OffBeat Business Magazine April 2016 by OffBeat Business Magazine

ISSUE 17 | APRIL 2016

Should YOUR Business Use

Live Video?

Craig Speck Business Spotlight

SPECK TRANSPORTATION

DEBUNKING

Chiropractic Myths

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Off BeatMa CONTENTS

06 BusinessSpotlight SpeckTransportation

21 Soaring Career – Drastic Changes

32 Debunking Chiropractic Myths

By SusanHamilton

By Julie Williams

By Dr. Luke Arnett

10 Should Your Business Use Live Video?

22 Braised Leafy Greens

35 Talyor’s Tips: Pick a Horse and Ride It!

By Erin Smith

By Chef Bernard A. Charter

13 Keep Your Foot Out of Your Mouth

25 Fashion Beat: Spring Wardrobe Assessment

By Jeff Klein

By Deborah Viapiana-Ricci

17 Hello, Hello! Phone Etiquette

28 March In, March Out, March On

By Dorothy Skinner

By Clint Fuqua

18 Building a T.E.A.M.

30 Get Relief from Spring Allergies

By ClaireBillingsley

By Brenda Wakefield

By Taylor Kay Stephens

37 Susan Says: The Best Decision I Ever Made By Susan Hamilton

OFFBEAT BUSINESS

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agazine Susan Hamilton

susan@offbeatbusiness.com

SHOW & MAGAZINE

EDITOR’S NOTE Friends,

Ready to start Q2 and continue the great trends you started the first quarter? Well, you may or may not be happy with your first quarter progress - but for the successful business owner, that only means you’ve learned what to do more of and what to discontinue. We submit this April edition of The OffBeat Business Magazine with your success in life and business in mind. You CAN have it all, but it won’t just drop in your lap. Inside, you’ll find actual solutions for health issues you may not have understood before. Health is a big deal during the transition months, when everyone you know seems to be battling fatigue, runny noses and backaches. Our Health Beat Contributors are focused on educating American small and micro business owners on the benefits of alternative therapies for long-term success - not just the pharmaceutical band aids you’re used to trying. Our Biz Beat columns are jam-packed with expert advice for networking, successful team building, and communication. Our Business Spotlight on Speck Transportation (cover) will inspire you to reach further, and our Features will have you exploring live video and more. Our Fashion Editor cleans out your closet and shows you how to update it. Enjoy the humor and wit of our very own Taylor Kay Stephens in her monthly column, Taylor’s Tips, and make sure you check out the Battle-Buddy 2 page spread in the back for veteran and caregiver resources without the red tape.

Off BeatMagazine Editor

Susan Hamilton

Art Director

Jonathan Bodnar

Manager

Susan Hamilton

Marketing

The OffBeat Business Show

Designer

Jonathan Bodnar

Publisher

Robin Roberson

Producer

Roberson Squared

As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions! Please send your feedback to Info@OffBeatBusiness.com so we can continue to bring you the very best. Happy Q2 Kick-Off, here’s to making more money smarter. ~ Susan Hamilton

Here’s What’s Coming Up in April on The OffBeat Business Show! April 5th - Maximizing team productivity is always a challenge, but what if you could make it fun and build necessary trust that improves communication? Claire Billingsley, author of Circle Up! shares her techniques that are working all over America. April 12th - Got a massive workload? Daphne Anderson talks with Susan Hamilton about managing details with a virtual assistant. Discover how to get more done without compromising quality. April 19th - Craig Speck talks with Susan Hamilton about safety and loss reduction when you’re renting vehicles for your group or business. Craig’s marketing differently, tune in to hear his approach! April 26th - Stay Tuned - !!SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!

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ONE FOR THE MONEY, TWO FOR THE ROAD!

Business Spotlight on Speck Transportation Services

By Susan Hamilton

or 14 years, Craig Speck has been providing safe transportation services all over America - both with and without drivers included. When he first started 27 years ago, he wasn’t sure where it would lead. But he recognized early on that there was a huge difference between suppliers, and the way they did business would either ensure safety and fair practices - or be startlingly dangerous and often have hidden costs. Craig wanted to be certain that when he was involved, those issues would never be associated with his good name, a name his son, Micah, wears proudly today as he makes basket after basket for his Mansfield, Texas high school. That turned out to be a good decision, and as our featured cover on The OffBeat Business Magazine April 2016 issue, I wanted to share a side of Craig

Speck that sets the standard in American business practices - at least, it should. Over the years, Craig has consulted with me numerous times on his websites, strategies, and even his books. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting his beautiful wife, Renee, and his teenage son. When we’re talking about what American small business really looks like, this is it. It is so important to recognize and support the people who have skin in the game, the people who pour it out for their families and communities day in and day out.

The Process A leader in the rental vehicle industry, Craig specializes in motor coaches, vans, and limousines of every size. If you want the vehicle - he’s got a supplier you can trust to price accurately and provide a vehicle that has passed his Speck Spectacular Supplier Selection Process, a proprietary process he’s refined over the years to keep his

“I would highly recommend Speck Transportation Services. Craig is very easy to work with and works very hard for the folks that use him. As a student minister and always needing transportation, Craig truly understands how to work with churches. We used them this summer and it was the best service I have had in 26 years of student ministry.” Craig’s goal is to educate group facilitators on how to arrange and manage a trip safely, and guarantee a pleasant and memorable experience by minimizing and avoiding pitfalls he’s seen many fall into. As a husband and father, and local volunteer with his church and local high school, he understands the risks involved when transporting any group - but transporting teenagers and senior citizens is often filled with unexpected events. Those events can be dangerous for the group, but also damaging for the supplier’s vehicles that must be returned in the same shape they were rented in. In his latest book, The Ultimate Common Sense Ground Transportation Guide For Traveling Groups, Craig outlines everything you need to know to be prepared for the best and equipped for the worst. He poured his heart out in this book, and it’s full of nuggets like, ❏ Six Supreme Strategies To Gain Absolute Confidence In Your Group Transportation Decisions

❏ The 6 Never-Mentioned Facts Regarding Rented 15-Passenger Vans ❏ Six of The Best Practices When Reserving Motor Coaches For Long Trips Craig Speck is not afraid to say what needs to be said to keep people safe. We have often discussed the tragic news stories about crashes on those long, unlit highways that flank every perimeter around the metro areas in Texas and other states. They happen for various reasons, mechanical failure, driver error and sometimes they happen because of another driver. Whatever the scenario, I guarantee Craig winces.

