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Cindy Seip, Director of Book Design
Born with a crayon in one hand and a camera in the other, Cindy Seip has never ventured far from her creative instincts. Through the years, her creative side took hairpin turns but always finished with a checkered flag.
As an “A+” student in art, it was her 12th-grade art teacher, Mr. Popovitch, that set her on a professional course in design, introducing her to the Ft. Lauderdale Art Institute. There, she would earn her degree in Advertising Design.
She began her career at the Miami Herald Tropic Magazine and later started her own design + underwater portrait photography business. Over the years, Seip has amassed an impressive client list with some high-profile names like Sony, Nasdaq, Ericsson, Blue Cross Blue Shield, AvMed, Miami International Book Fair, Breakthrough Miami, and many more. Her accolades reflect her keen eye for design.
Seip resides in sunny Miami with her husband, Miami Herald Photojournalist, Al Diaz, two great kids, and a cute Wheaten Terrier named Amanda Bubbles.
What's Going On?
By Tony Farmer
Director of Development, The Inkandescent Group, LLC
July 2020
On May 21, 1971 singer and songwriter Marvin Gaye released his eleventh album entitled What’s Going On. In 1985, writers on British music weekly the NME voted it best album of all time. In 2004, the album’s title track was ranked number four on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. A 1999 critics’ poll conducted by British newspaper The Guardian named it the “Greatest Album of the 20th Century.” In 1997, What’s Going On was named the 17th greatest album of all time in a poll conducted in the United Kingdom by HMV Group.
What is less known about the album are the personal trauma’s that Marvin Gaye was dealing with at the time. He had recently lost his good friend and song partner Tammi Terrell to cancer. He was reading letters from his brother who was serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. In addition, there was social unrest across the country as the civil rights movement fought for equality. One of Gaye’s good friends had witnessed a clash between police officers and protesters that history refers to as Bloody Thursday.
He was cautioned by his record label that the song was too controversial. They tried to impress upon him that he was an artist, not an activist. We know how that played out.
Fast forward to nearly 50 years later. “What’s Going On” is as relevant as ever because the issues that plague our communities are the same.
21st Century Woman
By Cheryl A. Patella
About the book: A 21st Century Woman embraces the realization of the many things that have happened in our century and the incredible advances hard won by other women. Just a few examples of rights that we didn’t have 100 years ago are: the right to vote, the right for birth control, the right to own property, the right to go and get an education, the right to go to law school, the right to hold a position in the senate, congress and the judicial system.
Some don’t realize how our world has changed over the past 100 years 21st Century Woman explores all of this and more!
Ms. Patella is a professional wellness coach and trainer spanning over 35 years with 5 years hosting her own fitness tv show, wellness column and many magazine articles. Her book covers a life time of knowledge in wellness spirituality healthy cooking.
Polo Love
About the book: A beloved extra-large Weimaraner dog steals the hearts of the Alliegro family. The book is full of photos of Polo’s journey of living in Miami with the wonderful people that love him dearly. The book also features many inspiring quotes and some that will have you reaching for a tissue. Polo also teaches his family the noblest and purest form of love only a dog can do.
It's Pospie
By Morty Varat and Danielle Joseph
About the book: His dream was to see every corner of the earth. When the going gets tough, the tough get going. Popsie made it happen! After he received a full check-up, the doctor said, “The best thing I can recommend is for you to get rid of some of the tension.”
Being a good student, Morty took doc’s advice and traveled the globe in what he calls, “around the world in 80 years.” The book is full of wonderful “Popsieisms,” little sayings that Popsie would love to share with one and all in a fun way to teach from what he learned in life.
Morty was destined to be in the fashion business with 20 years at the helm of sports fashion company, Tail. Morty provides lots of invaluable business advice.
The Year That Was
By Sylvie Jordan
About the book: Poetry when written from truth, can move mountains, stir souls, and open hearts. It can heal and restore us to a place of love. On rare occasions the stars align, and a project, a mission, a dream takes flight. This interesting and powerful writer, Sylvie Jordan, will take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing through her poetry.
Living in Exile, gives us insight into loss beyond our control and the feelings of despair one feels when parted from a loved one. Forgiveness teaches us that we are solely responsible for everything we experience.
These poems will be unique to each of you. They will touch your inner longings, forgotten hopes, wishes and dreams. Immerse yourself in The Year That Was and experience the power of words.
A Love Affair with Frankie's Pizza
By Cesar A. Becerra
About the book: Is it possible to find love in a toasty square slice of pizza? Cesar Becerra thinks so. His shadowing of Miami’s Gourmet Pizza King Frank Paquarella in 1995 proves it. Frankie’s Pizza has survived hurricanes, development, half-hour delivery competitors and the ever-rising fast pace of modern life.
Still it sits on the same corner in Western Dade County as it did on Valentine’s Day in 1955, when Frank and Doreen Pasquarella began baking their pizza.
With more than 40 photos and countless behind-the-scenes anecdotes, this book will all but allow readers to taste a square slice of award-winning culinary heaven.
Manno
By A Fokal Special Edition
About the book: For more than 30 years, Manno Charlemagne has been the vocal conscience of Haiti. As a singer, songwriter, political activist and one-time mayor of Port-au Prince, he constantly challenged the status quo and stood up for the millions of poor Haitians who otherwise would have had no voice.
A soulful yet brazen balladeer, Manno for decades used his acoustic guitar and tender baritone voice as weapons against the brutal Duvalier regime and the civilized indifference of the insulated upper-class. A skinny, poor rebel from the slums, he was the little black fly in a cold glass of milk.
Henry & Vicky
By Ellie Brecher
About the book: A simple handwritten note was the inspiration to pen this limited edit edition dedication of the life and times of Henry and Vicky. The story of Henry Mikael begins in Aleppo, Syria, referred to as Halab in Arabic. An ancient even among the ancients, dating back to 5,000 B.C.
Henry earned his law degree and upon returning home married the love of his life. The book follows their adventures of 65 years of marriage, children and life.
Aristides & Elda
By Nery Ynclan
About the book: On Elda and Aristides’ journey through like there would be floors to sweep, churros to fry, hair to spray and roofs to lay, but all the work would pay off beyond their wildest ambitions. Their love of family, their sacrifices, their ingenuity and great success is a story rich in life lessons for all.
But as with so many Cuban refugees, before the bounty there would be tragedies to tend, abject poverty to overcome and a revolution to escape. Sometimes profound tragedy and poverty can kill hope, but in certain, very special people it can ignite a winning spirit.
Robert is Here
By Cesar A. Becerra
About the book: Part history book, part lessons for life and business, this account proves that all fruit stands are not created equal.
Enjoy behind-the-scenes insights into the journey of Robert and Tracey Moehling and family as they serve shakes by the thousands, endure storms that threaten to end it all, and create a flow that has enabled them to weather nearly six decades in business.
From Albany Park
By Joseph Kaplan
About the book: From Albany Park is a collection of poems written over many years, covering different periods of life. The poems confront memories, trying to make sense of them, while also acknowledging the present, in all it’s joy and uncertainty.
Growing up in a northside neighborhood know as Albany Park, Joseph believed in language, and he offered creative ways to educate in understanding the power of this gift.
His love of language was evident in his commitment to helping make the world a more inhabitable place. Where all men and women are offered an education, humane working conditions, fair pay and the opportunity for higher education.
Quiet Rage
By Tony Farmer
Director of Development, The Inkandescent Group, LLC
June 2020
Since the tragic death of George Floyd at the hand of the Minnesota Police Officers, I have been struggling.
I’ve been trying to get my head wrapped around how I feel. I’ve had conversations with people who are seeking explanations as to why it happened. Others want to know how it has impacted the Black Community. Some need comfort and consolation to help them cope with watching a video depicting the loss of a man’s life. The fact is that I just haven’t taken the time to focus on out how I feel until now.
I started digging through memories, recalling situations, scenarios and experiences that I have suppressed. I swept past the fake smiles that I’ve worn, the artificial pleasantries exchanged and the micro-insults endured.
Soon my skin felt warm, my muscles tensed, my heart became heavy.
Raven Johnson, Math Tutor and Instructor
A graduate student in the Computational and Applied Mathematics program at Claremont Graduate University, Raven Johnson has been tutoring students in math since 2017. She has worked at Elite Prep and Upward Bound, and the Port of Los Angeles High School.
A graduate of Dartmouth College’s Mathematics program (2018), her goal is to work with students to help them not only master math, but learn to love it as she does. In the future, Raven hopes to become a professor and researcher.
Click “Read More” to view her entire bio, and find information to contact Raven.
