Inspiring Lives Magazine Issue 7: Winter 2018

A PASSION FOR BUSINESS, A LOVE FOR LIFE!

ISSUE 7• WINTER 2018

PUCKER UP FOR CHANGE

INCREDIBLE ICONS

with Real Beauty Real Women

BRITNEY SPEARS SHONDA RHIMES JUJU SMITH-SCHUSTER LIDIA BASTIANICH DR. BRENÉ BROWN CARLA HARRIS ALISON MIDSTOKKE MICHELLE OBAMA

#METOO MOVEMENT

FIRE UP YOUR FINANCES

MEET THE

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY Awardees

COVER STORY Empowering Women in Philanthropy Awards

Dr. Shellie Hipsky............................................................................................................... 84

LIVING Eliminating Isolation by Bridging Differences

Tarra Flores Sloan.............................................................................................................. 11

The Mighty Lance of a Champion Mindset

Cori Wamsley..................................................................................................................... 15

A Lighthouse in 40 Years of Darkness

Jen Forsyth............................................................................................................................ 17

Women Unite on Social Media with #MeToo Campaign

Cori Wamsley..................................................................................................................... 19

Society Spotlight............................................................................................................... 20 BUSINESS Fire Up Your Finances

Jessica McCrory................................................................................................................ 26

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in STEM

Cori Wamsley..................................................................................................................... 30

The Value of Engaging to Retain

Deb Gray............................................................................................................................. 35

CULTURE Different is Beautiful

Samantha Barna................................................................................................................ 42

BOOK REVIEW: The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity

Tracy Rasmussen................................................................................................................. 45

FILM REVIEW: Served Like a Girl

Jess Branas.......................................................................................................................... 47

The Global Sisterhood Takes on Vegas!

Valerie Lerch........................................................................................................................ 49

REVIEW: Britney Spears: “Piece of Me” in Vegas

Dr. Shellie Hipsky............................................................................................................... 50

WINTER 2018

CONTENTS

Continued

Photo: Marla Aufmuth/Getty Images

CONTENTS FOOD & TRAVEL Lidia: The Master Italian Chef Whips Up Divine Dishes with a Side of Inspiration Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................................... 52

Savor Pittsburgh Benefits Women’s and Children’s Health RESTAURANT REVIEW: Jackson’s Restaurant and Bar

Marci Radcliffe....................................................................... 56

Passport to Inspiration: Hot Springs, Arkansas

Kim Adley................................................................................. 58

Photo: Mara Rago

Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................................... 55

Shonda Rhimes and Michelle Obama.

HEALTH & WELLNESS A Morning Ritual to Boost Productivity by a Whopping 30%

FASHION & BEAUTY New York Fashion Week

A Shot that Echoed in Dulcet Tones

DESIGNER PROFILE: Valeria Green

Pamela Power Scanlon, M.S............................................... 64 Cori Wamsley......................................................................... 67

The Alexis Joy Foundation: Support for the Baby Blues

Alice Beckett-Rumberger...................................................... 69

Total Sports Enterprises and #TeamJuJu Team Up for The Homeless Children’s Education Fund

Rachael Rennebeck............................................................... 71

SPECIAL SECTION: PHILANTHROPY A View From the Press Room: Michelle Obama, Carla Harris, Shonda Rhimes, and Dr. Brené Brown Jess Branas...............................................................................74

Pucker Up for Change

Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................................... 78

Empowering Women in Philanthropy Awards

Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................................... 84 6

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Jenn Lederer............................................................................ 91

Valeria Green......................................................................... 94

Settlement Engine Fashion Week Downtown

Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................................... 97

Winter 2018: Fashion Heats Up

Teri Lynn Woodruf................................................................ 100

Just Jackie: Red Hot

Jackie Capatolla.................................................................. 103 COVER NOTES: Empowering Women in Philanthropy winners on the cover with Editor-inchief Dr. Shellie Hipsky: Brianne Mitchell, Lynn Banaszak, Sindel Taylor, Heather Habura Photography: Mary Beth Kratsas Stylist: Julie Shields Hair and Makeup: Hope Marie, Eva Dixon, and Ali Fleeman Jewelry: Sabika from Tammy Funk and J. Crew Gowns: Eva Dixon Designs and Once Upon a Bride Direction: Dr. Shellie Hipsky Location: MBK Photography Studio

Photo: Ray Feather

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Hello, What an amazing time in history it is to run Inspiring Lives Magazine! At its very core, we have always been based on women’s empowerment. After all, I began Empowering Women Radio years ago. Between that show, my books, and my television show Inspiring Lives with Dr. Shellie, I have interviewed nearly a thousand women on what inspires them and what challenges they have overcome.

In the pages of Inspiring Lives Magazine, we have featured women who have survived domestic violence, chronic illness, kidnapping, sexual harassment, and much more.

In my keynotes around the world, I have admitted to my own battle to deal with being raped at 16 years old, which led to a great deal of emotional turmoil for me during a formative time of my life.

So when the #MeToo movement hit social media…I stood with my brave sisters internationally and told my own story. I was glad to see the Silence Breakers take their place on the cover of TIME Magazine as the Persons of the Year for 2017. I am proud that Inspiring Lives Magazine is continuing discussion of this issue, focusing on amazing women and their stories of triumph.

In this issue, we feature truly incredible icons! It was amazing interacting with these legends. Imagine my delight to be in the presence of our Former First Lady Michelle Obama as she was interviewed by screenwriter, director, and producer Shonda Rhimes during the 2017 PA Conference for Women.

For this issue, I was invited to break bread with Lidia Bastianich the Master Italian Chef, TV host, and restaurateur. She cooked the most delectable meal for my team and me at Lidia’s of Italy, one of her fabulous restaurants!

Dancing in the front row and meeting Britney Spears backstage at her “Piece of Me” concert in Vegas was a blast. And quite frankly it was a “fan girl” dream come true for me!

There are so many stories, articles, and personalities between the covers of this magazine that I can’t possibly rave about each one. So grab a warm mug of your favorite winter drink and snuggle up under a cozy blanket. Meet the Empowering Women of Philanthropy Awardees and so many more inspiring, incredible people in the Winter 2018 issue of Inspiring Lives Magazine!

Hugs,

Dr. Shellie Hipsky

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. SHELLIE HIPSKY s.hipsky@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

KELLY FROST k.frost@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

CHRISTINE M. SCOTT creative@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

LEAD STYLISTS

CORI NICOLE SMITH WAMSLEY editorial@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

TERI WOODRUFF styling@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

CIRCULATION TEAM

JULIE SHIELDS

KENNETH ASKEW & ABIGAIL ASKEW circulation@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

j.shields@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

EVENT COORDINATOR ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

TONYA EDINGER

RACHEL DAYOUB r.dayoub@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

INTERN ANNA COMPTON

SHANNON MARTINEZ s.martinez@inspiringlivesmagazine.com MARCI RADCLIFFE m.radcliffe@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS SAMANTHA BARNA social@inspiringlivesmagazine.com RACHEL DAYOUB r.dayoub@inspiringlivesmagazine.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kim Adley | Samantha Barna | Alice Beckett-Rumberger Jess Branas | Jackie Capatolla | Tarra Flores Sloan | Jen Forsyth Deb Gray | Valeria Green | Dr. Shellie Hipsky | Jenn Lederer Valerie Lerch | Jessica McCrory | Marci Radcliffe | Tracy Rasmussen Rachael Rennebeck | Pamela Power Scanlon, M.S Cori Wamsley | Teri Lynn Woodruff

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Kim Adley | Marla Aufmuth/Getty Images | Karen Bartos John Chamberlin | Mike Deakin | Allison Franz | Brian Hanna Dr. Shellie Hipsky | Jersey Evening Post | Stevie Muren Perfect Image Photography | Dennis Rodriguez | Sunshine Sachs Ryan Smas | Eric Toal | Trevor Yannayon

InspiringLivesMagazine.com Copyright © 2018 Inspiring Lives, LLC, Inspiring Lives International Publishing, Inc. P.O. Box 513, South Park, PA 15129, USA Contact Inspiring Lives International Publishing, Inc. at advertising@inspiringlivesmagazine.com. Reprints and back issues available on request.

All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in articles or books. Although every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this magazine is correct at the time of going to press, the authors have written from their own view point and therefore all information is personal opinion. The information is not shared in a professional capacity and does not constitute as professional advice for your own situation. Please consult an expert if that is what you require. The authors and publisher assume no liability to any party as a result of the contents of this magazine.

LIVING IN THIS SECTION: Eliminating Isolation by Bridging Differences

Tarra Flores Sloan...................................................................... 11

The Mighty Lance of a Champion Mindset

Cori Wamsley............................................................................. 15

A Lighthouse in 40 Years of Darkness

Jen Forsyth.................................................................................... 17

Women Unite on Social Media with #MeToo Campaign

Cori Wamsley............................................................................. 19

Society Spotlight....................................................................... 20

“Accept responsibility for your life. Know that it is you who will get you where you want to go, no one else.”

—Les Brown

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ELIMINATING ISOLATION

by Bridging Differences

By Tarra Flores Sloan • Photography provided by Rich and Yvonne Dutra-St. John

R

ich and Yvonne Dutra-St. John founded Challenge Day, now a program exclusively for high school and college students, 30 years ago because long before they got married and had children, they had been bullied. Now, they would be the change.

Some experts believe that major issues in schools are drug abuse, suicide, and violence, but Rich and Yvonne know from experience that these are byproducts. The deeper reasons for these issues are isolation, separation, and loneliness.

They wanted youth to see that they have more commonalities than differences.

At their first Challenge Day, gang members who previously fought were hugging and apologizing by the end of the day.

Their Be The Change Movement, which includes Challenge Day and Be the Change (adult and corporate workshops), has been furthered thanks to attention in print and on TV: Chicken Soup For The Teenage Soul, the Teen Files documentary, Bully Solution aired across Canada, and an episode on Oprah Winfrey. Twice. MTV’s If You Really Knew Me, Bridging the Divide documentary by Tom Brokaw aired, and numerous awards followed.

Today, an emotional video on the Challenge Day website tells that they have impacted 1.5 million students and adults so far, with the help of program supporters like Alanis Morissette, Van Jones, and Marianne Williamson. Another supporter, Oprah Winfrey, once said, “I believe this is the very idea of Dr. King’s dream fulfilled. It is the dream of giving hope a chance, giving peace a chance, giving love a chance. I am not kidding when I say this is how we change the world.”

As we talked, Jesi Tinker-Rein, Rich’s son, retold a moving story told by his dad.

As kids entered the classroom, Dad spotted a student wearing all black, leather, spikes, long hair, and a stay-away vibe. He knew he wanted him in his group when it was time for group work.

The entire day, that student sat outside his assigned group circle. He never talked or participated, but he stayed. And listened. Dad would pat his shoulder and tell him he is doing a good job just for being there and sticking it out. Dad’s goal is inclusiveness.

Finally near the end of the program, the student chose to speak. Dad doesn’t remember what he said into the mic, but he remembers that everyone could feel that something had changed. His peers applauded; they were proud. After that meeting, he became an active participant in school, and his grades improved. Dad and Yvonne set up a mentoring system to help support him.

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A life transforming Challenge Day in Africa.

Tinker-Rein has seen at least one miracle in every program because each youth has the opportunity to choose, change, and grow. “I ask everyone if they know what a comfort zone is, and they all always raise their hands. Then I ask who wants to talk about it, and hands drop. I introduce the concept of discomfort.

You don’t have to grow. You get out of this whatever work you put in.”

Then he walks them through an exercise that shows how you can leave your comfort zone. “Cross your hands. Now uncross and recross them with the opposite thumb on top. It’s uncomfortable—not painful.”

Tinker-Rein explains to the students that everyone has an “iceberg persona”: 10% exposed image—their persona—and 90% hidden under the water line—emotions, fears, ambitions.

Dropping the water line leads to healing, confidence.

Though Challenge Day can have a tremendous impact, there is always more work to do, and Tinker-Rein explained what else the Be The Change Movement offers. “After going through two Challenge Day programs to clear past hurts and trauma, a person can take Why You Came To Earth. There is so much work to do, and it is my mission, passion, and purpose.”

Adults also have much to gain from the Be The Change Movement. “Adult issues include racism, disability, judgment, and more. I’ve witnessed an African American and a Mexican American stand, face the crowd, and yell out their hurts. They felt judgment, hate, anxiety, pain, and fear. A white person repeated their words. They felt like they had been heard. I always witness real change.”

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Rich and Yvonne Dutra-St.John—founders of Challenge Day and the Be the Change Movement

To erase isolation, separation, and loneliness, masses are asked to “cross the line” if they were ever bullied, judged, or abused, for example. All cross at least once; many repeat. One such time Lisa Ling, an Oprah Winfrey Show correspondent, witnessed an entire high school cross. Every seat was empty.

Racism was confronted, healing began. This program inspires lives from one school or company to another, all over the world.

To attend a Challenge Day program, visit ChallengeDay.org or Facebook/ChallengeDay. n

Students participate in the "cross the line� activity, bringing awareness to just how many among them are affected by bullying, judgement or abuse.

Part of Challenge Day, these high school students break into groups to bridge gaps and understand each other better.

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BUSINESS PROFILES

RICHARD SEBES

R

ichard has been in the hair business for over 30 years. Starting at Premier, he trained with Arnold Zegarell. Richard quickly became the hair styling director, as well as the senior national educator for 1,500 salons, while maintaining a full client list, which has included celebrities and sports figures.

JESSICA HORNER-HECKMAN

J

essica has maintained a passion for the beauty industry in every aspect of the field along with time she's dedicated to her salon guests at Izzazu Wexford. She is especially excited to welcome her newest role as the Creative Styles Director educating the industry’s newest rising stars.

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Photo: Mike Deakin

Mark Baker explains why belief is the driving force in our lives.

The Mighty Lance of a Champion Mindset

By Cori Wamsley

B

olstering his self-esteem, activating the Law of Attraction, and focusing on evidence of what was possible helped Mark Baker make great strides away from a childhood of abuse toward a career as a top insurance salesman.

Now, as a public speaker, Baker teaches others his not-so-secret recipe for success.

Baker initially struggled in his career in life insurance sales.

He was slow to make each of his new production goals. Finally, he set his mark at $250k worth of commissions but couldn’t come close. So he tracked down the two top insurance salesmen and asked them to mentor him. However, two years of learning from the best didn’t improve his sales record. “I realized I was a flawed human being with deep-seated problems. I needed to work on myself before I could reach the next level.”

“I had a break-through that I had limiting beliefs.” Because of this, Baker shied away from the high-income potential clients who could help him make bigger sales.

Finally, the universe conspired to nudge him in the right direction. A friend asked him to meet with a potential client.

When Baker arrived, the friend told him the client intended to invest £100 million in life insurance. Too late to back out, Baker entered the restaurant and started talking to the man “the way I talk to normal people.” It worked. This is how he re-

alized that he could sell to anyone, no matter their income level because “once I met this man, everyone else seemed smaller.”

All he had to do was believe he could do it. Soon Baker’s sales skyrocketed.

This was the gateway to public speaking. “When you’re successful in sales, people want you to tell them how you did it.”

Ten years ago, Baker left sales to focus on his speaking career.

His talk about principles of mindset was changing lives as he taught people about a system of tools to help them identify their own limiting beliefs and start changing them.

