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Sergeant, United States Army (Ret)
Veteran Success Story – from Combat Medic to Pharmacist

Sentinel Okechukwu “Oke” Dibiar is no stranger to walking a tough path to attain his goals. He immigrated to the United States from Nigeria when he was eighteen years old. Oke’s dream was to help others and he chose to do this by serving his new country as a combat medic in the U.S. Army. He was forced to retire from the Army due to severe PTSD, but Oke knew he still wanted to continue to help people and serve others, especially veterans.

Before his enlistment, he had completed his bachelors’ degree in Biology from the Southern University at New Orleans, Louisiana, and he began building on his degree with his experience as a medic to become a pharmacist. His education benefits from his military service, however, would run out before he would be able to complete his Doctorate of Pharmacy from Appalachian College of Pharmacy.

With his wife in nursing school, and a two-year-old son, keeping a roof over their head while he finished his degree weighed heavily on Oke. As fate would have it, he found out about Sentinels of Freedom and was accepted into our program. With the support he received from SOF, including financial assistance and financial coaching, he was able to complete his degree. The program culminated in six clinical rotations, each six weeks long, all over the states of Kentucky and Virginia.

Oke is now preparing to take his licensing board exams and realize his goal of working as a pharmacist at a Department of Veterans Affairs facility. His new journey is finally beginning.

Upon deciding to plan a couple of family camping trips to Pinecrest Lake, I needed to secure a vehicle that could transport us and all of our camping gear—not an easy task. The first trip started off with a group of three adults and one 10-year-old, followed by an over-nighter with just my 10-year-old son. Our choice of vehicle was the 2018 Ford Expedition Max Platinum edition. On both adventures, the Expedition was amazing!

Trip one, with the third row of seats powered in their down position we had a wealth of cargo space to easily address the needs of our over-packed equipment and supplies. Even with tents, sleeping bags, fishing equipment, beach provisions, chairs, and food, we still had plenty of room—and comfort, too. My son was thrilled that the Platinum setup came equipped with dual rear-seat DVD players. My fellow front-seat companion and I felt animated with the heat/cooling front seats with a back and bottom massaging feature. I sure put it through its paces!

Trip two, being a quick one, my son and I decided to ditch the tent and instead move our supplies to the front seat and layout the air mattress in the back after reclining the second and third row of seats. We pulled back the screen from the Panoramic Vista Roof® and stared at the stars until we fell asleep.

Pricing and Trims
For 2018, Ford Expedition is available in three trim levels XLT 2WD ($52.985) and 4WD ($55,995),Limited2WD ($63,870) and 4WD ($66,995), and Platinum2WD ($74,225) and 4WD ($77,370). A longer version called the Expedition Max comes in the same three trim levels XLT 2WD ($55,670) and 4WD ($58,680), Limited2WD ($66,560) and 4WD ($69,685), and Platinum2WD ($76,915) and 4WD ($80,060).

What’s new for 2018?
The Ford Expedition has been fully redesigned for 2018 with a more modern exterior and updated interior with new features. The extended-length Expedition is now called the Max and has an expanded wheelbase of over 9-inches and overall length of almost 12-inches. Ford has increased the horsepower on the EcoBoost® V6 and introduced a new 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers the best-in-class towing of up to 9,300 pounds. Ford calls the 2018 Ford Expedition “the smartest, most capable, most adaptable Expedition ever.” It features a lightweight, high-strength, all-aluminum-alloy body that rides on a high-strength steel frame.

Interior Highpoints
The interior of the Expedition is clean, comfortable and full of options. My test vehicle was the 2018 Ford Expedition Max Platinum and had more technical features than my house. The Drive Mode selector is operated by turning a knurled round knob located in the center console. No large shifter needed. The center dash/infotainment screen is easy to operate the radio, phone, navigation, apps, radio volume/tuning and heat-air controls. My test vehicle also had a 110-volt plug and radio and heating/controls in the second- row seating area. It had plenty of storage and USB connections, as well as a phone-charging platform, self-parking, dual-glove boxes, dual-screen DVD player in the front head rest, 360-degree backup camera, and heated/cooling front seats.

Exterior Highlights
The exterior leans more toward Ford’s crossover lineup verses the F-150 pickup truck that it is based on. Think big brother design features of the Ford Explorer. The All-new Expedition looks beautiful and stylish and doesn’t project the typical boxy-big SUV feel of its competitors. Its shape is clean and cohesive with a modern feel. The panoramic sunroof brings the outside in. At 210-inches long and 221.9-inches with the MAX version, the 2018 Expedition is a very big vehicle, yet delivers a smooth, confident ride.

