About the CoverPictured are seniors from the Pinellas Park Live Free! Club, Anna Hampton, Arin O’Brien and Paige Kennedy (L – R).

Photographed by Julie Eff ron, a natural light photographer specializing in newborns, children and families.

(914) 548-8008JulieEff ronPhotoVideo.com

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8-15 Good NewsGood News • Good News Faith • Good News Schools

10 Good Events

16-18 Good ProductsGood Books for Children

40-42 Good AdventuresExploring in Georgia

43-45 Good EatingLocal Entrepreneurs Get Saucy! • The Versatile Bean

20 Breast Cancer: True PreventionDr. Christopher Hood

22-23Nicole Marchman:

Bringing Light Out of the Darkness

Pamela Settle

24 Editorial: November 4th is Coming.

Are Your Ready?

26-27 Mastering Your Child’s Manners

for the HolidaysEllie Hirsch

28 A Note from

Pinellas County Sheriff Sheriff Bob Gualtieri

31 A Note from

the Juvenile Welfare BoardDr. Marcie Biddleman

32 A Note from

Pinellas County SchoolsMichael A. Grego, Superintendent

34-35 Sugar and Spice

and Things Not So NiceDr. Theresa Hartley

36 AchieveHers:

Balancing Career and Family as a Caregiver

39 Solutions for CaregiverBrenda Watson

46 Our StoryCynthia Wicks

Happy Fall! Our weather isn’t quite fall-like yet,

but the pumpkins are out in full force, kids are

at the weekend fall festivals and pumpkin-spice

everything is making its way through social

media. School is in the swing, football is in the

air and we’re just weeks away from the start of

the holiday movie marathons on cable TV.

Aaaaah. Fall is a wonderful time of year.

In addition to the fall fun, October also brings with it some serious topics for discussion.

We raise awareness for domestic violence, teen dating violence, bullying, drugs and

breast cancer. Pink ribbons, purple ribbons and red ribbons abound. PSAs, Facebook

posts and fl yers sent home from school remind us that these issues need our attention.

So many issues. How do we fi nd the time to deal with these, not to mention all the other

things on our plate? Not everyone can start a new organization like Nicole Marchman did

(See story on page 20) or Heather Farris (page 46). Not everyone will have the time to

organize a countywide eff ort to save the lives of teenagers (See page 18).

Everyone can however, make a diff erence by changing how they view violence, drug use,

sexual exploitation, bullying and the handling of our personal relationships. All change

starts within the heart of an individual with words like respect, honor, patience and love.

Also as parents, we can limit our children’s exposure to a culture that celebrates the opposite

in movies, music, video games and television. Start when the kids are babies by making up

your own mind to control what your children will or won’t see. Set the standard for your

family high and stick with it. Saying “no” to our culture is not a bad thing.

While we can control how we live our lives, we cannot control others. If bullying or

violence is impacting your family or when life seems unmanageable for any reason,

please seek help. Pinellas County has assistance available to you in public and private

organizations. Call 211 to fi nd out the agencies that can help you. If you need to

report violence of any kind, you can do so anonymously. If that isn’t the answer, then

seek out a local church and ask for confi dential help.

Our motto at GoodLiving® magazine is that healthy bodies make healthy families.

And healthy families make healthy communities. We stand by this in our words and

in our actions within Pinellas County. We hope you enjoy and appreciate this Fall

Issue for what it stands for, because it stands for YOU!

Until next time,

Letter from the Editor

Pamela Settle

A most sincere and heartfelt “thank you” to the Ronald McDonald Charities of Tampa Bay and congratulations on your 40th anniversary. Keep up GOOD work!

®

PublisherLight Shine Media Group, LLC

Editor-in-ChiefPamela Settle

Design and LayoutMarcie Kelliher

Contribu ng WritersDr. Marcie Biddleman

Sheryl Conrad

Dr. Michael Grego

Dr. Theresa Hartley

Ellie Hirsch

Dr. Christopher Hood

Pete O’Shea

Brenda Watson

Cynthia Wicks

To submit good news ideas or events news@goodlivingmag.com

To adver se or purchasebulk copies of the magazineadver sing@goodlivingmag.com

GoodLiving™ Magazine &GoodLivingMagazine.comP.O. Box 1795

Oldsmar, Florida 34677

(727) 776-3656

info@goodlivingmag.com

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Media Group, LLC and is available to readers by a paid

annual subscription available at tampabaygoodliving.com.

Promotional copies are distributed through establishments

as a courtesy to their customers and clients. Additional

copies are donated to local schools as a community service.

To request copies, contact info@goodlivingmag.com. All

photographs, artwork, design and editorial are the sole

property of GoodLiving® magazine and Light Shine Media

Group, LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced

in any form without written permission.

GoodLiving® magazine and Light Shine Media Group, LLC

are not responsible for statements made by advertisers and

writers for any consequences arising from omissions or

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date set by the advertiser. GoodLiving® magazine and

Light Shine Media Group, LLC reserve the right to refuse

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All rights reserved.

Fall Issue 2014Volume 5 • Issue 5

8 Fall Issue 2014

news

Protecting Your Child’s Identity

Th e Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

has a program for helping parents protect their children’s identity

and credit rating. Each year, more than 50,000 children in Florida

become victims of identity theft, and more than $100 million

is stolen from children whose identities have been compromised.

Identity thieves target kids because they generally have clean credit

histories, and years will pass before the crime is detected. It’s never

too early to start protecting your child from identity theft.

Freeze Your Child’s CreditA new Florida law gives kids an extra line of defense against

identity theft. Th e law requires credit reporting agencies to

establish and freeze a credit record for a minor upon request

by a parent or guardian. By freezing your child’s credit, you can

eff ectively block others from using it.

How to Request a Credit Freeze for KidsTo create a credit report for your child and freeze it, contact the

following credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

Th e fee to freeze your child’s credit is $10. If your child has

already been the victim of identity theft, the fee is waived.

Th e requirements are generally the same for all three agencies:

child’s complete name and address, a copy of a Social Security

card, offi cial copy of a birth certifi cate and proof of ID for the

parent requesting the freeze. Refer to the specifi c credit agency

for the exact steps and requirements.

Keep Your Child’s Personal Information SafeAn identity thief can use a name and a Social Security number to

open a bank account, obtain credit cards, apply for a loan, or even

rent a place to live. Take precautions to keep your child’s personal

information out of the hands of fraudsters.

Here are some simple things you can do:

• Keep birth certifi cates, Social Security cards and other

sensitive documents in a secure place, such as a safe deposit

box or home safe. Avoid carrying these documents with you.

• Be careful when disposing of documents containing personal

information. Shred them before you throw them out.

• Avoid giving out your child’s Social Security number unless

it is absolutely necessary. Ask why it is needed, how it will be

protected, how it will be used, and if another form of

identifi cation would be acceptable.

• Use strong computer passwords. Never write them down or

share them.

• Limit the information you share about yourself and your

child on social networking sites.

• Use only secure websites when sharing fi nancial information

online. A lock icon on the status bar of your browser means

your information will be safe when it is transmitted.

Recover from Child Identity TheftIf you think your child’s identity has been stolen, it’s important

to take immediate action. Follow these steps to stop an identity

thief from doing more damage:

• Contact your local police department and report the crime.

Keep a copy of the report to show to creditors and credit

reporting agencies.

• Contact the three credit reporting agencies and request any

information they might have on your child’s credit.

• Ask the credit reporting agencies to place a fraud alert on

your child’s credit report.

• Contact every creditor listed on your child’s credit report.

Explain that this is a case of child identity theft and ask to

have all accounts and collection notices removed immediately

from your child’s credit report.

• Freeze your child’s credit.

Equifax Security FreezeP.O. Box 105788

Atlanta, GA 30348

Equifax.com or call (800) 685-1111

Experian Security FreezeP.O. Box 9554

Allen, TX 75013

Experian.com or call (888) 397-3742

TransUnion Protected Consumer FreezeP.O. Box 380

Woodlyn, PA 19094

TransUnion.com or call 1-800-916-8800

news

Students with SADD to Help PCSO Fight Distracted DrivingTh e Pinellas County Sheriff ’s Offi ce School Resource Offi cers

(SRO) Unit has received a $47,960 grant from the State Farm Youth

Advisory Board to start a campaign aimed at distracted teen drivers.

Th e program, called Targeted Response Against Distracted Drivers

or #TRADD is being developed so that teens can help to educate

other teens on the fatal realities of distracted/impaired driving. Th e

program will also be a service-learning opportunity for SADD

(Students Against Destructive Decisions) members, who will use the

#TRADD program and the guidance of their SROs to assist in the

development of a school specifi c program for their peers.

Representatives from State Farm Insurance and their Youth

Advisory Board were on hand and made the offi cial check

presentation to the Sheriff ’s Offi ce in October. Th e program will

be launched in early 2015 and implemented in the six Pinellas

County High Schools that have an onsite SRO.

Th e new program has two parts. First, students will enter a

dramatized scene regarding the fi nality of life. In a mock funeral

in progress, a speaker gives a eulogy and others will be speaking

of a loved one who died in a crash involving a driver who was

distracted, speeding or under the infl uence. Survivors, responsible

Students from SADD join Sheriff Gualtieri to receive the donation

from State Farm Insurance Representatives.

drivers, family members and friends of victims will discuss the

impact the tragic event has had on their lives.

In part two, students will view a crashed vehicle and go through

interactive exercises: 1) students will use a pedal car in conjunction

with fatal vision goggles demonstrating the eff ects of the various levels

of impairment on driving; 2) students will use a simulation vehicle

to traverse courses while texting or handling other distractions; and

3)students will attempt to walk a straight line or place objects in

designated spots while wearing fatal vision goggles to demonstrate

the eff ects on impairment on everyday tasks.

10 Fall Issue 2014

events

Red Ribbon Family FunfestOperation PAR is hosting their 11th annual Red Ribbon Family

Funfest at Vinoy Park on October 25th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Th e public is welcome to join them and celebrate family and

drug-free living at this free fun event that is part of Red Ribbon

Week. Attendees can participate with arts and crafts, video

gaming trucks, bouncy houses, local sports mascots, local vendors

and health and wellness providers.

Art Harvest in DunedinFor 51 years, art lovers have strolled through Highlander Park

taking in the wide variety of art showcased at this popular

event which has become a juried show with more than 200

artists. Bring the kids to enjoy the Children’s Pavilion for an

arts and crafts project. Th is is the largest autumn art show in the

Tampa Bay area. Presented by the Junior League of Clearwater-

Dunedin, Inc. with proceeds benefi ting local charitable work.

Saturday and Sunday, November 1st and 2nd from 10 a.m. to

5 p.m. Highlander Park in Dunedin at the southwest corner of

Michigan Ave and Pinehurst Road. Admission is free. $5 to park.

Family Fun Day in the Park for PCCPTAPTA is not just for moms, it’s for dads, too. Th is year the

PCCPTA is celebrating Family Engagement in Education, and

that includes dads and male caregivers. Join the Pinellas County

Council PTA for this year’s Family Fun Day in the Park, Sunday

November 9, 2014 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at Eagle Lake Park.

1800 Keene Road in Largo.

Free lunch for the fi rst 100 pre-registered at PCCPTA.org. Along

with food, there will be family fun activities like an infl atable

joust tournament, an obstacle course, bungee run and more!

Christmas Under the OaksTh is annual crafts event sponsored by the GFWC North

Pinellas Woman’s Club has raised $400,000 to local charities and

community service organization. Enjoy a day at Coachman Park

in Clearwater on November 9th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

$2 entrance donation. More info at gfwcnpwc.org

Safety Harbor Salutes VeteransOn the 11th day of the 11th month at 11 a.m. the City of Safety

Harbor, American Legion Post 238, and VFW Post 10093 will

salute our heroes that serve and have served our country. Tuesday,

11/11 at 11 a.m. Veterans Park at the Safety Harbor Marina.FREE

Largo Salutes VeteransTh e City of Largo will honor all Veterans and active duty

personnel in a Veterans Day Ceremony on Monday, November

11 at 7 p.m. Th is event will be held at the Military Court of

Honor in Largo Central Park (101 Central Park Dr, Largo

33771) and will feature special music, a color guard presentation

and keynote speaker. All ages are welcome to attend this free

honorary event.

Upcoming Conference:Hooked on Family Engagement To Increase Student Achievement!Th e Alliance for Family Engagement is holding a conference

for parents, teachers, administrators and community members.

Th ere will be 15 diff erent sessions to promote family engagement

and increased student achievement, including Creating Family

Friendly Schools and Partnerships; Understanding Florida State

Standards; Reading Fluency and How to avoid power struggles.

