December 2007 Newsletter

Coach's Corner

First, let me wish you all great health and happiness during the holiday season and all through the New Year. There is plenty to cover in this December issue of the Red Power Divas Newsletter – from New Diva Chapters to Post-Season Training to Upcoming Events – so please read on… and I’ll see you on the trail!

Red Power Divas & Building Peaceful Families

In 2004, I founded the non-profit organization Building Peaceful Families (BPF). BPF is dedicated to helping families develop and maintain violence-free homes through educating targeted populations and through hosting special events to celebrate the value of a healthy lifestyle and responsible parenting. The Red Power Divas group is a part of the Building Peaceful Families organization.

Holiday Adopt-a-Family: BPF has adopted a very deserving family-in-need for the 2007 holiday season. The attachment describes this family’s needs in greater detail. I am sure that many of you are giving a lot during this holiday season; however, if you could open your hearts and donate an item to our adopted family -- even something as simple as a roll of toilet paper (a purchase that many of us take for granted) -- it would be truly appreciated. Please contact me via Diva email to make a donation.

New Diva Chapters

I am happy to announce that we’ve added two new local chapters to our growing Diva family – one in Fremont and the other in Pacifica. Welcome new Divas and Divos!

Fremont Chapter: Diva Julie L is our newest Support Coach for the Red Power Divas Fremont Chapter. Julie has recruited three new Divas -- Megan J, Jill G and Callie G -- who have started their off-season training. Anyone living in the Fremont area who is interested in joining the local Divas chapter, please email Julie.

Pacifica Chapter: Divo Leo R and Diva Virginia R have formed the new Red Power Divas Pacifica Chapter. Leo and Virginia are great role models. In conjunction with leading the RPD Pacifica Chapter, they’ve also founded the Skyline College Runners Club. Anyone living in the Pacifica area who is interested in joining the local Divas chapter, please email Leo.

Happy Birthday Divas!

Wishing a very happy birthday to all of the following December Divas:

12/2: Rita Z
12/5: Karla E
12/9: Virginia M
12/15: Karen H, Jennifer G, Sharon C
12/16: Nancy H, Donna B
12/18: Gay K
12/19: Callie G
12/21: Kathy T, Courtnay C, Rocio M, Virginia R
12/23: Linda D
12/25: Deborah R, Mary R
12/27: Virginia M, Lisa L
12/29: Lucinda R
12/31: Kaleolan C

Diva Spotlight

One Person Can Make a Difference: Diva Christine H

Our fabulous Diva Christine H has the December Diva Spotlight shining on her face. Christine is a wonderful example of how one person doing one small thing can make a BIG difference.

Christine has been a Deputy District Attorney for twenty years, with eight of those years assigned to the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Dependency Unit. Lawyers on this unit represent children who have been neglected or abused by their parents or caregivers. The District Attorney’s office has a contract with the County of Santa Clara to represent these children. Christine loves working on this Unit because it gives her the opportunity to help children in small but significant ways.

On December 6, 2007, Christine sent out this email to a handful of people hoping to get a few letters of support:

Dear Friends,

The Board of Supervisors is going to decide whether to terminate the District Attorney’s contract on Tuesday, December 11th. If any of you feel so inclined to write them a letter on the District Attorney's behalf that would be great. You can just talk about the DA's work representing children based on what you know about me and my work. It can be simple and just stress that foster children deserve quality attorneys and money shouldn't be an issue. Plus, we have relationships with our clients that shouldn't be severed. And we have resources that no other firm can offer. We care and have cared for over 20 years.

Email sent out on December 12, 2007:

Hi Friends,

First, thank you all for spending your valuable time writing letters on behalf of the attorneys who represent children in Santa Clara County. I have amazing news.

Today, the Board of Supervisors voted (4 to 1) to let the DA's finish our contract representing abused and neglected children in Santa Clara County. The contract ends in July of 2009. I think I need to stress how unbelievable this is because as of 2 days ago we were told that the entire board had decided to vote in favor of early termination of the contract. In fact, the issue was on calendar today to simply vote to terminate (a calendar for issues where the Board has made a decision).

But instead, a miracle happened. They took it off that calendar at the last minute and put it on the calendar for discussion. Two people spoke on our behalf. First, the DA, Dolores C, argued why it wouldn't serve our kids to terminate early. She did a terrific job and I am so proud of her. Then, the president of the Foster Parent Association spoke. She spoke about the children and the foster parents who take care of them, feed them, clothe them, love them until their parents can reunify with them...or not. She talked about the attorneys who have long standing relationships with these kids and how were are the only ones who care and listen to foster parents. The board voted. They voted not to terminate.

There were well over 200 letters sent to the Board over the last couple of days!!! I am so proud of you guys for doing this. And for the wonderful, wonderful foster parents for stepping up to the plate. It actually worked. Thank you all so much.

But here is the best part. Today was our dependency team Christmas lunch. We were all pretty sad and down in the dumps. Not a lot of spirit. A noon I was slowly walking into the conference room where our wonderful staff had prepared this beautiful lunch. I was stopped by my secretary who said there was a call. At first, I said, no I am going to the lunch. Everyone else was wandering in also. She said that I had to take the call, it was Rolanda. (Diva Rolanda PD is an Assistant District Attorney.) I said OK. Well, Rolanda was very excited. She told me that minutes before noon, the board voted to keep us. I started screaming to the team. It was a sight to see. People were crying, hugging each other, grabbing the phone in disbelief. What a wonderful Christmas gift. So many members of the team had been praying and, in fact, had their entire church congregation praying. It was a miracle. Trust me, we were told, there was no chance… no chance.

