JANUARY 2013

Top Stories

Family

WINTER WORKOUT TIPS

and

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO PREPARE FOR YOUR PROFESSIONAL FUTURE?

REBRANDING THE AUTHENTIC YOU IN 2013!

Janet C. Hart
VICE PRESIDENT OF PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS FOR THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

MAJOR EXPENSES TAXES

PREPARING FOR ONE OF RETIREMENTS

NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS

D
Mimi

Dear Readers,
I am very excited about 2013! As we all start the New Year, dont forget to follow your dreams and your passion! Set realistic goals, if you havent done so already. Mark your calendars for March 19, 2013 for our 2nd annual Making An Impact Conference For Women! The three amazing speakers will make on impact on your life and world! Our mobile website is live and compatible with all smart phone and tablet devices! You can read the full magazine in the pdf format any time now!!! Lets us all remember to support each other and make 2013 the year for small businesses to make it big! Have a great month,

Mimi Zelman Publisher

Connect And Grow With Women In Our Community

Publisher/President Mimi L. Zelman mimi@womenwithknowhow.com Events Partner Wendy Whitehurst wendy@womenwithknowhow.com Creative Director Juliana Lievano www.JulianaCreativeDesigns.com Contributing Writers Terri Bennett Elyshia Brook Robyn Crigger Cover Photography by Cover Photoghraphy by Benny Dawkins of New Day Productions For more advertising information call Mimi at 704-491-1207 or email her at: mimi@womenwithknowhow.com Copyright 2012

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43 44
24New Years Resolutions 46Preparing for One of Retirements Major
Expenses Taxes

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10Rebranding2013! The Authentic You in

Professional Future?

20What For Your Doing 40How toKitchen Less Are You Create To Prepare Trash in the 22Whats in aofName? An Explanation
Trademarks

On the cover Janet C. Hart

www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

Contents
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professional spotlight

Juliana Livano
By Mimi Zelman

How did you get started in this business?

I came to the US nine years ago; I am from Colombia, South America. Thinking back to my life there, I always enjoyed my art and music classes, and I was one of the few with the highest scores. I know it sounds funny, but believe or not you need to have a passion for it. After graduating from High School in Colombia, and only being sixteen years old, I decided to repeat 12th grade here, and learn the language. I did really well for one year, and after

graduating again, I decided to go for my Degree in Advertising and Graphic Design. I met wonderful teachers, who taught me so many things and added to my life the kind of person and designer I am today. I also had the opportunity to do my internship with The Charlotte Observer in the magazine department, and met amazing mentors for my life. I always had the passion for editorial design, so being part of this company was a wonderful experience. I was also doing some freelancing work, designing a local magazine for a Latin

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Store. After graduating, I was able to start working for a great company in the Charlotte area doing what I love the most: designing magazines. They opened the doors for me and made me part of their family. I would say my experience there was a big challenge. Not only because it was my first real job, but because I wanted to learn so many things. At this point of my life, I really became a Graphic Designer. I thanked God for the opportunity he gave me to be part of it, and meet so talented mentors; they made me stronger. A year I later, I got pregnant and decided to start my own business: JULIANA CREATIVE DESIGNS. I was blessed to have the opportunity to be with my baby at home, and at the same time doing what I love. Its been 2 and a half years, and I feel very happy of all the achievements I have made until this day. I have met wonderful people that not only are my clients but friends. I had the opportunity to work with Mimi Zelman, and start a new journey in my life. She has been an extraordinary person, and has helped my business grow in many different ways. Every time I design something I learn so many things, not only for my design experience, but for my personal life. I

think God knows us individually, and he always places people in our lives for a reason.

What is a good early story about your business?

About a month ago, I received an e-mail from a new client about an extraordinary project: An ipad magazine. I have worked doing many print and online projects, but I didnt have the opportunity to design an ipad magazine, and I was excited for this new experience. After finishing my project, I felt very proud of my work. My client was very happy with the results, and after posting my work online, this lead me to find more clients under this field. I believe there is nothing you cannot do, if you really want to achieve it. There are no limits in life; you choose them. I am choosing to keep learning every day, and to continue meeting amazing new people.

What is unusual or unique about your business, in comparison to your Competitors or similar businesses?
I approach my designs, not only as art, but also a purposeful way to better communicate an idea. In todays life design refers mostly to style or fashion, to the superficial, to decorative elements that are just employed at
www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

the end of the design process. Richard Seymord wrote: Design is making things better for people. He emphasizes that the most important thing about design and the one we should focus on is human behavior, and quality of life. I think that we as designers are here to make things easier for people, not more complicated. Any product without and specific purpose, may be art, but is definitely not design.

happy with the results. REAL TEENS was the name of it. It helped kids to text questions about sex. Sometimes, this a very hard topic to talk at home, and this was one of the reasons so many young kids were having babies as such a young age. Heres the video I did for the campaign: HYPERLINK http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=gVPNCI4_OCE http://www. youtube.com/watch?v=gVPNCI4_OCE

Is there a customer experience you are most proud of?

I feel proud of all of them. Each one has taught me good or bad things. At the end, both are learning experiences. They teach me what not to do again, or maybe what I should keep doing. Every customer adds something special to my career, and this will always continue.

What are some of your greatest challenges in your business?

As a working mother of two, I strive to find the right work/life balance. When Im designing I always give 100% to my clients, but I also work to ensure I dedicate time to my kids each day.

What would you most like the reader to know about your journey in business?

For me it was about finding something that I love to do, gaining Do you do any charity experience and exposure in the field, or nonprofit work? and then developing a business plan I have done a couple of charity servic- to be able to work independently and es for some schools and academies. fit my family-focused lifestyle. I had to opportunity to help them with their website design. I also did a Juliana Creative Designs lot of charity work in college. Juliana Lievano I actually had the opportunity to dejulianacreativedesigns@gmail.com sign a Teen Pregnancy campaign for www.JulianaCreativeDesigns.com my last year of college, and I felt very 980.322.8881
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The Best Way for Charlotte Region Businesswomen to Do Business!

eWomenNetwork is excited to announce that Women With Know How is our new media partner. eWomenNetwork connects women and their businesses worldwide with a Give First, Share Always philosophy. The Greater Charlotte Region chapter offers the opportunity for women to make empowering connections through monthly Accelerated Networking Events, Strategic Business Introductions and members-only events. Members also get exposure throughout the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and around the world through the eWomen Network website at www.ewomennetwork.com.

