Women's Journal - Winter 2014-2015

WASHINGTON

A LifeStyle Magazine

FREE - TAKE ONE Winter 2014 - 2015

journal Dr. Renee Bovelle, MD

“Your Best Vision is Our

Focus”

Season’s Greetings & Happy New Year!

WJ HEALTH & WELLNESS

Preventing Breast Cancer

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t its current rate breast cancer is growing rapidly, but it doesn’t need to. According to Dr. Mercola, “Cancer is a manmade disease that did not exist before poor diet and pollution appeared.” Breast cancer is caused by xenoestrogens, poor nutrition, environmental pollution, stressful negative emotions, synthetic hormone replacement therapies, birth control pills, chronic inflammation and acidity in the body, which leads to toxicity and the perfect breading ground for viruses. So now that we know what causes cancer, we know how to prevent it.

We are led to believe that mammograms detect breast cancer but the opposite is true. Instead, mammograms have a first-time false positive rate of six percent and increase the risk for developing breast cancer through potentially spreading or metastasizing an existing growth. The best method for breast cancer prevention is breast thermography (infrared), which will detect cancer up to ten years earlier than mammography or physical exam without ionizing radiation or mechanical pressure. Further, needle biopsies should also be prevented because they may accidently cause malignant cells to break away from the tumor, increasing the spread of cancer by fifty percent compared to patients receiving lumpectomies. An alternative way to detect breast cancer can be done by medical detective dogs through a person’s breath with sensitivity of 0.88 and specificity of 0.98. Cancer appears in the breath very rapidly and these dogs are best at detecting early cancers.

Breast cancer has the potential to go away on its own a fair amount of the time without intervention when the body turns towards a healthy environment. Nutrition is a key factor in preventing cancer. It is vital to eat only organic and eliminate the major factors that lead to chronic inflammation such as alcohol, coffee, processed food, food additives, a high carbohydrate diet, charred meat, unfermented soy products, dairy and refined sugar, which allow cancer cells to thrive.

Studies have shown the direct correlation between body hydration and toxicity. The more hydrated the body becomes the less toxins it will allow, and vice versa. Hydrate with three to four liters of natural spring water and Sole water therapy per day. Avoid consuming water with chlorine and fluoride, which is running rapidly in tap water nowadays.

Dehydration causes the body to become acidic which is perfect for disease. Water flushes the body of toxins. Aside from water intake, drink a quart of organic green vegetable juice every day.

Optimize your vitamin D levels with supplementation or low-level sun exposure. Maintain a healthy body weight and do regular physical exercise to keep all parts of the body functioning properly. Avoid electromagnetic fields, wearing underwire bras and using antiperspirant containing heavy metals like aluminum. Detox periodically especially the liver, the kidneys and colon. Get the lymphatic system moving by skin brushing daily and boost your immune system through IV therapies. With these defenses under your belt, breast cancer doesn’t stand a chance.

Snejana Sharkar, RDN, FNP, ACNP Dr. Isabel Sharkar, ND

Located at the Waterfront Center

1010 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite #660 Washington, DC 20007 (t) 202.298.9131 / (f) 202.298.5512 drsharkar@indigohealthclinic.com

INDIGO INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CLINIC A Concierge Medical Practice

IIHC specializes in balancing the immune system, which is integral to all matters pertaining to health and disease. Treatments are targeted to address both the root cause of the disease and the immune dysfunction that allows the disease to persist. Correcting this dysfunction and immune deficiency is vital to successful treatment therapies. A well-balanced and fully functioning immune system is paramount in keeping diseases at bay.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Massage Envy Spa

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ake your neighborhood Massage Envy Spa part of your wellness plan.

So what does massage have to do with your health? Long-term effects of regular massage can include increased circulation, improved flexibility, reduced blood pressure, muscle pain relief, and a stronger immune system. Add Murad® Healthy Skin facials to your wellness routine and you’ll enjoy healthy, more youthful-looking skin too. Schedule an appointment today and start yourself on the road to wellness at a Massage Envy Spa near you.

Our spa provides a full suite of Massage Envy services including: • Murad® Healthy Skin Facials • Sugar Foot Scrub Therapy • Aromatherapy • Deep Muscle Therapy • Hot Stone Envy Massage • Sports Massage • Swedish Massage • Reflexology • Deep Tissue Massage • Cranial Sacral Massage • Trigger Point Massage • Prenatal Massage Massage therapy is beneficial to your body and your mind. It can also help to prevent illness, as well as improve your mood and job performance, which will keep you active throughout the year!

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WJ HEALTH & WELLNESS

Vernise L. Burs PT, CSCI

Our programs are tailored to meet the needs of each patient

2530 N. Charles Street Suite 102 Baltimore MD 21218

(410)889-7872

OUR MISSION: To prevent and treat patient injuries using traditional physical therapy in conjunction with manual therapy techniques while delivering prompt and courteous service. At the same time as treating all patients with personalized care and respect we promote the long-term health and welfare of those patients through: Healthy Lifestyle Changes Patient Health Education Home Exercise Programs On-site Post-Rehab and Beginner Fitness Programs On-site Wellness Center

Burn 100 Calories - under 30 Minutes Vernise L. Burs PT, CSCI

tion (CDC) in 2011, there was 128,932 stroke related deaths; 596,577 heart related deaths and 576,691 cancer related dates.

Get to know your BMI. Body mass index (BMI) is a mathematical equation that is based upon your weight and height; it is used to determine your health status. A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is normal weight, 25 to 29.9 is over-weight, 30 to 34.9 is mild obesity, 35 to 39.9 is moderate obesity and 40 or greater is severe obesity. What is your BMI? We can minimize our risk for various medical conditions by getting up out of our seats to move! DID YOU KNOW 20 MINUTES OF BRISK WALKING BURNS 100 CALORIES AND 30 MINUTES BURNS 150 CALORIES? Below are 15 easy ways to burn 100 calories in less than 30 minutes!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Photo Source: www.woman.thenest.com

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et’s get up and be active because being inactive leads to being over-weight and obesity. Obesity is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, cancer, stroke, heart disease and even death. According to the Center for Disease Control and Preven4

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Brisk walking: 20 minutes Biking: 23 minutes casual cycling Cardio dance class: 15 minutes Elliptical: 8 minutes Squats: Perform 20 repetitions March/Jog in place: 1 minute Push-ups: 10 repetitions Pilates: 24 minutes Rowing machine: 13 minutes Running stairs: 6 minutes Swimming: 15 minutes moderate intensity Walking stairs: 11 minutes Water aerobics: 23 minutes Yoga: 20 minutes Zumba: 11 minutes

Don’t Be A Statistic! GET UP AND MOVE. JUST MOVE! I challenge you to do 1 to 3 different exercises 3 or more times this week.

JUST MOVE! I dare you. JUST MOVE! However, if you have mobility issues, physical limitations and previous sports injuries that are keeping you from being as active as you desire there are solutions. Make an appointment with our office for an evaluation. Most insurances are accepted, as well as Health Savings Plans.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Winter 2014 - 2015

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WINTER 2014 - 2015

journal

HEALTH & WELLNESS / BEAUTY 02 - 21 EDUCATION & CAREER 22 - 26 27 - 32 BUSINESS 34 - 39 COMMUNITY & EVENTS

journal

With over 32 years of experience, The Women’s Journal is a brand you can trust. It is a primary resource for women. Each edition is published bi-monthly and distributed free of charge. You can find a copy of the journal where savvy women shop. The journal also has subscribers that pay to have the journal delivered to their home or business.

PUBLISHER Tara Pannell DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS Wendy Ward DIRECTOR OF SALES Chris Cabotaje EDITOR Katrina Briggs GRAPHIC DESIGNER Fina Florez 8181 Professional Place Hyattsville, MD 20785 To Advertise, please call 1-866-517-5049 6

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The Women’s Journal Newspaper is published bimonthly and is available free of charge, by subscription, display stands in approved private and public establishments and authorized distributors only. Trademark and U.S. Copyright Laws protect The Women’s Journal Newspaper. No part of this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Women’s Journal Newspaper is not responsible for any editorial comment (other than its own), typographical errors from advertisements submitted as camera ready or any reproductions of advertisements submitted as camera ready. If an advertisement does not meet our standards of acceptance, we may revise or cancel it at any time, whether or not it has been already acknowledged and/or previously published. The advertiser assumes sole responsibility for all statements contained in submitted copy and will protect and indemnify The Women’s Journal Newspaper, its owners, publishers, and employees, against any and all liability, loss or expense arising out of claims for libel, unfair trade names, patents, copyrights and propriety rights, and all violations of the right of privacy or other violations resulting from the publication of this newspaper or its advertising copy. The Publisher shall be under no liability for failure, for any reason, to insert an advertisement. The Publisher shall not be liable by reason of error, omission and/or failure to insert any part of an advertisement. The Publisher will not be liable for delay or failure in performance in publication and/or distribution if all or any portion of an issue is delayed or suspended for any reason.

The Publisher will exercise reasonable judgment in these instances and will make adjustments for the advertiser where and when appropriate. The Women’s Journal Newspaper assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or reproductions made by advertisers.This newspaper will be published by the 15th of every other month. Representations by The Women’s Journal™ READERSHIP 250,000

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

“Your Best Vision is Our Focus” 12200 Annapolis Rd., Suite 116 Glenn Dale, MD 20769 301-805-4664 Dr. Renee Bovelle, MD

www.EnvisionEyeAndLaser.com

Achieve the Best Vision ofYou! You may have heard the saying the Your Eyes are the windows to your soul.

Well, did you know that they are also the windows to your youth?!

In this two part article we will discuss various ways you can reset the clock on aging.

Less Wrinkles

Botox® is a highly purified, naturally occurring protein that has the ability to very precisely relax the muscles to which it is applied.

In the 70’s ophthalmologists began injecting it into tiny eye muscles to treat “lazy eye”. In the 80’s, the drug was used to correct other facial, eyelid and limb diseases such as tremors and spasms. It was during a procedure in the late 1980’s that the cosmetic benefit was first noticed.

If dynamic wrinkles (related only to the movement of underlying muscle) are starting to make you look older or more “negative”, Botox® can help restore the rested, confident appearance you desire.

When done correctly, Botox does not result in a frozen look. Instead it actually allows you to show your true emotion, rather than always having a sad or angry look.

Less Sweating

Botox® can also be administered to reduce excessive sweating. It can be used for an important event, during hot weather, or year-round. After Botox® treatment, excess sweating starts to decrease within a couple of days, and the full effect are reached in two weeks.

In addition to making you more comfortable, this treatment may also make feel more confident because you do not have to worry about nervous sweating during important presentations or job interviews.

Get Rid of Baggage

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is one of the most commonly performed surgeries. It can be cosmetic or functional. Cosmetic blepharoplasty can give you back your original youthful appearance and reduce heaviness. Functional blepharoplasty may be indicated when heavy eyelid skin hangs over your visual field, blocking the side or overhead visual field. This condition, sometimes referred to as dermatochalasis, is a common change with aging. The need for functional surgery is documented with photography and visual field testing with and without manually lifting the eyelids with tape.

Lower lid blepharoplasty can remove the “bags” under the eyes.

It is also used if the lower lid hangs down or is pulled away from the eye. Functional causes are indicated if the lower lid is not in contact with the eyeball or if the lower lid turns inward intermittently and the eye lashes rub against the eye.

BLepharoplasty surgery can be done as an outpatient procedure, taking approximately one hour, using gentle sedation and local anaesthetic. It does not require general anaesthesia.

Both types of functional blepharoplasty may be covered by insurance. A thorough exam by an ophthalmologist can determine this.

