Designing Spaces: Next up on “Designing Spaces:” counter tops.  Now, if you like the look of marble but maybe it’s a bit out of your price range, we’ve got a great alternative for you! We went to Sanford, Florida to get the story.

Fasculo: Whether a new home or a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project, your choice for counter tops and wash basins is important to both the style and function.  With a natural appearance of stone becoming increasing popular, more counter tops are taking on the granite look.  With the beauty of granite come certain limitations.  Designers and manufactures have been developing new materials that capture that beauty of polished stone without the downside.  I’m here with Vince Albachiaro from Designs and Solid Surface, a Florida authorized pre-owned fabricator.  And, Vince, we need not look far around this kitchen to see what jumps out at us.

Albachiaro: We have a beautiful countertop here, don’t we?

Fasculo: We really, really do.  And I think most people who are watching at home would think that this is some sort of stone or quartz, but in fact it’s not!

Albachiaro: No, this is premier solid surfacing from Kanwa Surfaces.

Fasculo: Very nice.

Albachiaro: Yes, it’s a solid surface—the premier solid surface.  So it’s totally seamless, it is environmentally friendly, it’s durable, it’s stain, chemical-resistant, and resistant to heat also.

Fasculo: Wow!  You know, I find it unique that you said it’s environmentally friendly.  How do you make a countertop environmentally friendly?

Albachiaro: Well, we’re very concerned about the environment.  And that’s why we use 22% recycled materials in the beautiful countertop that we have here.

Fasculo: That is something we all need to concern ourselves with.

Albachiaro: Absolutely.

Fasculo: Also, I mean, when I look at this I think what it might cost for this to be a stone.  In fact, it’s seamless; it would be ten times what you would pay for this.

Albachiaro: Yes.  Solid surfacing allows you to have a seamless appearance in a continuous running surface, where you can have coal back-splashes, intricate sinks, and you can use it in many different areas.  Let’s talk about some of the different colors and applications that we have.  It comes in twelve beautiful colors.  This one, Tumo, is our color that we’re using here in the kitchen.  And again, because it’s a solid surface, it’s easy to clean and easy to maintain.

Fasculo (Designing Spaces): You know what?  I love some of the names of these.  I see Rhythmic Shine, and Orange Moon, Leche, Tiara, all across the board.  So literally, something for every kitchen!

Albachiaro: Absolutely.  Also, it’s great for use in bathrooms.  It has an NSF 51 Certification for food service applications.

Designing Spaces: And I also understand it’s very easy to clean.  Can you go ahead and give me a demonstration?

Albachiaro: It is really simple.  It’s simple soap and water—just a wiping on the surface and a wiping off.  Because it’s nonporous, nothing penetrates it.  Where, with natural stones and granites and quartzes, any of those products—they can absorb water.  And that’s where mold and mildew grows.  And that’s what you can’t get with the solid surfaces.

Designing Spaces: Especially great for us who have little kids.

Albachiaro: Absolutely.

Designing Spaces: Now, I also understand that there is a quality about Breon that most people probably wouldn’t understand.  Could you describe that to me?

Albachiaro: Well, they say this material actually admits far more infrared rays, which is supposed to have a soothing and calming effect on the people in the kitchen.

Designing Spaces: This is a good thing, especially around Thanksgiving so I can cook that turkey and be calm throughout the entire ordeal.

Albachiaro: That’s what they say. I prefer a glass of wine.  But that is what they say.

Designing Spaces: Well, that sounds great!  I’m calm already. Vince, thank you so much for inviting me into this lovely kitchen.  This Henwa Surfaces Breon line is fantastic.

Albachiaro: Thank you very much, Brian.

Designing Spaces: Feeling good in the kitchen, I’m Brian Fasculo!

About Designing Spaces on Lifetime Television

The “Designing Spaces” TV show on Lifetime is a half-hour informative series that inspires viewers to make every space count.  “Designing Spaces” instructs them on the smartest ways to make their homes more beautiful and functional.  To view episodes of “Designing Spaces” online, just go to http://www.designingspaces.tv. If you have a great idea for a story, or want to be a part of the “Designing Spaces” show, please contact LysaLiemer at lysa@designingspaces.tv. If you have a great idea for a story, or want to be a part of the show please contact LysaLiemer at lysa@designingspaces.tv. You can also find us on Twitter at @DSpacesTV or on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/DSpacesTV!