Registration is $65 and includes continental breakfast, lunch, and

door prizes. St. Petersburg Hilton Bayfront Hotel, 333 1st Street

South, St. Petersburg 33701. Parking $5. Friday, November 14, 2014

from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information call Michelle

Roberge 727-588-5050

DogtoberfestTh e Suncoast Animal League presents their 6th Annual

Dogtoberfest and Super Pet Adopt-a-Th on. All pets are welcome

to the Blessing at the Animals at 11:45 a.m. Doggie Costume

Contest, crowning of the king and queen, pet talent contest and

the 7th annual Running of the Weiners. Th is fun, family oriented

event is held Saturday, November 15th from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

At Highlander Park, 1920 Michigan Blvd. in Dunedin.

Dogtoberfest.info

CraftArt 2014A fabulous spot to purchase gift items and one of the most eagerly

anticipated arts events each year in Pinellas County. CraftArt

features some of the nation’s best fi ne craft artists with handmade

works in jewelry, clay, fi ber, glass, wood, metal, paper and mixed

media. Th e festival also features artists’ demonstrations, hands-on

activities, an artists’ raffl e, food trucks and the area’s best local

brews. Stop in the Florida Craftsmen store that day too for more

Made in Florida gift ideas. Saturday and Sunday, November

22-23, 2014 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Avenue between 4th

and 6th Streets in Downtown St. Petersburg.

events

12 Fall Issue 2014

news

FAITH

THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:

Story Roundup By Pete O’Shea of WTIS Radio AM 1110,Host of the Pete O’Shea Show, weekdays from 11 am to 1 pm.

I have the greatest job in the world. I get to interview amazing men

and women of God, most of whom are from right here in Tampa

Bay. I’d love for you to meet some of the phenomenal servants who

have been on my show this past month. To learn more about them,

we keep archives of the show at WTIS1110.com.

Nicole Marchman was abused most of her life. For her fi rst 27

years on this planet, she was abused, fi rst by her father and then

her husband. She picked herself up and got her masters degree in

social work to save the others. She started the None Lost Move-

ment to protect and lift up victims of domestic abuse. She also

has written the book, Unbreakable Spirit Arises: From Broken Girl to Resilient Woman. She is a part of my show every other Tuesday

so be sure to tune in and listen.

Allen Weatherilt runs United Taxi. He coined the company

slogan, Have A Jesus Filled Day. He sees his cab company as a

ministry, a second chance for lost souls to fi nd redemption. He

instills the core values of Christ into the over 100 drivers so they

can be prepared to speak the truth to others. He is a modern day

Fisher of Men and he exudes faith, love, peace and hope in of all

places, a taxicab.

Dr. Veronica Walters is the Pastor at ACTS Church Interna-

tional of Largo. She is also a professor at Everett University and

was named Miss Inspiration 2014. She is a powerful preacher,

transparent about her mistakes and struggles, which really

resonates with her fl ock. God rewarded her faith and provided

a thriving church in Largo after moving from Tampa with no

budget to do so.

Bob Mayne is the captain of the Aqua Quest International, the

ship that was seized in Honduras recently while on a humani-

tarian mission. Th e crew was imprisoned for seven weeks in

horrible conditions for a crime they did not commit. He came on

the show and told of the horrors of their treatment. Yet, he still

intends to go back and complete the mission of helping the poor

people of that region. I want to be like him when I grow up.

Mother Irabelle Th omas is an icon in the African American

Church community in Largo. She is 95 years young and still

plays the organ on Sundays, has her own ministry and she

recently published a book of poetry. Countless generations of

believers have leaned on this woman’s boundless faith. She is

upbeat, engaging and loving to all.

Steve Hopper was in a fi ght at 17 in which the boy he hit fell

into a coma. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison and lost his

football scholarship and his future, or so he thought. He found

the Lord in that 10 by 10 jail cell and vowed to make sure other

young people don’t make the same mistakes he did. He now

tells his story to young people for the Fellowship of Christian

Athletes and recently, after hearing Steve speak, over 200 high

school students stood up in unison and made the decision to

follow Christ.

And oh yeah, last but certainly not least, Good Living Magazine

Publisher, Pam Settle was also a guest this past month and she just

consistently amazes me with her particular brand of selfl ess serving

to this entire community. God bless you and thank you, Pam.

Th e common denominator in all of these people is love. Th ey

all personify love and live, work and breath to share love boldly

and continuously with everyone. I am learning a lot from these

people. Th ey make me want to be a better man. Th anks, Lord for

giving me the greatest job in the whole world, serving You!

13Fall Issue 2014

news

FAITHInner Healing, What you Need to Know Janet Tatum, founder of Healing Hearts, Restoring Lives counseling

is off ering a class, Inner Healing, What you Need to Know on

November 13, 2014 at 7 p.m. in Palm Harbor. “If our hearts are

pure, we are able to comprehend the complete nature of God and

relate to Him in deep intimacy. But whose heart is pure? Th ose

things lodged in our hearts distort and cripple our relationship

with Him, ourselves and others,” says Janet. She invites people

to come and learn the scriptural foundation to healing and bring

understanding to God’s eternal intention to make us whole. Class

is November 13 at 7 p.m. at Th e Conference Center, 29750 US

19, Palm Harbor. For more information, call (727) 742-7068.

Holy Yoga Comes to ClearwaterFinally Holy Yoga has made its way to Pinellas County!

Founded in 1998, Holy Yoga is the intentional practice of

connecting the entire being, body, mind and spirit with God.

Th ere is often a misunderstanding that yoga is a religion; it is

not. Yoga is a spiritual discipline, much like prayer, fasting and

meditation. Yoga has the capacity to enhance personal beliefs and

faith; Holy Yoga is 100% Jesus and 100% Yoga.

Laurie Park Harper has been certifi ed and is teaching her fi rst

class on Tuesday nights at 6:45 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church

in Clearwater. Get more info on their Facebook page at TruN-orth Holy Yoga.

Benefi t Dinner for Pregnancy CentersNew Life Solutions has completed what it calls its “Miracle

Merger” with A Woman’s Place in Tampa to make a larger impact

in the community. Both organizations will operate under the

banner of New Life Solutions. Th eir annual fundraiser, “Hope For

the Future” Benefi t Dinner and Celebration of Life, is being held

on two diff erent evenings. A Woman’s Place dinner event will be

held in Tampa on Th ursday, November 6th at A La Carte Pavilion

and the Pregnancy Center of Pinellas County’s dinner event will

be held on Saturday, November 8th at the Historic St. Petersburg

Coliseum. Come hear Dr. Bruce Wilkinson, author of Th e Prayer

of Jabez, who will connect the dots in how God is expanding our

boundaries by uniting these two powerful ministries.

NewLifeSolutions.org

Fellowship of Christian AthletesTh e Fellowship of Christian Athletes gathered on October 8 for

their annual Fields of Faith rallies. Th is year’s rallies were held at St.

Petersburg High School and Seminole High School. Gavin Floyd,

pitcher for the Atlanta Braves was guest speaker at the Seminole

event. Students from high schools throughout the county came

together to sing and worship. Students interested in joining an

FCA group, or forming one at their school, should contact Chuck

Peterman, Pinellas County Area Director at (727) 612-8727.

T.O.R.C.H. Th e ministry T.O.R.C.H.

(Taking Opportunities to Reach

Compelling Heights) is hosting

their I AM Walking in my

Promises Shoe Party, November

22 at the Empress Tea Room

in Tampa. Enjoy pre-holiday

shopping, food, refreshments and

time out with the girls to help

this organization raise funds to

help young people who age out of the foster care system.

Learn more about this organization or buy tickets to the event

at TorchIgnited.org.

14 Fall Issue 2014

NEWS

It was a Saturday afternoon at Home Depot on Ulmerton. In

the corner, about 15 students from Pinellas Park High School’s

Live Free Club were building shelves with the help of master

carpenter, Robert Smith. Not just any shelves. Shelves that would

hold shoes. Not just any shoes, empty shoes that will represent

teenagers in Florida who died from drugs or from drinking and

driving so far in 2014.

Th e idea came from the club’s faculty advisor, Coach Paul

Hanson, but the students were behind it 100 percent. Th e three

shoe shelves will be arranged to form a U-shaped memorial.

Shoes will be glued in place. Home Depot’s Smith created the

design and helped them construct the shelves. Th e store also

donated paint and other materials to help the students. Shoes

were donated by club and community members.

Th e memorial will be unveiled at Pinellas Park’s homecoming on

October 17th. Live Free student members will walk their peers

by the rack to show them the shoes, describing what they stand

for and who they stand for. Th ey will encourage good decision

making, like not ever taking drugs, drinking and driving or being

a passenger with any driver who has been drinking.

Don’t leave your family with only empty shoes is the message.

And then they will ask them to sign a pledge about respecting them-

selves and honoring their families enough to make good decisions.

SCHOOLSTh e LiveFree! Club at Pinellas Park, as well

as other high schools in the county, is about

spreading the message to teenagers about

the eff ects of drugs and alcohol. “We really

want to make an impact on students so that

they can make the right and safest choices.

Th is shoe display is hopefully going to do

just that. Each and every shoe you see repre-

sents a teenager’s life, a teenager that was

killed because someone decided to drink and

get behind the wheel to drive” said senior

Anna Hampton, the club’s president. “Th e

point we hope to get across is that these 100

shoes will never be walked in again. It shows

us how short life can be. Every single choice

we make paves the path for our future and

even other’s.”

Th is is a club of GOOD kids. And they

are led by a GOOD teacher for a GOOD

cause. After six years as the club’s advisor,

the shoe memorial is Coach Hanson’s swan

song, as he retires from teaching at the end

of this school year.

“Coach Hanson has always been the perfect

sponsor. He leads this group in a way that no one else will be able to.

Th e connection he has with students isn’t superfi cial. I speak for

the whole club when I say that we love coach Hanson and will

miss him dearly,” said Paige Kennedy, club member.

Anna Hampton agrees. “Mr.Hanson is more than just a teacher

or coach or sponsor. He is a friend. I know that I can always go

to him about anything. Th ere aren’t many high school teachers

that truly care about their students like he does.”

Th e club will fi nd other events for the shoe memorial and their

pledges to keep the message, and other kids, alive.

NEWS

Palm Harbor Middle School Counselor Takes Top HonorJennifer Lotti, a school counselor at Palm

Harbor Middle School, has been named

Florida’s Middle School Counselor of the

Year by the Florida School Counselor Asso-

ciation. Th e association recognizes school

counselors for outstanding work achieved.

Lotti was also named Pinellas County’s

Middle School Counselor of the Year in

January. She has been a school counselor for

14 years and a licensed mental health coun-

selor for fi ve years. She will be honored at the

FSCA conference in Orlando.

The GreatAmerican Teach-InTh e Great American Teach-In will be

held Wednesday, November 19, 2014 and

volunteers are needed at elementary, middle

and high schools throughout the district.

Each school needs speakers for every class,

so a large number of volunteers are needed.

It’s a great experience for the speaker and

the students. Each school has a volunteer

coordinator who sets up the speakers for

the school. If you don’t have a particular

school in mind, then call the district offi ce

to apply for a volunteer assignment.

Applications are due by November 14th.

Or call Dr. Valerie Brimm at the district

offi ce at (727) 588-6405.

SCHOOLS

GoodLiving Magazine is Looking for

a Few Good Readers!If you enjoy sharing Good News from your community

and would like to earn part-time income,tell us a little about yourself.

Send an email to:afewgoodreaders@goodlivingmag.com

16 Fall Issue 2014

products

The Principle Gang SeriesIn their family medical practice, Dr. Dan

Dugi and his wife Bli Dugi have seen a rise

in the number of bullying-related injuries.

Because of this, they believe bullying should

be addressed the same as other preventive

medicine topics, and made a discussion topic

during routine children’s medical exams. To

make a diff erence outside the exam room,

the husband and wife team created a series of children’s books to

reinforce messages on family, friendship, community and fairness.

Th e fi rst two books in the series will be available by October,

in time for National Bullying Prevention Month: Don’t Judge a Lizard by His Scales and Wizard Lizard Rides the Subway. Books

are available at Amazon.com

No Cell Phone DayNo Cell Phone Day is a children’s picture

book written by American jazz trombonist

and record producer Delfeayo Marsalis and

illustrated by award-winning Harlem artist,

Reginald William Butler. Th e book playfully

addresses the idea of imposing technology

and how it aff ects our relationships with

loved ones. In the book, Marsalis and

his daughter decide to put down their cell phones for a day to

explore their hometown of New Orleans. Along the way, they

see the sites, hear the sounds and enjoy all the great things Th e

Big Easy has to off er. Most importantly, they spend quality time

TOGETHER. $16.99 at Kidstownpress.com or at Amazon.com

The Adventures of Everyday GeniusesA series of six books by author Barbara Esham explores the

classroom adventures of children who have “diff erent” styles

of thinking and learning, teaching that there is more than one

way to defi ne smart. Any parent who has dealt with struggles

in school, will appreciate these books that validate a child’s own

uniqueness and help the child see themselves outside of the

classroom evaluation.

