The Women's Journal A quarterly resource for women 2024-04-02T21:17:01Z https://thewomensjournal.com/feed/atom/ WordPress admin <![CDATA[People In Profile Second Quarter 2024]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34353 2024-03-27T15:51:00Z 2024-04-01T00:10:13Z

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(click on magazine above to view flip-thru version)

Alex DelCollo

Alex DelCollo is a financial advisor at Diamond State Financial Group, which is the largest independent wealth management firm in the state of Delaware. Since 1989, the firm has been committed to helping clients improve their long-term financial success. Alex specializes in working with nonprofit organizations and professionals, business owners, and individuals preparing for retirement. She believes in empowering people in pursuing their own goals and giving them the tools they need for success. 

Alex’s passion for helping others started in the nonprofit industry where she worked for 10 years prior to her career as an advisor. She worked to improve the food and nutritional security of local communities by building relationships with those directly impacted by the food landscape to fully understand their individual situation and needs. This led to her desire to continue to support nonprofit organizations in their pursuit of their mission. Alex’s time working as a community advocate also continues to influence how she interacts with her clients. She actively listens to client concerns and works with them to build a plan that they feel is achievable. As a firm, Diamond State Financial Group believes in the power of personal relationships and focuses on one thing – simplifying financial planning based on the needs of our clients.

Alex is the board president of the Salem County Inter Agency Council of Human Services and is an active member of the Delaware Veteran’s Post #1. In her spare time, Alex enjoys practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with her husband and spending time with her friends and family, including her 3 dogs and cat. 

Diamond State Financial Group     900 Prides Crossing, Newark, DE     302-366-0366     [email protected]

*Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC,  

a registered investment adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.  

 

Walter Sellers

With over 25 years of experience in the health and fitness industry, Walter is a seasoned professional dedicated to transforming lives through wellness. He is the founder of Classicman Fitness, which evolved into The Butterfly Effect Studio for Training during the pandemic. Walter holds certifications from ISSA, Action CPT, and Girls Gone Strong, and he takes pride in his passion for bodybuilding and powerlifting, holding the distinction of being a drug-free world record holder in powerlifting with WNPF.

Walter’s academic background includes a degree from Elon College. He also has over 15 years of experience in the retail automotive sector, where he honed his skills in sales, finance, and management. Transitioning into management consulting, he recognized the urgency of addressing America’s health crisis, which led him to redirect his expertise exclusively to the health and fitness realm.

Walter is deeply committed to personal and societal transformation, believing in the potential for profound change within each individual. Through his diverse professional journey and dedication to wellness advocacy, he strives to inspire others to achieve optimal health by emphasizing the importance of dedication and vision.

In addition to his work in the health and fitness industry, Walter is the creator of the “We Care A Ton” food drive, which aims to address food insecurity in local communities. He also founded the Metamorphosis Renewal Retreat, providing individuals with an immersive wellness experience focused on physical, mental, and emotional renewal.

As a passionate advocate for holistic well-being, Walter is driven by the belief that everyone has the power to shape their destiny through a commitment to health and fitness. He is honored to continue making a positive impact in the lives of others through his work, and he welcomes connections with like-minded professionals who share his passion for wellness and personal development.

The Butterfly Effect Studio for Training      302-278-4347      www.bestindelaware.com

 

Lida Alimorad, DDS

Lida Alimorad, DDS, is an AAPD board-certified pediatric dentist that completed her post-doctoral pediatric dentistry residency at Nemours Children’s Hospital in Wilmington, DE, where she served and worked with children with a wide variety of special medical and dental needs, including children with rare syndromes, and complex medical histories. In July 2023, she proudly opened Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry, a start-up pediatric dental practice in Pike Creek, DE, offering dental care to patients ranging in age from infants to young adults for routine dental care, emergencies, mild sedation and hospital dentistry. Dr Alimorad is inspired to build and grow the team at Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry and to provide outstanding pediatric dental services in the area.