Your Best Vision

Today’s glasses are not only used to increase vision, they are also a fashion accessory. Many people, including celebrities wear glasses to change their look. An American Board of Opticianary certified optician can help find the right frame to enhance and accent the best parts of your face. Glasses can also help to de-emphasize certain parts of your face that make you less than happy. The technologies used in current lenses make them lighter and stronger than ever before. A managing ABOC certified optician will take the time to find out your specific visual needs for work and play, will determine which type of frame is needed, which type of lens is needed and then show you styles that enhance your look. If you have good vision in only one eye, then you need special frames and lenses that offer protection to preserve your vision. The best sunglasses can help protect you from getting cancer around your eyes, prevent wrinkles and other aging changes around the eyes.

Glasses are an investment that you wear every day. You deserve expert help with such an important decision.

In the next article we will discuss dermal fillers such as Voluma & Juvederm, eye lash treatments, cataract, and cosmeceuticals.

Enjoy our Give & Get Holiday Specials and make an appointment at Envision Eye and Laser Vision today!

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Receive free cosmetic consultation with a regular eye exam. Make an appointment by the end of the year and GIVE two canned goods and GET 10% off any procedure not covered by insurance.

Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ HEALTH & WELLNESS

Chetanna Okasi, M.D.

Dr.Okasi is the Medical Director and owner of Women’s Wellness MD in Ellicott City, Maryland. She obtained her Medical Degree from Mount Sinai School of Medicine, completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sinai Hospital and Diplomate, AmericanBoard of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She welcomes new patients to Women’s Wellness MD

WOMEN’S WELLNESS CENTER 9501 Old Annapolis Road, Suite 305 Ellicott City, MD 21042

443-380-0060

Mammograms for Early Detection of Breast Cancer By Chetanna Okasi, M.D.

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ennifer was my last appointment of the day and she was late. Late meeting at work, had to pick up the kids, almost forgot she had even her annual GYN appointment. She apologized, and of course I could still see her. As a working mother myself, I empathized. During her visit, we reviewed her uneventful medical and family history, and her physical examination was normal. We discussed follow-up plans. Her Pap smear results would be available next week, and I would send her to get a mammogram since she recently celebrated her 40th birthday. She disapproved saying, “I don’t need a mammogram. I don’t have breast cancer. No one in my family has ever had breast cancer, or any type of cancer.” She gave more reasons: Too busy with work, school, and family; mammograms were painful; mammograms are for older women, etc. I had a rebuttal for each reason, so we went back and forth. Finally, I handed her the form and insisted, “Humor me.

Get it done, and then I’ll leave you alone.”

Jennifer and her husband came to my office the following week, both in tears. The mammogram was abnormal, and a follow-up biopsy confirmed that she had breast cancer.

She underwent surgery and radiation. Luckily, the cancer was detected very early, and her prognosis was excellent. She is grateful to me for insisting on the mammogram. And I am grateful that she listened.

Counseling my patients about breast cancer screening is perhaps one of the most important things I do at my practice. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and accounts for 27 percent of all new cases of cancer diagnosed in women. A woman’s lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is 12 percent, or 1 in 8. That means one out of every eight patients that I see will have breast cancer at some time in her life. While prevention of breast cancer is not possible, early detection of disease usually translates to a better outcome. As an OB/GYN, I am aware that I can make a difference in my patients’ lives by emphasizing screening guidelines aimed at early detection of breast cancer. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology currently recommends self-breast exam, clinical-breast exam, and breast imaging (usual8 wjwomen.com

ly mammogram) beginning at age 40.. Many women do not feel confident about doing selfbreast exams for fear that they are not doing it correctly. The key is to start at a younger age and get used to the normal feel and look of both breasts. Once an awareness of what feels and looks normal is established, then abnormal changes are easier to detect. For women still having menstrual cycles, they may experience changes in breast texture during the menstrual cycle. Any persistent abnormal findings should be reported to a health provider. The clinical breast exam is accomplished during a woman’s yearly GYN visit. It is important to have this breast examination by a health care professional at least once a year as a simple and effective strategy for early detection of breast cancer.

As an OB/GYN, I get a lot of questions about breast cancer. Here are a few: Q: What exactly is breast cancer?

Cancer is a term used to describe when cells in any part of the body start to grow abnormally. The cells grow uncontrollably forming a lump, or tumor. In the breast, some tumors are benign, not harmful, and do not spread. Breast cancer typically refers to tumors that are harmful, grow in size, invade the entire breast, and spread to other parts of the body.

Q: Who can get breast cancer?

Every woman can get breast cancer.

Q: How harmful is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women. The breast cancer survival rate is lower among women whose cancer was detected at a later stage of disease. Survival is also lower in women diagnosed before age 40. Younger women with breast cancer tend to have more aggressive tumors that are less responsive to treatment.

African-American women also have lower survival rates than Caucasian women.

Q: Is the risk higher for some women?

While every woman is at risk for breast cancer, some patients are at higher risk and may require enhanced screening. Known risk

factors for breast cancer are increasing age, family history, older age at first full-term pregnancy, early onset of menstrual cycles, late menopause, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and breast density. For older women in menopause, additional risks include obesity and use of hormone replacement therapy.

There is absolutely no scientific evidence that links underwire bras, breast implants, antiperspirant use, and medical abortion to breast cancer.

Keep in mind that having a risk factor, or even several, does not mean that you will get breast cancer. Most women who have one or more risk factors never develop the breast cancer. More important, many women diagnosed with breast cancer have no risk factors. For example, even if no family member has ever had breast cancer, the disease can still occur.

Q: What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?

Typically, early breast cancer does not cause signs or symptoms. However, all breast changes including lump in the breast or underarm, nipple discharge or other nipple changes, skin color or skin texture changes, or breast pain should be reported to a doctor.

Q: I don’t have health insurance. Can I still get screened for breast cancer?

The new health care laws give almost every woman access to cost-free or inexpensive preventive health care screenings. Women are encouraged to be proactive, and apply for coverage. If you missed the deadline for applying for health insurance last year, open enrollment begins again on November 15th.

Some local imaging centers offer reasonableor reduced-priced mammograms. The Howard County Health Department Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention Program also offers screening at no cost to qualified applicants.

Q: I am afraid. How can I prevent breast cancer?

Breast cancer is scary. Yet, we do not have to be scared or intimidated. Every woman should pay close attention to her own body.

Be proactive. Talk to a doctor about breast cancer screening. Early detection is the key.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Dr. Peter Merai & Michelle Merai, D.D.S. Dr. Peter Merai & Michelle Merai, D.D.S.

6188 Oxon Hill Road., Suite 410, Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-567-9844

Are you embarrassed by missing, broken or decaying teeth?

Restore Your Smile. Reclaim Your Confidence!

Periodontal (Gum) Disease

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um disease is caused by the accumulation of bacteria in spaces below the gum line called periodontal pockets. Most people do not know how to brush below the gum line so bacteria growth can go unchecked. Gum disease is often not painful until it is too late, at which time extensive treatment may become necessary or the dentist may have to remove the affected teeth.

Gum disease bacteria destroy the bone and soft tissue (gums) that support and surround teeth. Once this important tooth foundation gets weakened, the teeth become loose. Signs and symptoms of gum disease include: Red, swollen and/or bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, teeth that appear

to be drifting or spreading apart, abscessed teeth, change in the way partial dentures fit or tooth loss.

Many studies have linked periodontal disease with several health conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pneumonia, chronic kidney disease, or premature births.

The head and neck region has a vast array of blood vessels. Gum disease bacteria can easily enter these vessels and travel anywhere. The bacteria can cross the placenta in pregnant women, which can lead to a still birth. Heart attacks and strokes have been linked to periodontal disease. In some cases, the bacteria can be inhaled during sleep and the patient can succumb to a fatal pneumonia.

Diabetics can have extraordinary amounts of gum disease bacteria. On the other hand, chronic gum disease disrupts diabetic control

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and so a vicious cycle of advancing gum disease and worsening diabetes ensues.

Diabetic control improves when the cycle is broken by treating the periodontal disease.

Cigarette smoking complicates gum disease treatment. Relapse potential is high in smokers since nicotine induced vasoconstriction of blood vessels leads to poor healing response.

Treatment of gum disease is done by scaling and root planning under local anesthesia. Sometimes flap surgery is often indicated. Laser periodontal surgery can be a less invasive surgical procedure than traditional surgery. Laser surgery does not involve cutting and stitching.

Some people mistakenly believe that rinsing with mouthwashes, hydrogen peroxide, or even Chlorhexidine solution will treat their gum disease. No liquid substance (with just rinsing) can penetrate below the gum line. Also any toothbrush with moving bristles cannot effectively brush below the gum line. That is why electric toothbrushes are inefficient in brushing. The only predictable ways to decrease gum disease bacteria is by mechanically inserting the bristles of a flat toothbrush starting at a forty five degree angle on the teeth and sliding the bristles below the tissue level. Flossing is the second way. Thirdly, a water pick used at high speed can help to ‘pull’ the most destructive mobile bacteria type from below the tissue line.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Loving Care Pediatrics

Janet V. Johnson, MD

Board Certified in Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine & Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, School Physicals Available, Pre-school to College

Official Yellowbook Travel Vaccine Provider

3311 Toledo Terrace Suite C-201, Hyattsville, Maryland 20782 Mon–Fri, 9:00 am–5:00 pm Office: (301) 403-8808 / Fax: (301) 403-1341

Having an Attitude of gratitude

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By Janet Johnson, MD

eaching children to be grateful is what all parents want and can attain in surprisingly simple ways such as from sending thank you notes to feeding pets.

Children emulate the adults in their lives in every way. Be they parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, or childcare providers.

Make sure you use “thank you” and “please” when you talk to them.

Insist that they use their words too. Remember, good manners and gratitude overlap.

Here are several ways to help with teaching gratitude to your children: 1. Work gratitude into your daily conversation. Weave appreciation for mundane things into your everyday talk. When you reinforce an idea frequently, it’s more likely to stick. Pick an “I am thankful for …” part of the day to turn up the gratitude in your home. This can be done at dinnertime or at night time just before bed as part of a nightly routine. Teach children to be grateful for the creations around them, the seasons, the sunshine, the falling leaves and the rain. Children will quickly understand that there is beauty all around, and that it has come from something much bigger than we are.

2. Have kids help. Give your child a chore. By participating in simple household chores like feeding the dog or stacking dirty dishes on the counter, kids realize that all these things take effort. There is a better appreciation for the person who does the chore on a more regular basis.

As they grow, they can become drawings, then longer letters.

Younger children can even dictate the letter while you write.

Just the act of saying out loud why they loved the gift will make them feel more grateful.

• Practice saying no. Kids ask for toys, video games, and candy sometimes on an hourly basis. It’s difficult, if not impossible, to feel grateful when your every whim is granted. It is important for us to be reasonable and say “No”.

We also have to be careful rewarding our children for everything. We want them to do good because it is the right thing to do, and not because they get something, like a new toy or money.

• Teach your children to be grateful for adversity. When things are hard, or uncertain, or don’t go as planned, we need to teach our children to be grateful. To recognize the blessings that comes from hard things. We need to help children see what can be learned from our adversity, and how we can take what we learn into other situations to help others and ourselves.

• Be patient. Don’t expect gratitude to develop overnight.

This kind of work requires weeks, months, even years of reinforcement. Lead by example and mostly with love.

The goal is to give them “grateful eyes”, so they begin to for see the need before they have to be told. With time and patience you will be rewarded with a child who has an attitude of gratitude.

3. Provide your family opportunities to serve. Figure out some way your child can actively participate in helping someone else. Even if it is to help cook a meal, bake a cake, or walk a pet for a sick person. Start by encouraging your children to serve other family members, and then help them find ways to actively serve others. Let them help as you serve others. They will learn by example.

4. Encourage generosity. Donate toys and clothes to less fortunate kids; it inspires them to go through their own closets and give something special to those in need, as well.