Through a partnership with a great local pool contractor, CWD Construction is able to provide the same quality services outside a client’s home as they offer indoors. For years, the CWD Construction team has listened to customers bemoan the inconsistent quality from pool providers in the area. They’ve repeatedly asked CWD Construction to build their pool for them, and now this service is available through a partnership with CWD Construction and a local trusted contractor. This contractor shares CWD Construction’s dedication to providing custom design and platinum quality workmanship.

Pool packages are currently available for new and existing homes, says the team at CWD Construction. But pools aren’t the only outdoor upgrade the company provides. CWD specializes in turning your indoor living space into the home of your dreams and the same can be done for your outdoor areas, as well. If you are a lover of nature, CWD Construction can turn the back yard into a personal oasis, creating stone patios and outdoor kitchens and grilling areas.

If you like to entertain, CWD Construction can transform a back yard into an ideal entertainment area, with a cabana, a recessed seating area, and CWD Construction’s own personal touches that make your outdoor areas a retreat. As with all of CWD’s design projects, the company takes special care to construct each square inch of its outdoor projects to exceed standard building codes. While Sonia Dohm has an interior design background, Chuck Dohm is a trained engineer who has high standards for each of their projects.

Working alongside the design architect, CWD Construction’s Chuck Dohm ensures each structural header is secured with bolts instead of nails, which prevents sagging over time. Instead of handing out jobs to the lowest bidder, CWD Construction works hard to develop lasting relationships with subcontractors who share the company’s vision.

Known throughout North and South Carolina for their work, CWD Construction provides the highest quality, whether it’s in the grade of paint or flooring to the materials used to secure foundations and roofing. Residents have grown to be able to spot a CWD Construction home at first sight, simply by its upgraded kitchen or dream bathroom. This is a philosophy the company continues to carry forward to its outdoor living spaces.

To learn more, visit CWD Construction online at www.cwdconstruction.com

DR Marketing Group:You can tendto your own garden in a backyard, townhouse courtyard, condominium, or just about anywhere.It’s so easy and fool-proof that any one at any age can do it.

Backyard Botanical:You can grow flowers, herbs, and your very own spices fresh from your own backyard to your dining room table. It doesn’t matter where you live or how little space you have.It’s all possible, thanks to the one-of-a-kind 4 by 4 Backyard Botanical, Eden Garden.

DR Marketing Group:Now, seasonal gardening is simple, convenient, and available to anyone, anywhere you live.Even if you have a big backyard, tending an oversized garden can just be too much work, with kids, jobs and other demands on your time.

Backyard Botanical:The versatility, convenience and personal satisfaction of the Backyard Botanical Eden Garden makes the most of your time and space.It’s easy to use, it’s self-sufficient, and there’s very little work involved.

DR Marketing Group:It’s handy, it’s out-of-the-way, and it’s an education tool for my children to get to grow things and it’s just an easy system to use.

Backyard Botanical:Believe it or not, it’s is all you need to grow your own eco-friendly, fresh garden.The patented 4 by 4 Backyard Botanical is a raised bed, ready-to-assemble, self-contained gardening system, measuring 20 inches high.

DR Marketing Group:Raised bed gardeningholds the soil above the ground for a custom soil mix that is perfect for your crops.

Backyard Botanical:It also allows for easy access without tilling, walking, and compacting the soil. Because the Backyard Botanical is raised, you’re not bent over, adding stress and strain to your back, your knees, and your whole body.

DR Marketing Group:Not only is the bed held in special polyethylene planting tubs to promote better root attachment and expansion, but the overall structure, including built-in trellis, is made of special, decay resistant natural cedar, which is ideal for moist environments.

Backyard Botanical:It also featuresdurable, vinyl coated fence that stands up to whatever your kids, pets, or even small rodents can throw at it.