Veronica Lauren Scott, Tutor, PhD student Organizational Behavior
PhD candidate Veronica Scott has been an academic tutor since high school. A graduate of the University of Kentucky’s psychology program with a minor in cognitive science and Jewish studies, she’s currently studying for her doctorate in organizational behavior at Claremont Graduate University in Southern California (class of 2024).
An award-winning debate club student, she has taught public speaking, speech writing, and debate to varying age groups. She has also tutored test preparation in one-on-one settings on a contract basis. In fact, one student received a National Merit finalist award after receiving tutoring in test preparation with a focus on math.
Veronica is also the founder Williamson Service Corps in Nashville, TN (2018), which recruited volunteer tutors throughout middle Tennessee, coordinated tutors in teams with defined expectations, including weekly service, developed and presented ongoing tutor curriculum, and led efforts to engage tutors with refugee children and children otherwise at risk in trauma-informed, respectful ways.
Click “Read More” to view her entire bio, and find information to contact Veronica.
About Michael Pirron
In 2006, Michael Pirron founded Impact Makers — a revolutionary social enterprise model. An “all-profit-to-charity” IT consulting firm, it is governed by a volunteer Board to ensure its commitment to mission, and which was gifted to two public charities to create lasting community benefit.
With $50 and a laptop, and as CEO grew it to a staff of 140, until he left the company last year.
What inspired him to create the organization?
Michael spent the early years of his career as a Senior Consultant with Andersen Consulting (now Accenture). His tenure allowed him to consult, with increasingly complex engagements, throughout the EMEAI (Europe, Middle East, Africa, and India) region.
During this time, he lived or worked in seven countries and spent significant time in more than 25 nations becoming conversant in French along the way. When he moved on to be a Product Manager with ViryaNet Systems in Jerusalem, Israel, he added Hebrew to his language skills. Later, while an independent consultant, Michael completed an MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.
Upon returning to the US, Michael held positions including the Manager of Application Development at Health Management Corporation (HMC), a leading disease management company and subsidiary of WellPoint Blue Cross / Blue Shield (one of the nation’s largest providers of health insurance) and the Director of Product Development at First Health Services Corporation.
In May 2019, he filed a lawsuit suing Impact Makers for negating the intent of of what he calls his “big hairy audacious goal (BHAG).” Keep in touch as the case evolves.
Michael Pirron, Impact Makers from Tony Loyd on Vimeo.
Follow Michael at www.MichaelPirron.com
Richmond Times-Dispatch: Founder and former CEO of Impact Makers files lawsuit claiming he was wrongfully forced out of the B Corp business
Richmond Times-Dispatch, May 2019 — A Richmond-based company known for its innovative business model that includes donating all of its profits to charity is now facing a legal challenge
from its own founder.
The founder and former chief executive officer of Impact Makers filed a lawsuit last week claiming that he was wrongfully pushed out of his leadership role with the technology and management consulting business.
Michael Pirron, who started Impact Makers in 2006 and led the business until he stepped down as CEO in January 2018, contends in the lawsuit that the company’s charitable mission could be jeopardized because its board of directors voted in April to change its corporate governance structure.
Pirron’s lawsuit, filed May 8 in Richmond Circuit Court, also claims that some of the company’s
executives and board members “vindictively and maliciously conspired” to remove him from
leadership.
The lawsuit seeks to reverse a vote by the company’s board in April that rendered toothless a “permanent director” role that Pirron had retained even after his departure as CEO. The role gave Pirron veto authority over certain matters affecting the company’s public benefit mission. Pirron had used that power to squelch proposals such as changing the company’s bylaws to allow for compensation of its volunteer board, changing a bonus plan for executives, and a proposal to sell the company to insiders.
Richmond BizSense: Founder of Scott’s Addition-based Impact Makers sues company for $18 million after alleging he was forced out
Michael Pirron filed suit against the IT firm he founded in 2006 last week after claiming other executives forced him out of the business.
May 16, 2019, Richmond BizSense — The original CEO of a well-known local IT firm is suing the company he founded, claiming he was pushed out by “ambush” to clear a path for an allegedly illegitimate sale.
Michael Pirron last week filed suit against Impact Makers, which he launched in Richmond in 2006 and helped grow to upwards of $20 million in revenue annually.
The company gained notice for routinely landing on lists of Richmond’s fastest-growing companies and for gifting its equity shares and the proceeds of its eventual sale to two local charities.
Also named as defendants in the suit are company executives and directors Karen Coleman, Teresa DiMarco, Scott Walker, W. Wilhelm Rabke, Andrew Wolff, Rodney Willett and Marianne Vermeer.
University of Virginia Darden School Foundation Case Study: Impact Makers — The Newman’s Own of Management Consulting
This field-based case was prepared by Elena Loutskina, Associate Professor of Business Administration; Gerry Yemen, Senior Researcher; and Jenny Mead, Senior Researcher, Olsen Center for Applied Ethics. It was written as a basis for class discussion rather than to illustrate effective or ineffective handling of an administrative situation.
I’m a fiscal conservative, and I don’t believe in unbridled capitalism. Impact Makers is how I could best use my skills, experience, and training to go to work every day and make an impact in the world and change the world. That’s not why everyone is here, but that’s why I’m here. — Michael Pirron
Michael Pirron was looking in a mirror thinking about the difficult task he had at hand. Nine years earlier, in 2006, he founded a new type of company, Impact Makers, with the help of $50, a single client, and a laptop. On the surface, the company was no different than any other IT consulting company: it attracted top-quality employees, paid them competitive salaries, and provided superior service to its clients.
What was different was that the company was committed to donating 100% of its lifetime value to charitable causes, largely through partnerships with various nonprofit organizations. In 2015, Impact Makers reached annual revenue of $17.8 million and had cumulatively contributed more than $1 million to local charities since 2006. By any standards, Pirron’s built-from-scratch model had made a significant impact on the local community. But was it enough?
Establishing Impact Makers was a point of pride and achievement for Pirron. His company’s commitment to community added a spring to his step on the way to the office. It made him feel happy and complete in his job and gave him a sense of purpose. He knew that he was not alone in feeling this way. He was surrounded by a team of like-minded individuals and friends. “We are a group of middle-class professionals doing the same work we have always done in the consulting industry and receive market wages,” Pirron said. “But we are now making the same impact in the community as most foundations!”
In 2006, Pirron and his team started with a “big hairy audacious goal” (BHAG) of making a sustainable $1 million cumulative community impact using cash and pro bono work. As the company grew and surpassed this goal, it decided to revise the BHAG to state that by 2024, Impact Makers would make at least a $100 million cumulative impact in the communities in which it did business.
To do that, Impact Makers had to further grow its consulting business both through expanding a menu of services and through conquering new geographical markets. To do either, or both, the company needed a cash infusion. Internal cash was limited, as up to 40% of it flowed to charitable partners, demonstrating Impact Makers’ commitment to its mission. Raising debt for a company without fixed assets was challenging and time consuming.
Complicating it all was that being structured as a nonstock corporation rendered equity raising difficult. Could Impact Makers raise money to grow and stay true to community values at the same time?
Click here to purchase the entire case study.
Meet Anna Gibbs: Yoga Teacher and Wellness Coach
Hi! My name is Anna. I am excited to offer my wellness-coaching program, Wellness by Anna Banana. My goal is to help clients become the happiest, healthiest version of yourself by creating the life they want to live — from the inside out. That looks different for everyone, of course, so I focus on the three main pillars of health: nutrition, physical fitness, and emotional well being.
Meet Lindsay Parnell: Authentic Dance and Meditation teacher
Lindsay Parnell (b. Pennsylvania 1995) is an authentic movement and mediation teacher, as well as a performance, sculpture, and installation artist who currently lives and works in Richmond, VA.
Lindsay is most interested in utilizing movement and breathing as a means of learning about one another and developing deeper empathy for each other. She does this through teaching authentic dance and meditation classes at Your Well on Wheels: YourWell.us.
Her art is her passion, and it has been exhibited in many spaces including Little Berlin in Philadelphia, PA; Present Co. in Brooklyn, NY; and various spots throughout downtown Richmond — such as Gallery5, Black Iris, The Anderson and Yellow Zone Artspace.
Meet Taylor-Leigh Adams: Authentic Movement Teacher
Dance has been a constant in Taylor-Leigh Adams’s life. At VCUarts, her artistic skill and devotion to dance has led her to join a production of Liz Lerman’s Still Crossing before the Virginia General Assembly, and participate in student-created choreographies and performances. During her sophomore year, she was selected as an Outstanding Dance Student Leader; the following year, she was awarded a Joan Oates Scholarship for achievement in K-12 dance education.
