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Sports

Fencing Talk with Catherine Case Szarwark: Why Fencing Is Good For Everyone

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An avid fencer, Catherine Case Szarwark appreciates the sport for its precise balance between physical fitness and mental alertness. According to Catherine Case Szarwark, fencing is as much a mental challenge between two opponents as it is a physical competition. Another facet of fencing that Catherine Case Szarwark values is its gender equality. In the international sport of fencing, notes Catherine Case Szarwark, men and women compete equally. In fact, Catherine Case Szarwark finds fencing to be a particularly good sport for girls to take up, because they develop their natural physical coordination sooner than boys. In addition to physical coordination, Catherine Case Szarwark says that girls are also free from the cultural prejudice of a macho persona, which tends to distract boys from the finer mental points of the sport.

In fencing, says Catherine Case Szarwark, brute strength and speed alone cannot defeat mental clarity and coordination. Fencing is a precise sport, points out Catherine Case Szarwark, and subtlety can score just as well as strength. Though fencing is particularly popular in Europe, only a few schools in the United States teach fencing. This is one reason why Catherine Case Szarwark found it necessary to travel abroad to join international fencing competitions. According to Szarwark, European fencing societies host competitions more often than American fencing societies. Fencing clubs or private academies dominate the American fencing circuit with specialized instructors, and Catherine Case Szarwark notes that fencing in the United States is more prevalent at institutions of higher education.

While attending Harpeth Hall School in Nashville, Tennessee, Catherine Case Szarwark rose to the highest-ranking American epee fencer in the under-17 age category.  Her fencing for the American team took Catherine Case Szarwark to Italy and Germany, and Szarwark spent time at the United States Olympic training facility in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she trained alongside Olympic hopefuls from all over the United States.

In her senior year at Penn State University, Catherine Case Szarwark’s fencing team won the National Championship Tournament.

About Catherine Case Szarwark

For Catherine Case Szarwark, accomplishments came early in life. While friends were hoping to adapt to middle school, Catherine Case Szarwark found her passion. Szarwark started fencing in the sixth grade when a mini-fencing class was offered for physical education. She discovered that she loved it and possessed a rare talent.  Catherine Case Szarwark’s parents were supportive and her path to success began.

Catherine Case Szarwark spent six years at the Nashville Fencing Academy where she developed into one of the finest fencers in the country.  While attending Harpeth Hall School in Nashville, Tennessee, Catherine Case Szarwark rose to the highest-ranking American epee fencer in the under-17 age category.  Her fencing for the American team took Catherine Case Szarwark to Italy and Germany, and Szarwark spent time at the United States Olympic training facility in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she trained alongside Olympic hopefuls from all over the United States.

Upon graduation from high school, Catherine Case Szarwark elected to attend Penn State University where she fenced under the legendary Coach Emmanuil Kaidanov.  There, Szarwark compiled a record of 149 wins against only 35 losses, for an 81.0% winning percentage.  This remains the sixth-best in the storied history of fencing at Penn State University.  Catherine Case Szarwark earned all America honors three times, and was the captain of the Women’s Epee team in 2006-2007 when Penn State University won the NCAA National Championship. In speaking of this team, Coach Kaidanov singled out Catherine Case Szarwark for her leadership and dedication.

Catherine Case Szarwark also earned All Academic Big Ten honors, and finished with a 3.4 grade point average at Penn State University.  Szarwark now lives in New York City and has taught fencing at the New York Athletic Club. She works at NYU School of Medicine and is involved in Junior League of New York.

Health and Beauty

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise Interview: Fake Marijuana

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Zrylw.com recently sat down with several ANY LAB TEST NOW® franchise staff members to discuss the harms of what is becoming known as “fake weed.”  While it may be legal, the ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise staff we spoke with detailed the consequences of its use.

Zrylw.com: On behalf of our readers, thank you ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise staff for your time.

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: You’re welcome.  We are happy to do it.

Zrylw.com: This question is for either of you.  What is fake weed?

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: It is basically a substance – an herbal incense product, really – that looks like and mimics the effects of marijuana. Often it has been found in tobacco shops and while there are disclaimers of its harmful effects on the package, people are still using it.

Zrylw.com: But it is legal?

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: Well, it’s not really “legal” anymore. The DEA recently banned five of the most common psychoactive chemical compounds found in the herbal incense product that is marketed under the trade names K2, Spice, Serenity, Black Mamba and a variety of others. And many states are going through the motions to ban it statewide.

Zrylw.com: Where did it come from?

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: The short form of the story is that it was originally created to test how THC binds itself to the brain.  The creator of the chemical said that it was never intended for human consumption, however.

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: In fact, its creator Dr. Huffman has said there is no real way of knowing how long this substance will stay in the human body or what the long term effects could be.

Zrylw.com: Can you explain more?

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: The herbal incense is plant-based; however, it is coated with harmful chemicals that have led to its improper use.  The chemicals are the “drugs”.  The two most common synthetic cannabinoid compounds found in these products are JWH018 and JWH073.  Although these chemicals react with the same THC receptors in the brain as natural marijuana, they actually pose some opposing symptoms.  In fact, these chemical compounds do not show up in a regular drug test where THC is supposed to be detected.  A special drug test for synthetic cannabinoids must be ordered.

Zrylw.com: How is it used?

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: These psychoactive chemical compounds we have been discussing are sprayed onto organic plant matter to give it an appearance of marijuana. From there it is typically rolled into joints and smoked, though there are other ways of consumption.