Counting The Cost His first book, The Ultimate Common Sense Group Transportation Guide For Churches and Schools, is a compilation from his years of blogging, and, as promised, a detailed account of what to do and what not to do for churches and schools. While safety is his #1 priority, not blowing unnecessary money is his second. His ‘Craig says’ sections inject these tidbits throughout. “Did you know waiting till the last minute to reserve your van rentals for trips can be extremely hazardous to your budget? Fuel fees bite!” “When you rent a coach with driver, it is essential that you pay strict attention to the dates that the initial and final investments are due.”

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suppliers on their toes. If you need a rental and a driver for your group or even transport to and from the airport in style, rest assured that with his selection process in place, you’re getting a vetted driver, too.

Off BeatMagazine Prom Night Safety Proms are a big deal for teenagers, chaperones AND parents. As a mother of 5, I saw firsthand the parents who were willing to let their teenagers behave badly as long as they had a limo and driver. The pressure is fierce, who wants to be the only parent who says “No, you have a curfew and I don’t want you drinking?” I don’t regret saying no, but it sure wasn’t easy. On one occasion, kids were drinking so heavily that the limo driver brought them back to the home where he had picked them up, and just in time. One boy had thrown up and passed out in his vomit! That all happened within our eyesight, and the driver was miserable about it for every reason you can imagine. Possible death, a nasty clean up, potential for liability - I didn’t envy him. I shared that story with Craig, and he hung his head and shook it. This driver was the reason the kids all made it back safely. Clearly, much due diligence on the part of all the parents involved could have prevented the entire thing. Please consider how important it is to have a vetted driver and a set of expectations before your teenagers leave in a limo on prom night. You can bet that was an expensive experience! Speck Transportation Services are available throughout the contiguous United States. Vans, motorcoaches, limousines - with and without drivers - are ran through a rigorous vetting process to ensure he offers only the best vehicles from only

the best suppliers. Craig Speck’s rap gets attention all over social media; you can find it on YouTube. His two books characterize his authenticity and precede him wherever he goes, and he networks with groups that support him and his business growth. He pays strict attention to the business coaching he receives through Mike Crow, head of the North Texas GKIC Mastermind for years. He shows up in a suit and is a shrewd decision-maker. All of those elements of success were first an opportunity and then a choice, and today, he’s setting the bar. What decisions are you making today that will define your business tomorrow?

Speck Transportation Services secures your van, chartered coach or limousine so you can focus on your activities and financial interests. In addition to offering a 200% guarantee to his clients, there is also a special inside the covers of his books. For a free copy of Craig’s books, call 817-437-8702 TODAY. Rent your vehicle from Speck Transportation Services at SpeckGroundTransportation.com

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Should Your Business Use

Live Video?

By Erin Smith

Live video is a huge craze right now. Between Twitter owning Periscope, Facebook Live rolling out to everyone, plus collaboration sites like Blab.im, the opportunities for you to get your businesses discovered are endless. I am often asked if a company should spend time using live video, and I can say the answer is 100% “Yes.”. Here are a few reasons why your business should look at some of these mediums and take advantage of the wealth of opportunities they provide.

1. People do business with who they know like and trust. So what does that

have do with live video? I always love to explain it this way. Imagine if you read a letter from someone. You would get to know them, but there would still be a lot you weren’t sure about. That’s just like a blog post. If you talked to that person on the phone, you would get to know them a little better, but it’s still not the best way to get to know someone. That’s similar to a podcast. Now imagine having a face-to-face conversation with someone. Think of how quickly you make the decision if you like this person, and if you trust them. That’s what video does for you. It allows your potential customers to quickly make that decision.

2. There is no need to be perfect. Live

video scares a lot of people because it’s just that, live. The possibilities to mess up are endless, and there is constant worry about whether or not you’re going to look like a fool. Plus when it comes to other video, many people stress out over the production of it. The great thing about live video is that you don’t have to worry about any of it. Perfect live videos don’t exist, and it’s just one more way for people to get to know you on a deeper level. Which means they will engage in business with you faster. Let go of the need to have everything be just right because it never will. Hit broadcast and start streaming.

3. You need content for your business.

No matter what business you are in, you need to be consistently putting out great content. It’s one of the best ways to not only get found, but stand out above your competition. What’s great about live video is that it is the beginning of re-purposing your content several different ways. Here are just a few of things you can do once you have created one live video. 1. Transcribe it for a blog post 2. Pull out small clips for Facebook videos 3. Pull out 15 sec clips for Instagram videos

Off BeatMagazine 4. Post the clips on Pinterest 5. Create a few quote memes, and post them throughout social media 6. Create a YouTube video 7. Pull the audio from it, and create a podcast Yes, you can do all of that from just one stream. Stop re-creating content, and just re-purpose what you have already done.

4. Location capabilities. Many small

businesses are hesitant to take on live streaming because they are worried it’s not local enough. First, don’t limit yourself. I know a chocolatier from Australia selling chocolate all over the world, thanks to Periscope. Second, you never know who may be watching you from another city but can recommend you to a person they know who could use you. Second, there are advantages because of the location services. I can pull up my app and find people who are streaming in places near me, and I can see who is currently live. To my point in #3, you have to create content anyway, so take advantage of the opportunity to get found by potential clients when you’re live. Building a larger audience takes some time, so don’t sit back while others are taking advantage of this incredible opportunity just because you

don’t have a big enough audience. Write down the top 10 Frequently Asked Questions you’re asked by your current or potential customers, and there are your first 10 live videos. Live video is an easy and fun way to build your business. Show some behind the scenes, teach your audience some new things, and use this tool as a way to connect with them.

“THERE IS NO NEED TO BE PERFECT.” Erin Smith, owner of The Starters Club, speaks and teaches entrepreneurs how to take advantage of smart start-up strategies that avoid common pitfalls and capitalize on your strengths. Contact Erin today at TheStartersClub.com.

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Keep Your

out of Your

mouth By Jeff Klein

Last month I wrote about creating ways to say what you do so people care. (March Issue, “So What?”) Have you been practicing? I hope so.

name in case they forgot it. And this person, this person you had a nice visit with just weeks ago, says, “Nice to meet you.”