Needless to say, our Christmas lunch was much happier after that. We know we have only bought ourselves another year and a half. The board has made it clear that when the contract expires in 2009, they will not pay anymore of their share to keep us. But now we can look at grants, etc., to find other ways to pay the money the county has been paying for the last 25 years. And worst scenario we will stop representing kids, but at least we will have time to do a decent transition and not just be put in a situation where we have to dump our kids into another lawyers lap with in a few short months. I have some clients that I have represented since infancy and they know me and trust me and rely on me. These kids are moved from foster home to foster home, from school to school, from relative to relative...and none of it is really their fault. The one thing that is consistent is their lawyer. So, this way, we can at least do the transition with dignity.

Thank you all for your help. I was told that it was the letters that made a difference. You have all made this a wonderful Christmas for many kids who have one less thing to worry about in their troubled lives.

- Chris

Divas Active in the Post-Season

Although it’s officially “off-season” for the Red Power Divas, we’ve still had a few opportunities to get together, put on our racing shoes, and hit the trail. The following is a summary of recent activities and a list of the Divas and Divos who participated.

Applied Materials Turkey Trot: More than 20 Divas started Thanksgiving Day with a burst of fitness by participating in the 3^rd Annual Applied Materials Turkey Trot. This was a great event for the whole family… over 6,000 people participated! There were eight different races for participants to select from, including a 5K and 10K run through downtown San Jose and the beautiful Guadalupe River Park Trail. In addition to cheering on the Divas in the 5K and 10K, the two most exciting races of the day were the “Kids Fun Run” for children ages two through nine and the “Elite Athlete 5K” featuring some of the fastest runners in the world with a prize purse of $19,700.

Diva participants included: Sandra W; Mariam G; Anita O; Diana O; Virginia R; Leo R; Peggy L; Jamal L (Peggy’s 15-year-old son); Kristin P; Michele P; Susan H (and her three adult children); Mary R; Elaine V; Amanda V Beth D Rita Z (and her daughter and nephew); Christine H; Cindy L; Rolanda P,D; Genavae P D; Emily B; Kendra B; Linda A (and her entire family) husband Tony, and their two children.

Stanford Habitat for Humanity – Personal Best! Diva participants included: Rhonda H; Nancy B; Sandra W; Mariam G; Carrie I; Anita O; Diana O; Virginia R; Leo R; Peggy L; Jamal L (Peggy’s 15-year-old son); Jennifer V; Debbie K; Karen H; Jody C; Marla J; Pam C; Jennifer G; Karla E; Kristin P; Michele P; Susan H(and her daughter); Beth D; Lucinda R and K. H

U.S. Half Marathon San Francisco: Divo Leo R and Diva Virginia R ran the U.S. Half Marathon in San Francisco on November 4th. Leo completed the half marathon in 1:49.47 and Virginia ran the 5K in 1:09.41.

Diva Shirts

If you are interested in ordering a fabulous Diva shirt, they will be available on the first and third Saturday of each month at Campbell Park (Los Gatos Creek Trail), our off-season training meeting place. Shirts are available in your choice of short-sleeve (red) or long-sleeve (white). You can also contact Sharon C to make special arrangements at the diva email address.

Upcoming Race Event: Run for a Healthy World

Date: January 1, 2008 (Tuesday)

Location: Palo Alto Baylands Athletic Center, 1900 Geng Road, Palo Alto, CA

Time: 10K starts at 9:30 a.m.; 5K run/walk starts at 10:00 a.m.

Course: Flat and fast over Baylands levees and through the marsh lands on mostly dirt roads. Male and female race divisions in 10-year increments with awards three deep.

Cost: $30

If you participated in the Stanford Home Run Habitat for Humanity Race, as thanks for supporting two races created by World Runners, when you register online before December 21 enter code HOMERUN08 to receive a $5 discount on your registration. Race entry fees and sponsor donations will benefit the charitable programs of World Runners internationally and the Second Harvest Food Bank locally. World Runners strives to end hunger and poverty in the world. Its principal supported programs are the education of young women in Eastern Africa and providing microcredit for the poor in Central America.

Divas Off-Season Maintenance Plan: Take a Break!

After a very hard Diva season, it may be time to take a break from training. Top trainers recommend a period of no running/walking to give your body a break from impact and provide much-needed repair time. Forgetting about running for a few weeks is like hitting the reset button. You come back stronger -- mentally and physically -- and the benefits of a break go beyond the physical. Resting gives your mind a break, helping to prevent staleness and boredom. The key to success in 2008 is to know when to back off.

But Don't Get Lazy…Reunite with Your Running Shoes: Taking a break after a hard season is absolutely necessary; however, no movement at all can result in tight muscles and lost fitness. A balance of days off and active recovery workouts is critical. It's about movement. If you have not walked or run for several weeks, it is time to get started. Getting started may mean walking for 15-30 minutes three days a week. The key is consistency and movement. If you stash your running shoes in the back of your closet until next spring, you'll set yourself back farther than you might think. Research indicates that for every week you take off, it takes two weeks to regain fitness. You have invested too much in your training to start from scratch!