Dr. Alimorad suffered from complex medical conditions in her late teen years that required hospitalization and intensive treatments, some of which resulted in dental complications. During this traumatic period of her life, she looked forward to regular visits by her kind and caring pediatric dentist. This motivated her to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry, and from her own experiences she understands and has empathy for patients with complex conditions and special needs.

Dr. Alimorad graduated in 2010 with a degree in General Dentistry from University of Maryland School of Dentistry in Baltimore, MD which is the oldest continuously operating dental school in the United States.  After graduating from dental school, Dr. Alimorad served as dental director for 8 years at CCI Health and Wellness Services, a nonprofit organization, where she and her staff treated the underserved, underinsured, and refugee populations in the Capital Region of Maryland. Dr. Alimorad completed her post-doctoral pediatric dentistry residency at Nemours Children’s Hospital in 2021 and stayed after graduating to work as an attending faculty at Nemours Dental Clinic. 

Dr. Alimorad loves traveling and being exposed to diverse cultures from all over the world, hiking, and gardening in her spare time.  

Schedule your appointment with Dr. Lida Alimorad at Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry by calling 302-933-9900 or visiting www.wpdde.com

 

Stephanie McClellan DNP, MBA, MSN, RN, CMSRN, NE-BC

Dr. Stephanie McClellan started her journey towards becoming a licensed Registered Nurse in 2008. Her passion and desire to make a difference in her community and in the lives of others pushed her to see this goal to fruition in 2010 as a graduate of Delaware Technical and Community College (DTCC). Achieving this goal was the beginning of finding ways to create change, facilitate growth, advance the profession of nursing, all while ensuring community members are able to receive care they need and deserve. Shortly into her tenure as a Registered Nurse, Stephanie went back to school to pursue a master’s degree in nursing with a concentration in Management and Leadership. Stephanie saw an opportunity to grow her own knowledge in the hopes of becoming able to lead and inspire new nurses and instill passion for the profession. During these same years, she filled adjunct positions as a clinical instructor at DTCC. Seeing nursing students thrive and become hungry to be the best possible nurse, fueled Stephanie’s heart for leadership. 

Her passion and enthusiasm have grown over the years. She believes in nursing practice and the power the profession has to change and amplify healthcare in a way where every person is provided the same opportunities for care and equal access. Through various nursing positions, she has remained devoted to advocacy, innovation, leadership, and empowerment across nursing. 

Stephanie holds a dual master’s degree in business administration and nursing leadership and management, both from Walden University. Stephanie received a Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a focus on visionary nursing leadership from Colorado Christian University and holds dual certifications: Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN) and Nurse Executive-Board Certified (NE-BC). Stephanie was nominated for AONL Young Professional Voices in 2022 and nominated in Delaware for Advancing and Leading the Profession in 2022. She is the current President of the Delaware Nurses Association. In addition to this role, she is the Cancer Institute Manager at Bayhealth Cancer Center and an Adjunct Professor for Biological Sciences at Delaware State University.  

[email protected]         302-744-6676

 

Jennifer Acord, APR

Jennifer Acord is the Director of Advancement at the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science. She joined the museum in 2015, and until March was Director of Communications.

The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science completed a major renovation and re-envisioning in 2022. Its new mission is to ignite a life-long passion for exploring, discovering, and valuing nature and science. In the new galleries, guests discover how nature connects us all through exploring dynamic and diverse ecosystems. Encouraging guests to explore and discover is a major part of the museum’s activities, whether it’s through exhibits, events, programs, or connecting with partnering organizations and scientists. Above the galleries are millions of scientific specimens serving as a record of biodiversity on Earth and as a resource for scientists all over the world. The museum’s scientists curate and maintain the collections and conduct research.

Jennifer’s role throughout the renovations and the museum’s reopening was to direct communications and marketing, publicize activities and programs, support the capital campaign, and work with the team on creating the new exhibits. As Director of Advancement, she leads the museum’s development, communications, and membership staff. A lifelong Delawarean, Jennifer has more than 25 years of experience in the communications field, including work at non-profit organizations, government agencies, and a Fortune 500 corporation. She has earned accreditation in public relations (APR) through the Public Relations Society of America.  

