CNY Woman July/Aug 2020 by Rochester Woman Online

SHE HUSTLES TALKS

WOMEN ENTREPRENEUHERS

Featuring:

- FASHION FORWARD IS BACK WITH MICHELLE DIBERNARDO! - UNSTOPPABLE WOMAN - PAM DENTON

- WOMEN WHO INSPIRE INCLUDING: BOXER JACQUELINE BOYLE, ACTRESS LANA ASANIN, MISS NY AMERICA EMILY MAHANA, AND ROSHEDA LAMPKIN

TheKATE Goal Getter. SCHNEIDER

PDO THREADS LIFT UP YOUR SPIRIT *INSTANT SKIN LIFTING *CELLULAR RENEWEL *IMPROVE SKIN TEXTURE, FINE LINES AND ELASTICITY *SKIN TIGHTENING

980 WESTFALL RD #110, I ROCHESTER, NEW YORK 14618 (585) 287-5299 I WWW.VITALIZEMEDICALCENTER.COM

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KATE SCHNEIDER : THE GOAL GETTER

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REGULARS

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE Lana Asini Jacqueline Boyle Emily Mahana

214

WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

LITTLE BLACK BUDDHA

222

MANIFESTING YOUR TRUE PURPOSE

102

ACCESS GLOBAL

226

PARTNERS IN A JOURNEY

110

UNSTOPPABLE WOMAN

232

TAMMY’S TIDBITS

118

LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Sole Mates

234

LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

132

FINANCIALLY SPEAKING

136

KARMA SPEAKS

140

VISIONARY MINDS

144

TRACY TALKS

152

PLATTER CHATTER

156

ANIMAL CARE SANCTUARY CORNER

WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR Nicole Heroux Williams

166

LIVING CONFIDENTLY

168

CHILDREN AWAITING PARENTS

176

HER EDGE

200

YOU MATTER

SPECIAL FEATURES 99

SHE HUSTLES TALKS SuperCORE Fit To Reign Sheridonna Designs Brackens Financial Rosheda Lampkin Recovrx Inner Light Teachings Love of Words

168

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

FASHION & BEAUTY 150

FASHION FORWARD

HEALTH & WELLNESS 150

ALL ACCESS

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“Little girls with dreams become women with vision.”

lease give a very warm CNY welcome to the latest woman to grace our cover of Central NY Woman Online magazine, a true “goal getter”, Mrs. New York America 2019 Kate Schneider. Read all about her incredible journey, her inspiring story and what it is like to be hand over the crown starting on page [12].

Plus, we have so many more stories of amazing women from all over the area includine professional boxers, actresses, authors and more. So many incredible journey’s to tell. We even have a very special ALL NEW section for “lady bosses” called She Hustles Talks where we feature over 10 women entrepreneurs talking about business, how they got started, how they are getting creative during this unprecedented time and more. Be sure not to miss them starting on page [99], with Central NY’s very own super woman, Dr Pam Denton on the cover. She has truly proved to be an “unstoppable woman”. We will have many changes coming over the next few months, that I am really excited about including new additions to the team, incredible cover women, the start of CNYW events and maybe a few other tricks up our sleeve. I hope you will all stay tuned, download each edition, and share with all your friends and family. I can’t wait for what is next. Together we are strong.

T T

ON OUR COVER

On the cover of our July/August Edition of Central NY Woman Online we have the beautiful 2019 Mrs. New York America queen and all-around inspiring woman, Kate Schneider. Photographed in studio by Laura Marino.

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Cheers,

Kelly Breuer

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PUBLISHER EDITOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

ADVERTISING SALES SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR WEB DESIGN & MANAGEMENT

Kelly Breuer Michelle DiBernardo Kelly Breuer Laura Marino Marisa Nicodemus Mangchin Par Jazmyn Bowens NSP Studios Solon Quinn

Sam Maloney

Kelly Breuer Tammy Reese Michelle Dibernardo Shanelle Benson Reid Vicki Brackens Corrin Stellakis Kierstyn Zaykoski Devon McLeod Kate Schneider Emily Mahana Dr. Pam Denton Alana Cahoon Tammy Vreeland Tracy Simone Kristin Bauer-Gross Sonia Conlin Angela McGhee Deanna Widmeyer Zanae Milton- Walker Shankevia Dean Sheridonna Wilson Angela Vahue Nicole Heroux Williams Mary Ellen Belding Bonnie Floyd

Ahlia Kitwana Beth Parry Tyra Pollard Rumella Cameron Kristin Bauer Gross Jamie kynn Garner Marisely Marte Susan DiProjetto Dr Yaslyn Vega

Kelly Breuer Toni Natalie Network Rochester

Rochester Woman ONLINE is the premier professional woman’s online publication in the greater Rochester area. Our feature articles address major topics that interest local women. Each issue includes articles on health, fashion, fitness, finance, dining, lifestyle and personal perspectives, as well as a spotlight on local area women. The electronic magazines are distributed freely through your favorite app store and will be in your inbox electronically by the first week of every month. The publication is available free of charge. Please feel free to contact publisher Kelly Breuer at 585.727.9120 or you can email us at networkrocqueen@gmail.com. Download our current media kit at www. rochesterwomanonline.com. The magazine is published 12 times a year by Rochester Woman ONLINE. Copyright © 2017 Rochester Woman ONLINE. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or republished without the consent of the publisher. Rochester Woman ONLINE is not responsible for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts, photos or artwork. All such submissions become the property of Rochester Woman ONLINE and will not be returned.

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YOU ARE ENOUGH. MRS. NEW YORK AMERICA BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS WOMAN I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO BY ROCHESTER ONLINE

KATE SCHNEIDER Kate Schneider is an enthusiastic Radiologic Technologist, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with an MBA, a passionate advocate for childhood health, and our Mrs. New York America! Kate’s radiology career brought her to the Capital District during the Su m m e r o f 2005, and she has proudly c a l l e d Ne w York her home ever since. That same year she met James, an orthopedic surgeon and lifelong resident of Upstate N e w Yo r k , who would later become her husband in October of 2009. They now live in the town of Rexford with their fur babies; two sweet little Yorkie’s named Martini and Maui. Some fun facts about Kate are that she played Division 1 ice hockey in college and was a trivia dancer on the 12

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Regis & Kelly show! Growing up, she was a Girl Scout from the age of five all the way to eighteen, when she proudly earned the highest honor, the gold award, before starting college in the Fall of 2000. In her rare spare

time, she loves listening to Hawaiian music, designing personalized gifts, trying new foods, relaxing by the lake with her dogs and husband, or thrill-seeking. Kate has been known

to enjoy bungee jumping, zip-lining, and night diving with 14 ft manta rays in the middle of the ocean. Kate has never been one to limit her ambitions or interests, and is affectionately known to her family & friends as the “goal getter.” No matter which career hat she’s wearing on a particular day, her primary focus is always to improve the lives of her patients & clients. Her lifelong passion for nutrition has been the fuel behind her platform of childhood wellness, firmly believing that building a foundation of healthy habits in children will lead to a brighter future. Kate was born and raised in a small town in the beautiful state of Vermont, where her parents always encouraged her to be physically active and to eat healthy. Since the age of three, she was an avid downhill skier, skater, and dancer. As a kid, never sitting still was the norm and to this day is still how she can be described.

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COVER STORY } } { {SHIFT+CONTROL “Kate has never been one to limit her ambitions or interests, and is affectionately known to her family & friends as the “goal getter.”

It wasn’t until she was an adult and on her own that she realized these healthy habits had a huge impact on her life. Kate has seen first hand how childhood habits stick with someone throughout their life, and you tend to either benefit from them or fight to change them. Her motivation is to make sure that as many children as possible can receive the benefits of being exposed to healthy habits from a young age, so that they have the best opportunity to build a brighter future!

Early last year, Kate found herself brainstorming how to have a greater impact and make a lasting impression on the youth in her area, and what could help her increase her opportunities to raise awareness of the importance of childhood health. The conclusion? Enter a pageant! Becoming a titleholder would be give her an incredible platform and be the perfect way to reach the maximum amount of people throughout the state. The Mrs. America organization is one of the most iconic pageant

systems for married women looking to lead change, and so that is where she set her sights. Kate entered the Mrs. New York America pageant, representing the Capital Region, and was beyond thrilled to have been crowned last March on her first attempt at the title. After the pageant, Kate hit the ground running, keeping the mentality that every minute of this once in a lifetime opportunity as Mrs. New York should be taken full advantage of! Throughout CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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“Most importantly, always believe in yourself, never give up, your potential is limitless, and anything is possible! ”

her yearlong reign, you can be sure to spot her at any and all events surrounding health, fitness, active lifestyles, and wellness for kids. She has loved being an active volunteer with numerous organizations such as No Kid Hungry, The Food Bank, Action for Healthy Kids, YMCA Healthy Kids Program, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and Best Buddies, to name a few. If she can make an impact on just one child at an event than she believes it has been a success. Both Kate & her husband also share a huge place in their hearts for animals, lending a helping hand and donating to local Humane Society’s and animal shelters as often as possible. Kate is also the proud founder and CEO of her own charity pet bed business, playfully named “Moose’s America”, as a tribute to her first fur baby, Moose. Profits from each pet bed sale are donated to animals in need all across America! Last August, Kate competed for the 18

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coveted title of Mrs. America on the iconic Westgate stage where Elvis himself performed in exciting Las Vegas! She proudly placed as a top 15 semifinalist and had the time of her life meeting like-minded women from all across the country! In the Fall, she set her sights on the top rated pageant for married women, Mrs. World.

Kate was thrilled to be awarded the title of Mrs. Ireland World, and was invited to compete for the prestigious title of Mrs. World along side over 50 other women from countries around the globe. With hard work and determination, Kate ultimately placed 1st runner up, and is energized now more than ever to continue her pursuit of becoming an International

titleholder. It is her ultimate dream to have the opportunity to take her platform worldwide, helping to make a positive impact on childhood health throughout countless countries! If she could offer one piece of advice to the next titleholder, it would be to take advantage of each and every moment with the crown because it flies by in a blink! In the words of one of Kate’s icons Coco Chanel, “a woman should be two things, who and what she wants.” Truer words have never been spoken and your impact will be directly proportional to the efforts you make, so don’t wait for opportunity to come find you, go after it! Most importantly, always believe in yourself, never give up, your potential is limitless, and anything is possible! Kate croned her successor on July 19th and handed over the reigns to the new Mrs. New York America 2020, Yasmeen Gumbs-Breakenridge.