Self-Improve: After you've been running/walking consistently again for two weeks, you may resume harder workouts. The maintenance plan includes an increase in mileage and intervals or tempo runs at least once a week. The off-season is a great time to focus on building your base, recovering from injuries, and improving areas of weakness (e.g., proper form). Our off-season training workouts enable you to maintain fitness without pushing too hard, leaving you fresh and sharp for the 2008 Diva season.

Coaches Available First and Third Saturday at Campbell Park: To support your off-season training, Coaches are available for training assistance on the first and third Saturday of each month. We meet at Campbell Park at 7:30 a.m. This off-season training is an excellent opportunity for Divas to reconnect and train together.

Off-Season Training Schedule: December/January

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
12/10	12/11	12/12	12/13	12/14	12/15	12/16
EASY 45-60 min. or 2-3 miles + stretch	Recovery; cross train 30-60 min	EASY 45-60 min. or 2-3 miles + stretch	EASY 45-60 min. or 2-3 miles + stretch	REST	Long Distance: 75 min. or 5 miles + stretch	REST
12/17	12/18	12/19	12/20	12/21	12/22	12/23
EASY 45-60 min. or 2-3 miles + stretch	Recovery; cross train 30-60 min	EASY 45-60 min. or 2-3 miles + stretch	EASY 45-60 min. or 2-3 miles + stretch	REST	Long Distance: 75 min. or 5 miles + stretch	REST
12/24	12/25	12/26	12/27	12/28	12/29	12/30
EASY 45-60 min. or 2-3 miles + stretch	Recovery; cross train 30-60 min	EASY 45-60 min. or 2-3 miles + stretch	INTERVALS Easy 45 min. + 15 min. intervals + stretch	REST	Long Distance: 90 min. or 10K (6.2) miles + stretch	REST
12/31	1/1	1/2	1/3	1/4	1/5	1/6
EASY 45-60 min. or 2-3 miles + stretch	New Year’s Run For a Healthy World	REST	INTERVALS Easy 45 min. + 15 min. intervals + stretch	REST	Long Distance: 90 min. or 10K (6.2) miles + stretch	REST

Maintain a strong base by logging three walks/runs per week, including a tempo or interval session. Option: Run/walk by time rather than miles so your confidence won’t suffer if your pace slows due to the elements. Remember: warm-up and cool down with an easy 10 minutes.

Race If You Must: 5Ks and 10Ks are an ideal (and fun) way to keep your running/walking sharp during the off-season. We will be recommending a few 5K and 10K races for Diva team participation. To find a race, see: www.theschedule.com or www.active.com.

Nutrition Tip: Healthy Holiday Strategies

The key to getting through the holidays without gaining the typical 11 pounds is PLANNING! As they say, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Here are a few tips to help keep you healthy this holiday season:

General Strategies:

• Be aware of the frequency of potential holiday eating during the weeks ahead
• Mark your calendar with holiday eating events
• Make choices about which parties/dinners will be ‘vacation’ eating
• Allow yourself some fun, but be in charge of when and where

Parties:

• Drink 16 oz water and have a fistful of protein before leaving for the party
• Use a small plate and refill no more than once an hour
• Make 20% of your plate vacation food, 80% micronutrient-rich food
• When it comes to vacation foods, share with friends or cut servings in half
• If there is dancing, join in!

Holiday Dinners:

• Drink 16 oz of water before sitting down to eat

• Keep protein portions the size of the palm of your hand
• Bring a healthy dish to share with family and friends
• Indulge in the abundance of nutrient-rich foods that are available
• Savor each bite, chew each mouthful slowly
• Engage in conversation so your focus is not totally on your plate
• Pick 2 or 3 vacation foods and taste them rather than take a full portion of them
• Move around; go outdoors so you are not sitting around food

Alcohol:

• Eat before drinking
• Drink an 8 oz glass of water between drinks
• Choose soda or tonic water over mixers and fruit juices
• Don’t let other people fill your glass
• Keep track of how many you’ve had
• It’s OK not to drink alcohol at parties!

Work out!

• Do not miss your workouts!!
• Check your calendar ahead of time and reschedule workouts if you expect to miss one

To sum it all up… Plan Ahead and Thrive!

- Enid Fox

Director of Nutrition Services, Tempus Clinic (Los Gatos, CA)

Training Q&A

Q: I’ve heard that running/walking on an empty stomach will help me burn more fat. Is that true?

A: Running or walking on an empty stomach does increase the amount of fat calories burned, but this does not mean faster weight loss. When running/walking, you burn both carbs and fat. If you’re low on carbs, the body will kick in more stored fats for fuel; however, due to low energy, you may not run as hard or as long. Also, after you run, your metabolism may slow due to your semi-fasted state. All this translates into fewer total calories burned. The bottom line: eat a healthy snack! You’ll run better and burn more calories than if you are running on empty.

Q: How often can I cross train, instead of walking/running without losing running/walking fitness?