Beyond her official duties, Jennifer wears another hat – as the publicist for Dude, the museum’s beloved mascot, who recently celebrated his 16th birthday and 15th anniversary with the museum. Dude’s antics have not only charmed the local community but also captured the attention of the broader audience, going viral on platforms like TikTok and The Dodo, receiving a variety of media coverage, and bringing in visitors from all over the region. 

Learn more about the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science at delmns.org  

 

Thank You To Our Location

We would like to thank the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, located at 4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE for hosting our second quarter 2024 photoshoot. What a lovely place for a shoot, and a wonderful place to take your family for a day of nature, science, and adventure. Even the littlest ones will love it.

Their hours are 10:00 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays. Open hours may vary for special events and holidays. Find out more information go online to www.delmns.org.

 

 

 

 

 

To Our Stylist

I would also like to thank Lori Zaiss, Owner of Fusion Salon, and her wonderful team of stylist and makeup artists for providing hair and makeup for our shoot. As always it was a pleasure working with Fusion.

Fusion Salon   302-479-9444      www.FusionSalonDE.com     3444 Naamans Road, Wilmington, Delaware

 

Thank You To Our Photographer

I would like to thank Debra Zeccola of Debra Zeccola Photography of Newark, DE for being our photographer for our profiles and covers photoshoot. Debra has over 28 years of experience as a licensed professional photographer. Debra provides her clients with outstanding photography services for weddings and events, family and individual portraits, baby photos ,and so much more. Debra is a joy to work with, and I couldn’t ask for a more professional photographer than Debra.

Debra Zeccola Photography     302-540-5800

[email protected]      www.debrazeccolaphotography.com

 

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admin <![CDATA[How Can Delaware DSB Help You?]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34410 2024-04-02T21:17:01Z 2024-04-01T00:06:25Z

By Andrea Wojcik

Director of Communications Delaware DSB

Delaware is not just known for its picture-perfect landscapes and tax-friendly environment; it’s also home to a dedicated entity that plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth and empowering local entrepreneurs—the Delaware Division of Small Business.

What is the Delaware Division of Small Business?

The Division of Small Business (DSB) is a state agency within the Delaware Department of State, committed to supporting the development and success of small businesses across the state. The division acts as a resource for small business owners, and a catalyst for economic growth and innovation. As we like to say, we provide big support for small businesses. If you want to start or grow yours, contact us first!

An often-unknown fact is that the Division also oversees the State’s Office of Supplier Diversity and the Delaware Tourism office. Both of these entities are deeply connected to the small business community, and together, all the units of our division play an important role in the small business continuum.

DSB operates through a collaborative approach with entrepreneurs, industry stakeholders, and government agencies at all levels. We also actively seek feedback from the business community. This way, the division ensures that its programs and services align with the evolving needs of small businesses.

Here are just some of the programs and services DSB offers. All of our services are free.

1. Business Support

This is provided primarily through our four Regional Business Managers who are the front-line staff working directly with business owners. There is one each for Kent and Sussex Counties, and two for New Castle County – one for the southern half, and another for the City of Wilmington and the county’s northern area. Find yours at https://business.delaware.gov/#resource-managers.

Our Business Managers provide small business owners with someone they can direct all of their business-related questions to. If they can’t answer them, they can connect you with the right person or entity that can. Our dedicated team is amazing at meeting you where you are now and remaining connected to you throughout your small business journey – even if it lasts years!

2. Resource Access

Don’t know where to start? We can help. Don’t know what permits you need, or having trouble getting them signed off? We can help. Need a business plan or business license? We’ll connect you with one of our nearly 100 resource partners to get you going.

Our Business Managers are incredibly knowledgeable about the wealth of resources available to small business owners and know where to direct you. We provide information on funding opportunities, assistance programs, and training webinars to help you navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business. We also share information through our weekly newsletter. Sign up at business.delaware.gov! 