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marketing

by Terri Bennett Elysha Brooks

Rebranding The Authentic You in 2013!

our brand is the image and the face that you present to the world and how you do just that is all about how you position yourself and the message that you want to share. With the New Year now here, you can be more intentional about how you brand yourself and your business. I say you and your business because in all actuality, you and your business are one. As a woman entrepreneur and business owner you own your brand and how you have designed your business is centered around you, your thoughts, desires and passion. Therefore, it should speak to your true authentic self and how want to serve the world. It is time to own who you are and your own unique way of doing business.

to do business with you, they appreciate the value you bring to their life or business, your values, purpose vision and goals to achieve results in some area are in sync. Additionally, they have no problem paying you what you are worth because they recognize and value what you offer. Divine clients are called to you and your souls connect because you get each other.

I had the opportunity to experience this again and most recently, as I was preparing my forth coming book Branding the Authentic You (releasing this month), as I was excited to meet my graphic designer whom I was seeking to design my book cover. I did meet with many as I do with anything that I am putting my name to because I do value what I do. I had the pleasure Your brand incorporates who you are, of meeting Leah Ponds one mornhow you are called to serve, your per- ing and asked questions, shared my desires and it was amazing how our sonality, your hearts desires and your souls just synced because she caught souls message to your divine clients what was in my heart and soul were that you serve. I speak of Divine Clients as those clients that are supposed saying and did a beautiful job from the
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initial start. When you find and work with your divine clients, there are no questions or any doubts about how you serve them and them serving you because it just happens. When a divine relationship begins, it blossoms from possibility into something that is unexplainable. All of your divine business relationships with your clients should be that way. Divine client relationships should satisfy your soul and you should feel it because it feels right. When you are working with your divine clients you are excited to do the work, it speaks to your spirit and you are able to do

your very best work because you enjoy doing it. On the other hand, they are pleased and dont have to worry and call you to see if you are doing what you are supposed to be enjoying doing. They value you and how you serve them because they are able and willing to pay you what you are worth without any problems. You know when you meet with a new client and you get a feeling in the pit of your stomach that just does not feel right but you take on that client anyway, only to find out that you dread taking them on? Have you done that or it is only me that can relate? I admit

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I can sit with potential clients who may or may not be excited about what they do and all of the time I am sitting there knowing in my soul that this business relationship will not work out. This could stem from several reasons such as: Their passion is not present and for me to do the work, I have to see the commitment. They are not committed to the mission, vision and dont see the value in working with a marketing and branding coach. They come with asking so many questions to get out paying for the service and therefore, devaluing the service and what I came to do in this world. As a business owner, you value you, your intellectual properties, gifts, talents and when someone tries to talk you down or devalue you, at some point you have to step back and command your worth. That is what I do when I encounter others who seek to go down that road. However, it comes down to what you stand for and what your brand means, in addition, to how your brand is perceived. If you begin to settle your brand, other will sense that and then you will begin to attract those types of potential clients and that is not what you want to do. When you devalue your brand, you are giving others to do the same and it becomes hard to bounce back from.
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So when you are redesigning or rebranding you or your business, you need to do a few things so that you are in alignment with what you envisioned. Your vision and your branding message comes from your soul and should resonate with what you have to give to the world. A few things to really think about would include: Write your brands mission, purpose, and the meaningful vision around what your brand is to bring into the world. This means journaling your thoughts and make sure you are in alignment. What are your brand new color schemes, fonts, and meaning behind them all. Once you are in alignment with your mission, what is your marketing and branding message that will sum up what you offer and how you offer it? Design your 30 second marketing message that speaks boldness so others will remember your immediately. Know the top 3-5 products and services that you will be known for and craft it so that it speaks exactly who you are and your uniqueness. Speak, live and BE your brand daily. In other words, design your brand lifestyle because you and your brand are one. These are only the tip of the iceberg of actions steps to do because there are several other action items

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that need to be completed. Once you begin with these action items, keep in mind that your brand needs to be owned by you; therefore, bring your authenticity out so that others can connect with you and your brand. When you take total control of your brand, others will notice and appreciate you and your business. So own what you have and all that is within you. When you know what you know and you are able to understand your divine clients and what they will perceive of you and it is aligned, then you are are on the right path to building a bigger conscious-centered brand that speaks exactly who you are.

For More Information: Exerts from Elyshias new book. Elyshia Brooks is the new author of Branding The Authentic You: Building a Conscious-Centered Brand & Lifestyle that Speaks to Your Extraordinary Self. releases this month, January 2013! www.ElyshiaBrooks or email to elyshia@ElyshiaBrooks.com
Elyshia Brooks-Carr Consulting, coaching and training company that works with heart-felt, conscious entrepreneurs and service-based businesses. Elyshia@ElyshiaBrooks.com / 800.511.5410 www.ElyshiaBrooks.com www.KreativeGroupInc.com

Since 1949, the survival rate for many blood cancer patients has tripled. In some cases quadrupled. Whats one more survivor?

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Janet C. Hart

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Just because the season has changed, it doesnt mean that you have to give up on your workout routine. Here are a few winter workout tips from Aaron Ruth, strength and conditioning coach at St. Vincents Sports Performance in Indianapolis, which works with more than 300 professional and amateur athletes. You can stay fit no matter what the temperature is outside.

Winter WorkoutTips

Connect And Grow With Women In Our Community

Dont Skip the Warm Up In colder weather, your muscles are tighter, making them more prone to muscle pulls and strains. Spend a little more time warming up your body to help you avoid injury. Stay Hydrated When its cooler outside, you generally drink less water but when you exercise, you still sweat and lose fluids and electrolytes. Be sure to drink plenty of water before and during your workout to avoid dehydration.

after you work out is just as important, if not more, than what you put in it before. After exercising, refuel and rebuild your muscles with essential carbs and protein by drinking great tasting Rockin Refuel Intense Recovery protein fortified milk. Made with 100 percent real milk, Intense Recovery is packed with 20 grams of natural protein and features a 2:1 carb to protein ratio, which is ideal for optimal muscle recovery.

