spikes in cortisol (for example, lack of sleep and increased stress are cortisol/adrenal issues).

38 Women2Women Summer 2015

Q: Any suggestions for empowering women to

speak more openly about hormones? Or for navigating changes in an open way?

SP: Seek a healthcare provider who “hears” you; that you can

connect with. This will allow you to speak openly as a patient—providing the health care provider with all of the information s/he needs to support your evolving needs.

LW: I f you have any concerns about changes in your health, please take them to your healthcare provider. S/he may not be able to provide an immediate solution, but at least your concerns will begin to be addressed. And don’t be disheartened if s/he recommends adjustments toward a healthy lifestyle. Take heed. These changes may be all you need to be on your path to improved health.

HA: Yes. If your family prefers not to speak of their experience,

or if that history is not desirable (perhaps negative or uninformed or unavailable), find a woman mentor a generation or half-generation older than you who has a positive view of these changes and who is willing to share her experience with you and support you during these times. Identify someone you trust, whose journey resulted in a better version of herself! My practice has offered support to groups of women who come together to be supported during this time.

Q: Did I miss anything you would like to address?

SP: So many women don’t realize that they don’t have to suffer

with symptoms. There are safe, responsible, healthy options.

Also, symptoms do not last forever. Once women are 10 years post-menopause, things look up!

LW: I can’t stress enough the value of living a healthy lifestyle.

If you feel out of balance, evaluate your lifestyle choices and try to rebalance. These steps will always improve your health.

HA: Staying connected to our bodies is a constant journey of

discovery. The more we can understand what makes us feel “well,” the greater our awareness of when something is “off,” “different” or has “changed.” Working with a provider who helps us walk through this process—and who is willing to work with you on an ongoing basis—is vital to managing transitions with grace with the goal of a new better version of you!

I have seen women in my practice who at the onset of these times were given anti-anxiety medication from their medical doctors. Often these medicines complicate her process, making it more difficult without addressing the underlying issue. So, please consider an alternative way of addressing your mental health first. berkswomen2women.com 39

Health 2Wellness

Seasonal

Skincare Tips Samara Stork, Brand Manager, Bell Tower Salon & Spa

D

o you find that you’re stuck in a skincare rut, using the same product regimen that you have for the past 10 or even 20 years?

If so, is it working for you?

Chances are the answer is a resounding “no” and part of the reason may be that you’re not responding to the way your skin changes and adapts from season to season.

Along with the annual changes in season come changes in our blood, metabolism and skin. As you may recall learning back in high school biology, your skin is the largest organ of your body. Parts of it are visible every day (especially in the summer) and as women, many of us feel that it’s a major concern to take good care of it!

Niculina Pascovici, lead aesthetician at Bell Tower with more than 30 years’ experience, offers the following ideas on how you can keep your skin looking great as the season transitions from summer to autumn.

With the hot weather and humidity that comes with a Berks County summer, your skin will naturally produce more oil. That can be great news for those of us with dry or

40 Women2Women Summer 2015

combination skin, but if your skin is oily you will definitely be on the lookout for some different products to keep your complexion flawless. Skip thick, heavy moisturizers during the summer months. Instead, opt for a hydrating serum and a lightweight moisturizer with built-in sun protection of at least SPF 30. Serums are super-lightweight and concentrated, so they pack more “punch” than your average moisturizer. Pascovici also recommends that you have a professional skincare treatment at least once a month to keep your skin clear, smooth and supple.

A licensed aesthetician will evaluate your unique skin combination to choose services and products that will work best for you.

When asked what is different about an aesthetician recommending products versus grabbing something at the drug store or a cosmetics counter, she responded: “Your face is seen by everyone you encounter EVERY DAY, so you want to do all you can to help it look and feel great, right? You wouldn’t attempt to cut your own hair, would you?”

Great summer treatment options include Microdermabrasion, gentle glycolic peels or a Facial that includes Vitamin C. Pascovici’s pick for a professional treatment is Bell Tower’s Citrus-A-Peel Facial and a great masque for at-home maintenance 4-5 times per week.

She’s been recommending the Natura Bisse C+C Vitamin Intensive Masque quite a bit to her guests. But don’t just stop at your face, keep your body moisturized daily! The best times to apply body moisturizer in the summer are after showering or swimming. Be sure

to use a moisturizer that is alcohol-free, so re-application every few hours isn’t necessary!

Another great option for the summer months is to choose a moisturizer that also has firming properties. After all, every little bit of firming helps during swimsuit season, right?

Once the summer season is over and the bathing suits are packed away, the weather starts to cool and your skin will naturally become drier. As soon as you notice extra dryness or tightness, Pascovici encourages you to “listen to your skin” and switch to a heavier moisturizer. She likes Natura Bisse’s Essential Shock Intense Cream. For your professional treatments, you should opt for hydrating facials or light chemical peels that can get rid of summer damage and help with anti-aging. A favorite of hers is Bell Tower’s Time Reversal Facial that includes a glycol-peel as part of the treatment.