Free Association, Where My Mind Goes During Science Class: For the creative, free thinking kids who fi nd their minds

wandering at school.

Last to Finish: A Story About the Smartest Boy in Math Class: Story of a math whiz whose mind freezes during a timed test.

Reinforces that understanding is more important than memorization

and testing.

Mrs. Gorski, I Th ink I Have Th e Wiggle Fidgets:For the students who wiggle a little too much in class.

Encourages taking control of one’s behavior to change bad habits.

Keep Your Eye on the Prize: Teaches about motivation.

If You’re So Smart, How Come You Can’t Spell Mississippi?

A Story about Dyslexia.

Stacey Coolidge’s Fancy Smancy Cursive Handwriting: Highlights a girl’s handwriting diffi culty and creative writing strength.

Series is available at Amazon.com.

Some facts about bullying: • The average child has watched 8,000 televised murders and 100,000 acts of violence before fi nishing elementary school. • 160,000 students stay home from school every day due to bullying (NEA). • 30% of students who reported they had been bullied said they had at times brought weapons to school. • 2/3 of students who are targets become bullies. • 20% of all children say they have been bullied. • In schools where there are bullying programs, bullying is reduced by 50%.

Reading with Purpose: Good Books for Children

17Fall Issue 2014

products

Local author, Amy Hammond believes that forming a colle-

giate allegiance early in life can lead to academic success.

Her “When I Grow Up” college series is designed to inspire

children to seek higher education and to embrace the time-

honored traditions unique to their chosen school. Written in

lively verse, the books appeal to children of all ages.

When I Grow Up, I’ll Be A Gatorfeatures a young boy’s tour of the University

of Florida as he explains to the reader why

he will grow up to wear the orange and blue.

When I Grow Up, I’ll Be A Bull follows a green and gold-clad child through

the campuses of the University of South

Florida, stopping at hotspots along the way.

When I Grow Up, I’ll Be A ‘Nole is all about the garnet and gold allure of

Florida State University. Visit famous

campus locations like the circus and the

football stadium alongside a boy who loves

the tomahawk chop.

When I Grow Up, I’m Bama Bound is full of “Roll Tide” pride. Th e young boy

in this book has been a Bama baby since the

day he was born….to U of A he’s sworn.

Learn why.

When I Grow Up, I’ll Be A Tiger inspires children to consider LSU in their

college selection process. Th is child carries

his tiger cub Mike as he stops by Louisiana

State University landmarks.

I Can Change the WorldMahatma Gandhi said, “Be the

change you wish to see in the

world.” We can teach this to our

children starting a very young

age by reading books that teach

compassion and values on a

regular basis.

I Can Change the World! is an

uplifting new storybook that

teaches your child that change

can start with just one person—your child! By using manners,

doing chores around the house to helping the family, being a

good friend to other kids and collecting food for the hungry, any

child can change the world. Part of any child’s development of

healthy self-esteem is making a habit of giving back to others.

Publisher I See Me! has created their newest personalized children’s

book, I Can Change the World!, to help young children see that

they can make a diff erence. Th is book is personalized with a

child’s name on the cover and throughout the story, parents can

draw the child right into the lesson on nearly every page. Visit

their website at ISeeMe.com to take a virtual tour of the book.

Makes an excellent gift idea!

Worry WoosSome issues are diffi cult to talk about with ‘tweens and teens,

leaving parents on a search to fi nd just the right words to discuss

insecurities, confusion and sadness. A line of books and matching

plush toys may be just the intervention needed to break the ice

and promote communication.

WorryWoo Monsters help children, tweens and teens learn how

to express themselves and process hard to understand situations.

Laugh and bond with the monsters, then open the door to real

conversation about loneliness, frustration, worry and insecurity.

Meet Squeek, the Monster of Innocence, who is afraid to try

new things. He hides in his cozy bubble planning all the things

he would do if he just took that big step.

Meet Twitch, the Monster of Frustration, who tries very hard to

get everything right, but gets upset when things don’t go his way.

Books, plush toys and more available at worrywoos.com.

18 Fall Issue 2014

Author Teaches Children (and Us!) to be Compassionate about HungerWhile most Americans will worry about eating too much this

holiday season, 16 million of our country’s children live in households

that struggle to aff ord food, according to a 2012 report from the

United States Department of Agriculture.

“We hear about ‘food insecurity’ quite a bit, especially after the

2008-09 economic crash, but I think most people don’t have a

clear picture of what that means,” says Lois Brandt, a former

Peace Corps volunteer and author of Maddi’s Fridge, a children’s

picture book that asks the question: what do you do if your best

friend’s family doesn’t have enough food?

“Food insecurity means an empty refrigerator. Food insecurity

means soda instead of milk. Food insecurity means a child

coming to school hungry and unable to focus. Poverty may not

look exactly the same in our country as it does in a war-torn

region or a developing country, but it is aff ecting our children

and their futures. Sometimes, working parents have to choose

between rent and food, medicine and food, or gas and food.

In Pinellas County, many of our food banks are still in high demand, their shelves empty during parts of the year. Every year, GoodLiving® Magazine issues a Community Challenge to FEED OUR FOOD BANKS! Go to our website at GoodLivingMagazine.com to fi nd a list of food banks and kitchens that need your donations and volunteer time.

Brandt suggests these actions for preventing childhood hunger:

Support non-profi t organizations like Feeding America

(FeedingAmerica.org). Previously known as Second Harvest,

Feeding America is a national network of food banks that feeds

more that 37 million people through food pantries, soup kitchens

and shelters. It’s the nation’s leading organization for countering

hunger and educating the public about this crisis.

Talk to your children about childhood hunger and how they can

help. “When I was a child I opened my best friend’s refrigerator

to get a snack and was shocked to see it held almost nothing,” she

says. “I didn’t know what to do.” As an adult, Brandt says she’s

amazed by the number of people who share with her their own

stories of childhood food insecurity. “Rather than sheltering your

children from this sad fact of American life, talking to them about

it can help nurture their compassion and empathy,” she says. “And

there’s plenty they can do to help, from making posters to raise

awareness, to organizing a food drive at school.” Taking action

teaches children that they do have the power and ability to change

the world for the better.

Don’t make childhood hunger a political issue. Of course,

childhood hunger doesn’t exist in a vacuum; issues like welfare,

minimum wage, income inequality and access to health care

– all of which are heavily politicized – surround the problem.

Whatever your take on these topics, realize that no matter the

decisions a parent has made in his or her lifetime, children are

innocent and have no control of their family’s circumstances.

Volunteer with your family at a shelter or food pantry during

the busy holiday season. While serving or cooking food for

a holiday-themed meal at a shelter during Th anksgiving or

Christmas does not solve the larger problem, it will aff ect

every person whose life you touch that day. Your eff orts and

kind words can become a fond, lifelong memory for a child, or

remind adults that others care and they’re not alone.

Volunteering also has personal benefi ts, not the least of which

is knowing that, despite whatever problems you’re facing, you

were able to help someone else.

Maddi’s FridgeTh is children’s book, by author Lois Brandt, calls attention to the

issue of childhood hunger that is everywhere in our community.

Written for ages 4 to 8, the book will spark real discussion about

compassion and how children can help a friend in this situation.

In the story, Sofi a and Maddi live in the same neighborhood,

play in the same park, and go to the same school. But while

Sofi a’s fridge at home is full, Maddi’s fridge is empty – white

empty – with just a small container of milk. Sofi a promises

Maddi she won’t tell, but learns a lesson when she sneaks fi sh

and eggs for Maddi in her backpack. Despite Sofi a’s very best

eff orts, Maddi’s fridge is still empty. 10% of profi ts are donated

to help fi ght childhood hunger.

In addition to the book, the website MaddisFridge.com has

suggestions for kids on how to fi ght hunger, games and activities.

Th e book is available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com.

20 Fall Issue 2014

Th e most promising approach to the control of cancer is a national commitment to prevention. New England Journal of Medicine, 1997

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Th is

topic begs for a considerable discussion of the many approaches

for prevention. I say this because every time I read an article on

Breast Cancer, it seems to swing toward “Early Detection.”

Let me assure you Early Detection is not PREVENTION! Recent

studies have shown that cancers, such as breast, can begin to

develop anywhere between 10-40 years before they are diagnosed.

(Blaylock, M.D., 2005).  

One thing is for certain: more fast food and chocolate candies

won’t lead you down the road to cancer prevention. And although

this is contrary to everything you’ve been taught and may even be

diffi cult to believe, more testing has also been found not to be the

answer. So what’s a girl to do? Not that I’m a girl, but my years

in private practice have taught me several things women can start

doing right now to create true prevention for themselves.

Stop using topical (skin) products that contain Sodium Laurel

Sulfate. Th is is a common “frothing or foaming” agent that has been

shown to cause cancer. Please be aware, the skin, or integument

system, is your largest defense organ (second to the gut or

G.I. system) and absorbs water and other nutrients. Th erefore

anything you put on your skin can be absorbed into the body.

In my opinion, if it has been shown to cause cancer, it DOES

NOT GO ON my skin.

Stop using artifi cial sweeteners, especially saccharine (pink

packet). Artifi cial sweeteners are chemicals in all forms. Blue,

pink or yellow- they are all ARTIFICIAL. Saccharine by itself

has been shown to cause cancer. In my opinion, if it has been

shown to cause cancer, it DOES NOT GO IN my body.

Breast Cancer:Breast Cancer:True PreventonTrue Preventon Purchase a Chlorine fi lter for your shower and home. Chlorine

competes with iodine for uptake and usage by your thyroid

gland. In other words, your thyroid gland uses iodine to make

thyroid hormones. When your skin is exposed to and absorbs

Chlorine (from drinking water, showers or pools) the thyroid

gland doesn’t get enough iodine because the Chlorine inhibits it.

Th erefore, you can’t make the necessary thyroid hormones

(problem#1) and your hormone system is thrown out of balance

(problem #2). Th is endocrine disruption increases your risk of all

cancers. You can purchase a Chlorine fi lter for your shower and

home online fairly easily.

Limit exposure to environmental toxins such as Biphenol A

(BPA). BPA is an environmental toxin found in carbonate plastics

and epoxy resins that cause cancer through endocrine disruption.

It can be commonly found in many consumer products from

eyeglasses to recycled plastic bags to cans that hold food. If at all

possible, limit exposure to household cleaning agents and plastics.

BPA can be released into food if you are storing food and/or

heating it up within plastic containers that contain BPA. Look

for BPA free containers and water bottles and reduce exposure

as necessary.

Get adjusted, it’s not just for neck and back pain. Dr. Rod

Perue from NYU’s medical research team has shown that

patients under chiropractic care have immune system function

300% above normal. Since cancer is a disease of the immune

system, it stands to reason that you want to do everything you

can to boost immune response. Regular chiropractic adjustments

have been shown time and time again to “turbo charge” you

immune system. Get adjusted!

As a doctor, as a patient, I understand that it is easier to stay well than

to get well. As our knowledge in understanding the function of the

body advances, we as health care professionals realize that the body

is self-healing and self regulating and that the true cure comes from

doing everything you can to prevent it in the fi rst place. Th at, instead

of waiting until you are diagnosed with a problem, makes you live a

proactive life. Please learn to be proactive with your family’s health

instead of reactive. Th is is the key to “reset” your body’s ability to heal

function and operate. My goal for all patients and family members

that I am blessed to serve on a daily basis is to transform their

concept of health in an eff ort to transform their lives. Blessings to all.

Dr. Christopher Hood is the author of three books. His most recent book, True Wellness is available at Amazon.com and on Kindle. He speaks locally and na onally to audiences on the subject of health, including pastors who are looking to create a wellness program for their congrega ons. Dr. Hood can also be heard on his weekly radio show “Original Health” every Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. on WTIS, AM 1110.

By DR. CHRISTOPHER HOOD

21Fall Issue 2014

people

22 Fall Issue 2014

Nicole Marchman:Nicole Marchman: Bringing Light out of the DarknessBy PAMELA SETTLE

Since the beginning of time, man has fought the battle between

good and evil. It’s a constant throughout history, a subject of

religion and ethics and the basis for literature and art. Because it

is an internal battle as well as an external battle, and part of the

human/spiritual connection, we will always have good vs. evil

in our lives. As much as we want to focus only on the good, we

cannot fully appreciate the good unless we see the other side.