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In the words of one of Kate’s icons Coco Chanel, “A woman should be two things, who and what she wants.”

PHOTO: @MARTA_SKOVRO

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JACQUELINE BOYLE BY MICHELE DIBERNARDO

Watch out for this powerful woman who is simply amazing. Powerful, inspirational, and strong to say the least. Jacqueline Boyle, is 37 years old and was born in Philadelphia, PA, but raised in Ocean View, NJ (just outside Ocean City). Now residing in Beacon, New York Jacqueline graduated from OCHS in 2001 and went on to college at West Virginia University where she graduated in 2005 with a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Sports Management with a double minor in business and communications.

gymnast as well during her career. After gymnastics she became a very competitive track athlete in High School, but was not passionate enough

Jacqueline is a part of Reality Star Boxing which Michelle DiBernardo is the Vice President of. Reality Star Boxing holds family fun entertainment by bringing celebrities and the red carpet with FUN! Currently, COVID-19 is putting a hold on boxing but she would love to be honored at the Boxing Hall of Fame in Upstate, NY.

Sports have always been her lifelong passion. Gymnastics, track, college rower, and then boxing.

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Then in 2012, while working at Chelsea Piers New York, she decided at the age of 29 to take on boxing, however not thinking she would actually compete. But, at the age of 31, Jacqueline had her first amateur fight and won and fell in love with the sport. In 2017 and 2018 Jacqueline became a 2 time Golden Glove Champion and then decided to make her professional debut in November of 2019.

Previously, she has worked for Chelsea Piers New York and Connecticut for a total of ten years before being offered a position at Orange County Sports Club as the Director of Gymnastics where Boyle is still employed.

Gymnastics was Jacquelineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite sport growing up. Starting at the age of two and then eventually forced to quit at age 16 due to a back injury. A very highly competitive gymnast, level 9 State Champion as a part of a team, level 8 & 9 Regional and National qualifier and Junior National elite

after her first year, but chose not to continue.

https://www.facebook.com/ JBabe0119 about it to continue in college so she decided to walk on to the crew team where Boyle earned a scholarship

https://www.instagram.com/jbabe0119/

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“Sports have always been her lifelong passion. Gymnastics, track, college rower, and then boxing. ”

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“But, at the age of 31, Jacqueline had her first amateur fight and won and fell in love with the sport.”

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LANA ASANIN BY MICHELE DIBERNARDO

Actress, TV host, model, and beauty queen, Lana Asanin, was born in Frankfurt, Germany, and is of Serbian descent. She started her career by winning Miss Montenegro and the Miss Frankfurt (Germany) pageant at the age of 17.

Lana was the cover girl on many world known publications such as FHM, MAXIM, Cosmopolitan, Avon, People magazine, 944 Magazine,

Despite her fast road to stardom, Lana continued to focus on academics where she majored in politics, history, and global trading in the fashion industry, with mastery in various languages. Her ability to speak German, Spanish, French, Serbian, and English along with her expertise in the fashion world, served her very well throughout her modeling career. After her studies, Lana t r a ve l e d e x t e n s i ve l y t h r o u g h o u t Eu r o p e including Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Hungary, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Italy, France, Spain, United Kingdom, and Asia stopping in Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

UNIQ Magazine, Women’s magazine, Belle Femme magazine, and Boracay Coffee Table book.

Being a dynamic model and an engaging host, Lana got her first big television break in the Philippines. She starred in many movies and TV shows in networks such as E! Entertainment, most of which were created especially for her. Some of the programs include— but are not limited to— Easy Dancing, Eat Bulaga (the longest-running and #1 Show in the Philippines), and several Comedy and TV Series. Lana has also appeared in numerous international and national commercials for brands such as Nescafe, LG Electronics, Shell, Laura Geller Cosmetics, Sunkist Soda, and CocaCola. After spending almost five years in the Philippines, she continued her acting, hosting, and modeling career in America. In Los Angeles, she hosted TV programs such as “Helping America,” “PenPal Me,” “Bellantino,” “ Ho l l y s c o o p,” a n d “Aztepaca”. Some of her film and tv credits are Entourage, The Mentalist, Deal or no Deal, Corporate Profile, Notes from the Underbelly, Curb your Enthusiasm, Jersey Mafia Chronicles, and The Streetz.

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“Most importantly, always believe in yourself, never give up, your potential is limitless, and anything is possible! ”

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LANA HASANIN

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{ WOMEN { SHIFT+CONTROL WHO INSPIRE } } “Actress, TV host, model, and beauty queen, Lana Asanin, was born in Frankfurt, Germany, and is of Serbian descent.”

Lana Asanin made a move to New York City, where she modeled for Ann Taylor, Michael Kors, Karl Lagerfeld, Stuart Weitzman, Carmen Marc Valvo, Steve Madden, Sam Edelman, Esprit, XOXO, Kensie, JC Penney and Fergie. Lana also starred in the critically acclaimed movie, “NYC Rooftop Story,” which won many awards and nominations including, Indie Fest Film Festival, Madrid International Film Festival, International Film Festival of New York City, Buffalo

International Film Festival, and New Filmmaker NYC Film Festival. Despite her busy schedule, Lana Asanin always makes time for charity work, which she has a great passion for. She is actively involved in several foundations such as TVASF (The Veteran Anti Suicide Foundation), DSW (Soles4Soul), and the TESLA Science Foundation. Lana Asanin is proud to be TESLA WOMAN OF THE YEAR, for her contributions to the Tesla Science Foundation.

For the latest info about Lana Asanin: www.imdb.me/LanaAsanin www.facebook.com/GreenEyedAssassin www.instagram.com/Lana_Asanin www.youtube.com/LanaAsanin

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{ WOMEN WHO INSPIRE } “Despite her busy schedule, Lana Asanin always makes time for charity work, which she has a great passion for.”

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LANA HASANIN

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MISS NEW YORK AMERICA EMILY MAHANA, MISS NY FOR AMERICA 2019 Emily has lived in Central New York her whole life. A resident of Clay, Emily graduated from CiceroNorth Syracuse High School in 2014. Following high school graduation, she attended Syracuse University. There, she majored in Civil Engineering, and graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2018 with her Bachelor’s Degree. She now works in Liverpool for Barton & Loguidice in the transportation practice area as a bridge engineer. Emily is fairly new to the pageant scene, only starting to compete in pageants during her senior year of college. In January 2018, she competed in her first pageant, a local pageant in the Miss America Organization. By the end of the pageant, much to her surprise, she was crowned Miss Upstate New York 2018. That summer she went on to compete for the title of Miss New York America. In January 2019, Emily passed the crown on to the next titleholder and 36

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believed her time in pageants was over. Just a few weeks later, she received a call from Diane Hardgrove, the Miss New York for America and Mrs. America director. She had explained there was a brand new pageant for unattached women – meaning anyone who was single, divorced, separated, or widowed and Emily’s had been recommended to her to compete for

the first ever title of Miss New York for America. She immediately jumped on the opportunity, realizing that it was now or never. Just two months later, after preparing mentally and physically, Emily was crowned Miss New York for America 2019. Over her year of service, Emily has promoted her platform: Empowering

Women in STEM, which encourages girls and young women to take an active interest in STEM activities. Being one of the only women in her degree program at Syracuse University, and now as the only woman in her department at work, it has become Emily’s passion to introduce STEM ideas to children so that maybe someday, they won’t be the only women in their STEM related c a r e e r. S h e has taken this platform state wide, traveling to schools, libraries, after school programs, and museums to interact with children of all ages. She feels so lucky that her “year” as Miss New York has been expanded to almost a year a n d a h a l f. Most pageant titleholders only get one year, so to have those extra months means that Emily can make even more of an impact. Ever since being crowned, she has stayed busy, working full time as an engineer while traveling to promote her platform and Miss New York for America organization.

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“She feels so lucky that her “year” as Miss New York has been expanded to almost a year and a half. Most pageant titleholders only get one year, so to have those extra months means that Emily can make even more of an impact.”

With only a few weeks left until she crowns her successor, she is starting to look forward to life after the crown. With this newfound time on her hands, Emily says the opportunities are endless. Since graduating from Syracuse University with her Bachelor’s degree, she has always been interested in going back to school for a Master’s degree in engineering or management 40

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or business which could come to fruition. Mostly though, she’s looking forward to spending more time with friends and family, and being able to travel with the purposes of relaxation instead of work. She is genuinely looking forward to what door opens next for her once the door closes on her time as Miss New York for America.

You can follow along on the last few weeks of Emily’s reign on Facebook at “Emily Mahana – Miss New York for America” or on Instagram at “@ missnyforamerica.”

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YOU ARE ENOUGH. BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

The most life changing choice I have ever made is to believe that I am enough. Throughout my life, I’ve gravitated toward people who evoke a strong sense of confidence; people who pushed boundaries and stood out from a crowd, had an identifying trait, or won superlatives in high school because they were the best at who they were. Those people intrigued me. I could effortlessly identify them. The appearance of mental grit, passion, tenacity and strong character traits attracted me – friends, boyfriends, colleagues, teammates. I always felt that if I surrounded myself with these people, I would thrive. They were the coolest, the prettiest, the smartest, the most athletic, the wittiest… if I was with them, I’d too, be the most [fill in the blank] . I lived in Tokyo, Japan through some impressionable middle school years. (Side Note: This is where my fascination with food truly blossomed and is a foundational building block of my family’s company, Simply Crepes). My father’s corporate career had temporarily relocated our family. I recall late nights spent after school at the age of 12, working diligently on algebraic math problems to try to keep up with a couple of the girls in the advanced math class (this was cool). I never felt smart, but 42

