Presented By: Michael J. Cronin

“Economists say that the great recession, the longest and deepest since World War II, ended months ago and the US economy is growing again. Growth is relative. That doesn’t mean sit and wait for things to improve. Rather retool for the economythat exists today.” ~ Rosalind Resnick, Entrepreneur Magazine.

As you review your company’s strategic plan and forecast for 2012, what can you do to ensure that your company will meet those objectives?  Ms. Resnick’s comment is absolutely on target, you can sit around and react to your environment, or you can retool your business objectives and take a proactive approach to succeed for 2012.

There are a number of strategic areas that may be worth focusing more time and effort on in your business as you begin to think about retooling:

First and foremost, revisit your strategic plan.  It is appropriate to focus on the 3-5 year horizon because you need to identify what you want to grow into. However, it is critical to focus on what your business needs to accomplish in the next 12 months. What are the critical success factors that your business needs to focus on in order to accomplish your forecast? Do your employees know what the 12-month plan looks like and do they know what they need to contribute in order for the plan to be successful? If you cannot answer ‘yes’ to any of these three questions, you are not ready for 2012.

Second, identify what is really working and set a plan in motion to maximize it. Capitalize on your strengths. What product or service is your top seller, and how do you get customers to buy more of it? How do you grow your customer base for that product or service? Knowing your core business strengths allows your organization to maximize on existing opportunities where your company is already excellent.

Third, try new and different things. After you have identified the core products and/or services of your business, look for new, out-of-the-box opportunities. Outside and uncontrollable distractions often cause us to pull in the reins and focus on what we have always done. Use these changing times to your benefit. Challenge yourself and your employees to look at every process, product line, service, and customer for new opportunities. You will be surprised what your team may find and suggest. At first pass an idea might seem outrageous, but outrageous could mean the difference between status quo and a new level of success.

The last thought to consider is leveraging your uniqueness. The business marketplace is becoming a sea of similarity. Your brand should communicate the value you bring to your customer – from the eyes of the customer. Your brand is not really about what you think you do. The brand you should be leveraging is what value your customers say you bring to the table. Find out what your customers really think and start spreading that unique message.

If you did not like the results you generated in 2011, you have two choices. You can continue on your current path and hope for different results, or you can set your objectives, maximize your strengths, honestly look for new opportunities, and incessantly market your brand with a voice that is meaningful to your customer.  Hope is never a successful strategy, but focused action is … what will make 2012 a successful year for your company?

Hope is never a successful strategy!

Michael J. Cronin founded ResTech Solutions, LLC in 2002 after 15 years in the corporate world. He has hands-on experience in a number of functional areas and has worked with both domestic and international organizations. ResTech Solutions prides itself on the development of practical, cost-effective programs for its clients. For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation, please contact Michael at (484) 883-2707 or mjcronin@restechsolutions.com.

By: Susan D’Alonzo Ament

It’s easy to get caught up in the magic of holidays in Delaware.  Everyone seems to be in a better mood, and all of the hustle and bustle – including shopping, parties, and visiting with loved ones – makes the cold weather a little easier to bear.

Of course, making merry has its price, as travel can be especially dangerous during this time of year.

Whether you are traveling locally or planning a trip to visit friends or family out of state, it’s important to take some extra precautions when driving during the holiday season.  To best avoid unpleasant situations like collisions, theft or more, follow these safety suggestions:

Perform routine maintenance. One of the easiest ways to avoid car mishaps is to drive a safe vehicle.  Check and rotate your tires, get a tune-up and have your oil changed regularly, at least every six months.  Keeping up with these tasks ensures that your vehicle will be in top driving condition for Delaware’s often-treacherous holiday weather.

Prepare for inclement weather. Due to the unpredictability of the East Coast’s weather conditions, it’s always a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle.  Emergency kits include items that can help signal others in times of distress, make minor repairs, or help keep you protected from excessive temperatures while stalled.  These kits can be purchased for as little as $30, or you can make your own.  Some items that you might want to include are blankets, water, road flares and tools.  For more ideas on what to include in your vehicle emergency kit, speak to your auto insurance agent or visit www.redcross.org

Drive defensively. Just as the old adage goes, sometimes the best offense is a good defense.  The lack of a sales tax draws more people into Delaware during the holiday season, which means the chances for collisions increase.  When driving, be on the lookout for erratic drivers, slippery roads, snowdrifts and other unusual conditions.  Never drive at speeds that would prevent you from taking necessary corrective actions, particularly in the evening when hazards are more difficult to see.  Also, keep your eyes on the road, as you never know what other drivers have had too much eggnog.