According to Adams, her craft is her guiding principle. “[Dance] has been my creative freedom,” she says, “my endorphin-high, my individual expression, my sense of discipline, and my way of life.”
Skiing Rules: 12 Life Lessons Learned on the Mountain
By Loel York
with Hope Katz Gibbs
Illustrations by Michael Glenwood Gibbs
An Introduction from Hope:
SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO DO IT AFRAID
What is the purpose of learning to ski?, I asked Loel York, the ski instructor sitting on the chair lift beside me as I took my first climb up Utah’s Powder Mountain on March 8, 2017. I was 53.
“In addition to the freedom and fun, there is the exhilaration of pushing past your fear of falling —getting hurt, or even dying — and the liberation of leaving the business of your life behind,” explained the master teacher who has been training novices to ski for more than four decades.
As he shared his insight about the downhill journey I was embarking on, my shaking hands and tightly wound nerves began to calm. Skiing never captured my imagination. But a friend who had been coming here since he was a teen, invited me to come along.
While the idea of sliding down a giant snow-covered mountain on slippery sticks wasn’t really appealing — I preferred to walk along sandy beaches in a bikini — I put on my big girl panties (and several layers of clothing) and accepted the challenge.
Amazingly, I felt remarkably safe sitting next to this master teacher. Certainly, the reassuring sound of his voice calmed me, but more than that — I was intrigued with the wisdom Loel was sharing.
The instructions he was giving me were Zen-quality life lessons — the stuff of profound wisdom that should also be applied off the mountain.
By the time he helped me off the chair lift, I knew Loel could write a book to share his knowledge with more people than those lucky enough to take his 4-hour lesson.
When I suggested it after our first successful run down the “green” slope, said he was intrigued. Several runs later, I was skiing with confidence and he promised to follow up. A year later, he called.
Loel said he’d been thinking about my proposition, but had needed time to process his ability and willingness to share what he considered common sense.
As we began the writing process, Loel confided that it was his day-job — as an instructor that helps wayward youth regain a foothold in society through wilderness training — was his real motivation for working on this book project.
“I wouldn’t be a very good ski instructor if I didn’t work with these teens that needed guidance,” he explained. “They have taught me about working through intense obstacles more than any other experience I’ve had in my life — and my life has been filled with challenging experiences.”
The little book you hold in your hand is the result of the chance meeting that I had with wise Loel — and the lifetime of wisdom he has accrued. Our hope is that we all master the trip down the mountain — with skill, joy, and grace. — Hope Katz Gibbs
What are the 12 Lessons Learned?
Virginia Business magazine: Food City focuses on trends as it marks an anniversary
December 31, 2018, Virginia Business magazine
By Hope Katz Gibbs
As Abingdon-based Food City celebrates its history, President and CEO Steve Smith is keeping his eye on emerging consumer trends.
With supermarkets nationwide offering a growing number of products and services, staying competitive can be a challenge, he says.
Food City is a $2.5 billion family business. Smith’s father, Jack, and three other family members opened an 8,800-square-foot Piggly Wiggly supermarket in Grundy in 1955.
Virginia Business magazine: Albemarle County town to feature autonomous shuttle service
December 31, 2018, Virginia Business magazine
By Hope Katz Gibbs
In March, residents and visitors in Crozet will have the chance to ride around the Albemarle County town on an autonomous shuttle.
Called TONY (TO Navigate You), the shuttle service will provide six-seat electric vehicles capable of moving with little or no human input, says Paul Perrone, the man behind the machine.
Perrone, a University of Virginia alumnus (Graduate School of Engineering, ’95), founded Crozet-based Perrone Robotics in 2003. Since then, he has developed MAX, a patented autonomous engine that adapts to its environment. “MAX is to robots as Windows is to computers,” says Perrone.
In November, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution to bring TONY to Crozet. To celebrate, Perrone took the supervisors for a spin in an autonomous vehicle.
I Homeschool My Kids — and you can, too!
Answers to the 3 Big Questions about Homeschooling, with guides to getting started and assessing your progress and success
By Hope Katz Gibbs
It’s the decision of a lifetime to homeschool your kids. Will they get the education they deserve? How will it impact their social life? Will they get into college? And that’s just the start of the investigation.
In this book and documentary video series, our mission and vision is to provide case studies of families that are going through the process — from asking themselves if homeschooling is right for them, to assessing how they did in the end. We’ll share case studies of the challenges and successes, and advice these parents and kids have for others going through the process?
In three chapters we’ll flesh out as many details as possible to answer these three big questions.
QUESTIONNAIRE: “I Homeschool My Kids — and you can, too!”
Sample Questions for Parents
- What made you decide to homeschool your children?
- How many kids do you have — and are they all homeschooled?
- Were you homeschooled as a child? If not, what type of education did you receive (public, private, other)?
- Did you enjoy your academic experience?
Sample Questions for Students
- Did you like the idea of being homeschooled?
- What are your favorite classes? Why?
- Which classes / subjects are most challenging? Why?
- Tell us about your day, week, and month.
"Why Divorce: 5 Reasons to Leave," by Hope Katz Gibbs
Why Divorce? That’s the question I started asking myself in November 2005 when I had the first inkling that I wasn’t happy in my then 10-year-old marriage. I pushed the thought aside to focus on my kids, who were 6 and 10 at the time.
In the decade+ that has followed, I have talked with dozens of friends, colleagues, and acquaintances about their marriages — asking those who were unhappily married what it was that enabled them to file for divorce, or what kept them from it. Couples who were happily married intrigued me, too. I wanted to know their secrets!
Those conversations inspired me to create this book trilogy:
- Why Divorce: 5 Reasons to Leave
- Why Marry: 5 Reasons to Say Yes
- Why Remarry: 5 Reasons to Do It Again
Packed with case studies based on interviews with women and men who have been through these experiences, we thank everyone willing to share their stories to help others who are working their way through the process.
The books also include guidance from experts. For example, in Why Divorce, you’ll hear from divorce attorneys, mediators, financial planners, marriage counselors, child therapists, and others who offer tactical, heartfelt assistance.
Why Divorce: The 5 Reasons to Leave
Meet Shell: Slow Flow Yoga Teacher
Hi, my name is Shell! I’ve been practicing yoga for 10 years. I got into it because I wanted to express myself through the freedom of movement.
And I fell in love with yoga because I quickly realized that it was as much a mental practice as a physical one.
Yoga helps me relax my active mind. It also enables me to feel at ease, and release tension, from my body. The yoga I teach is a slow flow practice, and those who will benefit from this is someone new to yoga — and those who are looking to find peace and clarity within.
Calling Truly Amazing Yoga Teachers
Inkandescent Yoga is looking for yoga teachers to be part of our growing network of health and wellness practitioners.
Our outreach program: We book experienced teachers for regular sessions at corporations and hotels, for lunch-and-learns, workshops, and one-on-one sessions. Our teachers will also teach at our new health and wellness center in Richmond, VA.
"PR RULES: THE PLAYBOOK" — Order your copy today!
The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Snagging Headlines and Winning Customers Using the 8 Steps to PR Success
Washington, DC, April 2014 — If you have ever tried your hand at promoting your business—either on your own, or by hiring one of the zillion PR firms in America—you know that there are innumerable ways to spread the word about the good work you are doing.
“That’s because crafting a successful PR and marketing campaign is an art, as much as a science,” explains journalist Hope Katz Gibbs, co-author of the upcoming book, “PR Rules: The Playbook,” and founder of www.InkandescentPR.com, an Inkandescent Group company.
“The difference between a successful campaign, and one that falls flat, is finessing the tools with style and grace—and knowing what to do each day to maximize your visibility,” Gibbs insists.
What do you need to do to create an effective PR and marketing campaign that builds credibility, increases sales, and gets reporters to call you for your expert opinion?
Meet Hope and Anna Gibbs, founders, Inkandescent Health & Wellness
About Hope: A journalist for more than 30 years hopegibbs.com, Hope founded Inkandescent Public Relations in 2008 and since has worked with hundreds of small business owners to build their brand and grow their companies. A lifelong student of the healing arts, Hope became a massage therapist specializing in pregnancy massage in 1991. After raising a family of her own, she became a Reiki Master in 2015, and in 2016 finished her 200-hour Kundalini Yoga teacher training. She practices yoga daily, and is thrilled to share her passion for the power of tapping into your inner-knowing, expanding your self-love, and opening your heart to yourself and others. The 108-bead Mala that she wears around her wrist reminds her daily to be the best version of herself that she can be. Founding Inkandescent Health & Wellness with her daughter Anna is a dream come true.
