Vital Guidance October Edition

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Benefiting Kids In Foster Care

US

Carnell

Erika

ADVISORY

US

MAILING ADDRESS

P.O. Box 341064 Tampa, FL 33694-1064

Freddie Solomon, a standout quarterback from the University of Tampa, played three seasons with the Miami Dolphins before joining the San Francisco 49ers, where he won two Super Bowls during his 11-year NFL career as a wide receiver. After retiring, the Sumter, SC native, known as "Fabulous Freddie," dedicated 12 years to mentoring youth in Hillsborough County, working with the Sheriff’s department to teach life lessons through football. His legacy continues with the Freddie Solomon Community Spirit Award, honoring collegiate

ACL Tears No Longer Shatter Athletic Dreams

Contact sports like football, hockey, soccer, and rugby are often labeled as dangerous due to the high risk of injuries, particularly to the head and knees. ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries are among the most common and feared by athletes. Studies show that nearly 20% of professional football players who suffer an ACL injury risk reinjuring the same knee after recovery. This is why professional athletes need to take extreme precautions when returning from such injuries.

However, despite these risks, many athletes have overcome ACL injuries and successfully returned to the field. Notable examples include Michael Penix Jr. and Rhys Hoskins, who serve as inspirations for young athletes striving for comebacks after significant setbacks.

What Is an ACL Injury?

The ACL is a crucial part of the knee that stabilizes joint movement. An ACL tear can result in severe pain and immobilize an athlete for months. Interestingly, female athletes are statistically more likely to suffer ACL tears than their male counterparts.

Common causes of ACL injuries include:

- Twisting or awkwardly bending the knee

- Failing to warm up properly

- Poor biomechanics during jumps & landings

ACL Injuries Aren’t Career Enders

There’s a prevailing myth in sports that an ACL tear ends an athlete’s career, especially for young players. However, history is filled with athletes who have returned stronger

after such injuries. Legends like Adrian Peterson and Tom Brady have set the standard, and more recent examples like Michael Penix Jr. and Rhys Hoskins prove that the right recovery plan can lead to great comebacks.

Michael Penix Jr.

Penix, a star quarterback, endured two ACL tears in his right knee first in 2018 and again just two years later. Despite these setbacks, Penix's commitment to recovery saw him return to the field with astonishing results, throwing 67 touchdowns and leading his team to a College Football Playoff appearance for a shot at the national title.

Rhys Hoskins

As the first baseman for the Phillies, Hoskins tore his ACL in March 2023, forcing him to sit out the season. After undergoing surgery and completing a rigorous rehab program, Hoskins returned in 2024, securing a $34 million

National Football League

contract with the Milwaukee Brewers as their starting first baseman.

Recovery Tips from ACL Injuries

For young athletes recovering from ACL injuries, here are some key recommendations:

- Create a Healthy Sports Routine: Always prepare adequately for training and wear the proper protective gear.

- Don’t Rush Recovery: Give your knee the time it needs to heal properly, consulting a specialized orthopedist when necessary.

- Nine-Month Healing Time: Experts recommend at least nine months of recovery before returning to competitive sports.

- Protect Your Healthy Knee: Premature returns to the field can jeopardize your other knee as well.

- Consider Off-Seasons: Allowing for additional rest and rehabilitation, as seen with athletes like Penix and Hoskins, can help achieve full recovery.

Lessons for Non-Athletes

While ACL injuries are primarily associated with athletes, other injuries like slip-and-falls are increasingly common. Last year’s incident

involving Damar Hamlin’s heart attack during a game serves as a reminder that professional athletes, like all of us, deserve timely and quality healthcare. Ensuring that you take care of your body, whether on the field or off, is essential to long-term health and performance.

Conclusion

The stories of Michael Penix Jr. and Rhys Hoskins remind us that recovery from ACL injuries is possible, with the right mindset and medical support. In the words of sports medicine surgeon Stephen Fealy, “the risk of non-contact ACL injury can be dramatically reduced through neuromuscular training”— emphasizing the importance of proper movement and conditioning strategies during recovery​(Canes Warning).

Taking care of your physical health should always be a top priority, whether you're an athlete or not.