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: And then people assume that it is no big deal, just a variation of pot…

Zrylw.com: But I am sensing that is not correct.

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: Absolutely.  The American Association of Poison Control Centers reported almost 2000 calls from people concerning frightening and negative consequences of the chemical.  And the DEA Diversion Control Program listed Spice as a “chemical of concern.”

Zrylw.com: Does the traditional marijuana test pick up the use of Spice?

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: No.  However, at all the ANY LAB TEST NOW franchises, a drug panel test can be administered to detect it.

Zrylw.com: That’s good news.  Obviously some grave concerns about this chemical.

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: Very grave concerns and parents needs to know about this and its potential harmful side effects many of which are not known.  We do know it is dangerous.

Zrylw.com: Thank you both for a very informative discussion that enlightens all parents and consumers.

ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise: Thank you for talking with the both of us.

Your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise can help you take control of your health.

For more information, visit them online at http://www.anylabtestnow.com

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About ANY LAB TEST NOW Franchise

Named the second fastest growing franchise in America by the Franchise Times in April 2010, the ANY LAB TEST NOW® franchise network offers medical, drug and alcohol, DNA and other lab testing solutions to local communities.  With 133 locations nationwide, your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise provides thousands of lab tests, allowing individuals to take control of their health.  Supporting individuals, physicians, local employers, attorneys, health and fitness centers, government agencies and many other types of businesses, your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise offers a diverse selection of direct diagnostic tools. As the founder of ANY LAB TEST NOW often states, “The ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise organization was created to give consumers and businesses direct, affordable access to powerful diagnostic tools.”

Established by David Perlow, M.D., ANY LAB TEST NOW began making medical laboratory testing available to the general public in 1992.  Soon thereafter, the ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise model was revealed, bringing these same unique ideas to communities all across America.  Based in Alpharetta, Georgia and founded on the basis of empowerment of individuals and excellence, every ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise employs only certified, courteous and understanding professionals.  The team at every ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise also understands the potential anxiety that may come with medical or social testing and assures its customers that each ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise is HIPAA (privacy) and state law compliant.

The presence of an ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise empowers a local community through thousands of medical tests as well as drug and alcohol testing, forensic DNA and toxicology, as well as occupational exposure testing.  In addition to other numerous tests, each ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise offers legally admissible DNA testing and background searches.  Every day, your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise assists companies of all sizes in assessing candidates and employees, especially in safety-sensitive positions, while proactively supporting corporate wellness that improves overall company morale and productivity..

If preventable healthcare is your concern, your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise also offers health and  wellness programs.  By offering monthly promotions and becoming involved in health and wellness events, your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise assists in the promotion of healthy living.  With basic health monitoring check ups, the professionals at your ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise screens for several components including complete blood count, urinalysis and blood pressure check.  This panel of testing is valuable in enabling an individual to take control of their personal health.  Your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise also screens for events that may impact heart health, such as cholesterol; and monitors glucose levels  for diabetes.  Each ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise also offers hormone testing for thyroid, testosterone, menopause and numerous other valuable screenings.

In addition to being affordable, your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise ensures  the correct specimens are collected in the appropriate manner, depending on the tests you choose.  An appointment is not needed to see a certified medical assistant at your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise.  No insurance?  No problem! With convenient hours six days a week, your local ANY LAB TEST NOW franchise offers you complete discretion and confidentiality. ANY LAB TEST NOW places the power of health care and lab testing in your hands.

Health and Beauty

Dr. Jerry M. Foster Lends His Perspective to the Doctrine of Simplicity

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Modern society places a premium on urgency and business, says Dr. Jerry M. Foster, but these concerns are often a detriment to overall health and well being. The stress that comes from a crowded and complex life, says Dr. Jerry M. Foster, can have a significant affect on personal health. For this reason, Dr. Jerry M. Foster encourages readers to step back from time to time and evaluate the pace of their lives.

While agreeing that being productive is a desirable aspiration, Dr. Jerry M. Foster notes that a busy life can frequently get out of balance. Many people are constantly in a hurry, says Dr. Jerry M. Foster, eating meals on the run and rushing from one commitment to the next. Thought this may at the time seem expeditious, points out Dr. Jerry M. Foster, it can backfire in the long run. In fact, Dr. Jerry M. Foster reports that an overly hurried and stressed lifestyle can have very direct bad affects on an individual’s health.

Dr. Jerry M. Foster’s advice to readers is that all people need time to contemplate and ponder their lives in an unhurried manner. Without pausing to assess the aim and quality of life, says Dr. Jerry M. Foster, we can easily slip into the trap of “racing toward oblivion.” In fact, we may get so caught up in working towards perfection, says Dr. Jerry M. Foster, that we forget that most of the joy is in the journey, not the destination.

Look for ways to make your busy life a bit simpler, encourages Dr. Jerry M. Foster. A philosophy of simplicity in life can actually uncover freedoms we may have forgotten about due to our harried modern schedules. Taking time to ponder one’s life and goals, concludes Dr. Jerry M. Foster, increases one’s self-knowledge and puts every individual on a more sure social, emotional, and intellectual footing with his or her fellow human beings.

