Phenomenal Woman Magazine

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CIERA SANDERS FOUNDER/CEO I CARE HEALTHCARE SERVICES THE ART OF BUSINESS GIVING LET'S CREATE JOY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

DR. TONJEH BAH, MD

Hematology/Oncology, The MetroHealth System

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Beletu (Belé) Wondwossen Founder / Publisher ™ ™

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Shelley M. Shockley Managing Editor Writers Shelley M. Shockley Marsha Walker Eastwood Brittany Garrett Rhonda Crowder

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Creative Belé Wondwossen Jason Garrett Cover Story: Shelley Shockley Photos: Jason Garrett The Blush Gallery Contributing Writers Rhonda Crowder Michelle Phillips Fay Marianna Marron Letitia Nall Stephanie Phelps Kimberly Smith-Woodford

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From the Editor: Shelley M. Shockley | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | LET'S CREATE JOY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON As long as I can remember October through January 1st has been a special time for me because the holiday season officially begins with my birthday in October. After my own “national holiday” the celebrations and family gatherings continue well into the New Year. Over the last decade the thrill of the season has waned a little as I learned to navigate this time without my parents.

You see, many of the traditions that we work to continue began with them and in the early days it was hard to go on with that absence, but we persevered. The number of gatherings has decreased but the joy of the season continues.

This year finding that joy is challenging on multiple levels the loss of several family members, the upheaval in the world, inflation and the never-ending political chaos in our country. These challenges can wrap your mind and heart in a cloud of soot if you allow it, so instead of allowing matters that we have no control over to dampen our spirits, let's create joy. Combat the negative energy with a heaping dose of gratitude, love and hope as we say farewell to 2023!

If you're wondering how you can create joy I'm here to offer a few suggestions that I will use, because as I mentioned this time can be difficult for me too.

Ideas on how to create joy If your lack of joy stems from the loss of loved ones, let's come up with a way to honor their memory during our celebrations. For me that includes hosting Christmas Brunch for my family and friends, thus creating new memories and sharing stories of those no longer here. I recently read or heard that the best way to keep the spirit of our loved ones alive is to speak their names regularly so let's all shout their names and share a story.

I think the easiest situations to combat are the upheaval in the world, and the political chaos. The way to accomplish these tasks is to limit the information you ingest. As I write this we have wars in Ukraine, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Israel and Gaza - that is just too much to handle. The first three conflicts are not a part of the daily news cycle anymore, but if you're trolling on social media you will find posts highlighting the carnage. I am a news junkie, but to guard my peace and find joy I'm going to limit my news intake, and I strongly urge you to join me.

Inflation is something we can't run from, but we can be creative in our approach to dealing with its effects. High inflation impacts every aspect of our lives causing the need to shift our focus on the necessities. Some ideas include sharing the cost of holiday gatherings by encouraging family members to contribute a dish or two so that the 4 ▒ NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

financial burden doesn't rest with one family. Instead of trying to buy presents for everyone during lean times, I focus on the youngest members of the family. To me the joy of the holidays rests with them and my heart swells when they gleefully open gifts.

Finally let's create some joy by highlighting gratitude this season. If you have youngsters gathering with you this year gather some paper, glue, markers, stickers and all of the items needed to create personal Gratitude Journals.

Have them write their first entry during the family gathering. We can't leave the adults out, give everyone a small piece of paper to write down one thing they are grateful for and place them in a jar. As you're sitting around digesting all of the good food you've eaten pass the jar around and share the notes with the family.

If you're still looking for hope or gratitude, please take time to read this edition of Phenomenal Women, our features this month exhibit the importance of good health care and supporting small businesses in our communities.

As working adults our focus is on ensuring we have good health insurance to maintain our health without incurring huge expenses. But have you considered the type of care you may need as you age? Many of us have not, and I am one of them, but this is something that we need to ponder as we age. Ciera Sanders, founder of I Care Healthcare Services LLC, has spent more than a decade in the home healthcare field and offers insight on the shrinking workforce that is only getting worse. In response to personal needs, and a desire to put care back into the practice of home healthcare she launched her firm with an eye on making a difference in her community. To learn more about the challenges in this industry and the remarkable work she is doing, I invite you to read her story.

Continuing with healthcare, our cover story features Dr. Tonjeh Bah, a medical doctor specializing in hematology and oncology at MetroHealth Medical Center. Dr. Bah's story is inspiring and highlights the importance of taking your time to find your true vocation. Born and raised in Cameroon, Dr. Bah has lived in the United States more than 20 years and has a passion for helping people. She is also helping to develop Metro's Sickle Cell program along with a citywide program in collaboration with University Hospitals and the Cleveland Clinic. I encourage you to read about Dr. Bah, a champion of excellent health care.

As we enter the holiday season, columnist Marsha Walker Eastwood utilizes wholesome television shows to highlight the life cycle of small businesses in our country. She looks at the best of times, worst of times and the age or wisdom to encourage us to support small businesses all year, and not just in November. Learn how you can make a difference by reading her column.

From Phenomenal Woman magazine to you our readers, I wish you peace and blessings this holiday season and a safe and prosperous New Year!

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COVER

Shelley M. Shockley

06 SMALL BUSINESS

SURVIVAL STRATEGIES

Marsha Walker Eastwood

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08 WHAT WOMEN

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The Art of Business Gifting: Building Relationships, One Gift at a Time Gloria M. Ware

TONJEH BAH, MD CIERA SANDERS PAGE 10 A proud Clevelander who has spent her entire career caring for others, established “I Care Healthcare Services LLC” out of a passion for the same and her own family's special needs.

Sanders, who grew up in the St. Clair area, is a mother of two and a small Yorkie named Poochie. A member of the US Air Force since 2008, she relocated to Columbus but returned to Cleveland in 2020 during the pandemic to be closer to the family. Her desire for an education and hard work led her to earn a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, and she is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in healthcare administration.

Tonjeh Bah, MD, Hematology/ Oncology at MetroHealth traveled more than 7,000 miles along a few curved roads to find her vocation. She recently took time out of her busy schedule to talk with Phenomenal Woman about her career and journey to northeast Ohio.

Dr. Bah was born and raised in Cameroon, which, according to the World Food Programme, is a lowermiddle-income country that experienced consistent economic growth prior to 2019 yet has a consistent level of poverty hovering near 55%. Tonjeh, however, was raised in what she said would be classified as a middleclass home.

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SMALL BUSINESS SURVIVAL STRATEGIES “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” – Charles Dickens When Charles Dickens wrote those words, he described life during the French Revolution.

Little did he realize how apropos they would be to describe By: Marsha Walker Eastwood, the mindset of many BsEd, MSHSVC PWM Contributing Writer small business owners centuries later. Every November, consumers are encouraged to support small businesses. Yet, the data from the Small Business Administration shows that from year to year, the support wanes as more than 595,000 small businesses go out of business. The reasons vary, but the one thing they have in common is the buying habits of the American consumer and the mindset of the small business owner.

Admittedly, not everyone has the mettle to be a clockpunching worker, and there are many great ideas out there just waiting to be taken to the marketplace, whether virtual or brick-and-mortar. Ambition and belief in self are the driving forces that fuel the fire of small business ownership. However, from a consumer standpoint, that fire does not translate to financial support for small businesses.