This month, I was reminded of a lesson I created many years ago. It’s something I try to continue to teach at my Bootcamps. Turns out I’m not the only one who came up with this concept.

How does that make you feel? Has this person just become a trusted part of your network? Is it someone you’re eager to give a referral? Someone you’re willing to trust with your customers?

Thanks to Rose Colarossi (www.SpeakerCoop.com/ Rose-Colarossi) for telling the story of how she learned this lesson from a wise friend (who wasn’t me.)

One clichéd phrase has completely ruined someone’s credibility.

Has this ever happened to you? You sat across from a nice person at a networking lunch, had a nice chat. Maybe you even heard about their kids or told them about yours. Fast forward two, three, four weeks. You’re at another networking event. You walk up to this person you had the nice visit with and say, “Hi.” Because you’re a good networker, you say your

Here’s my story. I belonged to a trade association for a couple of years; went to almost every monthly meeting for two years (off and on for five years;) made it a point to introduce myself to the officers; Intentionally sat at the tables where the leaders sat during luncheons. I show up at the organization’s annual expo. I’m greeted by a board member I’d spoken to several times, who says to me, “Nice to meet you.”

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Then, five minutes later, I walk up to another officer A simple replacement of ONE WORD will keep you to ask a question. She and I had had several pleasant from sticking your foot in your mouth. conversations over the years at meetings and at lunches. She answers my question. I say, “Thank you,” SEE instead of MEET. and reach out to shake her hand. “Nice to SEE you.” As she’s shaking my hand, she says, “Nice to meet “Good to see you.” you.” “Nice visiting with you.” “Great to see you.” And this was not the first time either of these people said, “Nice to meet you,” at previous events. Any one of these is a vast improvement over, “Nice to meet you.” I’d had enough. Get out there and CONNECT! I politely and professionally said, “We’ve met many times before. I’ve been a member off and on for over 5 years,” and I walked away. I quit going to those monthly meetings and didn’t renew my dues that year. Did I overreact? Maybe. Did I deserve to be remembered? Possibly. I like to think so. Could those LEADERS have done something different to prevent anyone from feeling discounted, forgotten, devalued? Definitely.

Let’s turn it around. What if you’re the

one saying, “Nice to meet you?” You don’t want to make people think you don’t value them. You also can’t remember everyone you meet. Even when they remember you. So, here’s my business networking tip this month. This tip could actually change your life. The tip is this:

Take the phrase, “Nice to meet you,” and throw it away. Crumble it up into a little ball and toss it in your permanent trash can in your head. 14

Jeff Klein offers a monthly Networking Lunch in Addison, regular Business Networking Bootcamps, and a website full of free and paid content to help those responsible for generating revenue at (www. Jeffs30Seconds.com/Education) and Jeff@JeffKleinSpeaker.com.

Someone you’re willing to trust with your customers?

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HELLO, HELLO!

Phone Etiquette In 2016 By Dorothy Skinner

The week has just flown by. Not only that, but we went from spring to winter and back to spring again. I love Texas winters. Short bursts of cold wrapped in the sunny luxury of warmer sunny days. Today I would like to chat about an important part of customer service - phone etiquette. We have all called into customer service on many occasions. Sometimes to just make an inquiry, and other times to complain about some issue. What kind of feeling were you left with after your contact? I know I have called in to request a late charge removed when I accidentally made a late payment. It was a good experience for me. I was on hold until the next available representative of course. But when the CSR finally answered, I explained that it was not my intention to be late with my payment but some other life events had my attention and I just missed the deadline. I was just wondering if there was any possibility to have that charge removed. The CSR said, “Of course.” She went on to tell me that it was so nice to have someone speak politely with her and not be upset and angry and demanding and she would be happy to remove that charge right away. I had a really good feeling after that call.

the people entrusted to answer phones for the companies we deal with. I have my youngest daughter, Debi, in charge of phones for Gary’s Quality Plumbing. She makes a real effort to always answer politely and listen to the concerns of the caller. Sometimes I know she gets a tough caller and has to be very diplomatic to get to the crux of the issue. We get compliments regularly from customers that really enjoy talking to her and she does take a personal interest when someone wants to share friendly information with her. Whoever is answering your telephone is very important to your company. It is the very first contact of a new caller to your business. If you have not reviewed your phone procedures in awhile it would be a very good idea to take a little time to make sure your first impression while be a good lasting impression with your callers. Dorothy Skinner is the owner of Gary’s Quality Plumbing, serving the north Dallas area, Wylie, McKinney, and Allen, Texas. Dorothy and her husband, Gary, raised six children in the plumbing service industry and have built their company of almost 50 years on customer service and fair pricing. Find their ad in The OffBeat Business Magazine.

My take away was, you know, we should be a little kinder and more patient when we deal with

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BUILDING A

T.E.A.M. by Claire Billingsley

hat does the word team mean to you when you picture it in your mind? Do you picture people playing on a field? What’s the difference between team sports and solo sports? The word team is actually an acronym for Together Everyone Achieves More. And it makes sense when you think about the expectation around being a “team player.” In our minds, the team is fluid…ideas flow, people are supported, and they collaborate together. This seems like such a simplistic business model, right? Put people together, have them work on a project together, and Voila! Everyone is happily producing and helping each other succeed. Kids do it all the time on the playground, on the baseball field, or even at a pick-up game of basketball. How do they being everyone together and actually play with people

they have never played with before, and still work towards the common goal? They all know the “rules” before they start the game. They understand three strikes and you’re out. You can’t hack the ball out of a basketball player’s hand. You can’t go off sides and cross the other team’s line of scrimmage before the ball is hiked. They know that after the game they congratulate each other whether they win or lose. They’ve had someone take the time to help them understand the expectations, the code of conduct, the mission, and also understand how each one of their positions works to uphold their piece of the responsibility puzzle so the team can achieve its goal. They all agree to uphold the “terms and conditions”, and they hold each other accountable. If you think about it, that’s what leaders in organizations are – coaches on a big playing

So, as a “Coach” how would you score yourself on the following: ❏ All of my “players” understand the rules of engagement in our organization (your mission and values statement) ❏ We have a clearly written employee manual (your playbook) ❏ We have written job descriptions that we review and reflect on frequently (Each player’s position description and expectation) ❏ We have required meetings to motivate our staff and help them see how their contribution is helping the organization get better (Team meetings) ❏ We have one-on-one time with each employee to review specific pieces of information that will help them get better both personally and professionally (Coaching sessions….perhaps even a coach for specific areas, like a batting coach, a pitching coach, etc) ❏ We celebrate together when we achieve our common goal (Your post season celebration) If you aren’t doing all of these things, you’re missing the point about leading your team to success. We all want to contribute, but if you don’t show us how or give us the rule book to know the expectations, we all just kinda wander around the field aimlessly, wasting our time and getting discouraged. Plus, as the coach, you have to keep your ego in check. You are not competing with your team, nor are they your friend. You are helping them achieve more than they ever thought possible by tough love, following the rules, and serving up consequences if rules of the game are broken.