About Anna: A 2017 photo / film graduate of VCUarts, Anna has been taking pictures since she was a child. Videography became a passion in high school, and in recent years Anna has made her living creating beautifully crafted, heartfelt wedding videos. She says she follows the light and love: AnnaGibbsWeddings.com. In 2018, Anna followed another passion — yoga and fitness, when she became a certified yoga teacher and a fitness coach. Helping people create the bodies they love is her mission, and through Inkandescent Health & Healing her goal is to inspire one new person each day to live the life of their dreams.
Become a Member: Inkandescent Health & Wellness
Packages and Pricing
Get Your Heart Pumping: The more you work out, the more you save at The Well.
- Single class drop-in: $15
- 5 classes / month: $60 membership*
- 10 classes / month: $100 / membership*
- Unlimited: $108 / month membership* — includes 30% discounts to our workshops and events, and a free 30-minute service each month (fitness coaching session, mini massage or Reiki session, or Inkubator business coaching session)
*All memberships include unlimited access to our online classes starring our yoga and fitness teachers.
Pump Up Your Small Business: YourInkubator.com
Who needs an Inkubator?
Small business owners in the health and wellness industry — as well as others looking to grow their big idea — will be mentored monthly by our experienced business coaches, including veteran entrepreneurs, PR and marketing professionals, life coaches, financial specialists, and more.
Check out what’s included in our six-month program: $100 / month
Healers, Yoga Teachers, Health & Wellness Professionals — We Invited You to Partner with The Well
Who’s working at The Well?
Massage therapists, reflexologists, acupuncturists, Reiki master, yoga teachers, fitness experts, healthy cooking professionals, artists, photographers, musicians — you are invited to share your gifts to your clients and ours at Inkandescent Health & Healing.
Press Release: What Will Fatherhood Look Like in 2020?
Washington, DC, June 11, 2015 — Does being a dad make you a better entrepreneur? That’s one of the questions tackled in the special Father’s Day issue of Be Inkandescent magazine.
For inspiration, we turn to our newest client, entrepreneur and futurist Michael Vidikan, who runs the Dallas-based futurist think tank www.FutureInFocus.com.
We celebrate the launch of his revamped website this month, which features more than 1,400 briefs on international, corporate, and consumer trends — including business, emerging, generational, and geographic reports.
In this issue, we share three articles on the topic of fatherhood based on Future in Focus briefs:
- The Next Generation of Stay-at-Home Dads
- Millennials and Parenting: New Approaches in the Digital Age
- The New American Grandparents
In our Tips for Entrepreneurs this month, we share two more research studies:
- The 2015 Manifesto: Fathers, Sensitivity, and Parenting
- The Future of Men: The 5 Types of Guys — and what they want
The Speed of Lights
299 792 458 m / s
The Speed of Light
How the rocket scientist found his wings
By Hope Katz Gibbs
“Nothing can travel faster than the speed of light,” explained the rocket scientist to the white-winged dove perched on the windowsill beside his tidy desk.
For the last two years, she’d kept him company while he was working, reading, or just quietly thinking loud thoughts.
Press Release: Take a Bite Out of Climate Change With the "No More Bull" Crowdfunding Campaign
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs, founder
Inkandescent Public Relations,
www.inkandescentpr.com
email: hope@inkandescentpr.com
cell: 703-346–6975
Signed copies of the “Meat Free Monday Cookbook” by Paul, Mary, and Stella McCartney will go to the two people who donate the most money to the “No More Bull” crowdfunding campaign
Washington, DC — In celebration of Earth Day, ChompingClimateChange.org is launching a No More Bull campaign today.
Designed to slow climate change — before it’s irreversible — No More Bull includes a crowdfunding component created in partnership with the nonprofit organization A Well-Fed World.
The goal is to raise a minimum of $500,000 to develop activities that inspire people through music to accompany events including Live Earth on June 18 — created by Al Gore, Kevin Wall, and Pharrell Williams. If enough funds are raised, No More Bull will also help develop activities for this year’s United Nations Climate Change Conference, which will be held in Paris from Nov. 30 to Dec. 11.
QUESTIONNAIRE: Share your story — "Why Divorce"
Questionnaire
1. Tell us about your experience with divorce.
- What was the situation?
- How long were you married when you starting thinking about getting divorced?
- Why did you want to leave?
- How did your spouse feel about your decision?
- How long did it take to make the decision?
- What kept you from leaving sooner?
- Do you wish you had waited?
2. Expand on your initial thoughts by picking the category your situation fits into: Adultery, Addiction, Abuse, Abandonment, or Angst. Offer as many details as you feel comfortable with.
Ask the Experts: Meet the Divorce Specialists
Internationally renown Gestalt therapy trainer Elinor Greenberg, Ph.D, author, “Borderline, Narcissistic, and Schizoid Adaptations: The Pursuit of Love, Admiration and Safety” — An internationally renown Gestalt therapy trainer who specializes in teaching the diagnosis and treatment of Borderline, Narcissistic, and Schizoid adaptations — in a lively and practical way.
She also takes her understanding to the masses, by explaining the details of borderline, narcissistic, and schizoid adaptations to readers of Quora.com. She has been named a Top Writer for 2017 and 2018. Dr. Greenberg’s book, “Borderline, Narcissistic, and Schizoid Adaptations: The Pursuit of Love, Admiration and Safety,” is the topic of our podcast interview for our new Truly Amazing Women book series — “Why Divorce: 5 Reasons to Leave,” by Inkandescent™ founder, Hope Katz Gibbs.
Divorce Attorney Rachel L. Virk, author, “The Four Ways of Divorce: Litigation, Negotiation, Collaboration, Mediation” In practice since 1989 litigating, negotiating, collaborating, and mediating divorce cases throughout Northern Virginia, Rachel is Certified as a Mediator by the Virginia Supreme Court at the Circuit Court Family level, and is a trained collaborative law practitioner. A member of several local, state, national and international professional associations addressing divorce dispute resolution, she is the author of “The Four Ways of Divorce.”
In chapter 1, she explains: You want out. You no longer love or need your spouse. The kids are older, and you are now earning a living wage. You are tired of your spouse’s drinking, untreated mental instability, abusiveness or emotional problems manifested in part by destructive spending habits or other addictions.
Or your spouse has informed you that he or she wants a divorce, or no longer loves you. You find the cell phone records, emails, credit card receipts, hotel records or cards to your spouse from his or her paramour. You decide that if your spouse is unable to make you feel loved, fulfilled and happy, there may be someone else out there who can. You don’t want to feel empty and sad all the time anymore.
Or, you finally found your soul mate, and it is not your spouse.
Now what? Click here to read more.
INTRODUCTION: 108 First Dates — and one perfect lover
I love my husband. I always will. But on Thanksgiving 2005, I knew I couldn’t stay married to him. We’d wed 10 years earlier, and for the next decade, I struggled long and hard with a single burning question: Why Divorce?
What happened that night is not as important as the fact that for the first time in our marriage I saw with pained eyes that we loved differently, played differently, and looked at the world through very different lenses. Rather than our unique perspectives bringing us closer, it became increasingly clear that we were living separate lives. Had our two kids, two freelance careers and a five-bedroom house in the suburbs snuffed out the passion that once bonded us? If so, could I live without the true love I longed for — for the rest of my life?
Reason 2: Addiction
Richard of Indianapolis shares:
My first wife was mentally ill. I certainly should have figured it out long before I married her, but I was blinded by the love I felt for her. After she got pregnant with our son, her mental state deteriorated quickly — and at one point threaten to kill him. That was when I was sure I had to leave.
Before that I kept telling myself I could put up with this for my son. We were actually married four years. I soon realized it was much better for my son if I left her in raised him on my own. There was certainly a very difficult time with her mental illness it was very difficult to keep the Family together. When she was on her medication she was OK and things were pretty good, but she would never stay on the medication and then just had to wait for something bad to happen, I always knew something would happen but I never could do anything until she became a danger to herself or someone else.
Reason 3: Adultery
Simone of New Jersey shares:
In my marriage, I was filled with angst — and that eventually led me to do things I knew I shouldn’t be doing. As a child, I was applauded for being the good daughter, the rule follower. Don’t have sex before you get married, marry a nice Jewish boy. I did all of that and found the perfect match on paper. I knew I wasn’t ready to get married. I had oats to sew, but I was told by family “he may not wait”. I became enthralled with the wedding plans and the honeymoon and the fantasy of it all. Both families were thrilled, and it was the right thing to do. It didn’t take long for my soul to realize something wasn’t right. I was starving to fill an emptiness inside and there was always another man there to step up.