A: Replacing one or two weekly runs with other aerobic activities such as pool running, elliptical workouts, dancing, biking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing (for 30 to 45 minutes at a time) will give you a mental and physical break without compromising your walking/running fitness. Since these sports are low impact, you should perform the workouts at the same intensity as your typical run/walk. Keep in mind: cross training can help keep your overall fitness level high, but only running/walking makes you fit for running/walking.

Diva Communications

The wonderful and talented Divas within our network have created many forums through which we can all communicate. Please take advantage of the opportunities to stay connected, especially during the off-season.

Policy: To protect the confidentiality of all Divas (and unwanted emails), emailing the entire Diva network via mass emails is prohibited without express permission.

New Red Power Divas Website - www.redpowerdivas.org: Diva Heather S has designed and launched the new Red Power Divas website. This is a great source of information, including a 2008 Red Power Divas application and our off-season Training Schedule. If you have any comments about the website, please submit your feedback via Diva email address.

Red Power Divas Google Group – http://groups.google.com/group/redpowerdivas: Diva Sabrina F created the Red Power Divas Google Group. This is an excellent way to communicate with individual Divas or Divos, or communicate with the Diva Google network. The Diva Google Group is only available for Red Power Diva members; all Divas and Divos are encouraged to join. If you have filled out a Diva application, you will be invited to join the Google group. Sabrina F, who is also the Divas premier photographer, uses the Google Group to post all Diva photos.

Red Power Divas Blog: http://redpowerdivas.blogspot.com: Also created by Sabrina , the Red Power Divas blog is a wonderful source of information. You can access old RPD weekly summaries and training schedules on the blog.

Red Power Divas Email - Heather S has established the Red Power Divas email address for submitting questions and comments. For the 2008 season, new and returning Red Power Divas can submit their applications to this email address.

Important Reminders

2007 Divas Season Survey: I want to thank all those who have returned the Red Power Divas 2007 season review survey. The results of these surveys are extremely important and helpful as we plan for the 2008 training season. If you have not yet done so, please take the time to complete your survey as soon as possible (copy attached) and return it via email. THANK YOU!

2008 Divas Application: The 2007 season was exceptional… and it was only the beginning! We hope that you decide to join us for our 2008 training season. If you plan to participate in 2008, please fill out the attached application and return it via email or fax . We must have completed applications from all participants – even those who were part of the class of 2007.

Email List: All Red Power Divas email addresses from the 2007 season will be purged on January 1, 2008. If you do not intend to participate in 2008, but would like to remain on our email list, please let us know via email.

DIVA NEWSLETTER - OCTOBER 21 - 28

RED POWER DIVAS NEWSLETTER
OCTOBER 21-28, 2007

“Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty, well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out and loudly proclaiming ‘Wow! What a ride!’ “– author unknown

Red Power Divas at the San Jose Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon

Good to Take a Time-Out
After five months of training and the challenging Rock ‘n’ Roll half marathon, it was wise to take some time off. There was really no need to rush back out and start exercising again. You need to rest and allow all your muscles to recovery. You earned it. HOWEVER, if your body feels good, you may want to ease back into a routine of regular exercise. The off-season training program is designed to ease you back into a routine of walking or running. Other types of activities are also highly recommended. For many of you other activities will be a welcome change from the season routine. Off season calendar is attached.

Reminder: Research Fleshes out the Benefits of Exercise
Walking briskly for almost an hour daily or doing other regular physical activity is the key to losing weight and keeping it off, according to a large body of research, including a study released on October 24, 2007 at the annual meeting of the Obesity Society.

It may be because this amount of activity suppresses appetite, relieves stress, allows people to cheat a little on their diets, and replaces time spent eating, says John Jakicic, director of the Physical Activity and Weight Management Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh. In one study the researchers worked with 170 overweight and obese women for two years. Participants were given instruction on improving their eating habits, encouraged to increase physical activity by 150-300 minutes or more a week and received telephone calls at least twice a month from health professionals offering guidance and encouragement.

Some women were able to lose 5% and 7% of their weight by changing their eating habits but not exercising a lot more. BUT those who lost 10% or more of their starting weight-an average of 31 pounds and kept it off for two years changed their eating habits and did an additional 50 minutes a day above what they were going to do at the beginning of the program. They burned about 2,000 extra calories a week. Jessica Unick, an exercise researcher at the University of Pittsburgh, says the women who lost the 10% of their body weight did so in the first six months of the program and one of the reasons they were able to keep it off is because they maintained their high levels of physical activity. (Excerpts from October 24, 2007 USA Today Health article)

Other Activities:
Walking and running are not the only off season activity options. Dancing, biking, weight training, swimming is just a few great activity options to consider. CALL OUT TO THE DIVA NETWORK: If there is any Diva who is planning other activities and would like the company of other Divas, please email and I will post it in the next newsletter.