LE NOW

Camaraderie: The Way To Success

Building team camaraderie at the office can significantly enhance career success by fostering a supportive, collaborative work environment. Here’s how strong team camaraderie can boost your professional growth:

1. Improved Collaboration and Productivity

When team members trust and respect one another, they communicate more openly and collaborate effectively. This leads to better problem-solving, as individuals feel comfortable sharing ideas and seeking input from others. Research shows that teams with high camaraderie experience increased productivity because they leverage collective skills and knowledge more efficiently​ (Miami Hurricane).

2. Enhanced Leadership and Influence

Developing strong relationships with colleagues enhances your ability to lead and influence. People are more likely to support leaders they trust and respect. Building camaraderie shows that you value others’ input and are committed to team success, making you a more approachable and respected leader. Leaders who prioritize team bonding also help foster a positive work environment, which can improve morale and loyalty.

3. Increased Job Satisfaction and Well-Being

Team camaraderie can make work more enjoyable, reducing stress and increasing job satisfaction. When you feel supported by your peers, you’re more likely to be motivated and

engaged. A positive work atmosphere also fosters emotional well-being, which can help prevent burnout and increase your overall career longevity.

4. Opportunities for Networking & Career Growth

Good relationships within your team can extend to a broader professional network. Team members often recommend and advocate for colleagues they enjoy working with, creating opportunities for mentorship, promotions, or referrals. Strong camaraderie can also open doors to cross-departmental projects, further expanding your network and visibility within an organization.

5. Fostering Innovation

When team camaraderie is strong, members feel safe taking risks and suggesting innovative ideas. In a collaborative environment, employees are more willing to experiment, think creatively, and innovate without fear of criticism or failure. This can lead to the development of new processes, products, or

services that can drive both personal and organizational success.

6. Conflict Resolution and Adaptability

Teams with strong camaraderie are better equipped to handle conflicts constructively. When disagreements arise, teammates are more likely to approach one another with respect, working towards a solution rather than letting conflicts escalate. This kind of emotional intelligence and conflict management is essential for career success, particularly in leadership roles.

Conclusion

By investing in relationships and fostering camaraderie within your team, you not only improve the work environment but also open up paths to career success. Collaboration, leadership, job satisfaction, and networking opportunities all thrive in environments where camaraderie is prioritized, ultimately benefiting both the individual and the organization.

College football, or any sport, would not excite millions of people every year if it wasn't for the fans. Yet, when deciding the best college football player in the nation, the fans were left out of the selection process until we launched our award in 2010.

The Premier Player of College Football Trophy is an award presented to the athlete the fans vote as the best player in NCAA college football. The Premier Players Sports Foundation releases a poll at the beginning of the college football season with 20 of the best players for fans to follow. The foundation will add up to five more great-performing players to the poll in mid-October while deleting nonperformers from the poll. Fans then have until the last conference championship game to cast their vote for deciding The Premier Player of College Football.

"Fans are such a big part of the games, so we wanted to come up with an award that they can be a big part of, too," said Carnell Moore, founder of Premier Players and the Premier Players Sports Foundation. "All the athletes in our polls are Premier Players, but we let the fans decide who gets the 19-lb trophy."

The foundation also operates fan polls for NCAA baseball, basketball (M & W), hockey (M & W), and softball. There is also a poll for fans to select The Premier Player of Pro Football.

The sports foundation uses the polls as fundraisers to help orphaned, foster, special needs, and at-risk youth participate in community sports leagues via sponsorships and proper equipment. Through its network of athletes, the foundation will also help kids and players with life management and business skills to better serve communities.

Now, listed in alphabetical order, are our Top 20 candidates for the 2024 Premier Player of College Football Award – Go Vote!

YOU DECIDE

The 2024 Premier Player of College Football

(Click Here To Vote)

Carlson Beck, QB, Georgia Bulldogs

Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri Tigers

Deion Burks, WR, Oklahoma Sooners

Abdul Carter, DE, Penn State Nittany Lions

Barrett Carter, LB, Clemson Tigers

Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas Longhorns

Dillion Gabriel, QB, Oregon Ducks

Ashton Gillotte, DL, Louisville Cardinals

Ollie Gordon II, RB, Oklahoma State Cowboys

Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado Buffaloes

Will Johnson, DB, Michigan Wolverines

Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State Buckeyes

Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama Crimson Tide

Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Walter Nolen, DL, Mississippi Rebels

Patrick Payton, DL, Florida State Seminoles

James Pearce Jr., Edge Rusher, Tennessee Volunteers

Harold Perkins Jr., LB, LSU Tigers

Cameron Rising, QB, Utah Utes

Cam Ward, QB, Miami Hurricanes

Patek Philippe World Time with date, ref. 5330G-001

Launched as a limited edition at the Patek Philippe grand exhibition “Watch Art” held in Tokyo, Reference 5330 enters the manufacture’s regular collection. It is distinguished by a patented world first: a date display synchronized with local time; that is, the time in the time zone selected at the 12 o’clock position on the city disk and indicated by the center hands.