Don’t leave valuables in the car. When you travel, there’s a good chance that you’ll leave your vehicle unattended in places with which you’re unfamiliar.  In order to avoid holiday breakins, don’t leave valuables in your car, especially in clear view of anyone who walks by.  Many criminals take advantage of holiday shoppers’ generosity, and when your new purchases are visible, they make for a tempting target.  If you must leave items in the car, opt to put them in the trunk, away from prying eyes.

Give a copy of your itinerary to a friend. Whether you are headed out to the mall, a party or a relative’s house, let someone know where you are going and how you intend to get there.  In the event that you are in an accident, stranded or are incapacitated, your contact will know your intended route and be able to pass relevant information along to the authorities.

If you practice these safety suggestions and are still the unfortunate victim of an automobile accident this holiday season, don’t burden your holidays with the worry of how you’re going to handle the details.  Instead, contact our Personal Injury Attorneys who, together with their reliable staff, will guide you through the process.

Susan D’Alonzo Ament is a partner with Morris James LLP and has practiced for 28 years representing personal injury victims.  Over the years, Mrs. Ament has found that some women don’t understand the crucial need to have adequate automobile insurance coverage in the event of a serious accident.  Susan Ament educates women on these needs every day in her practice and in seminars that she presents throughout the year.

Presented By:
Frederick J. Dawson, ChFC, CLU

There is an undisputed fact in this world, and that is if you don’t control your money, your money will control you. If you are a “believer” in this old adage, then here is the first step in controlling your money.

Prepare a comprehensive list of all your expenses and how much you spend on each item.  In many circles, this is known as a budget. Here is an example of the items that you may need to include:

• Alimony payments Hobbies Health Insurance Premiums
• Food/Groceries Domestic Help Medical Expenses/co-pays
• Clothing Homeowner’s Insurance Allowances
• Utilities Yard/Pool Maintenance Child Care
• Phone Home Maintenance Education Expenses
• Cleaners Subscriptions 401K/IRA Contribution
• Auto Insurance Gifts/Birthdays Mortgage
• Auto Maintenance (gas/oil/repairs) Property Taxes Charge Cards
• Auto Payments Sales Taxes
• Entertainment Charitable Contributions
• Club Dues Tax Preparation
• Vacation Life Insurance Premiums
• Personal & Miscellaneous
• Other

Now total it all up!  As presumptuous as it may sound, if you continued this wonder system for the rest of your life, you would be amazed at how much financial discipline you would develop!

Now compare your “outgo” to your “income.” If you find that you’ve got “too much month left over”, (you run out of money too soon), then you now know where you need (and can) cut back. Additionally, you are now prepared to do some serious retirement planning!

32 years ago, my wife and I agreed to do this system. Louise has not missed one month all these years!  We are in control of our money….our money is not in control of us.  Everyone should do this! You NEED to do this! Begin today!

If you don’t control your money, your money WILL control YOU!

Fred Dawson, ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant), CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) has over 30 years of comprehensive wealth management experience.  He is Executive Vice President of Bassett, Brosius & Dawson, Inc. and a founding principal partner of the firm.  Successful women are prominent among Fred’s diverse domestic and international client base of professionals, retirees, professional musicians and business owners.  In 2008 Fred was cited by Delaware Today Magazine as one of Delaware’s Top Financial Advisors.  Criteria are not necessarily based on client satisfaction or advisor performance.  Fred received a State of Delaware Senate Tribute in 1999 for his “long and distinguished record of service to his community, his country, his state and his region.”

For more information or to schedule a complimentary, no obligation initial consultation contact Fred’s office at 302-999-9330 or fdawson@bbdinc.com.

• Bassett, Brosius & Dawson, Inc. is an Independent Registered Investment Advisory Firm with the State of Delaware.
• Securities Offered Through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC
• Any opinions are those of Fred Dawson and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James.

The results are in! You spoke, we listened! NAWBO members (and potential members) have stated that they are looking for programs with more substance…more value…giving more connections …to open more doors.

As a result, our 2012 programs were designed to add value to business owners of all levels.  Whether you are just opening your doors, or have been in business for years, finding valuable resources can be a challenge.