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field called business. The coach (leader) sets up the plays, calls the shots, and reports the results to the Operations Manager of the team. (The big boss or the owner). If the team fails, it’s the coaches’ responsibility to tweak the plays and the player’s actions to help the entire team get better.

Claire Billingsley is an Author, Speaker, Trainer and Life Coach. She is also an ambassador for Dr’s Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields, Dermatologists. To learn more about anti-aging and skin care protection, or to book Claire as a speaker for your group or organization, contact Claire directly at Billingsley.Consulting@gmail.com.

They all know the “rules” before they start the game.

Playing on a team is hard work. Let’s get back to the playground and go for the gold.

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SOARING CAREER REQUIREDDRASTIC

CHANGE

By Julie Williams I spent a career getting people from their origin to their destination of choice safely. As an air traffic controller, my job was high-stress and importantly so! When you work in an environment like that, you’re always ‘on’. Muscles and nerves are always poised and alert, and that leads to some pretty great tension. I lived with chronic back pain that was with me 24/7. Being in a safety-sensitive position, I couldn’t work and take pain pills, nor did I want to. I had learned to ignore it the best I could and limit the things I did.

from my job and began teaching the importance of Omega 6/3 balance to help others naturally deal with their chronic pain and other challenges.

In addition to pain and stress, I had to maintain a strict medical clearance. I was always told to eat a balanced diet - but was never really given a breakdown of what a balanced diet actually WAS. So I did the standard 4 servings of fruits and veggies, dairy, protein, etc., like everyone else.

What a world we would live in if we did just a little preventative care and not wait until we have conditions that rely on dealing with insurance for our health. My goal is to make that a reality, and to change the health of Americans affordably, which would then change our legacies. I build teams of like minded people who want to improve the health of their family, friends and communities and leave their mark on the country. A change that allows us to feel our best, be our best and spend our money in our golden years on what we intended to.

Eventually, I realized I needed to do something about my health if I was going to enjoy any quality of life. It was toward the end of that career that I was introduced to a product line, new to the United States, that dealt with deficiencies I had never heard of. I was hearing that our diets were causing inflammation, and that inflammation might be the cause of my pain. In 2013 I took an Omega 6/3 test a 9 point test that measures the ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 in our blood - and decided to try a product called Balance Oil. Two weeks on this product and all my pain was gone. At four weeks I took off my reading glasses, and at six weeks my sleep quality was like it was in elementary school - restful. In addition, my cholesterol dropped 70 points. After about a year and a half, my two-shot a week allergy habit was OVER.

Our food supply is not what it used to be even if we all chose the correct quantities and the correct type of food in an amount that would fulfill the missing nutrients. “What a world we would live in, if we had health restored and felt great everyday.”

Julie Williams, The Accidental Nutritionist, educates the public about the necessities of proper omega balance and issues surrounding our public water supplies, including consumption and external use of those supplies. Julie clarifies health issues commonly misunderstood, and helps business owners improve their quality of life with simple adjustments made to their daily routine. To work with Julie, call 817-8945311 or email her at TheHealthDepot@Yahoo.com.

This outcome sparked a passion for me. I retired

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From The Chef

Braised Le Helpful Hints From Chef Bernard

➔ The home stove and oven needs to be calibrated if they are new, I f not they will have to be to ensure even cooking and heat flow distribution. ➔ When boiling potatoes of any type one should always use cold water, never shock potatoes. ➔ The small 9 piece knife set that most consumers purchase in cutlery stores should never be washed in the dish machine. The hot water will take the temper out of the steel in the knives are made of. ➔ Always label and date the Items that you are storing in your freezer to a sure the proper use of First In First Out approach (FIFO)

Braised Leafy Greens

1 small pot of water as needed

Yield: 1-10 portions

Equipment

Ingredients

1 Cookie tray or ½ sheet pan 1 Large pot 1 Medium saute pan 1 Small pot 1 Large wooden spoon 1 Medium to large Pyrex baking dish 1 Medium colander 1 Large bowl 1 Large skimmer or slotted spoon 2-3 trays fresh ice, place ice in bowl with water to cover the ice for later use. This must be ready for later use and it must be very cold. 1 Large cutting board

1 Bunch Collard greens, all stems removed and save for later use, medium dice 1 Bunch Mustard greens , all stems removed and saved for later use, medium dice 1 Bunch Turn up greens, all stems removed and saved for later use,medium dice Cut all stems from greens into small dice, they will be used for stock later. Olive oil ½ cup Mrs. Dash T. T. Nutmeg 1 pinch Oregano fresh chopped fine ¼ cup 4 Large yellow onions, small dice 3 Large lemons for juice

Method: Preheat oven to 300 degrees 1. After the stems have been removed and cleaned, free of excess greens. Cut into small dice, and let rest for next step. 2. In the small pot saute the

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eafy Greens 3. 4.