If you don’t have professional skincare treatments every month, try to commit to doing them at the start of each season. That way, a professional can see what changes

your skin is going through and he or she can recommend products that will benefit you for that entire season.

At home, Pascovici recommends that you start using heavier creams layered over a serum at night that can help to repair, lift and firm your skin during the cooler months. You may ask, “Why should I use a heavy cream and a serum? I can just wear the same cream that I use for daytime.” Heavier creams are often thicker and contain higher levels of active ingredients that are used to repair and re-hydrate skin. Combined with serum that has high concentrations of active ingredients for hydrating, firming or decongesting, your skin will get better results faster. Your skin, along with the rest of your body, uses the time that you are asleep to regenerate itself, which is why it’s a wonderful opportunity to provide it with some added hydration and repair. And, even though you’ll be repairing at night, don’t do more damage during the day!

rotation, many women forget about the SPF during daytime hours, but you will still want to protect your skin from the sun’s rays, even though they won’t be as strong.

No matter the season, to keep your skin in great shape the keys are to cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate your skin properly every day.

Hydrating your skin includes drinking lots of water daily, which I know so many of us are already in the habit of doing. But for those of you who aren’t, you’ll be shocked at the difference that it makes in your skin. These three “must-do’s” will be sure to keep your skin looking and feeling great all year long!

Once weather gets cooler and the jackets and sweaters are back in your wardrobe berkswomen2women.com 41

Women2Know

&

:

More Women2Know looks behind the scenes at outstanding women who have successfully contributed to an organization’s successes, inspire and motivate others to achieve, and personify the mission and objectives of Women2Women.

Photo by Megan Yohn

Q: What has led you to your current career path?

Heather Adams Executive Director, BCTV

42 Women2Women Summer 2015

A: Berks County has afforded me some wonderful opportunities in my life and career, so I think it really is the community that has lead me to where I am. At BCTV specifically I saw the chance to be a part of an organization that could serve various communication needs for citizens—sharing ideas, promoting plans, and educating each other. I wanted to be a part of that, making ‘airtime’ or ‘publicity’ available to so many initiatives and individuals. I am thankful every day that they believed in me to bring me aboard.

Throughout my career and with projects and events I have participated in, people are always brainstorming “how do we get the word out?”—I want BCTV/bctv. org to be the way you ‘get the word out’.

This is a place for people to be heard; a place to educate and inform the masses.

Citizens should be confident in us as an enduring resource.

know you will learn something. Believe me, I watch and read a lot of BCTV/ bctv.org—and there is so much going on out there!

Q: What is your favorite quote, or words that keep you grounded?

A: “What matters most is how well you walk through the fire.”– Charles Bukowski Q: What should people know about BCTV?

A: We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit with 7 staff members operating two cable channels (BCTV and MAC—the Municipal Access Channel for Comcast Reading), a website, journalistic endeavors, production services and editing. We can only operate with the help of volunteers, and donations. There is a constant demand on our capacity and it is important to remember that we give a voice to hundreds of organizations and individuals. We keep our platform and Q: Why is BCTV important services affordable to ensure that access to this community? to them is attainable, but we still have to pay our bills. I know that supporting and A: Because we deserve access to free disdonating to community media may not be tribution of local information and to ‘sexy’, but I encourage everyone to do the participate in a platform that supports following: Ask your favorite organization the sharing of ideas and discussion of if they utilize our services. Do they send issues. In Berks especially, where there us press releases? Host a program? Have is such a call to action for renewal, and they been a guest on a program? Do they growth—citizens deserve a forum of request for events to be covered or taped public access to share their successes and broadcast? 99% of the time the answer and challenges. Visit bctv.org anytime is ‘yes’. You can keep that conduit viable or turn on the television channel, and I by supporting us, too.

They need to hear about careers, and life Q: Anyone inspire you? choices, and struggles, and rewards. It doesn’t matter what you do, there is value A: A lot of people inspire me, for a lot of A: Currently my professional mission is to different reasons. I don’t think a day goes in chances you took, the resources you guide BCTV and bctv.org into new opporby that I don’t take away a little spark uncovered, and the lessons you learned. tunities. Technology and media evolve at of insight or excitement or humor from Don’t keep your stories to yourself, when breakneck speed, and we need to be very someone who crosses my path. they can open up a new world for somedecisive about what the best options are in one else. order to continue the effective transfer of …and, my Chris. My significant other information throughout our community. is a selfless, hard worker who makes his Q: What is the most valuable People consume information and interact own path—to me he is the encourager way women can support with content differently now than they of work and play balance, my downeach other? did even five years ago—and five years to-earth reality-checker, and chief from now it will be different again. We recharger-of-batteries.

A: Share information and experiences will be celebrating our 40th anniversary openly, and make connections and in 2016 and while so many things have introductions.