New Divas Welcome
On behalf of the entire Diva network, we want to welcome forty new Divas and Devos. These new Divas and Devos live all over the bay area including San Francisco, Pacifica, Soquel, Capitola, Yuba City, Fremont, Aptos, Mt View, Palo Alto, Campbell, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, and San Jose. They work in a wide range of professions including: Home CEO (full time mom and homemaker aka “slave” (her description), accounting, medical field (physician, nurse, pathology assistance), massage therapist, interpreter for the deaf, teacher, domestic violence victim advocate, salesperson, broker, business developer of world ventures, administrative assistance, lawyer, US Army, US Air Force and the San Francisco Marathon Training Director (I will be talking to her). The names of our new members:
Dorothy T, Victoria C, Neicsa J, Maria O, Maria Esperanza C, Michelle D, Toni T-C, Becky M, Leopoldo R, Carlos P, Patricia C, Kim S, Shelly(Rachelle) R, Virginia R, Deanna Y, Narisse K, Heather S, Cheriese V, Jodi R, Mara A, Jennifer H, Lois V, Robin H, Jessica C, Lucinda R, Virginia M, Ellen C, Lorena K, Lupe K, Shelly B, Nancy H, Maureen W, Colleen B, Ann Marie Z, Kaleolani C, Inga B, Nina L, Pamela C, Jennifer G, and Vincent D.

San Jose Rock ‘n’ Roll Rock With the 50’s
The Red Power Divas represented a wonderful cross section of women of all ages. The youngest to participate in a race was nine and our oldest Diva to participate in a race is 70 years old. Sixty percent of the Divas are 50 and older. For many of these 50 and older Divas training was a new experience and the Rock and Roll was their first major race event. The following is an email I received on October 15 from one of those 50 and older Divas which represents the concept that “It takes courage to push yourself to places you have never been before, to test your limits to break through barriers.” Donna is an example of real courage.

Dear Sharon,

I want to tell you how much I appreciate you training all of us for the Rock “N” Roll ½ Marathon. You inspired me to have confidence I didn’t think I had. I am still in a state of shock. I work on The Alameda and it seems so far as I drive down the street. I am blown away that I actually walked all those streets. It doesn’t seem real.

Four months ago I thought of myself as a middle-aged woman over 50 with Fibromyalgia and Osteoporosis. Words like “athlete” and “marathon” were not in my vocabulary. Those words described younger healthier people. I was out of breath walking up stairs or hills. I felt frail with little endurance. I laughed when Debbie M mentioned the ½ marathon happening in October. I thought maybe in a year of training I could improve, not by October! I didn’t sign up for the marathon until August and still was not real convinced I could do it.

You kept routing us on and said we were right on track (literally). I was hesitant, but you were so inspiring. My confidence started to build in September. It may be possible. It was still hard for me to imagine, but I trusted you. You believed in us.

My son now sees me as an athlete also. He knows the GU and MOJO bars are not just for him. His mother needs fuel also!

Thank you so much. I truly appreciate all of your time and effort. Your humor keeps us going and makes it fun. You are amazing!

With much warmth,
“Diva Donna”


My Special Thank You to All Divas
I want to take this opportunity to thank the entire Diva network for a great 2007 season of inspiration and the wonderful gifts presented to me at our Diva end of season party. I keep all the gifts in my chambers/office at court. My Garman GPS watch is kept on my mantel. I have used it in two race events, the Rock ‘n’ Roll and the Nike. She has been my companion and has kept me focused and guided me in the completion of those two events. She has quickly become a trusted friend. I call her “Justice.” The donation of funds by the Divas of $1,060 to my nonprofit Building Peaceful Families was the only monetary donation BPF received in 2007. Those funds will go to help a lot of people in need. The poster of the check has a special place on my bookshelf. And I am humbled by the Divas generosity. The Red Diva Rock made by Toni has a special place on my desk. It is special because she made it and I appreciate the time she spent with her busy schedule. I touch it every day and it gives me warmth and love. And the plaque with all the Diva signatures has a special place on a table in front of my desk. I look at it every day. And as I look at the beautiful plaque with all those Diva signatures, I still get choked up and it gives me such inspiration.

My chamber is a place of sanctuary. With the addition of these wonderful Diva gifts my sanctuary is now filled with warmth, support, inspiration and love. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.

10th Annual Walk to End Domestic Violence
On Friday, October 26, a gathering committed to peace in the home walked through downtown San Jose to take a stand in the 10^th annual Walk to End Domestic Violence. Four chairs were on a stage representing the lives lost to domestic violence in San Jose in 2007. Although this represented a dramatic drop in the number of lives lost, even one life is one to many. We were very proud to have a number of Red Power Divas (wearing their red shirts proudly) at the event in support of ending violence. RPD present include the following: Rhonda H, Linda A, Celeste M, Geri F, Sandra W ( East Bay Diva), Elvia E, Jody C, Peggy L, Mariam G, Laura M, Mary R, Rolanda P D, Marla J, Phaedra L, Natalia G, Rocio M, Veronica M-H and Sharon C.


Saturday on the Los Gatos Trail- October 27, 2007
A number of Divas rose early on Saturday morning and slowly made their way to the LGCT. Several Divas got on the trail early (7:30 a.m.). Sandra W and Kristi P were seen briskly walking after finishing a five mile walk. And Diana O ran and Anita O ran/walk ten miles as they prepared for the Silicon Valley half marathon on November 3. Also hitting the trail at 8:00 am was the Bobsy Twins (training partners) Jessica H and Heather S and Heather’s husband Vince. Training partners Michelle P and Celeste M walked the trail also but it was hard to determine if they were walking as fast as they were talking.
Marla J, in preparation for her birthday on November 1, was also out walking and dreaming about all the wonderful surprises she would receive on her birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARLA. And your coaches Jennifer G and Sharon C were on the trail to support any Diva in need.