Baker’s success story and the way he helps others is inspiring on its own. But what happened when he was only 46 demonstrated the astonishing power that the mind can have over the body.

Symptoms his doctor brushed off as stress and an infection led Baker to Google his symptoms. He took the advice he found for someone with similar symptoms, and that saved his life.

Baker immediately went to the ER, saw multiple doctors, including an oncologist, and had emergency surgery only a few days later, followed by a biopsy. Then, he finally received his diagnosis: lymphoma (cancer of the blood). Baker was given a 20% chance of survival.

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Delegates prepare to walk across 600 degree embers.

“BUT the biggest factor in survival is mindset. I had to really believe that I would recover.” He began chemo treatments soon after.

“In the chemo ward, so many people looked desperate because they didn’t believe they would survive. The woman next to me one day, Annie, told me she had believed she would beat her cancer and only had two tumors left. Then, her chemo nurse said not to get her hopes up because the type of tumors she had usually come back. She believed the nurse, and they DID come back…after all that progress.” So Baker explained how he used visualization to help him stay positive AND trick his body into beating the cancer.

“I used to imagine knights on white horses spearing the cancer on their lances. The subconscious mind can’t tell the difference between what is real and what is imagined.”

As the pair spoke, the other patients gathered around him to listen. Baker watched their faces change as they began to understand. “It was so rewarding. The most beautiful experience.”

By the way, two years later, Annie called him to say that she did everything he suggested, and 80% of her tumors were gone. She’s still alive today.

Baker said that if he had not gone through the abuse and negative self-beliefs he held when he was younger, he wouldn’t have discovered the tools to save his life. His difficult past made his future possible.

I asked Baker for some tips for achieving the mindset to reach your next goal or persevere through a difficult time. As background, he said that your body has a reticular activating system (RAS), which lets you see what your brain is focusing on. Think of when you bought a new car in your favorite color only to discover that everyone is driving that exact car in that color. Or if you want something in your life, it seems like everyone else has it.

You can put this to use with the Law of Attraction. “When you focus and think about what you want with emotion and 16

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passion, that message gets through, and then life falls into place.”

Here are Baker’s suggestions for implementing this in your own life.

1. Pay attention to what you focus on and think about. Focus on what you want to achieve, and you will see more of the same.

2. Set goals. We are goal-seeking beings. We are always moving toward something, so you must set goals to get somewhere. You may have heard, “When the people have no vision, they perish.” The vision pulls you toward it.

3. Don’t treat obstacles as stop signs. Baker initially thought everyone else could achieve, but he couldn’t. This is because he always stopped when he met resistance. You will always have challenges and obstacles. Don’t let them stop you.

Overcome them.

4. Remember the 5-second rule. Change is a threat, so your mind comes up with reasons your brilliant new ideas won’t work. This is why you must act on them in the first 5 seconds after you think of them. This is how you build momentum.

Use this concept to transform your life. It doesn’t make it easier; it just gets it done.

For more information about Mark Baker, visit markbakerspeaks.co.uk. n

Photo: Jersey Evening Post

Photo: Mike Deakin

LIVING

Mark Baker

LIVING

MINISTER APRIL TORRENCE:

A LIGHTHOUSE IN 40 YEARS OF DARKNESS

By Jen Forsyth

Photo: Eric Toal

T

o call Minister April Torrence an angel to her community seems tired, cliché, and just wrong. Rather, like the prop she uses in her speeches, she is a lighthouse; she is the light in the midst of danger that brings those in need to safety. She provides a safe place, and she has managed to provide forgiveness and redemption in a place where many believed it would never happen, all the while standing tall in her community, vowing never to abandon it.

Torrence’s dedication to that community is vital because so many have already left it. The Sharon, Pa., area, like many in western Pennsylvania, was hit hard by the collapse of the steel industry and is now searching for a new identity. Many families in Torrence’s care as executive director of the New Light Christian Education Center in Sharon deal with poverty, drugs, and crime. However, it is the ghost of a child long passed, and the promise to bring her family back together, that also keep her community work progressing. To Torrence, it’s all for Cynthia.

Fate seemed to take over when it came to Torrence’s place with the Runyan family. Torrence was a child herself back on April 10, 1977, when she was riding a church bus home on Easter from Sunday school in Sharon. Her eight-year-old friend Tom and his five-year-old sister Cynthia had exited the bus to go home. However, Cynthia’s Sunday school papers had blown away, and she ran back toward the bus to catch them.

The driver, unaware of the situation, pulled the bus forward, crushing the little girl and killing her instantly.

“We weren’t allowed to look out the rearview bus window,” Torrence remembers, “but it was bad. I remember Audrey [Cynthia’s mother] beating up the bus driver, and I suppressed everything from that point on.”

Unfortunately, what Torrence didn’t know about all those years was that the Runyan family never recovered from Cynthia’s passing. Young Tom, who was in charge of watching his sister that day and let go of her hands when she chased her Sunday school papers, took on much of the blame for what happened and suffered immensely with nightmares, delinquency, and separation from much of his family. Cynthia’s parents, Audrey and Frank, separated, and Audrey moved away, drinking to escape the pain of losing her precious daughter.

The family stayed apart for more than 30 years, until a talk, a lighthouse, and an unexpected volunteer collided on Torrence’s shores.

In March of 2016, Torrence gave a talk for Dr. Shellie Hipsky’s Inspiring Lives International Global Gala and Mastermind. She started thinking about what she did. She knew what she did for a living, but why? What was her purpose?

“Then, I had a dream about the bus incident. After 39 years, it just came back to the front of my mind. Then I rode through the neighborhood where it happened. That’s when I realized that my center was only two blocks away from where she was hit and the house I grew up in was only eight houses away from where she was hit. And then it was clear. ‘Alright God, you placed me back into this community to remember, to provide a safe haven for the kids in the community, and give them an outlet to achieve whatever educational goals they need to achieve.’”

“Cynthia Runyon never made it to kindergarten. She would have been in kindergarten that September, and that’s what I’m doing now. I’m helping children transition to kindergarten. So all of this has come full circle with me.”

She never imagined one of Cynthia’s nephews would be one of the people helping her do it all.

Thomas Runyan, Jr., needed to do some community service after “being too much of a fan” at a Pittsburgh Steelers–Cleveland Browns football game. He approached Torrence about it and has been her assistant pre-K teacher ever since.

“He walked into the center one day looking to do some community service hours. I recognized his last name, and I thought, ‘Wow, the Runyan family!’ I mentioned Cynthia. He WINTER 2018

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LIVING said ‘I think she’s related to me,’ not knowing she was his aunt, so we didn’t discuss it again. And then I did the Inspiring Lives talk, and we waited months for it to be released. When it was finally released, I sent it to Tom, and he shared it with his mother. That’s when my Facebook private messages blew up, only to find out Tom’s father was the one who was holding Cynthia’s hand when she let the Sunday school papers go.”

Torrence then discovered through the messages how torn apart the Runyan family had been for nearly four decades. She felt this family had been assigned to her, and she promised them she would do something.

Through her research, Torrence learned that 2017 was the 40th anniversary of Cynthia’s passing. She felt it was important to commemorate the event. Through Facebook, she was able to contact and meet other Runyan family members. While the siblings have had limited to no contact with their parents in more than 30 years, all agreed to come back to the site of Cynthia’s passing on April 10, 2017, to participate in the ceremony.

Three scholarships totaling $2,000 in the names of Cynthia

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and of Tom Jr.’s late infant daughter Harper were also awarded at the ceremony to three students graduating from Penn State’s Shenango Campus. It was especially emotional for Tom Jr.’s father, Tom Sr., and his mother Audrey, who have been estranged since Cynthia’s death.

“They actually had Easter dinner together at Tom Jr.’s house.

It was the first time he had seen his grandmother, and he’s in his late 20s. I know I was used by God to bring them back together again, to release the scholarship in Cynthia’s name, to turn something very tragic into something positive.”

The Runyan family could not be more grateful for Torrence’s presence in their lives.

“She likes to call herself the ‘lighthouse’ or ‘light keeper,’” Tom Jr. said. “I would definitely say that, especially when it comes to anything for children because if the New Light Christian Education Center wasn’t here, where would the kids go? And that’s not always good.”

The light keeper is on duty in Sharon, all in the name of Cynthia. n

WOMEN UNITE ON SOCIAL MEDIA WITH #METOO CAMPAIGN

By Cori Wamsley

LANI DEE When I learned about the #MeToo movement, I felt both fear and excitement. I hesitated because I was scared of what my ex would think and do, but I knew this would help abused women gain hope and courage and maybe get away from their abusers so they could live without bruises, anxiety, and guilt. I wanted to uplift other women and uplift myself.

I was married for nearly a decade and was psychologically, physically, and sexually abused by my now ex-husband. He controlled me and our finances and permanently disabled my van so I couldn’t leave him. He continues to control me today through the custody of our son. Despite therapy, I still struggle to leave the house most days, but giving my sons something better keeps me going. They need to know that’s not how you treat women.

For the last 4 months, I’ve been following my dream of modeling, and my supportive daughter walks with me at the shows. I’m not used to having other people support me, but the other models and the people I’ve met have been wonderful. They help me whenever they can with a ride to a show or just by listening.

For other women going through this, I would tell them to not change who they are because narcissists don’t love you. They just want to control you. They want you to be dependent and feel unworthy. Have a bag packed and a support system and be confident enough to be self-sufficient.

ANGELA WAUTHIER I heard about the #MeToo movement when I saw someone post their story on Twitter. I was happy that someone took the initiative to generate awareness for an important subject.

When I was 12, I was abused by a friend’s stepfather, and when I was 17, I was raped by two men.

One of the men I considered to be like a brother. For the longest time I blamed myself because I had a few drinks that night, but whether I was naked, clothed, drunk, or sober, they had no right to lay a finger on me. I have had years of counseling and still struggle with nightmares, flashbacks, and fear. This is not something that heals overnight.

I became involved with Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) to help others get justice and take their power back.

This violence can happen to anyone. Many people see abuse and think it’s not their business. It is our duty as a community to recognize it. You could save a life.

I would tell another girl or boy that is experiencing sexual violence to take it day by day and recommend them to PAAR. Although I am still healing, I would not be where I am today without them.

Photo: Trevor Yannayon

A

call to action from actress Alyssa Milano following Harvey Weinstein’s sexual misconduct allegations blew up social media in November 2017. Milano Tweeted a suggestion from a friend: “If you’ve been sexually harassed or assaulted write ‘me too’ as a reply to this tweet.” This was followed by more than half a million women taking to Twitter and Facebook to share the hashtag and sometimes a story of what happened to them.

Our feeds were flooded with this post on Facebook: “#MeToo. If all the women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted wrote ‘Me too’ as a status, we might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem.”

Men also used the hashtag to both support women and show that the abuse happens to men as well.

Inspiring Lives Magazine spoke with women who used the hashtag about the movement, their personal stories, and what they would say to other women being abused. Some of their stories are featured here.

ALLISON MELCZAK I was completely in love with the #MeToo idea and how it brought people together in a safe and creative place. The event just was an amazing opportunity to meet different people and somewhere that was safe for us to talk and express ourselves.

My personal story is all over the place, from molestation as a young child to two rapes as an adult. I have been through depression and low self-esteem, but ultimately, I realized that it's all a part of my story. I've just learned to accept that it's a part of me but it doesn't define me.

If I talked to another woman who was going through a similar experience, I would make sure she understood that she is definitely not alone. So many have been through it, and we should support one another. n

Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) offers free services that help survivors heal. It also provides support, including a 24-hour hotline for those in crisis, medical advocacy, legal advocacy and victim compensation advice, individual therapy, child art based therapy, and group therapy. If you need any of these services, please call (412-431-5665).

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SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT WORLD HERITAGE CULTURAL CENTER’S FUNDRAISER AT FOUNTAIN HOUSE GALLERY

Photo: World Heritage Cultural Center

Evan & Friends, a children-led committee of the World Heritage Cultural Center, sponsored a fundraiser at the Fountain House Gallery in New York City on September 22, 2017, that benefited Orphans International Worldwide (OIW). World Heritage Cultural Center is a 501 (c)(3) organization committed to creating a common ground where any culture in the world can celebrate their way of life through the arts and food, while making a positive impact through knowledge and charity since 2005 (www.mywhcc.org).

The Global Sisterhood collaborated with the World Heritage Cultural Center and Evan & Friends for the reception.

Evan and Friends - A World Heritage Cultural Center committee of kids for kids who proudly paint the world a better place one charity at a time.

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SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT

YACS PITTSBURGH ANNUAL WIG OUT

Director of Support Services for YACS Pittsburgh, as well as the creator of the Wig Out, Stephanie Scoletti was the host for the event. She and her husband Matt sported 80s looks for the evening.

Photo:

The 6th Annual Wig Out was held on October 19, 2017, at the Hard Rock Café in Station Square in Pittsburgh.

Over 250 people attended, and all proceeds benefit Young Adult Cancer Support (YACS) Pittsburgh: a Cancer Caring Center program that provides a support group, social activities, and financial assistance to young adult cancer patients and survivors in Western PA. Wig Out guests wore Halloween wigs to honor cancer patients, who often need to wear wigs while having treatment. During the event, guests enjoyed music entertainment, a photo booth, hors d’oeuvres, and beer and liquor samplings. In addition to honoring the young adult cancer survivors in the YACS group, the event featured a best wig contest.

Details about YACS— the only local resource for young adults with cancer in Western PA—can be found at cancercaring.org.

Alexandra Marciesky, Pete Dornenburg, and Karly Hresko entered raffles for auction items they hoped to win. The auction prizes that evening were worth over $5,000.

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SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT

Inspiring Lives Magazine's Empowering Women in Philanthropy Awards honored the nominees, the finalists, and the charities they support. We are thrilled to bring attention to their charitable work and celebrate the magic of giving. Thanks to a donation from the Global Sisterhood 501 (c)(3) in partnership with the Jacobs Foundation, donations will be made to the winner's favorite charities: The Caileigh Lynn McDowell Foundation, The United Way Women's Leadership Council, Children and Youth Services, PACER's Bullying Prevention Center, and the American Heart Association.

Roberta Adamski Tumulty, one of the finalists for the Empowering Women in Philanthropy Awards and her beautiful sisters Erika DiAntonio and Alysha Meier.

Photo: Mary Beth Kratsas

Concierge planning was provided by Tonya Edinger with Weddings & Events of Pittsburgh.

Photo: Paul Falavolito

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY AWARDS

Winners of the Inspiring Lives Magazine 2017 Empowering Women in Philanthropy Awards: Brianne Mitchell, Sindel Taylor, Lynne Popash, hostess Dr. Shellie Hipsky, Lynn Banaszak, and Heather Habura

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Photo: Paul Falavolito

Photo: Paul Falavolito

SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT

Photo: Paul Falavolito

Heather Habura from WPXI and her supportive husband Chris as she is honored with the Empowering Women in Philanthropy Award for her anti-bullying work.

Alyssa Hipsky and her mother the CEO of Inspiring Lives International Dr. Shellie Hipsky

Rachel Dayoub, Kelly Frost, Dr. Shellie Hipsky, and Shannon Martinez on the red carpet at the Empowering Women in Philanthropy Awards

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BUSINESS IN THIS SECTION: Fire Up Your Finances

Jessica McCrory........................................................................ 26

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in STEM Cori Wamsley............................................................................. 30

The Value of Engaging to Retain

Deb Gray..................................................................................... 35

“If you do work that you love, and the work fulfills you, the rest will come.”