It Was the Best of Times To appreciate how impactful this mindset can be, think back to the days of the general mercantile, the blacksmith shop, the local eatery, and the lumber mill, much like the scenarios often seen in stories like Little House on The Prairie, and The Waltons. In the Little House days, farmers bought seeds, corn, and feed from the local shopkeeper to grow crops, raise chickens to feed their families in the winter, and sell to the townsfolk via the local mercantile.

Consumers would jump on a buckboard and ride to Olsen's Mercantile to buy everything from fresh eggs to fresh fruits and vegetables to piece goods, from stoves to plows.

They could walk across the road, buy lumber, or have a horse shod. Farmers also multi-tasked as service people who made furniture and clothing published the local newspaper. The town doctor treated humans and animals alike. This was the 'best of times. The gold rush hit a lot of small businesses hard as people abandoned the towns for tent camps where they panned for gold. While small businesses closed due to the dwindling customer base, new pop-up businesses catering to gold diggers began to litter the landscape. Consumer support for these businesses flowed like water in the rapids, and the best of times continued.

Fast forward a few decades to Walton's Mountain. Over on the mountain, Ike Godsey's store was the retail hub of Walton's Mountain. He stocked almost everything imaginable, from canned goods to piece goods, and if it was not stocked, Cora Beth, who also served as the local realtor, would order it for a customer. There was an 6 ▒ NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

ambience and a sense of family. More people abandoned the notion of starting up a small business except for gas stations, boarding houses, restaurants, and entertainment venues that fueled those small businesses.

People who supported those businesses did not and could not travel to places to get what they could find close to home.

As we entered the 1950's, mom-and-pop stores dotted the landscape on every corner in almost every neighborhood and became the new faces of small business ownership.

The shop owners knew their customers offered payment plans and a lending ear. A person could walk to the dry cleaner, grocery store/butcher shop, shoeshine stand, barber shop, hairdresser, and even entertainment venues.

The businesses were small but accommodating. The owners were friendly and they knew their customers, and anticipated their needs. Small businesses thrived, and life was good for the small visionaries.

It Was the Worst of Times As the population grew, big companies began encroaching on small business territories. Slowly, the neighborhood mom-and-pop store began to do a slow fade thanks to larger companies opening stores across the country selling items not reasonably accessible or cost-effective for small businesses. The owners were also aging, and although many started businesses not only to fulfill a personal dream but to support their families, many of the next generation had no interest in running the family business. That generation did not dream the dream of days gone by. Instead, they found the constraints suffocating and ventured off into other business areas and found it more interesting and rewarding to work for a large conglomerate that provided a reliable paycheck and benefits. There was potential to move up the ladder, and that comfort zone made life good. This cast a pall over small businesses as they saw their customers flock to the new stores that were just giant, almost unimaginable versions of Ike Godsey's store on Walton's Mountain. For the small business owners, this was the worst of times.

It Was the Age of Wisdom Small business owners learned a valuable lesson. While mom-and-pop stores may have ruled in the past, the secret to survival was to specialize and diversify. There was still a large number of consumers who preferred a more individualized touch, more tailored to their personal needs. Home-based bakeries, dressmaker shops that created tailored bridal gowns, prom dresses, and professional wardrobes.Tailor shops, and enhanced men's grooming services began to fill the niche markets for those who had picked up the gauntlet and learned from the missteps and failures of those who came before them.

They also learned how to weather the impact of situations beyond their control, such as The Great Depression. Case in point is the story of Madame C.J. Walker, whose hair products company weathered the storms of copyright

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infringement and The Great Depression. Some of the businesses that succumbed to disasters beyond their control regrouped and emerged as proverbial phoenixes rising from the ashes. They had the skill the knowledge, the will, and the drive to regroup and become bigger and better than before.

The Epoch of Belief, The Epoch of Incredulity Just when it seemed that small business ownership had dwindled to almost imperceptible numbers, the light on the horizon began to shine brightly as the immigrant population began to surge. Thousands of Vietnamese immigrants came to the United States with unshakeable faith that they would take full advantage of the opportunities that lay before them. They secured jobs, and multiple families shared a small space until each could live independently and open their own small businesses that filled ready and waiting niches. Their restaurants and nail businesses grew from being a series of small stores dotting neighborhoods that once hosted those mom-andpop stores. Asian immigrants opened hair stores selling hair accessories, wigs, and cosmetics in strip plazas in almost any storefront with a rent sign in the window.

Immigrants from The Middle East reopened closed gas stations, convenience stores, clothing stores, and Halal food stores. Naturalized citizens brought their culture to small businesses such as neighborhood stores, specialty

shops and bakeries, restaurants, etc. The same held true for other ethnic groups, and just as the old disappeared, the success of the new ones created a true epoch of incredulity. The most principal factor was a lifetime of support from within their respective communities, along with consumers looking for new shopping opportunities.

It Was the Winter of Despair The fact that over 595,000 small businesses fold each year is a sad commentary on society at large. No business can survive very long without community support. While online businesses can survive without physical contact, those small brick-and-mortar stores cannot. It is all well and good to have Small Business Saturday, but the reality is that small businesses need support 365 days a year. Small business owners continue to dream the dream of a time gone by when hope was high and life worth living. They dream the dream that consumers will remember that huge conglomerates cannot provide the kind of personal treatment and care that a small business can. Society has a short memory. Daycare centers, bakers, transportation companies, specialty boutiques, a myriad of handmade jewelry makers, candlemakers, candy makers, specialty restaurants, and service providers are all offshoots of the Olsens in Walnut Creek, The Godseys on Walton's Mountain, and Madame C.J. Walker all helped create a small business that drove commerce in this country.

It is important that we all remember to patronize small businesses not just on Small Business Saturday or just in the month of November but every day of every month of every year. Remember, malls were created so that large anchor stores and small businesses could co-exist, but as the malls failed, so did the small businesses located within them. <

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What Women Need to Know About Stroke Risks pregnancy can shape the lifelong health of you and your child. If you're planning to become pregnant or are currently pregnant, it's important to regularly monitor your blood pressure.

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t may not be widely known that women face unique risk factors for stroke throughout their lifetime. Things like pregnancy, preeclampsia and chronic stress can increase the risk for high blood pressure, a leading cause of stroke.

Cardiovascular disease, including stroke, is the leading cause of death among women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and 1 in 5 women will have a stroke. However, a large majority of strokes can be prevented.

Caring for yourself by understanding your risk factors can help reduce your risk for stroke and provide a better quality of life. Start managing your stroke risk with these tips from the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association: Monitor Your Blood Pressure The first step you can take in reducing your risk for stroke is knowing your blood pressure and keeping it in a healthy range. High blood pressure is the No. 1 preventable cause of stroke, according to the American Heart Association.

The best way to know your blood pressure is to have it measured at least once per year by a health care professional and regularly monitor it at home then discuss the numbers with a doctor. For most people, a normal blood pressure should be 120/80 mm HG or less.

In addition to properly monitoring blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, eating healthfully and reducing or eliminating alcohol and tobacco usage can help control blood pressure. If you do develop high blood pressure, work with a health care professional on a plan to help manage it.