3. Financial Assistance Programs

We know that access to funding is one of the biggest needs for small business owners. DSB operates, or is involved with, several funding initiatives that small business owners can take advantage of. These programs include DSB’s flagship program – the EDGE grant competition, workforce training grants, and grants to help applied technology businesses bring their product to market by filling a gap between federal funding programs. 

Visit business.delaware.gov/incentives to learn more about these and other programs. We also share funding opportunities from our partners, federal agencies, and national foundations or companies.

4. Certification and Contracting Opportunities

Through our Office of Supplier Diversity, the Division assists small businesses in obtaining certifications that enhance their eligibility for government contracting opportunities, and open new avenues for growth, particularly for women, minority, veteran or individuals with disabilities-owned businesses.  Learn more at business.delaware.gov/osd.

As Delaware continues to evolve as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, the Division of Small Business is eager to be the go-to resource for owners by providing a comprehensive suite of programs and services. We empower small businesses to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and contribute to the overall prosperity of the state. 

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email us at [email protected]

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admin <![CDATA[Functional Medicine – What Is That?]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34184 2024-03-31T15:54:10Z 2024-04-01T00:05:59Z


By D
r. Cynthia Crosser  

On a daily basis, I am addressing this question. While many patients find themselves either dealing with a chronic disease or they wish to become well or even to stay healthy, patients today are more than ever wishing to address the “why” behind their health status. And it has come to the forefront that patients feel that while prescription drugs may alleviate symptoms, at least temporarily, or they might have perfect blood pressure, the reason behind the condition or symptoms rarely or never is alleviated. Patients are clearly seeking answers and that requires a change of how we think about and address health care.

So, what is this functional medicine? It is a model of health care that is a truly dynamic and comprehensive approach to assessing, preventing, and treating complex chronic disease as well as working with more mild health concerns. It is well known that alterations in physiological and biochemical changes of the human body have occurred for some time before a patient experiences this decline. This manifestation of change, even in basic physiological processes over time will produce symptoms of increasing duration, intensity, and frequency.  

Thus, functional medicine addresses the effects of interactions among our environment, our lifestyle, and our genetic predispositions. Each patient presents with their own unique, interwoven picture of these variables and their effect on their physiology and, ultimately, their health. The goal is to focus on restoring balance to the dysfunctional systems.  

So, what can a patient expect in working with a well-trained functional medicine doctor? The intake most often is a lengthy consultation to gather the lifetime history, along with the current symptoms in an effort to understand the story behind every patient. A plan is usually mapped out explaining what testing might be necessary, such as X-rays, more common bloodwork, or even immunology testing for things such as leaky gut, or dysbiosis from a stool sample. Then results are explained to the patient with an understanding of how this is to be addressed whether it be diet, exercise, supplements, etc. Other testing that might be done are tests such as stool tests, hormone panels, mold testing, or genetic testing. There are many roads that might be taken to find these dysfunctional processes. Over time, with addressing the specific issues with natural and less toxic means, patients are able to change and experience healthier lives, sleep better, think more clearly, handle stress better, and are able to participate in life more fully, AND without side effects.

In summary, functional medicine is a patient centered approach, rather than a disease centered approach, that sees health as a positive vitality rather than the absence of disease, and which recognizes the interconnections of internal physiology and seeks to restore balance among functional systems of the body. I feel so very grateful that I have the opportunity to work with patients that are seeking this level of health and are willing to do the work to accomplish what it feels like to be fully alive! Isn’t that what you want for yourself? For more information contact us at crossernaturalhealth.com or 302-994-1010.

Wellness within reach!