Some of us see more evil than others. Nicole Marchman has

seen more than her fair share. Her childhood story will make you

cringe, or perhaps cry. However, that is not the part of the story

she wants you to remember. She wants you to see in her the real

promise of hope and healing that is possible for everyone, no

matter the depth of the pain, no matter the evil that has crossed

your path, no matter how lonely, ashamed or desperate you are.

Nicole grew up in the Greenwood neighborhood of Clearwater.

She knows the physical beatings started when she was a baby

and by age 4 was molested by her father every day for the next

seven years. Her mother was beaten severely, too, and Nicole

nursed her mother’s injuries instead of the other way around.

What little food they had in the house went to her dad fi rst,

leaving nothing behind for anyone else. “I learned how to steal

food so we wouldn’t starve,” she says quietly.

Her father was an angry man, a product of an abusive home

where dad beat mom and then mom beat dad. Nicole says she

learned later on about his past and his resentment toward women;

along with a deep desire to force women into submission. Nicole’s

mother came from an abusive home as well. But that’s where the

history lesson about abuse stopped, because her grandparents

refused to talk about it, because that’s how it is for the older

generations. She says this knowledge, however limited, was

important to her eventual healing.

At age 11, Nicole started her journey through 16 foster homes

and three group homes. Her parents lost parental rights when

she was 16. Th e counseling she received in the system was “just

okay” she said. “It’s forced counseling, more about what my

parents did to me and not about how I was surviving. And if you

don’t have an open mind for the counseling, it won’t work.”

Despite her rocky childhood, Nicole’s strength of spirit got her into

college to pursue a degree in social work. She was newly married

and it was during some of her classes that she realized that she had

entered into an abusive relationship. “At fi rst it was psychological

and emotional abuse. My new knowledge empowered me so I

stood up for myself and that’s when the physical abuse started.”

Th ere were thoughts of murder and suicide. Th e desperate scenes

of domestic violence were repeated again and again. He held a

gun to her head. He broke her eardrum with a punch. “I looked at

him and I could see my dad. I looked at myself and remembered

that I said I would never be like my mother. Th en one day I had

a gun and I wondered if he would even miss me. I cried out to

God asking Him to pull me out. I told Him that I would use my

pain to help others if He would get me out.”

Four months later Nicole was nominated to travel to Washington DC

to work on a project regarding foster children who age out of

the system. “I was supposed to be there for six weeks and stayed

for ten months.” It was here that Nicole could fi nally see herself

through the eyes of strangers, as a capable, independent person

who didn’t live with violence. She went into counseling and also

got a divorce. She was accepted into an MSW program and

studied European foster care in Czechoslovakia and then did her

fi eld studies in Trinidad/Tobago.

During this time two pivotal events changed her course. She

traveled home to say good-bye to her mother who died at the age

of 49 from a worn and beaten body. Before she passed, she told

Nicole about her own childhood and she asked for forgiveness.

Nicole says this time with her mother allowed her to cross over

to real healing. She realized that she couldn’t bury the pain with

her; that the pain had to be dealt with before she could move on.

Th is journey to move past her pain resulted in her starting a book

that would not only help her heal, but would be the launching

point of a life dedicated to helping others overcome their pain.

Studying to be a social worker gave Nicole insight and knowledge

that most abuse survivors don’t get. She combined her professional

training with her undying faith to keep her promise to God. Th e

23Fall Issue 2014

memoir called, Unbreakable Spirit Arises: From Broken Girl to Resilient Woman was

released in 2013. In addi-

tion to the book telling her

personal story, it is meant to

be a platform for others to

use on their healing journey.

She discusses trauma, the

path to forgiveness, and

what it means to mask the

pain. Th e book is meant for

adults who have been or are

in the middle of an abusive

relationship of any kind. It’s

also informative for social

workers, teachers or foster

parents who care for children

who have been abused.

Completing this book moved her quickly from broken victim to

victorious advocate.

She started a new ministry called the None Lost Movement

by working with a 501(c)(3) called the Underground Network.

Th e Underground Network serves an umbrella organization

to launch new ministries by providing an administrative home

along with professional assistance with training, budgeting

and business planning for two years until the organization can

operate independently. Nicole says this organization, based out of

Tampa, has 120 micro churches working in their global network

in the areas of human traffi cking and working with at risk kids,

among many others. Hers is the fi rst domestic violence ministry

in the network.

Th e mission of the None Lost Movement is to provide ongoing

outreach to the community. Th e strategy is to consistently toss

the net wide into the community through speaking engagements,

classes, community events and her radio show, heard twice a

month on WTIS AM 1110. Th rough the outreach, she will

invite others to attend her conferences.

Th e None Lost Movement is hosting a more intimate and

in-depth conference every three months to lift up and inspire

change for abusers and victims of domestic violence. Th e fi rst

conference, called Speak Up and Speak Out: Break the Silence

of Domestic Violence is October 25 at the Old Landmark

Cathedral in St. Petersburg from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is open

to anyone who wants to learn about domestic abuse, including

social workers, teachers, foster parents, friends, abusers and

victims. If you miss this workshop, there will be one every three

months. Follow None Lost Movement Ministry on Facebook to

learn about the workshop schedule.

From the community outreach and quarterly conferences,

Nicole’s next step is private, individual counseling for those who

want to get in deep to overcome their personal pain.

“Pain is like a garden. If the soil is dry, you’re not ready to let your fl owers grow. You’ll continue to suff er. Fixing the surface isn’t enough, you have to dig in and heal all the way down. It’s something you can’t do alone, you need help.”

Outside of Nicole’s ministry, she is contracted with the Department

of Juvenile Justice to teach a monthly class to juvenile batterers.

Nicole also partners with T.O.R.C.H. (Taking Opportunities to

Reach Compelling Heights), an organization that works with

women released from prison and young people aging out of the

foster care system who fi nd themselves homeless and vulnerable

to all sorts of troubles like drugs and human traffi cking. Learn

more about their eff orts at TorchIgnited.org.

If you’d like to know more about Nicole and the None Lost

Movement, visit her website at NicoleMarchman.com. Here you can

contact her about scheduling one of her many seminars for your

youth group, church group or event. Her book is also available at

the website for purchase or at Amazon.com.

Th e fi rst time I met Nicole, her eyes were shining. She stood

tall and spoke articulately about her ministry and social work

career. Like many of the leaders I meet in the community, I was

impressed by her sincerity and devotion. Th en I heard her tell

the rest of the story and was completely torn apart by it. First, I

ached for the battered child and then I rejoiced for the woman

who is the epitome of resiliency. She came from the darkest of

dark places, alone and beaten down for 27 years. You would never

know that by looking at her. She attributes her light today to an

inner light that never went out, never abandoned her and is still

with her guiding her steps.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. However domestic

violence is occurring in our community 12 months a year, 365 days

in a row, and is often invisible. Nicole and others like her need you

to take up this cause. Volunteer and fundraising opportunities are

throughout our community at shelters, ministries, foster care

organizations and more. Please get involved and share your light

to end the darkness!

24 Fall Issue 2014

EDITORIAL

November 4th is Coming. Are You Ready?By PAMELA SETTLE

Do you know the issues on the ballot? Do you know what

the candidates stand for and which ones you will support

with your vote? Are you at least planning to vote?

If not, why? Th e words voter apathy are thrown around

quite a bit. So if apathy is lack of interest, lack of enthu-

siasm and lack of concern, are today’s citizens not interested,

not enthusiastic or not concerned about the pertinent

political issues of the day? Is it true that we are more inter-

ested to vote for an American Idol than for an American

running for public offi ce?

Or is it a feeling of powerlessness? Do you feel pushed away by

the system that answers to corporate interests? Is it hopelessness?

Do you feel like our one vote doesn’t matter? Or are you too busy

trying to survive economics, jobs, relationships and kids to pay

attention? In any of these cases, you abdicate your power to those

who will vote, hoping they will make the right decisions.

Whatever the reason, I hope you’ll rethink your position on voting

and vote on November 4th. We have some important statewide

issues and races on the ballot and the votes cast in Pinellas County

carry enough weight to swing a race one way or another.

Nationally, we have one congressional seat up for grabs in District

13. On the state scene, there are three constitutional amendments

proposed to the Florida Constitution along with Governor, Attorney

General, Chief Financial Offi cer and Commissioner of Agriculture.

Several seats for our local delegation to the state’s house and senate

are up for grabs and if you don’t think these races are important,

consider the state issues we have in regards to taxation, educa-

tion, insurance, jobs, healthcare and the recent state of aff airs

with Duke Energy. As citizens, these individuals are the closest

we get to decisions made in Tallahassee. We need to make sure

the people elected are the ones listening at home and not in the

halls and back rooms.

Several local races are on the ballot too. We have

two county commission seats up for election, as well

as two school board seats, judges, city offi ces, city

charter amendments and the highly promoted county

referendum that if passed will permanently raise our

county sales tax 1 percent, to a new rate of 8 percent,

the highest in Florida.

Every single one of these choices sets us in a direc-

tion, one way or another. As parents we need to be

informed and involved in these decisions and we need to vote.

On this ballot, there is one issue in particular that has direct implications

when it comes to the well being of our kids. As an advocate for children,

I am standing with our law enforcement agencies and drug prevention

agencies and voting NO on Amendment 2. I watched my own

mother suff er for two decades with a debilitating disease. No

one has more sympathy than I do when it comes to caring for

those in pain. However, the status of marijuana has no place as a

constitutional amendment. Instead we should work through the

legislative process to fi nd a responsible, manageable solution that

doesn’t put our young people at risk.

On the education front, I want to call attention to a teacher

from Gainesville who is leading a campaign of parents and

teachers who are calling for reform when it comes to the exces-

sive amount of testing happening in our schools. Susan Bowles

has successfully raised this issue, taking it straight to Governor

Scott, and now she needs other concerned parents and teachers

to get involved. Follow their activities on Facebook. Search for Be Bowled Movement.

Reminds me of the famous Margaret Mead quote, “Never doubt that

a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world;

indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” If you have something to say,

fi nd a way to say it. Th ere is no time like the present.

“Let each citizen remember at the moment he is off ering his vote that he is not making a present or a compliment to please an individual - or at least that he ought not so to do; but that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country.”

John Adams,founding father and co-author of the Declaration of Independence

26 Fall Issue 2014

As parents, we all strive to have children with proper manners,

right? Well, easier said than done!

Th e holidays are quickly approaching, (when did that happen?),

and you will most likely be attending at least one sit down dinner

and multiple parties, one of which will probably involve a gift

exchange. You are excited to go, but hope and pray your off spring

do not embarrass you.

Th at’s a tall order – but have no fear…the Mommy Master®

is here! With a lot of patience, a lot of love and perhaps a little

wine (for you of course), your kiddos will be mastering their

manners in no time.

So how can we guarantee that others will be raving how well-

mannered our children are this holiday season? In other words,

how do we ensure our kids will make us look good? While there

are never any guarantees when it comes to children, these tips,

tricks and tools will have your toddlers, teens and in-betweens,

prepped and ready for all the holiday festivities coming your way.

Manners Start at Home • Use mealtime to teach what is acceptable behavior and what is not

• If your child burps, explain that it is a normal function,

however off er alternative solutions for them:

• Excusing themselves quietly to another room.

• Performing the deed into their elbow, followed by an

“excuse me.”

• As you are discussing your day, ask your children what

manners they exhibited at school and share your examples as well:

• Your child has a cold and remembered to cover their

mouth when they coughed.

• Your little one raised their hand and waited for the teacher

to call on them.

• You held the door for someone behind you.

• You accidently bumped into someone at work and said,

“pardon me.”

Mastering your Child’s Manners for the Holidaysby ELLIE HIRSCH, founder of MommyMasters.com

Take into Account How Old Your Children are and Plan Your Lessons Accordingly • With younger children, focus on the basics.

• You do not need to teach a three year old the proper way

to hold a fork and knife.

• Teach your toddlers to use a napkin instead of their clothes

• Make sure you have patience and realize you will have to

repeat these instructions multiple times to see results.

• With older children, observe fi rst.

• Provide constructive criticism or positive reinforcement

when appropriate.

• Discuss expectations and consequences of bad manners.

• Educate them that they are role models for younger siblings.

Reach Your Child on an Emotional Level • Explain the why of saying “thank you:”

• Someone is doing something nice for us.

• We want to ensure we recognize their eff orts.

• It makes people feel good when they are appreciated.

• It will make your child feel proud to make others feel valued.

Make Learning Fun and Creative • Plan a fun pre-holiday party at home to test out everyone’s

manners and make a game of it.

• Everyone has to demonstrate three manners appropriate

for their age:

• Complimenting your dress.

• Inquiring if you need help setting up.

• Chewing with their mouths closed.

• Keeping food on the plate.

• Exhibit bad manners to see if your child can point them

out and correct them:

• Lick the plate after fi nishing the meal.

• Prepare a refreshment without off ering one.