—Oprah Winfrey

FIRE

UP YOUR FINANCES

BY JESSICA MCCRORY

M

oney: the dreaded topic. It’s one of those subjects we avoid with our friends, families, coworkers, spouses, and most often with ourselves. Now is the time to have that conversation.

Stop putting your finances and your financial future on the back-burner. It’s never too late—or too soon—to begin illustrating a plan for your financial future. Set those financial and retirement goals you have been avoiding. You don’t have to do it alone. Together, we have this! Let’s get fired up about finances.

One way I encourage my clients to diversify their financial portfolios is by investing in a variety of mutual funds, each with different objectives, risk parameters, and investment themes.

In my career, I know a lot about the rewards of risk, as well as diversity. My career path itself has been diverse, taking me from a new graduate with a biology degree to customer service at an insurance company in downtown Pittsburgh, Pa. During my time there, I obtained my master’s in business administration and then my real estate license as my roles changed and diversified. I loved the job, but I felt like something was missing and a greater career opportunity was waiting for me. Then in early 2016, with the support and encouragement of my incredible husband, father, and family, I jumped on the path of becoming a financial advisor. I knew in my heart I would have an amazing mentor, my father with his over 30 years of experience and knowledge in the industry. Throughout my life, he has always been an incredible supporter, motivator, and cheerleader. Together, we would achieve my goal of being happy in my career.

IGNITE THE FINANCIAL FLAME My career path is nothing short of diverse; yet, it led me to where I am today. None of this happened to me. I sought the opportunities and took the risks. I want you do the same because you won’t achieve your financial savings and retirement goals and grow your wealth if you don’t put a plan in place and accept some of the risk that comes with investing. Too often, people say they will start planning their financial or retirement future when X, Y, or Z happens, but the time to start is now.

POWER THROUGH PLANNING— SAVING AND INVESTING Money doesn’t grow on trees. We all know that! But it also doesn’t grow by sitting in a bank account. As my father says, “Money in a bank account only accumulates. You want to grow your money.” If it’s suitable to your risk tolerance, why not let your hard-earned money work for you by investing in the market? It’s more

than investing the money; it’s about investing in your children’s future, your family’s future, and ultimately your future. It’s about planning!

FACING THE FEAR OF FINANCIAL RISK The biggest concern many people have stems from the lack of understanding on what investing and finance actually means. I am a huge believer in taking risk; however, the risk must be relative to your particular situation, tolerance, experiences, knowledge, and goals.

At the end of the day, your financial future is in your hands. The responsibility falls to you, but a financial advisor can certainly help.

Like parents, financial advisors teach, encourage, and help you grow and become independent. A financial advisor provides you with the tools and resources you need to help accumulate and protect your wealth and ultimately meet your current and future financial objectives.

This is my goal. This is my passion. I want to educate and empower you by being your advisor.

None of us learned to walk without taking the initial steps we needed to gain our sense of balance. We fell.

We held onto something along the way. Yet, we all got up and eventually walked. The journey on your financial path is similar, but let’s walk it together.

Together we will lay out a comprehensive financial path that is structured to your unique goals, objectives, and strategies now and well into the future. The journey won’t stop there. Adjustments will need to be made as things change in your life. Each new beginning creates a new opportunity for growth and adjustment.

Get fired up about your finances and secure your future today. Seek out a trusted financial advisor! While my clients are as diverse as their portfolios, my passion is working with women who own small businesses. I welcome the opportunity to work with you to help you grow your wealth!

Contact me at New Beginnings Wealth Advisors— jessicam@newbeginningswealth.com, (888) 643-4417 x225.

Jessica McCrory is an investment advisor representative of and offers securities and advisory services through Lincoln Financial Securities Corporation, Member SIPC. Lincoln Financial Securities Corporation is not affiliated with New Beginnings Wealth Advisors.

LFS-1847123-071417.

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Julie Wiles, Managing Director, Linehaul Engineering, FedEx Ground, Lauren Haag, Vice President, IT Electrical Sector, Eaton, Linda Ortenzo, Carnegie Science Center, Katharine A. Fredriksen, Senior Vice President, Health, Safety, Environmental Affairs and Diversified Business Units, CONSOL Energy Inc., Christine Bryant, Senior Vice President, Covestro

Lynne Popash

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF

WOMEN

IN STEM

By Cori Wamsley • Photography by Allison Franz

I

n June, the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce (PAAC) partnered with the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s Women's Leadership Council (WLC) to present a panel discussion featuring Women Leadership in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). The event showcased key women leaders from corporations in the Pittsburgh International Airport corridor who shared their career journeys and thoughts on mentorship and other ways to engage young women in STEM education and professions.

Proceeds partially benefitted the WLC United Women Initiative and the PAAC Enterprise Foundation 501(c) 3.

Lynne Popash, the director of the WLC, helped organize the event. “I love that our event was empowering and showcased how women are encouraging the next generation to consider these fields.” She hopes to make the event an annual occurrence.

Many women who have a passion for STEM were encouraged early in their lives, so according to Popash, “Elementary students need someone to show them that it’s cool to like math and science.” Events like the one she organized not only provide STEM role models for students, but they also show the variety of STEM careers you can explore.

Even in the 21st century, you may be surprised to learn that we still have an imbalance between men and women in STEM careers, as well as those enrolled in programs to prepare them for those jobs. According to the National Science Foundation’s website (www.nsf.gov), of the 6.4 million people employed in science and engineering fields in 2015, only 1.8 million were women, while 4.6 million were men.

Though women earn significantly more college degrees than men—and have since 1982—we are still earning fewer college degrees in STEM fields. Of the college degrees awarded in STEM fields in 2014, 41% of doctoral, 46% of master’s, 49% of bachelor’s, and 43% of associates degrees went to women.

Events that showcase women in STEM careers and encourage children to learn more about them can help bolster those numbers.

Bernie Puzzuole, President and CEO of the PAAC, said events like these are vital for doing that. “If we can show young women and girls that women really are in STEM fields—that they’re not an anomaly—and that they can be successful professionally and personally, we can open up more job opportunities for women than currently exist.”

Even those not specifically interested in STEM careers can benefit from such events. “Just learning about the different career paths in STEM was inspiring. We also had a great conversation about using our unique gifts as women in a man-dominated field to excel in our careers.” And regardless of what you do in life, mentors who encourage and guide you are always a huge game changer, as noted by the panel.

“One of the big takeaways was that you shouldn’t be afraid to try new things,” Popash said. “Apply for jobs even if you don’t have all the qualifications. Women aren’t always willing to do that, and we can miss out on opportunities that way. Don’t be afraid to take yourself out of your comfort zone.”

I spoke with some of the panelists about their careers, mentoring, and encouraging a new generation of women in STEM. Their responses were inspiring.

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Photo: Carnegie Science Center

Photo: Harry Giglio

CHRISTINE BRYANT

LINDA ORTENZO

Senior Vice President of Coatings, Adhesives, & Specialties North America, Bayer and Covestro

Director of STEM Programs Carnegie Science Center

“When I started thinking about what I could do for a career, I knew I was good at math and chemistry, so I did those for my undergrad. Then, I focused on colloids, polymers, and surfaces for my master’s work. Throughout my education, though, my teachers and professors were a huge influence. I was lucky to have such great teachers who cared about me and my future.

At the both Bayer and Covestro, both men and women helped guide and encourage me. I have always been surrounded by good, influential people who helped me along. They naturally want others who work hard to achieve, so they put me in roles that would stretch me and help me grow. I have really enjoyed my career, especially the variety of challenging roles I’ve had.

Even on bad days, I love going to work!

For females in a male-dominated industry, though, it can be challenging. Women may struggle to find their place, so they sometimes try to do their jobs like men do. We have to realize that it’s ok to be different. It’s about making the right choices for you as an individual. We will never be part of the boys’ club. We have to be who we are.

Encouraging women in STEM fields is important, but honestly, if I see anyone—men or women—with potential, I help them. I encourage everyone where I work, especially once I see where they aspire to be. I have visited high schools, too, to talk to the students about STEM careers. Early exposure is so important to spur their curiosity and interest.

For women embarking on STEM careers, be yourself, do your best, and you can do anything that anyone else can do. Surround yourself with trusted advisors, mentors, coaches, and peers because everyone needs guidance, even if you think you know the right thing to do. Once you start working, look for people who can help you.”

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“I’ve worked at Carnegie Science Center (CSC) for 22 years, helping make STEM engaging, accessible, inspiring, and fun.

For 14 years, I’ve been the director of STEM programs. The projects we do help STEM professionals engage with students, enabling conversations and communicating the excitement of their careers. The teachers say the conversations keep going after returning to the classroom, and makes what they are learning in school come to life.

We serve more than 10,000 students per year through our STEM programs. They engage in exciting activities in our middle and high school programs and showcase their creativity in our engineering competitions, as well as one of the oldest and largest science fairs in the country. Our girls programs provide a distraction-free environment for girls to explore career possibilities, discover their passion, and level the playing field. It’s so gratifying to see the impact of our programs on students’ lives A big part of my work is helping to cultivate a STEM literate community, as well as the next generation STEM work force.

By making science accessible, even if students don’t ultimately go into STEM, we are helping them value the important work that people in STEM fields do. That’s why I like working at the Science Center. I can be creative and help people build critical thinking skills and be life-long learners. I especially love helping people of all backgrounds to engage and succeed in STEM. Many women in STEM struggle to find role models, so my advice is to learn all you can about the women who have been successful and impactful and aspire to achieve just like they did.

Women who have achieved things long before their time inspire me, as well as those who do it now.

It’s important to know that women’s and men’s abilities in these fields are the same. It’s about opportunity and perseverance. I hope that any woman who enters a STEM field stays with it, and seeks support within and outside her workplace to continue to grow, achieve, and thrive.”

Photo: Redford Photography

LAUREN HAAG

KATHARINE FREDRIKSEN

Vice President of IT: Electrical Sector Eaton

Senior Vice President of Health, Safety, Environmental Affairs, and Diversified Business Units, CONSOL Energy, Inc.

“My background is diverse: math, history, and sociology for undergrad, and then educational policy and evaluation in grad school, planning a research career in academia. A short stint at Eaton in the IT department shifted my career plans, as I found that I loved the fast-pace of IT and the way I was treated at Eaton. Currently, I’m responsible for IT for the Electrical Sector of Eaton. I most enjoy solving problems and adding value to our business. It’s fun to work in a rapidly changing environment.

Eaton is really supportive of its people, which is part of our company’s core values. I’ve had a few significant life events, having gone through extended breast cancer treatment and adopting a child in Asia, both of which required personal time away.

Eaton was so supportive and encouraging during these experiences. I’ve also had extremely supportive mentors (mostly male) throughout my career who advocated for me. I’m lucky to work at a company that places an emphasis on women in leadership rolls, as demonstrated through our highly popular global WAVE (Women Adding Value at Eaton) group.

Seeing women as leaders and in STEM is so important. I always get involved in events that encourage women because many companies aren’t as focused as Eaton in helping women grow and develop. I mentor, too, because it’s important to me. I enjoy giving advice and encouragement.

Women should be themselves in their careers. Everyone brings something valuable to the table, and women should embrace their unique skillset. When you’re not being you, you are not going to be your best. Don’t ever apologize for being a female.

Be yourself. Work hard. And you will be rewarded.”

Eaton is a power management company that provides energy-efficient solutions that help our customers effectively manage electrical, hydraulic and mechanical power more efficiently, safely and sustainably. Eaton is dedicated to improving the quality of life and the environment through the use of power management technologies and services. For more information, visit Eaton.com.

Energy and environment were fundamental parts of our lives in Texas, where I grew up. I initially thought I would combine my love of scuba diving with something in the energy industry like underwater welding on the offshore drilling rigs, since I knew how to weld, too. Because that is a dangerous career, my father encouraged me to do something different, so I went to college to be a marine biologist and then graduate school to study civil and environmental engineering so I could have a greater impact on environmental issues.

I love that my career is intellectually stimulating. We develop our country’s abundant energy resources while practicing sustainable measures to balance economic development with natural resource protection. I’m very proud of what I do for a living and thoroughly enjoy doing it.

As an introvert, though, effectively articulating and advancing my vision and communicating with my colleagues and the public were tough. I had to get out of my own way for my career to flourish. I learned to speak up and actively participate in conversations. I was responsible for letting folks know what I wanted. I couldn’t wait to be recognized or for folks to guess what I wanted or needed.

As women, in general, we tend to think we need to have every single qualification for a position before raising our hands for a promotion or a different role; we don’t always recognize the strong advantage having sponsors can play in our careers. So this leads me to be much more sensitive to this predilection, and I work with women both within my own company as well as externally to help cultivate these skill sets to advance their careers.

As a young girl, I chose the path of smart versus popular. In my adult life, I fully recognize you can be both! No career is easy—they all require a lot of focus and diligence. But a STEM career will always be intellectually stimulating, will provide a world of opportunity no matter the field, and is incredibly versatile. It opens more doors than you can ever imagine.

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PROFILE

West Pittsburgh Office

Whether you’re building your career or your team, we can help!

Recruiting for a variety of positions: administrative, professional, sales, and industrial/commercial.

EMPLOYERS • Recruitment • Retention • Training & Resources

Offices in Robinson Twp. and Monaca, PA.

JOB SEEKERS • Job placement • Resources • No Fees

Call 412.494.2000 Visit ExpressPros.com KATHARINE PERRY, FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

A

financial consultant with Fort Pitt Capital Group since March 2016, and a financial professional since 2014, Katharine Perry was drawn to the wealth management industry at an early age. Her parents— both involved in business—instilled in her the importance of financial acuity. This, coupled with her decision to pursue a psychology degree at the University of Pittsburgh, has allowed her to uniquely hone in on behavioral finance and help regional clients with long-term wealth management plans today.

An emerging professional herself, Perry feels she is especially well poised to assist millennial females. They are an underserved market in the industry, so educating this demographic on personal finance and investment know-how is a passion that Perry plans to pursue.

Given her client-first philosophy and behavioral finance expertise, Perry looks forward to not only helping young professionals with finances, but to truly guiding them toward long-term financial success.

FORTPITTCAPITAL.COM 680 ANDERSEN DRIVE • FOSTER PLAZA TEN PITTSBURGH, PA 15220

BUSINESS

THE VALUE OF ENGAGING TO RETAIN

I

want to share a brief, personal story—a glimpse of a full, meaningful life and a reflection of living leadership. I recently lost my father, who, at almost 89, was a wonderful mentor and supporter of my mom, my four siblings and their spouses, seven grandchildren, and me. Dad was an architect—a true builder. All my life I watched him work through the details.

Whether it was building our house when I was eight, building a tree house, a gazebo, a deck, digging a French drain for my sister’s house, helping me renovate two houses over 50 years old, or working on the many banks and colleges; he knew every little thing that would contribute to a sound architectural outcome.

I did not know until years later how much time Dad put into the relationships of his business life; he knew someone in every construction, engineering, architectural, and trade industry. He retired in 1997, and at his funeral, this past March, 20 years later, we were overwhelmed by the number of coworkers who came to pay their respects. Each one had a story of what Dad taught them and what they learned from him. He was successful because he cared—a lot. He was patient, more patient than most and he only showed his impatience when someone took a shortcut. He truly felt there was only one way to do any job: the right way.