5. Insist on thank-you notes. If your child knows how to draw or write, let them write thank-you notes for gifts. For toddlers, the cards can be just scribbles with your own thank-you attached.

Loving Care Pediatrics: Our Staff from left to right: Ama, Medical Assistant; Dr. Johnson; May, Medical Assistant Accepting new patients, birth to age 21 Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ HEALTH & WELLNESS Receive the Best in Professional Services from Alexandria’s First Physician-owned and Operated Med Spa. Relax, Refresh and Reduce with simple non-surgical procedures for your face and body with Dr. Leslie Pickens - The Cosmetic Expert Make an Appointment Today! with Dr. Pickens at her new location: 6371 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria VA 22312 - (703) 683-2773 Dr. Pickens is a board-certified specialist recognized as a leading physician in the field of cosmetic medicine. She is accredited by the American Cosmetic Cellular Medicine Association. Dr. Pickens’ philosophy is to help clients achieve, maintain or restore healthy-appearing skin and reduced signs of aging through education, motivation and support. Dr. Pickens is a trusted professional experienced in providing the best personal service addressing the specific needs and desires of her clients.

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What’s the Rave About the Vampire Facelift?

latelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy is a popular skin rejuvenating treatment best known as the Vampire Facial. The name “Vampire Facial” comes from the use of the patient’s own blood, the main component of the plasma applied topically. The same process is used in the Vampire Facelift.

The patient’s own blood is drawn, treated, and then the platelet-rich plasma is injected into the patient’s face. Injections are made into strategic areas to encourage skin healing and renewal through new collagen production and fresh skin cells full of human growth factors. This increase in collagen and growth factors creates a more youthful, plumper, and firmer appearing skin.

You can refresh and rejuvenate your face without invasive surgery and little down time.

Cosmetic surgery can remove excess skin and make the person appear younger. But, a surgical facelift can be more than what’s needed for some people (especially when loss of shape without extra skin is the main problem).

The HA fillers do little to improve skin tone and texture.

Unlike most procedures, the Vampire Facelift (R) offers a way of both restoring shape, and improving tone and texture, as well as literally rejuvenating new and younger tissue!

3 Steps of the Vampire Facelift® Procedure First, the injector (1) uses HA fillers to create a beautiful shape. (2) Then, the physician isolates growth factors from the patient’s blood. (3) When these

growth factors enter the face (injected by the physician), then multi-potent stem cells become activated to grow new tissue. This new tissue includes new collagen, new fatty tissue (for smoothness), and new blood vessels (for a healthy glow).

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Most patients see gradual and cumulative results throughout the treatment regime. You can look forward to: • Gradual smoothing the skin’s surface with a noticeable reduction in cellulite • Circumferential reduction, with noticeable reshaping of the treated area Vela Shape™ allows you to improve your lifestyle and boost your self-confidence.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

LaShawn Woodward-Hall Broker, CDPE,SFR/Shortsale Specialist Legacy Real Estate Properties

Office: 240-493-6182 / Fax: 240-652-6000 Cell: 240-643-5565 email: lswoodward@gmail.com

www.legacyreproperties.com

Interview With:

LaShawn Woodward-Hall

Local Celebrity, Business Woman, Ovarian Cancer & Abuse Advocate

WJ Women

visited with Lashawn Woodward Hall, a local celebrity, real estate agent and ovarian cancer survivor turned advocate. We learned how she overcame a serious health challenges and moved forward to develop her brand as a local celebrity.

Lashawn, how did you move on from the physical and emotional challenges of an early diagnosis at age 14 of Ovarian cancer?

My family was my greatest strength and my love for God. It was a very difficult time in my life and it was a lot to overcome. I’ve always been a fighter so, I got involved and tried to stay busy. I had my family there to support me during my darkest hour.

What were some of the practical things you did after diagnosis?

I learned as much as I could about what was happening to my body. I really didn’t have time to heal from being sexually assaulted before I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. It was one thing after another.

How did you stay focused on your future instead of the past challenges?

My faith in God is what helped me through each trauma.

I continued to watch my father become successful in business. My father’s success made me want to make him proud and succeed. I don’t know where I would be without the love and support of my family.

How did you make the courageous choice to take the best of who you are and build a brand?

I’ve always wanted to make a difference in another person’s life and within my community. I have a big heart and I’m driven by my passion for people.

When I entered into Real Estate as a career, I enjoyed helping people reach their goals and achieve their dream to one day own a home. When I see the difference I’ve made in their lives, it makes my job worthwhile. My passion to build a brand stems from the same vein of my desire to help educate others. I also wanted to educate women and spread awareness about ovarian cancer and what symptoms to look for.

How did you get to this place in your life?

I’ve had to do a lot of the work alone, with research and support groups. I had to learn a lot of the information from countless hours of reading over ma-

terials, searching the internet, looking for answers. I wanted to make it easier for the next person that came after me. So that they won’t have it as hard as I did and that gave me strength.

What does your brand represent?

My brand represents hope and survival but not only the journey of survival but; thriving and continuing to move forward. Being a double survivor of both ovarian cancer and sexual assault, I know what it feels like to beat the odds. I wanted to create a brand that would educate, empower and spread awareness of both ovarian cancer and for victims of sexual assault.

What were the highlights of filming for Hollywood Divas?

I enjoyed getting to know the cast and being able to educate and spread awareness about the symptoms of ovarian cancer. To see the strong emotion of the ladies as I and others shared our stories was a humbling experience. Please don’t forget to tune into TVOne Wednesday nights at 10pm. We want to encourage ever woman to watch the show and support ovarian cancer awareness.

What advice would you give to teenagers?

I would encourage young girls to not be ashamed of their bodies. If they notice anything different about their bodies, don’t be afraid to let someone know. What I would like to say to young women who may be experiencing ovarian cancer, I want them to know there is hope, and recovery. You can overcome ovarian cancer and there are women like me to help support you through the recovery process. It’s just so important for women to learn and know the symptoms.

What would you recommend for someone interested in building their brand?

I would have to first say, it’s not an easy task. But never give up on achieving your dream. Keep going until you see results and get a great team.

How can you be reached for speaking engagements?

Please contact: Follow Me on Twitter: and Facebook: or I can be contacted directly LaShawn Woodward-Hall 240-643-5565 / Email: lswoodward2@gmail.com Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ HEALTH & WELLNESS Garland K. Davis, DDS Family Dentistry

8730 Cherry Lane - Suite 6 Laurel MD 20707 garlanddavisdds.com

301-490-2900

Reclaim Your Smile with Dental Implants D espite the vast improvements in dental care, millions of Americans still suffer from tooth loss. The loss of a tooth is mostly due to tooth decay, gum disease, or a mouth injury. In the past, the only options available for people with missing teeth were bridges and dentures. Now, dental implants are available as an effective, preferred treatment for missing teeth.

So what exactly is a dental implant?

A dental implant is actually a replacement for the root or roots of a tooth. Like tooth roots, dental implants are secured in the jawbone and are not visible once surgically placed. The implant is used to secure a crown, which is the part of tooth seen in the mouth. They are made of titanium, which is lightweight, strong and biocompatible, which means that it is not rejected by the body.

The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.

The success rate of dental implants vary, and it’s usually based on where in the jaw the implants are placed. However, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. And with proper care, implants can last a lifetime. Dental implants have the highest success rate of any implanted surgical device.

What are the advantages of a dental implant?

There are many advantages to a dental implant. Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel more confident. They look and feel like your own teeth, as the crown is colored to match your 14

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natural tooth color. And because the implant is designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent. Because they are permanent implants eliminate the discomfort that comes with removable dentures.

Unlike with dentures, it is easier to eat. You can eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain. Your speech will not be affected as it might be with ill-fitting dentures. And you never have to worry that your teeth may “slip.”

Most importantly, dental implants allow for easier access between teeth, which can improve your oral hygiene and reduce the risk of gum disease. Because nearby teeth are not altered or supporting the implant as they would be with a bridge, more of your natural teeth are left intact.

As you know, your teeth require at-home oral care and regular visits to the dentist. Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, brushing and flossing will still apply, just as with your natural teeth.

OUR SPECIAL PROMOTION

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Annapolis Integrative Medicine Alan Weiss, M.D.

1819 Bay Ridge Avenue, Suite 200 Annapolis, MD 21403 Phone: (410) 266-3613 Fax: (410) 266-6104

Hours: Monday: 9:30 AM - 7:00 PM Tues - Wed: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday - Sunday: Closed

Inflammation: The Cause of Many Health Problems

I

By Alan S Weiss M.D.

nflammation is a normal physical response to various harmful stimuli, such as infections, irritants and trauma. You can detect inflammation by the presence of localized swelling, redness and heat or fever. When appropriately regulated and short lived, inflammation is important to maintaining our survival.

However many of our current health concerns are triggered by chronic inflammation. Inflammation can result in destruction of tissues and lead to chronic disease. Tests that may reveal chronic inflammation are the sedimentation rate and C - reactive protein. Examples of diseases which may result from chronic inflammation include coronary artery disease, certain cancers, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, acne, asthma and celiac disease. Other conditions worsened by inflammation include diabetes, osteoporosis, periodontitis, obesity and chronic fatty liver disease. Most of the chronic diseases we currently deal in our society have at least an element of inflammation.

The conventional medical model dictates determining the disease at hand and then prescribing the matching medicine. This can help turn down the volume on the condition so to speak but does not deal with the roots of the disease.

So what are the causes of inflammation? I look in the following categories to determine the roots of inflammation.

Chronic infections can cause inflammation including bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections. Studies have even shown that plaque on arteries can contain bacterial DNA. Some of these infections can be hidden, especially in areas like the sinuses and roots of

teeth, and can be difficult to detect, as the bacteria that causes Lyme disease has proven to be difficult to detect. Considering that there may be infectious causes of chronic disease (including chronic stomach or intestinal issues) is the first step to doing the testing to find them.

Food allergies and intolerances can also provoke inflammation.

Two of the most well known are wheat and gluten, but I have seen numerous people intolerant of other foods such as corn, soy and sugar.

Chronic exposure to foods that provoke inflammation can cause pain, either in specific joints or diffusely, fogginess, abdominal pain, weight gain and other issues.

Other sources of chronic inflammation include autoimmune disease, though many autoimmune diseases are triggered by the same triggers, including food and environmental allergies and stress.

Finally there are substances that can provoke inflammation including mercury and mold exposure.

What can one do on their own to reduce inflammation? A few simple changes can help. As with many other conditions, reducing and managing stress and optimizing sleep can make a big difference. Reducing sugar and refined flours can help, and a trial off of wheat and gluten can help a surprising number of people. Safe and widely available supplements that can be helpful include fish and krill oil, curcumin (derived from turmeric) and plant derived enzymes.

Seeking help from a knowledgeable physician to determine the presence root causes of inflammation can help greatly with a wide variety of health conditions.

Now Offering Bio-TE Hormone Pellet Therapy for Men & Women Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ HEALTH & WELLNESS

Maryland Oncology Hematology Dr. Kashif Ali, MD

Dr. Kashif Ali earned his MD Degree from Ross University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at the Seton Hall University in New Jersey. While at Seton Hall University he became the Chief Resident and then went on to complete his training in Hematology and Oncology. During this training he was appointed Chief Fellow. Dr. Ali is presently board certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology and Oncology. Dr. Ali is available to see patients in Hematology and Oncology.

Ovarian Cancer - An Overview and Update By Ali Kashif, MD

O

varian cancer is a common type of cancer in women. In general, cancer forms as a result of healthy cells acquiring mutations, which then cause them to grow and multiple out of control. These cancer cells then invade nearby organs and can break off and spread elsewhere in the body.