Here is just a small sample of what NAWBO Delaware is bringing to you:

First Fridays
Join NAWBO Delaware the 1st Friday of every month for a little “breakfast and business.”  Bring your business cards and some questions/topics regarding your business that you would like to discuss with your fellow women business owners and community experts.  This is a great time to learn from other women business owners.  SPACE IS LIMITED SO PLEASE REGISTER.

DATE: 12/2/11 • TIME: 9:00 – 10:00
TOPIC: Willie Wonka had the Chocolate Factory – and Cher Przelomski has the Planning Factory, come tour with us and be dazzled by her wonderful creations.
DATE: 1/6/12 • TIME: 9:00 – 10:00
TOPIC: Another New Year, Another Resolution – Jump Start Your New Year and discover “Why Engaging Your Customer is Critical!  How to Cost Effectively Get It Done; and How to Measure the Results” – Dave Yunghans , Philadelphia Regional Development Manager.  Constant Contact will deliver all the New Year Secrets.

Power of Partnership
Held monthly, these networking events connect women business owners with powerful decision makers throughout the region.

DATE: 12/15/11 • TIME: 2:00 – 4:00
TOPIC: Tis the Season of Giving – Join NAWBO Delaware’s Board of Directors, its Members, Sponsors and Partners as we nestle by the fireplace for holiday tea.  There will be music and song, with a “Special Holiday Performance” from the Board of Directors of NAWBO Delaware.
DATE: 1/26/12 • TIME : 12:00 – 1:30
TOPIC: Don’t let the Winter Climate “Blue Your Business” – It is time for a Caribbean Get-Away.  NAWBO Delaware Brings the Tropic to you.  Join us for a Caribbean Lunch, and get tips from the World Trade Center on how you can Export your Product and Services.

If you are not a member, please consider joining TODAY!
To register or for the complete list and descriptions of our events, please check our website: www.NAWBODelaware.org
NAWBO Delaware: 302.235.5757 info@nawbodelaware.org
NAWBO® National: 1.800.55.NAWBO
www.nawbo.org
national@nawbo.org

Connect With Us!

By: Dr. Salamat Hussain

It’s that time of year.  People are making their New Year’s resolutions.  For some, it’s the age-old resolution of weight loss.  For some, the goal is more exercise or less Facebook time.  Some have even committed themselves to reaching a professional goal with a career change.

Just like any New Year’s resolution, going back to school for a career change takes planning, hard work and dedication.

The decision to make a career change rarely happens out of the blue while someone is peacefully typing away on their computer at their job.  In the movies, we see the main character have an instant revelation to make a career change, open up a bakery and make delightful little cupcakes.
However, in the real world, it doesn’t happen that way!

Career changes usually take place in difficult situations.  Any employment section of a magazine or newspaper is read more often out of need and economical reasons than inspiration.  The desire to provide for a family, set an example for children, or a strong interest in a specific field can lead some to commit the time and hard work to make a career change.

Ready to Make a Career Change? Tossing around the idea of changing careers?  Start out with what may seem like an easy question – ask yourself why you really want to make a career change. Is it for economic reasons?  Are you seeking a lifelong career, not just a job?  Next, ask yourself if you can commit the time and hard work needed for a program.  Check to see how long the program is and if it has flexible class schedules that could allow you to continue with your current job and family responsibilities.

Amina Harley decided to make a career change and graduated from Dawn Career Institute’s Pharmacy Technician program.  For her, the decision came from her desire to make a future out of her career.

“I went to Dawn because I was working in customer service and I saw that there was no future there for me,” Harley says. “I wanted to get something out of life, and I always promised my grandmother that I would go and get more education.  I loved learning about medicine and how to help people.”

Getting Started: Like Harley, many adults who are returning to school or going to school to prepare for a better career want a specific type of education.  They are not in school to take unnecessary general education courses or to take in the “college experience.”  They need career-specific education that can give them the knowledge and skills they need to move into their future career quickly.  Many of Dawn Career Institute’s programs are designed to equip students with skills that are immediately applicable to their future career.  Look for a program that can give you the specialized career skills and knowledge you will need.  This can help you stay focused on your goal and give you the ability to reach it within a reasonable period of time.