7. 8.

greens stems lightly with a little olive oil Add the water and bring it to a boil Simmer for ½ hour or until stems are tender, strain do not discard, water or stems save them both. Chill the stems and pour the stem stock in the large pot and add fresh water to the ½ way point of the large pot. Bring this liquid to a rolling boil and add all of the greens to the boiling liquid the darkest greens first. Stir and let the liquid return to a rolling boil. Remove the greens and place them in the bowl with ice and water (water bath). Reduce the stock to ½ the amount in the pot and let rest then season to taste. Shock the leafy greens and drain, squeeze lightly to get rid of excess water and refrigerate, covered for

later use on a cookie tray or ½ sheet pan 10. Place saute pan on stove and heat lightly, add all spices and add all herbs, then add onions and cook until tender do not brown (sweat the vegetables lightly). Let this mixture rest to cool and for use later. 11. Lightly grease the Pyrex dish and sprinkle the onion herb mixture to coat the Pyrex dish. Add the three green mixture and repeat these steps saving some onion mixture for the top. 12. Pour the reduced three greens stock in the corners lightly just to keep some moisture in the Pyrex dish. 13. Place the Pyrex dish in the oven with the remaining onion mixture and braise for 30-45 minutes. Serve this warm. 14. The remaining small diced stems can be marinated in a dressing of your choice

or they can be used in a soup as a garnish. This recipe should yield the cost of $ 2.00 per serving according to market price of items in the recipe.

Bernard A. Charter is the owner of Bernard’s Fusion Cuisine. He uses his expertise as a military veteran and chef of 35 years to educate, providing safe, reliable heart healthy food concepts on the table that enhance mind, body and soul. Contact Chef Bernard A. Charter for fun, feel-good meals with a unique, results-oriented approach at BernardCharter@Yahoo.com.

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Chiropractic / Muscle Testing Applied Kinesiology / Physical Therapy Thermography Nutritional Therapy / Allergy Relief No X- Rays

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FashionBeat Update Your Wardrobe For A Fresh SpringLookHere’s How! By DeborahViapiana-Ricci Spring has definitely sprung, and although the calendar said so, we are always at the mercy of the itinerant lioness that is March. She is a fickle feline, isn’t she? And then, all of a sudden, our long awaited spring fever begins to peak our interests. Anxiously, excitedly, we start thinking about spring cleaning ...? NOT!! Spring shopping, of course, silly! And, if you haven’t decided whom you wish to be this season, it’s ok. you can make it up as you go along. Do you have a ‘style’? You know that signature look you identify with that really

seems to work? And just to remind you, style doesn’t have anything to do with how much we spend. The true art of dressing ourselves is to be able to do it on a shoestring.

First things first.... Dedicate some time with pen in hand to make a list. Go to your closet with said writing implement and take inventory of what you already have and what you might need for this season. Staples (your basics) have a way of looking worse for wear after a year, so start there. And, don’t forget undergarments! These

unsung necessities need to be an important part of the equation. Discard old and tired items and refresh with pretty new well-fitting essentials you will love wearing. Now, assess your needs keeping YOUR lifestyle in mind! If most of your days are similar in nature, then use that model while you are shopping. No sense in looking for a chic little pencil skirt if you are in and out of your car a zillion times a day (although the pencil skirt has its place too!)

Look for items that mix, 25

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match, and coordinate easily. This brings function

to a new level that makes sense each and every day, and will also shorten your morning routine considerably. Sign me up for that! If you do, however, need to project a more professional image, choose staples wisely, picking out things based on fit as well as fashion. Remember, well fitting clothing goes a long way and will help you to not only look your best, but feel great too! We’ve got enough going on without having to constantly fuss over an ill-fitting garment. Also, take the time to try things on. You will know how you feel in thirty seconds or less. Trust your full length mirror. If you don’t already have one, invest in one; it’s worth it!

Now for the fun part! You get to put things together to create what we in the fashion biz call “getups”. Once you determine what goes with what, lay the combo on your bed and snap a pic. You may even want to include the coordinating accessories. After you have enough for one work week, print them off and tack them to the inside of your closet. You will be so happy to have these style aids which are certain 26

to speed things along. This mode of dressing is both super efficient and budget conscious. By building a simple “core” wardrobe, your separates will serve you throughout the season. Most of all … BE YOU! A confident woman exudes style! And, don’t forget your smile when you leave the house. It is by far the most image boosting accessory there is.

Deborah Ricci is an award winning Fashion Stylist, talk radio host and freelance columnist living in McKinney, Texas with her husband, Wil. Available locally and nationally, contact her to learn more about ‘Dressing WITH Success’! TheClothesLines. com 972-632-8925

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Spring

Fashion

Off BeatMagazine Time waits for no person and no person will get anywhere waiting on the right time. The only right time is now, and now is the only time we have to make things right. Time will march on to a never ending drum beat for eternity and each of us only has a finite amount of it to complete what we will have an eternity to contemplate after the end of our days.

RESPECT yourself!

Movement and eating are a part of life that, if left to the whims of chance and â&#x20AC;&#x153;genetic issues,â&#x20AC;? will leave you and all the generations that follow in the grave far before your time and reason for living are meant to end. A life cut short is a life wasted, and a world missing an important piece that may never be replaced leaving a whole for all eternity. Your job is 100 years is only 10 decades, the first 20 of which are wasted to lack of experience, and the to fill the world and make it whole with your last 20 of which are wasted to lack of ability. The presence, and the only way to make that happen is by taking care of your health. Plan 6 decades in between will be a mix of learning, your meals and your daily exercise with purpose doing, and teaching in hopes that the next generation will be able to finish what we started so your life can be lived to the fullest and the world can be a little more whole. Self respect and do it better than we ever could. Those and planning are the most important parts of 100 years can either be highly memorable and your day and make every day easier and far productive, or wasted in the sands of time as more rewarding to live. though they never happened and you never existed. Your health and willingness to care The day is what you make of it and your plans for it will greatly determine how much of your for the day are how you make it happen. Meals, precious time is wasted, and to what extent exercise, and family time are the base of any you make a lasting impact in the history of the world around you, the world as a whole, and the schedule, as these are the most important parts of your day. Laxity and procrastination in any of unending record of eternity. these 3 areas will make a life NOT worth living, as they are the things that give life meaning and Failing to plan is said to be planning to fail. the means for living. Work is never ending. No The reality is that failing to plan is form of self matter how much is accomplished today, there punishment due to a lack of self respect and a will be more yet to do tomorrow, and deadlines total lack of respect for others. Take a page out of the book of Franklin and Staple it to your soul, will never be missed when your schedule is in

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MARCH IN, MARCH OUT, MARCH ON

Action Steps For An Inspiring April

By Clint Fuqua kept order according to how you live rather than how the world would make you live. Set your base every day, week, and month so life is lived on your terms, giving you the ability put everything into your life and give more back to the world rather than with world taking everything from your life. Living is what we are born to do. Yes, sitting behind a desk and making calls is needed to pay the bills, but when done properly, the bills will eventually be paid as you live. Many have dreams of retirement as they age out of the work world. Those dreams mostly come down to sitting in a chair to watch TV or traveling for no reason other than a special pricing deal. These are both a retirement from life, not from the desk job that kept you as a slave to the clock. Retirement is an early death rather than a new lease on life to go and live. Living means giving of yourself the things the world needs to continue growing. Living means creating a legacy to be remembered for as long as history will be written. Living means never wasting the finite time given to you in this life. Living is having the ability to give so much that you are empty of all regrets at the end of your days. Caring for your health is the very thing that will give you the ability to live a full and filling life.