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I could hang with the cool girls. There are countless memories like this in my life. Countless. I promise they do not all look so cute. In acting in this manner, I may have managed to appear a certain way to others. Sometimes smart, sometimes athletic, sometimes popular. However, my own mental state never matched

up. All I believed was that I was never good enough. I could just fake it well enough to play nice with the best. I had an affinity to be perfect at something, but I could never achieve the goal. My flaws were glaringly obvious to my own self and negative thoughts festered inside, doing exactly the opposite of my original intent. I believed I could align myself with the best to become the best, but instead, I would consistently fall short and felt subpar by comparison. I’ve since

come to understand this negative selfperspective as emotional immaturity. A SHIFT IN OUTLOOK I don’t for a second, believe I’m alone in this struggle. “7 out of 10 girls believe they are not good enough or do not measure up in some sort of way…” (Dove Self-Esteem Fund, 2008). Many of these girls grow to be women struggling with this same sense of insecurity, scrutinizing and comparing ourselves to other women, moms, boss women, friends, super models, athletes. Social media makes it even easier for us to go down a rabbit hole of viewing other people’s lives as perfectly showcased on Instagram or Facebook. “#Goals” we like to call them. Am I right? I’ve come to learn that this behavior is self-deprecating (shocking… right?). Throughout the last ten years of my life, I have made a conscious effort to STOP such negative thinking toward myself. Gosh, so many good things come from hard break ups! I quite literally woke up one morning with an epiphany that I would no longer accept the negative self-talk. I had spent the last 25 years of my life learning and collecting character traits from some of

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{ SHIFT+CONTROL } { WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR } “Thank you, Nike, I’ve taken “Just Do It” to heart. I began to seek out =opportunities to build myself up from a personal and professional standpoint.”

the most successful people in my world. It was time to appreciate and showcase my own identity and start to believe in my own self. She just seemed a bit buried. It was time to dig her out. So, I did just that. Here’s how:

After graduating from Fisher, I decided to branch out and build something of my own. In 2006, I moved myself to NYC on a whim without a job and accepted a position in fixed income

Create a Book of Awesome. I wrote down my proudest moments. I started with the earliest years and worked my way to today. We’re going way back to my earliest memory of the coolest thing I ever did. In 4th grade, I initiated the foundation of a peer mentor group at my elementary school, the first anti-bullying group of the school’s history. Do something impactful. Check. I attended a few colleges. My husband thinks this is amusing. No, I did not get kicked out of school. I just had a change of heart a couple times. My parents founded our family business in 2003 and I wanted to be a part of it – cue Simply Crepes. Despite attending three schools and switching majors three times, I graduated within 4 years from St. John Fisher College with a B.S. in Business Administration while serving tables at Simply Crepes. Graduate on time, with a 4-year degree and some money. Check. 44

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trading at Bear Stearns Investment Bank within a week. Through the financial crisis buyout, I was absorbed into and

shortly thereafter promoted at JP Morgan Chase in cash management sales for multinational large corporates. Land a badass sales job. Check. Life happens. We make choices based on our heart many a time… that’s what happened here. So, I moved home and integrated myself back into my family’s growing business with the knowledge learned from my time in New York. Going back to Simply Crepes came with a lot of mixed emotions. I wanted to ensure my position would be working WITH my parents, not FOR them. Make life altering choice and dive in. Check. I dove into the elements I felt most comfortable with. Sales and culinary development. While these two things are drastically different, they were two areas I felt I could add value. We had three restaurants at the time: Simply Crepes Pittsford, NY, Canandaigua, NY & Raleigh, NC. I managed the day-to-day operations in Canandaigua while building a successful sales program for the front of house teams on a corporate level, that could be managed and measured. I reworked and consolidated the menu so all recipes could be made from scratch and replicated in each house. Contribute foundationally impactful upgrades to the family business. Check.

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“Through every single effort / achievement I questioned my abilities and my worth. Countless times I’d catch myself wondering, “why me?” or “can I do this?”. Countless times I went through this selftalk battle, literally saying to myself over and over, “yes, you can” and “yes, you are enough”.”

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{ WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR } { SHIFT+CONTROL } “There is this very common saying, I’m sure you’ve heard: “life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.”

I reflected on each year of my life, jotting down my proudest moments. This became my own personal Book of Awesome. I continue writing in this journal. It’s a living document. Sometimes I add merely one small act of kindness or something I’ve learned, like how to change an electrical outlet or how to paint a room. Sometimes it’s bigger than that, like conquering a fear or receiving an award. It helps to remind myself that I am enough. START DOING Once I had a good start on my book of awesome, which focused on my

PAST achievements, I had built enough confidence in myself to tackle some healthy choices for my FUTURE. Forget creating goals for the moment... just start doing. Thank you, Nike, I’ve taken “Just Do It” to heart. I began to seek out =opportunities to build myself up from a personal and professional standpoint. At this point, everyone who works at Simply Crepes understands we carry high quality, local-where-possible-everything, FLX wines and coffee since the inception of the business in 2003. We know that we sweeten our sauces and dressings

with a touch of 100% pure maple syrup – not refined sugar. We know 80% of our menu is available gluten/ dairy free, we offer a vegan crepe, we push the envelope on everything “crepe” like adding a ridiculously good burger topped with crepe-battered onion strings. We know our freshly homespun craft recipes and brunch cocktails are killer (full bar coming soon). We know the relaxed, yet country-chic vibe of the space is beyond welcoming. We know we are doing so much cool, so much “current”. The problem: No one else knows about this. CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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{ SHIFT+CONTROL } { WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR } “ I dove into the elements I felt most comfortable with. Sales and culinary development. While these two things are drastically different, they were two areas I felt I could add value. ”

Now that I was fully integrated back into the family business, I began to seek opportunities to grow myself while showcasing The Simply Crepes Brand within the community. The strategy is akin to a HIIT workout: “short” bursts of energy utilizing multiple muscle groups to get the biggest bang for your buck. - I completed a course through The Entrepreneur Network of Rochester to learn how to become a better business owner and how to network. - I joined the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Tour de Cure initiative as an executive committee leader and corporate sponsor, tripling the number of $1,000+ fundraisers over the last several years. I was the 2019 Event Chair which raised over $1.3M for the cause, making us the #1 Tour in the nation 3 years in a row, and currently sit on the board. - I joined the planning committee for the Golisano Children’s Hospital Gala as a member and corporate sponsor. - I was featured in Sarah Knight’s blog Roc Girl Gang, for being a secondgeneration boss woman, refreshing my parents’ 15-year-old business (at the time) enough to maintain the integrity of the business while keeping current with the rapidly evolving food scene of

the world today. - I received a Young Athena Award nomination for efforts building leaders at Simply Crepes, advocacy for Rochester area restaurant support for FLX wineries and philanthropic efforts for the ADA. Through every single effort / achievement above, I questioned my abilities and my worth. Countless times I’d catch myself wondering, “why me?” or “can I do

this?”. Countless times I went through this self-talk battle, literally saying to myself over and over, “yes, you can” and “yes, you are enough”. STRENGTHEN THE MIND & BODY I generally make sure to carve time out of my days to do something for just me. I started with simple things like getting my nails done and finishing a week of meal prep. I made new friends at the gym and implemented 5am work outs

to start my days strong (we’re working on this always). I learned to run longer than 5 minutes at a time. I completed a Spartan Race and 7.5 more (another story). All in effort to train my mental grit and tenacity. Complete a Spartan Beast and you’ll be acutely aware of what I’m referring to here. In doing these healthy, mentally gritty things, I met my husband. Cue my instinct of aligning myself with mentally gritty people. Joel is pretty gritty. There’s a lot of positive self-talk in our home: “Williams are winners.” Set Goals. I know I said forget goals earlier, but that was just to get myself moving. Now that I was moving in the right direction, it was important to set goals to structure some routine for real productivity. Without goals, you begin to feel like the wheels are spinning but you’re going nowhere. For me, big goals are daunting. I don’t focus on them. That’s just me. I identify the big goal in the broadest aspect and then I set a small goal to get me one single step toward achieving the big one. Just one. Achieve it. Take a moment to relish and reflect on it. Applaud yourself. Then make a new one and so on until you’ve reached your end game. CREATE ROUTINE I work from home. It’s virtually impossible CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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{ WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR } { SHIFT+CONTROL } “ Life happens. We make choices based on our heart many a time… that’s what happened here.”

for me to be productive without a routine. After having a baby last year, it’s become even harder. I love my tiny human, but mom-life/work-at homelife without a routine is a fail… and sometimes is a fail regardless, but I’ve gotten comfortable with this concept (another topic). While stuck to a chair nursing, during my son’s first year of life, I read a book called Atomic Habits but James Clear. It breaks down exactly how to build good habits and break bad ones. I also use a goal planner & routine tracker app called Fabulous. It’s helped me set routine to my days. The first goal is to create a habit of drinking a glass of water in the morning. It is that simplified. There are a whole bunch of theories on how to do this, regularly. Learn this habit, then move on to the next. Master the methods and you can apply it to most things in life. Get Up. Seize the day. Getting up early is hard for me. I have a 16-month old son, so sleeping past 7:30am is unheard of in this house and many days it’s Jayden/Mommy time until naptime. If I don’t get up before him, I struggle to find semblance of the day – I can, but it’s much harder. So, what does a night owl do in this dilemma? Go the F*** to Sleep. It’s a book by Adam Mansbach. Read it to yourself. If this is something you struggle with, here’s your Pro Tip: Go to bed. When you lay down, consciously decide that however many hours you’re going to sleep is enough to function properly. I literally talk to myself before I go to bed. I’ve done this for the last 12 or so months since having a child. “Nicole, you’re going to bed at 10pm. If you wake up at 5am, you’ll have had 7 hours of sleep. That

is enough sleep for an adult human. You should have no problem waking up at 5am.” When your alarm goes off, get up. You don’t have to go on a 5-mile run, you can merely grab a cup of coffee and sit on your couch with a candle lit and have some moments of peace to yourself. Journal, plan meals for the week, write your things to-do list or a fun plan for the day for you and your family, sift through emails, organize your desktop, set yourself up for success, etc. It’s empowering. Be fearless. Identify something you are fearful of, then conquer the fear. For years of my life, I ran from fear. In 11th grade, I skipped an entire week of advanced English, so I didn’t have to give a speech. This resulted in a week of detention and a Fail for the end of year project. My pretty A turned immediately to a D, which at the time, I happily accepted in place of standing alone, speaking for 25 minutes in front of my classmates. There is this very common saying, I’m sure you’ve heard: “life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.” This, I have learned to take to heart. It drives me. Whenever I get a knee-jerk instinct that feels something like “Nope. Not for me.” I take a minute to ask myself why. Is this response out of fear? If so, you bet I’m going to just say “yes”, then face the internal struggle to build enough strength to conquer the fear as I go. In 2018, I spoke to a room of over 600 corporate sponsors and participants at the ADA’s Tour de Cure kick off. Take that, 11th grade self! I find the more fears I conquer, the more confident I become and the easier it is to stand up to new challenges. I feel stronger, I feel taller. I feel that I’m enough.