Pike Creek   302-994-1010

5700 Kirkwood Hwy., Suite 101, Wilmington, DE 19808  

www.crossernaturalhealth.com 

www.facebook.com/crossernaturalhealth

www.instagram.com/crossernaturalhealth

Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Weight loss, Neurofeedback, Nutritional Counseling

]]> admin <![CDATA[Easterseals Camp Fairlee Celebrates 70 Years!]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34520 2024-03-31T16:54:24Z 2024-04-01T00:05:56Z

By Natalie Scott

Of all the life-changing services offered by Easterseals, perhaps none shine brighter than those offered at Easterseals Camp Fairlee, outside of Chestertown, Maryland. Each year, hundreds of children and adults with disabilities come to Camp Fairlee to do things they cannot do anywhere else. For some, like John, it’s swimming in an accessible swimming pool. For campers, like Joel, it’s high-flying adventure soaring on the zip line through the trees, and for others, like Maria, it is canoeing/kayaking or fishing. 

Camp Fairlee fulfills a need for children and adults to have a safe and accessible camp experience like no other camp in the region. And, just as important, it also provides a break from caregiving responsibilities for the families of those campers. Last year, more than 360 individuals of all ages and with many varying types of disabilities enjoyed Camp Fairlee!   

Easterseals opened Camp’s doors in 1954 as “Easter Seals Camp Fairlee Manor.” In the last 70 years, Camp Fairlee has served over 30,000 families in our region. The historic property of Fairlee Manor was donated to Easterseals in 1953 as a 263-acre recreational camp for children and adults with disabilities by Louisa D’Andelot Carpenter, a du Pont heiress and philanthropist.

“We are excited to celebrate Camp Fairlee’s 70th year of service to people with disabilities,” Ken Sklenar, President/CEO of Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore, said. “Camp Fairlee has impacted the lives of thousands of campers and their families as well as the counselors who have come from around the world to serve at Camp. This anniversary year is a celebration for everyone.”

Easterseals Camp Fairlee is an unforgettable experience for people of all ages with disabilities. During a typical summer camp session, campers enjoy activities including horseback riding, nature trails, zip lining, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, arts & crafts, fishing and so much more. 

While campers rely on Camp Fairlee for adventure and independence in a nurturing and supportive environment, parents/caregivers who need respite care depend on Camp Fairlee for high quality, professional services. Each year camp counselors receive intensive training to ensure the health, safety and well-being of the campers.

“Camp Fairlee is a place for children and adults with disabilities to explore their independence in a supportive environment surrounded by peers. It’s exciting to watch the campers as they try to do things they’ve never done before and build friendships that last through the years,” said Sallie Price, Director of Recreation and Respite Services at Camp Fairlee. “For many families, Camp Fairlee allows them to enjoy their time of respite knowing their loved ones are in capable and knowledgeable hands.”

Learn more about Camp Fairlee, which provides a typical residential camp experience for children and adults with disabilities, at                       www.CampFairlee.com or by calling 410-778-0566. 

Along with Camp Fairlee, Easterseals offers a range of services. Please visit their website to learn more about our services for people of all ages and abilities www.de.easterseals.com. 

22242 Bay Shore Road, Chestertown, MD

www.CampFairlee.com

Follow @EastersealsDEMD on instagram & @EastersealsDE on facebook and @CampFairlee on facebook

easterseals camp fairlee 2

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admin <![CDATA[Gratitude & Peace In Caring For Loved Ones]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34398 2024-03-31T15:54:40Z 2024-04-01T00:05:45Z

By Kristin Stetler Donovan, Owner

Aging In Place Senior Care Services

No one ever said life was going to be easy. The key is to find gratitude in our search for peace. Life has its struggles, but trying to find the silver lining is of paramount importance. The stress we experience as a result of life’s demands seems to intensify as we age. 

Over the last several years I personally have gone through many changes. I have moved my caregiving agency from a location of 10 years to a new space in October of 2022 due to the landlord repurposing my old space, with short notice. In 2023 I separated from my franchise of 10 years and became an independently owned and operated senior care agency. During this time, I managed to endure Covid for the 4th and 5th time and a wicked version of the flu. I share this with you not because I want empathy, sympathy or praise, but so that you, as the reader, know that I am just like you. Life happens to us all and we all try to find our way as best as we can. 