Performance Specs
Performance is impressive with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder that generates 400 horsepower and 480 pounds of torque in the Platinum and 375 horsepower and 470 pounds of torque in the XLT and Limited models. The engine is mated to Ford’s new 10-speed SelectShift® (yes, that is correct) automatic transmission. The Expedition and Expedition MAX are both available in 2WD and 4WD driver configurations.

Cool Features:
• Power third row seat up/down feature

• Back and Bottom-massaging (optional feature)

• Multiple USB outlets

• New Sync Connect adds a Wi-Fi hotspot

• Enough room to comfortably sleep in!

Safety Integrity
The 2018 Ford Expedition has a long checklist of safety features. Starting with a three-point safety belts for all seating positions, AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™, Airbags – Dual-stage front and front-seat side, Airbags – three-row Safety Canopy® System with side-curtain airbags and rollover sensor, Belt-Minder® front safety belt reminder, Brakes – 4-wheel disc with Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), Individual tire pressure monitoring system (excludes spare), LATCH – Lower Anchors and Tether Anchors for Children, Perimeter alarm, Rearview camera with washer, SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad, SecuriLock® Passive Anti-Theft System, SOS Post-Crash Alert System™, Traction control, and Trailer sway control.

In Summary The 2018 Ford Expedition and Expedition MAX are great family vehicles for those who either have lots of family or lots of gear or need a place to sleep! With its new updated appearance, power engine, and a plethora of safety and technology features, the all-new Expedition is ready for any challenge. It can get pricey and escalates fast, so it’s not for every budget. If, however, $50K to $80K is the range you are shopping in, then the 2018 Ford Expedition should be on your shopping list. This Ford is built to impress, and it does!

Specifications
2018 Ford Expedition MAX 4WD

Base price: $80,060 as driven: N/A(including destination & optional features)
Engine: V6, EcoBoost, 3.5 Liter
Horsepower: 400hp@ 5000 RPM
Torque: 480 lb.-ft.@ 3250 RPM
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Drive: Rear-Wheel Drive
Seating: 6-passenger
Cargo space: 121.5 cubic feet
Curb weight: 5,793pounds
EPA mileage: City 16/Hwy 21/Comb 18 MPG
Fuel Capacity: 28.3 gallons
Turning Circle: 43.3 ft.
Wheel Base: 131.6inches
Warranty: 3 years/36,000-miles
Also consider: Cadillac Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, Infiniti QX, Lincoln Navigator

Summer is in full swing and the weather is warm and balmy. Friends and family are in a festive mood and good wine is being poured. What’s in your glass?

Finding the perfect wine to savor over the summer months shouldn’t be difficult. Simply take your cues from an icy glass of lemonade. The coolness of the drink and the high acid of the lemon juice bring instant enjoyment and refreshment. On a hot day, there’s nothing better. The same is true with wine. The best summer wines are served slightly chilled and have a refreshing zing of acid on the palate.

The full-bodied, rich wines sipped during the colder months of winter often seem heavy and unappealing in the height of summer, kind of like wearing a heavy wool coat to the beach. Lighten up a little and choose wines that were created to be consumed young and fresh. Their cool refreshing flavors will brighten up any summer festivity and bring a smile to your face.

Rosé is arguably the most popular kid in town when the temperatures rise. The good ones boast floral aromas, medium to high acid, and flavors of strawberries or watermelon with a hint of spice. Rosé often has a slight tannic grip, as it is produced from red wine grapes, and pairs nicely with roast chicken, pork or beef.

There are many good rosés to be had from almost every corner of the world. Seek out tasty bottles from France, Spain, and Italy as well as Australia, South Africa, and our own California. These are not expensive wines. Quaffable rosé can be found for under $10, and the very best rosés top out at about $50. If you want to taste a fine rosé to give yourself a strong basis for comparison, try a Bandol or Domaine Ott from France. These wonderful, finely crafted rosé wines are truly memorable.

Nothing beats a crisp white wine on a steamy afternoon. Vermentino hails from the island of Sardinia off the coast of Southern Italy. The very most celebrated versions of this wine are Vermentino di Sardegna and Vermentino di Gallura. Vermentino offers a lovely floral nose and a palate of fresh white peaches. The wine has a pleasant minerality with flavors of Mediterranean herbs and a slight tang of sea salt. Vermentino is a medium bodied wine with medium acid and is delicious on its own or served with seafood and pasta. Now grown all over the world, Vermentino is gaining in popularity and many lovely examples are grown right here in The Golden State.