Ready to Commit? For many working adults, making a career change takes a lot of hard work and a big commitment.  The best way to start is to make a plan and stick with it, but be prepared to take it in small steps and revise as you go along.  The first step is getting into the classroom and realizing everyone is in the same boat.  Celebrate your successes along the way, accept mistakes and take advantage of all the student and career services your school may offer.  They’re there to help you!  Don’t lose focus of your goal.  Making a career change is never easy.  Remember what Ralph Emerson famously said,

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”

Want To Learn More?
If you’re interested in a new career, Dawn Career Institute may have the right program for you.  Dawn Career Institute offers day and evening classes at its campus in Wilmington, Delaware, and online.  In programs that can be completed in as little as six months, you can learn the essentials to qualify for a job in one of these fast-growing professions. Dawn Career Institute offers job placement assistance to all its students, and financial aid is available to those who qualify.  Dawn Career Institute also offers the following programs: Esthetician (Skin Care Specialist), Massage Therapist, Personal Fitness Trainer, Medical Assistant, Medical and Dental Biller/Health Insurance Claims Examiner, Medical Administrative Specialist, Nurse Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Dental Assistant, and Legal Assistant.  Dawn Career Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

For more information, go to www.VisitDCI.com or call 1-800-495-8260.

About Dr. Salamat Hussain, Dean Of Academic Affairs at Dawn Career Institute.
Dr. Salamat Hussain is a physician originally from Bangladesh who holds a Master of Science degree in health services management from Argosy University. He has a long history in education as an instructor at Asher School of Business in Norcross, Ga., the dean of academic affairs at Brown Mackie College in Atlanta, Ga., and the director of education in Norfolk, Virginia.  Today, Dr. Hussain serves as the dean of academic affairs at Dawn Career Institute in Wilmington, Delaware.  Dr. Hussain is passionate about teaching, learning and student success. He is deeply committed to improving the lives of DCI students and believes learning truly is a lifelong process.

By: Clarice Kwasnieski

Director of Admissions, Saint Mark’s High School
ckwasnieski@stmarkshs.net

The joy and cheer of the Advent and Christmas seasons often inspire people to share their talents and time with others.  At Saint Mark’s High School, students enthusiastically join the wider community in this spirit of giving—

from the Stockings for Soldiers assembled by the girls’ soccer team to the hundreds of canned goods collected by Z-Club.  As Spartans, however, the call to service is not only heeded during the Christmas holiday, but approached as a yearlong commitment.

Saint Mark’s is a Diocesan Catholic high school that educates young men and women to be leaders of the church and the world whose faith in God and service to others model excellence, humility, and integrity.  As an integral part of the school’s mission, service at Saint Mark’s has a long tradition of excellence.  In fact, in 1985, Saint Mark’s became the first high school in the state to host a blood drive, and in 1983, Saint Mark’s pioneered Blue-Gold—a club that encourages meaningful relationships between high school students and local teenagers with intellectual disabilities.  With several service clubs on campus—including Key Club, an active Student Council, and National Honor Society—Saint Mark’s students continue to log thousands of volunteer hours each year.

“Our strongest asset is the commitment our students show toward loving their neighbor,” said Joan McConnell, who teaches Spanish and also moderates Key Club.  “Almost every organization on campus has a service component, whether it’s the football team washing dishes at West Presbyterian Church soup kitchen or Pax Christi working with the residents at the Mary Campbell Center.  All of our clubs not only give students the opportunity to make a difference in the community, but to also show their love of God through service to their neighbor,” she continued.

Saint Mark’s High School exists not just to provide outstanding academic and co-curricular programs, but to form young adults into disciples of Christ—disciples who hear and respond to Christ’s call to transform their lives and, ultimately, the world. Just as Saint Mark’s students respond to the call of service, Spartan graduates also continue to follow the challenge Bishop Michael Hyle posed to the first graduating class: “Go forth from this school to create a better world, one more pleasing to God and more helpful to mankind.”

What Our Graduates Say:

“My time at Saint Mark’s grounded me in important values and beliefs that I still carry with me today.  I valued my time with Key Club, and I am thankful for the great opportunities that Saint Mark’s offered during my four years there.” ~ Autumn Lynch ‘05, intern at the U.S. Department of State in the Bureau of International Organization Affairs

“Saint Mark’s gave me a solid foundation.  It was important to me that I got a well-rounded education that not only integrated academics and sports, but that also included an emphasis on building the community.” ~ Bill Purcell ‘82, Associate Director of Catholic Social Tradition at the University of Notre Dame

“My time at Saint Mark’s and the truly excellent education I received there formed a strong foundation for my life as a scholar and as a person trying to live ethically in the world.” ~ Lisa Toccafondi Shutt ‘92, Director of Undergraduate Studies at the University of Virginia

By: Maggie Lage

While January marks the beginning of the New Year, it is also the halfway point in the school year.  With an eye on upcoming report cards and concern over tough new standards for grade advancement, many parents are now looking outside of regular classrooms for extra tutoring their children may need.