How You Can Make A Big Impact In Communities

Successful businesspeople hold a unique position in society. With their platform, influence, and financial resources, they have the power to make a profound impact on communities. Here are some effective ways they can do so:

1. Philanthropy and Charitable Giving

One of the most common ways business leaders contribute is through direct financial support for social causes. Donations to healthcare, education, poverty alleviation, and environmental initiatives can transform communities. Examples include:

• Bill Gates, through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has donated billions to combat global health challenges, education reform, and poverty reduction. Businesspeople can

and poverty reduction. Businesspeople can also establish scholarships or fund community centers, contributing to long-term growth.

2. Investing in Education & Skills Development

Education is a powerful tool for societal change. By investing in educational programs, mentorship, and vocational training, business leaders can equip individuals with the skills they need to succeed.

• LeBron James’ I PROMISE School in Akron, Ohio, provides education and mentorship for at-risk children. Similarly, businesses can offer internships, mentorships, or sponsor STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) programs in underfunded areas.

3. Support Local Businesses & Entrepreneurs

By investing in local startups and small businesses, successful businesspeople can help stimulate economic growth in their communities. Providing grants, mentorship, or affordable loans to small business owners empowers local entrepreneurs.

• Howard Schultz of Starbucks supported local job creation and economic revitalization through Starbucks' Community Stores, which hire locally and reinvest a portion of their profits back into neighborhood improvement projects.

4. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Programs

Companies run by successful business leaders can develop CSR programs that address environmental sustainability, employee wellbeing, and community service. Encouraging employees to volunteer and partnering with nonprofit organizations can further a business’s community impact.

• Marc Benioff’s 1-1-1 model at Salesforce, which allocates 1% of equity, 1% of product, and 1% of employee time to charitable causes, has set a standard for integrating CSR into corporate culture.

5. Advocating for Policy Change

Business leaders can use their influence to advocate for changes in policy that benefit communities, such as advancing education, healthcare access, and economic equality.

• Businesspeople like Elon Musk have supported efforts related to renewable energy, climate action, and space exploration, pushing for technological advancements that benefit both local and global communities.

6. Disaster Relief and Crisis Response

Businesspeople can mobilize resources quickly in times of crisis, providing emergency

relief or funding recovery efforts after natural disasters or economic disruptions.

• After Hurricane Harvey, J.J. Watt raised over $37 million for disaster relief efforts in Houston, demonstrating how businesspeople and influencers can mobilize funds quickly in emergencies.

7. Creating Jobs and Economic Opportunities

By establishing companies that provide fair wages and growth opportunities, business leaders can directly contribute to reducing unemployment and poverty in their communities. Prioritizing diversity and inclusion in hiring practices can also make a significant impact.

• Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, created jobs while also supporting female entrepreneurs through her foundation. Investing in local economies not only creates jobs but also promotes long-term stability.

Conclusion

Successful businesspeople can leverage their resources, influence, and expertise to make lasting contributions to their communities. Whether through philanthropy, advocacy, education, or direct investment, their impact extends far beyond the boardroom, helping build a better future for those in need.

LV Trainer Sneaker 1AD9XA

Protect Your Most Valuable Asset -

YOUR ABILITY TO EARN

When it comes to protecting what’s important, most of us think about insuring our car, home, and valuables. But have you considered insuring your most important asset of all – your ability to earn a living?

Disability insurance is an essential, yet often overlooked, form of protection that ensures your income is safe if an unexpected medical

event prevents you from working for an extended period.

Many people believe they’re covered through their employer’s disability insurance plan or Social Security benefits. However, these options may not provide sufficient coverage. According to the Social Security Administration at least one in four 20-year-

-olds will experience a disability before they reach age 67. These disabilities can last from a few months to several years, and nearly 90% of long-term disability claims are because of illnesses, rather than accidents. This means people typically aren’t covered by workers’ compensation insurance.