Dr. Jerry M. Foster is Board Certified in Medical Oncology and Internal Medicine. Dr. Jerry M. Foster completed his formal academic studies at distinguished universities in North Carolina, Tennessee, and England. After rigorous medical training and an oncology residency, Dr. Jerry M. Foster chose to pour his talents into his middle Tennessee community. Dr. Jerry M. Foster’s vocation is tempered by his Christian ethos, dedicated to the betterment of humanity. Dr. Jerry M. Foster gives his time freely to volunteer endeavors like Samaritan’s Purse and the Room at the Inn Homeless Ministry, as well as medical relief trips abroad to help the needy children of Haiti. Dr. Jerry M. Foster values family above all else, and lives happily with his wife Patty and two daughters near Nashville, Tennessee.

Health and Beauty

Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD Offers Insight into Civil War Diseases

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According to Dr. Jerry Michael Foster MD some 620,000 soldiers died during the four-year Civil War conflict. The North lost 360,000 souls while the South gave up 260,000. However, says Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD, not all the deaths were caused by injuries sustained in battle. Nearly one-half of the deaths during the Civil War were caused by disease and infections. Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD lists several types of these ailments. These include typhoid fever, dysentery, diarrhea and infection from Staphylococcus Aureus and Streptococcus Pyogenes. Dr. Foster says most of the diseases were brought about by very poor camp conditions and that filth encouraged these types of diseases to grow and decimate whole units.

Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD suggests that perhaps one of the biggest killers was Typhoid. He says that although Typhoid is nearly non-existent in the modern Western world, it was a rampant killer during the 19th century. No one, insists Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD, was safe from the crippling and often fatal effects from Typhoid. Typhoid was spread by salmonella that was present in contaminated food and water. Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD has found that a significant number of non-combatant deaths on the Confederate side were caused by this terrible disease. The only treatment for Typhoid Fever at the time was rest and fresh food and water that was often in short supply, according to Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD.

British researchers have proven that Typhoid is a water-borne disease. Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD maintains that most physicians from the Civil War did not appreciate this link. . So Typhoid, says Dr. Foster, manifested itself in the young, old, rich, poor, officer or enlisted. Dr. Jerry Michael Foster MD points out that the disease practiced a non-discriminatory approach. He says that the worse part of having a patient with Typhoid at that time was the feeling of helplessness as physicians watched their patients die in droves.

About Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD

Dr. Jerry Michael Foster MD is a Tennessee Board Certified physician in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology. In 1971, North Carolina State University conferred a degree for undergraduate work to Dr. Foster. The completion of Dr. Jerry Michael Foster MD’s doctoral program was at Duke University Medical School and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Jerry Michael Foster, MD is married to wife Patty and is a long time enthusiast of United States History and collecting Civil War memorabilia.

Health and Beauty

An Interview with Tom Raffy, Founder and President of GAR Labs

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GAR Labs is a high-end Private Label Cosmetic Contract Packager, that has tenured formulas for Skin Creams, Hair Treatments and 100’s of toiletry items, as well as beauty and health aids. Tom Raffy is Founder and President of GAR Labs.  Recently, Raffy talked with Zrylw.com about his passion and belief concerning GAR Labs.

Zrylw.com: Tom, thank you for sharing your passion about GAR Labs with our readers today. You recently said, and I quote, “GAR Labs is a smart choice.”  Knowing your passion for the company you founded, what exactly did you mean by that?

Tom Raffy/GAR Labs: Well, thank you for the opportunity to unpack what I meant when I described GAR Labs as a “smart choice”.  In a nutshell, I think GAR Labs is a smart choice on two levels.  The first being our capabilities as a high end private label cosmetics manufacturer that can quickly turn your hair or skin care idea into a finished product that can be sold nationally.

Zrylw.com: GAR Labs has a lot of options to offer clients?

Tom Raffy/GAR Labs: We have tons to offer.  From our on-site chemists at GAR Labs that work in a large full-service laboratory to our extensive manufacturing and filling departments that are the envy of competition, we offer clients unlimited possibilities.

Zrylw.com: Tom, can you briefly lay out the process when a new client brings a product to GAR Labs?

Tom Raffy/GAR Labs: Well first, we have thousands of fragrances and thousands of skin and hair prototypes on file.  So a client of GAR Labs can quickly make additions to their new product idea.  From there, GAR Labs is going to hit the laboratory where we can formulate and create test samples, at no costs.  With production at GAR Labs clients are guaranteed, through our physical and electronic analysis, 100% ‘on-spec’ ingredients, no “look a likes”.  Also, this helps the client know that during production, their ingredients are in compliance.  After production, GAR Labs will run a series of tests to ensure that the color and the thickness is compliant with the customers standard and at the correct pH for the skin, and lastly that the product is bacterial free BEFORE being filled.

Zrylw.com: Then after production comes packaging…

Tom Raffy/GAR Labs: That is correct.  At GAR Labs, we have machines that feed thousands of tubes in a minute, and seal the packaging at hundreds a minute.  From there we palletize, triple stretch-wrap and ready for pick-up by the client.

Zrylw.com: And how do you calculate pricing?

Tom Raffy/GAR Labs: Our pricing is handled by a computerized system that is fair and quick – offering our clients a low, no haggle needed price.  And I would mention now the second reason we are a smart choice.  We are going through this whole process using green energy as much as possible.  We just spent three years converting much of our 133,000 square foot factory to renewable energies, thereby decreasing our carbon footprint.

Zrylw.com: Wow, absolutely amazing.  Tom, we know you are busy with this wonderful company.  Thank you for sharing with us your passion about GAR Labs.

Tom Raffy/GAR Labs: Thank you.  Twenty-seven years old and still going!