Determining which tutoring service is best for each particular child can be difficult.  Because children learn in very different ways, parents need to be assured that the tutoring approach matches their child’s learning style.  Parents should also be confident that the curriculum and instructional methods complements and support what is expected in the classroom.  Finally, parents want to select the best service from an increasingly crowded field – preferably one with certified teachers, years of experience, and customized instruction.

Questions for Every Parent to Keepin Mind

• What are the qualifications of the tutors? Are they certified teachers? How much experience do they have in subject matter and pedagogical approaches?
• What is the track record of the supplemental education services organization?  Can they provide references of other parents and children who have been helped by their services?  Can they document advances in achievement by students who have faced learning challenges similar to my child’s own challenges?
• What types of diagnostic services will be provided at the outset?  How will the organization pinpoint my child’s particular needs?
• Different children have very different learning styles (kinesthetic hands on, auditory, visual, etc).  How will the organization determine which learning style characterizes my child?  What experience and track record does the organization have in shaping its offerings to the learning style of my child?
• It’s no secret that parental and/or family involvement is critical to educational achievement, and that’s true for classroom learning and tutoring services alike.  How will the tutoring organization involve me in the process?  How will the organization report on my child’s progress?
• Because all reputable tutoring services should be designed to support what is learned and taught in the classroom (as opposed to competing with classroom lessons), how will the organization work with my child’s school?  Does the organization already have relationships with my child’s school?  With my child’s teachers?  How can I be sure that what’s happening at the tutoring center directly impacts my child’s progress in school?
• Recognizing that the most successful educational endeavors are spurred when children are excited about learning, how will the organization inspire and motivate my child?  What steps will the service take to help my child build confidence?
• How will the service reward my child’s progress?  Through prizes, or through encouragement for “a job well done”?  How comfortable am I with this approach?

Hear what parents are saying about Huntington
“Huntington really finds what works for the individual child.  Conventional subject tutoring never seemed to reach the problem.  Nick loved coming here because he felt supported and he loved the sense of accomplishment he gained.” ~ Maria C.

“I want to thank you all for helping Eric.  Seeing Eric’s reading level, and academic level, continue to improve and excel is just amazing!  His confidence and attitude has also improved.  He came home and opened his report card and was excited to see the remarks and he said, “Huntington is Paying Off”. Thanks again.” ~ Linda P.

“My son’s SAT score was way beyond our expectations!  We were very happy with the experience we had at Huntington.  We can’t thank you enough for all that you’ve done to prepare our son for college and beyond.” ~ Deborah A.

“I would recommend your program without hesitation.  There is no way Katie would have improved and received the score she got without the direction and instruction of the wonderful Huntington Learning Center teachers.  We attribute her numerous scholarship offers to her increased SAT score.” ~ Marybeth R.

Founded in 1977, Huntington Learning Center has offered supplemental education services longer than any other provider. Parents often contact Huntington when they receive a particularly alarming report card or other communication saying their child is falling behind. Many also reach out to Huntington because they are concerned their child may have poor study skills, or difficulty in performing to grade level in reading and math.

Maggie Lage is the Executive Director of the Huntington Learning Center in Newark

34 Liberty Plaza | Kirkwood Highway | Newark, DE 19711

For more information or to schedule a consultation at the Newark location

call 302-737-1150 or visit www.newark.huntingtonlearning.com

Looking for something fun and interesting to do in January?  Spend some time this winter learning from some of the region’s most fascinating people, through a special program hosted by the University of Delaware’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.

The South Coastal Lecture Series takes place on Wednesday mornings this January at the Delaware National Guard Training Facility in Bethany Beach.  Registration is open to everyone 50 years of age or older, and their spouses of any age.  Participants will select their lecture program from four history and humanities topic clusters.  Special highlights include:

The Navy at Cape Henlopen – Learn about U.S. Navy presence in the Lewes area from 1898 to 1996 from Capt. Bill Manthorpe (USN Ret.).