Light to medium bodied red wine can be fabulous in the summer months. If you’re a red wine enthusiast looking for a new favorite, try a Barbera d’Asti, slightly chilled. The barbera grape hails from Northern Italy and is famous for its production in the little mountain town of Asti. Barbera is high in acid with a juicy palate of bright red cherries. This refreshing wine should be served lightly chilled and is a natural companion to meats and sausages as well as pastas and classic Italian fare. Like Vermentino, Barbera is now produced in many parts of the world and rapidly gaining in popularity.

Summer is an ideal time to travel and explore different regions of the world. But if your schedule doesn’t permit you to jet off to parts unknown, allow yourself to explore wines from around the globe. A glass of wine is the perfect way to visit the land and culture of another country without ever leaving the comfort of your home. Happy travels! And cheers!

I’m a firm believer that patients get the best care when they and their doctors have a mutually respectful relationship with genuine affinity for each other. When you like someone you naturally want the best for them regardless of the social or professional dynamics. As physicians we chose the medical field not only because it interests us but also because we enjoy being able to help others with that knowledge. I experience the patient encounter as so much more enjoyable and feel even more invested in their success if I also enjoy who they are as individuals. I hope that the patient, in return, also has a good experience in my office because they are appreciated.

I frequently hear patients’ remarks such as “I don’t care if s(he)’s nice or not, I just want someone who knows what they’re doing.” Although I understand the sentiment, a physician is and always should be more than a technician of medical information and treatments. We are “healers” and should display specific characteristics such as compassion and warmth, in addition to intelligence and competence. Unfortunately, I also sometimes hear that a patient would rather see their physician assistant instead of the doctor. I believe the reason for this is that the physician assistant either has a better personal connection with the patient or has spent more time and effort developing rapport and being the empathetic caregiver.

I personally make an effort to display respect and appreciation for everyone who comes into the office. I know that everyone’s time is important so I try my best to not be late for each appointment. I believe that every person should understand their doctor’s rationale and treatment recommendations so I spend time on educating a patient about their particular health concerns and inform them of treatment options. I appreciate that I am a stranger to most people when they come to my office, but yet they are willing to trust me with their most valuable possession—themselves.

Sometimes, personality differences cause a rift in the physician-patient relationship and although this is the fault of no one, it can affect communication and therefore the quality of medical care. For example, I enjoy laughing with my patients. I tend to see the lighter side of a situation and this might not jibe with the person who is looking for a doctor who is more staid. Alternatively, if a physician is more reserved, a patient could mistake that trait as a sign of impersonal distance or distraction.

I realize that people feel obligated to see a particular physician or medical group that is in their insurance plan or they heed the recommendation of their primary care physician or a friend, but everyone has a choice. The best choice is a physician who listens to you, makes you feel important and comfortable, and of course demonstrates and communicates competence in the area that you are seeking treatment for.

You’re trying to make up your mind whether you want to see it or not, right? Hopefully, I can help you with that!

Take your sweater out of the hall closet, put on your comfy shoes and have a seat. Did I mention that all the while you’re making yourself at home you are softly chatting with the children who are sitting in front of their televisions, just waiting for their daily visit with you, their friend, Mister Rogers?

I have to say that as a busy Mom, I barely noticed Fred Rogers. I just knew that when he came on the TV, my kids sat down and were mostly sweet, quiet little angels. Did I ever question that? Absolutely not, but neither did I seem to have the time to figure out what was going on between Mister Rogers and his wee friends.

I am thoroughly disgusted with television today. I could broaden that statement to media in general but for today television is broad enough. I was out of state last week on a combination business trip with a family visit added in. When I left California, I accidentally left my cell phone in my car. I was finally able to get a friend to retrieve and overnight the “thing” but by the time I finally received it I think I had passed through my withdrawals for a stage amazingly like euphoria.

Let’s go back to Mister Rogers. This amazing film about the life and career of the one and only Fred Rogers is not to be missed. Academy Award winning filmmaker, Morgan Neville brings us this intimate and compelling look at America’s favorite neighbor. A simple portrait of a man who had a passion for children and a gentle soul that just connected with them.

Fred Rogers was not afraid to approach tough, serious subjects that children generally don’t have the tools to process. In his years on TV he developed episodes on divorce, death, assassination and even racial integration. It’s a neighborhood of a lot more daring messages than you probably remembered. He gave these little ones answers they needed, in a way they could understand. Answers other adults in their lives weren’t capable of articulating because of the pain of the tragedy.

After the unimaginable terror of 9/11, Rogers was brought back out of retirement for a period of time. While so many were still emotionally traumatized from the constant barrage of visual images on TV, Fred Rogers was doing his best to explain to our precious children about life and death.