For him, it was not about his way, though as I worked with him, I learned from him and often thought it was about doing the work his way when, in fact, it was only about researching, preparing, planning, and then doing. It was about taking your time. We were at odds only when I wanted to do things “too fast” for him. He was teaching me all the steps of the process.

I would like to challenge employers to think about who taught you, who was your mentor? Who helped you learn? Who helped you problem-solve daily tasks, activities, and work processes and work through work issues and difficulties? Take notice of who helped you, and work at paying it forward for your employees.

Employers: find a way to pass it along and help your team members; delegate to them so they grow. Recognize the difference between delegating and abdicating. Be aware of the situational disposition of each and every team member. Customize your support of them or steer them to someone who can.

We—in every workplace today— are in a dilemma. A dilemma of finding workers who want to learn and grow in their job/career OR grow their job into their career. It is imperative that we—the

Photo: Karen Bartos

By Deb Gray

leaders—lead the charge to change how we help the new workforce along.

Once you hire a worker (I remind you that it costs on average $2K to hire and onboard a new employee), work at retaining them instead of documenting their mistakes. Coach them to success. Share in their path of learning and growth by delegating with a plan for success. Talk about the mistakes, course correct, and realign and applaud the resilience of your worker when they overcome any little obstacle. This is a very age-old approach of working at the basics (on-the-job training). Like many difficult tasks, this will take guts and grit to stay the course. Be patient.

Have infinite patience. Most likely, there will be ups and downs along the way. Plan for them. Help with the details, teach best practices, and do not assume anything. Consistently coach. Help build confidence and ability concurrently.

A wonderful reference for any leader is Angela Duckworth’s GRIT: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. To quote: “If you hire talent, then ensure your culture and your actions cultivate talent.”

I challenge you—the leader—to engage your work team to retain them and later celebrate the wins together. You will delight in having a team that is self-accountable and can self-manage.

To this day, I ask myself, “What would Dad do?” Thank you, Dad. n Deb Gray, owner of the award-winning Pittsburgh West office of Express Employment Professionals, is an active business leader in the regional community. She is a passionate supporter of the Express Employment Professionals “Engage to Retain” program—a supervisory training program building employee retention through onboarding and development. This training program, intended for managers and supervisors, addresses two key components of an effective employee retention strategy: onboarding new employees and the importance of ongoing development.

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BUSINESS PROFILE

HEFREN-TILLOTSON

P

atty John and her daughter Jamie Roach look alike, sometimes even act alike. They are often mistaken as sisters. So much so, the duo came in first place in the annual Mother-Daughter look-alike contest a local mall a few years ago. They work as a team, most likely, the only Mother-Daughter financial planning team in the Pittsburgh area.

You can find the two at Hefren-Tillotson’s South Hills office, where Patty is a Vice President and Jamie a Financial Advisor.

This mother-daughter team finds their purpose helping people establish and achieve their financial goals, bringing comfort and understanding to financial planning and investing.

Patty has been a registered financial advisor for over 20 years. Early in her career she began servicing her clients as their “Most Trusted Advisor.” Understanding client goals both personally and financially has always been priority. “To best service our clients, it’s important that we know about their lives, ideas about money, values and ultimately what inspires them,” Patty shares.

Sharing her mother’s passion to help, Jamie joined her team about three years ago. Together, they join their clients on the path of their financial journey, eager to help chart the course of success as life changes. Determining goals and priorities helps them develop a plan to best suit their clients’ short-term and long-term goals. Patty and Jamie maintain lasting relationships with their clients, knowing who they are as investors and as people.

When you meet with them you’ll see Hefren-Tillotson’s Mission Vision and Values on display on their desks and in their actions. You will probably also see a lot of children’s artwork on the walls, too! They will take the time they need to get to know you, and for you to get to know them. Their offer for you to feel free to call them anytime is as genuine as their desire to help you.

Just as they look similar to each other, they probably look and seem similar to you. The people and businesses they serve today are just as diverse as their background. They’ll help you understand your money and what it means to you.

Patty and Jamie, offer comprehensive financial planning and investment management services for individuals, families, and qualified retirement plans. They work to develop strategies to achieve goals in the areas of investments, insurance, retirement, estate, and tax planning. They also partner with Hefren-Tillotson’s Corporate Services department to provide corporate retirement plan management.

You can reach Patty and Jamie at 412-633-1701 or jamie.roach@hefren.com or patricia.john@hefren.com.

HEFREN.COM

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTREPRENEURS

CULTURE IN THIS SECTION: Different is Beautiful

Samantha Barna................................................ 42

BOOK REVIEW: The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity

Tracy Rasmussen................................................ 45

FILM REVIEW: Served Like a Girl

Jess Branas........................................................ 47

The Global Sisterhood Takes on Vegas!

Valerie Lerch...................................................... 49

REVIEW: Britney Spears: “Piece of Me” in Vegas

Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................ 50

“Creativity takes courage” —Henri Matisse

Photo: Franklin Thompson

Different is

BEAUTIFUL an Interview with Alison Midstokke Interviewed by Samantha Barna

Barna: Can you tell us a little more about yourself and your story?

Midstokke: Sure. I have been modeling since I was 15, and I am a professional hand model. I also did a lot of theater work and acting classes when I was a kid, but I never thought I would get into acting. I wanted to break into the fashion industry as a designer and model my own clothing. Now I am getting cast in films. I was cast in Chained for Life, which is about a film crew making movies about facial deformities, and a lot of the actors in the movie have facial deformities similar to the movie Freaks from the 1920s or ‘30s. It’s really good.

And I just finished filming Happy Face in Montreal, Canada.

Barna: That’s wonderful. Can you talk about Treacher Collins and how it has impacted your life?

Midstokke: Basically, Treacher Collins is genetic, and it affects the bone growth in the face. It’s different for everyone with different levels of severity. I have had nearly 100 surgeries, so the hospital is like a second home to me.

Barna: When you were growing up, did you endure bullying, or were your classmates pretty cool?

Midstokke: My classmates were pretty cool. I was treated differently for sure but not bullied. They are more laid back on the west coast—I grew up in northern Idaho. Plus, I was really outgoing, the type of kid that scared bullies away. Still, I was never 100% accepted.

When I still lived there, I worked in an office, which was like the opposite of The Devil Wears Prada. A girl in the fashion industry stepped into a regular office environment, like the office of sanitation. I took whatever job I could get and wondered “Why am I here?” Then I realized that the universe was preparing me for the future. There is a lot of scrutiny in that setting. Before I used to care so much about what people thought of me, but after that, I didn’t care at all. The most important thing is that you know who you are as a person. I know who I am. I know who I want to bring into my life and my relationship with God because that is important, too.

Barna: How did you overcome any negativity and stay confident both on and off camera?

Midstokke: I like meditation. I like to visualize positivity.

I visualize anything negative disappearing. If someone is harassing me, I visualize that person vanishing into thin air.

Barna: Can you tell us about your volunteer work?

Midstokke: I live in New York City now, and I was on the young professional board for myFace.org to raise awareness for individuals with physical disabilities. They are associated with NYU. I raised $13,000 the first year. I introduced artists to the organization to help raise awareness.

I also connect with other organizations like Faces, where people can turn when they need tips and advice or to commiserate. I hope in the future I can do public speaking and help people establish a career, overcome obstacles, and build self-esteem.

The thing about success is that you just take a step and think “What do I do to get to the next level?” Some people don’t realize it’s a step-by-step process.

Barna: What or who inspires you?

Midstokke: General Romeo Dallaire who worked for the United Nation’s peacekeeping force in Rwanda between 1992 and 1994. He was there to stop the genocide, and he stayed behind to help those people. He is a real hero. Another person is Helen Keller; she is remarkable. I watched a video about how she would put her hands on her interpreter’s throat to learn words. Then she was able to speak. It was so cool, amazing, and remarkable to see an actual video of her talking.

Barna: What advice do you have for children with Treacher Collins?

Midstokke: You can do anything as long as you are open to improving yourself. You have to do the work just like anyone else, and hard work does pay off. If you want respect, you have to earn it. The world is full of opportunities not limitations. n

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BOOK REVIEW

ESTHER PEREL, THE STATE OF AFFAIRS: RETHINKING INFIDELITY

By Tracy Rasmussen Perel conducted in her own international practice, there is a chance for healing, and that healing can come in a variety of choices and decisions. Throw the bum out, be a party to her explorations, turn a blind eye, end the affair and move on are all ways that couples have found healing either singly or together.

The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity is not a book that you like or dislike. It’s a book that explains instead of excuses infidelity, and that ultimately makes it important reading in a culture where the infidelity rate clearly outdistances the divorce rate.

Perel writes that she hopes it doesn’t happen to your relationship, but if it does, she—and this book—can help you understand. And from that comes healing. n

Tracy Rasmussen is an essayist and co-author of The Verbal Behavior Approach: How to Teach Children with Autism and Related Disorders.

Esther Perel signs her book, The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity.

Photo: Marla Aufmuth/Getty Images

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he current that runs through couples therapist Esther Perel’s The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity is both electrifying and comforting. Anyone can have an affair.

Anyone can survive an affair. An affair can be devastating. An affair can be transformative.

And while this may not be news to couples who have been devastated and/or transformed by an affair, seeing it all laid out in thoughtful, well-written prose easily shows the depth and breadth of infidelity and the deep, complicated ripples of its wake.

So, those who have been hurt will feel comfort in the stories of others who have been hurt.

And those who have stayed silent will find comfort from those who have been able to give their pain voice.

And those who found a way back will see that they, too, are not alone in wanting to create a relationship that is fully whole in a way that works for them.

But this book is perhaps most instructive to those who are in hurting marriages. It offers hope that, based on the research

FILM REVIEW SERVED LIKE A GIRL

By Jess Branas

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Some of these powerful women are now competing for the title of Ms. Veteran America. This platform creates a sisterhood and a camaraderie that are as strong as oak. Having the honor of attending the pageant, not only am I in awe of the women donning gowns with combat boots who can rock more push-ups than most men, but I also thank Heslov for helping share their remarkable voices through this documentary.

Bolstered with a soundtrack featuring artists such as Pat Benatar, Pink, Gwen Stefani, and Christina Aguilera, Served Like a Girl is compelling and inspirational. Watching these women as they learn to weave themselves back into civilian life, acknowledging their beauty, brains, and brawn with the pageant and being strong role models for the next generation of women warriors, I can tell you that this documentary truly is a mustsee! Served Like a Girl can be found on iTunes, Google Play, and YouTube. n

Photo: Sunshine Sachs

he riveting documentary Served Like a Girl, directed by Lysa Heslov, takes an honest and real look at the women who defend our country and fight for our freedom. The film highlights several vets on their journey to compete for the Ms. Veteran America title, and their stories make you laugh, bring you to tears, and create a sense of pride in the hearts and minds of women everywhere.

The Ms. Veteran America pageant, founded by Army Major Jas Boothe, helps support homeless female veterans. Inspired by personal experience, Major Boothe has become an agent of change by spreading awareness about the needs of our women vets. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, there are 2,051,484 female vets as of September 2016, with an estimated 50,000 who are also mothers. These are women who served with integrity and are now sharing their stories of death, illness, injury, trauma, homelessness, and much more.

Master Sergeant Denyse Gordon, Sergeant First Class Joanne Makay, Master At Arms First ClassWINTER Hope2018 Garcia, Lieutenant Commander 47 INSPIRING LIVES Rachel Engler, Major Jas Boothe, Sergeant Nichole Alred and Sergeant Andrea Waterbury

Photo: Mitch Mitchell

The Global Sisterhood Takes on Vegas!

By Valerie Lerch

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s a board member of the Global Sisterhood, I was thrilled to accompany Dr. Shellie Hipsky to the Chicks Connect Convention in Las Vegas, Nev., this past January. Chicks Connect is a powerful group of women who encourage networking and building connections, and they have several chapters around the country.

I was lucky enough to meet the founder, Julie “Jewels” Muller through the Baltimore Women’s Show and was excited to spend some time with her and her ‘Chicks” in Vegas, including Tiffany Almazan, Head Chick of the Vegas chapter. Muller and I spent some quality time connecting, and I learned a great deal about Chicks Connect and how it can greatly benefit all women!

arrived prepared to start on time and provide massive value for the women. We introduced ourselves, we worked on an activity together, “Identifying our Ideal Client,” and we shared what support we needed personally and professionally. So much love and support poured out of that first meeting, and the women were thrilled and wanted to have a second meeting.

When looking to trademark the name I ran into some challenges, and it was at that point that I followed my instincts and my son’s advice and went with Chicks Connect! Today, I celebrate the members of Chicks Connect, the affiliates who help us spread the movement, our expert trainers and supporters, my family, and all of you who believed this was possible.

Lerch: What inspired you to create this amazing group for women in business?

Muller: When I started my path as an entrepreneur, I realized that women were hiring me to do the things that girlfriends used to do for one another. Women had become disconnected, overwhelmed, and overworked and weren’t focusing on friendship or self-care because there simply wasn’t enough time in the day. My heart was full of love and support for these women, and I continued working with them on their organizing projects and personal coaching.

On the 10th of November 2010, women joined together at Chuck’s Coffee in Lake Oswego, Ore., to have a meeting called Chicks in Business. Twelve beautiful women responded to my Evite, and we secured the biggest table in the coffee shop. I

Lerch: What have your members gained personally from being a member of Chicks Connect?

Muller: From a Chicks Connect member “I have really enjoyed and benefited from the support and friendship I have through Chicks Connect. Anymore, I really can’t imagine my life without this support. The women in my chapter have encouraged me, motivated me, and helped me to hold myself more accountable.” —Laureen Quick The Vegas Chicks Connect Chapter also donated books for the Global Sisterhood to deliver to Zion Education Center at New Light (Sharon, Pa.). Not only did we meet some amazing ladies from Chicks Connect, but our own Dr. Shellie Hipsky got to meet the fabulous Britney Spears! What an inspirational and empowering weekend it was with these ladies! n

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Photo: Kodak for Caesar’s Entertainment

Photo: Dr. Shellie Hipsky

Britney Spears electrifies the crowd with her high-energy Vegas show.

Spears with Inspiring Lives Magazine's Editor-in-Chief Dr. Shellie Hipsky

REVIEW

BRITNEY SPEARS: “PIECE OF ME” IN VEGAS

By Dr. Shellie HIpsky

I

have to agree with Britney Spears’s statement that “The energy that you feel before the show is so much fun!” I was excited to experience that in Vegas with the pop music icon herself.

When I met Spears before her Axis Planet Hollywood's Vegas show, I was slightly caught off guard by the seemingly shy Southern gal. She was wearing jeans, and she greeted people backstage with a sweet smile and kind words.

It was as if she was a completely different person a few brief hours later. She owned the stage with her dancers during the 21 songs chosen from her epic career. The flashy sparkling costumes, incredible props, and impressive sets wowed the crowd of over 4,000 dancing fans. Spears is an amazing performer who commands the stage and crushes her moves in the intensely choreographed routines.

The costumes were fabulous and paid homage to her music videos and beloved performances over the years, while adding new touches for the Vegas production. Designer Marco Marco

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(who has designed for stars from Katy Perry to Cher) took great care to create special pieces for Spears.