• Interrupt a conversation.

• Ignore a sneeze.

• Place your fi ngers in your cup to wash off grime.

• Utilize audio and visual tools to teach your child:

• Sing, dance and learn to music that is educational and

focuses on manners.

• “Music is Magical, Children’s Songs with Ellie,” a

Parents’ Choice Award winner, is a wonderful resource.

• Books off er a wonderful variety of stories and lessons.

If You Have a Young One and Expect Them to Behave, Take Preventative Measures: • Even if you are heading to a holiday dinner party, feed your

child ahead of time.

• Your child may not like the food being served.

• Your child will prefer to be playing instead of focusing on eating.

• You want to ensure you can sit down and enjoy your meal.

• If you know it is going to be a late evening, shift your child’s

nap schedule back.

• Bring appropriate toys or books that will keep your child

occupied if they get bored and cranky.

27Fall Issue 2014

When it comes to gifts this holiday season, our kids are surely

hoping they receive everything on their wish list. However, there

are always those presents that leave us with a puzzled look. Let’s

face it. Kids are honest, unfi ltered and say it like it is. We love

this innocent quality but it can leave us parents feeling mortifi ed

and without words.

Prepare Your Children When it Comes to Gift Etiquette • If a gift gets a thumbs down, save the negative sentiments for home.

• It is good party protocol to be grateful and show respect.

• Someone spent the time to buy a gift and it is the thought

that counts.

• A bad gift is a great opportunity to teach your child about

giving back:

• Instead of returning an unwanted gift, donate it.

• Choose a charity together with your child.

Th e parties, schmoozing and food you regret you ate but would not

hesitate do it again, is over. You are left with an extra ten pounds and

an abundance of presents, which means lots of thank you’s that need

to be communicated to family and friends. A store bought card will

of course suffi ce, but does not take much thought or eff ort. What are

some other child friendly options to show thankfulness?

Nothing Says Appreciation Like Homemade and Imaginative Gratitude Gifts• Sends the message that your child cares, took the time and is

truly thankful.

• Makes a wonderful project for you and your child to do together.

• Th ank you ideas do not have to cost a lot of money:

• Pictures from a holiday party can be used to create a

picture frame.

• Personalize a travel or coff ee mug with holiday themed decorations

• Create a homemade card using items you most likely

already have, including construction paper, stickers and markers.

• Technology has allowed us to be creative and quick with our

communications.

• Send a personalized video thank you card.

• Film a short video of your little one playing with their

gift on your smart phone.

• Your child can thank the recipient in the video and tell

them why they love the gift.

When our children do not exhibit good manners, we tend to

scold or even punish them. It is important we look at ourselves as

parents, because we are the ultimate role models. It is our job to

show them and lead by example, not just tell them.

Practice What You Preach • Do you expect certain manners from your children but not of yourself?

• Are you respectful to your spouse or partner, especially in front

of your children?

• When you perform a good deed, share with your children and

teach them with your actions.

• If you witness someone demonstrating good manners towards

you in front of your children, point them out.

• If you witness someone who is not using good manners in

front of your children, point them out and use as a teaching

moment.

Nothing pleases a parent more than having someone come up

to you to praise your child’s manners. It is like a reward or a

paycheck, knowing that your child actually is listening to you and

putting your teachings into use.

Why is it so Important to Raise Well-Mannered Children? • Well-mannered children grow up to be well-mannered adults.

• When children display good manners, it is easier and less

stressful for parents and teachers to do their jobs, which

creates a more eff ective environment.

It is never too late to help your children mind their manners.

Remember to stay patient, practice what you preach and be

prepared! When those holiday invites come pouring in soon,

your kids (and you) will be ready to impress!

About the AuthorEllie Hirsch is the founder of MommyMasters®, a resource for parents off ering unique ps, tricks and tools, including her children’s CD, a Parents’ Choice Award winner. Known as The Mommy Master®, Ellie is a published author, mommy blogger and mom to three amazing li le boys. Visit MommyMasters.com to master motherhood with Ellie.

28 Fall Issue 2014

Pinellas County Sheriffa note from the

Th e Internet is an information super highway that allows children

of all ages to connect through social media, chat rooms, websites

and blogs. Children use the web to surf various websites and stay

connected to friends, but every parent should be warned that

there are dangers that lurk on the other side of the computer

screen. Parents should be aware of which sites children are using,

and keep up to speed on the various forms of technology that

could potentially put their children at risk. Here at the Pinellas

County Sheriff ’s Offi ce, our main goal is to keep you and your

family safe, whether it’s on the street or from behind a computer.

Last month we again held a four day operation where investigators

posed as minors on various websites, including classifi ed pages,

social media and chat rooms. During the operation, investigators

established a rapport with the subjects where they would arrange

to meet with the “minor” for the purpose of sexual activity. Th is

is the third operation in Pinellas County this year targeting

online sexual predators who are trying to meet and have sex with

children. In each of the previous operations we have arrested in

excess of 20 people, and in the recent statewide Florida Sheriff ’s

Taskforce operation, over 130 people who were preying on kids

for sex were arrested.

During last month’s operation here

in Pinellas County, we arrested 10

people, which is signifi cantly less

than previous operations. Th is is good

news that law enforcement’s eff orts

are modifying the behavior of these

child sexual predators, who have been

seeking sex with minors through the

Internet.

Despite our progress, we will

continue to detect and arrest people

seeking sex with kids through the

Internet. We will protect our kids and

these operations will continue.

As a parent or grandparent, I hope

you will do your part to help protect

your kids from these crimes. Giving

our kids access to the Internet

without boundaries is like drop-

ping them off in a busy public park

and encouraging them to talk to strangers. Prepare your kids

and grandkids for appropriate internet use by following these

guidelines:

• Use built-in parental controls to block certain websites or

inappropriate content.

• Monitor what your kids do online, what information they

are sharing, and who they are communicating with.

• Limit Internet use to common areas of your home where

you can easily check on them.

Visit our website at PCSOweb.com to see our Parent’s Tool Kit.

Educate yourselves about the dangers your

kids face online, who they’re talking to and

how you can protect them.

Bob Gual eriSheriff , Pinellas County

31Fall Issue 2014

Juvenile Welfare BoardThe Children’s Services Council of Pinellas County

a note from

Self-Care Practicesfor Caregivers • Learn and use stress-reduction techniques such as

meditation, prayer, yoga or Tai Chi.

• Attend to your own healthcare needs.

• Get proper rest and nutrition.

• Exercise regularly, if only for 10 minutes at a time.

• Take time off without feeling guilty.

• Participate in pleasant, nurturing activities such as reading

a good book or taking a warm bath.

• Seek and accept the support of others.

• Seek supportive counseling when you need it, talk to a

trusted friend or pastor, or attend a kinship care support group.

• Identify and acknowledge your feelings – you have a right

to all of them.

• Adopt a strengths-based view on life – see the glass as “half

full” verse “half empty”.

• Set and keep goals; allow yourself to dream and look

forward to future plans.

• Seek Kinship Care Services by calling (888) 920-8761.

All Kids Matter.Kinship care refers to the full-time care, nurturing and protection

of a child by his or her grandparents or other kin. Across the

United States, more than 6 million children – approximately 1

in 12 – are being raised in households headed by grandparents

or other relatives and, in nearly half of these cases, the child’s

parent is not living in the home. In Florida, about 7% of all

children live in grandparent-headed households while another

estimated 3% are being raised by other relatives.

Children may come to live with a grandparent or other relative

in a number of ways, but only some of these involve the child

welfare system. A parent may leave children with a grandparent

while he or she is sent overseas, or perhaps an aunt may care

for a nephew or niece whose parents are ill or otherwise unable

to care for their children. In these cases, parents may retain

legal custody – or they may voluntarily sign this over to a

grandparent or other relative.

If there is involvement by the child welfare system, the placement of

the child in the relative’s home may be voluntary or involuntary;

in the latter, the state assumes legal custody of the child and

a judge, acting on behalf of the child, places the child with a

grandparent or other kin. Naturally, relatives are the preferred

living arrangement for children who must be removed from their

birth parents because it maintains their familial connections.

With so many grandparents and other relatives assuming child

rearing responsibilities without the child’s parent in the home,

kinship caregivers often lack information about the range of

support services, benefi ts and resources they need to fulfi ll their

caregiving role. Th ey likely had not planned to take on this role

and may be ill-prepared to handle the challenges. Plus, kinship

caregivers are at great risk for burnout, stress and fatigue.

But, there’s help. Th e Juvenile Welfare Board ( JWB) invests in

Kinship Care Services, as subcontracted with and operated by

Th e Children’s Home. Th ese services are designed to provide

support to Pinellas County grandparents and other kinship

caregivers by helping them connect to necessary services,

expand family support systems and reduce stress to promote

family stability. Th e program off ers in-home support services;

assistance in applying for public benefi ts; legal aid; respite care,

tutoring; support groups; and family enrichment activities.

Families can inquire about Kinship Care Services by calling

(888) 920-8761.

One of the most important things a caregiver can do is to

practice good self-care. Remember, self-care is never selfi sh; it’s

an important part of the job. Caring for yourself and making

your own health a top priority is the best way to nurture and

raise the children in your care. Th ere are several self-care

practices to consider that will help you be the best caregiver

you can be.

Because all children matter!

Sincerely,

Dr. Marcie Biddleman

Executive Director,

Juvenile Welfare Board

Information FairsPinellas County Schools has scheduled two District Application

Program Information Fairs in November to give parents and

prospective students a chance to talk with school representatives

about various application programs:

• Nov. 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

at Gibbs High, 850 34th St S. St. Petersburg

• Nov. 15 from 9 a.m. to noon

at Pinellas Park High, 6305 118th Ave. N, Largo

Additionally, schools that off er application programs will host their

own Discovery Nights between mid November and early January.

Dates for these events are available online at pcsb.org/choice.

Our goal is to provide our students

with the best possible learning experi-

ences. Th ank you for your involvement

in your child’s education. Together, we

can fulfi ll the district’s vision of 100

percent student success.

Sincerely, Michael A. Grego

Superintendent

Pinellas County Schoolsa note from

Dear GoodLiving Families,Pinellas County Schools off ers a wide variety of high-quality

programs designed to inspire students and provide them with the

skills they need to achieve success in college, career and life. I invite

you to explore the District Application Programs, which off er

a variety of educational opportunities to suit your child’s special

talents, abilities and interests. Th ere are programs at all grade levels.

I invite you to attend one of the Parent Information Sessions,

where you can learn more about the application process. I also

encourage you to attend one of the Information Fairs. Th ese

comprehensive events give parents and students opportunities to

meet program representatives and obtain more information about

programs that interest them. Please feel free to contact individual

schools to fi nd out more about Discovery Nights and school

tours. For additional information about District Application

Programs and events, visit pcsb.org/choice.

District Application Program Processes,

Timeline and Parent Information SessionsTh ese sessions will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the school

auditoriums at the following locations and on the following dates:

• Nov. 4: Boca Ciega High, 924 58th St S, Gulfport

• Nov. 6: Countryside High, 3000 State Road 580, Clearwater

• Nov. 10: Pinellas Park High, 6305 118th Ave. N, Largo.

Fall BringsPositiveChangesBy LARRY POLNICKY

Fall is here and it’s a wonderful time of year,

as the relentless heat begins to subside

and we head into the holiday season. But

the best thing we see this time of year are

the changes made by kids enrolled in the

Brain Balance program. It takes only a few

weeks for the natural, drug-free stimulation

to work and for parents to start looking

forward to that fi rst report card.

The education system is meant to be

stimulating. Think of all those new words

and concepts we were exposed to each

school year. Academic stimulation is an

important part of brain development, but is

it enough? Activities such as music, art and

physical education are also very important

for brain growth and development, but we

see schools increasingly curtailing these

programs as funds become limited.

Making up for these defi cits is the mission

of the Brain Balance Achievement Center.

It is an intensive program that encourages

brain growth using music and sound, visual

tools, physical exercises, academic exercises

and nutrition. As an after school program,

it is the perfect complement to the facts

and fi gures learned in the schoolroom.

Shouldn’t a child’s education be complete?

Brain Balance completes the process.

For those who have counselors, teachers

or doctors recommending medications

for your student to solve challenges, we

invite you to come for a free consultation

to discuss how our program may eliminate

the need for medications.

Parents, instead of dreading that fi rst fall re-

port card, look forward to a school year with

your child on a diff erent path, the path to

success! Here are some true success stories of

children who have completed our program:

Conner, Age 10We have a 10 year old son with sensory,

processing, behavior, and health issues. He had

most of these issues since birth. The older he

got, the more certain we became these issues

were not getting better and some getting

worse despite all the therapists, tutoring, and

private schools we paid for.