Action Steps: 1. March in and do things with purpose. Exercise and eating are purpose filled activities that must have a plan to follow for the best results. Make a plan, execute the plan, and repeat the plan with revisions to improve the plan as you progress. 2. March out and live the rest of your day with purpose. Living is a purpose filled with plans from sun up to sun down. You can either plan the day or the day will plan your activities. Make your plans, execute your plans, and make new plans for the following day to own your schedule. 3. March on and live every day of your life with purpose. Life is a purpose-filled activity. Your life is quite literally what you make of it. Plan your life, live your life, and make sure it is a life worth living, remembering, and memorializing. Visit me at www.ClintFuqua. com and contact me with any questions, comments, request, recommendation, proposals, fan mail, or hate mail at Clint@ClintFuqua. com.

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Get Relief from Spring Allergies Brenda Wakefield, MS, LMT, LMTI, CEP Sneezes, runny nose, itchy eyes, & scratchy throat - when will it end? This is no way to live day after day. As uncomfortable as it may be, there are natural solutions to help the body mend. Consider alternative options such as Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (LDT), Essential Oils (EOs), and Environmental Products (EPs). They’re what all the buzz is around these days in search of holistic remedies to deal with the seasonal spring irritants.

The raindrops saturate, the wind blows, bees pollinate and flowers bloom. Although spring is quite colorful and beautiful, many struggle to breathe and be free of congestion. All it takes is an open window or to even dare to go outside, and the mounds of Kleenex become endless. There’s the shots, netty pot, humidifier, nasal spray and the list goes on. What’s a person to do? Newsflash: Allergies, call on natural remedies for relief, why

wait? Give them a try! Let me introduce Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (LDT), Essential Oils and Environmental Relief Products. All to provide relief at a level your body will appreciate. The body frequently welcomes maintenance to feel better. Think of the body as a welloiled machine to maintain peak performance or an antivirus software to protect your computer from malicious malware. Surely the body deserves a high level of attention to keep the engine flow optimal. So don’t delay get those allergies under control with natural options. Really, the body was divinely created to heal itself when given what it needs. Typically, a hug feels good and most welcome the touch. Imagine the relief a therapeutic touch may bring to clear the sinus passages, stop the runny nose, watery eyes and scratchy throat? LDT, is a light touch therapy designed to bring a sigh of relief to help stagnant fluid move nutrients and toxins in the right direction to improve function of the lymph (immune) system. The allergen irritants linger within the lymph system cause dysfunction

leading dis-ease or ill-feeling. The filters called lymph nodes may become inflamed, painful and swollen, which may lead to pain and discomfort. With a light touch in a specific direction the process to decrease swelling begins and relief is usually felt within minutes if not immediately. Not all cases are as simple as others, but the natural healing process is well worth a few sessions. The number of sessions is determined by the condition addressed and the results shown after treatment. To enhance healing, essential oils can be used. EOs have many purposes such as hormonal, citrus, medicinal and calming to feel better, NATURALLY! Take a look back at history, Kings and Queens used essential oils as medicine that were often more precious than silver or gold. For spring ailments, what do you think would be the oils of choice for breathing issues? A blend of specially formulated essential oils for maximum effectiveness are pure, natural and high quality. In today’s society, more people desire the education to create a combination of essential oils for natural healing to gain relief for

A great remedy to breathe easier is often found in a blend of specific oils. The effectiveness of oils absorbs thru the skin into the bloodstream much faster than ingestion. Oils used for sinus relief are best by inhalation and bath. With a bath, the double whammy is great since a large portion of the skin is submerged and the benefit of inhalation is received from the warmth of the water. The use of aromatherapy to improve the quality of someone’s life cannot be denied. Finally, environmental relief from allergens. According the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air is fifty-percent more polluted than outdoor air. This should concern everyone since we spend approximately ninety-percent of our time indoors. The air we breathe is the transport system for many of the health threats we experience.

Yep, it’s a fact! Consider the closed windows and doors to stay warm or cool dependent on the season. Yes, there are heating/cooling systems in homes, yet many do not remove the toxic brew percolating inside. The beautiful sun stream thru the window yet cloudy or smoky film seen is pollution. How did this happen? Simple, outside follows inside, shoes worn from outside to inside, preparation of meals emit odor and the biggest culprit is skin which sheds millions of dead skin cells every day. Combine all the ingredients of life and we have indoor pollution. The list continues with the building materials from the walls, cabinets, carpet and everything else. The perfume smell of cleaners and detergents -nand even the air freshener to freshen - contribute to this in an unhealthy way, and are not the answer. Think about your morning wake up, is it with a sneeze or two? How about the cough? What is your morning trigger upon rising? I have found we learn to live with irritants because that’s just the way it is. But that’s not true! We get what we get without knowledge of solutions. Technology has improved our indoor space with precision, keeping us cool in during summer and warm during the winter months. Trapped with us are gases, toxins, smells, dust mites, odors (pet, cooking and smoke) as well as mold and mildew. REAL SOLUTION:

Consider an air purifier to address asthma, allergies, odors, viruses and bacteria. Natural healing requires attention and is worth the effort to keep allergies at bay. Shift the focus to alternative healthy living options which may enhance general health and wellbeing.

Brenda Wakefield, MS, LMT, LMTI, CEP offers proactive massage and touch therapies and initiates the body’s natural healing ability after injury. Start feeling better today, call her office at 214-3809700, or her mobile phone at 469-955-6530. Learn more about the therapies she provides at www.handsofchoice.abmp.com. Schedule an appointment in the DFW area at http://styleseat.com/ brendawakefield Keeping it simple, check out www.myvollara.com/bwakefield and invest in your health with cleaner indoor air.