For more information about GAR Labs, visit them online at www.garlabs.com

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About GAR Labs

Founded in 1982, GAR Labs has grown and now operates from a 133,000 square foot headquarters located in Riverside, California.  The GAR Labs facility meets or exceeds all health, safety, EPA and FDA standards and requirements, and is licensed for both alcohol filling and storage.  Using only purified water, GAR Labs can serve a capacity ranging from 55 gallons to 12,000 gallons per shift.

From 5,000 to 5 million pieces, GAR Labs can develop the formulation, fill and package your product.   GAR Labs is licensed and staffed to all personal care products which include sunscreens, face cream, body creams, hair care, body soaps, perfumes and alcohol related products.  In addition, GAR Labs is an FDA registered over-the-counter drug (OTC) products.

GAR Labs employs its own in-house chemists that work in a full-service laboratory and can quickly make test samples of the products you want.  Along with the development laboratory, GAR Labs offers clients peace-of-mind by having a fully equipped quality control-testing department.

GAR Labs works to ensure that ALL the ingredients AND the finished products are compliant by using three testing divisions:

  • “Analytical Testing Lab” verifies the chemical finger print of each ingredient to guarantee compliance through Infrared Spectrometer (IR) and High Pressure Liquid Chromatograph (HPLC).
  • “Quality Control Department” ensures all finished products meet customer specification.
  • “Microbiological Testing Department” insures all ingredients and finished products are bacteria free.

As you can see with GAR Labs, ALL raw materials AND finished products are fully tested for both quality and compliance so that you can trust what you are selling and it will last a long time.

When it comes to processing your order the team at GAR Labs is committed to offering the best in project management.  Upon receiving a client purchase order, customer service reps have the ability to track the project’s progression.  Using a state-of-the-art computer system, GAR Labs customer service personnel enter your purchase order and then track the progress of the work and email their status every week until your order is complete.

Even after completion, GAR Labs can help you with the technical documents that might be needed to sell your product domestically or by exporting.

GAR Labs has received rave reviews from their customer base.  One such customer wrote that GAR Labs are “easy to work with” and “reasonably priced.”

For more information, visit GAR Labs online at www.garlabs.com or call them at 951-788-0700.

Finance

Richard Siskey Discusses Angel Investing for Beginners

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“There are many principles to understand, but actually angel investing is not as difficult as some may think,” states Richard Siskey. Siskey would know. After spending many years in the financial markets, Richard Siskey founded Wall Street Capitol and Siskey Industries, LLC.  Thirty-plus years of experience under gird Siskey’s words of wisdom concerning angel investing.

“Many times, persons new to angel investing think that getting all the terms of the deal right is the most important aspect,” says Richard Siskey.  While that may be extremely important, investing in the “right start-ups, particularly when new to this form of capital investment,” is vital, explains Siskey.  “An angel investor can have every ‘t’ crossed and ‘i’ dotted, but if it is not the right start-up to invest in, it won’t matter in the end,” explains Richard Siskey.  A good term on a bad investment, maintains Richard Siskey, is still a bad investment.

“Through the years I have seen many people become angel investors in different ways,” reports Richard Siskey.  One way is to join a group of angel investors or a syndicate, says Siskey.  “Find a friend or a trusted colleague who participates in this form of capital investing and attempt to join his or her group or syndicate,” adds Richard Siskey.  Whether it is an official angel investing syndicate or a group put together for a one-time deal, Richard Siskey states that a new angel investor will learn.  “This strategy will allow the new investor to ‘write a check’, watch the process, and maybe receive some mentoring from other members of the syndicate,” explains Siskey.

If a new angel investor decides not to join a syndicate and to “maverick the process”, Richard Siskey suggests two things.  “Watch one episode of the TV show Shark Tank and note that each investor is concerned about two numbers,” says Richard Siskey.  Explaining his Shark Tank comment, Richard Siskey says that the investors on the show demonstrate a major point concerning numbers in angel investing.  “They always note that per the request for capital, the company should then be worth ‘x’ thousands or millions,” Richard Siskey explains, “and they will ask about sales, assets and so-on concerning the company.”  In other words, angel investors new to the concept need to be focused on two numbers:  the amount they are investing versus the valuation of the company.

“There are a lot of great tools online and books that can be read by those new to angel investing,” states Richard Siskey.  And while an angel investor will make some mistakes and perhaps lose some money, “they want to minimize the losses, especially in the early days of their new investing strategy,” states Richard Siskey. “Always have a lawyer review every document you draw up in any agreement,” concludes Richard Siskey.

Richard Siskey is an angel investor and the Chairman of Siskey Industries, LLC. For more information, contact Richard Siskey at rsiskey@siskeyindustries.com.

About Richard Siskey

Over a span of thirty years, Richard C. Siskey (Rick Siskey) has become known as a premier investor and advisor to numerous entrepreneurs and businesses.  Possessing what the Greater Charlotte Biz magazine dubbed, “an uncanny ability to discern situations in advance,” Richard Siskey knows what it takes to start, build, finance and sell businesses.

Motivated by raw challenge and competition, Richard Siskey founded Wall Street Capitol.  After spending years in the financial markets, Richard Siskey developed moves and strategies that were a proven success.  In establishing Wall Street Capitol, Siskey envisioned a company that would service all the financial needs expected by high networth clientele.  Today, with a phenomenal talent and skill set under one roof, Wall Street Capitol performs at a level not easily matched for entrepreneurs and individuals of financial means.