According to the American Cancer Society, in 2012 about 22,000 women were diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Unfortunately, about 15,000 women died of this cancer. This statistic makes ovarian cancer the ninth most common cause of cancer among women and is the fifth most common cause of cancer death in women. An average woman’s risk of getting ovarian cancer is 1 in 71 and the risk of dying from ovarian cancer is 1 in 95. Although the risk of getting this cancer is much lower than breast cancer (which carries a lifetime risk of 1 in 8 in women), ovarian cancer can frequently be connected genetically to breast cancer in women carrying a mutation called the BRCA mutation.

Ovarian cancer generally occurs in women over the age of 60 and is more common in Caucasians than in African Americans. Fortunately, the incidence of ovarian cancer has been decreasing over the past 20 years.

Ovarian cancer develops in any one of the two ovaries, which are glands in women with the function of producing hormones and eggs for reproduction. Three different types of cells make up the ovaries: epithelial cells, germ cells, and stromal cells. Each of these types of cells has the ability to develop into cancers. The treatment may vary based on what type of cell is involved.

Ovarian tumors can either be benign or cancerous. If benign, a simple removal of the tumor is sufficient. If cancerous, they have the ability to spread and additional treatment by your oncologist will be needed after removal of the tumor. Often, ovarian cancer can be undetectable until it has already spread.

Women at risk for breast cancer include those who have: • family members with ovarian cancer • a genetic mutation that runs in the patient or family called BRCA1 or BRCA2.

• had breast, uterine, or colon cancer.

• an Ashkenazi Jewish background • never given birth or have had trouble getting pregnant • had endometriosis (when cells from the lining of the uterus grow in other areas of the body) • • • • • • • • •

According to the Mayo Clinic, ovarian cancer should be suspected in women with: abdominal pressure, fullness, swelling or bloating pelvic discomfort or pain persistent indigestion, gas or nausea changes in bowel habits, such as constipation changes in bladder habits, including a frequent need to urinate loss of appetite or quickly feeling full increased abdominal girth or clothes fitting tighter around your waist a persistent lack of energy low back pain

Unfortunately, a Pap smear done by a gynecologist does not detect ovarian cancer. The important thing is to pay attention to any of the above mentioned symptoms and then speak with your doctor. If ovarian cancer is suspected by your doctor, he or she will then perform a pelvic exam, transvaginal ultrasound, and/or a CA-125 blood test to detect ovarian cancer.

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In the event that ovarian cancer is suspected, a surgery will need to be done by a gynecologic oncologist who will remove the tumors. This surgery not only confirms the type of ovarian tumor, whether malignant or benign, but also determines the stage of the cancer. The stage of the cancer then helps guide further therapy that your medical oncologist will deliver and also gives information on the expected survival.

The stages of ovarian cancer are as follows: • Stage I. Cancer is within one or both ovaries.

• Stage II. Cancer has spread to other nearby areas such as the uterus or fallopian tubes.

• Stage III. Cancer has spread outside of the pelvis to lymph nodes or other areas in the abdomen.

• Stage IV. Cancer has spread elsewhere and to other organs.

Once surgery has been completed, most patients with ovarian cancer will require some form of chemotherapy. Depending on the findings during surgery and the stage of the cancer, chemotherapy will be given in the veins and may also need to be injected directly into the abdomen through a catheter. The purpose of chemotherapy is to get rid of any remaining cancer cells after the surgery and to reduce the chance of the cancer from returning. Once a women has been treated successfully for her ovarian cancer, she will need regular follow-up visits and physical examinations with her doctor for life and will have her CA-125 blood test monitored on a scheduled basis.

WJ

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Massage Envy Spa

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ake your neighborhood Massage Envy Spa part of your wellness plan.

So what does massage have to do with your health? Long-term effects of regular massage can include increased circulation, improved flexibility, reduced blood pressure, muscle pain relief, and a stronger immune system. Add Murad® Healthy Skin facials to your wellness routine and you’ll enjoy healthy, more youthful-looking skin too. Schedule an appointment today and start yourself on the road to wellness at a Massage Envy Spa near you.

Our spa provides a full suite of Massage Envy services including: • Murad® Healthy Skin Facials • Sugar Foot Scrub Therapy • Aromatherapy • Deep Muscle Therapy • Hot Stone Envy Massage • Sports Massage • Swedish Massage • Reflexology • Deep Tissue Massage • Cranial Sacral Massage • Trigger Point Massage • Prenatal Massage Massage therapy is beneficial to your body and your mind. It can also help to prevent illness, as well as improve your mood and job performance, which will keep you active throughout the year!

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WJ HEALTH & WELLNESS

Internal Life Detox Romunda Ings, CCP Services include Colonics, Iridology, Feet Detox, Ear Candling, Circulation Therapy, Massage, Reflexology, Body Wraps, Exercise Classes, Weight Loss Management, Nutritional Supplements, and Workshop/Seminars. Please contact us for more information on detoxification and any of our other services.

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PARASITES LOVE YOU

What is a Parasite? arasites are organisms that live on or inside of humans and feed off of good cells.

Parasites can live within the intestines for years without causing any symptoms. When they do, symptoms include the following: • Abdominal pain • Constipation or Diarrhea • Nausea or vomiting • Gas or bloating • Dysentery (loose stools containing blood & mucus) • Rash or itching around the rectum • Stomach tenderness • Feeling tired • Weight loss or Weight gain Most of the time, parasites are expelled out of the bowels and can live harmlessly in a 30ft. small and large intestine where it does little harm. When the parasite is able to invade other parts of the body such as the liver, uterus or kidneys, it can cause cancer.

If the host body is unable to properly digest, absorb, or eliminate correctly, it lays in the pockets of the wall in the colon where it travels thru your blood stream and expels waste.

Though conventional wisdom has it that cancer is not like other diseases; that it is a fire that cannot be controlled or contained. The

(301) 806-0106

By Romunda Ings, CCP

cancerous organ must be radiated or cut out - nothing could be more wrong. All cancers are alike and all are caused by a single parasite, the same parasite that also causes Tumors and Fibroids. If you kill the parasite, the cancer stops immediately and the tissues return to normal.

Once the parasites are in, it is hard for the different organs to purge them (and very difficult for the body to handle all the new toxins that invade the body as a result of the parasites). There is good news, to recover from diseases you must kill the parasites, stop feeding it what it likes and it will stop growing. Detoxing out inflammation, metals and common toxins help clean up your Digestive System and strengthen the immune system. Not strengthening the immune system, will weaken the body from healing.

WHY IS DETOXIFICATION CRITICAL? The importance of detoxing is necessary so that the body can heal from the inside out, from free radicals and stress. Most people live on a running wind mill doing things that allows the body to break down due to lack of Tender Loving Care. Studies have shown that organs die due to straining and breaking down excessive sugars. Sugars turns into yeast, candida and fungus. Once you cleanse, the organs can revive and then the body can reshape itself.

Love You With Life and Stop Loving Yourself To Death.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Winter 2014 - 2015

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ EDUCATION & CAREER

Flassh Continuing Education Resources, Inc. Dr. Andrea Walbrook, CEO and Founder

Email: flasshce@gmail.com / Facebook: Flassh Continuing Education Resources, Inc.

Flasshcein30min.com

Dr. Andrea Walbrook is ASHA nationally certified and Board Licensed in multiple states as a speech pathologist with 24 years of service to developmentally disabled individuals with cognitive and speech/language impairments. Her career began with graduation from North Carolina A & T State University (B.A.), Appalachian State University (M.A.), and culminated with her doctoral studies at Howard University (PhD). She has provided over two decades of clinical services in Prince George’s County, Maryland and the Washington DC metropolitan area. She has served Howard University in the Communication Sciences and Disorders Departments as a instructor, guest lecturer and clinical supervisor. Her success in servicing speech and language impaired children and adults has been acknowledged from Community Organizations, Universities and bestowed Clinical Awards. Dr. Walbrook extended her service to disabled individuals as a State Board Member on The Arc of Maryland. She is able to serve others with her family by her side- Reynold C. Walbrook, husband and three awesome children Reynold C.Walbrook, Jr., Sarah Gabrielle Walbrook and Reuben Emanuel Walbrook.

It’s Suppose to be Special Education NOT Stress Education

4 Tips to De-stress the Process for NEW Teachers and Parents

A

nother school year has started with scenes of yellow buses coasting along neighborhood streets and uniformed clad students at street corners. This is the time of year in public education that teachers are refreshed and students are beginning anew.

That is until the end of the first 45 days of school passes. Why the first 45 days? Many initial forms of data collection are mandated to be administered in the first 30 to 40 days of the school year. The assessment window permits teachers to have a baseline at the Beginning of Year (BOY) for critical reading, math and curriculum standards to be monitored Middle of year (MOY) and End of Year (EOY). The administrators of the multiple data collection tools are the classroom teacher.

That’s right the NEW classroom teacher that has just acquired a new set of learners, delivers instruction, engages learners and manages a newly formed group of learners.

Stress Point 1 for NEW Teachers: Testing, Assessments, Data Overload for Special Education Referral Process Documentation The assessment window often “doubles” as a massive stressor for NEW teachers in addition to the demands of instructional delivery.

Therefore the purpose of assessment takes on multiple facets: 1) a snapshot of a student’s present and current abilities in the target areas of assessment i.e. reading, math, content of curriculum standards, 2) platform for the implementation of differentiated instruction and 3) a data source that can support the initiation of Response To Intervention, research based programs such as Reading Recovery, Wilson Reading Program or the initiation of the special education process. The assessments are not a sole or direct springboard toward the initiation of special education process. They are one variable that precursors the initiation of the special education process. Other variables are student portfolios, work samples, classroom observations and parent based interviews.

NEW Teacher Tip #1: De-stress the Assessment Window MAKE YOUR OWN CLASS ASSESSMENT CALENDAR within the set testing window. Literally print out a calendar template and WRITE in the NAMES of each child you will test on a specified date. Once you breakdown your class size into testing blocks the task will seem accomplishable within the testing window. It seems simple but EXPERIENCE reveals- breaking down a LARGE project into SMALLER tasks WORKS! NEW Teacher Tip #2: De-stress the Actual Assessment Administration De-stress by planning where you will administer the test, prepackaging the materials and adherence to the preset class assessment calendar PRIOR to conducting the assessment. Over the years, during the testing window I have seen NEW teachers attempt to find “where” they were going to test a child with the student in tow. While wandering, looking, scouting out a test location they lost minutes and minutes matter when you have a class of twenty to thirty students to assess. It 22

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seems simple but EXPERIENCE reveals - He who fails to plan, plans to fail.

Stress Point #1 for Parents: Invitation to Special Education Meeting Letter Arrives (*in book bag or mail) “How you know my child need(s) Special Ed?” that response has been a resounding sentence many principals, teachers, special educators and related service providers have heard during my tenure as a related service provider in special education. Some parents’ voices were laden with frustration, confusion and defensiveness after the first 45 days of the school assessment window. Many parents were unaware of the importance, relevance and repercussions of their child’s performance on the beginning of year assessments required by school systems to maintain accreditation, state directives and district regulations.

Over the course of 24 years as a participant in the special education process some parents reported the “feeling” of being caught off guard, oblivious to the importance of the assessments and “didn’t know *they were suppose to know that” (*their child).

There are many opportunities for parents and the team to review, discuss and plan for a student prior to implementing special education services. School based teams have to analyze existing data, provide information to parent(s) in a clear and non- jargon laden presentation, acquire parental permission for prescribed related assessment from a qualified examiner (i.e. school psychologist, speech pathologist, special educator, occupational therapist). There are multiple filters within the special education process to provide parents direct access throughout the decision making process.

Parent Tip #1 to De-stress the Teacher-Struggling Learner Concerns It is essential to develop a professional relationship with your child’s teacher and parents know the academic expectations for their children at each grade level. School systems have made available in multiple forms of communication- websites, town meetings, newsletters and the traditional “BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT” supports for parents to be informed of grade and school expectations. It seems simple but EXPERIENCE reveals- Visible, Active and Informed Parents make a difference in their child’s education.