They weren’t as much physical affairs as emotional affairs. Although I needed both, I had my line in the sand, the boundary I wouldn’t cross. It was agonizing all around. We then bought a home, raised three daughters and I fell into family life. Two of my daughters were very ill for years and the last thing I could think about was my own happiness. There were financial struggles and his professional unhappiness and years of feeling unfulfilled. We loved and respected one another, but I was a dumping ground for everyone’s problems and struggles. I was the air they all breathed, and I was slowly suffocating.
Reason 4: Abandonment
Peter of Richmond, VA shares:
I have been back “out there” for 6 years now. It took me nearly 2 years to summon the courage to start over again after my former wife abandoned me, and our 16 year old daughter. I choose the word “abandoned” because that is what it felt like to me. When your wife of 18 years only offers you her reason of leaving as “I am not happy,” it left me wondering, why aren’t you happy?
I never abused her, either physically or verbally. Alcohol wasn’t an issue. I rarely drink any alcohol. I never “went out with the boys”. She wasn’t a hunting, fishing, or golf widow. I took my family to church nearly every Sunday. I took care of my body. I never wanted to get to the point of not caring about my appearance. So why would a woman, whom I had been with for 20 years, just walk away from her family? To this day, it is a mystery.
Reason 5: Angst
Cherri of Philadelphia shares:
I definitely fall into the Angst category. I always said it would be so much easier if he were a jerk, but he wasn’t. Perhaps I was trying to push him into being one, or pushing him to finally say, “enough, I’m out”. That never happened, and probably never would have. I had to make that agonizing decision and finally say, “I can’t do this anymore.”
How long was I married before I starting thinking about getting divorced? Almost immediately. I cried headed to the airport for my honeymoon. I think at the time I had no idea why. I blamed it on leaving home and being a complete grown up now. My soul knew better. It took almost 30 years. I knew if I stayed my soul would starve. I was becoming a person I didn’t respect, and I was making irresponsible and selfish choices. I had a lot of potential and character and I wasn’t doing either of them justice.
Awesome mom, 57, in Fairfax, VA shares:
My x-husband and I met at the beach after college, and was the first man I’d met in my life who fit right into the role I wanted both of us to play. I liked making the decisions and being in control — he was happy to acquiesce. After two years of courting, we married and had four kids in eight years. It wasn’t long after when I began to realize I married the wrong man.
What began as a safe relationship for me began to feel like a heavy burden. But how could I end it? I was an executive with a stressful full-time job, and I couldn’t imagine what my life would be like without a partner to help — even if I did the heavy lifting of planning, preparing, care taking, and decision making. So I stuck it out for another 9 years.
Maggie of Baltimore shares:
I was married to someone on paper, but in the “real” world I always felt like I did not have a partner. I thought when you marry someone, that person is supposed to be the one whom you love unconditionally, laugh together, and talk with from the bottom of your heart. The person who can read you without ever having to speak a word. That comfortable pair of shoes that you wear in your heart. The kind of relationship that you would see in a family TV show from the 1950s.
I was raised with old-fashioned values. I come from a family where my parents stayed together and always presented a united front, where they put family and kids first, where they would give you the shirt off their back, where we all sat around the dinner table at 6:30, and where divorce was something that happened in other families.
This is how I will love you now
Because saying goodbye is so difficult — no matter what the reason is for a breakup — this is a collection of thoughts, art, poetry, and more to help ease the pain, and to help you know that you are not alone.
Time, it is said, will heal all wounds … that and comforting thoughts, and friends who you have not yet met.
Here’s to easing your burden, and helping you know there is light on the other side.
If you have something similar to share — a poem, thought, artwork, a video or photo — please send it along for publication: hope@hopegibbs.com.
Why Did Pre-Med Major Anik Singal Decide Business Was His Future?
What entrepreneur doesn’t want to supersize their small business?
In today’s Inkandescent.TV interview with Anik Singal, 34, you’ll discover how this native of India and Maryland went from envisioning his life as a doctor to launching the multi-million-dollar distance learning firm, Lurn, Inc.
Like many entrepreneurs, his road was paved with moments of failure he didn’t think he’d recover from. But thanks to the support of his family and friends, this visionary bounced back!
Seasoned Entrepreneurs Share Secrets of their Success at Grand Opening of the Lurn Cener in Rockville, April 14-15,
If you could ask any question of an entrepreneur who turned their idea into a multi-million company — what would it be? You’ll have the chance April 14-15 at the Grand Opening to the Lurn Center, a state-of-the-art 26,000 square-foot training and community center: 2098 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD
Four successful entrepreneurs will be speaking and taking questions from the more than 1,500 guests expected to attend the April 14-15 Grand Opening of the Lurn Center — an expansive 26,000-square-foot entrepreneurship training and community center provides a shared workspace, in-person and distance courses, camaraderie, community, and more.
“We are so pleased and proud to have such amazing leaders from the business community help us launch the Lurn Center,” explains Anik Singal, 34, who since launching the multi-million-dollar training firm Lurn, Inc., in 2002, has helped thousands of entrepreneurs find success by teaching them to maximize digital advertising, social media marketing, and email marketing to grow their businesses. For his work, BusinessWeek recognized him as one of the Best U.S. Entrepreneurs Under 25.
Click here to learn who the speakers will be!
Would You Like to Win $50,000 For Your Start-Up?
Eight start-ups are vying for the $50,000 LurnVestor prize to be awarded at the April 15 Grand Opening to the Lurn Center, a state-of-the-art 26,000 square-foot training and community center: 2098 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD.
Judges include Kevin Harrington (pictured right), an original “shark” on the hit TV show Shark Tank, and founder of As Seen on TV; and Kevin Strawbridge, CEO of Clickbank._
Don’t miss the nail biter of the event on April 15, when nearly 1,500 entrepreneurs in attendance will discover the recipient of $50,000 prize from the LurnVestor program, the funding arm of Lurn, Inc., which is headquartered at the Lurn Center, 2098 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD.
“For weeks, candidates have been submitting videos for the judges to assess and analyze before deciding the winner,” explains Anik Singal, 34, who since launching Lurn, Inc., in 2002, has helped thousands of entrepreneurs find success by utilizing his training courses that focus on digital advertising, social media marketing, email marketing, and consulting. For his work, BusinessWeek recognized him as one of the Best U.S. Entrepreneurs Under 25.
The Lurn Center will provide a home-away-from home to thousands of entrepreneurs, Singal believes, for the expansive 26,000-square-foot entrepreneurship training and community center provides a shared workspace, in-person and distance courses, camaraderie, community, and more.
Calling All Entrepreneurs: Join Us to Celebrate the Grand Opening of the Lurn Center April 14-15 in Rockville, MD
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs
Inkandescent Public Relations, www.InkandescentPR.com
703.346.6975 / hope@inkandescentpr.com
CALLING ALL ENTREPRENEURS: LURN CENTER OPENS WITH FANFARE APRIL 14-15 IN ROCKVILLE, MD
Small business owners from metropolitan DC will learn how to grow their companies at the grand opening of the Lurn Center, a state-of-the-art 26,000 square-foot training and community center: 2098 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD
April 1, 2018, Rockville, MD — What do entrepreneurs need most?
“They need to jump on that flash moment— a brief window of time when something shifts and the door to opportunity swings wide open,” insists Anik Singal, 34, who on the weekend of April 14-15 will host the grand opening of the first state-of-the-art Lurn Center, an expansive 26,000-square-foot entrepreneurship training and community center that will also provide in-person and distance learning courses.
“Every entrepreneur has two choices when they feel the flash: Jump in and seize the day, or stand still and watch the door close — with you on the wrong side,” explains Singal.
Since launching Lurn, Inc., in 2002, he has helped thousands of entrepreneurs find success by utilizing his training courses that focus on digital advertising, social media marketing, email marketing, and consulting. For his work, BusinessWeek recognized him as one of the Best U.S. Entrepreneurs Under 25.
Come Lurn — for free — April 14-15
Be Inspiring: Join the Teacher Network at Inkandescent™ Learning
WHAT DO YOU TEACH?
Apply today to be part of our growing teacher network by answering these questions:
1. What is your area of expertise?
2. How long have you been teaching?
3. What is the name of the class you’d like to teach?
4. To which group would you like to teach the class: Women, Wellness, Kids
5. If you’d like to teach students, share your background and subject matter experience.
6. Please send us a syllabus of the class you’d like to teach.
7. Please send us your bio, resume, photo, and contact information
8. If you have a video of you teaching, please send that along.
Email your responses and any questions to hope@hopegibbs.com.
Once accepted, you’ll receive information about getting started. Scroll down for details about membership.
About Inkandescent™ Learning: Master Teachers Provide Distance Learning Classes = Women + Wellness + Kids
Inkandescent™ Learning is an educational distance learning nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting Women, educating and inspiring Kids, and bringing health & Wellness to every body.