DR Marketing Group:Everything you need to assemble and maintain your garden is right at your fingertips, making the Backyard Botanical Eden Garden the easiest, most versatile garden you can find.

Backyard Botanical:It really is a self-contained little backyard garden.  So there is no reason that anyone today can’t grow their own produce, you don’t have to go to the grocery store and pay 5 dollars for a tomato, you can grow your own and they taste better and you don’t need a lot of room for it.

DR Marketing Group:In today’s economy, none of us have a lot of time or a lot of money, and for what you get in such a small package, it’s really a very good product.

DR Marketing Group:Can I grow my flowers, herb and vegetables at the same time?

Backyard Botanical:We’re happy to tell you the answer is a resounding Yes.The Backyard Botanical Eden Garden features 16 square feet of planting area – 16 square feet. That’s enough to grow vegetables for a family of four or enough flowers for a wedding party.

DR Marketing Group:The Backyard Botanical Eden Garden makes the most of square foot gardening, so you get almost twice the harvest in half the space of a conventional row garden. It even features a built-in trellis to increase your growing area – vertically!

Backyard Botanical:Did you know that the Burpee Seed Company reports that gardeners can harvest $1,250 worth of produce with just an investment of $50 in seed and fertilizer?  Which means the Backyard Botanical Eden Garden will more than pay for itself in the very first year!

DR Marketing Group:When you grow your own food and produce, you know it’s fresh, homegrown, and organic, free of any pesticides or chemicals.

Backyard Botanical:The quality in the food, like the taste – the tomatoes are sweeter, the broccoli is crunchier – it’s more of a wholesome, fresh taste.

DR Marketing Group:It truly is more delicious growing it organically and it’s less expensive then having to go purchase organic food at the grocery store.

DR Marketing Group, based in Pompano Beach Florida, is a wholly owned subsidiary of O2 Media Inc, and the sister company of  Quorum Productions Inc., BrandStar Entertainment and O2 Production Studios Inc.  DR Marketing Group is a turn-key marketing agency focused on developing and implementing brand integration strategies. With core competencies in direct response (DR) television production, branded entertainment, online & mobile marketing, and product distribution, DR Marketing Group is able to respond quickly and efficiently in order to meet the demands of an increasingly competitive marketplace. For more information about DR Marketing Group, please visit www.drmarketing.com or contact Christopher Seega, Vice President of Brand Development and Marketing, at 954-691-1102.

A cruise is a preferred way to travel for many reasons, Ian Woodman explains. First, he says, is that it gives you a small taste of several destinations in one trip. According to Ian Woodman, most ships stop in several ports during a one-week or two-week trip, with tours available at each stop. And as Ian Woodman found, you may often discover destinations for future vacations during these stops, returning to spend more time in the future.

During Ian Woodman’s honeymoon cruise, he and his wife were treated to a taste of Jamaica, Cozumel, and the Bahamas. While in Jamaica, Mr. and Mrs. Ian Woodman were treated to a view of Dunn’s Falls, a popular destination for tourists. Visitors of Dunn’s Falls can climb up to six hundred feet while enjoying breathtaking views while led by a guide. As Ian Woodman explains, climbing is, of course, optional and some simply choose to stand on the sidelines, taking pictures. At the base of the waterfall is a beach where visitors can relax, while those who make it all the way to the top will find souvenir shops. Ian Woodman calls Dunn’s Falls a must-see destination for anyone visiting Jamaica, adding that it is one of the most amazing things he’s ever done.

In Cozumel, Ian Woodman and his wife were able to swim with the dolphins for the first time. It proved to be such an incredible experience that he swam with dolphins five times within the next seven years. According to Ian Woodman, Dolphin Discovery provides a variety of packages for visitors. Ian Woodman notes the Dolphin Royal Swim, which allows you and your family to swim with the dolphins. This swim includes the famous foot push, where two dolphins pull you along as you stand on them. The Dolphin Swim Adventure allows you to watch the dolphins with a snorkeling mask, Ian Woodman describes, and the Dolphin Encounter is specifically designed for children.