Plan for Pregnancy In the United States, high blood pressure during pregnancy is becoming more common, according to the CDC, and medical conditions including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and blood clots during pregnancy all increase stroke risk during and immediately following a pregnancy.

Managing conditions like high blood pressure before getting pregnant helps keep you and your baby healthy during pregnancy and beyond. In addition, your health during and immediately after a 8 ▒ NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Take Care of Your Mental Health Some stress is unavoidable but constant stress is not healthy. Chronic or constant stress may lead to high blood pressure and other unhealthy behavior choices, which can increase risk for stroke.

Based on findings in a Stress in America 2020 survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, the top sources of stress are money, work, family responsibilities and health concerns. Managing your stress and blood pressure can improve your overall health and well-being. Reclaim control of your schedule and build in time to invest in your health. Find 10 minutes every day to do something for you, like listening to music, meditating or going for a walk.

Learn the Warning Signs A stroke can happen to anyone at any point in life.

Immediate treatment may help minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death. Learn how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T: · Face drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven? · Arm weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? · Speech difficulty – Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand?

Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence like “The sky is blue.” · Time to call 911 – If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 and get to a hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared.

Talk to your doctor about ways to improve your wellbeing and help p r e ve n t s t r o ke .

Find more wellness tips at stroke.org.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

jabalidevgroup.com

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Ciera Sanders, WORKING TO PUT THE “CARE” BACK IN HEALTHCARE “For he who has health has hope; and he who has hope, has everything.” – Owen Arthur

Providing adequate and quality healthcare services prevents diseases and enhances the quality of life. While these facts remain globally proven, steps taken toward expanding access to healthcare have not kept pace with the demand for such services. According to the National Association of Community Health Centers, nearly a third of Americans lack access to primary care, with a quarter being children.” These gaps take a heavy toll on the overall economy of the country and, in the process take the lives of people.

To meet the ever-increasing demand of patients and the elderly, alternative solutions are necessary to offset the burden on hospitals, clinics, and other similar institutions.

One such option is Home Healthcare Services.

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, home health care aims to treat an illness or injury. Home health care may help beneficiaries recover and regain independence and help them become more self-sufficient. Home health care helps maintain current condition or level of function, or slow decline. These services are less expensive, more convenient, and more effective.

Early results from Independence at Home, a five-year Medicare demonstration to test the effectiveness of homebased primary care, showed that all participating programs reduced emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and 30-day readmissions for homebound patients, saving an average of $2,700 per beneficiary per year and increasing patient and caregiver satisfaction.

Ciera Sanders, a proud Clevelander who has spent her entire career caring for others, established “I Care Healthcare Services LLC” out of a passion for the same and her own family's special needs.

Sanders, who grew up in the St. Clair area, is a mother of two and a small Yorkie named Poochie. A member of the US Air Force since 2008, she relocated to Columbus but returned to Cleveland in 2020 during the pandemic to be closer to the family. Her desire for an education and hard 10 ▒ NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

work led her to earn a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, and she is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in healthcare administration.

Early on, Sanders worked as a full-time home care nurse and later became a medically fragile foster parent. She said of this self-fulfilling and noble task, “becoming a special needs foster parent is something you do because it's the right thing to do. Service before self is one of my personal and professional core values.” She continued, “Although it is rewarding and fulfilling, it isn't something you can do that will allow you to sustain a decent living.

Because I still needed to pay bills and care for my family, I had to continue working as a nurse.”

Sanders had to depend on other nurses and caregivers to take care of her medically fragile babies when she needed to go to work. However, these employees too often didn't show up for work, burdening her family, who had to take over the caregiving task. These unfortunate problems led her to call off work, resulting in her job loss and muchneeded income.

These challenges put Sanders's creative mind to work seeking solutions. She said, “One day, it dawned on me.

Why not start your own agency? You are already a

I Care Healthcare newest partner with Cleveland Transit Crisis Intervention Team

homecare nurse; you know what it takes and what is needed from a consumer standpoint. Step out on faith and do it.” Continuing she said, “I let my negative experiences with other agencies as a nurse and as a consumer guide me to developing what is now I Care Healthcare. That was also the day I developed I Care Healthcare's first mission statement, Bringing Care Back into Healthcare.”

Today, Sanders' company provides affordable alternatives to traditional nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It is also a Medicaid-certified healthcare company providing specialized health-related at-home professional support services to individuals with disabilities and chronic medical conditions.

With a mission to 'bring care back into healthcare by enhancing the quality of life of every individual we support', I Care Healthcare strives to support quality of life by helping people live longer, stronger, and healthier.

When Sanders was asked what makes her company stand out from her peers, she explained, “The biggest competitive advantage I have over many of my competitors is me. I am not saying this to sound pompous or arrogant by any means. I'm saying it because it is true; I am dedicated to becoming a global leader in this industry and changing home care for the better.” She continued, “My knowledge and skills as a healthcare professional, my background as a special needs foster parent, being the person on the other side of the business, and knowing what it is like firsthand to desperately search for reliable home care services so I can have some normalcy in my life and my military background which taught me to be very disciplined and always have integrity.”

According to a report by the independent source for health policy research, KFF, about half of U.S. adults say they have difficulty affording health care costs. Many adults 65 or older report difficulty paying for various aspects of health care, and affording gasoline and transportation costs is now a top worry for Americans followed by unexpected medical bills.

'I Care Healthcare Services' continues to play its role of providing services at affordable costs and, in the process, tries to bridge the gap between supply and demand in our region. The Company, however, faces numerous challenges, chief among which is a shortage of care workers.

Sanders explains, “Ohio anticipates 229,800 direct care worker vacancies between 2018 and 2028. These professionals aid the disabled and elderly in performing daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. The shortage is primarily caused by the inadequate compensation and rates of the Medicaid program, which provides services for individuals with disabilities and older adults. The average pay for a direct support professional in Ohio is between $10 to $12 per hour. Agencies are capped at the rates they can give because the reimbursement from the Ohio Department of Medicaid determines the subsidies.”

Sanders noted that caregivers are leaving the industry and going to other companies such as Amazon and even fast food chains that pay higher salaries.

With a motto to always deliver quality services to her customers, Sanders had to make her Care Team the focal point of her business. “Without dedicated direct support professionals, the Care Team members who work one-onone with our clients, we do not have a business.”

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I Care Healthcare Health screening drive

“We start all of our caregivers at a higher rate than industry standards. Our caregivers are paid between $12 and $14 per hour,” she said. “We strive to build a company culture that lets the Care Team know they are valued and appreciated. We offer educational benefits such as continuing education and advanced skills training, and we have employee appreciation events that foster morale and team building. We always give incentives and bonuses, especially for those members who show dedication to the company.”

There simply aren't enough skilled professionals to meet the demand. This nationwide issue affects any individual with a chronic disability or medical condition who relies on state Medicaid subsidies to help them age in place and remain connected to family and communities.

According to the Ohio Department of Aging, between 2020 and 2040, Ohio's population of those 60 and older is expected to grow more than four times faster than the state's overall population. Projections also show a 51% increase in the portion of Ohioans 85 and older, a population which often has an increased need for support and care. These numbers don't even include the number of individuals with developmental disabilities and those who have served in the armed forces that require care at home.