The fi rst thing we noticed was the improvement

in his health a couple weeks in to the program

because of his diet and nutritional supplements.

His stomach issues were much better. Shortly

after that, we saw improvement in his behavior.

He was much happier and less emotional. Half

way through we noticed he was communicat-

ing much better, making eye contact, and more

outgoing. In the last couple of weeks, it all came

together. Now other people were noticing his

changes because they were that obvious.

We feel like for so long, his identity was trapped

inside because he was dealing with so many dif-

ferent issues at one time. Now that he has gradu-

ated from Brain Balance, he is fi nally who he is

supposed to be. He is healthier, happier, and more

confi dent. He continues to progress in school and

we know that he is only going to continue to get

improve with time.

Thank you everyone at Brain Balance for all

your hard work. You all made such a diff er-

ence in our son’s life. Sky’s the limit for him now

and you help make that possible!!!

Alex, ADHD, age 13I feel that I improved much during the BB pro-

gram. My head isn’t racing a hundred miles

per hour anymore. I feel much more calm, not

as many questions or list making. I don’t yell

as much, and don’t demand answers. I eat

better, and I feel more healthy overall. I feel

like I can play sports even better, and I make

friends much easier too.

Even without identifying the exact cause of

these diffi culties, we do know a lot about

what the problem is, and fortunately, how

to address it. The symptoms or condition

can be reversed or signifi cantly improved

with proper nutrition, adequate activity lev-

els, a restriction of electronics and the one-

of-a-kind brain stimulation they receive at

a Brain Balance Achievement Center. Every

child is unique, and that’s why we address

every child individually with our compre-

hensive evaluation and lesson planning.

Find out more by attending a free parent

event 6:00 PM, Tuesday, 9/16/2014 at

the Brain Balance Center located at 4022

Tampa RD, Suite 6, Oldsmar, FL. Or call

us at 813-749-0872 to arrange a per-

sonal tour and free, no obligation, private

consultation. Or visit us on the web at

brainbalancecenters.com to read articles,

research papers and parent testimonials.

Larry Polnicky is the owner of the Brain

Balance Achievement Center in Oldsmar.

His son Ben has autism and showed signifi -

cant improvements after completing the

program at a center in Atlanta. So moved

by how this program changed their

lives, it became his calling to help other

children by opening a center in Florida.

Larry is involved in the local community

and founded The Children’s Achievement

Foundation to raise scholarship money for

families who need assistance to participate

in alternative programs.

34 Fall Issue 2014

Are the holidays ruining your children’s nutrition?

Often times during the holidays we allow our children (and ourselves)

to splurge a little when it comes to treats. But is this tradition worse

than we suspect? How is this aff ecting your children’s nutrition,

behavior, and immune system?

Th e average person eats 153 pounds of sugar a year,

which is equivalent to over half a cup a day. Th e average teenage

boy eats twice as much sugar than any other age or gender. Th at

puts him at over a cup of sugar a day. From the time we come

into this world to the time we leave, sweeteners are present in

most of our diets. Th e fi rst non-milk food that a baby is likely

to receive in North American hospitals is a 5-percent glucose-

and-water solution (IV). Some baby milk formulas still contain

sugar or high fructose corn syrup. A common reward system for

children involves sugary treats; “Eat your dinner and you will get

your dessert.” Some classes reward children with candy when

they have fi nished an assignment or have not disturbed the class.

Children even sell sugary products, such as Girl Scout cookies

and sweet morsels at church bake sales. Th e list goes on.

Obesity in children now is a problem worldwide. Signifi cant factors

infl uencing fat and weight gain include increased watching television,

fast food dining, and poor physical education programs at school.

Only 36 percent of our children are in a daily athletic program at

school. Children should learn lifelong habits at home to reduce the

problems of obesity and the health related problems that go with it.

With so many foods to choose from, it’s no wonder parents are

confused. One thing is for sure, there are certain ingredients that

must be avoided without exception. Some ingredients even in small

amounts can do extensive damage to a healthy child. Th ese ingredients

can disrupt hormones and change body chemistry in a negative way.

With childhood cancers on the rise and early-onset diabetes and

other conditions (not heard of in our generation and our parent’s

generation), we must seriously evaluate everything we feed to our

children starting in infancy. As they say, we are what we eat!

Sugar and Spice and things not so nice

by DR. THERESA HARTLEY INGREDIENTS to Avoid:Artifi cial SweetenersAspartame, also known as Nutrasweet, Equal, and Splenda (aka

Sucralose) side eff ects have been strongly linked to psychological

problems including severe depression and sleep disorders, increased

rates of autoimmune disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus,

Diabetes and others. Th e biggest insult is that use of Splenda

has been linked to – you guessed it – weight gain. All artifi cial

sweeteners are bad news.

High Fructose Corn SyrupHigh fructose corn syrup (HFCS) increases your LDL (“bad”)

cholesterol levels and contributes to the development of diabetes.

A study conducted at the University of South Carolina found

that children, hyperactive or not, who consumed large amounts

of sugar behaved in a more destructive and reckless manner.

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)MSG is used as a fl avor enhancer. It is an excitotoxin, a type

of neurotoxin that essentially excites your brain cells to death.

It has profound eff ects on the mood and behavior of chil-

dren in particular. MSG is found in most fast foods as well as

processed meats, frozen meals, soup mixes, salad dressings and

many other processed foods.

Common Food DyesArtifi cial colorings may contribute to behavioral problems in

children and lead to a signifi cant reduction in IQ.

Citrus Red #2: It’s toxic to rodents at modest levels and

caused tumors of the urinary bladder and possibly other

organs. What it’s in: skins of Florida oranges.

Green #3 (Fast Green): Caused signifi cant increases in

bladder and testicular tumors in male rats. What it’s in: drugs, personal care products, cosmetic products except in eye area, candies, beverages, ice cream, sorbet, ingested drugs and exter-nally applied cosmetics.

Red #40 (Allura Red): Th is is the most-widely used and

consumed dye. It causes hypersensitivity (allergy-like) reac-

tions in some consumers and might trigger hyperactivity in

children. What it’s in: beverages, bakery goods, dessert powders, candies, cereals, foods, drugs and cosmetics.

Yellow #5 (Tartrazine): Yellow 5 causes sometimes-severe

hypersensitivity reactions and might trigger hyperactivity and

other behavioral eff ects in children. What it’s in: numerous bakery goods, beverages, dessert powders, candies, cereals, gelatin desserts, and many other foods, as well as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

35Fall Issue 2014

ABOUT THE AUTHORDr. Th eresa Hartley is the owner of the Hartley Chiropractic Center, which is now also an Elevation

Health offi ce. Th is makes the practice part of an international system of principled chiropractic facilities

whose purpose is to educate people on how to proactively care for their bodies. Dr. Hartley earned her

Doctorate of Chiropractic from the esteemed Palmer College of Chiropractic. She cares for family

members from infants to seniors using treatments that are age-specifi c and address the cause of the

symptoms, not just the symptoms alone. Dr. Hartley is certifi ed in the Webster Technique, a treatment

sought by expectant mothers to help to keep the pelvis properly balanced throughout the term of the

pregnancy. Dr. Hartley sees patients in the offi ce at 2653 Ulmerton Road in Clearwater, Florida and

speaks publicly to groups, churches, corporations, and through radio and television about the message

of true health and healing. Contact her at (727) 623-0992 for more information.

With so many common children’s food containing many

of these ingredients, what should a parent do? Th e holidays

can be an especially hard time because eating out of the house

is a much more common theme.

Here are some things you can do

to protect your family:

PLAN!Failing to plan is planning to fail! Set aside a specifi c time each

week to review the events that your family is participating in.

Th is will allow you to plan meals and snacks accordingly. If you

know your child has a class party, make sure their meals before

and after are fi lled with colorful, no sugar options such as lean

proteins and fun veggies. Even better – send a healthy snack your

child likes with them to the party (if allowed).

Do you know your family will be attending a holiday party?

Plan to eat a full meal before going to the party and have a

conversation about how many treats are allowed before entering

the festivities. Th is will stop both children and adults from

making bad decisions.

INCREASE!Increase veggies and fruits at other meals to allow for the

increase in sugar. A great idea is a smoothie for breakfast. Many

children will be able to get several servings of veggies in a

smoothie without even knowing it!

MOVE!Make family exercise a part of the holiday season. Instead of

driving around to look at lights, why not take a walk? What

about a family bike ride every Saturday and Sunday morning?

Not only will outdoor activity allow you to burn off those extra

calories and get some much needed sunshine, it will ingrain

healthy habits into your children that will last a lifetime! Who

knows, it might even become a favorite family tradition.

SLEEP!Although it is very tempting to let an event or occasion run past

bedtime, keeping a routine during this busy season can make

huge impacts on behavior and your children’s immune function.

Leaving a holiday party before it is over to allow your children

enough sleep will make you a very happy parent the next day.

FUNCTION!Keep your families bodies functioning optimally! Th e International

Chiropractic Pediatric Association has initiated a ground breaking

study on the safety and eff ectiveness of chiropractic care for children.

Th e results are outstanding and show that chiropractic care is safe

for children. Even more signifi cant is that parents reported three

unexpected improvements with their child’s care:

• Improved sleeping

• Improved behavior and attitude

• Improved immune system function (less sicknesses and

less amount of time a child had symptoms)

A little eff ort goes a long way! Implement these tips to ensure a

healthy stress free holiday season!

Sources: eleva onhealth.com/loca on/clearwater-chiropractor-theresa-hartley/page/3/

Food Ma ers November 24, 2010icpa4kids.com/research/updates/archives/Research_Update_008.htm

36 Fall Issue 2014

By SHERYL CONRAD

In Recognition of National Caregiver Month and all the Working Moms who are also Caregivers.

Balancing a Career and Family as aCaregiver Presents aWhole New Set of Challenges to Working Women

Unpaid caregivers provide an estimated 90% of the long-term

care in this country, and the majority of caregivers are women,

according to the Institute of Medicine. Th e National Alliance

for Caregiving reports that the “typical caregiver” is a 46 year-old

woman with some college experience and provides more than 20

hours of care each week to her mother.

Caregiving can be stressful as well as a fi nancial hardship with

reduced work hours, family leave or early retirement. It’s no surprise

that caregivers report having a decline in their own physical, mental

and emotional health. Working moms are accustomed to putting

others fi rst, however, our good health is essential to those who

depend on us. Seeking out support can help you strike a balance

and avoid the burnout that many caregivers experience.

Fortunately, we have some great resources

in our own backyard:

Suncoast Hospice off ers a variety of groups, training and other

events for caregivers located in Pinellas County. According to Kathy

Rabon, Executive Director of Suncoast Hospice Foundation and

founding member of AchieveHERS, “Suncoast Hospice and its new

brand, Empath Health, provides much more than end-of-life care

for patients and support for their caregivers. We also off er palliative

home health, independent living assistance and day care for seniors,

advance care planning and more. By off ering a comprehensive

approach through compassionate care, Empath Health provides

hope, inspiration and innovative services for the entire family.

Linda Burhans, a national speaker and expert on Caregiver

Advocacy, provides workshops and support groups through Tampa

Bay. Having been a caregiver herself, she off ers the following

“nuggets” to caregivers on her website, LindaBurans.com. Th ey

include, eat healthy, get plenty of rest, set boundaries, communicate your

needs and concerns, keep your sense of humor and journal your feelings.

Seek out support in your workplace, too. Many employers have

found that adopting workplace policies supporting caregivers can

increase employee morale and productivity. Ask your employer

about the following:

Flexible work schedules. Is fl ex-time available? Could you

work from home part of the time? Is telecommuting an option?

Leave policies & FMLA. Not all employers are required to

comply with FMLA, so it’s a good idea to understand what your

employer is prepared to off er should there be a need to take a

leave of absence.

Employee Assistance Program (EAPs) can provide you

with counseling, legal and fi nancial referrals, eldercare and childcare

referrals, in addition to putting you in touch with non-profi t or

charitable organizations that can provide aid.

Dependent Care Accounts can be used to fund certain types

of dependent care with pre-tax dollars.

Long Term Care Insurance can cover a large portion of your

caregiving expense. Some group policies allow you to purchase

coverage for you, your spouse, and in some cases for your parents.

In addition, some of the insurance providers off er caregiving

support services to you.

Worksite benefi ts, such as Critical Illness and Cancer indem-

nity policies commonly off ered by AFLAC or Colonial Life, off er

a cash benefi t to the insured upon diagnosis of a serious medical

condition, many of which require some level of caregiving.

As draining as it can be at times, caregiving can also be very

rewarding. Remember to give yourself some credit – you are

being selfl ess and doing one of the most diffi cult and important

jobs in the world. Th ose of us around you recognize that and we

are ready to support you!