Parent Tip #2 to De-stress the Initiation of the Special Education Process Parents should be diligent of TIP #1. Therefore the parents are aware of any difficulty their child has prior to receiving communication from an official group such as a school based team. Parents should ATTEND and PARTICIPATE IN ANY MEETING REGARDING THEIR CHILD’S EDUCATION. All meetings in the special education process are required to invite the parent in writing. It seems simple but EXPERIENCE reveals- “At the end of the day, the most overwhelming key to a child’s success is the positive involvement of parents”. Jane D. Hull, Direct Quote from Brainy Quote Registered Trademark.

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EDUCATION & CAREER

THE FLASSH STORY

FLASSH Continuing Education Resources, Inc. is a multi-faceted organization that consists of consultants, instructors and professional development presenters with a physical presence (onsite training capabilities) and online e-course platform – FLASSHCEIN30MIN.COM (Fall 2014 Launch)….and yes FLASSH has two s’s! Functional Language Special Education Speech and Hearing (FLASSH).

FLASSH is a team of “teacher e-course instructors” that molded what is passionate to us- education on a unique and diverse designed ...online e-couse platform-----FLASSHCEIN30MIN.COM that will be a FIRST EVER(really FIRST EVER in 2014 MINORITY BASED professional development and continuing education platform to address Urban, Rural, African American and Latino Topics in general education, special education, early childhood and related services (OT, PT, SLP) Real Teachers, Real Therapists, Real Solutions, in Real Time...

It’s that simple!!!

As a practicing speech pathologist of 24 years… I attended hundreds of hours of PD/ CE and have found that the most informative and RELEVANT instruction came from – current teachers in the classroom or practicing therapist within the demographic community of the students I serviced on my caseload.

Thus FLASSHCEIN30MIN.COM was developed to be an e-course platform utilizing real teachers perspectives in 30 minute increments --- NO FLUFF - just tried and tested solutions from a set of educators - MINORITIES - not really SEEN or PRESENT online teaching. FLASSHCEIN30MIN.COM is the ONLY minority owned website e-course platform with a team of majority minority instructors ( African American, Dominican, Puerto Rican, Males and Females) contributing to online professional development courses website!!!! This VENTURE of LEARNING solutions from the UNSEEN and UNHEARD opens the door to solving problems, professional development, continuing education and strategies from a unique and diverse perspective-OURS! FLASSHCEIN30MIN.COM has access to more than 400 plus years of experience in servicing children- specifically urban, suburban, African American and Latino. The instructors represent the face of global citizens- real teachers, real therapists, real solutions, in real time- It’s that simple.

OPT IN to flasshcein30min.com to access “REAL SOLUTIONS”!

Facebook: Flassh Continuing Education Resources, Inc. Email: flasshce@gmail.com Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ EDUCATION & CAREER

CAPITAL CITY EDUCATIONAL CONSULTING FIRM Teresa Maisonet-Menendez tmaisonet@ccecf.com

CCECF.COM

Photo by: Maynard Manzano

Teresa Maisonet-Menendez

Ms. Teresa Maisonet-Menendez, M.A. is an experienced urban schools special education teacher. She earned her master degree in Special Education from the Catholic University of America. Currently, Ms. Maisonet-Menendez is a doctoral student at the George Washington University, Washington, DC and educational author for FLASSH, online continuing education courses. Ms. Menedez’s instructional expertise spans over 20 years beginning with the Head Start Public School Transition program for preschool to elementary age children to developing adult education programs for the D.C. Department of Corrections. During her tenure she developed and implemented Spanish literacy, life skills and domestic violence prevention programs.

Important Questions for Teachers

T

he telephone rings and it’s your child’s teacher. Your child is falling farther behind and acting up in class. Recently, you had a conference with him so why is your child getting worse?

This scenario happens frequently. You thought you were doing all the right things, however; the teacher says your child is getting worse. Many parents attend a teacher’s conference not knowing what to ask. At the conference, the teacher explained the failing areas and how to help him at home. However, after the conference, the parents still may not know why the child is failing and how is he helped at school. Often, the behavior of the child at school continues deteriorating in spite of your efforts at home. It is critical to ask questions that create a clear picture of your child’s performance and how the teacher supports him. More so if a disability is suspected.

To better understand a child’s performance at school, parents need to ask the right questions. This method of inquiry will show where your child stands in the continuum of education and how supportive the teacher is being. When asking questions, you need to have a reason for asking those specific questions.

The reason for the question will help you analyze the teacher’s answer and to determine if your child’s needs are being met at school.

For example, you may ask how the teacher plans. You want to ask this question to see if the teacher has planned a scope and sequence for the entire year. If the teacher is able to answer this question, it means that she is planning with a clear beginning, middle and end. If the teacher does not have the curriculum mapped out for the year, ask how she chooses what standard to teach.

What is her goal for the year?

Other questions can be directed at how she teaches concepts such as how the learning centers complement the lesson, how much time she gives the children to practice the skill taught, and what is her frequent mode for students’ work. Her answers will help you better understand her teaching approach.

It is also important to ask the teacher what questions your child asks during class. This shows if your child is struggling or if he is being academically stimulated.

Another aspect to take in consideration is the curriculum taught to your child. What is the academic framework used to teach reading, math, and writing. Examples of academic frameworks are Everyday Math, Singapore Math, Guided Reading, and Writer’s Workshop. According to the framework, what is your child‘s grade level? In comparison to his peer, where is your child: top,

middle or bottom of the class? You may want to ask these questions before Thanksgiving break. In case that your child needs extra support, your child would receive support for a longer time. It is surprising to many parents to find out after spring break that their child is failing and retention is recommended.

Inquire about your child’s social skills. How does your child work in groups? How does the teacher support children’s understanding and fellowship toward their peers. These skills are necessary in the overall global economy.

Also, you may want to find out the teacher’s multicultural competence.

Ask about the demographics of her class. How does she work with students with special needs in the classroom? Ask about the classroom accommodations for these children. As long as you are not asking for names or the identity of the students, teachers should be able to answer these questions. The answers to these questions will reveal teachers’ cultural competence.

Finally, ask the teacher to name five good things about your child. If she answers quickly, she sees the child as a person. If she needs time to say five good things about your child and her focus is on your child’s deficits, she may be seeing the child as a problem instead of seeing a child that needs support in areas of struggle.

CAPITAL CITY EDUCATIONAL CONSULTING FIRM

Parenting a child with special needs brings many changes to parents’ lives. Parents need to learn how to work with a child displaying challenging behaviors. Navigating special education can be exasperating when parents lack the inside knowledge of the field. In addition, parents may experience high levels of stress because of the child’s special needs.

CCECF is an agency created to provide consulting services and parenting classes to these families. In the parenting groups, parents learn how to respond to specific behaviors associated with specific disabilities, how to navigate special education, and how to manage their stress. By providing these services, CCECF fills a void in the community by providing specialized parenting classes for families with special needs children.

Visit us at www.ccecf.com to find out about the parenting groups and consulting services. Send your questions in response to this article to tmaisonet@ccecf.com. You may also sign-up for a webinar or phone conference in response to this article.

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Barbers must complete six (6) CEs by their next renewal date – September 30, 2015

Photo by: Maynard Manzano

Flair Beauty Institute is a bilingual training center under the leadership of Paula Granados with over 20 years of hands on client service and salon management experience. Drawing from her personal experience as a stylist, Paula knows firsthand what it takes to succeed in the beauty industry. Paula and her team are devoted to developing prepared and qualified beauty professionals in all areas of the beauty industry. The Flair team of instructors is committed to instructing, mentoring and developing students.

Not only do the students receive textbook instruction but, they learn important industry protocol, laws and insights from seasoned professionals with several years of experience in their respective areas. The

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Testimonials from the Students

“At Flair Beauty Institute I not only received great instruction, but important information about hygiene standards and infection control. I have the knowledge I need to properly service all customers.”

-Joelle, recent braiding certification student.

“I learned new tools that are helping me to run a better business. I now have a website, new management skills and important business tools.” “My business has increased by 80% because of the management training program at Flair under the direction of Ms. Smith.”

-Aisha, Owner of Aisha’s Braids, Braiding Manager Program.

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“The staff at Flair Institute is super attentive and supportive. Because of the instruction I have received I am confident on how to apply all types of chemicals from colors to relaxers.”

-Jessica, Senior Cosmetology student.

Meet Flair Beauty Institute’s Dream Team

Paula Granados, Owner Flair Beauty Institute Ms. Granados has always valued personal development; these values prompted her to pursue unique opportunities with her Cosmetology training. Paula’s tenacity and vision gave her the insight to combine her geriatric certification with cosmetology. Paula’s Cosmetology training has opened three different doors to business ownership. She is contracted to service the residents of Brighton Gardens of Friendship Heights Senior Living Facility. Paula is also the co-owner of a local hair salon and Flair Beauty Institute.

Mirna Valle, Bilingual Cosmetology Instructor Ms. Valle is a leader in the Cosmetology industry with over 30 years of experience and expertise. A natural lover of people and leader, she began to fill the shoes of a trainer while still a stylist at one of the top Washington, D.C. salons. Ms. Valle recognized a common occurrence from new stylists: “Ask Ms. Valle she knows how to do it and she will show you how.” The recognition by other stylist as a “teacher”

Courses List:

Cosmetology 1500 Hours, part time or full time Manager 500 Hours, part time 6 months Instructor 1000 Hours, part time 10 months

inspired Ms. Valle to pursue certification as an Instructor. Ms. Valle is still respected today as a firm, effective, nurturing mentor.

Ms. Carolyn Smith, Natural Hair Instructor & Mgr Ms. Smith has always had a passion to help others and participate in growth in the local Washington, D.C. community. As a business woman her grassroots involvement in the community allowed her to learn about the training and certification needs of the local braiding community.

The needs of the braiding community directed Ms. Smith to receive instructor training. Ms. Smith assists in helping the braiding community to understand and participate in the required certification for all braiders.

Mr. Graham, Barbering Instructor.

Mr. Graham is a seasoned professional barber with over 12 years of experience. Mr. Graham wants to share information on the economic opportunities barbering can create.

New Program: Barbering 1500 Hours

State Board Prep 100 Hours, part time 3 months

Manicure 350 Hours, part time 5 months

Recertification for current cosmetologists Upon completion of 1500 hours of instruction students are ready for the State Board Exam.

Braiding 100 Hours, part time 3 months

Esthetician 600 Hours, part time 7 months

Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ EDUCATION & CAREER Saving for College Is Possible – and Affordable

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ife gets busy and before you know it, your children are college age.

Unfortunately, between booties, football cleats and pom poms finding the time, and money, to save for college can be difficult. It’s possible that you’ve decided that saving isn’t an option for you, and that you’ll rely on student loans or some other miracle later on. Or, if your kids are older you’ve decided that there isn’t enough time to save. Regardless of where you are with saving, or how old your children are, remember it’s never too early, or too late, to get started. Here are some reasons why: •

Any savings large or small helps reduce the amount you need to borrow. Every dollar you save, is one less you may have to borrow and repay with interest later. Even a few thousand dollars less in loans can make a difference. If you save $200 a month for 4 years- assuming a 6% return, that could amount to about $10,820.

If you were to borrow this money instead of saving, you’d have to repay that amount, with interest.* When you save, the interest is paid to you, while when you borrow, you pay the interest

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Tax benefits! Maryland Taxpayers can get up to a $2,500 income deduction on contributions annually per account or child depending on the Plan. The Prepaid College Trust and the College Investment Plan are the only 529 plans that offer Maryland tax benefits. Based on estimates from the State comptroller, that can be about $190 State and local tax savings per $2500 income deduction.** So, even if there isn’t a lot of time for growth potential, the income deduction could mean a couple hundred dollars more in your pocket each year.