“Thanks to distance learning, boundaries of geography no longer impede access to master teachers and excellent curriculum,” explains founder journalist, publicist, and entrepreneur Hope Katz Gibbs, whose mission is to connect master teachers with students of all ages in three segments to reach a wide audience, and earn income.
Meet the Inkandescent™ Learning Team
Inkandescent™ Learning is the education company of the Inkandescent Group, LLC. Designed to provide distance learning opportunities for K-12 kids in homeschool families, as well as public / private school. Coming in 2018 will be an array of classes taught by top-notch accredited teachers that help children hone the core classes, and access programs that will guide them to the careers and lives of their dreams. For more information, call Hope Katz Gibbs, founder, at 703-346-6975.
Jim Thorne Music: Get ready "To Follow Apollo"
To Follow Apollo
Sing-Along Lyrics and Notes by Jim Thorne
1. The Stars Go By
2. The Robots Fly
3. A Spaceship for Two
4. The Little Bear
5. To Follow Apollo
6. The Countdown Song
7. Voices from the Sky
Hope Katz Gibbs, bio long
Journalist, publicist, author, and entrepreneur Hope Katz Gibbs started her career as a newspaper and magazine reporter after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania in 1986. Then, after studying for her master’s degree in educational leadership at The George Washington University, she launched her freelance writing business in 1993.
Gibbs has won several awards for feature and column writing for her articles, which have appeared in The Washington Post, USA Today, The Miami Herald, Costco Connection, and dozens of business, education, and general interest magazines, newspapers, newsletters, blogs, and websites.
Gibbs got into the PR business in 2001, when she founded Great Handmade Gifts, an online art and craft website that represented artists, artisans, and authors from around the world. In 2002, she began a decade-long stint working as the director of communications for the City of Fairfax Schools, and in 2006 added another client to her list, the international futurist think tank, Social Technologies.
In 2008, she incorporated as The Inkandescent Group, LLC, and since then has helped increase the visibility and credibility of more than 250 entrepreneurs, educators, authors, artists, and small-business owners through the PR and marketing services she offers, including Be Inkandescent magazine, the Inkandescent Radio Network and the Inkandescent Speakers Bureau.
In August 2014, Gibbs released her first book, PR Rules: The Playbook — The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Supersizing Your Small Business With the 8 Steps to PR Success™.
For more information, contact Hope Katz Gibbs at hope@inkandescentpr.com.
Magical Manners: Go Beyond "Please" and "Thank You"
Almost every child of my generation was taught the magical words: Please and Thank You.
This began our lessons on polite interaction in a social setting. Times have changed, but good manners still remain an integral part of a child’s development.
Magical Manners is a course designed to help your child feel comfortable in group dining situations. Your child will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with peers in informal as well as formal settings.
The course will take place on two consecutive Saturdays.
- Each session is two hours long.
- The first Saturday will concentrate on informal dining settings and manners relating to dining while standing.
- The second Saturday session will cover formal seated dining and table settings, and how to interact with serving personnel.
- On both days, the students will be served lunch as an interactive, hands on learning tool.
New Moon Dream Circle: Monday, Nov. 2 at 7pm
Please join Soirée at Inkandescent for our first monthly: New Moon Dream Circle
When: Monday, November 2, 2016
Time: 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Where: Soirée at Inkandescent
1719 W. Main Street, 2nd Floor, Richmond
“Our Dreams are a way Spirit speaks to us to Guide us in our waking lives,” believes dream symbol interpreter Lady Stearn Robinson, who with intuitive guide Tom Gorbett has long helped people understand the messages offered in our dreams.
To help you dive deeper into your psyche, Voyager Tarot card reader and Reiki practitioner Terry Johnson has begun a monthly Dream Circle that will initiate relationships between like-minded people, and surround participants with light and love.
Repast at Soirée at Inkandescent
Soirée’s Classically Inspired Modern Cuisine
by Gold Medal Chef Terry Johnson
Breakfast
$15.95 per person
- Ham, Cheese, and Egg Casserole (Vegetarian Option Available)
- Assorted Breads
- Fresh Fruit Platter
- Coffee and Tea
Lunch or Dinner
$22.95 per person
- Roasted Free Range Chicken, Skirt Steak, or Poached Salmon
- Organic Greens Salad with Parmesan Pear Vinaigrette
- Choice of: Roasted Vegetable Platter or Baked Spinach Ziti
- Herb and Garlic Paleo Bread , Yeast Bread, and Butter
- Coffee, Tea, and Brownies
Reiki and Holistic Healing at Inkandescent
- Voyager Tarot Readings with Terry: $1 minute (minimum 30 minutes)
- Reiki Facelift with Terry: 20 minutes, $20
- Reiki Facelift with energetic healing: 40 minutes, $40
- 4-hands session with Terry and Hope: 60 minutes, $60
- One hour Reiki session with Terry: 60 minutes, $65
- One Hour Reiki session with Hope: 60 minutes, $85 (30 minutes, $50)
- Foot Soaks in herbal baths: $20
- Foot Soaks in herbal baths with reflexology massage: 30 minutes, $50
About the Voyager Tarot
Created by James Wanless, The Voyager Tarot deck is a guide to showing you how to achieve your visions and dreams, creating the success you desire.
“Use the deck as an intuitive guide to forecast your future, reveal secrets of you subconscious and provide spiritual inspiration,” James explains. “This excellent decision-making tool can help you navigate life, enhancing business planning, relationship building and self-discovery.”
He notes that even if you have never before delved into the mysteries of the tarot, you’ll find the Voyager Tarot deck enlightening and easy to use. Just by playing with the cards and experiencing the beautiful imagery, you create a space for magic to happen, sparking your imagination and intuition.
How did I get into reading the Voyager Tarot?
Intuitive Business Coaching by Hope
Are you ready to get past your fears and embrace your future? It’s as easy as 5-4-3-2-1 … Blast off!
- 5 hours
- 4 inquisitive questions
- 3 simple steps
- 2 big takeaways
- 1 eureka breakthrough that will launch you into the future you have been dreaming of!
About the 3 steps: In this simple, 3-step coaching process, experienced business owner, author and journalist Hope Katz Gibbs will be your guide. Note: Each 45-minute session can be done on the phone, in person in Richmond, VA, or — for those open to using alternative healing tools — at Hope’s Reiki studio (learn more about that option below).
- Session 1: Intake — In this 2 hour session you will think though the thoughts, ideas, and data about what you love about your work, what you hate about it, and what you believe are the blocks that are keeping you from truly accomplishing your goals.
- Session 2: Clearing — In our second session that lasts 1.5 hours, we’ll further uncover the issues that are blocking your ultimate success. You’ll also symbolically let go of the one, or more, things that are no longer serving you so get ready to clean those closets!
- Session 3: Visioning — Finally, our last 1.5 hour session will help you clarify the future you have been wishing for. In addition to creating a vision board that showcases your goals and ambitions, we’ll do additional exercises to prepare you for the live you are longing to live.
Inkandescent Dolphin Tank
Coming in the Spring of 2016: Inkandescent Dolphin Tank! Stay tuned for details.
Press Release: Sheldon Weiner Details How to Keep Your Family Financially Healthy
Washington, DC, June 22, 2015 — With more than 35 years of financial planning experience, financial advisor Sheldon Weiner has seen clients make literally hundreds of mistakes regarding their retirement planning.
However, the founding partner at Egan, Berger & Weiner LLC, based in Northern VA, has made a point of learning from his clients mistakes.
“As a husband for more than four decades, I do not want to have to explain to my wife, Sharon, why we do not have the quality of life in retirement that she has been looking forward to,” explains Weiner, who offers 10 simple steps to consider when planning for a comfortable retirement.
1. Save enough money! Yes, this should be obvious. And I am amazed that this very basic fact eludes so may people. Write this down: Save early and save often. I don’t care if it’s $5 a week. The sooner you start saving, and the more you can save, the better off you will be financially when you retire.
2. Make sure you put the plan in writing. So many people do not write down their plan for retirement. As a result, it is harder to stick to — and you are liable to sway from the proper path that can take you where you want to go. To keep this from happening to you, make sure your plan is realistic, complete, and gets you to your ultimate financial goals. Also, make sure you communicate these long-term goals to your spouse and your financial planner to ensure you are all on the same page.
Press Release: The Future of Fatherhood
Washington, DC, June 15, 2015 —The past decade has seen the emergence of a new twist on the traditional nuclear family: mothers who work full-time (like their fathers did), while fathers stay at home and take care of the day-to-day responsibilities of parenting.