Wear Sunscreen It might be cooler outside, but you can still get sunburned. Dress in Layers Exercising generChoose sunscreen that blocks both UVA ates body heat and sweat, and when and UVB rays, and has an SPF of at least sweat starts to dry in cold weather you 30. Dont forget to protect your lips with can get chilled. Dress in layers that can a lip balm that has sunscreen. be removed when you start to sweat. Start with a thin layer of synthetic ma- Vary Your Routine Beat the winter terial which will draw sweat away from workout blues by changing up your rouyour body. Then add a layer of fleece tine and by having fun. Get the whole or wool, and top it all off with a water- family moving by doing things together proof and breathable outer layer. such as building a snowman, going ice skating or sledding, making snow angels, Protect Your Extremities When its and having a snowball fight. cold outside, the body tends to concentrate blood flow to the core, which For more tips for your winter workout can leave your hands, feet and ears or to purchase Rockin Refuel Intense susceptible to frostbite. Wear gloves, Recovery, visit: warm socks and a hat or headband. www.rockinrefuel.com Have a Post-Workout Refueling Plan What you put in your body
Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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business

by Robyn Crigger

What Are You Doing To Prepare For Your Professional Future?

f this current economic situation has taught us anything, it is to stay better informed and to keep our professional lives healthy. For so long we have depended on big businesses to take care of us, but as we have seen, many of them cant seem to take care of themselves! Instead, we have seen much irresponsibility of prominent businesses and decision makers. How discouraging! Instead of admitting irresponsible behavior, they are looking to all other Americans to bail them out. Do you think that any of us would be bailed out if we mishandled our business? Dont hold your breath!

our careers and/or businesses on a proactive path. How are you and your work doing? Like an annual physical, how healthy is your career and/or business? Are you financially healthy? What do you need to do to stay that way? Take time to review your past year. Did you business dwindle toward the end of 2008? From where does most of your business come? Referrals, website, ads, sponsorships, direct mailings, cold calls, special promotions? What works for you? Be sure to utilize those efforts that produce the best results. Also, give your work some fresh air! Take some classes or workshops that will strengthen your own skills and grow business. Look for a challenge to wake up your brain and stir up creativity. Develop your own Board of Advisors to include people in industries who are not competitors, but target similar areas/industries, etc. Exchange ideas or combine efforts to stir activity. Experiment by visiting new network

However it is time for us to look at our own situations. We could whine and complain about our tough lives, but Id rather see we women professionals take a more adult, responsible approach. Lets learn from others. How can we avoid such catastrophes, and keep our professional futures healthy? We need a focused, solid plan to keep
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groups, who might broaden your contact base and open your eyes to new perspectives. Be selective. This could grow your own network. Consider being a speaker to other groups, who could benefit from your experiences, while making them aware of you and your expertise. Each month be sure to have a new goal or project for yourself. Some may not work out well, but others will. Explore but wise. Have a great 2013!

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business law

by Mitzi Kincaid

Whats in a Name? An Explanation of Trademarks

lients ask me every day about trademarks and how to get them so I thought I would explain some basics to familiarize you with the trademark process. My law firm regularly files trademarks for clients and it typically takes six to nine months to complete registration so it is best to start the process sooner rather than later. A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol or design, or a combination of words, phrases, symbols or designs, that identifies and distinguishes the source of the goods of one party from those of others. Coca Cola, Just Do It and Dunkin Doughnuts are a few examples of famous trademarks. A service mark is the same as a trademark, except that it identifies and distinguishes the source of a service rather than a product. BellSouth, Roto Rooter and Terminix are some examples of service marks.

ferred to as trademarks because they are obtained in the same manner through the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). If you think of a catchy name (not merely a descriptive one) for your business or a catchy phrase for your products or services, you can claim the name or phrase without registering the mark with the USPTO, but beware, like all things in life you get what you pay for. If you simply use the name and do not register your name or phrase or check to see if your name or phrase infringes on someone elses name or phrase you could be in for legal trouble down the road.

Registering your name, phrase or logo provides notice to the public of your claim of ownership of the mark; a legal presumption of your ownership of the mark and your exclusive right to use the mark nationwide on or in connecFor the purpose of this article, trademarks tion with the goods and/or services listed in the registration. You do not and service marks are going to be re22
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have to be an attorney to file and register a trademark but it is best to use an experienced attorney because the USPTO uses strict guidelines and a language all their own that is difficult to understand if you are not an intellectual property attorney.

Do you have a business legal question you would like for me to answer? Submit it to HYPERLINK mailto:mkincaid@kincaidandassociates.commkincaid@kincaidandassociates.com. Each month I will answer a reader or client question so that our entire business community can benefit from quality Registration of your mark usually takes six information to help your business become to nine months. It is also possible to file for and maintain its profitability. a trademark before you actually start selling your goods and services to ensure you Kincaid and Associates, LLC protect your name, phrase or logo. Once 301 McCullough Dr. 4th Floor you receive your registration certificate Charlotte, NC 28262 you can renew your mark by periodically 866-435-5971 filing statements of use with the USPTO. Trademarks are actually intangible property that you own, can transfer, assign and sell. Once you own the trademark you can usually prohibit your competitors from getting a similar mark for similar goods and/or services which can give your business a tremendous advantage. Registrations for marks last ten years so long as the mark is being used in commerce and the owner files an affidavit of use between the fifth and sixth year of use. Additional ten year periods are also granted so long as the mark is still used in commerce. Have you registered your business name, catch phrase or logo yet? Call an experienced intellectual property attorney today to protect your most important asset, your name.
www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