Most recently, Simply Crepes LLC signed with a renowned hospitality group to embark on our long-anticipated growth initiative. We will pilot the concept in Webster, NY late 2020. In doing so, our Simply Crepes executive team chose to reconfigure my title to Director of Marketing, as we recognized a dire need to refresh the 17-year-old Simply Crepes brand. From an all-around marketing perspective, the foundational core “sizzle factors”, I like to call them, were just not being communicated properly to the public. The idea of shifting to a more creative, marketing-driven role frightened me. I immediately panicked. I am not creative (cue Natalie Sinisgalli’s article from RWO June 2020). I cannot do this. I am not formally trained on anything marketing related. However, everyone else was convinced I was the woman for the job. I have held a strong grip on our brand through the years, with many elements of the company filtering through my lens to ensure all facets of the business reflected our mission and held brand integrity. In trusting my team and recognizing that fear was the only thing holding me back, I started on a creative journey. I identified and aligned myself with smart, creative people. Here, the goal was to broaden my professional creative skillset and build a network of talented industry leaders to learn from. This concept is no different than choices I made early in life. The difference is the emotional maturity and sense of self-worth that I have developed over the last several years. I can sit in a room of leaders and not feel small but feel like a leader CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

{ SHIFT+CONTROL } { WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR } “I don’t for a second, believe I’m alone in this struggle. “7 out of 10 girls believe they are not good enough or do not measure up in some sort of way…”

amongst my peers. Over the last several months, I’ve managed to create & execute a new branding campaign with the assistance of some extraordinary professionals. I have built a framework for the new Simply Crepes “voice”, crushed the game in reconfiguring our social media accounts and just recently launched a new website that screams “current”. I love it. Check it out. I hope you love it too! If you have ever felt that you are not enough, at least know you are not alone. My hope in candidly sharing my struggle and success with this destructive mindset is that it inspires more women to share openly and to give and receive help from each other. Women are extraordinarily powerful creatures. You can become your own badass boss. Have grace with yourself. You are beautiful. You are enough. Nicole Heroux Williams, Co-Owner and Director of Marketing Simply Crepes Restaurants Simply Crepes Website: simplycrepes.com Instagram: @simplycrepes, @simplycrepes. pittsford, @simplycrepes.canandaigua Simply Crepes Webster: Coming Soon, late 2020 54

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*BONUS CONTENT* Tips to abolish nerves and turn that negative energy into a strong mental game, stat! Hello, girlfriend! About to speak in front of a crowd or walk into an interview for your dream job? Is the familiar feeling of anxiety fluttering in your stomach and every ounce of your being screaming “run”? This feeling of fear and self-doubt

Have 20 minutes for the bike? Great. The idea is to get all of that lingering negative energy out. - Dress in something you feel confident in, appropriate for your event. My friend, Alex Toussaint at Peloton says “Feel good. Look Good. Do Better.” Truth. -Smile at yourself in the mirror. Someone told me this at one point. I’ve used it ever since. Even if you are bawling your eyes out, just DO IT. Instant mood booster. - Breathe deeply. Let it in, let it out. My dad says, “Breathe through your toes”. Take all that anxious energy or self-doubt and shoot it out your toes with a huge exhale. No one is looking at the nervous energy at your feet, they’re looking at your confident smile.

is pretty normal, so while I’ve gotten quite good at suppressing these feelings, they still appear often in the form of a deep twinge in my stomach right before an important moment. Here’s a quick list of things you can do to help regain that inner lioness in a pinch: - Exercise in the AM of your event. I learned this from my husband. It’s the ultimate trick. Try some intense cardio.

- Stand tall. - Look yourself in the mirror one more time, give a radiant smile and say some positive statements out loud to yourself. “I am interesting.” “People DO want to hear what I have to say.” “I run a successful multiunit business.” “I am creative and have great ideas.” “I can do this.” “I am enough.” Go. You got this, girl! You are enough.

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“Many of these girls grow to be women struggling with this same sense of insecurity, scrutinizing and comparing ourselves to other women, moms, boss women, friends, super models, athletes. Social media makes it even easier for us to go down a rabbit hole of viewing other people’s lives as perfectly showcased on Instagram or Facebook. “#Goals” we like to call them. Am I right?”

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THE INSPIRATION BY DR. PAM DENTON

The Inspiration to Take Action in a Positive Direction (Even When You Feel Like Stopping) I have an amazing career where I get to chat with people from the heart and soul of change and inspiration and they ask me for guidance and insight. The only way I can deliver my guidance with confidence is that I have lived exactly what you are seeking. I have had to face challenges. Huge challenges and believe that our nervous system is wired to source power and can help you achieve unstoppable success. You just have to tune in and turn up your POWER. What I like to call superpower. I meet amazing women who are opening up, cracking open and widening horizons of opportunity! Women are learning to break down the walls of resistance and use inner strength and positivity as a guide. We are learning to trust in the positive because it brings us hope, wealth and love. So how do you get there? The answers are inside of you, they are not outside of you and you have access to answers 24/7. You could sit down right now and take a deep breath and access your amazing STAR power to change your life merely by activating

your inner strength and nervous system power. Here’s the thing…You want change, you are asking for it…but your nervous system is on hold or too stressed to pay attention. Your being is NOT on receive mode so you have no idea what to do and you stay stuck. Even when someone tells you what to do you are deathly afraid and want to do the right thing. (This is female programming to

I want your positive self talk and inner coach to “speak” to you directly so change can happen immediately. Then and only then will you hit the fast forward button on life change. This inner knowing and manifestation power is what so many people pursue, without ever learning how to allow it to move them forward in life. The key to success is action. Ta k e a c t i o n through fear. Take action through doubt. Take action even when you feel like you can take action. The way to build inner strength is to take action even when you feel you CAN NOT.

stay small and stuck. Do the right thing to get ahead.) I am here to tell you there is NO right thing and this mindset to do the “right thing” blocks progress! There is an inner voice and knowing, YOUR THING, your groove, your innate intelligence and a higher self part of you that wants to come out and play, you just have to trust it. So tuning in to your real and authentic self is key. I am talking about the part of you that speaks directly to the part of us that’s creative and motivated.

Stop denying yourself access to the wealth you deserve and learn to take fearless action, even if you screw up. Get back up in the face of adversity. Your body will love you. Your life will love you. And you will get results. I get it. Back when I was deep in depression, feeling stuck and wanting change, I would sit in my room at night, I would yell out for help but it seemed like there was no answer. I would search books for answers. I learned over 20 years this did not help at all and I needed to quiet down and listen to the answers inside of me. I needed to truly trust my CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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ability to lead and it was through trust that I built inner strength. I trusted that by taking productive action and disciplining myself to show up against the voices that tried to stop me, I would grow stronger. Long story short, there is another way 64

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to learn to move through sabotage and stuck and reach the changes you desire. You can learn to play big and be real by tuning into your inner coach, the positive voice. And you can learn to coach yourself to take action. Dr. Pam Denton, Fitness Leader, Motivational Speaker and Founder of

SuperCORE Fitness guides women to be unstoppable and face the fear of stepping out into the unknown to be unstoppable. www.supercorefit.com

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WHISTLE BLOWERS BY MARY ELLEN BELDING & PAM MARCOTTE I PHOTOS BY SAM MALONEY

Tenacity is described as a quality of being very determined and persistent, a common trait in many women. Pam Marcotte and Mary Ellen Belding found these traits were essential throughout their areers and the day they became the Truth Tellers when everything was at stake. And it was everything. Pam Marcotte and I surprisingly had never met although both our careers directed us to a nontraditional role for women. Pam working in Commercial Design as a Licensed Architect managing a Municipal Department for the City of Rochester and I was a Safety & Risk Manager for Favored Commercial Government Contractor. Both Pam & I strived for excellence in our careers. We achieved Management Positions gaining respect and positive reputations in a traditionally male dominated field. Over time we found that that we had much more in common than our careers. As many women do, we juggled or roles as Working Women, Wives, Mothers of Teenage children, Sisters, Daughters and friends. Pam & I both had the core belief that if we worked hard, performed with quality & integrity, complied with the standards and regulations of our professions, that our internal drive would continue to support being the best that we could be. As a salaried Manager with a twenty-six year impeccable tenure as the Managing Architect, I was the overseer on a Project that I would later discover, would change every direction of the life andcareer I had 66

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created. The vast responsibilities included managing all Capital Improvement Projects on City of Rochester owned buildings. For me to work thousands of extra hours beyond a standard 40 hour work week, while routinely taking work home was never questioned until April 4th, 2014. As I later discovered, that was the beginning of the plot. The order was given to eliminate me because I had gotten in the way of a Favored Contractor who apparently held unimaginable power. To justify destroying my career there needed to be Sham Charges

brought against me. I worked 90 minutes from home on one occasion and subsequently was brought up on a Civil Service Section 75 Disciplinary Charge which ultimately without precedent, removed me from the Managing Architect position, while reducing my income 30k annually. I was evicted from my office and relocated to a workspace in a Intern’s cubicle. The obvious humiliation was no less degrading than the elimination of my responsibilities. Unprecedent punishment for an alleged offense that should not have applied to my status as an Exempt Civil Servant. This demotion far exceeded the allegations

but fell right in line with the Playbook of Whistleblower Retaliation. Eight years later after working with a team of Doctors attempting to fit the broken pieces back into place, I was now the architect rebuilding my life. As a reward for my success as a Safety, Compliance and Construction Manager I was offered what was described as an opportunity of a lifetime to change my financial future forever. It wasn’t the promise of monetary gains, it was the next step in the challenging career that I loved. After reaching the Glass Ceiling in Construction Management I was encouraged to start what I believed to be a Legitimate Wo m a n O w n e d Construction Company. To be mentored by a successful businessman, having the support of my co-workers and encouraged by Contractors, Government Officials and Unions. A dream come true that turned into a living nightmare. After being fraudulently induced into this venture, it did not take me long to realize there was something terribly wrong. The people that had pledged to ensure my success were undermining the business, the work being performed and my sanity. I had heard the term “Gaslighting” but it wasn’t until I was living it did I understand the full potential of the mental trauma. I assure you, it is not for the faint of heart. Looking back over the last decade, I appreciate I am lucky to be alive. Enduring “Workplace Bullying, Harassment and Manipulation of the laws put in place o protect us was horrific. As the brutality increased and the bizarre behaviors

{ WOMEN WHO INSPIRE { SHIFT+CONTROL } } “If they didn’t want us to talk about it, they never should have done it.”