I was blown away when she bungeed-jumped down from a tree wearing a shimmering green costume. She rocked a pair of stunning huge angel wings as she gracefully soared through the air on the stage. And while preening in a fabulous ring master outfit, she skillfully danced near a ring of fire to the song “Circus.” Great care was taken to visually create complete stories with each song. It was almost as if the audience were immersed in multiple music videos.

I have seen many musical and concert productions, and yet not many held a candle to the blazing fire on the stage that Spears created with her team. This fun, over-the-top show is a must see for Britney Spears fans and those who simply love a big Vegas-style performance! n

FOOD & TRAVEL IN THIS SECTION: Lidia: The Master Italian Chef Whips Up Divine Dishes with a Side of Inspiration

Dr. Shellie Hipsky....................................................................... 52

Savor Pittsburgh Benefits Women’s and Children’s Health

Dr. Shellie Hipsky....................................................................... 55

RESTAURANT REVIEW: Jackson’s Restaurant & Bar

Marci Radcliffe........................................................................... 56

Passport to Inspiration: Hot Springs, Arkansas

Kim Adley..................................................................................... 58

“There is no sincerer love than the love of food.”

—George Bernard Shaw

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LIDIA

The Master Italian Chef Whips Up Divine Dishes with a Side of Inspiration Lidia and her daughter co-own Lidia’s Pittsburgh, and I had the great honor of being able to break bread, indulge in a magnificent meal she whipped up, and enjoy a glass of vino with this legendary Italian chef. Lidia Matticcho Bastianich is the Emmy-Award-winning host of public television’s Lidia’s Kitchen, owner of 6 successful restaurants, and author of 12 cookbooks!

Lidia is an incredible entrepreneur who is a partner in the esteemed Eataly, which has locations in New York, San Paulo (Brazil), Chicago, Boston, and Los Angeles.

Eataly, is the largest artisanal Italian food and wine marketplace in the world. But she doesn’t stop there with her savory delights for the palate. She also has a line of pastas and all natural sauces called, of course, “Lidia’s.”

Plus, Lidia is the president and founder of Travolta Productions, an entertainment production company.

Dr. Shellie: First of all, thank you a million times for this incredible meal that you have prepared for my Inspiring Lives Magazine team and me. It is a joy to eat such amazing food prepared by one of the world’s greatest chefs, especially at Lidia’s Pittsburgh, since this is my hometown. Tell us about your journey so far.

Lidia: My journey has been long, with lots of work, but it has been a journey of unexpected success. In retrospect, I see that you have to work, you have to give, and be part of something that you believe in and put thought into it, and then it happens. That is how it works!

Dr. Shellie: Let’s talk about how you attained international success as a chef and entrepreneur. You are an Emmy Award-winner. How did you get to that level of success on television?

Lidia: I opened my first restaurant in 1971, but I opened Lidia’s in 1981, and it was then that I became a full-fledged chef (I wasn’t a chef right away). I be-

Photo: Perfect Image Photography

By Dr. Shellie Hipsky

gan cooking regional Italian cuisine, which was sort of novelty in the states.

Julia Child was responsible for me being on public television. Together we did two episodes of her Master Chef series. The producer liked what I did and asked if I would like to do television.

It didn’t take long for me to recognize what a great opportunity it would be to share my passion with all of America. I got into television, and my daughter, who got her Ph.D. in art history from Oxford, got into the business. She co-authors my books, and we decided to start our own production company,

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FOOD & TRAVEL Travolta Productions, and ultimately, that is how we got the Emmy.

Dr. Shellie: You have one daughter?

Lidia: Yes, one daughter and my son Joseph. Joseph got his degree in business and went to Wall Street but then decided to come back and work with mom and dad. It is a great honor to work with my children.

I was an immigrant. I came here when I was twelve years old.

For me, it was very important that they get their education and become part of America. Now, I have my whole family around me, and it propels the business. I just love working with them.

Dr. Shellie (laughing with Lidia): Entrepreneurship is viral! So, are a lot of the recipes based on family traditions?”

Lidia: Many of them began with family and what we cooked at home. But my message is one of transporting the Italian culture. When I came here at twelve years old, I was very Italian. I got a new culture, a beautiful new culture. I have what I think are two of the most wonderful cultures in the world. Then, I combined Italian creativity, beauty, taste, and smell with American business and marketing savvy.

Dr. Shellie: It’s working!

Lidia: What I found out is that America loves Italian. I am wedded to the real Italian traditional regional cuisine and products and lifestyle. I bring it here to my other family…the American family.

Dr. Shellie: What part of Italy is your biggest influence?

Lidia: I come from the Northeast…so we are talking about rice, pudding, prosciutto, and all of that. I have been back to Italy many, many times a year ever since. And Italy is just beautiful all over. I love things that are in season and as natural as possible.

Dr. Shellie: What would be your favorite meal to share with a loved one?

Lidia: Of course, pasta of some type. I love fish and vegetables. It all depends on the season. What I hear a lot from busy

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Photo: Perfect Image Photography

Dr. Shellie: This is so aligned with who I am. I have two young children. They joke that they could easily take over my business.

Lidia: Good! That is because you include them. I used to push them away from the business. I would say over and over, “Get an education!” They did. Yet, they came back. While they were growing up, they were in the restaurant with me and my husband, so it was inevitable. They would eat dinner there and then go home with grandma and sleep. When we went back to Italy to do research, they always came with us. I infected them with this disease if you will.

ladies—and I don’t buy it—is, “I can’t cook anything. I don’t have time to cook anything.” That is just not so. You can cook pasta marinara in twenty minutes, and you have a nice meal.

You can add some shrimp to it and some vegetables.

I think they don’t trust themselves. They don’t think they can do it, but everybody knows how to handle food. I would tell them to use food as a nutrient but also to nurture and express emotion. Love. Sharing. Time. Food is a communicator. It takes you places. So get in the kitchen, and do a little sharing with the ones you love! n

Photo: Robert Hester III

Savor Pittsburgh emcees Larry Richert and Susan Koeppen

Savor Pittsburgh Benefits Women’s and Children’s Health

By Dr. Shellie Hipsky

S

avor Pittsburgh raised a quarter of a million dollars to support women’s and infants’ health research at Magee-Women’s Research Institute and Foundation. On September 28, 2017, around 1,400 people gathered at the Petersen Events Center to support Magee’s mission.

Guests enjoyed live music by No Bad Juju and Chris Jamison, 38 dishes from 24 of Pittsburgh’s premier restaurants, signature cocktails, and amazing auction and raffle prizes.

Savor Pittsburgh has partnered with Magee-Women’s Research Institute and Foundation for six years and has raised incredible awareness for the cause. 2017 was the first year that Savor extended its contributions to both women’s and infants’ health research, which led UPMC to match all funds raised at the event.

Magee-Women’s Research Institute is the largest independent research institute in the United States focused solely on women’s and infants’ health research. More than 100 nationally recognized physician-scientists are engaged in groundbreaking research spanning diverse aspects of women’s health.

Here are just a few of the ways that Magee is making a difference: Pregnancy and Newborns – Scientists continue to make lifesaving discoveries about key diseases such as preeclampsia, fetal growth abnormalities, preterm birth, prenatal genetics, and the lifelong impact of those diseases. Nearly 11,000 babies are born at Magee each year, and their cutting-edge Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is the largest in the country.

Fertility and Infertility – Scientists are delving deeply into the fundamental mechanisms that govern germ cell biology and pathways that lead to human infertility, to discover means for restoring fertility to diverse populations, including young cancer patients.

Women’s Cancers – The institute’s advancements in detecting and treating breast, ovarian, cervical, and other cancers has transformed deadly diseases into ones that are survivable and manageable.

To learn more or to make a donation, please visit mageewomens.org. n

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The main dining room at Jackson’s.

Jackson’s divine filet with wild mushroom bordelaise and five-onion tartlet

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

JACKSON’S RESTAURANT & BAR•CANONSBURG, PA

By Marci Radcliffe • Photos by Jackson’s Restaurant & Bar Dining at Jackson’s recently was a fantastic experience.

Jackson’s is nestled in the corporate meeting haven of Southpointe, conveniently located just off of I-79. It’s just moments away from downtown Pittsburgh stadiums, Meadows Racetrack and Casino, and Tanger Outlets. Surrounded by Washington County’s countryside, you will find yourself near multiple historic covered bridges as well as nationally known Sarris Chocolate Factory.

I arranged a dinner for 25 in Jackson’s gorgeous private room. We started with the field greens salad, which consisted of baby greens, strawberries, candied walnuts, and goat cheese handed down from Zeus himself, all of this was topped off with aged balsamic vinegar and oil.

Next the filet came. The first cut confirmed the greatness and creativity of this staff and restaurant. It was perfectly cooked to medium-rare temperature, and the juices ran to meet the wild mushroom bordelaise. Nestled next to this bed

of mushroom deliciousness was the five-onion tartlet, cooked to perfection with a tender center in a crisp flaky bed.

After dinner, we ordered dessert. Along with my double espresso, I choose the tiramisu. I’m a tiramisu snob—I love this Italian dish! Jackson’s presented theirs in a molded chocolate mug with a white and milk chocolate straw and topped with fresh whipped cream. The layers of mascarpone and coffee liqueur-soaked lady fingers were what dreams are made of. The design on the plate was raspberry glaze with white and dark chocolate in a beautiful braid design.

The staff was wonderfully attentive, and the large party didn’t affect service an iota. Thank you, thank you, Jackson’s, for a wonderful night. n Location: 1000 Corporate Dr, Canonsburg, PA 15317 Price Range: $30 and under Attire: Casual Elegant experiencejacksons.com

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L VA I R

L VA RI

RIVAL • AR AR

Photo: Ray Feather

RIVAL • AR AR

HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS

By Kim Adley • Photography by Kim Adley AMERICA’S FIRST SPA It is important to take time to clear the mind. It is important to take time to rest the body. It is important to rejuvenate, reenergize, and focus our intentions. Ha! Easier said than done! I agree. Today’s women are on overload. It is so difficult to set aside time to be mindful and kind to ourselves, even when we know it’s important. Some days I can feel when my inner “fuel tank” is running on empty. It’s those days I know I need to take a step back, take a deep breath, and do something just for me. I find it’s hard to even admit I need to take care of me, let alone actually do it. But I’m here to tell you that we must take time to rejuvenate because we cannot take care of others, if we don’t take care of ourselves first. So… when you get that feeling of overwhelm, it’s time to shut it down and do something just for you.

That is exactly what I did last winter when I ran off in search of escape and found the healing waters of America’s first spa in Hot Springs, Ark. Located 55 miles southwest of Little Rock, in the Quachita Mountains is beautiful Hot Springs National Park. The area is dense with forests of oak, hickory, and pine but has an abundance of flowering trees as well, which makes this place especially beautiful in the spring. More than 40 years before Yellowstone became the first national park, President Andrew Jackson set aside this beautiful parcel of land in 1832 to protect its major natural resource—hot springs. It was the first U.S. reservation created to protect a natural resource.

In the years that followed, more and more people sought the healing waters for ailments like rheumatism and arthritis, and by the mid-1800s, bathhouses became part of the landscape. The early structures were crude canvas and wood huts, but by the late 1800s, the bathhouses of Hot Springs, rivaled the beautiful spas of Europe. Soon large luxurious hotels were built to cater to wealthy patrons. Eventually the U.S government provided free bathhouses for those who could not pay for baths recommended by their physicians. It wasn’t long after that that Hot Springs came to be called “The American Spa.”

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By 1921, the Hot Springs Reservation became the 18th National Park, and monumental, elaborate bathhouses were built along Bathhouse Row that catered to health and wellness seekers. They had the latest equipment for pampering in elaborate surroundings decorated with marble, brass, murals, fountains, stained glass, and statues. They had gymnasiums and beauty shops as well as the hot baths to help patrons look and feel better. Sound familiar? Yes, but this was 1921.

It really was America’s First Spa. During this golden age of bathing over a million visitors immersed themselves in the hot waters of Hot Springs.

You may wonder, what makes the water so special? It is guaranteed safe to drink and is tested regularly by the National Park Service. It contains a variety of minerals but is colorless, odorless and tasteless. It rises from a depth of 8,000 feet. On average 700,000 gallons are collected from the springs daily at a temperature of 143°F. You can even take some healing water home with you from multiple fountains within the town to “fill your own jug.”

The historic buildings in Bathhouse Row remain part of the National Park today, and their architecture is amazing.

Some still operate as spas, while others are history museums, art galleries, and even a micro-brewery. The Quawpaw and Buckstaff Bathhouses offer modern spa services with a coed bathing pool where you can bathe in the healing waters like thousands before you. But after your rejuvenating soak, make sure you get a massage and a mani-pedi too. You deserve it!

After your pampering, be sure to take a leisurely stroll down Central Avenue and enjoy the many charming gift shops, art galleries, antique stores, and unique eateries. I stopped at the historic Ohio Club, established in 1905. It is the oldest operating saloon in Hot Springs. Some of the bar’s famous visitors have included Mae West, Al Jolson, Sammy Davis Jr., and Babe Ruth, along with American Presidents Teddy Roosevelt, Herbert Hoover, and Arkansas’s own favorite son, Bill Clinton. Just about every gangster you can imagine probably had a drink there too. After lunch, I was curious and visited The Gangster Museum of America to learn about the infamous fellas who brought gambling to Hot Springs.

A public hot spring water fountain and shady oasis in downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas The Quapaw Bathhouse is now a modern day spa with thermal bathing pools and a full service salon

The Fordyce Bathhouse, the largest and most ornate along Bathhouse Row, is now a museum and Hot Springs National Park Visitors Center.

And yes, Oaklawn Park, a casino and a horse track, is still just outside the national park limits.

The city of Hot Springs, once known as Spa City, is now known as an art town. It is ranked fourth on the list of 100 Best Art Towns in America. A fun gallery walk happens the first Friday of every month, and music festivals occur throughout the

The Central Avenue Historic District offers unique shopping, art galleries and dining.

year. The weather is temperate all year long, so no matter when you go, many outdoor activities are available.

Hot Springs is waiting for you, but in the meantime, don’t wait to rest and rejuvenate. I feel fairly certain, there is a welcoming locally owned spa in your neighborhood that can provide the perfect escape and respite from your busy day. You deserve it! n

IF YOU GO: • Hot Springs National Park www.nps.gov/hosp

• The Gangster Museum of America www.tgmoa.com

• Quawpaw Baths & Spa www.quapawbaths.com

• Superior Bathhouse Brewery www.SuperiorBathhouse.com

• The Buckstaff Bathhouse www.buckstaff baths.com • The Ohio Club www.theohioclub.com

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• Oaklawn Racing and Gaming www.oaklawn.com

Visitors to Hot Springs are encouraged to take the thermal spring water home with them. Souvenir bottles are available for purchase at the Visitor Center.

An Art Deco stained glass ceiling in historic Bathhouse Row.

The Superior Bathhouse is now a brewery and restaurant offering “Hot Springs on Tap” and brews the “world’s only beer made with thermal spring water.”