If you are a working woman, plan to join others like you at the AchieveHers Signature Luncheon on November 6, 2014. Jaynie Smith will present, “The Competitive Advantage.” More info at AchieveHers.org.

Brenda Watson, C.N.C.

President, ReNew Life Formulas

Digestive Care Expert

New York Times Best-Selling Author

Public Television Health Educator

Most people will be caregivers at some point in

their lives. Whether it’s caring for children or

elderly parents, or both, it can take a toll on the

caregiver. Research shows that most caregivers

for the elderly are middle age, and 61% of

them are women. One thing that women who

care for their children, spouse or parents tend

to do is focus all their attention on caregiving,

and very little on caring for themselves.

Support Your Health from the Inside OutIf you’re a caregiver, you need to stay healthy so you can perform your

duties. Th e foundation for overall health is found in your digestive

tract. When you optimize your digestive health, your overall health will

improve. One simple, yet important thing caregivers can do for themselves

is to take a daily probiotic. Our bodies are naturally fi lled with trillions

of good bacteria that help us maintain a balanced intestinal environment.

Many factors can adversely alter this balance, including age, poor diet,

certain medications and even stress. Taking probiotics on a daily basis is

a great way to maintain that balance.*

Probiotics and Your Immune SystemTaking a daily high potency probiotic supplement can help support your

immune health, too.* Up to 80 percent of your immune system is located

in and around the intestinal tract. Benefi cial bacteria in the gut work to

“educate” the immune system to help it respond appropriately.

Probiotic supplements are available for every age group, in both targeted

or maintenance formulas, so in addition to you taking a probiotic, make

sure everyone that you care for takes a daily probiotic too!

*Th ese statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug

Administration. Th is product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure,

or prevent any disease.

___

For over 20 years, Brenda Watson has dedicated her career to helping

people achieve vibrant, lasting health through improved digestive

function. A dynamic health advocate, author, speaker and celebrated

public television health educator, she is among the foremost authorities

in America on optimum nutrition and digestion, natural detoxifi cation

methods, and herbal internal cleansing.

Brenda recognized a growing need within the natural products

industry for a line of safe and eff ective digestive care products during

her extensive clinical work, and in 1997 she accepted the challenge

herself. The result is the ReNew Life line of superior-quality digestive

health supplements based in Palm Harbor, Florida.

from ReNew Life Formulas:

Solutions for Caregivers

40 Fall Issue 2014

adventures

Little Stone Big Stone:Exploring in GeorgiaEditor’s Review by PAMELA SETTLE

Mining for the Little StonesDiamond mines. Gemstones. Gold. Iron Ore. Pick axes.

If you have children enamored with the video game, Minecraft®,

then these no doubt have been topics of discussion in your house,

too. We have a generation of budding miners thanks to this

highly popular game where the kids mine, dig and build as far as

their imaginations can take them.

As frustrating as the obsession may be at times, it is nice to have

them learning about rocks and mining, topics they may have

otherwise glossed over in science class. Mining is a fascination

in our house, so much so that we record episodes of Gem Hunt

on the Travel Channel to watch gemologists travel the world in

search of the best raw gemstones. Sadly, when the request came in

from my son to actually go mining like they do on Gem Hunt, I

had to break the bad news about Florida’s geology and geography.

However, not too far north in Cleveland, Georgia, there is a gem

mine with stones and gold to be found. You don’t go deep down

in the mines like they do in some parts of the world, but you do

get to sift through dirt (gem ore) that has been scooped up from

ancient river beds.

According to owner Brian Devan, co-owner of Gold and Gem

Grubbin’, the gemstones are the same as you’ll fi nd in Africa,

because the ancestral continents of North America and Africa

collided with a violent crashing of crustal plates forming the

Appalachian Mountains. Th en about 200 million years later, the

movement reversed and the eastern border of what is now the

United States was established. Th e quartz that cooled from the

volcanic activity created gemstones that some have, over time,

been washed down the mountains to rest in the foothills of north

Georgia. Part of an ancient river bed is owned by Gold and Gem

Grubbin’. Th ey use the placer mining technique to strip away dirt

down to the bedrock which is where the gold deposited. Th is gem

ore is what visitors pay to sift through by the bucket or the day.

To get closer to an authentic mining experience, we took the day

option, along with three fi ve-gallon buckets, sifters and pans to

the side of the creek and put the miner wannabe to work. First

we shoveled gem ore from a large pile into the buckets to carry

to the side of the creek. Th en we sat and rinsed dried mud off

rocks for an entire day. Before you judge, I have to fi rst tell you

there was something very Zen and relaxing about doing this kind

of mindless, repetitive task on the shore of a cool, clear creek in

the shade of the trees. Second, I need to tell you that our worked

paid off because we actually found gems!

In with our new collection of various types of quartz, we found

garnets, a red sapphire and an emerald. To an eight-year-old,

these fi nds were far better than the time he won 1,000 tickets at

a Disney arcade, plus they are connected to a very unique set of

special family memories.

If you don’t have the time or the inclination to dip your toes and

rocks into the creek, you can purchase a bucket or two of the ore

for sifting at their water tables, or sluices. Th e source is the same,

it’s just a diff erent experience and we saw several families happily

chatting away while they rinsed and sorted.

We took our special rocks to the offi ce for them to be identifi ed

by Brian, an experienced miner and rock expert. For an extra fee,

he will cut your stones for you, making them ready to be set in

earrings, a necklace or a ring.

To learn more about how to take the family gem mining, visit

GoldnGemGrubbin.com. From Pinellas County, the drive is about

eight hours, but well worth it for a long weekend adventure any

time of the year.

41Fall Issue 2014

adventures

Holiday Mining Made SpecialTaking your mining trip to Georgia during the Th anksgiving or

Christmas holiday breaks can be extra special. Th e creek may be a bit

chilly depending on the weather, but the sluices are open year round.

About 30 minutes north of the mine is the town of Helen, a

replica of a quaint Alpine village with shops and restaurants.

Starting in November the town turns into a storybook Christmas

Village. Lighting of the Village is November 28, which also

marks the day Santa comes to town and the Christmas market

opens for the season.

Also near the mine, is the town of Dahlonega, the epicenter of

the Gold Rush of the late 1820’s. Tour historical gold mines

and pan for gold fl akes in nearby streams. Th e town will hold

an Old Fashioned Christmas celebration from November 28 to

December 21.

For the kids and kids at heart, stop for a tour of the BabyLand

General® Hospital, birthplace of the Cabbage Patch Kids,

located in Cleveland.

The Big Stone: Stone Mountain ParkAfter mining for your little stones, head back toward Florida

and stop to visit a famous big stone: Stone Mountain, the dome

of a ten-mile-long pluton that is primarily composed of quartz

monzonite. Th is rare type of rock formed as part of the crash that

created the Appalachian Mountains. Standing 1,686 feet tall, the

mountain has carved on the side the largest bas relief sculpture in

the world that was completed in 1972.

For most of the time since then, the park has been mainly a stop

to see the sculpture and take the Skyride to the top. In the past

decade, the park has grown into a fun-fi lled family adventure

within a beautiful state park. Rustic looking restaurants, shops

and play areas create an old Western town atmosphere. A 1940s

locomotive pulls open-air cars for a fi ve-mile trip around the base

of the mountain. Th e Skyride is still a highlight to take visitors to

the top of the mountain for a gorgeous view.

Kids enjoy several attractions that

are just for them. Geyser Towers®

has multiple levels of suspended rope

bridges and net tunnels to connect you

to towering platforms that overlook a

gushing geyser. On SkyHike®, the whole

family can trek through the treetops on

a family adventure course. And in the

Great Barn® kids will fi nd super slides,

trampoline fl oors, climbing structures

and over 65 interactive games.

For a little more culture and education,

take in the Stone Mountain Museum

to learn about the geology and history

of the mountain and Th e Antebellum

Plantation, a collection of original build-

ings from around the State of Georgia, built between 1783 and 1875.

Each evening ends with visitors sitting on the grassy hill that

slopes down toward the base of the mountain to watch the

musical laser light show on the side of the mountain. Th e music,

the animation of the laser lights and the emotion of the moment

make this show really quite enjoyable for all ages. Learn more at

StoneMountainPark.com

This GOOD ADVENTURE can be done in four to fi ve days. Allow one full day at Gold and Gem Grubbin’ with dinner in Dahlonega or Helen. Then plan one or two days at Stone Mountain Park. Their onsite restaurants have good food so you can eat there or bring a picnic. We stayed in Duluth, which is conveniently located between the two attractions on Interstate 85 on the east side of Atlanta. The Sonesta Hotel, while mainly a business hotel, was a luxurious yet aff ordable respite on a weekend.

42 Fall Issue 2014

adventures

A Stone Mountain Christmas with Snow MountainWho wants to go snow tubing?

It’s October in Florida. We nearly all want a taste of the cooler

weather that our friends up north are getting. Stone Mountain Park

in Georgia is fi nishing its Pumpkin Festival on October 26 and

will be transforming the park for Stone Mountain Christmas to

open on November 8.

Th e already gorgeous park will be festive and sparkling with 2

million lights, attractions and shows to put the whole family into

the holiday spirit. Th en on November 22, they turn their usually

grassy hill into a 400 foot snow-covered hill for tubing. Families

can tube together on one side and individuals can tube on the

other. At the bottom, Snow Zone has a smaller hill for toddlers

and young children, plus an area to build igloos and snowmen.

Th e park appeals to all ages, making it ideal for inviting the

grandparents and all the cousins. Restaurants in the park make

dining convenient. And two Marriott hotels are on the property, also

convenient for traveling families. Check their website’s Special

Off ers page frequently for ticket and hotel deals. A combination

ticket for the Stone Mountain Christmas and Snow Mountain

is only $44.95. Ask about their military discount for active duty,

veterans and retired.

If you’re looking for a new family getaway during the Th anksgiving

or Christmas breaks, Stone Mountain Park can surround you in

holiday cheer and give the kids a snow day they’ll never forget.

Th is park is managed by a company that upholds wholesome

family fun in all they do, assuring families a pleasant, clean and

friendly experience. All within about six hours of Tampa Bay.

Purchase tickets for Snow Mountain in advance to reserve your

day, as attendance is limited. StoneMountainPark.com.

Stone Mountain Christmas:November 8 - January 4Watch Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas 4-D, a hilarious adventure

featured in 3-D with added in-theater eff ects.

Take your picture with two iconic North Pole favorites, Rudolph the

Red-Nosed Reindeer® and Bumble™ the Abominable Snow Monster.

Take a journey into the Christmas songs of yesterday and today with

the uplifting live holiday show Forever Christmas. Other live shows

include Holly Jolly Cabaret, Toyrifi c!, and A Crossroads Christmas Carol. 

Come aboard the Singalong Train to enjoy Christmas favorites, as well

as the heartwarming story of the fi rst Christmas in Th e Gift train show.

Wander through the Wonderland Walkway, a dazzling tunnel of

lights guiding you to the Snow Angel® Palace, where you can have your

picture taken with the beautiful Snow Angel and her Toy Soldiers.

Cheer on the nightly Christmas Parade including whimsical

fl oats and the arrival of Santa Claus.

Visit with Santa Claus and gather at the Gingerbread House to

hear Mrs. Claus spin heartwarming tales.

End the night with the magical Snow Angel® Snowfall and Fireworks Finale as the Snow Angel fl ies overhead and, with the help of her

junior angels below chanting “Let It Snow,” makes it snow. 

Snow Mountain:November 22 - February 22 Now in its seventh season, Snow Mountain features the

Avalanche Alley family tube ride, Tube Runners and the Snow

Zone area where younger kids can tube, make the ultimate

snowmen and snow angels and throw snowballs at a snowball

shooting gallery. Th ey even have a snowman closet fi lled with eyes,

noses, hats and more to complete the snowman for the ultimate

picture to share back in Florida. After playing in the snow, warm

up at the crackling bonfi res, roast marshmallows and enjoy

s’mores. Th eir website has more information on how to dress and

what to bring to enjoy your day in the snow.

43Fall Issue 2014

eating

Local Entrepreneurs

Get Saucy! Out of the WeedsRobin Bird, owner of Th ree Birds Tavern in St. Petersburg has

expanded her business with a new line of artisan dressings and

sauces made locally and made fresh with all natural ingredients.