In addition to being able to visit a variety of locations, Ian Woodman and his wife were impressed by all the offerings on the cruise ship itself. There seemed to always be something to do, Ian Woodman explains, with delicious meals and fun activities making every minute of the trip as excitement-filled as possible.

Luckily for Americans, rental properties are in available, giving prospective renters a choice beyond the traditional apartment or condo rental, Alamo’s Timothy Powers says. Timothy Powers of Alamo points out that desperate homeowners, who may be unable to pay a mortgage while waiting months, possibly even years, are putting properties up for rent. According to Timothy Powers of Alamo, this creates plenty of rental opportunities for those who can’t qualify for a home or would actually prefer to rent. This group of homeowners may be risky renting from because the property may go into foreclosure and you might be expected to move earlier then anticipated sites, Tim Powers of Alamo.

Experts are saying the home market could take years to rebound, Timothy Powers of Alamo points out, meaning homeowners could be stuck in homes for years. Many of these homeowners are now “upside down” in their mortgages, Alamo’s Timothy Powers points out, meaning they owe more than they could get if they sold. Homeowners are advised to wait it out, according to Timothy Powers of Alamo, but that isn’t always an option, as forced relocation and inability to afford monthly payments force homeowners to find a way out of a mortgage.

Unfortunately, the economy has forced many homeowners to fall behind on mortgage payments, Timothy Powers of Alamo says, leading them to eventually face foreclosure. As owner of East Bay Foreclosure Support, Alamo’s Timothy Powers assists homeowners who have fallen on hard times. These homeowners often have no choice but to turn to renting, Alamo-based Timothy Powers says, and with the damage foreclosure does to credit, landlords are hesitant to rent. In addition, Timothy Powers of Alamo points out that rent costs are on the rise in general, causing cash-poor consumers to desperately seek out lower-rent properties.

Alamo’s Timothy Powers does note, however, that the market means good news for investors. The time has never been better to buy into rental property, Timothy Powers of Alamo observes. Since housing prices are lower than they have been in years and rent prices are on the rise, a landlord stands to make money right now. And, better yet, eventually property values will begin climbing again, making that investment pay off  over the years.

Alamo-based Timothy Powers is a twenty-year veteran of the real estate market, specializing in foreclosures. Timothy Powers of Alamo recently founded East Bay Foreclosure Support, a business that provides free foreclosure support to families in need.

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.

—
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.

A child’s first visit to Dr. David Snodgrass DDS and the pediatric dentists at Snodgrass-King typically includes a diagnostic dental exam. At the pediatric dentistry office of Dr. David Snodgrass DDS, an important tool used in a child’s diagnostic dental visit is radiography, or X-rays. Radiographs enable pediatric dentists like Dr. David Snodgrass DDS to visually examine the underlying structure of the teeth and jaws. “Without X-rays,” explains Dr. David Snodgrass DDS, “many dental conditions could not be diagnosed until it was too late.”

Beyond detecting cavities, says Dr. David Snodgrass DDS, X-rays give pediatric dentists an opportunity to view erupting teeth before they break through the gums. X-rays are also indispensable for evaluating injuries, diagnosing bone afflictions, or preparing for orthodontics. The earlier dentists can identify a dental problem, says Dr. David Snodgrass DDS, the sooner it can be treated. Dr. David Snodgrass DDS also points out that early dental treatment for your child is less expensive and more comfortable than delayed treatment for exacerbated conditions.

According to Dr. David Snodgrass DDS, young children with a high risk of tooth decay should have an examination and radiograph at least once per year. Every third year, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS suggests requesting a thorough capture of radiographs. Dr. David Snodgrass DDS explains that a complete radiography session means a panoramic X-ray of the child’s mouth and bitewings.  At the office of Snodgrass-King, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS and the other pediatric dentists use the finest modern safeguards during X-ray procedures. Radiograph technology has improved over the years, notes Dr. David Snodgrass DDS, in safety as well as effectiveness. Statistically speaking, adds Dr. David Snodgrass DDS, any potential harm done by X-rays during examinations is negligible in relation to the harm posed by undetected dental problems like severely impacted wisdom teeth or bone disease.