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family law

by Rebecca K. Watts

New Years Resolutions

n the subject of New Years resolutions, Wikipedia has this to say: A New Years resolution is a Promise commitment that a person makes to one or more personal Goal goals, projects, or the reforming of a Habit (psychology) habit. A key element to a New Years Resolution that sets it apart from other HYPERLINK http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resolution \o Resolution resolutions is that it is made in anticipation of the New Year and new beginnings. People committing themselves to a New Years resolution generally plan to do so for the whole following year. This Lifestyle (sociology) lifestyle change is generally interpreted as advantageous. While many of us will make New Years resolutions regarding physical health (exercise more, eat better), despite our best intentions, those resolutions are often short-lived and so do not have a long lasting positive effect on our lives. So, I suggest that perhaps a resolution regarding financial health may

be in order; specifically, a resolution to become more financially savvy. By that I do not mean that we should all take an economics class or study the workings of the New York Stock Exchange; I am talking about something much closer to home. If you are married or are contemplating marriage, you do not want to think about the possibility of your marriage ending, but the reality is that many marriages end in divorce and those that do not end in divorce end in death. If you divorce or if your spouse predeceases you, you need to know more than just enough to handle your day to day financial issues. I cannot tell you how many women I see who do not have a good understanding of the combined household income, the monthly expenses, the debt service, and the savings and investment portfolios. Sometimes the lack of knowledge is a result of a division of household labor (one spouse handles the finances), sometimes it is a result of active concealment (one spouse does not want the other to

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know what is going on), and sometimes it is the result of a conscious decision to maintain separate bank accounts and to have each spouse take responsibility for certain expenses. If you and your spouse separate or if your spouse dies, you will need to know details about your income, his income, tax filings, mortgages, bank accounts, credit cards, IRAs, 401(k)s, mutual funds, etc. You do not want to walk into a domestic or estate attorneys office and not have a good idea of who the mortgage is with, what is owed, what the monthly payment is, where the bank accounts are, what is invested, where the retirement accounts are, etc. and as difficult as it may be to have a conversation with your spouse now about disclosure and information, it will be more difficult to try to pull that information out of him in the midst of a heated divorce or to locate that information after he dies. So, go ahead and make those resolutions about going to the gym and giving up sweets, but then after you come back from the gym and have your healthy salad for dinner, sit down and work on your financial health for a healthier, happier 2013.
Rebecca K. Watts Board Certified Specialist in Family Law Krusch and Sellers, P.A.

5950 Fairview Road, Suite 808 Charlotte, NC 28210 Phone: 704-556-0707 Fax: 704-553-7824 becky.watts@kruschlaw.com www.kruschlaw.com

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Janet C. Hart
Vice President of Public Relations and Communications for the Better Business Bureau of the Southern Piedmont of North and South Carolina. A Most Impactful Women!!
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 anagesBBBsreputationasatrusted M expert and consumer resource.  ervesasbrandchampion,insuring S compliance with national brand standards and developing opportunities to elevate and enhance the brand ncreased Charlotte BBBs national media with key publics. I ranking to #1 out of 145 BBBs nationwide.  oordinatesspeakersbureauforcomC munity events and trade shows.  ervesasanationwideBBBmedia S  onductsresearchtosupportinterC expert for BBB public relations profesnal and external communications sionals. Serves on national BBB Comand media releases. munications Task Force.  evelopedquantitativetrackingsysD  ervesasanExpertonCallforThe S tem to measure media activity and to Charlotte Business Journal. gauge effectiveness of media relations.  ecured1,500interviewsandplaced S more than 24,000 local and national media stories in print, broadcast and digital Janets career in public relations spans 25 years and includes extensive experimedia outlets including NBCs Today Show, USA Today, CBS Early Show, Busi- ence in communications, media relaness Week, ESPN, MSNBC, FOX National tions and external relations Janet joined News, AOL and NPR. Secured recurring the Better Business Bureau as Director of Public Relations in 2007. In 2009, she local television segments. was promoted to Vice President of Pub ervesonBBBsleadershipteam,reS lic Relations and Communications. porting directly to the President/CEO.  rovidescounselandmediatrainingto Prior to working with the Better BusiP ness Bureau, Janet served as: CEO, senior staff and Board. Serves as the BBBs media contact and spokes resident&CEOofTheLupusFoundaP woman for local and national media. tion of Americas Piedmont Chapter  evelopsanddisseminatesinternal, D V external and digital communications to  icePresidentofMarketingandFund Development for Goodwill Industries of key publics. the Southern Piedmont  evelopandwritesexecutivecommuD nications for CEO and Board of Directors.  xecutiveDirectoroftheBankofAmeriE
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Janet is Vice President of Public Relations and Communications for the Better Business Bureau of the Southern Piedmont of North and South Carolina. In this role, she:

www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

ca Coconut Grove Arts Festival in Miami  irectorofFundDevelopmentforSpirit D Square Center for Arts & Education  olunteerCoordinatorforTheMint V Museum of Arts Ramesses The Great Art Exhibit. The impact of Janets work as Vice President of Public Relations and Communications for the Better Business Bureau of Southern Piedmont is tremendously important to the Southern Piedmont community. Simply put, Janet prevents consumers from becoming victims. The messages that she develops and disseminates to consumers via media relations and social media channels are designed to increase consumer awareness about scams and bad busi30

nesses. Each year, Janet researches and writes 80 to 100 news releases that are distributed to the media. These news releases generate more than 300 media interviews and more than 6,000 media hits per year in print, broadcast and digital media. She has developed excellent relationships with the media and is well-respected as a trusted resource. Through Janets comprehensive communications efforts, she has been instrumental in influencing consumers to check with the BBB before they contract with businesses. When Janet began work with the BBB in 2007, less than a half million people per year checked out local businesses with the BBB. In

Connect And Grow With Women In Our Community

2012, the BBB projects that nearly two million people will check on local businesses. By increasing consumer awareness, especially with vulnerable populations such as older adults and Latinos, fewer people will become victims of bad businesses, frauds and scams.