“All it takes is an open window...” 31

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many ailments. When pollen, pollutants and other allergens attack the respiratory system, springtime focus and breathing is easier when these routines are in place. It is important to understand the potency of oils before use and the proper blend technique for safe and effective use. Oils are very strong; much stronger than most things you smell in everyday life. With essential oil use, less is more! All oils are not created equal, they can be derived from various parts of a plant, i.e., root, flower fruits, stalk, leaves, twigs, etcetera. A tell-tell sign of diluted oil is simple, place a drop of oil on a white piece of paper, should it turn gray it is not pure.

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DEBUNKING

Chiropractic Myths BECOMING PAIN FREE By Dr. Luke Arnett

o many people have lived with pain for so long, the idea that they could live pain free is just a nice ‘idea.’ As a matter of fact, many people who could be greatly helped with chiropractic therapies don’t see a chiropractor because they have heard it’s painful. The truth of the matter is that most people who choose chiropractic therapy do so to be free of pain, and return because it works. When the neck, back or limbs are out of alignment, pain is either already evident or about to be. The best time to treat pain is

before it’s acute. Regular adjustments - not frequent - are an important part of preventative care that can stop a big problem before it gets debilitating. Some extremely painful situations are easy to correct, especially if a patient is routinely getting chiropractic care. Patients who are already in severe pain should not be afraid to seek help, however, because adjustments can be made with much less impact than you would think.

Myths About Sciatica Sciatic pain is caused when a herniated disk or

bone spur in the spine presses on a lumbar or sacral nerve root that radiates from the spine down the back, outside or front of one leg. Typically this is experienced on only one side, but not necessarily. One myth is that lower back pain must be present. Sometimes back pain is present, but not always. Numbness or weakness may also occur throughout the leg and foot. Another myth is that sciatica must be lived with, merely treated through physical therapy or pain medication. The medical community expects sciatica to last

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pain free, live pain free, chiropractic therapies, myths about sciatica approximately 6 weeks, but we all know people who have been suffering for years from this condition. My take? People get sick of being told there is

nothing that can be done except wait and medicate. According to Wikipedia, spinal manipulation and acupuncture have poor evidence for ‘use.’ When people are in pain for long periods of time, they get desperate and they get exhausted. These myths, stated as fact, do not help

people seeking relief. Today’s informed patient doesn’t accept a ‘prescription-based’ treatment. We want

SOLUTIONS, and we want fewer toxins in our bodies, not more. Spinal manipulation and skeletal adjustments allow the body to heal itself faster and release pinched, pressed and irritated nerves that have become inflamed due to injury.

You don’t have to live in pain. Regular chiropractic care is the difference in long term pain relief and often boasts shorter recovery time. Dr. Luke Arnett is a practicing chiropractor, Doctor of Functional Medicine, Board Certified In Clinical Nutrition, Fellow of the American Association of Integrative Medicine, and holds Diplomate status with the Chiropractic Board of Clinical Nutrition. Dr. Arnett has extensive practical knowledge of Applied Kinesiology, acupuncture and thermography, and has successfully formulated 14 products to promote overall health. Contact Dr. Luke Arnett and Dallas Wellness Care at 214-351-2299, and start feeling better today.

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Julie Williams Went From Pain to Gain When She Discovered Health Secrets NOT Being Shared In Mainstream America NOW, She’s Teaching What She’s Learned To THOUSANDS Of People Just Like YOU And Traveling All Over The World!

Picture Yourself HERE!

Julie Williams, ‘The Accidental Nutritionist’ is an internationally acclaimed superstar in the health sciences networking arena. Work with Julie, call 817-894-5311 NOW

Financial Freedom | Wellness | Independence

TheHealthDepot.us 34

By Taylor Kay Stephens

In 2005, my business had crumbled, I had no savings and I was $100,000 in debt with no idea how to get out of this mess. As a single, self-employed woman, all by myself, I thought about suicide, bankruptcy or just running away. I was too ashamed and proud to ask for help. I wanted this debt monkey off my back! I started visualizing and feeling what it was like to be debt-free – the feeling was priceless. I didn’t how, but I said it would happen in five years. I had a plan. I took any money left over, even if it was twenty dollars and paid towards my debt –this was like exciting game for me – I focused on it every day because it was fun. In only four years I paid off $80,000 and my yearly income wasn’t even near six figures. I picked a horse, was riding it to the finish line, and we were almost there! I would reach my five-year goal and I wasn’t stressed doing it. All this came to a screeching halt when I stopped listening to my intuition and started listening to experts talk about the “right” way to get out of debt. I had also heard that focusing on your debt just creates more debt. There were also successful friends who told me that what I was doing was wrong, so I bought into it all and switched horses. I started buying courses on the “right” way to get out of debt and how to make lots of money so I could pay off my debt. After doing this for six

long and stressful years, I found myself $30,000 further in debt. Six months ago, I decided to go back and start riding the original horse that had taken me in the direction I wanted to go. I’m very proud to say that I am now within $12,000 of being debt-free which is a far cry from $130,000 and we will cross the finish line very shortly! I don’t blame anyone for my debt and I take full responsibility for my choices, however, if you’re doing something that is working really well, then pick a horse and ride it! Taylor Kay Stephens, speaker, author and transformational life coach, is no stranger to tragedy, adversity and obstacles. She teaches people how to get out of overwhelm, change their bad habits and stop self-defeating behaviors. What makes Taylor different? She challenges the status quo and thinks outside the box. She’s developed her own easy, practical techniques and systems so simple a child can do them. Contact her at resolutionspeaking@sbcglobal.net and discover more taylorkaystephens.com.

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Pick A Horse and Ride It!

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The New Sound...Re-Found Internet Radio GROOVE TIME - Classic Jazz, Big Band, Blues, Motown & Beach Music Easy to operate, just click the Playbox! TUNE IN - Engaging Talk Shows Creating Captivating Dialogue. Listening will enrich your day.

ORIGINATION CREATION - Professionally Produced Audio for Exceptional Branding.

Get plugged in.