Even if an employer offers disability insurance, the coverage may be limited. Relying solely on Social Security is also risky. In 2022, only one in three applicants for Social Security disability benefits were approved, according to USA Facts. Given these statistics, it's clear that many working Americans need to consider a personal disability insurance policy to fill that gap.

If you’re certain a medical event will never happen to you, you may not need disability insurance. But if there’s even a slight chance it could, having this insurance can provide financial stability when you need it most. Imagine how much less stressful a serious illness or injury would be if you knew your income was protected.

It’s easy, and often affordable, to get the coverage you need. Call Vital Guidance today at 813-8333495 to explore your options and learn how you can safeguard your financial future. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your paycheck and your livelihood.

Port Strike Affects, Preparation

A port strike in the U.S. can have devastating economic and logistical impacts, rippling through multiple industries and eventually reaching consumers. U.S. ports handle about 90% of the nation’s imports and exports by volume, making them vital for the global supply chain. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant damages caused by a strike:

1. Disruption of Supply Chains

A port strike brings cargo shipments to a halt, delaying the movement of essential goods like food, electronics, automobiles, and medical supplies. During the 2014-2015 West Coast port strike, delays caused shortages of everything from retail goods to car parts, slowing down production lines and leaving shelves empty. The bottleneck effect often spreads across the country, as businesses are forced to wait weeks or even months for supplies​ (Miami Hurricane).

2. Economic Loss

When ports shut down, industries reliant on trade lose millions of dollars per day. For example, the 2015 West Coast port strike was estimated to cost the U.S. economy up to $2 billion per day, according to the National Retail Federation. Lost productivity, idle manufacturing plants, and disrupted agriculture exports lead to widespread economic damage​ (Canes Warning). Additionally, companies often pass these extra costs onto consumers, leading to higher prices for everyday goods.

3. Inflation and Higher Consumer Prices

When companies face delays and increased shipping costs, these expenses are typically passed on to consumers in the form of price hikes. A strike that lasts several weeks can result in noticeable inflation for products that are imported or reliant on imported

components. Electronics, clothing, and certain foods may become more expensive because of increased transportation costs.

4. Product Shortages

Prolonged strikes can create product shortages, especially for items that rely on just-in-time delivery systems. Items like electronics, appliances, and even some foods may see supply dwindling on shelves as cargo sits idle at ports. This was seen during past port disruptions, where consumer goods and holiday shipments were severely delayed, creating scarcity and driving up demand.

How Consumers Can Prepare for a Port Strike

Since port strikes affect product availability and prices, consumers can take steps to minimize the impact on their daily lives. Here’s how:

1. Stock Up on Essential Goods

One of the most practical steps consumers can take is to build a small stockpile of essential goods, particularly non-perishable items. Products like canned food, household supplies, and hygiene products may become harder to find during a strike. Planning ahead and buying in bulk can help avoid running out of essentials during a disruption.

2. Buy Local

Since international trade is most affected by port strikes, consider shifting your purchases to locally produced goods. Buying from local farmers, manufacturers, and small businesses reduces reliance on imports and ensures that you’ll have access to needed products even when port operations slow down.

3. Shop Early for Seasonal Items

During a port strike, imported goods like

holiday decorations, electronics, and toys may be delayed or more expensive. To avoid shortages, consumers should shop for seasonal or high-demand items well in advance.

4. Monitor News and Shipping Alerts

Staying informed about port labor disputes and strikes can help consumers anticipate shortages. Many industries issue warnings when strikes are imminent, giving shoppers the chance to prepare..

5. Budget for Price Increases

In times of supply chain disruption, price inflation can be inevitable. It’s a good idea to budget for potential price increases, particularly for imported goods like electronics, furniture, or automobiles. Adjusting your budget to account for higher costs will help mitigate the financial strain caused by a strike.

6. Consider Alternatives

If an item becomes unavailable or prices surge, consider alternatives. This might mean choosing generic brands, substituting fresh for frozen foods, or delaying a large purchase like a car or appliance until the supply chain stabilizes. Flexibility is key when dealing with shortages or inflated prices.

Conclusion

Port strikes can disrupt the economy, inflate prices, and lead to product shortages, impacting consumers across the U.S. However, by planning ahead, stocking up on essentials, supporting local businesses, and monitoring the news, consumers can reduce the effects of these disruptions. Preparation is essential, especially in times of uncertainty, ensuring that you’re ready for any potential supply chain hiccups.

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