Many years ago, which seems like a lifetime ago, I quit my corporate managerial career to care for my three children, which I was told I could not conceive, apparently a misnomer. During this time, I began to help care for my parents to ensure that they could remain independent in their home until their passing. Raising three little boys and caring for my parents as their needs increased was nothing short of daunting. I lost my father in June of 2008, my brother suddenly in June of 2009 and mother in June of 2010. Just prior to my mother’s passing I wasn’t sure I could endure much more, but we always find a way.

I had the good fortune of being at home, to care for all those that needed me. I said many times that my 60–80-hour work week in corporate America was easier than tending to the needs of others and being at home. I say this only because at times those that sacrifice their career to be at home caring for the home and others are sometimes seen in a disparaging light. For all that I endured and for all that I learned I was grateful, although at the time exhausted. I took my experience and started an agency to try to help, guide and assist those that are supporting the efforts of parents, family or friends that are aging or that are aging themselves and need additional assistance to remain independent. 

The last several years, through moving, Covid, rebranding and the normal day-to-day challenges of life I have at times found it difficult to be grateful, but last year my mantra was Gratitude. Every day I looked for that silver lining, that one thing to be grateful for that otherwise I would have let debilitate me. Well, this year I have made my mantra Peace. I think everyone in life is always seeking peace in one form or another. Once again, this is not about me, this is about you. As we age and care for others who are aging, I know that it is difficult to be grateful at times. I also know that peace is hard to come by especially when we are in the day-to-day situation of our own health needs increasing or those around us. I wanted to let you know that no matter what you are going through, I hope that you can find the gratitude within each day. Hopefully you will also find peace on your journey through life. May you find gratitude and peace caring for your loved ones, appreciating that you have them still with you, to hold, to hug and to chat. Please find peace in knowing that you are sharing your love and support helping a loved one. 

If you feel that Aging in Place Senior Care Services can help you on your journey or in facilitating a loved one’s journey, please reach out 302-722-8240 and our office staff would be happy to help in any way that we can. 

Wishing you a year ahead filled with reasons to be grateful and nothing but peace. 

www.aginginplacescs.com

(302) 722-8240

[email protected]

5586 Kirkwood Highway

Wilmington, DE 19808

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admin <![CDATA[Stop By On Your Way To The Beach]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34500 2024-03-31T15:49:31Z 2024-04-01T00:05:35Z

High Tide Beer, Wine & Spirits

follow us on facebook @hightidemilford & instagram @hightidemilford

104 Silicato Pkwy in Milford, Delaware

302-491-7056

[email protected]

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admin <![CDATA[Have You Tried Fondue?]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34440 2024-03-31T15:53:27Z 2024-04-01T00:05:27Z

fondue.

www.eatatfondue.com

302-249-2444

39 North Walnut Street

Milford, Delaware

Thurs – Sat 4pm to 11pm

     follow us on facebook and instagram  @fondue.de

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admin <![CDATA[Step-By-Step Estate Planning]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34485 2024-03-31T15:53:14Z 2024-04-01T00:05:07Z By Frank Demarinis  

 

Estate planning is a crucial aspect of financial management, especially for seniors who want to ensure affairs are in order. As individuals enter their senior years, it becomes increasingly important to plan ahead to protect assets and provide for loved ones. Here are some key tips for seniors to consider when it comes to estate planning:

1. Draft a comprehensive will 

It’s essential for seniors to have a clear and detailed will that reflects their current intentions regarding their estate. Be sure to review and update your will regularly to account for any changes in your financial situation or family dynamics. If beneficiaries pass, it can be a difficult task to obtain death certificates (particularly of non-related beneficiaries). Another safeguard to will directives if you have only 1-2 beneficiaries is a POD/TOD (Payment on Death or Transfer of Death), which can easily be added to bank accounts without the need for an attorney. 401K/IRAs should always have a beneficiary designation in lieu of a will.

2. Consider a living trust 

Setting up a living trust can be an effective way to transfer assets beneficiaries while avoiding the probate process. This can help streamline the distribution of your estate and potentially reduce costs and delays.