HEALTH & WELLNESS IN THIS SECTION: A Morning Ritual to Boost Productivity by a Whopping 30%

Pamela Power Scanlon, M.S................................................... 64

A Shot that Echoed in Dulcet Tones

Cori Wamsley............................................................................. 67

The Alexis Joy Foundation: Support for the Baby Blues

Alice Beckett-Rumberger.......................................................... 69

Total Sports Enterprises and #TeamJuJu Team Up for The Homeless Children’s Education Fund

Rachael Rennebeck................................................................... 71

“I have chosen to be happy because it is good for my health.”

—Voltaire

A MORNING RITUAL to Boost Productivity by a Whopping 30%

by Pamela Power Scanlon, M.S.

THE ENERGY CRUSHER I get it. It’s rough to get up without hitting the snooze button. The fact that most of us get less than the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep a night means that when our alarms go off, our bodies are still in deep-sleep mode and our core temperatures are low.

This makes it very tempting to stay tucked under our cozy blankets for an extra 10-20 minutes.

But did you know that hitting the snooze button actually confuses your brain? Your body releases chemicals when it’s time to wake up and different ones when it’s time to sleep. The cycle of waking to the alarm and then hitting snooze and going back to sleep results in sleep inertia, or that cobweb-type grogginess that a morning cup of joe can’t even clear.

And it can last anywhere from 15 minutes to 4 hours!

During that time period, your memory, ability to make decisions, and critical thinking are slowed, and the lagging effect can negatively impact your productivity for the rest of the day.

That’s not all. Hitting snooze also messes up your natural sleep cycle. Each time you wake up and go back to sleep, your brain gets new information about when it’s time to wake up and when it’s time to sleep.

The result? Less quality rest throughout the night.

Not to mention that jarring alarm sound. Exposing ourselves to that sound two or three times can actually cause irritability and affect our mood!

Do you feel ready to conquer the world when you wake up groggy, tired, and irritable?

One way to deal with this is to adjust your alarm to the time you have to get out of bed, enjoy the extra rest, then just get up. But I want to offer you another

option that will help you perform at your highest throughout the day.

REPLACE THAT ENERGY-CRUSHING HABIT WITH A PRODUCTIVITY-BOOSTING HABIT The most effective way of breaking a bad habit is to replace it with a new behavior. What if you used that 20 or so minutes to stimulate brain clarity instead of brain confusion? What if instead of staying under your covers dreading to get out of bed, you create a decadent ritual that turns these 20 minutes into one of the most pleasurable parts of your day?

There’s a sweet spot in the morning when your mind is fresh and clear from the night before. It’s that time when you feel like you’re not fully awake. This is when your body is most open and receptive, and when the opportunity to align your body, mind, and spirit is the greatest.

Alignment significantly impacts productivity. The more alignment you experience, the more tuned in you stay to what lights you up, and the more space you create for clearer thinking, deeper concentration, sharper focus, enhanced creativity, increased energy, and so on.

The key to making this ritual the most effective is to do it before we check texts, email, social media, the news, etc. The world’s leading high performance coach, Brendon Burchard, says that checking into social media in the first hour of the day decreases productivity by 30%. When we do, we tune into other’s needs and wants, and away from our own. We shift into reaction mode, rather than creation mode.

How do we tune in and turn on?

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HEALTH & WELLNESS STEPS FOR A HIGH PERFORMANCE MORNING RITUAL

1) When the alarm rings, stand up and walk to the alarm to turn it off (put it out of reach)!

2) Drink the full 16 oz. glass of water that you prepared the night before for rehydration, a metabolism jumpstart, and an energy boost.

3) Go to a quiet place in your house where you can be uninterrupted for 20 mins.

4) Turn on meditative music, such as the Calm Meditation Radio station on Pandora.

5) Sit comfortably or lie on your back. Place your palms face up in a receptive position.

6) With your mind relaxed, slowly and deeply inhale and exhale. Focus on feeling the breath wake up all of your cells.

7) Thank God, Spirit, the Universe, your Source Energy for this new day.

8)

Concentrate on the feelings you want to experience today, like clarity, balance, confidence, lightheartedness, inner peace, love, joy, excitement, energy, empathy, etc.

Let these feelings permeate your heart and mind.

9)

State your intention for the day. I often say, “Today I will notice when the negative chatter in my head affects my performance. I will take a moment to move out of my head and into my heart. I will continue my day from a place of alignment between my head and my heart.�

10) Focus on your intention and the feelings you want to experience until you feel your mind begin to wander.

11) Do some stretches or yoga to stimulate blood flow so all the feel-good chemicals can pass easily throughout your body.

Try this ritual every workday for 2 weeks. Rate your productivity on a scale of 1-10 and make notes of you how feel each day. The more you practice, the more natural this process will become and the easier it will be to get up at the first alarm ring.

Your body will reward you with positive vibes so that you stay in your flow all day regardless of all the stuff happening around you!

If you need help making this ritual work for you (suggestions for music, guided meditations, or clearing energy blocks), email me at pamela@wellroundedwellness.com. For more articles like this or to sign up for my newsletter, visit my blog at http://wellroundedwellness.com/blog. n

A SHOT THAT ECHOED IN DULCET TONES

By Cori Wamsley

T

wo years after being shot in the face, Carlton Leeper is still singing.

But in the hospital after the June 6, 2015, incident, doctors were skeptical that Leeper would ever return to his passion. “Dr. Dalton [an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Allegheny General Hospital] said that my jaw looked like a jigsaw puzzle with pieces missing, but I told the doctors I would sing again.”

Leeper’s determination—as well as his positive outlook— played a huge part in his recovery. “Everyone was concerned that I would have PTSD, but I was fine. I was joyous. The night it happened, I prayed that I wouldn’t die. When I woke up in the hospital and realized I was alive, I was grateful and thankful. I had come face to face with my mortality, and my heart was transformed because I survived.”

Leeper had been picking up his son when a car pulled up beside them, and shots were fired at Leeper and his son. Leeper took one bullet in his right cheek, which bounced around in his mouth, knocking out half his teeth, ripping through his tongue, and finally lodging near the joint in his left jaw. His son was unharmed. In the hospital, Leeper’s doctor inserted both permanent and temporary titanium plates to hold the bones together as they healed. As for the shooter, he was never tracked down, and Leeper believes the incident to be due to mistaken identity.

The outpouring of love and support that Leeper received afterward showed just how much his friends, family, and coDr. Jim O’Toole workers care. “My friends held a fundraiser at Latitude 360 in and Jean DeFilippis Pittsburgh to help me with my hospital bills.” Leeper didn’t have health insurance when he was shot. “And so many people came to the hospital to visit. I was really impressed.”

Leeper said that the kindness continues today. Sometimes, strangers recognize him from a recent Allegheny Health Network commercial in which he was featured, and someone will pay for his lunch or speak a kind word. He tries to give back now because so many have helped him out. “When you have been through what I have, you realize what’s important. I don’t want to waste time fighting with people over something silly. I want to make their lives better.”

And he is especially grateful to be singing. Only a couple months after Leeper was shot, he decided to return to the stage, starting at Cavo in Pittsburgh. “I was mentally ready, but phys-

ically…I didn’t know. I had worked with a speech therapist for a while, but most of the therapy I did by myself, just by talking.

I never shut up!” He laughed. “My voice wasn’t back to the level it was before till the following summer, though.”

Being shot changed him on a deep level. “Before, I stood stiffly and focused on the technique that my voice teacher, Raymond Blackwell, taught me. But afterward, being so grateful for life made my singing more emotional. Now, my hands move freely, and I really feel what I’m singing. So many positive things came from this.”

One of those things was an opportunity to meet a band Leeper had listened to while he was recovering. When the Icelandic band Árstíðir came to Pittsburgh for the first time, he attended the show with some friends. To Leeper’s surprise, Árstíðir dedicated his favorite song to him during the show— his friends had contacted the band and told them his story.

Afterward, he was able to meet the band members and take pictures with them.

Leeper has also connected with others affected by shootings and has shared stories and support with them. He has also become more spiritual and has told his story at local churches to inspire others with his recovery. n

Photo: Stevie Muren

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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Steven and his daughter.

The Alexis Joy Foundation: Support for the Baby Blues

By Alice Beckett-Rumberger

A

s a healthcare professional, I know how important taking care of our physical and mental health needs is.

Sometimes it seems easier to take care of our physical health. If your wrist is sprained, you wear a splint for a few weeks and do some stretching and strengthening exercise, and the pain goes away. Mental health is harder to “see.” There is no swelling or bruising. It is a feeling inside. But self-care includes taking care of both mental and physical health, and our healthcare system struggles to take care of both. The good news is that people like Steven D’Achille want to change this script.

I was introduced to Steven while our kids were playing soccer.

Like all parents on the sidelines we cheer on our kids and make small talk. We are now good friends, and I am so grateful to share his story with the readers of Inspiring Lives!

Steven and his wife Alexis welcomed their beautiful daughter into the world in August of 2013. Shortly after her daughter’s birth, Alexis began to experience anxiety, and she and Steven sought help from the medical community. They were referred to many health care professionals and were told, “It is normal. You will be ok. Maybe you should see another doctor.” Steven wanted to take the advice of these physicians, but on October 10, 2013, Alexis took her own life. Through this very painful experience Steven decided that no woman or family should go through what his family was going through. He started The Alexis Joy Founda-

tion, a foundation with a mission to be a shining light for women and families suffering from and affected by perinatal mood and anxiety disorders spanning, but not limited to, infertility, postpartum depression, and infant and child loss.

When we spoke, I could see the passion he has for his foundation. Mental health does not discriminate. The statics are staggering. Only 15% of all women with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders receive professional help. One of the biggest barriers to help is finding where services are being offered and getting care as soon as possible. Steven built an incredible relationship with Allegheny Health Network to provide women with the care they need, regardless of ability to pay. His vision is to have this pilot program spread to all cities and available for all mothers and families.

I asked Steven what his take home message would be to our readers. The first thing he said is we need to trust our gut—if something does not seem right, it isn’t. Second, you need to fight and advocate for that one you love, and third, don’t be afraid to talk about the hard topics. His wish is that we lived in a judgement free zone and that support would be available for all.

This story really hit home with me as a mother of seven whose daughters are now having babies. Motherhood is a blessing, but it is also hard work. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact The Alexis Joy D’Achelle Foundation at alexisjoyfoundation.org. n

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N O Pittsbu R T rgh H

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Photo: John Chamberlin

HEALTH & WELLNESS

TOTAL SPORTS ENTERPRISES AND #TEAMJUJU TEAM UP FOR THE HOMELESS CHILDREN’S EDUCATION FUND

By Rachael Rennebeck

To his line mates, he is a 21-year-old playmaker, to his six

siblings he is silly brother JuJu, and on December 12 he will be known as JuJu Claus; the chicest gift giver in Pittsburgh.

JuJu Smith-Schuster grew up in a house full of sticky

fingers and mismatched socks, a house that welcomed the

holidays with open arms and prompted Schuster to spread his family’s love for the holidays.

David Alan and JuJu Smith-Schuster select the perfect style, fabric, and colors for the JuJu Claus custom-suit by David Alan Clothing.

Photo: John Chamberlin

That close-knit family upbringing and love for Christmas

inspired Schuster to create a magical moment for less-for-

tunate children at the Mall at Robinson (Robinson, Pa.). On

Tuesday, December 12, Schuster made his debut as JuJu Claus in a David Alan-designed suit to hand out gifts to children

who benefit from the Homeless Children’s Education Fund.

Then after the quaint get together, Schuster carried on as JuJu Claus for a donation-generating photo opportunity for the public.

The event began with the sale of #TeamJuJu laces, from

which all proceeds benefit the Homeless Children’s Education Fund, Schuster’s charity of choice. Total Sports Enterprises

sells the laces in-store at the Mall at Robinson and online at

tseshop.com, and to further support the cause, each purchaser

receives a ticket for a drawing to win a pair of authentic Adidas JuJu cleats in support of the cause. The proceeds for the JuJu

Claus photo opportunity on December 12 were also donated to the Homeless Children’s Education Fund.

Family and hope inspired JuJu Smith-Schuster, and that

hope kick-started a giving campaign that will help children thrive and survive in the black and gold city of champions.

Thanks to #TeamJuJu! n

David Alan of David Alan Clothing measures JuJu Smith-Schuster to create the ultimate custom suit.

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SPECIAL SECTION:

PHILANTHROPY IN THIS SECTION: A View From the Press Room: Michelle Obama, Carla Harris, Shonda Rhimes, and Dr. Brené Brown

Jess Branas........................................................ 74

Pucker Up for Change

Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................ 78

Empowering Women in Philanthropy Awards

Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................ 84

“No one need wait a single moment to improve the world.”

—Anne Frank

Michelle Obama and Shonda Rhimes Some of the 12,000 participants pose for a photo together during Pennsylvania Conference For Women 2017 at Pennsylvania Convention Center

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A VIEW FROM THE PRESS ROOM: Michelle Obama, Carla Harris, Shonda Rhimes, and Dr. BrenĂŠ Brown

BY JESS BRANAS | PHOTOS BY MARLA AUFMUTH/GETTY IMAGES

Lines around the block. Twelve thousand women (and men) anxiously waiting for the doors to open at the Philadelphia Convention Center. It was the day many of us had been waiting for: the 2017 Pennsylvania Conference for Women.

As I entered the press room, journalists from various media outlets were quietly setting up their phones, laptops, and tablets to spread the messages of empowerment, love, and inspiration that several amazing women were about to share.

Each one of these women brought with them a distinct characteristic as they took the stage, and as we were all waiting with anticipation for the main headliner, Former First Lady Michelle Obama, the sound of feverish typing began.

Here is your intimate view from the press room.

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76

Strong MICHELLE OBAMA

Powerful CARLA HARRIS

As Michelle Obama arrived on the stage to chat with Shonda Rhimes, everyone in the press room acted like the other crazed fans in the Convention Center. I have never witnessed such excitement in one place. Funny and real, Obama brought the message of strength.

Not only a successful attorney, Obama is known for her various initiatives to fight childhood obesity, support veterans, and inspire the next generation to seek higher education. Most importantly, she is a wife, mother, and at one time, the bread-winner of the family. “I wanted my girls to have the most normal life possible.”

While receiving many cheers, this incredible woman hit the nail on the head when asked whether she sees women being labeled as soon as they fail.

“Absolutely.” She continued to talk about the bar moving. “Once you hit it, it moves again, and we are seeing it right now quite frankly. It is amazing to watch. I want women to watch this. I want women to pay attention. This is what happens when we don’t stand up.”

Exuding confidence, the Former First Lady has no problem sharing her experiences and being the model of strength for women, young and old. She had the crowd feeling their own power as she gave the best statement of the conference, while also giving us our challenge.

“I’ve seen a lot of imposters at a lot of tables. And when you’re at the table and you realize ‘oh you are a fool and I’m worried about raising my hand?’ But shame on us if we sit by and let an imposter talk us down. You see wrong happening, and you sit by quietly because you’re afraid to fail? That’s what I want to challenge us as women to be…to speak up.”

From the moment Carla Harris took the stage, her smile and joy overtook the room. Her voice ringing loud and clear, Ms. Harris had quite a presence.

Every person could feel her sheer power as she delivered not a speech, but the advice she would give her twenty-five-year-old self.

“The first thing I want to tell you, Carla, is own your power. Never let anyone make you doubt that which is uniquely you.” Just with hearing this first piece of knowledge, I was in awe. Owning your power is certainly something that Carla Harris knows well. She lives that belief every minute.