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Savings can be used at eligible institutions across the country.

Generally speaking, if the school has a federal school code, the Plans can be used. So, that means four-year colleges in or out-ofstate, two-year colleges and even trade/technical schools.

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So, don’t assume it’s too late to save, or that you can’t afford to save for college. You can still have an impact on how much debt your student will need to take. Saving for college no matter how late you start can make a difference.

The College Savings Plans of Maryland has two State-sponsored 529 college savings options to choose from – the Maryland College Investment Plan and the Maryland Prepaid College Trust. The Plans offer affordable and flexible options to help fit nearly any budget. You can start with as little as $25 per month. Regardless of when you start, every dollar saved is one less you may need to borrow. To learn more go to CollegeSavingsMD.org/webinar.

Enrolling in the College Savings Plans of Maryland is an important decision for you and your family. Please read the entire Enrollment Kit carefully before deciding to enroll. The Enrollment Kit is available online or by calling 888.4MD.GRAD (463.4723).

Section 529 plans offered by other states may offer tax or other benefits to taxpayers or residents of those states that are not available under the College Savings Plans of Maryland. If you live outside of Maryland, you should consider any college savings program offered by your home state or your Beneficiary’s home state prior to making a decision to invest in the College Savings Plans of Maryland. Keep in mind that state-based benefits should be one of many appropriately weighted factors to be considered when making an investment decision. In addition, you should periodically assess, and if appropriate, adjust your Section 529 plan investment choices with your time horizon, risk tolerance and investment objectives in mind. *This is for illustrative purposes only. **Note that this is a hypothetical scenario and the amount of savings from your income deduction may vary.

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BUSINESS

Med CyberSecurity, LLC Rob Campbell, MSCS, BSET, Secuirty +, HIT

Ph: 301-266-2457

Fax: 301-645-1749 www.medcybersecurity.com

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Holiday Season Cyber Security Tips for Small Businesses, Medical Providers and their Customers

f your organization stores, transmits or processes customer credit, debit and ATM cards, Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance is mandatory. If you suffer a breach and aren’t in compliance, you could be fined from $50,000 to $500,000 and be required to regularly conduct expensive third-party audits of your information security. Organizations that fail to comply with the PCI DSS potentially could suffer the loss of customer confidence and loss of the ability to accept credit cards for payment.

The medical community has a special federal legal obligation (HIPAA) to protect patient information that it obtains. Medical providers that fail to voluntarily comply with HIPAA compliance standards may be subject to civil money penalties ranging from $100 to $50,000 or more per violation. In addition, certain violations of the standards may be subject to criminal prosecution.

It is especially important that businesses have their Internet defenses in place and be on high alert during the holiday season. Med Cyber-Security, which protects small businesses and medical providers in the areas of Metropolitan Washington D.C., Pennsylvania and Florida recommends 5 key steps to ensure that data and customer information is not compromised. These businesses are not the only targets of hackers, the cyber criminals also go after the businesses’ online customers so it is critical to keep one’s customers safe as well.

Med Cyber-Security conducts free initial consultations and has developed 10 Internet security steps that can be shared with online customers.

Security Tips for Small Businesses 1. Scan network and web applications regularly for vulnerabilities so you can detect and patch them quickly.

2. Keep your computer applications, operating systems and security software updated. Make sure servers, smart phones, tablets, laptops and workstations are fully patched regularly.

3. Regularly train employees on cyber threats, utilize effective passwords and avoid clicking on links or attachments within emails from untrusted sources.

4. Utilize web content filtering and web protection solutions.

5. Enforce policies that forbid employees from downloading executable files via the Internet.

Security Tips for Online Customers 1. Wi-Fi Hotspots: Don’t share personal or financial information over an unsecured network.

2. Make sure your browser, desktop, laptop, smartphone and tablet has the latest security updates installed and you have a firewall in place.

3. Set your browser to block pop-up messages. If you do receive one, click on the “X” at the top right corner of the title bar to close the pop-up message.

NEVER click on a pop-up!

4. Watch out for holiday gift cards and holiday coupon offers sent via e-mail.

5. Fraudulent websites are made to look like legitimate business sites. Don’t follow links provided by e-mail offers or pop up ads.

6. Use a credit card that limits your fraud liability. Avoid using debit cards to do online purchases when possible.

Debit cards are usually linked to your checking account.

7. Always look at your Web browser for the https (as opposed to http) protocol. The “s” let’s you know that the Web site is more secure.

8. Watch out for unsolicited e-mails, even from senders that you know, that include links or attachments.

9. Be especially cautious of clicking on links posted on social networking and micro blogging sites.

10. Avoid using weak or default passwords for any online site.

Robert Campbell is the CEO of Med Cyber-Security, a Maryland based consulting firm that performs security and penetration testing for healthcare providers and other businesses. He is an expert on security, encryption, networking, and Internet technologies. Robert received his Master in Computer Science with a concentration in software engineering and space systems engineering from the elite Naval Post Graduate School. He is a healthcare certified information technologist. Additionally, he holds the following degrees and certifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Electronic Engineering Technology, Space Systems Engineering Professional Code, and a Security + accreditation. He is a former Naval Cryptologist, with over 30 years of experience in the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community.

Robert formed Med Cyber-Security to use his skills and expertise to empower physicians, healthcare organizations and practitioners to protect patient’s data and their own practices. In this age of ever increasing regulations it is difficult for the physician to be aware of the permutations and consequences. Allow Med Cyber-Security to partner with you to help keep you compliant with HIPPA/HITECH requirements and you can concentrate on your taking care of your patients.

Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ BUSINESS

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Naola Henderson, Agent

New York Life Insurance Company 6901 Rockledge Dr. Suite 500 Bethesda, MD 20817 Bus. 301 214-6765 Cell. 301 379-3648 nhenderson@ft.newyorklife.com

Long-term care insurance may help make the golden years more golden

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Having a “rainy day” fund, whether large or small, may help you prepare for many of life’s “what ifs”. After all, unexpected expenses can come in numerous forms and at any time. For many of us, needing long-term care may be a natural part of living a long life. Without long-term care insurance, that possibility may translate into a need to save for that what if. Long-term care insurance may help you enjoy more of your money, making the golden years more golden. By reducing the need for a long-term care rainy day fund, you may have greater freedom to spend more on the people and things that matter most to you such as your family, your travel plans, and your favorite pastimes.

The math is pretty simple too; the cost of long-term care insurance may be a small portion of what care services may cost out of pocket.

For more information about the many benefits of long-term care insurance, contact Naola Henderson, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company at 301/379-3648.

The purpose of this material is solicitation of insurance. An insurance Agent may contact you. Long-term care insurance insured by New York Life Insurance Company is issued on policy form series ILTC-5000and INH-5000 with a state identifier, where applicable and edition date. These policies may have exclusions and limitations.

Protecting Your Children Through Insurance By Tara Pannell, WJ Publisher

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e never think about things until we really need them. Insurance is something that people don’t like to talk about. For some people insurance is a taboo topic; they’ll discuss it, but secretly they never obtain an insurance policy because they believe that it’s going to cause them bad luck. They think that if they get life insurance, it’ll make them die so they never get coverage on themselves; they don’t cover their children and they don’t say anything out loud. These are secret superstitions that people really have. When in actuality, superstitions are causing them to be unprepared and leaving their families devastated and in a worse mess and doing something to them that they would’ve never of done.

We love our children and we want our children to have the best.

We would never leave our love ones with nothing if we knew that we were leaving them with debt and despair and even worries of trying to figure out how they’re going to bury us. I’m sure we would do something different, so one of the things that we could do differently is we can be prepared by having long-term health care. Being prepared by having long- term healthcare is the difference between your kids trying to take care of you at home and you being able to be in a very nice facility and being cared for properly. Not that your children would not want to take care of you properly, but your children may not be equipped to handle the things that happen to you if you’re incapacitated. If you become incapacitated, your kids are not going to know what to do when they’re going to be emotionally devastated. They have their lives going on, they have jobs, they have careers. If you knew that, you would laugh at insurance being a taboo topic. Some people almost feel that by getting insurance it will bring some bad luck, but that’s exactly untrue. Getting insurance is not going to bring you bad luck. Getting insurance is just being organized.

My mom was a very active woman. We never thought in one million years she would be the one to get sick. I love my mom with all my heart and there’s nothing that I wouldn’t do for her. She fell ill, and I quit my job to take care of her. I found out a lot of things about people who said they would help. I found out a lot about Medicare and Medicaid. Medicaid is for people who are completely destitute.

Medicare is for people who are workers. People who have worked throughout their career and throughout their time and then they

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get their pension. However the cost of facilities when you’re incapacitated may surpass what Medicare will pay because there are different levels of incapacity. You may have a stroke or heart attack and need disability insurance and cannot do everything that you used to do, but you may not be completely incapacitated. So the different levels of disability create problems when it comes to getting the care and service that you would need such as covering a nursing home. A long-term care plan may be very helpful for you or your loved ones. We have all met people who are caring for their parents and I did it myself. I cared for my mom for almost 10 years.

Her Alzheimer’s continued to get worse and worse, and I got to the point where I was no longer able to care for her. I had to give up my career and a lot of my then lifestyle to care for my mom because she required 24-hour-a-day care. She did not have a long-term care plan in place. I could not make up the difference to pay for the type of facility that she needed.

The services can sometimes cost up to $6000 per month. Your Medicare coverage and pension may only come up to two-thirds’s of that so there may be, in most cases for Medicare patients, a $15,000 gap annually in the ability to pay for the services. If you were destitute, Medicaid would take care of your costs 100%. However, if you have spent your time working and you were going to cash in on your Social Security disability benefits, the cost of services may exceed the actual cash that you have coming in. Many families find themselves depleting savings and other accounts attempting to pay for managed-care nursing homes, in- home nurses or other adult day care services that they did not plan for or think that they would ever need. Yes, so it is best to be sure that you have some sort of a backup plan in place so that you are not becoming a burden or hardship to your children or family.

Nobody knows if they’re going to have a stroke or heart attack or what else may happen to us so having a backup plan or plan B is always a good thing. Consider contacting your insurance representative. Some of our contributors have stories as compelling as mine who are empathetic to your situation and have the expertise and professionalism to help you decide what you type of insurance you need and how much.

Don’t let an old taboo ruin the lives of those you love and derail the possibilities of your own future.

WJ

BUSINESS

Ridley Wealth Strategies

7815 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770

D. Ridley

301-982-0014 (Office) dridley@ridleywealthstrategies.com (Email) www.ridleywealthstrategies.com

Open Enrollment and Maximizing Your Employee Benefits

Prevent Your 401k From Going To A 201k! hen the 2008 financial crisis came along, many people saw their 401k investment balances drop 20%-50% in 3 months. That financial crisis was unprecedented, our financial system was in jeopardy of collapsing and the economic recovery has been slow ever since. Many investors had their retirement dates delayed because of the decrease in account value or thier retirement has started prematurely because of downsizing by their employer. So what have you done differently as an investor to prevent another 20% -50% decrease in your 401k? A decrease of 50% can take 5-7 years for your portfolio to recover. Most 401k participants are not aware that there are two types of investment philosophies; Buy and Hold/Passive Investment management and Active Investment management. The Passive Investment strategy holds investments in up and down trending markets. Often times the exposure to up and down trending markets exposes them to too much volatility and investors often sell their investments and move to a cash position because they’re no longer comfortable, which may prevent them from earning positive returns. Active Investment management, on the other hand, creates a set of rules for when to buy investments and move out of investments if or when they decrease by certain percentages. This allows investors to match their portfolio with the amount of volatility they are willing to experience. Consider meeting with an Investment Advisor that can help you create an investment strategy that will define a maximum drawdown you’re willing to experience in your portfolio so that you can sleep better at night. When an investor is able to stay within their investment comfort level, they are more likely to stay invested which gives them the higher probability to generate a positive investment return. As you approach your retirement timeframe it will be helpful to minimize your risk so your principal can recover faster from a stock market decrease.