Richard Siskey is the Chairman of Siskey Industries, LLC.  Siskey Industries offers traditional and alternative sources of capital funding, strategic advisory solutions and alternative investment opportunities.  As Chairman of Siskey Industries, Richard Siskey joins his expertise to a network of industry professionals in the arena of private equity investing.

Known for his integrity, Richard Siskey has built his businesses based upon that value.  In a recent article one of Siskey’s clients commented, “Integrity, without question, has to be number one in financial services. I have personally seen his integrity moved from words to action.”

In 2000, Richard Siskey moved Wall Street Capitol to a specially designed 75,000 square foot office building located on prime real estate in the SouthPark area of Charlotte, North Carolina.  With the professional touch often related to Siskey, these offices have become the infrastructure for expansion.  Today Richard Siskey, Wall Street Capitol and Siskey Industries serve a diverse base of clients both regionally and nationwide.

Richard Siskey believes that community and family are to be valued above business.  He has supported and actively given to Queens College, Catholic Social Services and numerous charities that include the United Way.  In a long list of opportunities, Siskey points to one that has nothing to do with money or business:  the YMCA.  In 1995, Richard Siskey’s civic contributions and support of the YMCA organization were honored with the naming of The Siskey Family YMCA, a recognition for which he remains very grateful.

Richard Siskey completed his Masters of Business Administration at the Queens University of Charlotte.  Deeply grateful to have earned his graduate degree from the prestigious McColl School of Business, Siskey has lectured throughout the country on a number of fiscally oriented topics. Richard Siskey is also past member of the National Speakers Association, in good standing.

Richard Siskey has been a resident of Charlotte, North Carolina for over twenty-six years.  He is married to Diane and they have two adult children.

Health and Beauty

Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS Returns From Trip to Haiti

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Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS has been friends with his gregarious alligator mascot Chomp for many years. In that time, Chomp and the Hermitage Pediatric Dentist have been on some fantastic adventures together. Chomp says that adventures with Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS are a ton of fun, but they can also be very meaningful. For example, the Hermitage Pediatric Dentist has been making excursions to Haiti since 2007, offering charitable dental services to those in need. Following the terrible 2010 earthquake that devastated Port-au-Prince, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS and the Hermitage Pediatric Dentist’s team of dental care staff members traveled to Ouanaminthe in Haiti to help care for the injured and orphaned. Upon the Hermitage Pediatric Dentist’s return to Tennessee, Chomp had the opportunity to interview him about the experience.

Chomp: During your latest mission to Haiti, here did you expend most of your relief efforts?

Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS: We spent most of our time in the dental clinic we set up at Danita’s Children, Hope for Haiti Center.

Chomp: Tell us more about Danita’s Children.

Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS: Danita’s Children is a non-profit committed to caring for Haiti’s orphaned and abandoned children. After the devastation of the earthquake, Danita’s Children was filling up with children rescued from the damages, who had lost their homes and families.

Chomp: How did you develop your connection to Danita’s Children?

Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS: HMy adopted daughter, Margarite, was rescued and cared for by the wonderful and dedicated missionaries who operate Danita’s Children. Without Danita’s Children, we never would have been blessed with Margarite.

Chomp: What did you and your team do while in Haiti?

Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS: We performed routine and essential dental procedures for over 300 local Haitians in pain. Some of them were orphans, but many others were folks who attended Danita’s church and school, as well as those who work for Danita.

Chomp: What were some of these services?

Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS: You name it, whatever people needed. In some cases, it was extractions, fillings or the application of sealants. Other people needed crowns or cleanings.

Chomp: It sounds like you and your team was very busy.

Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS: I only wish we could have done more, but our time was limited.

Chomp: What can others do to aid in the Haiti relief effort?

Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS: Every little bit helps. If you have the time, contact UNICEF or the Red Cross and offer your help. If you cannot travel to Haiti to help, make donations. The infrastructure is so damaged that there is still a lot of work to do.

Chomp: Thank you so much for taking time to discuss your trip, Dr. Snodgrass. I’m sure your tireless efforts do not go unnoticed.

Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS: Thanks, Chomp. It’s good to be home, but the fact remains that we will be returning to Haiti again to continue our work.

For more information about the efforts of Hermitage Pediatric Dentist Dr. David Snodgrass DDS, visit Snodgrass-King online at http://snodgrassking.com

About Hermitage Pediatric Dentist

The Hermitage pediatric dentists of Snodgrass-King offer an exceptional and different dental experience for children. Founded by Dr. David Snodgrass and Dr. John T. King, the Hermitage pediatric dentist offices of Snodgrass-King combine “fun” with exceptional oral health care and services. In addition to their office located in Hermitage, Snodgrass-King offers pediatric dentist services in several other convenient locations around Nashville.

A first time visitor to Hermitage or any of the Snodgrass-King pediatric dentist offices may find a surprise awaiting them. On any given day a child may be greeted by Chomp, the Snodgrass-King alligator mascot, in the Hermitage lobby before they see their pediatric dentist. And if Chomp is not in the Hermitage office, there are other surprises before seeing their chosen pediatric dentist. From the video games in the lobby to watching a movie during a teeth cleaning, the Hermitage pediatric dentist office maintains the tradition of “fun” that comes with a visit to any Snodgrass-King office.

While a youngster wants fun, parents desire excellence in dental care for their child. The Snodgrass-King Hermitage pediatric dentist office meets and exceeds that expectation. Both of the founders of Snodgrass-King bring credentials and experience to their Hermitage pediatric patients. Dr. David Snodgrass, a respected and sought after speaker, brings over twenty years of experience to the Hermitage community. Dr. John T. King is Diplomat Board Certification with the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Between the founders and staff, the Hermitage pediatric dentist offices of Snodgrass-King offer nearly one hundred years of combined experience.