Fred Rogers almost single handedly saved the government funding for PBS! He was kind. He was gentle but he was always defending the children he cared about so very much.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the ratings this film garnered. Rotten Tomatoes has a 99% Critics Rating and a 97% Fan Rating. As long as I’ve been watching ratings, I have never encountered numbers that high. Take this opportunity to step back to a kinder gentler time. Won’t You Be My Neighbor? has left the theaters so watch for it on DVD or streaming, hopefully in the near future. As always, I welcome your comments at Carolyn@carolynhastings.com.

My favorite all time movie star was Humphrey Bogart. Many of you may not know him, but he had a 15 year run unmatched by anyone. Let’s see if you can deal with a few “Bogie” questions.

1. Bogie began his movie career in 1936 playing Duke Mantee, a runaway gangster, holing up in the Black Mesa Barbecue with Bette Davis and Leslie Howard. What was the name of this film, based on a Broadway play?

2. He then spent the rest of the 30s playing gangsters, a version of Mantee, being shot down by Edward G. Robinson or James Cagney. This changed for good when he was cast as the lead in a film where he played a sympathetic ex-con with Ida Lupino, pulling one last job. He is shot on top of Mt. Whitney. What is the name of that flick?

3. He hit his stride in 1941, when he made The Maltese Falcon, possibly the first film noir. He played a shrewd private detective on the search of the killer of his partner. What is his name in that memorable movie?

4. He became a romantic leading man in 1943 in one of America’s favorite movies, Casablanca. It was just another movie when it was made, but America has loved it ever since. Bogie does a great job as a cynic and a sufferer of lost love. He owns a bar in the title city. His piano player plays their song of love throughout the film. What was that song?

5. My favorite all time movie is Treasure of the Sierra Madre which featured Bogie as a grifter in Mexico seeking gold in the hills. One of the most famous scenes features a Mexican bandit attempting to convince Bogie’s group that they are Federales. What is the head bandit’s reply when Bogie asks them to show their badges?

6. Bogie never won an Academy Award until 1951 when he played a gin soaked captain of a leaking boat on an African river in The African Queen. His shipmate was a prudish minister’s sister, who falls in love with him and convinces him to sink a German ship during WWII. They do it. What famous movie actress played his lady love?

Feeling A Little Groovy?
This fall the fun and exciting trends are leaning towards the 70s vibes, from subdued lip colors to flushed pink cheeks, with high pigment cream eyeshades of soft gold pinks and mesmerizing taupe’s, to ultrachic color eyeliners. These quick moves will instantly take your look up a notch and capture the seasons most sought after looks, just in time for fall!

Modern Radiance
In this time of transparent modernity, natural radiance and multi-dimensional luminosity highlighters capture the season with sheer color illuminators, giving the skin an unparalleled photo-reflective quality. Like a drop of sunshine, these new highlighters deliver natural looking warmth to give the skin that all-over glow and radiance, ideal for fall’s new looks.

Healthy Interest
So you finally found that perfect foundation color….and then the season changes and your skin tone loses color. Bridge that August-to-September divide with a new updated, custom blend, to keep you perfectly on track. It’s all about that base this season, keeping your skin looking flawless, youthful and current. Nothing’s worse than having a dark foundation while your neck is a lighter shade. Dark foundation lines around the jaw line are not a pretty site, so keep it smart and updated and keep your complexion looking pretty, with a perfectly-blended custom foundation.

Magic Touch
Perfect symmetry has long been the focus of conventional ideas about beauty. But sometimes a little imbalance can be straight-up stunning. This fall, it’s more captivating with the addition of sophisticated, pressed pigments that deliver intense color, magnificent shimmer, and dramatic shading. Begin your look with a thin layer of crease-proof concealer stick to ensure longer-lasting eye shadow control. Use a gradient cream color eye shade of gleaming light taupe or soft purple gray a key, in achieving dimension and definition, while layering a pinky gold color to add warmth, keeping a fall style look, “on-trend.” The mix of warm and cool tones with a pinky-gold hue works on a wide variety of eye colors and skin tones. These subtle beauty delights will enhance your cosmetic wardrobe and capture “the look” this season.

More to Love
Inspired by nature, the new modern liquid lipstick formulas have long-lasting power, designed to plump and smooth lips, while delivering even coverage and a creamy velvety finish. Keep lips in place with a new lip liner stain that matches your lip shade. Lip liner stains not only even out lip color, they give them a bold fullness, while you can also create an otherworldly dimensionality statement.

The Rouge color professionals will be offering Fall Trend Make-Overs starting August 15. Discover all the new and exciting trends of the season, while having an amazing make-over to update your beauty wardrobe and give you that modern girl vibe. Go be lovely, while giving yourself a little self-care. After all, self care equals confidence and self-assurance.