How Much Should You Contribute to your 401k?

You may often hear that an investor should invest at least what their company matches in their 401k plan which averages anywhere from 3-6% of an individual’s salary. When incorporating how much

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of a lump sum an investor has to accumulate in order to withdraw their retirement income, investing 3%6% of your salary may not accumulate the lump sum needed to withdrawal a retirement income that can continue to you match your retirement lifestyle. You also have to consider other income streams you’ll receive in retirement and at what age. Receiving pension income is not as certain as it was 20 years ago. With a lot of state, city, and corporate pensions underfunded there is a risk of pension cuts occurring in order for them to continue, contributing the right amount to your 401k is even more important.

People have relied on social security and pensions in the past as primary retirement income streams but as the Baby Boomer population retires they put financial stress on those systems to continue to pay out. Contributing more to your 401k can make a difference as this illustration can reflect; • An individual age 50, grossing $100,000 salary, has a 15 year goal until retirement, averages net 6% on investments, and 4% withdrawal rate in retirement; • @6% ($6,000) of salary/year – $146,136 in 15 years, $487/month in retirement • @10% ($10,000) of salary/year - $243,463 in 15 years, $811/month in retirement • @ maximum contribution of $22,500/year - $548,011, $1,826/month in retirement There are significant tax benefits that are possible by making large contributions that can lower your income taxes and make more cash flow available. Consult with a Financial Planner and Investment Advisor to find how much you need to contribute to satisfy your income needs and the tax benefit you’ll receive.

Small Business Owners Can save the Most Business owners are the backbone of the US economy and they enjoy many tax deductions for deploying products, services, employment, and capital into the economy. One of the major tax benefits small business owners can receive is investing towards their own retirement since they are solely responsible for, and cannot depend on another entity for their retirement needs. Business owners have the ability to transfer a percentage of their business profits to further diversify the wealth their business is generating. They can contribute anywhere from $52,000 to $267,000/year depending

on the amount of employees and the business entity. As a business owner, it’s important to work with an Investment Advisor to determine risk tolerance, retirement goals, and suitable investment strategies. Working with a Financial Planner/Investment Advisor can also help identify which vehicles make the most sense.

As an investment vehicle for either an employee or business owner, a 401k is a proven way to gain significant retirement income. Because of a myriad of choices, working working with a professional can optimize returns, minimize fears all the while putting money to work for you.

Call: 301-244-6122

www.investingwithrwspresents.com

Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ BUSINESS

By The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys Compliments of Attorney Colleen Sinclair Prosser

SINCLAIRPROSSER LAW, LLC

Family Incentive Trust is Alternative to Disinheriting

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ecent headline news reported that actor Philip Seymour Hoffman left his entire estate to his girlfriend and nothing to his three young children, therefore disinheriting them. It is reported that he did not want to create “trust fund kids”, or kids that live off a trust and never have to earn a living for themselves. Though Mr. Hoffman’s planning, there is no provision for financial support should his childrens’ circumstances change in the future.

If you are concerned about your children living off an inheritance they may receive from you, there are other ways to promote responsible financial lifestyles without disinheriting them. One way is to set up a Family Incentive Trust. This type of trust can provide for the basic needs of your family, such as health, education, maintenance and support for under age children. Over and above basic needs for young children, a Family Incentive Trust can promote success within your family and reinforce the values that matter to you.

Communicating your trust provisions that ensure your family values to both the trustee and the beneficiaries is essential for the success of the Family Incentive Trust. With understanding, the intentions and restrictions of the trust will be greater realized. The trust should be presented as a reward to the beneficiaries, rather than a form of punishment or control.

The Family Incentive Trust could also provide specific instructions on how to pay for a child’s undergraduate education. An example of this would be a stipulation that a child’s educational expenses can be paid from the trust if the child is a full-time student maintaining a certain grade point average. Graduate studies and trade school expenses can also be provided for in the trust. If you, the Trustor, wants to promote certain types of careers such as an architect, engineer, doctor or a lawyer, then you may include specific provisions in the Family Incentive Trust on how to pay for advanced degrees.

Once the child is employed and earning a living, then the Family Incentive Trust can provide that the trust matches the income or a portion of the income of the child. This is an effective strategy for parents who worry that their children lack a work ethic because they have grown up with money. You may want to pro-

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By Attorney Colleen Sinclair Prosser

vide incentives to children who choose careers in the public sector such as a teacher, police officer or fire fighter. For instance, the trust could supplement the income of those beneficiaries to a greater extent.

Other examples of how a Family Incentive Trust could work would be to match whatever a child has saved toward a down payment on a home, or fund a retirement plan for a child. If a child is caring for another family member such as a young child or an elderly parent, and is unable to work, then distributions can be made from the trust fund to provide income or pay for respite care for the child providing the care.

Promoting philanthropy may be important to you and is another way a Family Incentive Trust can be used. If a child wants to contribute to a charitable organization, then guidelines can be laid out in the trust as to how trust funds can be used for this purpose.

You could also structure the Family Incentive Trust to act as a bank and make loans to a child under reasonable terms, or to assist the child in starting a business. The possibilities are endless.

Disinheriting your children is a drastic measure to ensure that they become socially responsible adults. A Family Incentive Trust can be used to promote and encourage your family values and give rewards if your children become contributing and productive members of our society.

A qualified estate planning attorney can assist you in setting up a Family Incentive Trust that carries on your family values through the generations to come.

OUR OFFICES BOWIE ANNAPOLIS 900 Bestgate Road, 14300 Gallant Fox Lane, Suite 204 Suite 103 Bowie, MD 20715 Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: (301) 970-8080 Phone: (410) 573-4818 Fax: (410) 573-2802 Fax: (410) 573-2802 WALDORF MILLERSVILLE Waldorf Business 8530 Veterans Highway Suites, LLC 2nd floor 3195 Old Washington Rd, Millersville, MD 21108 Suit 102 Phone: (410) 573-4818 Waldorf, MD 20601 Phone: 800-366-4615 Fax: (410) 573-2802

JANUARY 2015

SEMINAR SCHEDULE ANNAPOLIS Tuesday, January 13th 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

(Refreshments) Double Tree Hotel Annapolis 210 Holiday Court

PASADENA Wednesday, January14th 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.

(Continental Breakfast) The Reserve at Two Rivers 4105 Mountain Road

MILLERSVILLE Thursday, January 15th 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

(Refreshments) The Firemark Building 8684 Veterans Hwy., 4th floor

Edgewater

Friday, January 16th 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.

(Continental Breakfast) Historic London Town & Gardens Pavilion 839 Londontown Road

BOWIE Saturday, January 17th 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.

(Continental Breakfast) Comfort Inn US 50, US 301 @ MD 3

WJ

BUSINESS

BOOK ONLINE OR CALL

(301)880-3231

Green Family Travel

www.greenfamilytravel.com

Specializing in Group travel, Destination Weddings and Land Tours by Maleka Green

Waldorf, MD 20601

CHINA ALASKA

DESTIN, FL

PUNTA CANA MEXICO

HAWAII

you deserve to get away don’t let money hold you back

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e’ve all been told, the “recession is over but boy does my pocket book still feel like I’m in it”, one of my clients said to me last week. “I concur” I replied laughing. But it did get me to thinking that he was right things are still tight for many reasons. We may be employed, we may have some money in the bank, and we may have 6 months of emergency money stashed away; but do we have extra money? That’s what’s missing our extra cash, our play money.

That money used for things that bring us joy and happiness. Things that make us smile, opportunities that allow us to bring happiness and pleasure to someone else. Things and places that illuminate our children’s faces. I know that’s surely what’s missing for me.

As I was completing the call with my client who was planning his family’s 10 day trip to Belize for 2016 he read out his credit card number to me and said “remember to take $175 every two weeks on time. Don’t wait Maleka, because we really want to go on this vacation. I haven’t been anywhere in the last 4 years and I deserve this. So don’t let me get in my own way.” “Okay Doug, I completely understand I’ll set it up automatically”.

Doug is like each one of us, longing for something he works 50+ hours a week for, but gets perpetually disrupted when a road block comes in and derails us in the guise of an emergency; a car engine blows out, a tooth chip not cover 100% by insurance, a busted pipe at our home and the plumber charges an arm and a leg. The list goes on and on throughout the year. There’s always something that gets into that emergency stash of cash saved away. That was our pleasure money our extra cash for something we wanted to bring us happiness.

Because this was a constant I saw time and time again I wanted to help be a solution to the problems plaguing people who wanted and needed a getaway. At Green Family Travel we offer payment plans as far out as 16 – 18 months in advance and as low as $100 bi-weekly to help you go on the vacation you want without all the stress involved with figuring out the money. This way the vacations are secure even if an emergency appears out of nowhere. We offer gift certificates that can be used for future trips of your choice. Often customers will use tax return refunds to purchase gift certificates for future use. This way they have time to plan and decide where they’d like to travel here in the states or an experience aboard.

At Green Family Travel we enjoy helping create memorable moments for immediate plans or future travel trips. The Disney experience is one that we carry out for clients quite frequently. The experience of a lifetime for kids young and old is magical when you arrive and all you have to do is enjoy each other and have fun. Because everything was taken care of well in advance, imagine arriving at the hotel or at the

cruise ship and feeling your shoulders begin to ease from the tense state they were in. See the smile and joy as your families eyes dance with excitement. You had the good sense to call Green Family Travel and say “charge my credit card every two weeks until it’s paid for.” Now you’re the hero! It feels good doesn’t it? And as you begin your vacation you’ll appreciate just how easy it all was…why haven’t you done this sooner.

There are plenty of ways to remind yourself we are no longer in a recession call Green Family Travel let us help you find a way to make the money you have work for you. We are experts in helping everyone afford the vacation of their dreams (however big or small). We just want to make certain you start living again. The winter’s fast approaching but that does not mean you have to buckle down and stay in. Get out, start planning, and take a trip. We’re just a phone call or mouse click away and we can’t wait to meet you.

GREEN FAMILY TRAVEL 301-880-3231.

Pride 6 Night Bahamas

from $329 Brochure price $1,804.

Save up to 82% off brochure price!

Ship Name: Carnival Pride Sailing Date(s): Nov 2015, Dec 2015, Feb 2016 Ports of Call: Departs From Baltimore, Maryland visiting Nassau, Bahamas Freeport, Grand Bahamas Island Staterooms: Interior Ocean view, Balcony Suite Prices From: $329 $55 Per Night!