The highly skilled Hermitage pediatric dentists offer a wide array of specialty services to their young patients. From basic pediatric dentist services to orthodontic and specialty work, Snodgrass-King of Hermitage boasts exceptional pediatric dentists. Patients needing oral and maxillofacial specialty work can find such services at the Snodgrass-King Hermitage pediatric dentist office. The Hermitage pediatric dentist office of Snodgrass-King also offers tips and points concerning pediatric dental care online. The Snodgrass-King website displays safety and general health care tips as well as information about “what to expect” when visiting the Hermitage pediatric dentist office. Patients will also find contact information and hours of operation for the Snodgrass-King Hermitage pediatric dentist location.

Known for their work both within and outside of Hermitage, the pediatric dentists of Snodgrass-King have donated equipment and time to those who could not receive such quality care. Recently, co-founder of the Hermitage pediatric dentist office Dr. David Snodgrass was part of an effort to offer dental care to Nashville residents who otherwise would have gone without. In addition, the Snodgrass-King founders and pediatric dentists from Hermitage and other locations have donated equipment and frequently served the impoverished regions of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

For more information or to contact the Hermitage pediatric dentists of Snodgrass-King please visit http://snodgrassking.com.

Finance

Instant Tax Solutions: Back Tax Relief, Part One

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According to the professionals at Instant Tax Solutions, “the IRS is becoming more cooperative than ever.” The reason for this increased willingness for compromise, according to Instant Tax Solutions, is the current economy. Instant Tax Solutions is a forty-person team of tax professionals that assist individuals with tax relief. Co-founded by Byron Pedersen and Ian Woodman, Instant Tax Solutions has a client list that spans the entire nation.

“While it is important for an individual owing back taxes to consult legal representation, there are basically two categories of programs for handling back taxes,” explains Instant Tax Solutions’ Byron Pedersen. The first category of programs, according to the Instant Tax Solutions co-founder, is to enter into an agreement settling the amount of back tax for less than owed. “If for some reason the tax debt cannot be reduced, a taxpayer can apply for special consideration,” explains Instant Tax Solutions’ Pedersen.

In this article, using the Instant Tax Solutions website as a resource, we will briefly examine the three options available if the Internal Revenue Service agrees to settle back taxes for less than what is owed. The first option, according the Instant Tax Solutions website, is the Offer in Compromise. “While this is the most popular option among taxpayers, it is also the most difficult for which to qualify,” notes Instant Tax Solutions. The OIC gives the IRS authorization to reduce the amount owed, including penalties and fees, according to Instant Tax Solutions. “The burden falls on the taxpayer applying for this option to prove that the amount owed would force them into financial hardship,” says Instant Tax Solutions, “and that it probably would never be paid in full.”

According to the Instant Tax Solutions website, the second option under the program of a settlement reduction is penalty abatement. The Instant Tax Solutions online resource explains that penalty abatement is the elimination or reduction of fees and penalties imposed by the IRS. However, according to Instant Tax Solutions, reasonable cause for failure to follow tax laws must be stated. Instant Tax Solutions further explains that some of those reasons include death or serious illness, unavoidable absence by taxpayer, or inability to determine tax amount for reasons beyond taxpayer control.

The third option under the program of settling back taxes with the IRS for less than what is owed, says Instant Tax Solutions, is a Partial Payment Installment Agreement (PPIA). According to the Instant Tax Solutions website, a PPIA is a reduction of total tax liability broken down into a monthly payment plan. In order to qualify, the taxpayer has to demonstrate that they are financially unable to pay the minimum monthly payment of the tax debt, explains Instant Tax Solutions. A negotiated agreement may be reached, for a lesser amount, allowing the taxpayer to pay their tax liability over a monthly payment plan.

Whatever the situation may be, a taxpayer owing back taxes needs proper representation, maintains Instant Tax Solutions co-founder Byron Pedersen. “Qualified representation, like that provided by the professionals at Instant Tax Solutions, knows the ‘in and outs’ of the IRS and can negotiate the best option for the taxpayer,” states Pedersen.

Instant Tax Solutions was birthed out of a vision to join expert tax relief services with an absolute commitment to integrity. With genuine concern for clients and a combined tax relief experience of over one hundred years, the professional and highly educated staff continues to remain current with tax changes. For more information about the assistance offered by Instant Tax Solutions, visit them online at http://InstantTaxSolutions.com.

Click here to read Part 2 of Instant Tax Solutions: Back Tax Relief

Travel

Carlotta Luis Discusses How to Keep Travel Fun and Affordable

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Carlotta Luis is a Travel Industry Professional who has helped countlesstravelers find the perfect vacation getaway. Carlotta Luis connects potentialtravelers with some of the best Travel Agents in the business. The key to atruly satisfying vacation is knowing what your vacation goals are, setting yourpreferences, proper planning and sticking to your budget, says Carlotta Luis.The average US Leisure Traveler is on the hunt for the lowest price with thebest quality. Travelers are typically going on vacation more than they did lastyear but they are definitely trying to spend less, reports Carlotta Luis.

True all-inclusive resorts and cruises are very popular for thefamily, individual, or group that is watching their dollars. However, thebudget-minded traveler shouldn’t discard hotels and resorts that offer aEuropean plan. There are a lot of deals to be had in that category as well. Oneimportant thing to keep in mind, points out Carlotta Luis, is that visiting anew destination is all about experiencing the culture and exploring. Accordingto Carlotta Luis, that means enjoying the natural splendor, local cuisine, music& entertainment, art & crafts, and learning about the history of the peopleand places you’re visiting.