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THE BEST DECISION

I EVER MADE By Susan Hamilton

Like you, I’m guilty of making many wrong decisions in my life. I’ve learned from them all. I’ve also made great decisions that have been core to my person - decisions like Jesus, exercise, family-focus and volunteering.

want perfect, they want authentic HELP. If you are the go-to person or company they need and not available in the formats people enjoy, you are cutting off your feet and choosing to be discarded by the very people you want to serve.

But in business, ONE decision in particular made all the difference in the world, and to this day I am grateful I made it. Early on, in my most frustrated moments, during those times when everything I did seemed to suck royally and set me back - I decided to be teachable.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. My decision years ago to be teachable, even when it hurt, made me a better business owner today. Re-evaluate why you’re making the decisions that you are. Back them up or toss them. Get the coaching, training, or classes you need to jump the hurdles because that’s where financial freedom is, and only then can you truly make the difference in your family, business and community that you desire to make.

I had seen, like you, too many instances of people who could break free of their limitations, but chose not to. I heard “This is how we do things” over and over and over again, but saw no continuing education to support the conclusions being clung to. I’m all for running a business ‘your way’ if your way has a supported, valid reason to exist. When we are simply doing things the hard way because we’re afraid learning something new is just too difficult or time consuming, we’re limiting ourselves - on purpose. When we’re doing things just because teaching someone else to do them means giving up control, once again, we’re limiting our growth. When we’re not making the investment in that new system because we don’t want to be too financially strapped for any length of time, we’re stunted. Many a successful business owner who has jumped that hurdle will tell you they ate bologna or went without to make it to the next level.

Have you joined The OffBeat Business Alliance yet? Be counted among the best, join today. Susan Hamilton is the owner, editor-in-chief and talk show host of The OffBeat Business Show & Magazine, a business to business media company spotlighting what’s working right in American business today. To learn how audio, video, digital magazine articles and ads can help you build a strong, influential brand, contact Susan@OffBeatBusiness.com or call 214-714-0495.

No confidence for digital marketing like video, audio or articles with your picture in the bio? Oh, you would, if someone made them perfect first, but that’s too expensive? It’s 2016, and people don’t

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What makes Battle-Buddy Info unique among Resource Directories: Battle-Buddy Info resources are pre-vetted for inclusion into the Directory. Our Users have accessed, and/or research the organizations and many have received services from the listed providers and consider them to be viable sources providing assistance DIRECTLY to a service member or their family. We provide eligibility information as listed on the Resource’s website (i.e. Branch of Service, Disability level, seasonal resource, Branch Specific, geographical, etc.) From Battle-Buddy Info, once the User has determined they meet the criteria for assistance, they can link to the Application Form from our site, eliminating the need to read through pages of content provided by an organization.

Equest

The Equest Hooves for Heroes program offers current service members, honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S.

Armed Forces, and adult military family members the Hooves for Heroes program free of charge.

Attitudes & Attire: Boots to Heels Program

A customized program designed exclusively for female veterans giving them the camaraderie of being with peers who understand the experiences and challenges they face when returning home. We provide a four part program to assist female veterans with their transition from military to civilian life. After participating in our workshops on self-esteem and interview skills, each veteran is invited to select professional attire and accessories from our upscale boutique.

Recovery Resource Council

Recovery Resource Council offers FREE and confidential counseling services through the Enduring Women and Enduring Families Veterans’ Services grant.

Enduring Women provides group counseling and peer support for various issues including, but not limited to, post traumatic stress, military sexual trauma, reintegration issues, substance abuse or parenting difficulties.

Allies in Service

Allies in Service’s mission is to identify and support Dallas area veterans who need assistance in the areas of employment, housing, education, and health care. We partner with veterans, employers, community and other veteran support organizations to educate and enhance the quality of life of our veterans.

Combat Faith

For all warriors needing healing there are some key factors that apply universally. Combat PTSD stems from dangerous situations where their or their comrades’ lives/ health were at stake. Most combat veterans with PTSD had multi-traumas rather

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than just one traumatic incident. The following information on PTSD anecdotes was provided to me by a fellow Vietnam veteran who was wounded in Vietnam as a Navy Corpsman assigned to the Marines. After the case study for each war, there will be suggestions for a spiritual approach to the issues affecting veterans.

Grace After Fire

Grace After Fire was created by women to provide an online resource for women veterans – women helping women. Here you can truly be yourself, laugh, cry, share – and safely gather to identify. You’ll find resources, experts, and fellow women vets around the world that understand where you’re coming from.

Honor Courage and Commitment

Honor Courage Commitment is a nonprofit organization that recruits, educates, mentors, and guides transitioning military veterans into becoming socially responsible entrepreneurs and community leaders.

K9s for Freedom and Independence

We specialize in PTSD and /or TBI Service Dogs. Our focus is on those persons that have served our country as a US Military Member, Law Enforcement Officer, Fire Fighter, EMS Worker.

Suicide Prevention 22tooMany

22toomany Instagram page is for Veterans in dark places. Call anyone listed on the site 24/7. Committed to being available for ALL before a permanent irreversible step is taken.

Logan’s 5

In December of 2013, a request was made by a retired Marine. “Give me five reasons to live each day.” Author and Battle-Buddy Info Founder, responded with a quick, “I can do that!” This is the chronicle of those encouragements, inspirations, and facts of friendship. We can all use a little remembrance and recounting of five reasons to fight, five reasons to stay alive, five reasons to make it through another day.

National Resources Hope for the Warriors

The mission of Hope For The Warriors® is to enhance the quality of life for post-9/11 service members, their fami-

lies, and families of the fallen who have sustained physical and psychological wounds in the line of duty. Hope For The Warriors® is dedicated to restoring a sense of self, restoring the family unit, and restoring hope for our service members and our military families.

IAVA The mission of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is to improve the lives of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans and their families. Rapid Response Referral Program, assigns a case manager to help IAVA members navigate through a variety of resources available to them. The Career Pathfinder program includes resume builder, military skills translator, and career mapping tool.

Veteran Artist Program (VAP) VAP, a 501c3 nonprofit, takes artists who are also veterans, and propels their works and careers into the mainstream creative arts community through networking, mentorships, collaborations with professional artists, and original productions. Weekly Podcast features veterans in the Arts.