The Tuskegee Experiment – Delaware State Legislator and retired educator Don Blakey discusses the first African American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces.

Demagoguery in Politics – Hear former CNN world affairs correspondent Ralph Begleiter discuss how politicians appeal to voters’ emotions, prejudices and expectations through propaganda.

Ernest Hemingway – The Pulitzer and Nobel Prizewinning author through his four “best” novels: The Sun Also Rises, A Farewell to Arms, For Whom the Bell Tolls, and The Old Man and the Sea. Led by former actor/director Gary Ramage.

The Dutch and the Swedes in Colonial Delaware – Enjoy a brief survey of the arrival of the Dutch and Swedes in the Delaware Valley with history professor Mary Emily Miller.

Each Wednesday morning will feature two lectures, the first one beginning at 9 a.m., and the second at 10:30 a.m.  The registration fee for the full series is $50 per person.  For more information, call 302-645-4111 or visit www.lifelonglearning.udel.edu/lewes.

Registration will take place through December 12.  Registrations will continue to be accepted after December 12 based on availability.

The January lectures are a program of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in Lewes, which will also be holding spring classes beginning in February, in Lewes.  Highlights include basketry, art, history, literature, opera, jazz, spring birding, and an investment workshop.  A catalog will be available in December at www.lifelonglearning.udel.edu/lewes.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes at the University of Delaware are membership organizations that provide opportunities for adults 50 and over to learn, teach, and travel with their peers.  The only requirements for admission are interest in a continuing educational experience, support of the programs through participation, and a modest membership fee.  UD’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes are located in Wilmington, Dover, and Lewes.

For more information, visit
www.lifelonglearning.udel.edu.

By: Bobbie Hartz, Owner

Local senior care experts warn of winter dangers for seniors.

There is no better way to say it – it’s brutally cold across the Tri-state area.  While severe winter weather and plummeting temperatures mean little more than extra time scraping windshields and one more layer of clothes for most people, they are serious concerns for local seniors.

Care experts from Senior Helpers of New Castle County Delaware, a leading local in-home senior care provider, are urging families across the area to take extra precautions to ensure that senior loved ones and elderly family members are safe and secure during this extended stretch of cold weather.

Some basic physiological differences make seniors much more prone to health problems related to the cold.  Older adults have slower metabolisms, so their bodies don’t generate heat as quickly as younger people do to withstand colder environments.  Many seniors also suffer from poor circulation, meaning their bodies struggle to pump blood to their arms, legs, hands, and feet.  This makes them more easily susceptible to hypothermia, frostbite, and other common cold weather conditions.

“As we work with local seniors living on their own each day, we see the additional stress cold weather can bring,” said Bobbi Hartz with Senior Helpers.  “It is absolutely vital that families take precautions to keep seniors safe through the winter months because, many times, seniors simply don’t or can’t take the necessary steps on their own.”

The following is a list of ideas and precautions from Senior Helpers that every family with a senior loved one should consider as the worst of the winter weather sets in across the area.

Senior Helpers’ Winter Weather Prep List for New Castle County Families:

• Keep thermostat in senior’s home between 68 and 70 degrees – this may mean a small additional expense, but it’s a necessary one.
• Use electric space heaters – these are an economical way to heat a small space, such as a bedroom or den.  Use heaters with modern safety features, like an automatic shut-off.  Be sure to keep the heater at a safe distance from furniture, curtains, bedding, etc.
• Choose clothes wisely – dress for warmth during the day by layering loose-fitting, lightweight garments.  Tight clothes and long underwear can actually restrict blood flow if they do not fit correctly.
• Extra blankets on the bed – a helpful tip that works to trap warmth between layers.
• Mittens instead of gloves – mittens keep hands and fingers warmer than gloves because the fingers can touch each other, generating warmth.
• Eat plenty; eat right – Body heat is generated by burning calories.  Without a proper steady diet, a senior’s body can quickly run out of fuel.
• Check rubber tips on canes or walkers – If they are old and worn, these tips can become slippery on snow, ice or wet surfaces and cause slipping or falls.

“Taking a few extra minutes to check in on elderly neighbors and family members can make a huge difference,” Hartz said.  “As the mercury continues to fall, make sure senior loved ones on their own have all the help they need to stay safe, happy and healthy this winter.”