Carlotta Luis loves to help her clients find a satisfying vacationin the right price range. Most travelers these days, notes Carlotta Luis, aretraveling on a budget but they must keep in mind that cheaper doesn’t necessarilymean better. Carlotta Luis says that spending a little more could mean betterquality accommodations, transportation, activities, or meals. Carlotta Luis explainsthat if your goal is to stay at a beautiful resort with good customer servicethen that’s what you should aim for. Always consult review sites to learn whattravelers and industry professionals are saying before you make a decision.Carlotta Luis reminds vacationers that the ultimate vacation goal is to behappy, stress-free and delighted.

Carlotta Luis notes that when it comes to activities such as waterand resort sports, spa treatments, dancing events and guided tours, theseactivities often require additional spending, and the shrewd traveler knows howto minimize this extra expenditure. An excellent way to save money, saysCarlotta Luis, is to decide upon a limited number of activities on your trip.If planning more than one or two activities, Carlotta Luis suggests that if it’spossible, travelers should try to join in with group activities, like scubadiving lessons or a group tour. Group tours and activities includetransportation to and from the fun, adds Carlotta Luis, as well as a lower costto participate.

Carlotta Luis also points out that most expenses related to travelcost more for a single traveler. Buying bulk travel is often cheaper, notesCarlotta Luis, just as in other areas of the marketplace. In other words,having a “travel buddy” will often qualify you for cheaper lodging or fares,explains Carlotta Luis. At many Caribbean resorts and island cruises, thesingle occupancy rate is often higher per person than the double or groupoccupancy rate. These are just a few of Carlotta Luis’ tips and techniques onkeeping travel to the Caribbean, US Virgin Islands and beyond fun andaffordable. If you are planning vacation travel, contact Carlotta Luis at (305)741-2013 and take advantage of her travel expertise.

About Carlotta Luis

When Carlotta Luis was completing her education she had not yet set her sights towards being a travel industry professional. For Carlotta Luis, graduating was the goal. Her life, it turns out, has become more than she could have imagined.

As Carlotta Luis began moving into the work place she began to slowly define a career direction. For Carlotta Luis, this would eventually carry her to an enviable position. People now refer to her as a travel industry professional, a savvy market research resource, a skilled employee trainer and voice for innovative change. These are not titles that Carlotta Luis had originally seen herself owning.

Initial humanitarian interests took Carlotta Luis first to St. Damien Pediatric Hospital in Haiti. St. Damien’s Hospital had 120 beds, including an 18 bed emergency unit, 10 bed pediatric intensive care unit and a 9 bed cancer center. The hospital was staffed with 18 pediatricians, 50 nurses and 60 certified nursing assistants, as well as 8 lab technicians. This was Carlotta Luis’ introduction into the health care and medical communities.

According to Carlotta Luis, more than half of all the hospital’s patients were admitted for an infectious disease such as tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV while twenty-five percent were admitted for non-infectious diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and kidney infection. Most patients admitted were also malnourished. This experience and the exposure to a very different life fueled what would become a passion for Carlotta Luis – an interest in different cultures. This interest continued to develop and Carlotta Luis began to sense a focus on the Caribbean countries.

Fast forwarding to the present, Carlotta Luis’ career track now places her as a sales professional promoting the U.S. Virgin Islands throughout the southeastern regions of the United States. She is employed by the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism and resides in south Florida. Carlotta Luis serves as a board member of the Caribbean Tourism Organization through its South Florida Chapter. She pursues excellence in her vocation, passion for her profession and vision for tourism throughout the Caribbean basin. These days, Carlotta Luis embraces the age old wisdom given by many in her line of work: Don’t worry, be happy!

Home and Family, Professional Profiles

Dave Ramsey supports Nancy Alcorn and Mercy Ministries – Nancy Alcorn and Dave Ramsey both in the business of transforming lives.

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Nancy Alcorn and Dave Ramsey have been friends for a long-time.  They share the love of helping people find freedom from bondage – bondage to money and debt or bondage to life-controlling issues.  Here are some highlights of the partnership between Dave Ramsey and Nancy Alcorn:

As long-time supporters of Mercy Ministries and Nancy Alcorn, Dave and his wife, Sharon, have generously donated their expertise and resources to our residents and graduates. The girls learn how to balance a checkbook, make a budget, save, eliminate debt, find bargains, build wealth and experience the joy of giving.   Nancy Alcorn is committed to building Mercy Ministries homes debt free and Nancy Alcorn also believes that operating debt free is key – a tone that resonates with Dave Ramsey and his teachings. Upon graduation, each resident is blessed with a Financial Peace University Lifetime Membership kit and receives all course materials. Graduates (along with their spouses if they are married) can also attend a FPU class in their area!

In 2009, Nancy Alcorn, Founder and President of Mercy Ministries, considered it a great privilege to be invited by her dear friend, Dave Ramsey, to speak to his nearly 300 staff during their weekly devotional time. Dave and Sharon Ramsey have been long-time supporters of Mercy Ministries and Nancy Alcorn, and Dave has had Nancy Alcorn lead devotions several times for his staff. Dave dedicates time each Wednesday morning for his staff to have an opportunity to begin their day in prayer and Bible study. Nancy Alcorn used this time to encourage his team that they are making a difference by helping people. Nancy Alcorn shared the stories of several Mercy girls and emphasized that each of them had to let go of the past in order to experience lasting change. Nancy Alcorn explained how Mercy Ministries and Dave Ramsey’s Lampo Group are similar because they teach people that their past does not have to determine their future.