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{ SHIFT+CONTROL SPECIAL FEATURE } } “Like so many Whistleblowers the safety and security we sought through the designed remedies in the Legal & Judicial System failed miserably.”

more glaring, I began to challenge and investigate everything. Intentional Mental Torture is a form of terrorism and in my opinion, the most harmful, malicious and inhumane treatment that anyone could experience. But at the time that it was happening, I didn’t recognize the impact that it would have on my health, nor did I completely understand how it could be carried out an order given to take me down. The implosion on my life shattered all reality. Like so many Whistleblowers the safety and security we sought through the designed remedies in the Legal & Judicial System failed miserably. Attempting to save the career and lives we had created, we reached out to the government agencies which were the known resource to provide the legal cures established via the Justice System. The “Kill them in legal fees” playbook was unknown to us at the time, but after years of being denied these protections, throwing away good money after bad in attorney fees, our realization that the Legal System is not meant for justice, but rather a muse to shut you down. Through our eyes this became a secondary victimization causing further disbelief and trauma. When these systems betrayed us, it was done in such a way that our fundamental belief in fair and blind justice was another fundamental belief that was ripped from us. Overhearing a telephone conversation about Pam, I was stunned. Not believing what I was hearing and recognizing that there was going to be a planned attack on the career of a Professional Woman in construction. I was known for getting point across with dry sarcasm. Late one evening working in my office I overheard a startling conversation. My employer had multiple construction projects in Upstate New York. It was unusual for multiple projects to be managed by women. It was also unusual for top Management to become involved

in the day to day project operations. Two projects being managed by Women in authority who were named Pam were now unknowingly in a battle with an opponent they had never met. My comment of “Looks like you are having some problems with the Pam(s)” was not well received, to say the least. Those ten words started a tirade of anger and misogyny that I had not experienced before. For a brief second, I thought he was joking. With fists in the air, agitated and in a threatening manner “This is why women don’t belong in construction” was shouted at me as I was attempting to leave the building! This was the same man that told me I would be a great Woman Contractor and induced me into starting my company, Structural Remediation Services, Inc. And those words, along with the details that I overheard that night to destroy another Woman’s career is what sent me on my search to find Pam Marcotte. Now I knew just how serious and devastating the words I overheard could be possibly be. After numerous attempts to contact Pam at The City of Rochester, finally I was told that she had been out on Medical Leave for months. The knot in the pit of my stomach told me that I had to find her. I knew what happened without even talking with her. I wondered if Pam realized what had been done to her, how far they were willing to go and if there was anything I could do to help. After several months I engaged a Private Investigator who provided Pam’s address so I could leave a note hoping she would call me. “I know what happened to you. Please call me”. This was the beginning of a friendship turned Sisterhood that ultimately carried us through the Fall, the Breakdown and Rebuilding our lives one day at a time. Looking back to the June of 2013 issue of Rochester Woman’s Magazine, I recognize the importance of the theme Rebuilding.

In the issue it was written “As an Architect, Pam Marcotte has spent her career designing and helping build structures, but in 2011 her life changed dramatically when she realized she would have to rebuild her body. In late 2010 Marcotte who’s Mother and four maternal Aunts died of Metastasized Breast Cancer, learned she carried a mutated BRACA 1 Gene, making her 50 to 80 percent more likely to develop Breast Cancer in her lifetime.” After the Prophylactic Double Mastectomy when the article was written, my intention was to share my challenge for one purpose only. I wanted to be sure that other women did not lose hope or find themselves in despair. I made a decision to have my breasts removed knowing that I had three sons that I lived for and the painful memories of losing my Mother to an aggressive Breast Cancer when she was only fifty-four years old were the motivators. After the surgery I refused to except the chronic pain that is common with this surgery and researched how I could move forward. I pursued the expertise of a Rehabilitation Specialist and was fortunate to find a Certified & Master Professional Personal Trainer. It was in that article that I stated that I wanted to reach at least one person who may be going through this invasive traumatic surgery and offer them hope. “Go talk to a Fitness Therapist or a Rehabilitation Therapist”. My persistence then to overcome that battle allowed me to rebuild my body and maintain my selfconfidence, while achieving my initial goal of pain reduction. Nothing could have prepared me for the life altering devastation that was intentionally inflicted through workplace terrorism that occurred less than a year later. I do not believe in coincidence! “Everything happens for a reason.” In January of 2013, Rochester Woman’s Magazine invited me to share my career succeeding as a Woman Commercial Contractor. I had started the CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

{ SHIFT+CONTROL SPECIAL FEATURE } } “I do not believe in coincidence! “Everything happens for a reason.”

business in 2009 in what I believed was a need for an experienced, legitimate woman business owner. The article titled “Building the Future, One Woman at a time was skillfully written by Kelly Breuer and her Team describing my adventure to that point. Seeing it in print made it real. The project that the article described in which I had a Contract with The City of Rochester, working with the same City Engineers I had in the past was my initiation into a world I did not know. My years in construction never prepared me for what I was about to experience. As the General Contractor on the Project, a Woman Owned Business, I found that there was an unspoken umbrella that I had previously been protected under. That umbrella of a cohesive relationship for the success of the project no longer applied to me. It was a game changer. This contract proved to be quite a contradiction with a different set of rules made just for me. At the Pre-Construction meeting that was held with the City Representatives, messages were sent loud and clear. Their attitude and comments gave me a strong inclination of how things were going to be.

Government” she said. This could not have been farther from the reality. I truly believed in the programs, the way they were designed and written. A Civil Rights Liaison from a Government Agency advised me that these programs were never meant to work. Just more propaganda to imply that the abuses that had been inflicted by others in the past were going to be corrected and that wasn’t factual. The only thing that really changed was the Playbook of hiding the corruption. I received the note Mary Ellen had left, but I was very hesitant to contact her. By that point I had been Gaslighted, Terrorized and Traumatized and trusted no one. Mary Ellen was persistent and we finally met. I cannot describe our first meeting, second or even third. But I do remember lying down on the floor in her office as she read to me transcripts of one of the trials that allegedly were for my justice. For a long time, it was just words spinning through my mind. Trying to understand such senseless, inhumane acts, I listened in disbelief, but this was the first time that anyone had offered any explanation as to why my career was destroyed.

My Project Manager attended the meeting with me. As we were leaving the project representative for the City approached us offering a job to my Manger. “Why don’t you come work for me and work for a real company? That is how the table had been set for me on this project and I assure you it only got worse. A different set of standards especially designed for me and very similar to the Sham Charges Pam had found herself exposed to. The article goes on to say “With a long and varied background in construction, Belding knew that her prior work connections would help her start her own business (about five years ago, we knew that legislation to really enforce the requirements to utilize small, minority & women owned businesses for projects that were being funded by the Federal & State

On one particular night, I sat as I heard the words being read from the court transcripts in disbelief. I had no idea that this hearing before a Federal Judge had occurred. What was more startling was finding out that the attorney I contracted with to represent my best interests had set me up to fail. There it was in black & white as the presiding Judge brought the potential harms that would negatively affect me to the attention of my attorney and it was ignored. They say the meaning of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting different results. It became blatantly clear that attempting to find justice against the City of Rochester in this system was insanity. The fix was in and I was never going to be remedied, it was now plain as day. Between the two of us, rambling, crying, shaking

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as we shared our stories, things became so much clearer. For first time in almost four years, I found out what happened to my career. The Favored Contractor had enlisted dozens of people to tear down what I had built. “Take her out”. When they say you can’t fight City Hall, I had no idea of its true meaning until Mary Ellen and I both became Targeted by the very system we believed would protect us. Aa result of our Professional experience, knowledge of construction as it related to the oversight systems and integrity both Mary Ellen and I were enlisted to support various internal investigations. Thinking we were working for the greater good, sacrificing what was left of our lives, we responded to the requests. That cooperation with oversight agencies directly responsible for the professional integrity in the City of Rochester became the next contradiction we never anticipated. That is when the heat was really turned up and we were introduced to Whistleblower Retaliation by the Government. We have learned many lessons over the last decade. The most important, lifesaving messages is to never lose hope. In a million years neither one of us could have ever imagined the surreal take down of our lives, the people involved and the culture of systemic complacency by the people entrusted to protect us. And clearly, I doubt that either one of us would have dreamed that we would have to redesign and rebuild our lives and where that journey has brought us together, along with hundreds of other people we have met in this incredible journey. Today we continue to strive for our recovery. Our Kids, Boating, Dancing, Music, Drag Racing, ATV’s, Traveling and lots of laughing was the perfect foundation we designed for the power it took to rebuild our lives.

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“We have learned many lessons over the last decade. The most important, lifesaving messages is to never lose hope.”

Pam is engaged to be married to a wonderful man and I have appointed myself the Wedding Planner. I continue my activism for Civil & Human Rights, Public Speaking, while working with Kathy Cole and Whistleblower Productions, LLC promoting our Documentary regarding the lives and experiences of New York Whistleblowers who exposed public corruption. Finding one another on Social Media, Kathy Cole asked me one day “What is it that you want?”. It was a simple answer. I wanted my story to be told. I was determined that to let other victims know that I understood what they were going through. I never wanted another woman to experience the devastation we faced alone. And here we are today. We have joined committees, received the Civil & Human Rights Award from the National Whistleblowers S u m m i t , attend speaking engagements, work on legislation and speak loudly with others for the voiceless. Our Documentary Film “Whistleblowers’ has received multiple awards which has led us into planning for our next film that will include the impact on our families and close friends and the life altering experiences of the Truth Tellers. Pam’s participation has been so meaningful to me and we are looking 74

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forward to getting the next project started.

https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=_dfUV8La4hY The message we want to leave you with is Don’t ever lose hope or give up! You never know what people will walk in and out of your life. Share your Story over

and over. Let your voice be heard. Stand beside one another, laugh and cry together, but whatever you do, don’t try to make it alone. After a decade of torture searching for the answers of how our lives could have been flipped upside down without any warning, we found our answers in the lives and experiences of others who shared their plight. We now know how many people

“What if educators need to hear our story of survival whiletruly we loved al and promoted pedagogical prac are thriving! If you decide not to remain challenged the social justification o silent, join social media, support groups sexism, classism, exploitation, and and find your Tribe. They never anticipated Dr. S.social R. B.media Reid and the value of technology, the many kind and wonderful likeminded IN CRISIS people that reachedEDUCATION out to us that shared As the country their adversity and compassion. We areteeters now on wh reopen or to remain a part of an elite group of Warriors. “If theyclose, the of education didn’t want us tocontinues talk to be aboutat it,the theyforefront never of the conversation. should have done it.”How do we open the country when areKelly unsure Thankwe you andabout opening schools? However, Rochester Woman before we consider Online magazine opening schools, can we for sharing the rest first consider our most of our stories! vulnerable population?