To improve her entrepreneurial skills, Sanders recently participated in JumpStart's Small Business Impact Program in Cleveland. The twelve-week program focuses on helping entrepreneurs overcome key business issues, emphasizing financial projections and capital pitches.

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Grateful to be a participant in the program, she said, “I have never had a t ra d i t i o n a l m e n t o r. I learned everything about my industry and as a business owner through intensive research and as I grew. The JumpStart program has allowed me to expand my knowledge base as an entrepreneur by teaching me strategies that never occurred to me before. These strategies have been integral to my business operations and growth.” She continued, “Being equipped with a newfound knowledge and skills has allowed me to redefine and adjust to many self-taught practices I developed over the years. I can now put these Strategies into practice and scale my business to the capacity I know it has the potential to become.”

Sanders is active in her community and performs outreach efforts that involve providing and finding resources for those in need. She also speaks to young adults and teens about entrepreneurship. She is currently competing in Season 6 of The Cleveland Chain Reaction program and was recently featured on Kicking It with Kenny.

Moving forward, Sanders, who has served as a nurse for ten years, is keen to earn her doctoral degree and boost her efforts to grow and scale her business to its' fullest potential. She plans to build her personal and business brand and become more involved with outreach in the community.

Closing out the interview and extending messages to young girls and the community, she said, “No matter where you come from, you do not have to be a product of your environment. I know social media puts a lot of pressure on young girls to think they must be a certain way to attract a certain lifestyle, but you can have beauty and brains. I am living proof. If I can do it, without the resources like technology at my fingertips, there isn't a doubt in my mind you can too.” <

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What You Need to Know About Cholesterol Stay in control to help prevent heart disease, heart attack and stroke

from their parents or grandparents – called familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) – that cause them to have too much cholesterol and can lead to premature atherosclerotic heart disease. If you have a family history of FH or problems related to high cholesterol, it's important to get your levels checked.

(Family Features) Understanding and improving cholesterol is important for people of all ages, including children and teens.

Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels can help keep your heart healthy and lower your chances of getting heart disease or having a stroke.

Getting Cholesterol Checked

High cholesterol usually has no symptoms. In fact, about 38% of adults in the United States are diagnosed with high cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association.

Understanding what cholesterol is, the role it plays, when to get screened and how to manage it are important aspects of protecting your overall health and prevent a heart attack or stroke.

Adults age 20 and older should have their cholesterol and other traditional risk factors checked every 4-6 years as long as their risk remains low. After age 40, your health care professional will use an equation to calculate your 10-year risk of heart attack or stroke. People with cardiovascular disease, and those at elevated risk, may need their cholesterol and other risk factors assessed more often.

Understanding Cholesterol A waxy, fat-like substance created by the liver and consumed from meat, poultry and dairy products, cholesterol isn't inherently bad for you. In fact, your body needs it to build cells and make vitamins and other hormones. However, too much cholesterol circulating in the blood can pose a problem.

Managing Cholesterol If you have high cholesterol, understanding your risk for heart disease and stroke is one of the most important things you can do, along with taking steps to lower your cholesterol.

The two types of cholesterol are low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is considered “bad,” and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which can be thought of as “good” cholesterol. Too much of the “bad” kind, or not enough of the “good,” increases the risk of cholesterol slowly building up in the inner walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain.

Cholesterol can join with other substances to form a thick, hard deposit on the inside of the arteries called plaque. This can narrow the arteries and make them less flexible – a condition known as atherosclerosis. If a blood clot forms, it may be more likely to get stuck in one of these narrowed arteries, resulting in a heart attack or stroke.

Often, simply changing certain behaviors can help bring your numbers into line. Eating a heart-healthy diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean or plantbased protein, fish and nuts while limiting red and processed meats, sodium and sugar-sweetened foods and beverages is one of the best ways to lower your cholesterol. While grocery shopping, look for the American Heart Association's HeartCheck mark to help identify foods that can be part of an overall healthy eating pattern.

Other lifestyle changes include losing weight, quitting smoking and becoming more physically active, as a sedentary lifestyle can lower HDL. To help lower both cholesterol and high blood pressure, experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise a week, such as walking, biking or swimming.

Understanding Risk Your body naturally produces all the LDL it needs. An unhealthy lifestyle can make your body produce more LDL than required. Behaviors that may negatively affect your cholesterol levels include lack of physical activity, obesity, eating an unhealthy diet and smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke.

For some people, lifestyle changes may prevent or manage unhealthy cholesterol levels. For others, medication may also be needed. Work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that's right for you. If medication is required, be sure to take it as prescribed.

In addition to unhealthy habits, which are the cause of high LDL cholesterol for most people, some people inherit genes

Controlling your cholesterol may be easier than you think.

Learn more about managing your cholesterol at heart.org/cholesterol.

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PHOTOS: JASON GARRETT The Blush Gallery

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BEING OF SERVICE TO OTHERS DRIVES DR. TONJEH BAH, MD, HEMATOLOGY/ONCOLOGY The road to finding your career is not always a straight path. The journey often begins in high school with an elevated interest in a subject, leading to college enrollment and an adventure into adulthood. Along the way, that path may veer left or right before you find a sense of fulfillment.

While on this journey, the quest is to find more than a job because, according to many, an occupation has no fulfillment. International Speaker and Leadership Coach Scotty Sanders said, “A job is a paid position that provides a means of making a living, while a vocation is a calling, a purpose, or a passion that gives meaning to one's life. Therefore, when a person's job aligns with their vocation, they are more likely to find fulfillment, satisfaction, and purpose in their work.”

Even Cleveland-born Comedian, Television Host, and Author Steve Harvey weighed in on the subject, stating, “Your career is what you're paid for. Your calling is what you're made for.” Dr. Tonjeh Bah, MD, Hematology/ Oncology at MetroHealth traveled more than 7,000 miles along a few curved roads to find her vocation. She recently took time out of her busy schedule to talk with Phenomenal Woman about her career and journey to northeast Ohio.

Dr. Bah was born and raised in Cameroon, which, according to the World Food Programme, is a lowermiddle-income country that experienced consistent economic growth prior to 2019 yet has a consistent level of poverty hovering near 55%. Tonjeh, however, was raised in what she said would be classified as a middleclass home. Her father worked as a nurse, and her mother was an accountant. Dr. Bah's parents instilled in their children the importance of an education. She recalls, “One thing they put in our hearts was the importance of an education. They made sure that even if they didn't have enough for themselves, we all went to school and to good schools. We had our books and anything we needed for school, and they also taught me to remain focused no matter what was going on around me.”

Dr. Bah stood on the foundation laid by her parents and focused on her studies, graduating with a degree in Zoology before following in the footsteps of her older brothers and immigrating to the United States as an international student to study at Southern Arkansas University.

Dr. Bah comes from a close-knit family, which is clearly evident as she talks about her journey to the United States and the sacrifices the family made so each of the five children could further their education. Her parents saved for each of them to have the opportunity to study abroad.

While many entering Science, Engineering, Technology and Math (STEM) fields encounter obstacles to their advancement, Dr. Bah's challenges began with immigrating to a new country and experiencing a new culture.She is the third child and the first girl in the family, so her brothers were already here when she came to the US. Her oldest brother had a flourishing mechanic business in Delaware while her second brother was doing his MBA at Madonna University in Michigan.

Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia, she said, was relatively affordable for her parents, but the transition was not easy at first. But she said, “I was lucky to have mentors.” When she arrived in Magnolia, Arkansas, the southern hospitality of Doctors Burgess and Davenport helped her acclimate to the University. She recalled, “When I got here, the dean of the College of Education, Dr. Ruby Burgess, took me under her wing just like her daughter; she and Dr. Davenport helped me integrate into the US system. They knew my parents weren't there, so they welcomed me into their homes every weekend and taught me to cook American dishes like greens and cornbread.”

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There isn’t much research going on with sickle cell, it’s much better than it was several years ago, but we need pioneers. We need people who will go out there and talk about it, and educate.

“

A devout Catholic, Dr. Bah doesn't believe these encounters were chance or coincidence. Instead, she said, “I'm always blessed; I have the right people placed on my path. I stayed in the dorms, and I had the best roommates and teachers, helping me integrate without missing home that much. By my sophomore year, I was made the resident assistant (RA) of the freshman dorm and that helped me grow tremendously.”

At Southern Arkansas, she majored in biology with a minor in chemistry. She excelled in the classroom, graduating first in her class. Despite the success she had in school and a love for medicine, she was often her biggest obstacle. She remembered her youth, “Growing up, I never thought I would be a doctor. I never thought about big things in my life; that's the simple truth. I wanted to live a simple and happy life. If I'm a mother, I want to be the best mother there could be.”

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The inability to visualize herself as a doctor was a lack of vision and a confirmation of her culture. When speaking of her home, she said, “I struggled with that decision (to become a doctor) because in my tribe women are not doctors.” What she did not see in herself was evident to those around her. She said, “I wasn't sure what my calling was, but I admired doctors. I loved taking care of people. I loved to be at the service of others” Armed with this knowledge after graduation, she moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, to work at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) to see if her calling was in the medical field.

During her tenure at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Tonjeh worked with cancer patients, and the skill and care she exhibited led many of her colleagues to ask if she had considered medical school. Their inquiries reinforced the seed planted by Dr. Jim Rasmussen, her biology professor at SAU who encouraged her by suggesting classes, scholarships, and exams to help her map out a medical career.

She credits him with planting the initial seed that led to her career path by asking her to apply for medical school. As she recounted her time with her now- deceased professor, the admiration and gratitude for him taking an interest in her was clear.

After working as a CNA for three years, she applied to Ross University Medical School. While college was easy, and she excelled, she said medical school challenged her, but she persevered and graduated in 2013. She landed a residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at LSU- Shreveport. The competitive four-year program offered Dr. Bah insight into multiple levels of patient care. She said that Shreveport hospital was a “safety net” facility, where everyone who walked through their doors received medical care whether they had medical insurance or funds to pay for the care they receive.

After completing her residency, Dr. Bah wanted to return to her medical roots in cancer and applied for a fellowship in hematology and oncology. This fellowship immersed 18 ▒ NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

her further into the study of blood disease and cancer, giving her a deeper understanding and expertise. She graduated in June of 2020, and sought out hospitals closer to her parents, who were now residing in Michigan.

In addition to being closer to her parents, Dr. Bah was searching for a “safety net” hospital where she will see both the insured and uninsured. Her search led her to Cleveland's MetroHealth System.

MetroHealth proved to be a good fit on several levels.

She said, “I came on at Metro to be an Oncologist and also to build their sickle cell program.” The Center for Disease Control (CDC) offers this definition of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. In SCD, the red blood cells become hard and sticky and look like a C-shaped farm tool called a “sickle.”

People with SCD can live full lives and enjoy most of the activities others do.

Dr. Bah's interest in sickle cell disease began in Cameroon, where she witnessed neighbors suffering from the disease. She recalled, “I saw firsthand a mother lose three kids over the span of 5 years from complications of sickle cell. In Cameroon, the life expectancy for these patients with sickle cell was dismal due to a lack of treatment and intervention.”

Another obstacle faced was misunderstanding and a lack of education about the disease. Dr. Bah said, “Back then, the people looked at sickle cell as witchcraft toward the afflicted family. They believe either the mother or someone else in the family bewitched the kids causing them to be sick and die young. Seeing the pain my neighbor went through as she buried her 3 children who passed away from sickle cell was very hard to bear. I felt I could do something to relieve her pain or pain of any other family with a child suffering from sickle cell. This is the reason for my love for sickle cell. I want to see these patients live a normal and fulfilled life.”

The CDC reports that approximately 100,000 Americans have SCD and the disease occurs in one out of every 365 African American births. SCD occurs among about 1 out of every 16,300 Hispanic-American births. About 1 in 13 Black or African-American babies is born with sickle cell trait (SCT).

While the numbers in the US are not staggering, there is not a lot of conversation about SCD which Bah attributes to a lack of ambassadors. She said, “We have not had enough advocates in the field, and that's why when I have the opportunity to talk about it, I use it. Research in the field of sickle cell is, much better than it was several years ago. We are still in need of vocal ambassadors in the field. We need people who will go out and educate our different communities about the disease, it's diagnosis and encourage follow up with a specialist.”

In her role as Medical Director of the sickle cell program at MetroHealth, Dr. Bah is advocating on behalf of the patients in two ways - first as through providing them with the information needed to be their own advocates, and secondly by working with local hematologist from our 3 major hospitals in developing a citywide SCD program. With education, she is a proponent of providing patients with more than medicine, but also personal tools they can use to lessen the occurrence of SCD episodes. As an example, she said, “Patients with sickle cell are in crisis most of their lives. It is the crises that affect their quality of life, some can't complete school or hold a job because they are always sick. The different medications we have can modify the disease, and cut back on the crisis and give them the opportunity to live a near normal life.”

She also teaches her patients how to recognize triggers and how to prevent them. Some triggers are cold weather, extremely hot weather, infections and menstrual cycles. To combat these triggers, she advises her patients to dress warm, when the forecast calls for cold weather and to remember to keep hydrated in very warm weather. To avoid infections, patients have to be proactive in maintaining good health to stave off

infections. For young girls and women menstruating, Dr. Bah suggests they begin taking over the counter pain reliever a few days before their cycle begins to minimize the chance of an acute pain crisis.

Developing a citywide SCD program offers patients unified care in all three major institutions - MetroHealth, University Hospitals and Cleveland Clinic. She explained, “The same patients are seen at Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals so having a citywide sickle cell group helps improve their care.” Doctors communicating with one another and sharing their treatment plans ensures that patients receive the best care. Dr. Bah said, “The unification of care improves patients trust in the healthcare system thus improving the chances of them seeking help when in crisis.”

Developing the Sickle cell disease program is only a small portion of Dr. Bah's work at the hospital. She also specializes in breast cancer, which is the bulk of her practice, low-grade blood cancers like lymphoma, and low-grade leukemia. Working in the area of cancer and blood diseases, Dr. Bah spends 85% of her time with direct patient care and the remaining 15% is for teaching and research. With recent challenges in limited staffing, the amount of research the doctors can do has diminished, but she looks forward to that changing soon.