2006, Janets work changed lives by putting people to work. In this position, she:

 anagedGoodwillsreputationasa M good steward of the publics trust.  evelopedandimplementedbranding D campaign to increase awareness about Goodwills mission from 15% to 52%. Janets work has been directly respon-  anagedGoodwillsvolunteerand M sible for exposing mortgage forecommunity service program involving closure rescue scams which began 8,000 volunteers. with the downturn in the economy.  anagedGoodwillsCarsforWorkcar M In 2007, she brought national media donation program to provide more attention to the issue of mortgage than 700 donated vehicles to low foreclosure rescue scams. income individuals who needed transportation to work. Another issue that Janet has been  oordinatedVicePresidentAlGores C responsible for bringing public atvisit to Goodwill to spotlight the orgatention to is predatory towing in and nizations job training programs. around uptown Charlotte. Janets work to increase awareness about the Janet is very involved in problem generated substantial media the business community attention which influenced City lead- The Better Business Bureau of Southern ers to study the issue and to adopt Piedmont has 4,000 Accredited Business new rules for towing companies. members and has information on more than 70,000 businesses in the Southern Through Janets work with the Better Piedmont area. Business Bureau, she has influenced people to be savvy consumers and to The BBBs mission is to create an ethimake careful pre-purchase decisions. cal marketplace where consumers and Most importantly, she has prevented businesses trust each other. Janets people from becoming victims. helps accomplish the BBBs mission As Vice President of Marketing and Fund by publicizing bad businesses that Development for Goodwill Industries of dont respond to or resolve consumer the Southern Piedmont from 1999 to complaints. By holding bad businesses
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www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

accountable, she effectively promotes good business practices. She also serves on: Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), Charlotte Chapter - Janet has dedicated her time and expertise to the PRSA Charlotte in multiple volunteer capacities including: Member 1999 to present Board of Directors - 2009 to present President - 2010-2011 President-elect - 2010-2011 Treasurer 20092010 Recipient of the PRSA Infinity Award in 2012 the highest honor given to a practicing public relations professional. National Leadership Rally - 2010 National Leadership Assembly, Charlotte Chapter Delegate - 2009, 2010 and 2011; National Delegate At Large 2012 Annual Awards Dinner Committee 2007, 2008, Chair - 2011 and 2012 Accreditation Mentor to five APR candidates, Served on three APR Readiness Review Panels Career Mentor to 18 public relations professionals Taught four sessions on Public Relations Ethics and Law at PRSA Charlotte 2011, 2012 Taught Media Relations for Nonprofits at PRSA Charlotte meeting - 2011 Master the Six Rs of Media Relations at PRSA Charlotte Young Professionals Meeting 2011
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Member 1999 to present Democratic National Convention Janet is currently serving as PRSA Charlotte liaison to the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) to coordinate public relations and communications professionals to work with the international media contingent during the Convention - 2012 Charlotte Ethics in Business Awards Janet served as a committee member for the annual awards event in 2008, 2009, 2010 Charlotte Regional Emergency Preparedness (READY) Coalition Janet served on the READY Coalition from 2007 through 2011 to bring attention to the importance of disaster planning. Hurricane Katrina Emergency Response - Janet coordinated services provided by Goodwill Industries to Hurricane Katrina evacuees who were relocated to Charlotte in 2003. She was responsible for coordinating the donation and distribution of critically-needed clothing, shoes, furniture, cars and bottled water. WSOC-TVs Nine Who Care Awards Janet served on the awards committee from 2002 through 2006 as a judge

Connect And Grow With Women In Our Community

to select the individuals and organizahighest honor given to a practicing tions that were recognized for their con- public relations professional. tributions to the community. The Charlotte Business Journal International Festivals & Events Asked to participate as a media relations Association member (IFEA) Janet Expert on Call 2012 was actively involved in IFEA activities from 1991 to 2011. She: The Mecklenburg Times - Named one Spoke on Mastering the Six Rs of Media of the 50 Most Influential Women in Relations at IFEAs NC/SC Charlotte - 2011 Conference 2012 Spoke on Maximizing Public Relations University of North Carolina at Chathrough Media Sponsorships at IFEAs pel Hill, Bachelor of Science in Business Southeastern Conference, 2008 Administration - 1983 Spoke on Selling Title Sponsorships for Festivals and Events at IFEAs InternaDuke University, Certificate in Nontional Conference 1998 profit Management 2001 Spoke on Selling Exclusive vs. Non-Exclusive Media Sponsorships at the IEGs International Festivals & Events International Conference 1996 Association (IFEA):  ertificateinFestivalsandEventsManC Janet has received many awards agement (CFEE) 1999, recertification because of her service to our 2008, a credential earned by fewer community. They include: than 300 people worldwide Janet has earned outstanding educa ominatedforIFEAsHallofFamein N tional and professional credentials. She 2007, 2008, 2009 is highly regarded as a media relations  ontheIFEAsGrandPinnacleAward W expert and has been invited to speak at for the best public relationc campaign in local, national and international meetthe world for a festival or event in 1996 ings and conferences. PRSA Universal Accreditation Board, Better Business Bureau: Accreditation in Public Relations Invited to speak at BBB International (APR) 2009, reaccreditation 2012 Communications Conference 2012 Invited to present during national BBB PRSA Charlotte Infinity Award the Media Relations webinar 2011
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www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

Asked to serve on BBB National Communications Task Force 2012 Recognized as BBB National Media Relations Expert on Call - 2011 Leadership Training Programs Completed: PRSA National Leadership Rally, 2010 PRSA Southeast District Leadership Rally, 2010 Leadership Charlotte, 1999 Leadership Lake Norman, 2000 Charlotte Chamber of Commerce Leadership Training Program, 1997 WLNK 107.9 The Link Selected as Leading Lady for outstanding community work 2006 Women With Know How Most Impactful Women Award, 2012 How did you get started? My mother worked very hard to support our family on a small salary, but money was tight. So, I learned at an early age that I had to work and earn money to have or do the extra things in life that I wanted. I began working when I was 11 years old. I sold tomatoes in my front yard for 10% commission each summer. The fall was pecan season and I had a similar commission arrangement with my mother. We had 21 pecan trees
34

in our yard and my job was to pick up pecans 500 pounds per year. I supplemented my tomato and pecan commissions with babysitting money. When I was old enough to get a real job, I worked at restaurants to earn money after school and on weekends. I am very proud of the fact that I had a checking account by age 12 and I paid for my own car, car insurance, clothes and braces for my teeth. I also had a work study job while I was in school at UNC Chapel Hill. For four years, I worked with two of the most wonderful people who ran the Upward Bound program for at-risk high school students. After Carolina, I sold advertising for trade publications for 3 yrs., and volunteered for political candidates. While volunteering, I got to plan and promote events and news conferences which I really liked. So, I began working in nonprofit organizations planning and promoting events and festivals and that is how I got into public relations. How has your prior career experiences prepared you for your journey in life? I had job opportunities which involved living in other cities. I lived in Houston, San Diego and Miami each city for two years. What I learned about leaving N.C. was how much I longed for N.C.