Th e fi rst dressings released in her Out of the Weeds line are:

Carrot Ginger - carrots, ginger, olive oil, sesame oil, vinegar,

tomato, soy sauce, jalapeno peppers, fresh cilantro, orange zest &

natural spices

Roasted Beet Vinaigrette - beets, orange juice, soybean oil, olive

oil, vinegar, shallots, garlic, fresh thyme, fresh tarragon, kosher

salt & natural spices

Roasted Tomato Vinaigrette - ripe plum tomatoes, soybean oil,

olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sherry vinegar, shallots, garlic, sugar,

fresh thyme, kosher salt & natural spices

After more than fi ve years as a restaurant owner, Robin and her

husband Jack felt they were suffi ciently “out of the weeds” enough to

start producing the dressings and sauces they’ve been making in the

restaurant kitchen. “Starting a retail line of products has always been

a part of the plan,” says Robin, “but we had to get the restaurant to a

place where it was running smoothly day to day.”

Th ey also had to fi nd a way to commercially produce and package

their products. Being supporters of the “Buy Local” movement,

the Birds sought the assistance of another local business owner

who was already fi nding success in the locally-made sauce business.

Michelle Northrup’s company, Th e Intensity Academy Gourmet

Sauces was the right fi t for all concerned. “We knew they would

put the same stamp of quality on our products as they do with

theirs,” said Robin.

Th e dressings are perfect not only as salad toppers, but also for

grilling and enhancing meats and vegetables, as marinades and

dipping sauces. Th ey are available at Th ree Birds Tavern (1495

4th St N.) for $8 a bottle, or $20 for a 3-pack. You can also order

online at outoftheweeds.com where you’ll also fi nd recipes and

serving suggestions, and have them shipped right to your doorstep.

Robin is talking with wholesale food distributors and specialty

grocers both locally, and nationally, so hopefully you’ll be seeing

them on the shelves of some of your favorite stores someday soon.

Intensity Academy Adds New ProductsMichele Northrup has become a bit of a “saucy” food celebrity at

local markets and shows during the past few years, but her star

really shines at hot sauce competitions across the U.S. In the past

fi ve years, Michelle has won 53 national awards.

She started her own company, Intensity Academy Gourmet

Sauces as a cottage business. Th e operation has long since

outgrown her kitchen and her sauces continue winning fans all

over Tampa Bay. Th eir veggie-based hot sauces and organic tea

infused gourmet sauces explore intense fl avors with varied levels

of heat, from mild to spicy.

New products introduced are:

Carrot Karma is an all-natural carrot

based hot sauce. Th e natural sweetness of

the carrots balance the bright habaneros

with a hint of lime. Only 3 calories per

teaspoon.

Chai Th ai Teriyaki is an all natural award

winning artisan sauce. Organic Chai Tea,

Th ai peppers, tamari soy and local honey

make this amazing sauce. Great for stir

fry’s, veggies, marinade and more.

Hot3 Wing Sauce says it all!

Shop online at IntensityAcademy.com

or visit Spiceman’s Kitchen in Tarpon

Springs or Red Hot Tiki in Gulfport.

44 Fall Issue 2014

eating

The Versatile Bean Can MakeYour Life EasierIn looking at the challenges that today’s cooks have, the bean can

do a lot to make your life easier. First, in the quest to eat food

that is not processed, beans are one of the least processed, least

packaged and least chemically treated foods you can purchase.

Secondly, they pack some serious nutritional punch as they are

rich in thiamine (B1), pyridoxine (B6), niacin and folic acid.

Minerals include iron, calcium, phosphorus and potassium.

Beans are a good protein source that have little or no cholesterol

or fat. For instance, one cup of white, pinto, kidney, black, navy or

garbanzo beans on average can yield 15 to 17 grams of protein,

about 20 percent of what’s required daily for an adult, and about

half for children. Th is is a protein source that also provides much

needed soluble fi ber, something that doesn’t happen with meat!

Fiber is one of the keys to a healthy diet and a healthy digestive

system. Soluble fi ber can help to lower cholesterol by forming

high density lipoproteins which can clean the arteries.

Th irdly, beans can help a family’s food budget stay within its

limits, especially as meat prices continue to rise. Purchasing

beans in bulk bags can save money as well as limiting the use of

canned beans which will add unnecessary sodium and increase

exposure to BPA (Bisphenol A). BPA is a controversial chemical

that lines cans and has been linked to breast cancer, hormone

disruptions, brain and behavior problems and heart issues. While

BPA has been mostly removed from plastics, especially baby

bottles and sippy cups, most canned goods still contain BPA.

Soaking Dried BeansBeans bought in bulk are dried and will last for about six months

in the pantry. While some cooks, will prepare their beans without

soaking, many recommend it. Planning ahead is necessary

because soaking the beans takes time. Th e good news is that they

can soak overnight while you sleep or while you’re away at work.

Choose a couple of bean recipes to get more than one meal for

the eff ort. Th e process of soaking is to rinse off dust and debris,

rehydrate the dried beans for faster, more even cooking and to

remove the complex sugars (oligosaccharides) that can lead to

intestinal discomfort. More of the sugars are removed if you can

change the water two to three times during soaking. A quick

method that requires pre-boiling will cook out the antioxidants

and vitamins.

How to soak? For each cup of sorted, rinsed beans add three

cups of cool water. Adding salt to the water will strengthen

the skins of larger beans, like limas, during the long bath. Also

adding 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda per pound of beans is

recommended if the soaking water is hard water. Once the beans

are soaking, let them sit in a cool place. Drain and rinse. Do not

use the soaking water for cooking.

Cooking the BeansOnce they are rehydrated, they are ready to cook by simmering,

not boiling, in water until soft. Depending on the use, add

seasonings, herbs, broths, peppers or meat like a ham hock to

fl avor the beans. Cooking time will depend on quantities, but

start with 30 minutes for lentils and smaller beans, and check

every 15 to 30 minutes thereafter until you get the hang of it.

Th e bean should be soft all the way through and not chalky in

the middle.

A pressure cooker can greatly reduce cooking time and is an

excellent way to prepare fast and healthy meals. For example,

black, kidney and pinto beans can be fully cooked in ten minutes,

white beans in six and limas in three.

Most every culture in the world has beans somewhere on the

menu. From the soy, mung, and adzuki beans of Asia to the

cannellini beans of Italy to the black beans of Cuba, beans are

plentiful and diverse. Relying solely on canned beans will limit

your choices. Explore international markets for diff erent types

of beans and research recipes that use diff erent seasonings and

spices. Experiment with diff erent combinations of vegetables,

grains and meat to make one-pot dinners, soups and side dishes

your family will love.

45Fall Issue 2014

eating

Pressure Cooker Recipes for Fast Bean DishesFrom Kuhn Rikon, maker of the Duroma c Pressure CookersKuhnrikon.com

Savory Black Beans1 cup dried black beans

2 bacon slices

1 medium onion, peeled and diced

2 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced

½ jalapeno pepper, fi nely chopped

1 ¾ cups water

¼ cup cilantro

1 tsp oregano

½ tsp black pepper

1 large tomato, chopped

2 tbsp lime juice

Salt to taste

Rinse and soak beans. In pressure cooker, heat bacon on medium

heat until soft. Add onion, garlic and jalapeno to bacon until

onion is translucent. Add water and soaked, drained beans.

Increase to high heat. Stir in cilantro, oregano and black pepper.

Close lid and bring to high pressure setting. Cook for 10 to 12

minutes and use the natural release method to allow fl avors to

settle in. Once steam is released, add tomato, lime juice and salt.

Serve over rice or as a side to any meal. Or transfer to a baking

dish, cover with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and bake to

melt cheese. Makes 6 servings.

Boston “Baked” Beans2 cups dried small white beans

2 bacon slices chopped

2 medium onions, peeled and chopped

4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

3 cups chicken broth

2 tsp white pepper

½ cup molasses

½ cup ketchup

¼ cup brown sugar

Wash and soak the beans. In pressure cooker, fry bacon over

high heat until lightly golden. Reduce heat and add onion and

garlic, stirring often. Add broth, soaked and drained beans, dry

mustard and white pepper over high heat and stir until mixed.

Close lid and bring to high setting of pressure for six minutes.

Remove heat and cool using the natural release method. Drain

cooking liquid from beans and return them to cooker or place

in a warmed casserole dish. Stir together molasses, ketchup and

brown sugar. Pour over beans and stir until sauce clings to the

beans. Makes 8 – 10 servings.

Dr. William Davis, cardiologist and author of Wheat Belly Total Health, warns that the holidays mean extra carbs, and the extra

carbs from wheat will make us sluggish in the middle of all the

fun holiday activities. He says that humans weren’t meant to

eat grasses, like wheat, and that our digestive systems respond

with infl ammatory and autoimmune conditions. We can skip

the dinner roles on Th anksgiving, but turkey just isn’t the same

without dressing. Dr. Davis has recommended this alternative:

Wheat-free Caulifl ower Mushroom Dressing1 ounce dried porcini mushrooms

1 pound loose ground pork sausage

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

2 stalks celery, chopped

1 medium onion, diced

1 head caulifl ower

1 green pepper, chopped

4-ounce can/jar roasted red peppers

8 ounces Portabella mushrooms, sliced

2 tablespoons ground golden fl axseed

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon ground sage

1 teaspoon ground thyme

1 teaspoon ground tarragon

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Bring approximately 12 ounces

water to a boil in sauce pan. Toss in porcini mushrooms and

turn heat down to maintain below boiling. Stir every couple of

minutes for 20 minutes. In deep sauce pan, sauté sausage in 1

tablespoon olive oil, along with celery and onions, until sausage is

cooked. Drain excess oil. Place saucepan back on low heat. Break

caulifl ower into small fl orets and add to sausage mix. Toss in

drained porcini mushrooms along with approximately 4 ounces of

the porcini broth, remainder of olive oil, green pepper, roasted red

peppers, Portabella mushrooms and fl axseed. Add onion powder,

sage, thyme, tarragon, salt and black pepper and stir. Transfer

to baking dish and place in oven. Bake for 45 minutes.

More at wheatbellyblog.com

46 Fall Issue 2014

By CYNTHIA WICKS

CynthiaAs impossible as it now seems, I was addicted to heroin by the

age of nine. Th e addiction was rooted in a pain so deep that I

believed nothing, not even God if there was such a thing, could

help me. Some of my earliest memories revolved around trying

to fi gure out why my father chose me out of my siblings to be his

target of sexual abuse. Th is dark secret tore my family apart and

left me alone and lost.

All I wanted was what every little girl wants; to be happy. How

could I smile when internally I was devastated? How could I

laugh when all I wanted to do was cry? I felt lost, and the only

thing I found to change how I felt was drugs. I was exposed to

heroin at an early age on the streets of New York City. I thought

it made me feel better, but it quickly led me to a very dark place.

Th e dark place of deadly situations: 29 overdoses, more sexual

abuse, failure in school, and a broken life.

No one knew what to do with me so I was sent to a treatment

facility in Tampa when I was 19. It was not an easy road, but the

for the fi rst time a hope was birthed inside of me. It was at this

same time that I was brought to a recovery group called New

Found Family and the fi rst thing they told me was that they

would love me until I was able to love myself.

I instantaneously felt accepted and at home. Th e group is partnered

with Crosspointe Church there I began my faith journey. I had

a spiritual awakening and realized that God had saved me. He

showed me how He had carried me through the darkest storms

of my life, and never let me go. Th e greatest infl uence during

all this time was a woman I met the fi rst time I attended New

Found Family. God used her to help save my life. When I fi rst

met Heather, she was the one who told me that she would love

me until I was able to love myself. As we began working together

I discovered that fi ve years before I arrived, God was preparing

her to be the exact person I would need to help me fi nd my way.

HeatherAt that time, Heather was in a life that was totally unmanageable.

She grew up in a dysfunctional home of alcoholics, was abandoned

by her biological father at the age of 8, and was sexually abused by

her step-father and another man by the age of 10. After several years

of insanity, addiction, chaos and aff airs, she was looking at a divorce

after 10 years of marriage. She had made a public suicide attempt and

was Baker-acted. When she was released she entered into treatment

through a program called New Found Family.

My StoryMy StoryOur

Heather is celebrating eight years sober, her family and marriage

are restored. She obtained a degree in Human Services for

Alcohol/Substance Abuse because throughout her recovery

process, she dreamed of opening up a recovery center for women

and children. She learned that many women who have children

won’t go into treatment because they don’t have anyone to care

for their children while they recover.

New Found Family Recovery CenterExpanding from the New Found Family support groups, plans

are in the works to build a New Found Family Recovery Center.

Th is will be an inpatient residential program in central Pinellas

County that houses women and children. Th ere will also be

sober living facilities for clients after they complete the inpatient

program. Th roughout their time with us, we will teach clients

life management and coping skills with a support system that

will follow them until they are able to live a sober, healthy, and

productive life on their own.

We just recently found transitional housing for two women this

month, so our vision is well on its way. Your help is needed as we

continue with our vision to build and maintain the new center.

We hope that you will agree that lives are worth saving.

Cynthia Wicks (left) and Heather Farris (right)

R

P.O. Box 1795

Oldsmar, Florida 34677