For more information about the pediatric dental services offered by Snodgrass-King Pediatric Dental Associates, visit them online at http://snodgrassking.com.

About Dr. David Snodgrass DDS

Since 1987, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS has practiced dentistry in the greater Nashville area.  A graduate of the University of Tennessee, he earned his Doctorate of Dental Science in 1984.  In 1986 Dr. David Snodgrass DDS received his pediatric dentistry certificate from Children’s Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio.  In addition to his practice, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS currently serves at Vanderbilt University in the capacity of a part-time professor of pediatric dentistry.

Dr. David Snodgrass DDS, along with co-founder Dr. John T. King, established Snodgrass-King Pediatric Dental Associates.  Dr. David Snodgrass DDS wanted to establish a dental practice that parents could trust and where children would feel safe and welcomed.  Snodgrass-King Pediatric Dental Associates offers a kid-friendly, carnival-like environment with a focus on pediatric dentistry excellence.  Dr. David Snodgrass DDS’ dream has grown from one to multiple offices serving the greater Nashville area, including Spring Hill, Murfreesboro, Hermitage and Franklin/Brentwood.

Dr. David Snodgrass DDS’ expertise can also be found in numerous publications.  The author of articles concerning growth and development, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS has appeared in several orthodontic and pediatric dental journals. Dr. David Snodgrass DDS holds memberships in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Orthodontic Society, the International Association of Orthodontics and the Tennessee Dental Association.  Dr. David Snodgrass DDS has numerous awards and accolades including the Achievement, Fellowship and Diplomat Awards from the American Orthodontic Society and the International Association of Orthodontics.  Through orthodontic study organizations, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS is a recognized lecturer and mentor in the Southeastern United States.

Outside of his practice, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS believes it important to use his talents and gifts in the service of humanity.  Since 2007, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS has taken service-oriented trips to Haiti.  Following his initial trip, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS would journey to perform the same work in the Dominican Republic.  After working in the Dominican, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS was flown back into Haiti.  In 2010 on his return trip to the area, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS worked in the dental clinic of Danita’s Children Hope for Haiti Center.  The Hope for Haiti Center dental clinic was fully equipped by Snodgrass-King Pediatric Dental Associates.  In that most recent trip, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS witnessed over 300 Haitians receive cleanings, fillings, sealants, and extractions, stainless steel crowns, as well as having routine procedures performed.  In November of 2010, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS and Dr. King led a team of eleven team members from their dental practice back to Haiti and the Dominican Republic.  A brief stop over in Sousa allowed the team to treat over 200 patients, free of charge.

Most recently a group of 15 Haitian orphans visited the United States and middle Tennessee to record a music project.  Those orphans stopped by Dr. David Snodgrass DDS’ offices of Snodgrass-King and were treated for any and all types of dental procedures.

From his belief in a “kid-friendly” environment to his pursuit of pediatric dental expertise, Dr. David Snodgrass DDS believes excellence in pediatric dental care is essential.  And with that belief in excellence Dr. David Snodgrass DDS has a heart to serve and give that same excellence to those who may never have the opportunity to receive such dental care.

Dr. David Snodgrass DDS and his wife Melody reside with their three children in Brentwood, Tennessee.

For more information about Snodgrass-King Pediatric Dental Associates go to http://snodgrassking.com/ or call them at 615-771-1111.

Jonathan Berkowitz suggests that parents should select a theme or goal beforehand to occupy the children. Jonathan Berkowitz says that nature walks can stimulate a child’s imagination and enhance his or her learning. At the same time, says Jonathan Berkowitz, family nature walks give parents the opportunity to reflect on their lives and relax in the peace and quiet of the natural world.

Jonathan Berkowitz advises parents to give family nature walks a theme to direct the children’s energy. One such project, says Jonathan Berkowitz, is a plant field guide. Jonathan Berkowitz recommends bringing along a notebook and crayons or colored pencils. Jonathan Berkowitz tells parents to have their children draw any interesting plants they come across. In addition to drawings, says Jonathan Berkowitz, encourage children to collect samples of plants they like. Upon returning home, says Jonathan Berkowitz, parents can help the kids preserve the plant specimens by pressing them between wax paper sheets with an iron on low heat. This is an old craft project, says Jonathan Berkowitz, which can instill fond memories for a lifetime.