Connect And Grow With Women In Our Community

This will always be my home. I moved back to N.C. in 1997 and there is nothing that could ever lure me away again. What would you like for people to know about your Journey In life? My journey is life has been difficult and filled with tragedy. My only grandparent died when I was 13, my father died when I was 17, two of my close friends were killed by drunk drivers when I was 19 and 20, and then, my mother died when I was 21. Going through these sad experiences has made me a person who is compassionate, independent, serious, driven, strong and resilient. I have succeeded against tremendous odds and I am stronger than I ever thought I could be. Who would you describe as your mentor(s) and why? My primary mentor and hero was my mother. She worked very hard all of her life and was devoted to me and my sister. She died from suddenly from a cerebral aneurysm when I was a junior at Carolina. I wish she would have lived long enough to see me graduate from college because I was the first person in my family to achieve that goal. Two other people had an impact on my life as well: 1) When I was 16 years old, I won the William H. Danforth Leadership

Award. The prize was his book filled with inspirational messages. I have kept that little book for 35 years and often refer back to it. 2) My other mentor was Dr. Ronald Hoag who taught English at Carolina. He was my professor for English Composition during my freshman year and he really taught me how to write. Subject, verb, object, he would say. Writing doesnt have to be complicated, but it does have to be logical. I felt like a light bulb went off and suddenly, I got it. I took two more English courses that he taught and I credit him with me being a writer today. Whats on your bucket list and why? There are several items on my bucket list: 1) I write first-person anecdotal humor. So, I would love to write a book, and go on a book tour with book signings in major cities. 2) I studied French in high school and college, and now I want to learn to speak Italian because I want to travel more extensively in Europe and be able to speak other languages. Any difficult times youd care to share with our readers?? And if so what lesson have you learned? Growing up in rural N.C., I was active in the 4-H program and it had a profound
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www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

impact on my life. When I was 16, I received the William H. Danforth; I Dare You leadership award through 4-H and the prize was Danforths book. In his book of inspirational messages, Danforth urges you to, DARE to live in the presence of the BEST! He wrote - Launching your ship is a gala occasion, but the storms and the waves are the tests. With an absentee father and a mother who earned minimum wage, I was determined from an early age to have a better life. Little did I know that the obstacles I would encounter - the storms and the waves - would be so great. My father died when I was 17, and then, my mother died unexpectedly during my junior year at Carolina when I was just 21. A few days later, I took the family cat and went back to school in Chapel Hill as an orphan with no home and no money. It wasnt easy, but through it all, I succeeded. It means so much to me because it is validation of how far the little girl from Boiling Springs -- who launched her ship and survived through the storms and the waves to dare to be in the presence of the BEST -- has come. What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
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People would be surprised to know that I have had so many unique experiences. I have hiked up Diamond Head in Hawaii. I have ridden in an off-shore hydroplane race boat at 160 mph. I have been to a glitzy Hollywood movie premiere complete with red carpet and mega stars. I have sung on-stage with Barry Manilow. I have swam with dolphins and fed stingrays. What inspires you? I am inspired by people who have persevered against tremendous odds like Aimee Copeland from Georgia. In May, 2012, she contracted a flesh-eating virus after a zip line accident. As the bacteria ravaged her body, Aimee had to have both hands, both feet, and her left leg amputated. She lived when she should have died and is now a shining example to other people who are facing what seem like insurmountable obstacles. What makes you laugh? There are several things that make me laugh. I love really well-written satire. I also cant help but laugh at some of the things that my dog, Spotsy, has figured out how to do. He barks when I talk on the phone because he knows that I will give him treats to shut him up. So now, when he wants treats, he will bark and

Connect And Grow With Women In Our Community

nudge the phone with his nose as if he is telling me, call someone, Im hungry! If you could do one thing differently in your life, what would that be? I wish I had gone to graduate school immediately after college to earn an MBA degree. After I had graduated, I was working two jobs and volunteering for various causes. So, I found it more difficult to find a way to afford, or to make the time to work on earning a Masters degree. If you could stand up and defend anything, what would it be? Equality. I believe that people should be treated equally and fairly. Discrimination, in any form that it may occur, is simply unacceptable. I was once told that fair does not mean equal, it means equitable. I found that hard to accept because equitable is subject to interpretation. The gray area of interpretation is where the perception of unfairness or inequality lies and feelings of anger and discrimination exists. Janet really shows through her lifes journey, despite tragedy and obstacles, we can accomplish anything we set out to do. I am thankful for the opportunity to have gotten to know her though our awards dinner and grateful she was

nominated and won our Most Impactful Women Award this year. Janet will also be speaking at our 2nd annual Making An Impact Conference For Women on March 19, 2013 at the Blake Hotel. I know she will inspire all who attend!

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green

by Terri Bennett

How to Create Less Trash in the Kitchen

ets face it the kitchen is one trashy place. In fact, each person in your home creates about 4 pounds of trash each day and most of it comes out of this room! So, Do Your Part and trash less.

portions, or using them in a different recipe is the way to go. And composting leftovers will create a valuable fertilizer for your lawn and garden.