In the profession, we like to be education has evolved. We’ve inco manipulative, charts, graphs a representations. We allow mo flexible seating, alternate assessm the curriculum remains the sam

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W CRISIS, EXISTING CHALLENGE

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BY DR SHANELLE BENSON REID

Other aspects of society have improved, however the most important societal component has not; education has remained the same. How can we justify not revolutionizing our current educational system while our students have evolved, our society has advanced and other industries have adapted?

IMPEDING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT In most academic settings, children from diverse backgrounds and situations are less likely, when compared to middle-class and majority students, to have positive relationships with their middle-class teachers who do not represent similar backgrounds or situation. These differences reflect teachers’

biases, classroom management styles, and disparities in the severity of practices used for discipline. The use of prejudicial classroom management techniques with marginalized students is a common practice. Teachers, often times, perceive the behavior of males from diverse circumstances as more aggressive and severe than the behaviors of their non-diverse counterparts. These males who misbehave in the same way as their counterparts are more likely to be punished resulting in suspensions and expulsions. The severity of these disciplinary practices with minority students impedes their achievement in the classroom, excludes them from advance courses, alienates them from the general school population, increases incidents of misbehavior, and leads to lower academic expectations and higher drop-out rates. SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS Classroom disciplinary practices are also influenced by students’ socioeconomic status. Educators tend to view low-income students as having the highest potential for behavioral problems. Consequently, students from low-income homes, regardless of ethnicity, are disciplined more often than middle-class students. In addition, teachers of low socioeconomic children most often use or support the use of corporal punishment, verbal punishment, or suspension, when compared to teachers of middle-class students. Some of the behaviors by culturally diverse, lower socioeconomic status students that teachers find annoying and/or problematic are behaviors that serve as a function in the students’ world outside of school. LOCKED OUT CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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NEW CRISIS, EXISTING CHALLENGE BY DR SHANELLE BENSON REID

“What if educators truly loved all children and promoted pedagogical practices that challenged the social justification of poverty, sexism, classism, exploitation, and racism?” Dr. S. R. B. Reid EDUCATION IN CRISIS As the country teeters on whether to reopen or to remain close, the question of education continues to be at the forefront of the conversation. How do we open the country when we are unsure about opening schools? However, before we consider opening schools, can we first consider our most vulnerable population?

component has not; education has remained the same. How can we justify not revolutionizing our current educational system while our students have evolved, our society has advanced and other industries have adapted? IMPEDING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT In most academic settings, children from

T H E S TAT E O F EDUCATION Philosophically, I do not believe in the structure of public education. Our entire system is inadequate and antiquated. As a student, I recall thinking to myself; nothing this teacher says is encouraging me to get excited about education. I’m not interested in math, I’m not interested in science, I’m not interested in social studies and I’m not interested ELA, I guess in actuality, I wasn’t interested in school but I trusted the process so I pressed on. In the profession, we like to believe that education has evolved. We’ve incorporated manipulative, charts, graphs and visual representations. We allow movement, flexible seating, alternate assessments but the curriculum remains the same. Other aspects of society have improved, however the most important societal

diverse backgrounds and situations are less likely, when compared to middle-class and majority students, to have positive relationships with their middle-class teachers who do not represent similar backgrounds or situation. These differences reflect teachers’ biases, classroom management styles, and disparities in the severity of practices used for discipline. The use of prejudicial

classroom management techniques with marginalized students is a common practice. Teachers, often times, perceive the behavior of males from diverse circumstances as more aggressive and severe than the behaviors of their non-diverse counterparts. These males who misbehave in the same way as their counterparts are more likely to be punished resulting in suspensions and expulsions. The severity of these disciplinary practices with minority students impedes their achievement in the classroom, excludes them from advance courses, alienates them from the general school population, increases incidents of misbehavior, and leads to lower academic expectations and higher drop-out rates. SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS Classroom disciplinary practices are also influenced by students’ socioeconomic status. Educators tend to view low-income students as having the highest potential for behavioral problems. Consequently, students from low-income homes, regardless of ethnicity, are disciplined more often than middle-class students. In addition, teachers of low socioeconomic children most often use or support the use of corporal punishment, verbal punishment, or suspension, when compared to teachers of middle-class students. Some of the behaviors by culturally diverse, lower socioeconomic status students that teachers find annoying and/or problematic are behaviors that serve as a function in the students’ world outside of school. LOCKED OUT Student behavior is severely scrutinized when teachers and administrators do not understand and /or represent diverse CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

ACCESS GLOBAL }} {{ SHIFT+CONTROL “However, before we consider opening schools, can we first consider our most vulnerable population?”

backgrounds and situations. From this perspective, marginalized students’ behavior is not just different from their non-marginalized counterparts in culturally arbitrary ways; it disrupts what schools are attempting to accomplish, causing hostile dynamics in the educational environment. Subsequently, students from diverse backgrounds and situations are more inclined to misbehave when they are matched with teachers who do not represent diverse groups versus being matched with teachers who do. This stressed relationship between students and teachers leads to students eventually being locked out of education due to suspension / expulsion and prevents academic success causing a resistance to schooling and other majority-controlled institutions: which further perpetuates feelings of oppression and subjugation. In an attempt to maintain “group” identity, marginalized students develop peer groups that reject symbols and behaviors that are not in alignment with “group” think and academically successful students from diverse backgrounds and situations, are frequently at risk of being sanctioned by peers for rejecting “group” values. DISCIPLINE AND CULTURAL CONGRUENCE On the other hand, many teachers from diverse backgrounds and situations are able to operate with ease when disciplining marginalized students. The teacher’s ability to achieve this task is possible because students and parents have culturally congruent backgrounds with the teachers. This cultural congruence helps the stakeholders relate to one another more efficiently. Identifying connections further bridges necessary gaps that foster healthy relationships and open communication between students, parents and teachers. Parents are more willing to accept corrective language and consequences when there are similarities between the participants. 82

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Conversely, when a teacher who does not identify with diverse circumstance is faced with the daunting task of disciplining a student from a diverse condition, underlying factors must be considered; preexisting beliefs about poverty, racially discriminatory practices, disconnection and lack of trust to name a few. The problem with educating students of color in America is precisely that, a problem because our school system is a microcosm of our society.

this bridge from awareness and caring to learning and achievement is necessary for a successful school career, it is vitally important for students from disenfranchised backgrounds, who tend to experience more challenges in their personal and academic lives. Students from these backgrounds and communities benefit from the type of support that nurtures emotional growth while simultaneously providing optimal conditions for effective learning.

Therefore, disenfranchised students suffer in schools because staff, who have the power to label, categorize and define, are not always well intentioned, yet these feelings of oppression are mitigated when disenfranchised parents work with teachers from diverse backgrounds and situations.

EQUITY IN EDUCATION Achieving equity in education requires a shift in educational philosophy and practices. This transformation involves understanding each student’s individual needs and designing educational experiences that address those needs. Furthermore, attaining educational equity requires making sure every student has the support he / she lacks. In addition, this advancement entails putting systems in place to ensure that every child has an equal chance for success.

THE TRANSFORMATION Research clearly states, adequate representation in the teaching profession improves educational outcomes for all students. However, the focus must not center entirely on diversifying K – 12 classrooms, but it is also necessary to investigate the needs of marginalized students, and how these needs are met on a continuous basis. In short, much can be gained from adopting a teaching philosophy that prioritizes student wellness and success over standardized testing and district distinction. TRUSTING RELATIONSHIPS Educating students from marginalized circumstances is a complex process involving big-picture considerations and specific instructional strategies; at the very least, these students need to know adults in their lives are aware of the cultural and social situations they encounter on a consistent basis and truly care about their personal and academic success. From this foundation, trusting relationships develop and serve as an essential context for learning. While

However, ensuring every child has an equal chance for success involves understanding the unique challenges and barriers faced by individual students and providing additional supports to help them overcome those barriers. While equity may not ensure equal outcomes, the goal is to strive for equal opportunity. This is especially true during periods of crisis.

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WOMEN TALK WITH PATRICE BY TAMMY REESE

In 1997 ten year old me in my kitchen everyday doing my chores pretending to be Martha Stewart would be my alone time and I would act is if I was talking to an audience with my special guest. Every little girl my age was playing with barbie’s or outside playing with friends. My friends were my imaginary guest and audience. I would talk and laugh about everything . We would talk about cooking even though I wasn’t a cook. We would talk about how to clean and how to make sure we are adding enough bleach to our dish soap so we didn’t miss a spot. We would joke, laugh, and have fun. Doing the kitchen as my chore was my favorite part of the day because I was in my own world having my own talk show. I was always the shy, quiet one with not many friends, but I knew growing up I wanted to help people in any way possible. Who knew growing up I would really make my 10 year old self dreams come to life. Fast forward to 2018 one summer night sitting on my best friend porch. We were having wine and laughing talking about all sorts of things. I noticed the more that we enjoyed the moment with our wine the more she was open with me. I thought how amazing it would be if more women could be as open with me over wine. How many more can have a safe place to communicate and just enjoy their time about any and everything. That’s when I got the idea to start Women Talk With Patrice and one day I posted the idea Facebook and I just did it. I knew then that I wanted to have

a talk show to help others feel heard and appreciated. I believe that it is crucial to know that there are people who want to hear what you have to say. When people understand that they’re being heard then they gain confidence. My goal is to make each person feel as comfortable as they can, never judged ,and always heard. Women Talk With Patrice is a place for real people and real discussions. When I started the show it was for women to have a platform to speak but as the idea grew I realized that I wanted more for the show. I began to

bring men on the show as well, I wanted the show to reach more groups of people. Women Talk With Patrice is for all age groups, race, and sex. We are able to have different topics with different opinions with all different types of people. It’s not your regular talk show, we bring in people from around the city even people from other cities to be on. Each episode can range from a dating show, to a show about fathers, a show about business, a show about new talent, mental health, self love, healing

from a relationship, black empowerment, sisterhood and many more. Women Talk With Patrice is something new and different for the community of Syracuse. We have so much talent and so many amazing people in the city and my goal is to showcase as many beautiful people as I can. My goal with the show is to have it on TV and to bring celebrities and all walks of life to the city of Syracuse. I was born and raised in Syracuse NY, growing up we didn’t see many women who looked like me on TV and I want to be that face and role model for all the little black girls and even the women my age. I am 32 years old and I am living proof that no matter the age you are you can still set and accomplish all your goals. You can make your 10 year old self very proud no matter what are the struggles you face day to day. Life has not been easy for me. I had my daughter at the age of 21, I went through abuse in the relationship and I live with anxiety, and depression but I have overcome so much. I want everyone to understand that they have a voice and whatever they are battling they are not alone in this world. Mental health in the black community is very important to me. I have done shows on mental health and I will continue to put light on that as well. I want people happy mentally, physically and spiritually. CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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“Women Talk With Patrice is more than a talk show it is an empowerment group for the community.”