Special welcome on Saturday to Heather’s husband, Vince D, who is our newest Red Power Devo.

Divas Create Many Forums for Communication
The wonderful talented Divas within the Diva network have created many forums in which Divas and Devos can communicate. Please take advantage of the opportunities to stay connected.

Policy: To protect the confidentiality of all Divas (and unwanted emails) emailing the entire Diva network via mass emails is prohibited without express permission.

New Diva Website (Created by Diva Heather S)
Diva Heather S has designed a Red Power Divas Website. It is a great source of Diva information including a Diva 2008 application. For now go to www.buildingpeacefulfamiles.org and click on the Red Power Divas link.

Diva Google Group (Created by Diva Sabrina F)
All Divas and Devos are encouraged to join the Diva Google Group. It is an excellent way to communicate with individual Divas or Devos or communicate with the Diva Goggle network. The Diva Goggle Group is only available for Red Power Diva members. If you have filled out a Diva application you will get permission. Sabrina is also the Divas premier photographer. She uses the Google Group to post all Diva photos.
redpowerdivas@googlegroups.com

Diva Blog (Created by Diva Sabrina F)
The Red Power Diva blog is a wonderful source of Red Power Diva information. You can access old RPD weekly summaries and training schedules.
http://redpowerdivas.blogspot.com

Red Power Divas Email (Created by Diva Heather S)
This email was created for me. If you have questions you can posted the questions and I will answer them. You can also access the Diva application on this site.
redpowerdivas@yahoo.com

Divas on the Run and Walk
The following Divas and Devos have entered race and other events around the Bay Area.

Sunday, October 21 – Nike Women’s Marathon and Half Marathon
I want to congratulate again those Divas who participated in the Nike Women’s Marathon and Half Marathon. All of these Divas ran/walk the San Jose Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon the previous week. Half Marathon Divas Debbie K- 3:13, Julies Lessa- 3:29 and San Francisco Divas Penny D and Denise Friday- 3:38. Sharon C completed the marathon in 6:23.

Sunday, November 3 – Silicon Valley Half Marathon: Participating in the half marathon: Yvette K, Diana O, Anita O, and Sharon C. Silicon Valley 5K: Diva Jennifer V with her daughters, Sarah and Chelsey and her two toddler sons in a jogger stroller. Jennifer is a great role model for her children.

Sunday, November 4 – Annual 5K Big Sur River Run
Diva Nancy B along with her husband, youngest daughter, brother-in- law and sister-in-law will be heading to Big Sur for the Annual 5K Big Sur River Run. Nancy is a great example of a Diva role model for the entire family. Congratulations Nancy.

Wednesday, November 7 – San Jose City Hall Stair Challenge
Divas Sandra W and Veronica M will be working their way up 16 flights of stairs at the San Jose City Hall Stair Challenge at 9:00 a.m. at 200 East Santa Clara Street at the 6^th Street stairwell. If any Diva is interest in joining Sandra and Veronica, please contact Sandra W

Sunday, November 11 - Stanford Habitat for Humanity - This is an event that the Red Power Divas entered a team. Celeste M, Michele P, Diana O, Anita O, Jennifer V, Rhonda H, Linda A, Denise L, Nancy B, Heather S, Vince D, Jessica H, Marla J, Pamela C, Karen H and Coaches Jennifer G and Sharon C.

Thursday, November 22 – Applied Materials Turkey Trot - Michelle P, Rhonda H, Linda A and Sharon C. Diva Elvia E will be walking with her one year old and three year old sons. Elvia’s three year old son cried because he wanted to wear a shirt just like mom’s at the Turkey Trot. So… both sons will be wearing their brand new Red Power Devos shirts on November 22. Elvia another Diva who is a great role model for her children.

Please Note: If you plan on entering one of the above events or some other event, please email and I will post your event in the next newsletter. For details about these race events refer to last weeks newsletter or refer to the Red Power Divas website. Go to www.buildingpeacefulfamiles.org and click on Red Power Divas link.

Red Power Divas New Coach - JENNIFER G
We are honored to welcome Jennifer G as the newest Red Power Divas coach. Jennifer will be joining us during the off season and will help in planning our 2008 season. Jennifer has been an outstanding Deputy Public Defender for over 20 years. Jennifer brings a wealth of experience. She has eight years of experience marathons training and women’s fitness.

Coaches Available and Divas First and Third Saturday on the Los Gatos Creek Trail
Coaches will be available for training assistance and any training questions the first and third Saturday of the month at the Los Gatos Creek Trail at 7:30 a.m. And of course please feel free to email. This is also an excellent opportunity for those Divas who want to reconnect and train together.

Red Power Doctor - Dr. J.T. Jensen (MASSAGE DISCOUNT)
Dr. Jensen (RPD seminar speaker) who is an experience runner and a recent participant in the San Jose Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon and Red Power Diva cheerleader is offering the RPD’s a post race recovery discount. The discount rate is for a 30 minute massage for $25.oo (regular price is $30) between now and Thanksgiving. To schedule an appointment call his office and ask for his massage therapist, Giovanna at (408) 371-0260. Mention “Red Power Divas.”