Then, there are the one-use items that get trashed. Save money by usLets start with what you bring into ing reusable rags and clothes instead the kitchen. Reusable bags are a must. of pricey paper towels. Choose cloth Get yourself a bunch of different sizes napkins instead of paper ones. Put an and youre set for any shopping trip. end to plastic water bottles and invest But, you also need to think about in a few reusable ones. waste as you shop. And these reusable plastic covers are Anything individual sized flat out costs good alternatives to one-use plasmore so opt for buying in bulk when tic wrap or foil. Adding a few simple you can. You can make your own inchanges to your kitchen routine will dividual portions by using reusable help you Do Your Part to create less containers. Also, buy items that come trash and keep more money in in easy to recycle packaging that you your pocket. can toss into the recycling bin. Now, the absolute biggest source of trash is food! 30% of the food we buy, we throw away. The easiest thing to do is to save those leftovers! Keeping them for a snack, freezing larger
Terri Bennett A veteran TV meteorologist, eco-expert and author of Do Your Part: A practical guide for everyday green living available at: DoYourPart.com. Send questions to terri@doyourpart.com

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CARNIVAL CHARLOTTE
Friday, February 9 Hilton Charlotte Center City Charlotte, NC Reservations: lawa@lawanc.org

2013

w w w. l a w a n c . o r g

The Importance of Cell Phone Insurance

market. However, you need to understand the difference between insurance and warranties. The difference between insurance and a warranty is that a warranty covers hardware issues and accidental damage. You usually have to purchase a warranty at the time you buy the phone. Warranties, such as AppleCare, do not cover loss or theft of a phone. Cell phone insurance is an insurance product, just like your home or auto insurance. It is regulated by insurance laws in each state. You pay a monthly fee for the insurance (typically between $5 and $7 for the basic insurance coverage). When you file a claim, you pay a deductible, typically $50 to $200, depending on the phone. With Asurion, for example, the iPhone deductible ranges from $169 to $199. When choosing cell phone insurance, look for:Warrantiesforreplacementdevices. Comprehensivecoveragethatcoversloss, theft and out-of-warranty damage (such as liquiddamage).Convenientclaimsfiling and rapid replacement service. No one ever really wants to need insurance, because that usually means something unfortunate has happened. But, just like insurance for your home or car, if something does happen to your cell phone, youll be glad to have a plan in place to quickly reconnect with family, friends and work. Learn more at www.asurion.com
www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

With so much of daily life connected to smart phones, the thought of being without one worries a lot of people. Unfortunately, loss, damage and theft do occur and more often than you might think. According to the Federal Communications Commission, 1 in 3 robberies nationwide involve cell phones. And, according to mobile phone insurance company Asurion, 36.5 percent of customers filing claims cited loss or theft as the reason for filing a claim. This number jumps to an alarming 54 percent for iPhone customers. Asurion also reported that across all mobile phones, 53 percent of claims involved damage. Breaking out just iPhones, 42 percent of customers filing claims do so for damage. Many people dont realize that replacing their lost, stolen or damaged phone will most likely cost more than what they paid up front. For example, an Asurion consumer survey showed that 43.5 percent of parents and 50.5 percent of students believe it costs less than $200 to replace a mobile phone. However, if your iPhone 4S or 5 is lost, stolen or damaged, you will be required to pay the full retail price of the mobile phone to replace it, not the discounted price you might have paid when signing up with the wireless provider or upgrading your phone. And that can be as much as $650. Insurance vs. Warranty There are several protection options in the

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Connect And Grow With Women In Our Community

Great Game Day Eats

No matter what the score is, give game day fans something to cheer about with great food, and plenty of it. These simple, delicious recipes from Johnsonville are easy for you to make, which means you can sit back and enjoy the game with everybody else. For more flavorful recipe ideas to make your game day party a winner, visit www. johnsonville.com

Italian Sausage Lollipops

Yield: 20 lollipops package (19 ounces) Johnsonville Hot Italian Sausage Links 20 10- to 12-inch bamboo skewers Oil for deep frying (vegetable, peanut or canola) Corn Batter 1 cup cornmeal 1 cup flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 cup sugar 4 teaspoons baking powder 1 large egg, lightly beaten 1 cup milk (preferably not skim) Remoulade Dipping Sauce 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon wine vinegar 2 tablespoons pickle relish 2 tablespoons capers, chopped 1 teaspoon dried tarragon 1

1/2 1/4 1

teaspoon ground black pepper teaspoon salt Dash Tabasco sauce cup canola oil

 ooksausagesaccordingtopackagedirections.Allowto C cool slightly and cut each sausage into 4 pieces. namediumbowl,mixalldryingredientsforthecorn I batter then mix in wet ingredients.  ouroil2to3inchesdeepandbringtomedium P heat or about 350F. Place one sausage piece on the end of each skewer. Dip into the batter and coat the sausage completely.  arefullysubmergethesausageintothehotoilwhile C holding the end of the stick. Fry each sausage for about 1 minute, until the batter is a deep golden brown.  ervewithRemouladeDippingSauceoryour S  favorite mustard.  emouladeDippingSauce R  ombineallingredientsexceptoilinafoodprocessor C and process for 30 seconds. With the motor running, slowly add the oil through the feed tube and process until thickened.  ransferthesaucetoabowl,coverandrefrigerateforat T least one hour before serving.

Easy Sausage Roll-ups

Yield: 14 servings 1 2 1/2 2 package (12 ounces) Johnsonville Breakfast Sausage Links containers (16 rolls) refrigerated crescent rolls teaspoon cinnamon tablespoons sugar Optional: Warm maple syrup, honey, jam and preserves

 reparesausageaccordingtopackagedirections. P Drain and set aside.  nrollcrescentrolldough.Placeonecookedsausage U on wide end of a dough triangle. Roll dough around sausage and place on baking pan with the seam side down. Repeat with remaining sausages and dough. (You will have two extra rolls to bake and enjoy with your favorite topping.)  ixcinnamonandsugartogetherandsprinkleevenly M over roll-ups.  akeaccordingtodirectionsoncrescentrollpackage. B   ervehot.Ifdesired,warmmaplesyrup,honey,jamsand S preserves for delicious dipping.

www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

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finance

By Diane Davis

Preparing for One of Retirements Major Expenses Taxes

s you plan for retirement, youre likely considering the major expenses you may encounter, such as housing and health care. But are you overlooking something that may have a significant impact on your ability to achieve a financially secure retirement?