Dr. Bah hopes to increase the time spent in research specifically she says, “I want to see us grow in research working on treatments that will cure cancer with fewer side effects.”

A champion of MetroHealth, Dr. Bah said, “Metro is one of the strongest academic centers for young doctors in the country. Training at Metro Health prepares the physician for whatever case they see when they graduate. I would say Metro is the best place to train at because the trainees see early to late stages of every disease type. The student, residents and fellows at Metro see it all.” This level of complexity is what attracted her to MetroHealth, because she said it is similar to the training she received at LSU-Shreveport, “By the time I was finishing my training I was ready to practice anywhere and be certain I will succeed. Training at LSU was not easy, but it prepared me well for the future.”

“Taking care of cancer patients can be emotionally hard because I break bad news of cancer diagnosis to the patients and their families every day. Not only that, but some patients also end up dying from complications of their cancer despite aggressive chemotherapy.” Dr. Bah said of the experience, “I found a way to walk with my patients throughout their cancer journey and not be engulfed by the sadness of oncology. I used to pray a lot for myself, but when I started working in cancer department, I channeled my prayers towards my patients and their healing be it physical, emotional or spiritual.”

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Her work with benign hematology allows for a brighter side of medicine. Dr. Bah described a patient who spent most of the time in the hospital for management of sickle cell pain crisis and its complications, diminishing his quality of life and making it hard for him to maintain a stable job. She found fulfillment when this patient's hospitalizations decreased tremendously and he was able to work again after he was started on partial exchange transfusion protocol where he comes in every two weeks for a blood exchange where our partial exchange protocol entails taking out a unit of blood from the patients and given back a unit of donor blood. This procedure eventually decreases the amount of sickle cell in the blood. Our patient went from being in the hospital every month to now only 2-3 times a year.”

PHENOMENAL FACTS: § Ross University School of Medicine - MD Miramar, FL

§ Internship Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center- Shreveport Internal Medicine/Pediatrics

§ Residency Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center- Shreveport Internal Medicine/Pediatrics

§ Fellowship Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center- Shreveport Hematology/Oncology

§ Board Certification American Board of Internal Medicine Internal Medicine American Board of Internal Medicine Hematology

§ Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University

§ Member, Immune Oncology Program, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center

§ Clinical Expertise Breast Cancer Sickle Cell Disease

§

Awards Cleveland's Best Doctor Award 2023 Joseph Carter, MD-Compassionate and Caring Doctor Award 2023

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To balance the pain and suffering she witnesses she said, “I have learned to channel these worries to God through prayer. 2 years ago, I developed a routine of going to morning mass before work and that has helped tremendously. I bring every case with me to Mass and I leave it there at the altar. I don't get depressed with the suffering, I take it to the ONE who can heal and take care of their problems.”

Dr. Bah loves to teach and mentor younger doctors. My path to medicine has not been usual, I am here today because of mentors placed on my path. I feel I need to do same for others. I need to be a destiny helper for others.

Dr. Bah is a giving person and she said she is happiest when she is at the service of others.

She takes a yearly trip to Karuma, a rural area in Uganda, East Africa to help those suffering with SCD. Her time there is often educating the patients and their families and then medical staff on the management of sickle cell disease.

To relax, she spends time with her family exploring new things and visiting her parents in Michigan. While she won't ride roller coasters, she enjoys seeing the excitement and expressions on the faces of her nieces and nephews after a thrilling ride at any of the amusement parks.

Dr. Bah understands the importance of mental health. She said, “I have to take care of myself so I can take care of my patients and the devoted staff working with me. I always make time out for at least one or two retreats a year.

My retreat is usually a quiet time of prayer and evaluation of my life, where am I now, how can I improve, and how can I be of better service to my community.” <

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THE ART OF BUSINESS GIFTING: BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS, ONE GIFT AT A TIME

By Gloria M. Ware, CEO and Chief Rainmaker, Get The Bag LLC In the world of business, relationships are key to success.

Whether you are a corporation, a professional services firm, a small business, or a nonprofit organization, nurturing and strengthening connections with your clients, employees, partners, and stakeholders is paramount. One powerful and often underestimated way to achieve this is through the practice of business gifting also known as corporate, or relationship gifting.

What Is Business Gifting?

At its core, business or corporate gifting is the practice of giving thoughtful and meaningful gifts to clients, employees, partners, or stakeholders with the aim of building and nurturing relationships. These gifts are typically given on special occasions, such as holidays, anniversaries, or as tokens of appreciation for a job well done. The key difference between business gifting and personal gifting lies in the intention and the recipients.

Who's Giving?

Business gifting is not limited to any particular industry or size of the organization. It's a versatile practice embraced by a wide range of entities, including corporations, professional services firms, small businesses, and nonprofits.

In recent years business gifting has witnessed a notable surge in popularity, with consistent growth trends expected to continue until 2030. This evolution reflects a shift towards more socially responsible gifting practices, emphasizing gifts with positive social impacts, such as those sourced from fair trade or sustainable origins.

Additionally, gifting experiences, like spa days and travel vouchers, are gaining ground over traditional products, while a preference for high-quality, thoughtful gifts and inclusivity in gift selections is becoming increasingly prevalent. The flexibility of gift cards further enhances their appeal, illustrating the dynamic landscape of contemporary business gifting.

What are the Benefits? · Recipients: Tailoring your gifts to the preferences and needs of your recipients is paramount. Consider factors such as their interests, dietary restrictions, and cultural background. Personalization can make the gift feel more meaningful and thoughtful. · Usefulness of the Gift: Ensure that the gift serves a practical purpose or brings joy to the recipient's life. A useful gift is more likely to be appreciated and used, strengthening the positive impression it creates. · Thoughtfulness: Put careful thought into your gift selection. It's not just about the monetary value but also about the message it conveys.

Thoughtful gifts show that you genuinely care about the recipient and their relationship with your organization.

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Values Alignment: Choose gifts that align with your organization's values and the values of the recipient. This alignment reinforces your brand identity and demonstrates shared principles.

Budget: Setting a realistic budget is essential.

Consider all associated costs, including shipping and sales taxes, to avoid unexpected expenses. A well-managed budget ensures that your gifting program remains sustainable.

Social Impact: Consider gifts that have a positive social impact or are environmentally friendly. Many recipients appreciate gifts that align with social responsibility and sustainability.

It reflects positively on your organization's values and commitment to making a difference.

Business Gifting Dos Have a Budget A well-defined budget is crucial to prevent overspending.

It should cover not only the cost of the gifts but also additional expenses like shipping and taxes. A budget keeps your gifting program financially responsible.

Demonstrate Gratitude Remember that the primary purpose of gifting is to express gratitude and appreciation. Your gift should convey a heartfelt "thank you" to the recipient, emphasizing the value they bring to your organization.

Consider Long-term Benefits Beyond the immediate impact, think about the long-term benefits of your gifting efforts. Increased engagement, loyalty, and enhanced brand value can result from thoughtful and strategic gifting.

Prioritize Quality and Uniqueness Invest in high-quality, unique gifts that leave a lasting impression. Quality reflects positively on your organization's standards, and uniqueness makes your gift stand out.

Inclusive Snacks If offering food items, consider inclusivity by including options for various dietary preferences, such as glutenfree or vegan choices. It ensures that all recipients can enjoy the gift.