“Although the Great Recession may have accelerated this trend, studies have shown that the majority of men who engage in full-time parenting have not been forced to do so by difficult economic circumstances, but, rather, have chosen to do so,” explains futurist Michael Vidikan, president of FutureInFocus.com.
His popular subscription-based strategic foresight and consulting firm that helps companies see years — or even decades — into the future to make better long-term decisions today.
Following are findings, drivers, and business implications for the trend.
Press Release: Future in Focus Launches Revamped Site to Help Companies Make Better Long-Term Decisions Today
Washington, DC, June 10, 2015 — Future in Focus celebrates the launch of its revamped website this month, which features more than 1,400 briefs on international, corporate, and consumer trends — including business, emerging, generational, and geographic reports.
A popular subscription-based strategic foresight and consulting firm, Future in Focus helps companies see years or even decades into the future to make better long-term decisions today.
“As the name of our company suggests, we want to put the future in focus and provide clarity and direction for organizations as they work to plan for what’s coming next,” said entrepreneur and futurist Michael Vidikan, who runs the Dallas-based futurist think tank.
Vidikan founded the firm in 2014, and clients range from small start-ups to international Fortune 500 companies, including ConAgra Foods, GM, The Hershey Company, Nissan, and more.
“Our coverage is mostly focused on trends that are consumer-centric and will impact the business community 2-10 years out,” noted Vidikan. “We cover a very broad spectrum of consumer and technology trends across many industries and geographies, from research about Millennials’ food preferences to the future of 3D printing in China.”
Press Release: How Much History Do Americans Actually Know?
Washington, DC, June 10, 2015 — When it comes to having a deep knowledge and understanding of the history of the United States, how much do you really know?
“It might be less than you think,” writes Saba Naseem on Smithsonian.com, which asked Grateful American™ Foundation founder David Bruce Smith what he believes can be done to fix this problem. Click here to learn what he has to say.
Smith explains: “I was born loving history. When I was a little boy, my grandfather said I should read biographies—especially about the great people like Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin; he believed that knowledge would flow into my young mind, and pool into a reservoir of wisdom that I would be able to tap in the future.
“It was good advice. My mother was also a bibliophile, and kept my shelves filled with classics, including biographies on Madame Curie and Winston Churchill to Catherine the Great and Joseph Lister.”
That’s why he created the Grateful American™ Foundation.
“The Grateful American Foundation honors my grandfather — and my father, Robert H. Smith, who always referred to himself as a Grateful American,” shares Smith. “We are a fortunate family, and because of that, he felt very strongly about giving back. During the last 20 years of his life, he devoted himself to education, and nothing excited him more than to see a child excited about learning—particularly history. So, I have taken his sentiment and converted it to a noun.
“Hopefully, the Foundation will move kids—and adults—to become more enthusiastic about it via videos, games, and interactive activities,” adds Smith, who in the June issue of his monthly history magazine features interviews with the four finalists — and the winner — the 2015 Washington Book Prize.
In the News: How Much U.S. History Do Americans Actually Know? Less Than You Think. The Smithsonian asks David Bruce Smith how we can fix this problem
Smithsonian magazine, May 28, 2015 — In today’s issue of Smithsonian.com, reporter Saba Naseem wrote: “Last year, PoliTech, a student group at Texas Tech University went around campus and asked three questions: “Who won the Civil War?”, “Who is our vice president?” and “Who did we gain our independence from?” Students’ answers ranged from “the South?” for the first question to “I have no idea” for all three of them. However, when asked about the show Snookie starred in (“Jersey Shore”) or Brad Pitt’s marriage history, they answered correctly.”
“This lack of knowledge in American history is not limited to college students,” she says, adding that studies over the years show Americans of all ages fail to answer the most simple of questions. A 2008 study by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, which surveyed more than 2,500 Americans, found that only half of adults in the country could name the three branches of government.
In addition, the 2014 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) report found that only 18 percent of 8th graders were proficient or above in U.S. History and only 23 percent in Civics.
To help address this problem, David Bruce Smith, an American author and editor, founded the Grateful American Foundation in 2014. The interactive educational series aims to restore a passion for history in kids and adults. We interviewed Smith over e-mail about his program and his thoughts on how teachers can make American history enjoyable to learn.
Press Release: Dave Beck Highlights the Importance of Long-Term Care Insurance
Washington, DC, May 27, 2015 — “Based on the principle of supply and demand, a student of economics would likely believe that with the aging American population, long-term care insurance packages should be flying off the shelf,” explains Dave Beck, a partner and insurance expert at the financial services firm Egan, Berger and Weiner LLC, based in Northern Virginia.
However, Beck notes, that according to the National Bureau of Economic Research, only 10 percent of the elderly have private long-term care insurance.
“The harsh reality is that there exists a two in three chance of at least one member of a couple going to a nursing home,” Beck insists. “Based on these statistics, you might think that demand for insurance to cover this risk would be strong, but you would be wrong.”
Consumer reluctance to purchase long-term care insurance can stem from a variety of reasons. High-premium rates, perceived cost-to-benefit analysis and the belief that the long-term care insurance policy will go unused are just a few of the arguments individuals.
“Maybe they don’t fully understand the consequences — yet, for a couple, there is a 91 percent probability that one of them will need some form of long-term care services and a 64 percent chance that one of them will enter a nursing home.”
However, there is hope.
Press Release: Cities of the Future — What Will Your Town Look Like?
Washington, DC, May 22, 2015 — What will our biggest cities look like in three years? In five years? In 50 years?
That’s the topic we tackle in the May 2015 issue of Be Inkandescent magazine, and we shine a light on one of the cities that is busy planning ahead for the future.
Our featured entrepreneur is Jane Ferrara, the chief operating officer of the City of Richmond’s Economic Development Authority. Her expertise in commercial real estate transactions, honed over 30 years in the private sector, allows Ferrara to anticipate the real estate needs of prospects and negotiate deals.
Case in point: Making a deal with one of the hottest companies in the country, Stone Brewing Co. Find out how she, and 200 of her colleagues, got Stone to bring its operations to the River City.
And be sure to check out Ferrara’s Tips for Entrepreneurs on how to make your company attractive to a large economic development authority.
Press Release: Historian Allida Black Shares her Insights on the Lincoln Era and Its Lasting Impact on Modern Times
Washington, DC, May 21, 2015 — What would America have been like if Abraham Lincoln had lived?
Allida Black, a research professor of history and international affairs at George Washington University, sat down with the Grateful American™ Radio Show to discuss how Lincoln’s assassination shaped our post-Civil War nation to the parallels in leadership and persona that exist between Lincoln and Eleanor Roosevelt, Black detailed how these events forever changed America.
“I can only say this: It would have been different,” said Black of Lincoln’s death. “We know that within a week before John Wilkes Booth murdered Abraham Lincoln, Lincoln was in fact talking publicly about voting rights for African-American soldiers who fought in the Civil War. Some historians of great note argue that that was the tipping point that pushed the assassin to murder.”
_In this podcast interview, David Bruce Smith, founder of Grateful American™ TV, and co-host Hope Katz Gibbs had a fascinating conversation with Ms. Black, delving into a variety of historical and hot-button issues,
Press Release: The National Museum of American History's John Gray Makes History Fun for Kids
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Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs, founder
Inkandescent Public Relations, www.inkandescentpr.com
email: hope@inkandescentpr.com
cell: 703-346–6975
Washington, DC, April 17, 2015 — What grabs your interest in the National Museum of American History? Is it Dorothy’s ruby slippers, an actual 199-ton locomotive, Julia Child’s kitchen, or the first ladies’ gowns? John Gray presides over it all, and seeks even more ways to connect Americans with their history.
This month, David Bruce Smith, founder of Grateful American™ TV, and co-host Hope Katz Gibbs had a stimulating conversation with John Gray in his corner office atop the museum.
“When you walk through the doors of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, you need to make a decision. Where should I look first?” says Gray.
The museum has in its collection more than three million artifacts, including Dorothy’s ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz,” sheet music written by local legend Duke Ellington, and an authentic 199-ton, 92-foot-long Southern Railway locomotive.
In this episode Gray also explains:
- What he hopes people learn by the time they leave the museum.
- How he determines what people, especially kids, want to see in the Smithsonian.
- And, why he thinks it is important to mix the past with the present when it comes to history education.
What is the Smithsonian doing to help people, especially kids, become more interested in American history? Watch here, then read all about it at GratefulAmericanFoundation.com.
Press Release: The Future of Bitcoin
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Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs, founder
Inkandescent Public Relations, www.inkandescentpr.com
email: hope@inkandescentpr.com
cell: 703-346–6975
Washington, DC, April 17, 2015 — “The virtual currency Bitcoin is a mere speculative bubble, or it’s a force set to transform the financial world, depending on whom one asks,” says Michael Vidikan, president of the research organization Future in Focus. “Bitcoin is clearly in its early stages and its future is still unclear.”