to withdraw money from your accounts. You may have the ability to stretch your retirement dollars further if you can manage retirement distributions in a tax efficient way. Consider diversifying your savings into three different tax buckets:

 ax-deferredaccountsworkplace T savings programs (including 401(k) and 403(b) plans), traditional IRAs If the bulk of your retirement savings and annuities. are in tax-deferred accounts (workplace  ax-freeaccountsRothIRAs,cash T plans and traditional IRAs), most or all value life insurance, municipal bonds, of your distributions will be subject to ordinary income tax rates. This may leave if appropriate T you with less cash flow than you expect,  axableaccountssavingsandinvestments outside of tax-advantaged vewhich could impact your ability to meet hicles. The biggest challenge is often your day-to-day expenses. directing enough money into tax-free accounts such as Roth IRAs. Because A starting point there can be tax consequences in that Spread your savings out event, Roth conversion is not always a So how can you reduce the impact of viable option for investors to consider taxes on your retirement portfolio? Just so keep in mind that if you choose this as portfolio diversification is recognized process, the earlier you begin the better. as a good approach to investing, tax diversification can play an important role Also be aware that you are not able to deduct any contributions to a Roth, as in helping you potentially enhance your retirement savings when the time comes they are after tax dollars.
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Connect And Grow With Women In Our Community

In retirement Manage your distributions Efficiently managing distributions from your tax-deferred accounts is important because most distributions from 401(k) plans and traditional IRAs are subject to ordinary income tax rates, and will increase your taxable income. Investors with a tax-diversified portfolio, comprised of assets in taxable, tax-deferred and tax-free accounts, are often best positioned to manage cash flow during retirement.

For example, lets assume you expect to use your 401(k) plan to meet your annual income requirements. You will need to pull out more than what you need as annual income from your plan or tap your bank account to cover the taxes youll owe on this income. (The actual amount depends on your income tax rate.) If you didnt account for this in advance, your savings may be depleted more quickly than you planned. And depending upon where you are in the tax brackets, the actual amount you withdraw may push

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some of your income into a higher tax bracket, making it more important to manage your distributions.

ed it from a traditional retirement savings plan.)

Also keep in mind that theres a common If you have the ability to pull part of your assumption that your income tax rate necessary cash flow from a tax-free acin retirement will be lower than it was count, such as a Roth IRA, you may be during your working years. While that is able to reduce the amount of taxes you true for some retirees, it is not true for all. pay throughout your retirement, stretch Your individual retirement savings and out your qualified plan distributions and distribution strategy needs to be based still meet your income needs. (Rememon how you intend to spend your retireber of course that you did pay tax on the ment years, with the potential impact of money thats saved in your Roth account. taxes only being one piece of the puzzle. You simply paid it before you invested it Consider working with a financial advisor for retirement or at the time you convert- who can help you to plan for retirement and other long-term financial goals while keeping tax expenses in mind. Though your financial planner will not be able to give you direct tax advice, he or she will work with you and your tax advisor. By being proactive in the years when you are still accumulating wealth for retirement, you can achieve greater tax-diversification in your overall portfolio by the time retirement begins, giving you more flexibility with the money youve saved.
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Diane S. Davis, CFP, CLU is a Financial Advisor CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER practitioner, with Ameriprise FinancialServices, Inc. in Charlotte, NC. She specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 20 years. 2012 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. To contact 704-522-6565 5200 Park Road, Ste 117, Charlotte, NC 28209.

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Making An Impact
News about Awards, Events, Promotions and Business Meetings

Around Town
lotte -- it includes regional and state levels. We offer www.mbpw.org/scholarships-aphilanthropyscholarships, professional recognitions and conferences to provide opportunities for business and professional women. Since 1919, BPW/USA has been the voice of working women through legislative advocacy. A powerful network of members pursues the issues that matter most to working women. www.mbpw.org

Metropolitan BPW Donates Scholarship Money at UNC-Charlotte

Local Metropolitan Business Professional Women funds $1,000 scholarship at UNCCharlotte through their OASIS (Office of Adult Students & Evening Services) department. This years recipient, Elizabeth Hurtado-Escobar from Colombia, South America, is a transfer student majoring in Computer Engineering and will graduate in 2015. About MBPW: Metropolitan BPW has powerful members representing a variety of businesses and professions. Monthly HYPERLINK http://www.mbpw.org/monthly-meetinginformationmeetings focus on topics of interest to working women -- topics that promote both the personal and professional development of our members. Additional networking and learning opportunities are available at www.mbpw.org/mbpwoverview/26After Five events. Membership in Metropolitan BPW isnt just about Char-

Jules Moss, Hospital Administrator

North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital, has been named to the Alumnae/i Association Board of Mary Baldwin College, a private, independent and comprehensive four-year liberal arts womens college in Staunton, Virginia. In her leadership role at the college, she will

be involved in engaging alumnae, fundraising and supporting the colleges new development strategies. My involvement in the growth of the college and development of students did not end the day I graduated from Mary Baldwin College, said Moss. I have served on event committees in California, Alabama and North Carolina, and now have the opportunity to lend more assistance by contributing my marketing and fundraising experience as an alumnae/I Board member. Moss will serve a three-year term as a Board member, starting October, 2012. Prior to graduating from Mary Baldwin College, she graduated from The Donoho School in her hometown of Anniston, AL.

GREAT NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES!!! Metropolitan Business and Professional Women

3rd Wednesday of every month City Tavern South Park 11:30 am For more information and to register visit: www.mbpw.org

Charlotte Women with Know How Elite

4th Tuesday of every month Location Varies To find out more visit: www.womenwithknowhow.com

Send us your announcements that you would like to make or if you are an organization that focuses on business women send info to: mimi@womenwithknowhow.com (Deadline is the 15th of every month for upcoming issue)

www.womanwithknowhow.com JANUARY 2013

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Will your money last? With a retirement plan it can.

Having a plan and the right financial solutions can help you put a confident retirement within reach. As an Ameriprise financial advisor, Ill work with you to define your retirement dreams. Then, Ill apply our disciplined financial planning approach, considering all aspects of your finances. And together, well create a plan that works for you with the products and strategies that are right for your goals. Learn how you can put your confident retirement more within reach. Our Advisors. Your Dreams. MORE WITHIN REACH
Call me today at (704) 522.6565
Diane S. Davis, CFP, CLU Financial Advisor CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER practitioner 5200 Park Rd Ste 117 Charlotte, NC 28209 704-522-6565 diane.s.davis@ampf.com www.ameripriseadvisors.com/diane.s.davis

Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients. Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. 2012 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.