Gift Vouchers Gift vouchers or cards provide recipients with the flexibility to choose what suits them best. They are a practical choice, especially when you're time strapped or are unsure of individual preferences Gifting Experiences Experiences can create cherished memories and strengthen relationships. Consider gifting experiences like spa days, adventure activities, or dining at a fine restaurant.

Focus on the Recipient Experience Pay attention to the entire recipient experience, from the moment they receive the gift to the unboxing process. Eco-friendly packaging and thoughtful presentation enhance the overall impact of the gift.

Be Mindful of Traditions Respect the cultural and religious traditions of your recipients. Not everyone celebrates the same holidays, so consider inclusive messaging and timing that accommodates diverse customs.

Social Impact Consider the social impact of your gifting decisions.

Supporting causes that align with your organization's values can resonate positively with recipients and the broader community.

Environmentally Friendly Choose sustainable and eco-friendly gifts whenever possible. Eco-conscious recipients appreciate gifts that minimize their environmental footprint.

Thoughtful Gift Messages Include a heartfelt message with your gift to convey your appreciation and the purpose behind the gift. A wellcrafted message adds a personal touch.

Use Gifting Services Consider working with a company that specializes in gifting services. This can help reduce stress on your staff during busy gifting seasons and ensure a smooth and efficient process.

Consult Your Accountant Discuss potential tax benefits or expenses related to gifting with your accountant. Proper financial planning can optimize the tax advantages of your gifting program.

Support Small Businesses and Artists Choose gifts from small businesses and independent artists to support local communities and promote creativity. It's a way to give back while gifting.

Consider New Year's Gifting Shifting the focus from Christmas to New Year's gifting can accommodate diverse preferences and extend the impact of your gifting efforts beyond the holiday season.

Business Gifting Don'ts Gift Cheap, Poor-Quality Items Avoid presenting gifts that are of low quality or appear as afterthoughts. Low-quality items can convey a lack of

genuine appreciation and may not be well-received. Invest in gifts that reflect the value you place on the recipient and your relationship.

Overdo Company Branding While it's acceptable to include some branded company products, be cautious not to overwhelm the gift with excessive branding. Overly branded gifts can come across as self-promotional and diminish the personal touch of the gesture. Strive for a balance that emphasizes the recipient rather than the organization.

Include Sales Messaging Resist the temptation to include any form of sales messaging or references to expectations for future sales, loyalty, or performance. Gifts should be about expressing gratitude and appreciation, not about promoting your organization's commercial interests. Keep the focus on building and nurturing relationships through thoughtful gestures.

Ready to Build Those Relationships?

While we think of gifting primarily during the holidays, business gifting is appreciated throughout the year. Explore our holiday gifting guide to get some ideas or work with a gifting company to streamline the experience, save time, money, and staff stress.

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He will go nuts over this snack!

Available in Irish Stout, Rum and Whiskey, these all-naturally flavored peanuts round out this three-nut sampler that's sure to turn even the most indifferent average Joe into a serious nuthead! These addicting snacks taste like real booze but don't contain alchohol. The 3-pack retails for $14.99 at https://dmsnacks.com/collections/all/ products/beer-and-bourbon-flavoredpeanuts-3-pack

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS!

Sugar Plum Chocolate Covered Cheer Set For the Chocolate Lover Comes in a variety of 3 packs, or you can select 3 of the same. Each tube comes with10 chocolate-covered sandwich cookies, 10 chocolate-covered graham crackers, or 10 chocolate-covered pretzels. The set retails for $65 at https://www.sugar-plum.com/

The "Cinderella" mini princess throne chair is absolutely stunning and a precious little sight! Make a statement with this chair at children's birthday parties, baby showers, and much more! This chair is suitable for children ages 2-8 and is handcrafted from mahogany wood and stain-resistant marine-grade vinyl. Also features crystal tufting and a nail head trimming. Retails for $195 at thronekingdom.com

Medical Scrubs Collection Infinity Footwear These chic shoes have a breathable, flexible knit upper for allday comfort, especially if you're prone to swollen feet.

Underneath, an ultra-cushiony midsole with airbag adds even more comfort. Also features an oil- and slip-resistant sole and a removable, shock absorbing latex-free polyurethane insole with arch support and heel cupping for stability and allday comfort. The interior lining and insole are also treated with Certainty® antimicrobial technology to inhibit the growth of microbes that cause odor. Retails for $67.96 at https://medicalscrubscollection.com/infinity-footwear-athleticfootwear-bolt

Formulated and manufactured in Brazil, Pure Brazilian offers the best hair smoothing system on the market.

These hair essentials have a special formulation of minimal chemicals to give maximum results. Hair color pops, as cuticles are sealed with moisture. Their products also reduce blow-dry and styling time, protects against heat damage from styling, and prevents split ends and breakage, which promotes growth. Visit – https://purebrazilian.com or their Amazon store.

Freshen up his car with the minimalistic and all-natural PURGGO car air ecopurifier & freshener! It's made with pure and sustainable natural bamboo charcoal, which absorbs & eliminates odor instead of masking it. Fragrance- & allergen-free, the PURGGO is all-natural, non-toxic, and 100% asthma and allergy friendly.

PURGGO perfectly combines nature, science, and love. All the product contains is pure all-natural moso bamboo charcoal, one of the most renewable natural resources in the world and Mother Nature's purifier, which has been carbonized and activated at 1110°F - 1300°F (600°C - 700°C). Bamboo charcoal is a tried and tested air cleanser that's been used in Asian countries for thousands of years. On top of this, it lasts for 365+ days (longer lasting than any product available worldwide) and works continuously in the background! Retails for $23.99 on Amazon.

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Echoes of the Past: Giving Circles Carry Forward a Tradition of Community Supported Impact Giving Circles, a collaborative form of philanthropy, have a rich history deeply rooted in various communities, particularly among African Americans. These groups, born out of mutual aid societies of the 18th and 19th century, formed to pool resources for a common cause, have long been a cornerstone in supporting and uplifting African American communities. The roots of Giving Circles are global and can be traced back centuries to many cultures, with a significant evolution and formalization occurring in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Today, Giving Circles have evolved and expanded, continuing to play a significant role in philanthropy. They're not just about pooling money but also sharing knowledge and experiences to make informed decisions about giving. This model of collective giving empowers individuals, especially women, to combine their resources and amplify their impact on causes they care about.

Recent trends indicate a substantial growth in the number of Giving Circles. In the United States alone, there are estimated to be over 1,600 circles, involving more than 150,000 people and donating hundreds of millions of dollars. A notable trend is the increasing diversity within these circles, with a rise in groups focused on specific communities or issues, such as women's rights, environmental concerns, and social justice. Our Hope Our Future is a Clevelandbased Giving Circle which has a focus on s u p p o r t i n g B l a c k- l e d , B l a c k- s e r v i n g organizations working in either education, social justice, environment, and health and human services.

Data also shows that Giving Circles are particularly appealing to younger donors and those seeking a more engaged, hands-on approach to philanthropy. They offer a unique opportunity to learn about philanthropy and social issues, engage in community, and make a tangible impact. Additionally, the flexibility and democratic nature of Giving Circles make them accessible and appealing to a broad range of people, regardless of their financial capacity.