Here is what Nancy Alcorn had to say about her time with Dave’s incredible team:

“I count it a great honor to call Dave and Sharon Ramsey my friends, and I was even more proud of them today as I saw the impact they are having on so many people in this country and beyond. Times are tough and Dave’s team continues to extend great wisdom to people about budgeting, planning and living debt free. I loved connecting with the truly wonderful people in this organization.”  – Nancy Alcorn
In October 2010, Dave and Sharon Ramsey hosted Nancy Alcorn and 100 guests of the ministry at their home in Franklin, TN.  Guests were blessed to hear Founder and President of Mercy Ministries, Nancy Alcorn, cast the vision of Mercy and encourage everyone to attend the Merry Mercy benefit coming up in December.  Here’s what Dave Ramsey had to say about his support of Nancy Alcorn and Mercy Ministries:

“Since the business and the ministry that we’re in is that of transforming lives, we want to see a broken and hopeless life completely transformed. There are a few ministries that do that very well and there are none that do it better than Mercy with Nancy Alcorn at the helm. I don’t know how much more of a personal endorsement I could give something, but after meeting Nancy Alcorn, Mercy became the first ministry we’ve ever given to, and it’s one of the few today that we still have on our list of ministries that we give to lavishly.” – Dave Ramsey

In December 2010, Dave and Sharon Ramsey hosted the Merry Mercy event at the Loews Vanderbilt plaza along with Nancy Alcorn and with musical guest Phil Keaggy!  The night was a great fundraiser for Mercy Ministries with both Dave Ramsey and Nancy Alcorn encouraging the crowd to get involved with transforming lives!

Nancy Alcorn and Mercy Ministries would like to thank the Ramsey’s for their overwhelming generosity and huge hearts! Their investment of time, expertise, materials, and financial resources into the graduates and staff of Mercy Ministries as well as Nancy Alcorn herself has literally been life-transforming for all involved! To learn more about Dave Ramsey and Financial Peace University, visit his website at www.daveramsey.com.

To learn more about Nancy Alcorn, visit www.nancyalcorn.com and order a copy of the book, “Echoes of Mercy” by Nancy Alcorn.

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About Nancy Alcorn

During her five years working for the state of Tennessee, at a correctional facility for juvenile delinquent girls, Nancy Alcorn developed a passion to impact the lives of hurting young women.  Time and time again, Nancy Alcorn watched as the young women she worked with at the juvenile facility passed the age of eighteen and ended up in the women’s prison system because they never got the real help they needed.

During the next three years, as Nancy Alcorn investigated child abuse cases for the state of Tennessee, she saw firsthand why so many of these young women were angry and hurting.  Working with juvenile delinquent girls and investigating alleged cases of child abuse gave Nancy Alcorn the opportunity to interact directly with secular rehabilitation programs and the girls impacted by those programs. It was during this time that Nancy Alcorn realized that these programs were not producing permanent results that exemplified changed lives.

Following her tenure with the state, Nancy Alcorn accepted an appointment as Director of Women for the Nashville Teen Challenge.  Through all of these experiences, Nancy Alcorn began to realize that true transformation would never come as the result of any government system.  Nancy Alcorn understood that only Jesus could bring restoration into the lives of girls who were desperately hurting and searching for something to fill the void they felt in their hearts.

Nancy Alcorn began to sense that God was unfolding a plan prompting her to step out in faith.  God called Nancy Alcorn to help hurting young women find freedom and have their lives transformed.  With her experience to assist her and God to guide her, Nancy Alcorn would prayerfully make a giant step of faith to help hurting young women.

In January of 1983, Nancy Alcorn relocated to Monroe, Louisiana and established Mercy Ministries of America.  Nancy Alcorn was determined that the Mercy Ministries program would bring about true-life change in the lives of young women.  With that in mind, Nancy Alcorn knew there were three guiding principles to which she must always remain faithful.  First, Nancy Alcorn committed that Mercy Ministries would accept girls free of charge.  Second, Nancy Alcorn committed that Mercy Ministries would donate ten percent of all donations to other organizations and ministries.  Third, Nancy Alcorn made the decision that Mercy Ministries would never accept any state or federal funding.  In no way did Nancy Alcorn want any money that might interfere with the freedom to share Christ.

Since 1983, Mercy Ministries, under the leadership of Nancy Alcorn, has seen exponential growth and impact.  Establishing locations in Louisiana, Tennessee, Missouri and California, Nancy Alcorn has seen her God-sized dream impact numerous women ages 13 to 28.  Nancy Alcorn has seen Mercy Ministries grow beyond the borders of the United States with home in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Canada.

Nancy Alcorn and Mercy Ministries help young women seeking freedom from physical and sexual abuse (including sex trafficking), eating disorders, self-harm, drug and alcohol addiction, depression and unplanned pregnancy.  Mercy Ministries, with Nancy Alcorn serving as Founder and President, assists young women through a non-conventional approach to healing that allows them to stop and break destructive cycles of behavior.  Nancy Alcorn continues her commitment to helping young women recognize their self-worth and reach their full potential.

For more information about the services offered by Nancy Alcorn and Mercy Ministries, visit the Mercy website online at http://www.mercyministries.com.