Ms. Harris is a Wall Street powerhouse as a vice chairman at Morgan Stanley. This, however, is not the only hat she wears. Appointed to chair the National Women’s Business Council by President Obama, this woman has and continues to receive countless honors and awards, while also being the author of Strategy to Win and Expect to Win. Impressive as she is, Harris continued with ease.

Her list of advice left no stone unturned and covered every topic in a no-nonsense way that we can all follow. With these statements, she ended her interaction with us as I could feel the self-esteem of each individual grow and fill the room.

“Take risks.”

“Fear has no place in your success equation.”

“If you meet who you are interested in and they tell you that you are too much for them, they are right. Do not dim your light for someone else’s convenience.”

“Celebrate your victories often.”

“You don’t ask, you don’t get.”

INSPIRING LIVES

WINTER 2018

Fearless SHONDA RHIMES

Authentic DR. BRENÉ BROWN

Yes, we have all come to know the name Shonda Rhimes. This award-winning writer and producer shares her creative work with ABC Series such as Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder. From Golden Globes to GLAAD, The Producers Guild of America to the NAACP, Rhimes is a woman who exceeds expectation and continues to receive honors and awards in an industry that was male-dominated when she began.

Not only was Rhimes speaking to the attendees of the Conference, but she also had the honor of conducting the live interview with Former First Lady Michelle Obama in front of the crowd. Talk about an exhilarating yet—for many of us—a would-be nerve-wracking moment! Rhimes showed nothing but fearlessness.

Gracing the podium, Rhimes declared, “There’s a reason why I say I haven’t faced any obstacles, and it’s a real, true, honest reason. I have never NAMED anything an obstacle.”

Surprisingly, this introvert who formerly stated that she had a fear of public speaking named her fear “opportunity.” “How we name something dictates how we deal with it. We most often allow our fear to be in charge of what those names will be. We are afraid to call ourselves ‘brilliant’ because maybe someone will think we’re bragging. We’re scared to define ourselves as ‘beautiful’ because maybe someone will disagree and hurt our feelings,” and the list went on.

Closing her speech, Ms. Rhimes told us to “rename our fears, summon some courage, and stand up. Go out there, and name the world your own.”

As a research professor and scholar, Dr. Brown has created thought-provoking studies such as investigating courage, shame, and vulnerability. Intelligent, witty, and downright honest, Brown has given some of the most-viewed TED Talks to date.

What I found remarkable as the University of Houston professor was speaking was that she was as authentic as they come. As she recounted a story of public speaking engagements for which she was being requested, a smile grew on my face.

“I received a request from a church, but they said I couldn’t swear. Then I received a request from a company, but they said I couldn’t mention faith.

Sometimes I do both in the same sentence.” Brown certainly speaks the truth.

This is a woman who doesn’t compromise who she is and trusts her gut when it comes to making a decision.

She is the role model of authenticity and urges others to do so as she helps them to love themselves and evolve through her online platforms. This three-time New York Times best-selling author is the founder and CEO of COURAGEworks and Brave Leaders Inc. where she is using her findings to educate and empower individuals, families, and entrepreneurs.

Brown demonstrated the importance of knowing who you are and being yourself. Living your truth breeds happiness and success. She left us with sound advice.

“It’s ok to be vulnerable. It’s a part of you. Be courageous with living your life.”

With the wisdom of Ms. Harris, Ms. Rhimes, Dr. Brown, and Former First Lady Obama, we can continue to plant the seeds of excellence for the next generation of women. Having attended the Pennsylvania Conference for Women for several years, the message reigns true: Confidence, power, value, and worth is within each one of us. Tap into those characteristics, and there is no stopping you!

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PUCKER UP FOR CHANGE

By Dr. Shellie Hipsky • Photographs Courtesy of Real Beauty Real Women

Real Beauty Real Women (RBRW) and Socially Conscious Fashionistas (SCF) were created to bridge the gap between fashion-forward women who love the glamour and excitement of the entertainment and fashion worlds and those who want to become more socially active.

Their exciting and varied content promotes awareness of pressing social issues faced by millions of women, men, and children in this country, focusing on poverty, domestic violence, and sex trafficking.

RBRW’s mission is to help women and children break the cycle of violence, poverty, homelessness, and abuse.

RBRW and SCF provide and promote a variety of services and programs that are social and community-focused, including fashion shows, networking events, and humanitarian projects recognizing a network of professional and socially conscious women and men in business, entertainment, fashion, beauty, sports and politics, who support charitable causes.

By building self-esteem, self-discipline, and social skills, real women everywhere can make the most of themselves, no matter the obstacles! ​

#sociallyconsciousfashionista #puckerupforchange

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INSPIRING LIVES

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NEW YORK CITY

Sitting on floor, left to right: Taylor K. Shaw and Sydney Silver; On the couch, from left to right: Tia Hodge-Jones, (standing) Dee Marshall, Jessica Robinson, Anika Jackson, Jacquelyn Aluotto, Michele Thornton, J. Love Calderรณn, (standing) Allyson Spellman Becker, Dayanara Marte Standing in back, left to right: Kaila Mullady and Dorinda Walker

HOUSTON

On the floor, first row, from left to right: Connie Kwan-Wong and Jacquelyn Aluotto; On the floor, second row, from left to right: Anika Jackson, Latoya Smith, and Staci Henderson; Sitting, from left to right: Rania Mankarious, CleRenda McGrady, Joy Lacy, Pamela Andino, Tammara McDonald and Debbie Pakzaban; Standing, from left to right: Ebony L. Thomas, Carrie Brandsberg Dahl, Dr. Layla Asgari, Nancy Almodovar, Tracy Faulkner, Carla Bisong, Sippi Khurana, Nicole West, Sneha Merchant, Dana McWhorter, Alex Blair, Shawntell McWilliams, and Jalene Mack

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PUCKER UP FOR CHANGE

TV/Radio host/Best-selling author Jacqui Phillips, Jacquelyn Aluotto, and Editor-in-chief of Bella Magazine Courtenay Cooper Hall

Jacqui Phillips, Shark Group and Curvy stylist Sheri Collins, and Jacquelyn Aluotto

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PUCKER UP FOR CHANGE

Katherine McGibbon is an author, actor, poet, and playwright, as well as a sex trafficking survivor, who tells her story of survival and escape in her play. She is applying Blushing lip color.

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PUCKER UP FOR CHANGE

Pittsburgh

KELLY FROST: Multiple Sclerosis

BRIANNE BAYER MITCHELL: Children and Youth Services

The Real Beauty Real Women’s Pucker Up for Change campaign sought nominations from women across the country for representatives in 5 major cities. They received over 50,000 nominations!

Jacquelyn Aluotto, the founder of RBRW, and our editor-in-chief Dr. Shellie Hipsky encouraged the city of Pittsburgh to select their Socially Conscious Fashionistas for the national RBRW campaign as they were voting for the Empowering Women in Philanthropy, so the winners of the Empowering Women in Philanthropy Awards would also be the representatives for Pucker Up for Change.

These women are making change through multiple charities and are so beautiful inside and out. Visit RBRW. org to support the 501 (c)(3) public charity by purchasing the Pucker Up for Change lipsticks that are featured on fashionistas in this image. n

Photo: Mary Beth Kratsas

KRISTEN VAROLI: YWCA

ROBERTA ADAMSKI TUMULTY: Girl Scouts of America

VIVANA ALTIERI: Children with Rare Genetic Diseases

LYNN M. BANASZAK: The Caileigh Lynn McDowell Foundation

SINDEL TAYLOR: The American Heart Association

HEATHER HABURA: PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center

INSPIRING LIVES MAGAZINE’S

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY AWARDS

By Dr. Shellie Hipsky

Photography provided by the honorees

“Life’s persistent and most urgent question is ‘What are you doing for others?’”

—MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

WINNER

The women who were nominated for Inspiring Lives

Magazine’s Empowering Women in Philanthropy Awards

are on life missions to do for others and give back through non-profits. These exceptionally charitable women were chosen by their communities and nominated by their organizations and friends for their great works.

At our core, Inspiring Lives Magazine supports and in-

spires women to express themselves authentically through the work that they do while linking passion to purpose.

At the Allegheny Harvard Yale Princeton (HYP) Club

on Dec. 8th during the awards ceremony, we learned

about the non-profits and organizations that these incredible ladies have founded, are on boards of, or help to grow and help serve. Please look for the winner’s video inter-

views on our website www.InspiringLivesMagazine.com We are so proud to be affiliated with these remark-

able Empowering Women in Philanthropy winners. The

Global Sisterhood 501 (c)(3) donated funds to each of the charities that are near and dear to the awardee’s hearts in

SINDEL TAYLOR Sindel Taylor is Mrs. Allegheny County Pennsylvania America, as well as a model and an instructor at South Hills & North Hills Beauty Academy. She was last year’s Miss Fashion Week Pittsburgh and has modeled in Pittsburgh Fashion Week, Style Week, and the Global Sisterhood’s 2016 Global Gala fashion show, among other events.

She is a military spouse and mother of two. Her elementary school-age daughter Stasia is following in her mommy’s footsteps, holding the title of Little Miss PA. An advocate for heart health, Taylor speaks on behalf of the American Heart Association. The American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Founded in 1924, the organization funds innovative research, fights for stronger public health policies, and provides critical tools and information to save and improve lives.

Taylor also provides free haircuts through her work with many charities, including volunteering for the past 5 years with The Veterans Leadership Program at their Annual Event “Stand Down.” The program and event help provide vital services to eligible local veterans and their families to improve their life. n

American Heart Association: heart.org/HEARTORG/

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Veterans Leadership Program: vlpwpa.org

honor of the ladies and their dedication to the causes.

These five non-profits are Children and Youth Services,

The Caileigh Lynn McDowell Foundation, American

Heart Association, Girl Scouts of America, and PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center. We are honored to

stand by these philanthropists and support their commitment to positive change. n

WINNER

WINNER

LYNNE POPASH

BRIANNE MITCHELL

Lynne Popash is the director of the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s Women’s Leadership Council (WLC), leading programming for a passionate network of 2,000 members who are dedicated to helping our region’s most vulnerable citizens. The Pittsburgh WLC is the third largest in the country and raises over $9 million annually.

Popash has a special passion for United for Women, which supports women in short-term crisis. When a woman loses her job, her spouse, or other essential supports, she often needs additional support to help her overcome an immediate financial crisis and start on a path to regain financial stability. United for Women was launched by United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s Women’s Leadership Council in Allegheny County to help get women in these circumstances immediate, tangible support to avoid more serious crisis such as homelessness or long-term poverty. United For Women also engages volunteers to help women regain their jobs, enter the workforce, and stabilize their family situations. In 2016, United for Women helped over 2,200 women avoid financial crisis, find or improve employment and avoid homelessness.

Since 2001, WLC members have served as local philanthropists and volunteers. Whether you are at the start of your career, a seasoned professional, or someone who wants to make a difference, the Women’s Leadership Council is a great way to get involved in the community. Together, this group supports important work that helps thousands of people improve their lives and succeed. WLC members embrace the chance to connect, share, and empower.

Brianne Mitchell is the proud mom of Della (9) and Lila (6). She is the CFO of Mitchell Legal Services (MLS) and previously worked as a college professor. Mitchell works closely with her MLS clients, focusing on counseling services, rehabilitative placement, education, workforce reentry programs, and human services. Mitchell also serves on the Washington County Children and Youth Services Advisory Board. She is the Region 4 Director of the Pennsylvania State PTA and oversees Washington, Fayette, Greene, and Westmoreland counties. She is also a state PTA board member.

Mitchell and her daughters are the award-winning authors of the Della and Lila Book Series, which includes the children’s books Della and Lila Meet the Monongahela Mermaid and Della and Lila and the Treasure Adventure. Proceeds from the sale of each book go toward The River Fund, which was established by the Mitchell family to help children and families in southwestern Pennsylvania. Mitchell resides in Brownsville, Pa., with her husband, Mitch, and their daughters.

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Della and Lila Book Series: dellaandlila.com

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The River Fund: shop.dellaandlila.com/about

United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council: uwswpa.org/womens-leadership-council-wlc

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WINNER

WINNER

HEATHER HABURA

LYNN BANASZAK

When you’re browsing through TV channels, you most likely will see Heather Habura on a commercial, an infomercial, or a talk show. Habura is passionate about her work as a TV host and actress, but most importantly, she loves to help people— especially those who have goals and dreams in their heart. Her pride and joy is her studio right outside of Pittsburgh, Pa. She specializes in private training for modeling, dance, and pageant contestants. She also provides training in etiquette, self-esteem development, interviewing, and public speaking.

Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, Habura got her start competing in the Miss America Scholarship Program. She landed a modeling contract at age 21 and booked her first commercial that same year. From there, she’s gone on to be in hundreds of TV commercials, website commercials, talk shows, and infomercials, along with hosting red carpet events, emceeing corporate and special events, and more.

Habura is also a national spokesperson for anti-bullying and has started a kindness movement throughout our communities.

She works with PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, which actively leads social change so bullying is no longer considered acceptable. PACER provides innovative resources for students, parents, educators, and others, and recognizes bullying as a serious community issue that impacts education, physical and emotional health, and the safety and well-being of others.

Habura resides in Pittsburgh with her husband Christopher and three amazing children: Ellie, Elias, and Johnny.

Lynn Banaszak is the executive director of the Disruptive Health Technology Institute at Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, Pa.), volunteers on nearly 20 non-profit boards, and serves as a mentor to young women and girls. She raises funds for all the organizations that she serves, hosts events, creates appeals, recruits volunteers, and gives countless hours of her time. Banaszak speaks all over the country about compassionate healthcare, innovation, entrepreneurship, and kindness.

Banaszak created The Caileigh Lynn McDowell Foundation to honor the extraordinary life of her niece Caileigh Lynn McDowell. A passionate policy and political activist, feminist and equal rights proponent by age 8, Caileigh passed away tragically in April 2016 at the age of 17. The Foundation supports Caileigh’s passion to transform political, social, and economic systems and institutions to create a kinder, more equitable and just society for all, while also advocating about issues that specifically affect teenage girls. Since the spring of 2016, the foundation has given four scholarships honoring Woodland Hills High School seniors who exemplify the ability to find common ground with their classmates. These individuals must be inclusive, have a generous spirit and always choose to be kind, just like Caileigh. The foundation’s Kindness Movement launched with the distribution of kindness cards, which are used as leave behinds as a reminder of love, compassion, encouragement, or unity to change a situation for the better and leave someone with a smile. Over 10,000 cards have already been distributed across the United States.

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Heather Habura: heatherhabura.com PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center: pacer.org/bullying 86

INSPIRING LIVES

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The Caileigh Lynn McDowell Foundation: caileighsfightsong.com

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY AWARDS

HONORABLE MENTIONS

KRISTEN VAROLI, owner of Contempo Artistries Salon (contempoartistries.com), holds salon events to raises money for women’s and children’s non-profits. She is also involved in the Empowering You initiative to help coach and mentor young cosmetology professionals and salon owners and the YWCA (ywca.org), which has a mission to eliminate racism and empower women.

VIVIANA ALTIERI is the founder of Istituto Mondo Italiano (istitutomondoitaliano.org), an Italian cultural center devoted to the promotion of the Italian language and culture.