Leading Ladies www.leadingladiesempowerment.org, Sabrina Humpries, Founder and Executive Director

North Collinwood Thundercats www.nctthundercats.com, led by Keyana Thomas and Daina White

Giving Circles like Our Hope Our Future represent a powerful and increasingly popular tool in modern philanthropy. They embody a collective spirit and commitment to making a difference, with a model that is adaptable, inclusive, and effective. Their growth and evolution continue to shape the landscape of philanthropy, highlighting the strength found in unity and shared purpose.

To learn more about becoming a member of Our Hope Our Future Giving Circle, contact Gloria Ware at: gmarie.ware@gmail.com

2023 Our Hope Our Future grantees awarded $1500 each in partnership with The United Black Fund (www.unitedblackfund.org and 3rdSpace Action Lab (www.3rdspaceactionlab.co)

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Sweet and Savory Ways to Shake Up Holiday Celebrations (FAMILY FEATURES) 'Tis the season for sweet and savory favorites – from the mouthwatering desserts you crave each year to starters and snacks that hold over hungry guests. Elevate your holiday entertaining with the right combination of appetizers, main courses, sides, sweets and beyond that start with the same seasonal staple: pecans.

As a versatile nut that can be used throughout the holidays, pecans have you covered so you can cook and enjoy a myriad of dishes, add festive flair to decor, or provide a nutritious snack in the midst of season-long indulgences. This year, pick up an extra bag of pecans to create nutritious, delicious dishes to enjoy on-the-go or serve to guests.

To help celebrate the holiday season, the American Pecan Promotion Board introduced a digital Pe-Calendar to highlight the many ways pecans can be enjoyed in and beyond a traditional pie.

From Dec. 7-18, the interactive calendar will unveil tasty recipes for pecan fans to enjoy, along with fun games that can enter you in to win exciting prizes each day. From delicious Baked Brie with Pecans and Cranberry Orange Chutney to nutritious Pecan Snack Mix with Cranberries and Chocolate, along with prizes, the calendar provides an ultimate way to shell-ebrate with the musthave holiday nut.

To sign up for daily email reminders to open a new door for chances to win nutty prizes, or to find additional holiday recipes, visit EatPecans.com.

Baked Brie with Pecans and Cranberry Orange Chutney Recipe courtesy of the American Pecan Promotion Board Cook time: 24 minutes Servings: 8 1 bag (12 ounces) fresh cranberries 1/2 cup maple syrup, plus 1 teaspoon for garnish, divided 1/2 cup water 1 orange, zest and juice only 1 teaspoon freshly chopped thyme, plus additional for garnish, divided 1 teaspoon freshly chopped rosemary 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional) 1 round brie (13.4 ounces) 1/2 cup roasted pecan pieces crackers toasted bread apple slices Preheat oven to 350 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.

In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring cranberries (reserving some for garnish), 1/2 cup maple syrup and water to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until cranberries pop and mixture thickens, 8-10 minutes.

Remove cranberry mixture from heat and stir in orange zest, orange juice, 1 teaspoon thyme, rosemary and bourbon, if desired.

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Place brie on parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 5-7 minutes, or until inside of cheese softens while outside remains intact.

Transfer brie to serving platter and top with chutney and toasted pecans. Drizzle remaining maple syrup over brie and garnish with remaining fresh thyme and reserved cranberries. Serve with crackers, toasted bread and apple slices.

Pecan Snack Mix with Cranberries and Chocolate Recipe courtesy of Jess Larson and the American Pecan Promotion Board Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes, plus 10 minutes cooling time 1 1 1/2 2 1 1 1/2 1/2 1/4 1/2 1/2

cup pecan halves cup rice squares cereal (wheat or cinnamon) cup pretzels tablespoons unsalted butter tablespoon brown sugar tablespoons pure maple syrup teaspoon kosher salt teaspoon ground nutmeg cup dried cranberries cup dark chocolate chips

In large, microwave-safe bowl, add pecans, rice squares cereal and pretzels. In small, microwave-safe bowl, add butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, salt and nutmeg. Microwave butter mixture 1-2 minutes until melted then pour over dry mix. Toss well to combine.

Microwave snack mix in 45-second intervals, about 4-5 intervals total, until mix is fragrant, golden and toasty.

Cool mix completely then stir in cranberries and dark chocolate chips.

6 Holiday Gifts for Teens and Young Adults They'll Actually Like

O

ne of the best parts of the holidays is being together with those you love, and for many families that time together involves the exchanging of gifts among loved ones young and old. Finding the right gift for everyone can be a challenge, especially if teenagers and young adults are on your shopping list.

It seems like social media feeds are constantly filled with a new tech item, style, pastime or trend, making it more challenging to pick out gifts for the young ones on gift lists.

This year, consider some on-trend gift ideas – like Jelly Belly Jelly Beans – to show appreciation for the Gen-Zers in your life with presents and stocking stuffers that can win them over.

New in Tech As one of the most popular categories of gifts for teens and one that's always evolving, deciding which devices and gadgets to gift can be hard. Consider your loved ones' hobbies and interests to make the job easier; for example, if they're music lovers or podcast fanatics, wireless earbuds or headphones are a perfect option. If social butterflies are on your shopping list, portable phone chargers and smartphone accessories like a pop-out phone grip can make sure they're one step ahead of their next photo or social post.

For Boba and Candy Lovers Many Gen-Zers love a good cup of bubble tea or boba swag, so feed their cravings with an option like Jelly Belly Boba Milk Tea jelly beans. With gift boxes, snack bags and more, these delicious treats made for candy lovers provide a perfect balance of tea, tapioca and sweetness in five true-to-life milk tea flavors: Mango, Taro, Matcha, Strawberry and Thai Milk Tea jelly beans. Find these treats at JellyBelly.com where you can purchase online or locate a store near you.

Cozy Comforts For teens heading to college or young adults venturing out on their own, consider gifting items to spruce up their new

spaces. You can give them a helping hand to start their next chapter with fun decor items like throw pillows and blankets or add life to their new homes with stylish wall art or flower subscriptions. For simple reminders of home, consider candles with their favorite scents or aromatherapy diffusers and essential oils to add a touch of calm to the chaos of heading out on their own.

Play to Their Hobbies Help them embrace their talents and favorite activities whether it's art, reading, cooking, gaming, playing sports or mastering instruments. New paint kits and supplies can help young Picasso's take their art to the next level while a new appliance or cookbook can provide an upgrade for avid home chefs.

The Gift of Music Whether they have a favorite band or are up-and-coming musicians themselves (or both), give the gift of music with fun ways to enjoy their favorite songs. Record players and vinyl records are making a major comeback while portable speakers allow music lovers to take their favorite sounds wherever they go. A subscription to a streaming service can be perfect for casual listeners or, if you're looking to splurge, consider concert tickets.

Outdoor Adventures From jogging a r o u n d t h e neighborhood to exploring nearby parks and trails, outdoor enthusiasts can never have e n o u g h g e a r.

Runners are always searching for the latest sneaker launch or fitness tracker to keep on pace with their goals while more casual enjoyers of the outdoors may love a new water bottle, picnic blanket or beach bag. www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 29

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