3. Appoint a power of attorney

Designating a trusted individual as power of attorney is crucial for managing your financial and healthcare decisions if you become unable to do so yourself. Make sure to discuss wishes and expectations with the chosen individual to ensure they understand their responsibilities. Never keep the original important papers in your safety deposit box which is like locking the safe with the key inside. Those papers are needed by your trustee to access your box. 

4. Communicate with family members

Open and honest communication about your estate plan with your family can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts in the future. Discussing your wishes and the reasons behind your decisions can provide clarity and peace of mind for everyone involved.

5. Organize important documents

Keep all essential documents, including wills, trusts, insurance policies, deeds, and financial account information, in a safe and easily accessible location. Consider creating a comprehensive list of these documents and informing a trusted family member or advisor of their whereabouts. 

6. Seek professional guidance 

Consulting with estate planning attorneys, financial advisors, and tax professionals can provide valuable expertise and ensure that your estate plan is comprehensive, tax-efficient, and legally sound.

7. Plan for long-term care

As seniors age, the potential need for long-term care should be taken into consideration. Explore options such as long-term care insurance, Medicaid planning, or setting aside funds specifically for potential care needs. 

8. In respect to Medicaid Planning there are acceptable and legal pre-planning tools including

Documenting an adult child helping in the same residence through a caretaker agreement, preparing an asset protection trust (not the same as a living trust or Miller Trust) to shelter assets if you believe Medicaid may be needed in the immediate future to ensure you have spending money after you obtain Medicaid Benefits, and, finally, reviewing deed transfer for fair market value or adding an adult child to the home ownership to ensure your spouse, significant other or adult child have a home to stay in. 

In conclusion, estate planning is an essential part of preparing for the future, especially for seniors. By taking the time to address these key considerations and seek professional guidance when needed, seniors can help safeguard their assets and provide for their loved ones according to their wishes. A certified senior advisor or attorney should be consulted. Senior Advisors of Delaware, LLC non-profit program. Call us for a free consultation, Frank Demarinis at 800-564-0173.

1-800-564-0173

www.AdvancedDirective.info

[email protected] 

senior_delaware_ad_jfm18

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admin <![CDATA[I Got Hurt At Work . . . Now What?]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34422 2024-03-31T15:52:55Z 2024-04-01T00:05:05Z

By Emily L. Raisis, Esq.

Knowledge is power. Unfortunately, most people know very little about workers’ compensation until its too late. Knowing how to handle your workers’ compensation claim early in the process can often result in a much stronger case.  

In most cases, workers injured in Delaware have two years from the date of injury to get their workers’ compensation claim accepted – this is called the statute of limitations. If your employer does not willingly acknowledge your claim within the appropriate timeline, you must file a petition with the Delaware Workers’ Compensation Department of Labor. Failure to get your claim accepted, or file a petition within the statute of limitations, may result in a reduced compensation or foreclose your recovery completely. 

While you have two years (for physical injury claims) to get your injury claim accepted, it is in your best interest to report the injury to your employer as soon as it happens. Timely reporting of the incident can ensure relevant and helpful evidence, such as witness statements and video, is properly preserved.  

Additionally, it is important to seek medical attention soon after your injury. What may seem like a minor injury at first, could later manifest into something more serious. 

Benefits can be confusing. A claim number does not mean your claim is accepted. Just because your employer has paid for benefits does not necessarily mean that your claim will be accepted. Employers can pay benefits “IN DISPUTE,” which means they are not obligated to accept your claim. 

Getting injured at work can be overwhelming and stressful for so many reasons. You may feel a little like David verses Goliath, fighting the deep pockets of the insurance company. It’s important to have a strong advocate in your corner. As workers’ compensation attorneys, we are not afraid to stand up to the insurance company and will fight to ensure you are getting all benefits to which you are entitled. If you were injured at work, make sure your benefits are protected. Contact one of our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at 302-565-6100 for a free consultation.