Another project involves entomology, says Jonathan Berkowitz, or the study of insects. While many adults do not like insects, acknowledges Jonathan Berkowitz, many children do enjoy the pursuit. For an etymology project, suggests Jonathan Berkowitz, bring along a magnifying glass and some small containers for examining and collecting specimens. If you find your kids are not inclined to catch bugs, adds Jonathan Berkowitz, guide them to make drawings of the insects in their nature walk notebooks. Later, says Jonathan Berkowitz, you can assist them in researching the names of the plants and bugs that they encountered during their outing.

Jonathan Berkowitz says parents may also discover that their children are interested in rocks and minerals. Collecting samples of rocks and minerals, points out Jonathan Berkowitz, can be a lot of fun. Rock collecting is also a good physical pursuit, adds Jonathan Berkowitz, encouraging the kids to search and dig beyond what they can readily see. However, do not allow children to chip at rocks with tools, cautions Jonathan Berkowitz, unless they use protective eye wear to guard against chips.

According to Jonathan Berkowitz, bird watching is another nature walk project that families can enjoy together. Bring along a digital camera, recommends Jonathan Berkowitz, to photograph the birds. Also try spending some time listening to the birds’ songs, suggests Jonathan Berkowitz, and try to point out differences among them. This will encourage kids to hone their powers of observation, concludes Jonathan Berkowitz.

About Jonathan Berkowitz

Jonathan Berkowitz received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Queens College in Flushing, New York in 1994. Following studies at the Long Island University, Jonathan Berkowitz became a certified school social worker and school Psychologist in 1997. Jonathan Berkowitz earned a Masters of Clinical Social Work from New York University in 1999, and later was recognized as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). In 2000, Jonathan Berkowitz was issued a Post Masters certificate in Early Childhood and Adolescence Psychotherapy. Jonathan Berkowitz obtained Post Masters certification in Gestalt Therapy from the Gestalt Association of Psychotherapy in New York City in 2002.

It was while Jonathan Berkowitz was studying at Queens College that he served in the Brooklyn Public Schools as a special Education Instructor from 1993-1994. Jonathan Berkowitz also served as a school Psychologist and Social Worker in Brooklyn with the Board of Education. Additionally, Jonathan Berkowitz did an internship in social work at Maimonides Psychiatric Outpatient in Brooklyn.

During 1999 and 2000 Jonathan Berkowitz worked as an outpatient social worker, MSW, CSW at New Hope Guild in Brooklyn, New York. Jonathan Berkowitz served as Administrative Assistant, MSW, and LMSW at Fordham Tremont Center in Bronx, New York during 2003-2004. Additionally, Jonathan Berkowitz offered his services as Clinical Social Worker, MSW, and CSW to the Jewish Board of Family & Children Services in Brooklyn, New York from 2002 through 2006.

During 2004–2005, Jonathan Berkowitz worked at the Bikur Cholim Department of Clinical Services in Rockland, New York as Administrative Director, MSW, and LMSW. Jonathan Berkowitz currently maintains a private practice in Teaneck, New Jersey focusing on children, adolescents, couples, and families.

To contact Jonathan Berkowitz, call 646-338-5424 or email berkj1517@yahoo.com. For more information about his services visit www.familiesheal.com.

For beginners, Yochanan Berkowitz suggests hiking as a pleasant and relaxing exercise. Yochanan Berkowitz adds that hiking is an opportunity to learn more about nature. Be sure to prepare before hiking, cautions Yochanan Berkowitz, by wearing the right footwear and bringing appropriate provisions. Yochanan Berkowitz explains that hiking boots should have good arch and ankle support. Carry water and trail mix on a hike, says Yochanan Berkowitz, to maintain steady hydration and energy levels. Wear comfortable breathable clothes, adds Yochanan Berkowitz, to wick moisture away from the body and prevent chafing.