It also assists immigrants coming to Pittsburgh so they can find housing and jobs. She supports an Italian organization that helps children with rare genetic diseases, Malattie Genetiche Rare.

ASHLEY BOYNES-SHUCK is a journalist, author, advocate for autoimmune diseases like arthritis, and philanthropist who donates a portion of proceeds from her book Sick Idiot to 10 different health-related charities (abshuck.com). One charity she supports, The Autoimmune Registry (autoimmuneregistry.org) creates a hub for research, statistics, and patient data on all autoimmune illnesses.

MELISSA ERNST developed Veterans Place (veteransplace.org), a program to assist homeless veterans in the Pittsburgh area so they can find employment and housing. She also works with veterans nationwide who are transitioning from the military to civilian careers and is an Ambassador for Mission 22 that raises awareness for veteran suicide.

VICTORIA SNYDER sits on two boards for the YWCA, Greater Pittsburgh and helps raise funds through the YWCA’s Young Leaders Board.

She also sits on the board of directors of Cultivating Resilient Youth, where she volunteers time mentoring and engaging at-risk girls. Snyder also helps the homeless in the Pittsburgh area with Homeless Care Kits.

ROBERTA ADAMSKI TUMULTY is a co-owner of Laundry Ladies. Through her business, she enables parents, senior citizens, cancer survivors, and others who may have limited mobility or other issues that make it difficult to work outside the home to work and feel good about themselves. Adamski Tumulty is also an active supporter of the Girl Scouts of America.

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Saturday, March 24, 2018 DoubleTree by Hilton, CRANBERRY

COCKTAIL ATTIRE OR FORMAL

6 T O 11 P M

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

call 724.935.6100 or visit www.GlassSlipperBall.com

BEST OF

FE ATURING THE

THE C HEFS AND LIBATION PURVEYORS BEN EFI TTI N G: L OC A L A N D G L O B A L W O M E N ’ S IN IT IA T IV E S CEED • LI VI N G I N L IB E R T Y • T R E A SU R E HO U SE F A SHIO N S

Tickets $110 per person ($95 if purchased by February 23, 2018)

FASHION & BEAUTY IN THIS SECTION: New York Fashion Week

Jenn Lederer................................................................................ 91

DESIGNER PROFILE: Valeria Green

Valeria Green............................................................................. 94

Settlement Engine Fashion Week Downtown 2017

Dr. Shellie Hipsky....................................................................... 97

Winter 2018: Fashion Heats Up

Teri Lynn Woodruff.................................................................. 100

Just Jackie: Red Hot

Jackie Capatolla..................................................................... 103

“Playing dress-up begins at age five and never truly ends.”

—Kate Spade

PHOTO: Dennis Rodriguez | CLOTHES: Fashion Gallery NYFW Spring/Summer Collection 2018 | Prêt-à-Porter

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK

I

nspiring Lives Magazine asked our New York City Each designer’s collection that walked the runway inbased contributor, Jenn Lederer, to attend New terpreted how the everyday look could be worn as a York Fashion Week (NYFW) and scope out the statement piece, adding an element of confidence and allure to an otherwise common style. upcoming trends we can expect Sharp angles and over-sized sleeves to see in Spring/Summer 2018 fashthat drip down to the knee were popuion. From high-end to everyday looks lar themes being explored, along with to athleisure and everything in bebold colors, textures, and draping tween, NYFW delivered in a big way, fabrics that dance with the body as it as always! moves through space.

The energy of the room was electric Even though each designer had their as the models took each intentionown interpretation of this beautiful al step to the beat of the music that prêt-à-porter style, one trend is abunwas pulsing through the speakers. The dantly clear: 2018 is the time to step runway was lined with anyone who is out of your comfort zone and make anyone in the NYC fashion scene. Evbold choices! Whether it’s a blazeryone from students at the Fashion er with sharp angles, pants that have Institute of Technology (New York Jenn Lederer more movement than your summer City) to designers to buyers to Youmaxi dress, crop top turtle necks, or Tube personalities to journalists was in the audience, and they were all enthralled with each bright red thigh high boots, whatever you choose to put on, have fun, and go big! n piece of fashion that walked by.

The fashions featured here were from the Prêt-à-Porter runway show, a style that translates to ready-to-wear.

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PHOTO: Dennis Rodriguez | CLOTHES: Fashion Gallery NYFW Spring/Summer Collection 2018 | Prêt-à-Porter

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PHOTO: Dennis Rodriguez | CLOTHES: Fashion Gallery NYFW Spring/Summer Collection 2018 | Prêt-à-Porter

PHOTO: Dennis Rodriguez | CLOTHES: Fashion Gallery PHOTO: Dennis Rodriguez | CLOTHES: Fashion Gallery NYFW Spring/Summer Collection 2018 | Prêt-à-PorterMODEL: Cora T. RayNYFW Spring/Summer Collection 2018 | Prêt-à-Porter

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Christine Lamendola and Sage Sunner

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DESIGNER PROFILE

VALERIA GREEN European Designer of Leather and Fur Apparel

by Valeria Green • Photography by Mary Beth Kratsas

I

am a fashionista who is originally from Sofia, Bulgaria.

An alumni of the top institutions of Bulgaria, I hold undergrad and graduate degrees in both political science and international business, but my experiences in international relations and passion for fashion have led me to become the thriving “mompreneur” I am today. After spending time in the luxury and retail industry, I decided to start my own luxury clothing line, which focuses on helping women express themselves through lavish fur and leather couture apparel.

Outside of running my own clothing line, I enjoy taking frequent trips to my home turf in Europe and spending time with my two-year-old son Roman and my husband. Being a mompreneur is one of the best things I have ever achieved in my life. I had the pleasure of watching my father start and grow his own business from nothing. As I grew up, I would go to my father’s business meetings and travel on business trips with him from time-to-time. These experiences with my father played a critical role for developing the risk appetite and acumen to start my own business. I am not afraid to try and just dive into the adventure an opportunity presents.

Running your own business and having a baby are two very similar things. They both take great amounts of effort to create and to grow over time. Both things you have to be passionate about, nourish, and put love into the process.

Lani Dee and Zlatina Petrova

Just two years ago I used to work for a jewelry company, and I did trunk shows to show the product. I would have my 9-month-old son with me at some of the events. My best friend would come help me unload, and I let my baby sleep in the room while we were setting up. Being away from my family, I had no choice but to do things in my own way and not be afraid to try new things.

I am motivated to help women express their identity through apparel. I want to be able to help women feel this through my line of leather and fur apparel. We help women enjoy the comfort of our clothing while still expressing a chic and classy look at the same time.

Much of my inspiration comes from seeing different cultures, art, and of course fashion trends on my travels in Europe. I want to bring something different and special to the American market, but at the same time be able to adapt the trends around the American lifestyle.

My collection is available through trunk shows and private appointments, and now we are working on a new website. We want our customers to be able to shop our collection from the comfort of their home, while enjoying a lovely glass of well-deserved wine. n

VALERIA GREEN

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MODEL: Dr. Michele Langbein

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SETTLEMENT ENGINE FASHION WEEK DOWNTOWN 2017

by Dr. Shellie Hipsky | Photography by Mary Beth Kratsas In September of 2017, Settlement Engine Fashion Week Downtown built on the previous success, and with the support of the Pittsburgh Downtown Community Development Corporation (PDCDC) expanded to four days. The events included a launch party to connect industry influencers, a designer runway show, Design Fest (a pop-up market to offer see now/buy now opportunities), and an evening of trunk shows. The main event was the “The Runway” which was emceed by our very own editor-inchief Dr. Shellie Hipsky, and it featured 15 talented local designers right in the middle of Market Square.

Modeling Brian David Designs at the Settlement Engine Fashion Week Downtown are the stunning Divauna Taravella, Malori Bailes, and Joanna Wentling.

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WHITE ORCHID

by Cori Wamsley

“W

hen I bought The White Orchid 22 years ago,” Barbara Patterson said, “the heart and integrity of the store was passed on. I want to see that love for brides and their wedding parties continued with the next generation of ownership.”

Patterson helps women, their moms, and their bridal parties look beautiful on their special day. But what she does is more than just selling dresses.

Creating a caring experience for the bride takes both dedication and the ability to really listen to what a bride wants. Patterson and her wonderful staff take time with each bride when they arrive in the store to discover their personal style—and honestly consider their budget—to help them select a dress that will let them shine.

White Orchid offers dresses from four different lines, including two designer gown lines. They also feature a sale area with discontinued styles, so nearly any budget can be accommodated.

The store also carries mother’s and evening wear, bridesmaid dresses, and flower girl dresses and offers tuxedo rentals.

Patterson provides a stress-free environment where she or a staff member takes care of their needs. “So much shopping is done online now, but having that personal touch and being able to see and try on the dress can make all the difference.”

Patterson credits much of the shop’s success to her staff, contract seamstresses, and reliable vendors. It’s more than just picking a dress. “It’s important to trust a store that will maintain the quality from the time you order till the time you pick up your dress, pressed and ready to wear.” This dedication means that word-of-mouth has spread their reputation beyond the Pittsburgh area. Brides come from Ohio and West Virginia thanks to their good reviews.

Now ready to retire, Patterson is looking for a special person with a heart for these brides to continue helping them with their ideal wedding day. “I’m looking for someone who has the same heart for customers, integrity, the right energy, and maybe some fresh ideas. I want the next generation of White Orchid brides to get the same care they have received here for over two decades.” n The White Orchid 4907 Clairton Boulevard Pittsburgh, PA, 15236 412-885-4411 thewhiteorchid.com

WINTER 2018: FASHION HEATS UP Styled by Teri Lynn Woodruff, Creative Transformations • Photos by Ryan Smas, B Squared Photo This winter season is all about having fun showcasing your sense of style, so take full advantage of the multiple trends that are in the fashion spotlight. The mixing and matching of prints, textures, and color-blocked hues are a huge hit with many of the celebrity designers. As the temperature drops, snuggle up in cozy knits of all sorts, from oversized loose weaves with fringe to embellished cashmere blends. Vintage inspired faux fur is still prevalent and can be seen trimming jackets, sweaters, wraps and accessory items. Boots are holding on as staple footwear in every woman’s closet. This year the choices are endless…take your pick from classic tall riding boots, sexy thigh highs, block-heeled booties, brightly colored rain boots, soft & slouchy boots, or rich suede colors with embroidery to party looks of luxurious velvets with bling. Adorn yourself with fun ethnic and tribal inspired jewelry. To complete your look, try wearing extra-long drop earrings, chokers, statement cuff bracelets or classic pearls. Lastly, don’t forget to stock up on your favorite beauty products to help hydrate and protect your skin from the harsh cold air.

1. BARETRAPS

5. KATE SPADE

2. TALBOTS

6. ANNA & AVA

3. CLINIQUE

7. OMEGA

Oria Tall Boot in Black $100 (www.baretraps.com) Jeweled Pom Pom Hat $49.50, Matching Color Block Gloves $29.50 (www.talbots.com) Cream Shaper For Eyes in Egyptian $17.50 (www.clinique.com)

4. MINERAL FUSION

Sunstone 24 Hour Moisturizing Body Lotion $10 (www.mineralfusion.com)

1.

Cameron Street Jesen in Deep Plum $378 (www.katespade.com) Beaded Tassel Earrings $20.00 Gold and Crystal Drop Earrings $34.50 (www.dillards.com) Ladies Constellation in Steel with a Diamond MOP Dial $3,900 (www.omega.com)

8. Butter London Lippy

Liquid High Pigment Lipstick in La Moss $18 (www.butterlondon.com)

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PROFILE

BETH SHARI, HOLLYWOOD GLAM

D

esigner Beth Shari packs a powerful creative zing into everything she makes. She first became interested in designing costumes for theater during college.

“I love researching different periods of fashion,” Beth said. “History influences fashion, and fashion influences history. Once I began honing my craft, I found inspiration for my lingerie line and learned what people today yearn for in fashion. My mission is to create beautiful fashion for both ladies and gents who appreciate a finely crafted garment.”

The exquisite dress she designed for Inspiring Lives Magazine’s Turnings page exceeds that mission.

HOLLYWOODGLAM.COM 680 ANDERSEN DRIVE • FOSTER PLAZA TEN PITTSBURGH, PA 15220

Photo: Brian Hanna/Photos On Call

JUST JACKIE Red Hot

By Jackie Capatolla

G

irl you’ve totally got this!

Start every day keeping your heart soft. Is this something you wish you could do? We are so consumed with negative thoughts that sometimes it’s hard to see through the fog. Sometimes we close our hearts so we don’t get hurt or feel vulnerable.

What if we start every day with courage, passion, and strength? We can wear red to help us find that courage and passion. Would this change how we feel? I think it would change us for the better; it will help us with emotional stress and impact us tremendously. It will help us focus on taking action in our lives and motivate us to strive for success.

Maybe if we start the day with a soft heart, we can find ways to show how much we really care and love someone in our lives.

Maybe this will help us do what makes us happy. Just maybe we can find clarity in our workplace and our family and personal life.

Red—the sign of love, strength, and passion. Be powerful, and have that confidence within you. When in doubt, wear red.

Be comfortable in your own skin. Winter is a great time to wear your red and adjust your attitude; as the days get colder, hearts get warmer. It’s time for comfort food. It’s time to cozy up next to the fireplace with someone close to you. It’s time to gather thoughts and cherish memories. It’s time to soften our hearts.

My model is wearing red. She is passionate, she is dynamic, and she is a sign of love and strength. Will you be wearing red this winter?

GET THE LOOK Makeup: Attention grabbing red lip—making a statement and looking feminine. This red lip is smoothed over with a luxurious long-wearing lipstick in Poppy. First, line the lip for a full impact all day long. We used Pomegranate by Arbonne sold at Jacqueline’s. You should base your makeup on the color of your eyes and skin tone to compliment your look.

Glow On Bronzer—glowing cheeks and brow bone structure. Brush on evenly for a flawless look. Get glowing this winter.

Hairstyle: We are loving the cool relaxed feel of this floppy black felt and wool hat. Its carefree style leaves you feeling comfortable and stylish. We created a carefree hairstyle to sit

Credits: Model: Rena Boeset Photographer: Robert Tre Hester @hestertainment Fashion: Jackee Ging www.mystyletruck.com Hair and makeup: Jacqueline’s House of Beauty Salon and Spa—Jackie Capatolla www.jacquelinessalonandspa.com

directly under the hat and peek out for a little attention with effortless texture. We used texture paste to smooth back her side bang.

Fashion: This red and black Plume and Thread wrap has an urban chic feel. It can be worn as a dress alone or as an accent piece to enhance any style. Wear it over jeans or leggings. You can also put on a pair of sexy boots or make it more casual. It’s such a fun versatile wrap! Everyone should have one in their wardrobe.

As we take time this winter to clarify our minds and hearts, let’s be more compassionate; let’s be more understanding. Let’s be respectful of each other and let our hearts open up with love and emotional healing. Be that strength within you and love more.

Until next time, live your dreams! n

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TURNINGS

“IF WINTER COMES, CAN SPRING BE FAR BEHIND?” — PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY

DRESS: BETH SHARI | PHOTO: DENNIS RODRIGUEZ | HAIR: ALYSSA JACKSON MAKEUP: MARGIE KEGNEY | DIRECTION: DR. SHELLIE HIPSKY 104

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