Bio

A graduate of Catholic University and Widener School of Law, Emily L. Raisis, is a senior associate in the Newark office of Kimmel, Carter, Roman, Peltz & O’Neill, P.A.  

Emily has been with Kimmel Carter for more than a decade, starting out as a law clerk during her time at Widener law and becoming an attorney with the firm upon passing the Delaware Bar. Praised by the firm’s leadership for her superior research skills, legal writing and her strong rapport with clients, Emily is a zealous advocate for her clients.  She is barred in Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and the U.S. District Court of Delaware. She is also a member of the American Association for Justice (AHA) and the Delaware Trial Lawyers Association (DTLA).  She was recognized by Delaware Today Top Lawyers 2023 and US News Best Lawyers One to Watch 2024.

Emily is a lifelong Delawarean and she is ready to do what it takes to get First State injury victims the compensation they deserve.  

Testimonials

“Emily Raisis is a terrific attorney and works with a fantastic team. She is knowledgeable and reassuring and I truly appreciate her assistance with my case. Thanks Emily!” ~ L.B.

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admin <![CDATA[Esthetic Insights: A Close Look At HydraFacial]]> https://thewomensjournal.com/?p=34492 2024-03-31T15:52:29Z 2024-04-01T00:05:03Z

By Joanne Graves, Owner of Sanctuary Spa

Since being introduced to me in 2014, I have written multiple articles about the HydraFacial treatment. However, in this piece, the spotlight is on presenting a direct narrative from an experienced esthetician expressing her thoughts on the HydraFacial MD system when tending to the skincare requirements of her clients. Kelly C., LE, boasts years of experience in the field of esthetics and currently serves as Senior Esthetician at Sanctuary Spa in North Wilmington, DE. During a recent conversation, Kelly and I discussed one of my favorite in-spa treatments.

Joanne: Can you tell me what you think of the HydraFacial MD by Edge Systems?

Kelly: I personally love HydraFacial treatments for many reasons. First, the treatment’s non-invasive nature is appealing, ensuring a gentle yet deeply cleansing experience suitable for all skin types. Additionally, HydraFacial is not only beneficial for restoring skin firmness but also effectively targets acne, acne scarring, and hyper-pigmentation across different age groups. Personally, I have witnessed the transformational effects of the treatment leading to almost porcelain-like skin within a short period, showcasing its instant and lasting benefits.

Joanne: How would you describe the key advantages of HydraFacial treatments compared to other skincare options?

Kelly: One of the standout features of HydraFacial treatments is the customizable nature, allowing tailored solutions to meet each client’s unique skincare needs. This level of personalization ensures efficacy and client satisfaction. Moreover, the patented Vortex technology utilized in HydraFacial treatments distinguishes it by providing a deep cleansing experience without risking skin damage or inflammation, making it especially suitable for sensitive skin types. The process results in deeply hydrated and rejuvenated skin post-treatment.

Joanne: Can you elaborate on the overall impact of HydraFacial treatments on skin health and appearance?

Kelly: HydraFacial procedures deeply impact the health and look of the skin, creating a lasting sense of cleanliness and moisture. Through thorough cleansing and the delivery of vital nutrients, these treatments not only remove impurities but also boost hydration, resulting in a rejuvenated and glowing skin tone. The versatility and effectiveness of HydraFacial in targeting individual skin issues like acne, scars, and discoloration highlight its ability to meet diverse skincare needs successfully. Ultimately, undergoing a HydraFacial session leads to skin that feels rejuvenated, looks more vibrant, and experiences visible enhancements in texture and overall appearance.

I’d like to thank Kelly for her invaluable insights and taking the time to share them with our readers. Kelly is available for consultations for all of your skin care questions and procedures. You can request an appointment with her at www.mySanctuarySpasalon.com or by calling 302-475-1469.

COUPON: Mention The County Women’s Journal for $50 off your next HydraFacial Treatment.

Contact us at www.mysanctuaryspasalon.com or call us at 302-475-1469 for a personalized consultation!

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