How does Bitcoin work? Created in 2009 as a decentralized, peer-to-peer currency system, the anonymous programmer of the currency designed it so that no banks or governments were involved in transactions, which could be anonymous.
Will We All Be Using Bitcoin in the Future?
Vidikan believes there are three potential scenarios for Bitcoin:
- The status quo — meaning its current marginal existence continues.
- Outright suppression by governments.
- Success as a mainstream currency.
Press Release: The Taxman Cometh — And He Is Sure to Come Again
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Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs, founder
Inkandescent Public Relations, www.inkandescentpr.com
email: hope@inkandescentpr.com
cell: 703-346–6975
Washington, DC, April 17, 2015 — Yes, April 15 has come and gone, with most of us closing the books on 2014 for good. But savvy small-business owners will use this milestone to identify what needs to be fixed or changed — before April 15 next year.
Sure, filing taxes can be stressful, even emotionally painful. But as any business strategist knows, the ability to manage money is the key to small-business success.
So in the April 2015 issue of Be Inkandescent magazine. we offer some financial food for thought.
Press Release: Howard Pressman Explains the Facts of Paying for College
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Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs, founder
Inkandescent Public Relations, www.inkandescentpr.com
Email: hope@inkandescentpr.com
Cell: 703-346–6975
Washington, DC, April 17, 2015 — “Much has been written about the cost of a college education and the debt burden being placed on our children,” says Pressman, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Practitioner with Egan, Berger & Weiner, LLC.
“According to the Wall Street Journal, today’s grads are saddled with, on average, $33,000 in student loans — nearly twice the amount of just 20 years ago. Start factoring in advanced degrees or more expensive schools, and you can see how the cost can quickly spiral out of control,” he explains.
Pressman notes that 2014 college graduates have the dubious distinction of carrying the highest student loan debt in history.
What can you do to keep this from happening to your kids?
Gabriella Ostini, Intern Spring 2015
Gabriella Ostini was born in a small suburb on the coast of Southern California. She now attends Virginia Commonwealth University as a Sophomore in the Painting and Printmaking department.
Gabriella plans to combine her love for History and the Art World by minoring in Art History.
“After graduation I hope to work in a curatorial position for a museum or gallery, along with continuing my studio practice,” she shares. “I am very excited for this experience working at Inkandescent Public Relations, and to learn throughout it and meet new and interesting people!”
Jacob Woisard, Intern Spring 2015
Jacob Woisard is a sophomore majoring in economics at Virginia Commonwealth University. He is primarily interested in behavioral economics and data analysis, and would like to eventually work as an economic consultant. Through working at Inkandescent PR, Jacob is is looking forward to advancing his knowledge and skill set in the business world.
Anna Gibbs, Intern Spring 2015
Anna Gibbs, daughter of Hope Katz Gibbs, is a second-year at the VCU School of the Arts majoring in photography and film with a concentration in photography.
Inspired by her parents who both own their own companies, she hopes to eventually own a photography studio in New York City. She currently assists with the photography and video aspect of Inkandescent, and works closely with the InkandescentTV and Inkandescent Radio teams.
Jonathan Nichols, Intern Spring 2015
Jonathan Nichols is a junior at Virginia Commonwealth University where he is majoring in Public Relations and minoring in both General Business and Professional Writing. He has been interning at Inkandescent Public Relations since November of 2014, helping to promote the Inkandescent Speakers Bureau and “PR Rules: The Playbook”. Jonathan will be studying abroad in the fall of 2015 at East China Normal University and will return to VCU to complete his degree in the spring of 2016.
Eurah Lee, Intern Spring 2015
“El universo habla mejor que el hombre,” wrote José Martí in his poem “Dos Patrias”. The translation: “The universe speaks better than man”.
Eurah Jessica Lee finds hope in this inexplicable world through her independent explorations of people, places, and languages. She is a Korean-American broadcast journalism student at Virginia Commonwealth University. Within the past four years, she has lived in three different countries and learned two new languages – Spanish and Mandarin.
“Being raised by a single mother, I was naturally inclined to explore for something more. Something like the Annapurna Base Camp of the Himalayas in Nepal,” she shares. It took her 7 days, a backpack, and Etta James’ “My Funny Valentine”.
Aside from her academics, internship, and part-time job, Eurah enjoys creating documentaries of her new experiences as she finds pure satisfaction only when getting herself out of life or death situations. “Who wants an easy life anyways? It’s boring.”
Press Release: Michael Egan Gives Us 3 Financial Planning Rules of Thumb
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Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs, founder
Inkandescent Public Relations, www.inkandescentpr.com
Email: hope@inkandescentpr.com
Cell: 703-346–6975
Washington, DC, March 6, 2015 — “When it comes to taking control of your financial future, having a handle on a few basic rules of thumb is the key to success,” believes CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Michael Egan, a partner at Egan, Berger & Weiner, LLC.
Last year was a great year for large-cap US stocks (the S&P 500) — the index was up 13.7 percent — yet many individuals are wondering why their portfolios did not come close to that rate of return.
“My clients want to know whether they should be more aggressive, and whether they should get rid of bonds or international stocks,” says Egan.
Before doing anything, keep in mind these 3 Financial Planning Rules of Thumb:
Press Release: Lisa Hughes Tells Us 6 Ways to Empower Ourselves With a Power of Attorney
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Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs, founder
Inkandescent Public Relations, www.inkandescentpr.com
Email: hope@inkandescentpr.com
Cell: 703-346–6975
Washington, DC, March 6, 2015 — “Are you confused about the concept of giving someone a Power of Attorney (POA)?” asks Lisa Hughes, an attorney and partner at Yates Campbell & Hoeg LLP.
In fact, it has nothing to do with delegating power to a lawyer or an attorney-at-law, she explains.
What it is: A POA is a legal document in which we name another person to make legally binding financial decisions for us.
How it works: The person delegating authority using the POA is known as the principal, and the person chosen to make decisions on behalf of the principal is the agent. The principal dictates the scope of the authority that is granted as well as the time when the authority becomes effective. The principal can later withdraw the grant of authority. As with any legally binding relationship, each party has duties as well as rights. In sum, the POA is a special type of contract.
What you need to know: There are a number of concepts to keep in mind when considering the type of authority you would include — and sometimes, choose not to include — in a POA.
Follow these 6 tips from Hughes to empower yourself with a Power of Attorney:
Press Release: How Truly Amazing Women Are Changing the World in 2015
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Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs, founder
Inkandescent Public Relations, www.inkandescentpr.com
email: hope@inkandescentpr.com
cell: 703-346–6975
Washington, DC, March 6, 2015 — More than half of American women are the breadwinners in their households, but women still earn 77 cents for every dollar a man earns.
Does that frustrate you? You aren’t alone.
What can you do about it?
For starters, pick up Sheryl Sandberg’s best-seller, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead. In this easy-to-read primer on how to lean in, the Facebook COO provides additional data and research into why women have a hard time making more money, getting promotions, and seizing opportunities — along with 10 tips on how to reverse the trend.
Sandberg can’t make all these changes alone, knows Hope Katz Gibbs, founder and publisher of Be Inkandescent magazine. So in the March 2015 issue, she shines a light on dozens of women who are leaning in.
Click here to read about how 12 professional business women are leaning in.
Press Release: Mount Vernon's Curt Viebranz Tells Us About Martha and George Washington
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Contact: Hope Katz Gibbs, founder
Inkandescent Public Relations, www.inkandescentpr.com
Email: hope@inkandescentpr.com
Cell: 703-346–6975
Washington, DC, March 6, 2015 — When the sun would set along the Potomac River, George and Martha Washington could sometimes be found sipping cocktails on the veranda of their Virginia home.
What would it have been like to sit there with them, considering the politics, challenges, and issues of the day?
This month, David Bruce Smith, founder of Grateful American™ TV, and co-host Hope Katz Gibbs sit out on the porch where the Washingtons spent so many evenings — thanks to Curt Viebranz, president and CEO of George Washington’s Mount Vernon.
“When the home was originally built in the early 1730s, it was called Little Huntington Creek,” Viebranz explains. “Washington’s half-brother, Lawrence, renamed the estate Mount Vernon, in recognition of the incredible view here by the promontory, and also in tribute to Admiral Vernon, whom he served under in the US Navy.”
Did you know that Lawrence died in his early 30s of tuberculosis? “And because none of his and his wife’s four children survived childhood, when his widow died, George Washington ultimately inherited the house from her. It was Washington who built the home we see here now.”
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