Yochanan Berkowitz also encourages the gathering of preliminary information about the trail you plan to hike. If the hiking trail is in a state or national park, Yochanan Berkowitz suggests visiting the park office nearest the trailhead for a map. A helpful park official can also give relevant seasonal advice about the terrain, points out Yochanan Berkowitz. Find out what sort of wildlife you are likely to see on the trail, says Yochanan Berkowitz, so you know what to look for. As an individual goes on more hikes, says Yochanan Berkowitz, he or she will become acquainted with endurance thresholds and can begin to surpass them. Hike with a group or partner, suggests Yochanan Berkowitz, to make sure that help will be available if anything unexpected happens on a hike. Additionally, hiking with a group is a great chance to make new friends and have fun, points out Yochanan Berkowitz.

About Yochanan Berkowitz

Yochanan Berkowitz began his professional studies in Psychology at Queens College in Flushing, New York. In 1994, Yochanan Berkowitz earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and following further studies Yochanan Berkowitz was awarded a Masters of Clinical Social Work. Later Yochanan Berkowitz received the designation of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

During his studies at Queens College, Yochanan Berkowitz had the opportunity to employ his passion for helping others in the New York City Public Schools as a special Education Instructor in Brooklyn from 1993-1994. Yochanan Berkowitz also served for several years as a school Psychologist and Social Worker with the Brooklyn Board of Education. Several years were also spent doing an internship in social work at Maimonides Psychiatric Outpatient in Brooklyn.

In 1997, Yochanan Berkowitz became a certified school social worker and school Psychologist following studies at the Long Island University. Yochanan Berkowitz received his Masters of Clinical Social Work two years later from New York University. Completing additional studies in his chosen field, Yochanan Berkowitz obtained a Post Masters certification in Early Childhood and Adolescence Psychotherapy in 2000 and Gestalt Therapy certification from the Gestalt Association of Psychotherapy in New York City in 2002.

Yochanan Berkowitz used his experience to serve in Brooklyn as an outpatient social worker, MSW, CSW at the New Hope Guild from 1999-2000. Yochanan Berkowitz added breadth to his vocational opportunities while serving as Administrative Assistant, MSW, and LMSW at Fordham Tremont Center in Bronx, New York during the years of 2003-2004. While there, Yochanan Berkowitz began offering his skills as a Clinical Social Worker, MSW, and CSW at the Jewish Board of Family & Children Services in Brooklyn New York.

The years 2004 and 2005 found Yochanan Berkowitz at the Bikur Cholim Department of Clinical Services in Rockland, New York where he was the Administrative Director, MSW, and LMSW. Currently Yochanan Berkowitz maintains a private practice in Teaneck, New Jersey that primarily serves children, adolescents, couples, and families.

To contact Yochanan Berkowitz by telephone, call 646-338-5424. Yochanan Berkowitz can also be reached via email at berkj1517@yahoo.com. For more information about his private practice visit www.familiesheal.com.

It is Chef Ben Vaughn’s strong desire to restore balance to the way people think about eating. In light of this goal, Chef Ben Vaughn reports on a study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. This journal published a study that compared the efficacy of low carb diets to low fat diets.

The study found, says Chef Ben Vaughn, that neither diet is better than its competitor. Chef Ben Vaughn says the study revealed that neither a low fat diet nor a low carb diet produced lasting healthy weight loss. The two-year study, notes Chef Ben Vaughn, followed the efforts of 307 people diagnosed as obese. These people were divided into two groups based on their diets.

Chef Ben Vaughn reports that both groups experienced comparable average weight loss, about 22 pounds. What’s more, says Chef Ben Vaughn, both groups gained nearly 1/3 of the weight back during the second year. Being restricted to low fat or low carb diets, says Chef Ben Vaughn, also had an effect on the health and morale of the participants.

Side effects of the study, reports Chef Ben Vaughn, included hair loss, bad breath and constipation. Chef Ben Vaughn says that the study was also illustrative of the shortcomings of diets in another way, namely dropout rate. Chef Ben Vaughn notes that over one third of the participants in the study dropped out because the diet was too difficult or unpleasant to stick with.