HEALTH
The next diet craze may be the apple diet. A new study shows an apple a day keeps the calories at bay. People who ate an apple about 15 minutes before lunch consumed almost 190 calories than when they didn’t have apple. Researches at Pennsylvania State University tested how the consumption of apples in different forms affects calories intake.

They had 59 normal-weight men and women come to the lab for five weeks to eat breakfast and lunch. Before lunch, the participants were given either nothing, 1 ½ medium peeled, cut-up apples (about 125 calories), or a similar caloric amount of applesauce, apple juice with added fiber or apple juice without fiber. About 15 minutes later, participants were served an entrée of cheese tortellini and tomato sauce.

Participants who had the raw apple consumed 187 fewer calories than at the meals when they had applesauce, juice or nothing. “This suggests that eating something like a piece of fruit that’s low in calories before your meal might be a great strategy for reducing calories intake,” says Julie Flood, a researcher at Penn State.

Barbara Rolls, a professor of nutritional science at Penn State, says the findings add to the knowledge that food low in calories, such as soup, salad, vegetables or fruit, at the beginning of a meal gives you an extra course, and you end up eating less. (Excerpts from October 24, 2007 USA Today Health article)

REMINDERS

Diva Survey - I want to thank all those who have returned the Red Power 2007 season review survey. The results of these surveys will be very helpful as we begin to plan for the 2008 season. If you have not done so, please take the time to return your survey as soon as possible. Thank you. Copy of survey is attached.

October - Women Recognition Month
The month of October is more than just the celebration of Halloween. It is a month that has been designated to highlight many important women issues. Fight to cure breast cancer, awareness of options on treatment of menopause, and solutions to prevent domestic violence are just a few. Women have become empowered and are leading the charge to attack these issues.

On a lighter note on the issue of empowerment of women: A Diva emailed this fairy tale story. She indicated that the story should be read to every little girl:

Once upon time in a land far away, a beautiful, independent, self-assured princess happened upon a frog as she sat contemplating ecological issues on the shores of an unpolluted pond in a verdant meadow near her castle. The frog hopped onto the princess’ lap and said: “Elegant Lady, I was once a handsome prince, until an evil witch cast a spell upon me. One kiss from you, however, and I will turn back into the dapper, young prince that I am and then, my sweet, we can marry and set up housekeeping in your castle with my mother, where you can prepare my meals, clean my clothes, bear my children, and forever feel grateful and happy doing so.”

That night, as the princess dined sumptuously on lightly sautéed frog legs seasoned in a white wine and onion cream sauce, she chuckled and thought to herself

I don’t freakin think so!

Divas Rock
Sharon

DIVA BUSINESS - WEEKLY SUMMARY OCTOBER 14-21

RED POWER DIVAS ROCK THE 2007
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

8787 Total Finishers - 3985 Males / 4802 Females

Largest Team - Small Size Company
1) Red Power Divas	Red Power Divas
2) Team Charlie	Team Charlie
3) Med Americans	Med America

CONGRATULATION – By now the soreness has begin to ease and your elation may not be as high but the good feeling that you had after the Rock ‘n’ Roll should still be in your heart and mind.

I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments of each of the RNR Diva participants. We had over a hundred participants flying colors under the Red Power Divas banner. Every single Diva that entered the RNR finished. Many Divas finished in times better than they had anticipated. Everyone in which the RNR is their first half marathon now have a personal record. You are veterans. Congratulations! What a great day.

Red Power Divas Top Five Finishers

Diana O	2:05.16
Magna R	2:06.44
Natalia G	2:16.22
Toni T Chrissy T	2:21.46 2:21.46
Jennifer G	2:21.58

I also want to play tribute to and highlight our Diva who was the last Diva finisher. She represents commitment, dedication and the true Diva spirit. She never lost focus on her goal to finish the race. The following is a copy of the very inspiring email she sent me on October 15, 2007:

Sharon -
Thank you, thank you. I still can't believe I did it. I carried my medal every where I went today. Before the race I was so scared. I had nightmares of sleeping through my alarm and missing the race to having the police car running me over because I was last and couldn't keep up. But when I got to the race, I was just so excited. Cheering with the team before hand, having our photo taken, taking my place in the corral. Suddenly we were off. The first 6 miles were a breeze (can you believe I'm saying that?).

I was talking to people around me and those along the road. Singing to the songs played by the band. At 8 miles, I was pushing. But the sideline cheering was continuing. Couldn't stop. But other walkers kept stopping. Some got rides from vans and others just stopped. The police car escort kept getting closer. By mile 9, I was last. So I kept walking faster and occasionally passing this couple. They were from out of town and noticed I kept passing them. We joked and laughed. By mile 11, I hit a wall and felt like I couldn't go any farther. Everything hurt. But I kept saying to myself that Sharon promised that I could do this. So I kept walking and then I stopped hurting. We passed a medical station that gave us all bandages for our blisters but we didn't stop walking. We kept going til we hit the finish line.

My official time was 4 hrs 15 min and 4 sec. with one restroom stop. I came in 8779 out of 8787. So I wasn't the last one!!! AND I finished!!!!
Best of all.......NEXT YEAR - I will be faster!!! Because now I know I can do it.

So THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart
Love Debbie


Life Time Fitness: It has been a week since the RNR. I hope you are rested and the soreness has finally left. You were a big winner when you finished the RNR. You trained hard and elevated your level of fitness. You win even bigger simply by keeping at it for the long haul, for years and decades. Keeping fit is like raising kids, it is not seasonal but lifetime. I hope you keep at it.

Play It Forward - I hope that the wonderful feeling that you experienced after the RNR will motivate you to pass it on to other women by encouraging them to become active and work on their fitness. And of course if the balance is right in their life, hopefully they will join the Red Power Divas.

New Divas – We have forty new Divas who filled out applications at the RNR Expo. Three of the Divas actually joined us for the RNR.

Diva Survey - I want to thank all those who have returned the Red Power 2007 season review survey. The results of these surveys will be very helpful as we begin to plan for the 2008 season. If you have not done so, please take the time to return your survey as soon as possible. Thank you. Copy of survey is attached.

Diva 2008 Application - The 2007 season was an exceptional season and it is only the beginning. We hope that you decide to join us for 2008. If you plan on participating in 2008, please fill out the 2008 application and return it via email or fax (408) 808-7247. If you do want to participate but would like to remain on the email list, please contact me via email. All Red Power Diva email addresses for 2007 will be purged on January 1, 2008. There is an application in the attachment below.


New Diva Chapter – Information on our new Santa Cruz chapter will be coming soon.

New Diva Website - Thanks to Diva Heather S new Red Power Diva is under development.

Diva DVD of 2007 Season - Thanks to Diva Judy H and Devo Leo H the wonderful 2007 Red Power Diva First Season Review is available. They will be available at Red Power Diva Post season Saturday workouts and at the October and November race events listed below.

Post Season/Winter Season Calendar - In the attachment below please find the post/winter season calendar. Coaches will be available for Saturday workouts on the first and last Saturday of each month. The workouts listed are optional. The key is to continue with your fitness whether it is walking, running, biking, dancing, or anything else you enjoy doing.

Post Season Races: The Red Power Divas are approximately six months old. You Divas have made such an impression that we are getting invitations to participate in a number of race events. You represent the best examples of commitment, dedication to fitness and achieving a goal. Organizers want our positive energy around. If you are interested in continuing participating in race events www.schedule.com has a number of events through 2008. Below is listed several races events that I recommend and hope other Divas will join me in participating:

Friday, October 26, 2007
Walk to End Domestic Violence
Start: 11:00 a.m. Speaker – Denise Brown – (Nicole Brown Simpson’s sister)
NO Registration Required - Show Up
Location: San Jose City Hall – 200 E. Santa Clara, San Jose
Cost: No Cost
Type of Event: Walk Procession followed by a
Community Lunch and Resource Fair

This event is a wonderful way to show your support and the support of the Red Power Divas to end domestic violence. If you attend, please wear your RPD shirt. If you can attend for even 30 minutes that would be great.

Date: Sunday, November 11, 2007
Stanford University Habitat for Humanity
Registration: 7:45 a.m. Pac 10 Plaza
10K Starts: 8:30 a.m.
5K Starts: 9:00 a.m.
Location:
Course: Through scenic Stanford campus
Cost: Before Nov. 3^rd $25.00 - After Nov. 3^rd $30.00
Red Power Divas: We will be entering a team in the Women’s Division
Register Online at: Active.com

Note: We have been especially invited to participate in this event. It is a great charity and I have entered our team. I would love to have a team of at least 20 people. I want to encourage you to participate if the balance in your life permits. If you register, please contact me.


Date: Thursday, November 22, 2007 (Thanksgiving Day)
Applied Materials Silicon Valley Turkey Trot
Registration: 7:30 a.m.
10K Starts: 9:00 a.m.
5K Starts: 9:00 a.m.
Children’s Fun Run: 10:40 a.m.
Location:
Course: Guadalupe River Park/Confluence Meadow
Downtown San Jose

Cost: Before Nov. 3^rd $25.00 - After Nov. 3^rd $30.00

Running for Charity: Turkey Trot
the Applied Materials Silicon Valley Turkey Trot exists to benefit local charities. These charities help valley families meet their most basic needs, for health, hope, and a home.

Start Thanksgiving Day off on the right foot at the Applied Materials Silicon Valley Turkey Trot. Before the big games, the big meal, the parades and the pies why not get in a little run and a lot of fun while benefiting local charities? It is an event the whole family will enjoy, and a great way to kick off your Thanksgiving Day.

RPD 2008 Planning Committee - We are still looking for anyone who is interested in helping us plan for the 2008 Red Power Divas season. Please email me if you are interested. (Current members: Jennifer G, Debbie K, Beth D, Judy H, and Heather S)

Roc ‘n’ Roll Photographs - There were a number of family and friends taking photographs of Divas at the RNR. To help us keep a historical photographic record of our first RNR, I would appreciated it if possible to email a copy of those photographs to Heather S. Thanks.


Congratulations and Good Luck – Divas in Other Races: Congratulations to Divas Debbie K and Julie L who participated in the San Francisco Nike Women’s Half Marathon October 21. It was a beautiful day in the City but this was an extremely difficult and hilly course. I completed the marathon.
Good luck to Yvette K who will run in the Silicon Valley Half Marathon on November 4. Please contact me if you are participating race events.

Divas Rock
Sharon