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A healthy lifestyle is my goal and to bring people to that as well. Not only do I do a talk show I am a mother to a beautiful 11 year old girl and I also help my mother run her childcare center that has been open for 3 years now. My purpose in life is to help as many people as possible. I am continuing to work towards my dreams. 90

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I recently applied for the fire academy and passed my exam with a 95. Even though I am in my 30s I never feel like itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to late to follow your dreams. Women Talk With Patrice will open more doors for the community in Syracuse NY. It will help bring more people from different backgrounds and different cities together

You will also be able to come and enjoy a live taping of the show at a beautiful lounge with drinks and food. Women Talk With Patrice is live every Wednesday at 6pm on Facebook see you then.

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DON’T QUIT YOUR DAY JOB...YET! BY NATALIE SINISGALLI I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIOS

It starts with an itch. The Sunday night dread… “I don’t want to go to work tomorrow!” [complete with a toddler-esque pout]. That slow burn of anger when your boss won’t listen to your ideas about how to make things better at the office (again). The inane meetings during which you feel like your time could be better spent doing literally anything else in the world. The boring bag lunch you open for the 400th time that week, dreaming about a life in which you had more control over your schedule, destiny, and most importantly your lunch. “I should just work for myself ”. Michael Gerber calls it the “entrepreneurial seizure” in his book The E-Myth Revisted (sidenote: this is one of my all-time f a vo r i t e b o o k s , it’s recommended reading for all my coaching clients. Written in the 80s, it’s as relevant today as the day he wrote it). Many people reach out to me in the throes of this internal struggle expecting the same advice from me. “Do it!” “Be brave!” “Quit your job, start a business!”. That is not my advice. Or at least not in that order…

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For some lucky people who have financial independence and few responsibilities in life, this may be an option. However, as someone who operates from a mindset of optimistic pragmatism, I’m a huge believe in “proof of concept”. I like to know I can make at least a few dollars doing something before I’m ready to focus all my energy on it. You might be the

lily pad (and watch it grow) before you jump off your current one. Almost any business has some baby steps you can take to ease your way into it. Want to open a full brick-andmortar boutique that sells clothing and accessories? Start on poshmark. Want to open a bakery? Start selling cookies at your kid’s soccer games (not actually sure if that’s legal, but you get the idea). I rarely coach my clients into any situation that requires a ton of up-front capital investments without helping them first create a scenario in which they can prove that they can in fact make money doing “the thing”. Here are a few examples of paths I’d recommend with “keeping your day job”:

best clothing designer in town, but if you live in a nudist colony - you’re unlikely to have a successful business idea there.

I WANT TO BE A PHOTOGRAPHER → take the evenings and weekends to sharpen your skills, assist for other local photographers, build your portfolio and word-of-mouth, and start an instagram account.

So instead, I recommend flipping the order. Start your business, then quit your job. Work on it until you absolutely cannot go any farther, and THEN quit your job. Plant the next

I WANT TO BE A FITNESS TRAINER → start building / shifting your personal brand to be all about wellness - sharing workout tips and lots of photos of you working out.

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“My other favorite starting-point plan is to find a different day job that is more analogous to your desired profession that would support it’s growth.”

gym, and research what certifications / insurance you’ll need to be legit. I WANT TO OPEN A CLOTHING BOUTIQUE → start filling your instagram feed with photos of yourself in cute clothing, and offer clothing tips and tricks. Sell 1:1 styling services, and use poshmark or liketoknow to make money selling your clothes in a virtual storefront. I WANT TO BE A REAL ESTATE AGENT → start working on your personal brand, and update your headshots. Make sure the people who follow you know who you are, and what you care about. Figure out a way to connect that to selling houses… maybe you really love pets, so you start sharing tips about how people can make their houses more dog friends, meanwhile start the process for getting your real estate license. I WANT TO MAKE AND SELL JEWELRY → start an etsy shop and see which of your pieces sell. Learn to take photos of your work (you can do it with your cell phone!) or save up and invest in a branding / product 96

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shoot with a local photographer. Research which local shows you should participate in. I WANT TO OPEN A CO WORKING SPACE THAT OFFERS COMMUNITY EVENTS → start collaborating with local businesses

to create events and build awareness about your involvement in supporting local freelancers / remote workers. Find local spaces that would allow you to host pop-up co-working spaces. I WANT TO BECOME A WEB DEVELOPER → decide what types of businesses you’d most like to work with, and find a couple to build websites for a discounted rate with

the disclaimer that you can include them in your portfolio. Create screen grabs of the BTS work to share on social, and interview your clients after their sites are live to get killer testimonials. While it might not be glamorous… (late nights, early mornings, saving money, no more netflix and chill), the financial security it provides is usually worth it. Your audience should be asking you to open a business by the time you are ready to. My other favorite startingpoint plan is to find a different day job that is more analogous to your desired profession that would support it’s growth. If you’re currently a paralegal, but want to become a fitness trainer, a better job for you could be the receptionist at a gym. You would take a paycut in the short term, but the connections you would make would pay off in the long term, and still provides some stability. So go ahead and quit your day job. Just make sure it’s not the only step to your plan.

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REVOLUTIONARY NEW HOLISTIC FITNESS DESIGNED FOR OPTIMAL WELL-BEING AND DESIGNED FOR YOUR HUSTLE.

ONLINE FITNESS-SKINCARE-NUTRITION CONSULTATIONS WITH DR. PAM AND SUPERCORE COACHING TEAM AVAILABLE AT

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SHE HUSTLES TALKS WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES

-DR PAM DENTON - ACCESS DENTAL - THE ENCHANTED BUTTERFLY SHOP - KURVIE KULTURE - SHERIDONNA DESIGNS, LLC - RILEY JOY CANDLES - THE HIGHLINE ROCHESTER - CONVERSANCE - LOVE FOR WORDS - AND MORE!

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SUPER CORE BY PAM DENTON

HOW TO INCREASE YO U R S E L F - C A R E TO MAXIMIZE YOUR HUSTLE Are you in need of supportive selfcare solutions to burn through stress and achieve the full potential of your hustle?

self-care health care mindset and establish routines, regimens and even rituals. The #1 thing you need to realize about self-care, caring for your body, mind and emotional state is the gift that gives back, it will increase your vitality. Your level of your dedication and follow through will give you the

Hustling when you are low on energy is tough, almost impossible AND your self-care is the answer to reduce your stress and increase energy!

In order to hustle in this ever changing world it is important to develop a

So how do you accomplish a selfcare regimen in the midst of intense challenges of modern day life? Take one day at a time. Every day you focus on self care and self love you add into the investment account of your health. Think of each practice you choose to be investment capital. Decide at what ACTION you WANT to take TODAY to improve your self care. It is action that creates results and from every action you receive vitality and lifeforce.

When you choose to hustle it’s very important to increase self-care so you can keep up with the pace. Selfcare gives you the inner power to produce results in business and life, but you have to want it enough to slow down and get rejuvenated. Here’s the thing, your body and mind are desiring relief from today’s overload of polluted foods, stressful lifestyles, unhealthy relationships, and metabolic shutdown. When you hustle, let’s just say you need even MORE relief, because you are adding in the need for more energy and power.

care for yourself.

Realize and recognize that self-care takes patience, persistence and dedication. You can achieve what you want, just take the time to practice.

reward of passion and motivation. As you focus on in depth self-care practices there is a release of toxins,a resetting of your metabolism, and building of strength. Your body feels cared for rather than neglected and it says thank you. Your mind finds a state of renewed calm because you have chosen to take a time-out to

As you begin to practice self-care at deeper levels you will see immediate improvement of health and revitalization of your body’s positive energy. Here are some amazing solutions that will get you results: Your skin is the gateway to inner bliss and self love. Make sure to develop a healthy skin care routine. Healthy

{ { SHE HUSTLES TALKS} } SHIFT+CONTROL â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hustling when you are low on energy is tough, almost impossible AND your self-care is the answer to reduce your stress and increase energy!â&#x20AC;?

skin care products will open your body and mind to a state of calm and creativity. Movement can set you free. When you move, no matter how you move, you can come ALIVE. Take a walk outside, join an online fitness class, breathe and connect all great ways to move energy and vital life-force. Your mind is a power generator for your hustle to greatness. Clear your 104

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mind and you will feel full of positive motivation. Meditate, visualize, yogacize, and practice the law of attraction mindset. These are all great ways to clear the mind of obstacles and set yourself free from stressful mindsets that keep you stuck. Self care will make sure you put yourself first and your desire to hustle will come alive! Dr. Pam Denton is founder of

SuperCORE: Positive Motivation Fitness that includes health consultations, online bootcamps, nutrition and skincare. Jo i n D r. Pa m a t w w w. youhavesuperpower.com or check out her skincare line at www.seacretdirect. com/drpamdenton

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FIT TO REIGN BY CORRIN STELLAKIS I PHOTOS BY LAURA MARINO

Hi ladies! My name is Corrin Stellakis and I am the owner of Fit to Reign. What is Fit to Reign? It is a business that is dedicated to helping women achieve their goals and become the best possible versions of themselves. It is a place where women inspire and empower one another.

constructively make decisions about the future, have an increased awareness of personal responsibility, and improve communication and coping skills. I am there for my clients and together, we build a unique relationship. I listen, advise, inform, respect, challenge, and

Fit to Reign is about helping women become mentally, intellectually, socially, spiritually, physically, and emotionally fit. Everyone struggles with one, if not all, of these areas, and I am here to help in every aspect. I am a self-development coach, make-up artist, pageant coach, and personal trainer. I work with women on a one-to-one basis. Fit to Reign Studios is dedicated to creating a comfortable atmosphere where women can reach their goals and feel confident with their progress. I lovingly refer to Fit to Reign as “The Beauty and The Beast.” I believe that women are both strong and beautiful. On one side of Fit to Reign Studios there is “The Beauty.” This is where I help women develop in many different areas. As a Self-Development Coach, I connect with young women on a personal level to foster a deepened self-awareness and selfunderstanding. My clients learn tangible tools that can help them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. They learn to form healthy personal boundaries,

support my clients. Through Fit to Reign Self-Development Coaching, they will learn to honor themselves, overcome obstacles, achieve goals, and grow into the successful, happy, and confident young women that they are meant to be.