For more information contact Senior Helpers at 302.234.1274 or email leverette@seniorhelpers.com.
Visit us online at www.seniorhelpers.com

Here’s a sample of what some of our clients are saying about our services…

Lisa is the best thing that has happened to us in years.  Senior Helpers is golden in our book. ~ Ted – Wilmington, DE

My mom is pleased with Jennifer and has developed a good relationship with her.  They enjoy going out and keeping busy.  The simple things, like getting my mom’s hair washed and visiting friends, mean a lot when she can’t do it herself. ~ Leslie – Hockessin, DE

Debbie is a very companionable and compassionate caregiver.  She frequently initiates household maintenance activities without supervision.   Her sunny disposition, sense of humor, and excellent communication skills allow her to fit seamlessly into the family household. ~ Carole – Hockessin, DE

By: Jodi Briden, CHHC, AADP

You have likely heard the phrase “You are What You Eat,” but what does it really mean?

Anytime we eat or drink, our body works to digest and absorb the nutrients of our food, ultimately with the intention of providing us with the essential ingredients for energy, vitality, and good health.

Unfortunately, many of the choices available to us today do not promote good health.  Much of the foods found in grocery stores are filled with additives, preservatives, toxins, and chemicals in order to provide a longer shelf life (for the food, not us).  However, whole natural, life-giving foods will provide us with the nourishment we need to sustain long-term good health.

What are whole, natural, life-giving foods?

These are foods that are edible in their original state.  They can be eaten with minimal or no preparation and usually can be eaten raw.

So what might be a long-term sustainable way to ensure the foods you are eating, are providing the nutrients you need to be healthy?  Taking an “80/20” approach to food can provide a good health sustaining balance without feeling as if you are depriving yourself of the food you love.  The 80/20 approach means eating whole, natural, life-giving foods 80% of the time, allowing for the occasional indulgence.

Whole, natural foods include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts/seeds, and water.  They are not only nutrient dense, but also support the body in cleansing and detoxifying, as well as being naturally anti-inflammatory.

‘Eating a rainbow’ of vegetables and fruits every day, at every meal, with an emphasis on dark leafy greens, your diet will be filled with an abundance of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, fiber, and variety to keep you healthy and feeling good.  Fruits and vegetables are one of the most critical foods for maintaining good health.  Grains are also an important element of a healthy diet.  All grains when harvested are whole grains, meaning they have all of their original parts (germ, bran and endosperm).  Most packaged foods are often processed, stripped of their full nutritional benefits and are no longer a whole grain.  Some of the most common and readily available whole grains that are brown rice, millet, amaranth, barley, quinoa, oats, spelt, wheat, and rye.  These foods are some of the best sources of fiber and do not cause a blood sugar spike or drop like many processed and refined carbohydrates.

Nuts and seeds along with whole natural, healthy food choices, are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, healthy fat and provide some of the best plant sources of protein.  There are many varieties to choose from including: almonds, walnuts, coconut, cashews, pistachios, pine nuts, and brazil nuts.  Eating these raw and unsalted ensures you are receiving the greatest benefit.

Drinking water is one of the most critical sources of nourishment our bodies need to fully function.  Hydrating with other liquids does not provide the same kind of benefit.  By regularly replenishing the water in our body, especially when we first wake up, we are providing one of the most crucial elements for maintaining and restoring good health.

Consistently eating a diet of primarily whole natural foods, will leave you feeling good and being well.  If you have a chronic health condition, eating such a diet can help support the body’s natural ability to heal. The ancient words of Hippocrates: “Let medicine be thy food, and food be thy medicine,” still applies today.

Be sure to read next issue’s article from Your Wellness Partner for the primary ingredient to ensure your life of vitality and great health.

Testimonials:

“Working with Jodi to choose the right foods for me and my lifestyle not only made me feel better physically, it had a positive impact on my mood and concentration levels and the new practices helped me to significantly reduce my stress.” ~ MS, Philadelphia, PA

“Jodi has genuinely helped change my thinking and behavior surrounding food, health and wellness, not only for myself but my family as well.  She has been instrumental in encouraging me to set goals and ultimately achieve them.” ~ AL, Ellicott City, MD

Jodi Briden, owner of Your Wellness Partner, and a Certified Holistic Health Coach, provides customized holistic wellness programs for individuals and groups; coaching, supporting, and guiding clients to regain their health, heal chronic conditions & autoimmune diseases, and live a life of wellness, naturally.

www.yourwellnesspartner.org
267-975-6367