Give Yourself or Someone a Gift that will be Remembered for a Lifetime! Gift Certificates Available $150 and Up Winter 2014 - 2015

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Prevent Theft From Being the Story of Your Vacation with These Security Tips

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journal

Professional Connections Section ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Annapolis Integrative Medicine (410) 266-3613 Alan Weiss, M.D. 1819 Bay Ridge Ave., Suite 200 Annapolis, MD 21403 BEAUTY Max & Co. Salon & Hair Loss Center (410) 602-3930 Maxine Dyett 605 Reisterstown Rd. Pikesville, MD 21208 ULTA Beauty (410) 527-9960 118 Shawan Rd. Cockeysville, MD 21030 CATERING/PERSONAL CHEF Go Cook Vegan (301) 887-7901 www.gocookvegan.com CYBER SECURITY Med Cyber-Security, LLC (301) 266-2457 Rob Campbell, MSCS, BSET, Security+, HIT www.medcybersecurity.com DENTAL Dr. Peter & Michelle Merai, D.D.S. (301) 567-9844 6188 Oxon Hill Rd., Suite 410 Oxon Hill, MD 20745

EYE CARE Envision Eye & Laser Center (301) 805-4664 Dr. Renee Bovelle, M.D. 12200 Annapolis Rd., Suite 116 Glenn Dale, MD 20769 FINANCIAL Ridley Wealth Strategies (301) 982-0014 Damon Ridley 7815 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770 FUNERAL SERVICES Wiseman Funeral Home & Chapel (301) 899-2005 Michelle Reese-Wiseman 7531 Old Alexandria Ferry Rd. Clinton, MD 20735 HEALTH COACHING Healthy By Choice DC (757) 303-5700 Melanie Edwards www.healthybychoicedc.com LEGAL Sinclair Prosser Law, LLC (301) 970-8080 Colleen Sinclair Prosser 14300 Gallant Fox La., Suite 204 Bowie, MD 20715 PEDIATRICS Frederick Corder, MD FAAP Bowie, MD (301) 805-2229 Cheverly, MD (301) 341-7494

Loving Care Pediatrics (301) 403-8808 Dr. Janet Johnson, M.D. 3311 Toledo Terrace, Suite C-201 Hyattsville, MD 20782 SPAS Adoro Medical Spa (410) 647-0123 Elba M. Pacheco, M.D. www.myeyelids.com Massage Envy Spa – Bowie (301) 364-3400 9300 Woodmore Center Dr., Suite 501 Lanham, MD 20706 Massage Envy Spa – College Park (301) 313-0555 10260 Baltimore Ave. College Park, MD 20740 Massage Envy Spa – Pikesville (410) 580-0505 3755 Old Court Rd. Baltimore, MD 21208 WOMEN”S HEALTH Women’s Wellness Center (443) 380-0060 Chetanna Okasi, M.D. 9501 Old Annapolis Rd., Suite 305 Ellicott City, MD 21042 Winter 2014 - 2015

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WJ COMMUNITY Website: www.lanadawilliams.com

1-888-577-6550

Lanada Williams, MA, NCC, LPC,LCPC

Host of “The Lanada Williams Show” aired Tuesdays 6-7pm on Blis.fm

A Parent Guide for Understanding School-Based Counselors

T

oday’s school counselors need to assess their multicultural counseling competence to ensure that the best practice based evidence and culturally relative interventions are taking place in the school. School counselors’ span of practice embraces a more comprehensive role in the mental well-being of today’s students. Today’s students come Lanada Williams from multiple cultures and have diverse backgrounds; often times mental health issues intersect with cultural identity.

According to Sue et al. (1998), multicultural competence has been referred to as a counselor’s attitudes/beliefs, knowledge, and skills in working with ethnically and culturally diverse persons. Considering the increasingly diverse composition of our school populations, the multicultural counseling competence of school counselors has received increased attention in the counseling literature over the last decade (as cited in Carey, Reinat, & Fontes, 1990; Lee, 1995). The need for counselors in training to use interventions and cross-cultural interventions is needed. Multicultural counseling competence (MCC) has served as a theoretical framework for multicultural training (Holcomb-McCoy & Myers, 1999). Constantine and Yeh (2001) reported research findings that have indicated school counselors of color may have higher levels of multicultural

counseling competence because of the personal experiences as racial/ethnic minorities in the United States.

Students are displaying serious mental health issues (e.g., anxiety, depression) within school settings, and there is a need to have concise interventions and case formulations to decrease further pathology. With a growing concern for the mental health needs of school-based children and adolescents that is coupled with limited access to resources, school counselors’ understanding and assessment of multicultural competence is important.

The scope of practice for school counselors has expanded but the need for community counseling has only increase.

To assist your child, schedule an appointment with our office.

You don’t have to be a school counselor to become a strong advocate for your child. If you would like to learn more skills for supporting your child’s mental health development in school ask yourself.

If your child is experiencing the following: • Over sleeping on school days • Excessively tardy • Becomes anxious when thinks about school • Cries when left at school • Leaves the classroom during the school day • Low attention span and can’t focus References available upon request

Why Should You Advertise Your Business In The

Women’s Journal ?

“The Women’s Journals have been the single most effective media for our demographic, females age 25-65.

The Return on Investment is VERY, VERY high and I highly encourage you to try them.”

Dr. Jonathan Calure, Maryland Vein Professionals “I am very pleased with the results. I got seven new clients the very first week.

I felt famous in my community. The Women’s Journal helped me to realize my life long dream of owning a successful business.”

Chef K. Blair, Cuisine Liberte

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“A priceless educational vehicle to allow patients quality, objective information about our various procedures.”

Andrejs V. Strauss, M.D., Director of Oncology, Beebe Medical Center “People show up with the coupon from the paper, and they are ready to buy.

My editorial get’s a lot of attention and it works. I am happy.”

Anita Hampton, Hair Fantasy “Outstanding readership and patient response to our articles.”

Richard J. McCann, D.M.D., P.A.

“Without question, an outstanding way to educate patients.”

Vincent Perrotta , M.D., Peninsula Plastic Surgery

“The best customer response our company has ever had from advertising.”

Joan Carrero, Director of Marketing, NASE Insurance

“The test coverage on editorials is worth something above and beyond regular advertising.”

P.J. Boatwright, V.P., Custom Projects for Fortune Group

“I receive mire new patients from my orthopedic surgery articles than from any other medium other than direct referral.”

Norman Marion, M.D., Chief of Orthopedic Surgery, Warren Hospital

“I have gotten more response with the Women’s Journal than any other publication that I have ever advertised in.”

Wayne Campbell, CRW Electric, Inc.

“GHR received a new agent, a new sale at $600k and a potential buyer. I couldn’t be more pleased. Thank you.”

Maleka Green, Owner of Green Home Realty

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WJ

COMMUNITY

Parents: How to Assist Your Teen in Achieving Career Success

Parents play a major role in how our teens view work. Our subliminal messages shape their attitudes and behaviors. In fact, parents’ attitudes matter more than anyone else’s because we influence our teens’ values. They look to us, listen to us, and watch how we handle issues.

To make your teen’s introduction to the world of work positive, model the desired values and behavior yourself. Provide the support and resources to get started on the path of success. This will lead to inner satisfaction and eventual career success.

Start by taking these three action steps: • • •

• •

Doug Brooks 10903 Indian Head Hwy Ste 305, Fort Washington, MD 20744

(301)292-8100

dougbrooks@allstate.com

•

Increase Self-awareness Help teens identify “who they are” and “how they fit” into the world of work.

Source tools to give them a sense of their career interests, behavior, attitudes, and skills.

Many resources will make them more aware of skills, interests, work values, and personal traits so they can identify options compatible with their personality.

Identify Resources Creatively identify ways to gain in-depth information on interests to be seriously considered for careers.

Encourage your teen to engage in activities that provide information about these career interests. These include studying job opportunities, requirements, and their components.

Doing this will increase your teen’s chance of making the right career choice.

Stay Engaged and Be Encouraging • Be present, pleasant, and productive while staying connected to this stage in your teen’s life.

• Actively listen to your teen’s views, reasons, fears, and obstacles. Ask clarifying questions, such as, “Is this what you are saying” or “Would you say more about that?” However, don’t lose sight of your teen’s need to think for himself or herself.

Take these steps to help you guide your teen through the thinking process while evaluating important behaviors and beliefs.

Caressence Therapeutics. LLC Your Pain Management Specialist

7211 Hanover Parkway, Suite D Greenbelt MD 20770

Phone: 202-689-4585

E-mail: caressencetm@gmail.com

www.caressencetm.com

About the Author

Naomi Vernon specifically introduces teens to the job search process, so they can build confidence while learning the skills needed to secure employment. She helps increase their awareness of the working world and inspires them to go after their dreams. Vernon’s three adult children – now successful professionals in the criminal justice filed – are living proof of her guidance and influence.

Email the Author at info@newbeeginnings.com to participate in a future webinar.

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WJ COMMUNITY

Seasons Greetings from the Wiseman Funeral Home & Chapel

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wjwomen.com

We have had a wonderful season and we are growing our team of professional chefs.

Take a Cooking Class ...It’s Fun!

GoCooK

VEGAN Email your resume to

register@gocookvegan.com

WJ EVENTS

“Pink Dreams Fund” Fundraiser Christmas Party & Networking Event

is sponsoring a Fundraiser for Tara Pannell Friday, December 12, 2014 from 5:30 - 9:00 pm

Professional Music by Cellist, Mr. Benjamin Gates Join us for a Festive Evening of Food, Music, Shopping and Networking The Atrium, 8181 Professional Place, Hyattsville, MD Professional and Family Photos by Patricia’s Professional Photos Prebook for special rates email pmcdougall6@gmail.com www.patriciamcdougallphotos.com/Portraits Purchase tickets on Eventbrite

http://www.eventbrite.com/e/pink-dreams-fundraiser-for-tara-pannell-tickets-14622477223?aff=efbevent

$35 individual $50 per couple

$24.00 Early Purchase by December 5, 2014 and Enter to win a Gourmet Meal for 2 with Chef Serge Pembo Proceeds from the fundraiser will assist with out-of-pocket expenses for cancer treatment

Our Host Committee

Renee “Starlynn” Allen, The People’s EMCEE Lance London, CEO of Carolina Kitchen Michael Walton, Founder of the Michael Walton Foundation Christie Cook, Publisher of the Chesterfield Woman Rudy Coleman & Chris Seymour Rudy Coleman, SBA CORE Business Development Consultant Jo M. Glasco; P.C. Chris Seymour, Real Estate Developer Caryn Bailey, President Cornerstone Heritage Group Pamela Green, Professional Speaker, Published Author Vern Goff, President Emerald City Communications For Sponsor & Vendor Opportunities email pinkdreamschristmasfundraiser@gmail.com 38

wjwomen.com

GoCooKVEGAN 301-887-7901 Kale the

Super Vegetable

By Tara Pannell

Kale, also known as the “super vegetable”, is filling and low in calories. Eating kale benefits you in several ways. Kale will give you the most nutrients in the fewest calories, which will aid in maintaining a healthy weight.

If kale is a new taste for you, there are several easy ways to incorporate kale into your diet on a regular basis. You only need a small serving of kale to get a lot of nutritional benefits. A cup of kale contains over 20% of the daily recommended amounts of vitamins A and C. Kale is also a good source of dietary fiber, protein, thiamin, riboflavin, foliate, iron, magnesium and phosphorus, and a very good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, calcium, potassium, copper and manganese.

Here are some of the nutritional facts about kale based on a 2,000 calorie diet.* Raw Kale is only 33 calories (based on 1 cup). If changing your diet to improve your health is the goal, kale is a winner with both zero fat and cholesterol—Vitamin A 206%, Vitamin C 134%, Calcium 9% and Iron 6%. Additionally, kale is almost a complete protein with an amino acid score of 92% based on a 100 point scale.

Here are some easy ways to eat more kale.

• Eat it raw. But wash it first. Add fresh garlic, onions, avocado and red peppers to make a salad.

• Make a smoothie. Break off a handful, wash it, and combine with coconut water and fruits such as blueberries, bananas and pineapples.

• Add it to soups, stir- fry, or pasta dishes. You can add a bunch to almost any cooked meal.

• Sauté it on the stove top with garlic and olive oil. Add mushrooms, or beans for a hearty meal.

• Roast it in the oven for delicious kale chips. Hand toss freshly washed kale strips with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Arrange in single layers on a roasting pan. Roast in the oven at 275° for about 20 minutes until crisp, but not brown.

Recipe: Kale Salad (serves 2) Ingredients Chopped kale (2 cups) red bell pepper (2 tablespoons) Diced shallot (1 teaspoon) yellow bell pepper (2 tablespoons) Garlic clove (1/2) cranberries (2 teaspoons) Sea salt (to taste) Wash all vegetables, chop, add seasonings and toss slightly.

Refrigerate and serve.

If you enjoyed this nutritional information and recipe, sign-up for a healthy eating class with Go Cook Vegan www.gocookvegan.com.

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