They say there is no reason Q: What do you see when changed the desire for the delivery of local you look in the mirror? to ‘reinvent the wheel’ so let’s not leave information is still incredibly strong, so people struggling to get through doors the need for innovation and funding is and challenges that those around them A: A determined person with vision and an everyday challenge. heart—and someone who never gave have experience in navigating. Give ‘em up an ounce of her personality along the key. Tell ’em the secret password. We Q: What do you think all the way. women should be doing? can move our endeavors forward with our collective genius rather than each of us going it alone.

A: Talking to young women. They need to see the endless amount of options and opportunities that lie ahead of them.

Q: What’s your mission?

berkswomen2women.com 43

Women 2Know

2015 ATHENA® Andrea J. Funk, CEO at Cambridge-Lee Industries LLC

A

ndrea J. Funk, CEO of Cambridge-Lee Industries LLC, was honored with the 2015 ATHENA® Leadership award that was presented at the Women’s Expo Spring Renewal, earlier this Spring. Andi was the 31st recipient to receive this award in Berks County, on behalf of the Chamber and Women2Women. The award is presented to a recipient for professional excellence, community service and for actively assisting women in their attainment of professional excellence and leadership skills.

“The way other people refer to you is more revealing than the way you see yourself,” Funk said. “The things we say and do inspire other people to remember us.” She delivered a powerful speech around the three nicknames

she was referred to over the course of her career. Andi was joined with her family and three children to help celebrate this prestigious honor.

Andi has been the CEO of Cambridge-Lee Industries since September 2013. She has been a member of the executive management team and board since December 2010, when she joined the company as chief financial officer and treasurer. From 2007 to 2010, Funk served as director, operations planning and reporting for Carpenter Technology Inc. Prior to that, she served as senior director of manufacturing finance, director of global business development and director of financial planning and analysis with Arrow International from 2000 to 2007.

Andi sits on a number of non-profit boards and is a very active volunteer in our community. She frequently speaks at local universities and community organizations, and is an advocate of young women pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

Barbara L. Flowers

Executive Division/Receptionist, Tompkins VIST Bank “Have you reached a ‘mature’ age? Are there things you wanted to do in your life and didn’t—or, couldn’t? Well, don’t hold back—do them NOW!! As they say “60 is the new 40” so if you now have the time and wherewithal—get busy doing what you always wanted to do. In my case, it’s travel. I travel all over the globe by myself. Since my destinations are not always the most popular because they tend to the exotic due to my love of wildlife and nature, it was difficult to find fellow travelers. Solo travel is becoming quite popular—especially with women.

In 2013 I did Borneo & Thailand; in 2014 I did Tanzania & Kenya. These trips gave me fabulous opportunities to see and experience the wildlife I adore and meet people (guides, drivers, hotel staff, etc.) who share my passions.

So get out there and go for it! I did.”

44 Women2Women Summer 2015

Idea Exchange 10 Cool Podcasts Every Woman Should Know Commuting to work, or enjoying a beautiful summer day with a run or walk, try listening to a podcast. Here are 10 cool podcasts that according to the Millennial-focused professional network Levo, every woman should know!

1. Dear Sugar

The cult-favorite advice column from The Rumpus

2. Invisibilia Explores everything invisible…think emotions, beliefs, ideas, and assumptions 3. This American Life Real-life stories that will make you laugh and even cry 4. Death, Sex, & Money Address big-life issues and difficult choices 5. Love & Radio Love and Life 6. Stuff Mom Never Told You Explores issues such as women in stem to pregnancy 7. How to Do Everything Addresses and answers all of your “how to” questions 8. StarTalk Devoted to all things space and bridges the gap between pop culture and science 9. The Lively Show Features interviews with entrepreneurs and successful women 10. Gilmore Guys Two male hosts dissect the Gilmore Girls and interview people from the show Source: Levo

Julia Nickey has been faithfully drinking warm lemon water in the morning…“Starting my day with 16 oz. of warm lemon water helps me increase my daily water intake. I feel more hydrated and my skin looks better!” Read on to learn the “16 Benefits of Drinking Warm Lemon Water.”

16 Health Benefits Of Drinking Warm Lemon Water  Lemon is an excellent and rich source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient that protects the body against immune system deficiencies  Lemons contain pectin fiber which is very beneficial for colon health and also serves as a powerful antibacterial  It balances and maintains the pH levels in the body  Having warm lemon juice early in the morning helps flush out toxins  It aids digestion and encourages the production of bile  It is also a great source of citric acid, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium  It helps prevent the growth and multiplication of pathogenic bacteria that cause infections and diseases  It helps reduce pain and inflammation in joints and knees as it dissolves uric acid  It helps cure the common cold  The potassium content in lemon helps nourish brain and nerve cells  It strengthens the liver by providing energy to the liver enzymes when they are too diluted  It helps balance the calcium and oxygen levels in the liver. In case of heartburn, taking a glass of concentrated lemon juice can give relief  It is of immense benefit to the skin and it prevents the formation of wrinkles and acne  It helps maintain the health of the eyes and helps fight against eye problems  Aids in the production of digestive juices  Lemon juice helps replenish body salts especially after a strenuous workout session

Source: Food Matters 46 Women2Women Summer 2015

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