Do you know of a young lady that struggles with social anxiety, organization, negative feelings about herself, choices around dating/sex/break-ups, the formation of healthy personal boundaries, decision-making about the future, setting life goals, communication, coping skills, or a sense of personal responsibility? Do you find that she is over critical of her appearance? Is she struggling with school, friends, and finding a balance in life? Is she concerned about “fitting in?” Does she have a difficult time managing stress or finding joy? Does this young woman need a better understanding of who she is and how valued and loved she is? Does she have leadership potential, but does not know how to utilize and channel her spiritual gifts? I would love to help her develop into a strong, confident, and capable young woman. With degrees in communication, psychology, and counseling, I am well equipped and prepared to help her grow and develop. I enjoy building a bond and relationship with my clients founded on trust and respect. Fit to Reign SelfDevelopment Coaching will be the best decision you have made for her. Another area of concentration is interview preparation where I teach women techniques on how to create a lasting impact in any interview and how to communicate their ideas through verbal CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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SHERIDONNA WILSON FASHION DESIGNER& ENTREPRENEUR Q & A with Sheridonna! Q: What drives and inspires you to be a entrepreneur ? How long have you had your brand Sheridonna Designs LLC ? A: Having a better life inspires and drives me to be an entrepreneur. Growing up I s awhow my mother struggled so much in her life. Working a low paying 9-5 and never being able make enough. I told myself I never want to do that. I wanted to be able to be there for my kids and make a living while doing the things that I love and passionate about. I knew I had to break the family curse. In order to do that I had to have radical action. Both my parents were very fashionable. Growing up in Kingston, Jamaica my parents gave me the best things life had to offer for a short period of time. When my dad got hit off his Yamaha red motorcycle and died. Everything came crashing down. I had to move to the United States two days before my 10th birthday. My whole life change drastically. I was devastated the life that was given to me was swept aways. Reflecting , my whole life has been a character building opportunity. Through all my

pain, struggles, hardship, losses still I rise. Without all these traumatic experience the world would not see this marvelous, fierce, powerful, beautifully, passionate, loving and humble women today. I am grateful for the journey. Sheridonna Designs LLC is a manifestation of everything I want for myself. My brand is my baby; it’s been 3

Q: What the 5 characteristic that describes you? A: The 5 characteristics that describe me disciple, determined, humble, passionate, grateful bonus enthusiastic Q: If you can tell your 10 year old self what would you tell her? A: I would tell little Mamatu you are Sheridonna! You are fierce, powerful and beautiful. You are that girl! Stay true, passionate, humble, caring, and respectable to you and others. Listen to your instinct. Honor yourself, love yourself. You are who you have been looking for! Focus on becoming your greatest version. Go be great? You got it . Q: Who inspires you and why? A: Well, there are many people who inspire me such as my kids Joseph and Isabella Bedell, family, mentors Mindset Morgano, Ralph Smart, Gary Vee and RC Blakes, nevertheless going through my journey I have been inspiring myself. I see how far I have come and how much I have accomplished.

years since I made it official; My mission is to inspire the world with my experiences. Not because you come from toxic and traumatic experience it doesn’t mean you have to say there. It’s your job to create the life you want. You are the creator! This is what I did with Sheridonna Designs. My plan was to create the life that I always wanted with the freedom to be creative and passionate.

Q: What other field of expertise do you have? A: I am also a model, salon owner/stylist, notary, educator, podcaster & writer Q: As a Island women what makes you special? What’s your superpower? A: My heart, my compassionate, willing to forgive. The ability to communicate CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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A: My heart, my compassionate, willing to forgive. The ability to communicate through many different medium such as modeling, speaking, writing, graphic design and design. Communication is my superpower.

all work out in your favor. Q; If you can work with anyone who would it be?

Q: What advice would you give the future fashionista’s and entrepreneur of the world? A: I would tell the future fashionista’s & entrepreneurs to always do what you love the rest is “your story”. Always listen to yourself, only you know what’s best for you. Be patient with yourself.

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A: When I graduated from Syracuse University. It was the most fulfilling moment I gave to myself. I told myself I was going to do I and I did. I felt accomplished and successful. I am the first in my family to graduate from a ivy league College, This was a very big deal in my family. I know this was the first step to make the massive changes in my family. Q;Who has been the most influential person or person in your life thus far? Why? What did they teach you.

Rome was not build in one day. To become your greatest version you must stay focus on yourself and stay true to yourself. How others see you is not your problem, how you view yourself is the ONLY thing that should concern you. So, love on yourself, respect yourself, and be kind to yourself. Eve r y t h i n g w i l l happen in great divine order. Your blessings will never miss you. Remember that so never chase love, money, or people. You are a marvelous been and enough just the way God created you. Just smile everyday it will

Q;What is your memorable moment in your career thus far? Why?

A: Lol! there has been many influential people that has been impactful in my life. The physical absent of my father has made a huge impact in my life. This obsent created this fabulous Queen! He sacrifice his life for me to have massive successful in my life. He taught me to be firm and strong no matter the obstacles. I am his princess and now I am the world’s Queen . Enjoy your success with grace and style. A: I am going to work with many elite artist such as Brandy, Angela Bassett, Beyonce, Rihanna, Kelly Rowland, Yolanda Adams just to name a few.

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BRACKENS FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS NETWORK BY VICKI BRACKENS

BFSN is a boutique Financial Services Firm focused on Strategic Financial Planning for Individuals concerned with: The Creation of Sustainable Retirement Income. We believe that the creation of sustainable retirement income requires an understanding of the overlapping disciplines of Risk Management, Investment Management and Estate Preservation. Our goal is to control risk without inhibiting investment flexibility. Through the collaborative use of tools, technology and talent we act as an advocate for the unique financial

needs of every client relationship. For a quarter of a century our mission has been and continues to be: Advocate, Advise, Monitor and Motivate every client as they work to fulfill their financial destiny. Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC (finra.org and sipc.org). Investment advice offered through Stratos Wealth Partners, Ltd., a registered Investment Advisor. Stratos Wealth Partners, LTD. and Brackens Financial Solutions Network, LLC are separate entities from LPL Financial. The LPL Financial representative associated with this

site may discuss and/or transact securities business only with residents of the following states: AL, CA, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, MA, NY, NC, SC, TX and WA. Third party posts found on this profile do not reflect the views of LPL Financial and have not been reviewed by LPL Financial as to accuracy or completeness. Third party post found on this profile do not reflect the views of LPL Financial and have not been reviewed by LPL Financial as to accuracy or completeness.

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ROSHEDA LAMPKIN BY ROSHEDA LAMPKIN

Hi! My name is Rosheda Lampkin I’m 33 years old. I was born and raised in Syracuse NY. I am a mom of a 13 year old. My daughter is my greatest creation. I’m a professional Makeup Artist. I have been intrigued with makeup since the age of 18. Fashion design is also a love of mine. My parents motivated me to pursue my dreams in fashion design. Another interest of mine is interior design. I love seeing the final results of making a house a home.

matching a woman of color. She was also unfamiliar with prepping the skin before applying makeup. For these reasons I decided to become a Makeup Artist. I wanted to make girls everywhere feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin. For the past 15 years I’ve been doing makeup and skincare. I’ve done makeup for

I’ve always been creative. Creativity started for me at the age of 6. Drawing became an outlet for me. It lead me to become a fashion designer. What inspired me was Japanese culture. For example, the wear of Japanese kimonos. The print on the kimonos were very creative. They were different and unique. Which lead me to creating my own brand, Niyah Amori. The brand is named after my daughter. Makeup for me stems from a bad make up experience. During prom every girl wants to look her best. So she hopes to find the best dress, hair, shoes, and Makeup Artist. Lets just say that didn’t happened for me, everything that could go wrong did. The woman who did my makeup did not display her best work. For example, she was inexperience at color

proms, weddings, special occasions, and more. I’ve also worked for brands and companies such as BareMinerals, Ulta Beauty and Sephora. I’ve gotten to meet influencers, celebrity makeup artists and YouTubers from all over. I’ve also traveled to makeup conventions.

For example, IMATS and BeautyCon. I have networked with a lot of people and was taught by Makeup Artists such as Nitraa.B, Jackie Aina and PatrickStarr. Just to name a few! I also worked with big makeup brands that sends me PR packages. In which I review, test and give my opinions on the products. I’m so grateful and bless to do what I love. Now that I’m transitioning there’s so much more that I’m interested in. I’m now captivated by Interior Design. I have to acknowledge my mom for planting the seed on interior design in me. I enjoy making my home as well as others beautiful and amazing. I have helped design kitchens, offices, bedrooms and living rooms for friends and family. Some of the inspiration has come from television shows such as HGTV and social media sites like Instagram. I have also helped to design clients homes when I worked for companies such as Pier One, Home Depot and Michaels Arts and Crafts. At Pier One I designed 3 dimensional rooms. While at Home Depot I helped customers decided between color pallets. Floral design was one of my task at Michaels Arts and Crafts. As you can see I am very passionate about Interior Design, Fashion Design CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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“ I’ve always been creative. Creativity started for me at the age of 6. Drawing became an outlet for me. It lead me to become a fashion designer. ”

and Makeup. My biggest inspiration and who I inspire to be is my mother Cheri Lampkin she’s no longer here with me, but always in my heart, She has pushed me to be different, unique, creative and to be the boss that I am. Both my parents are the reason why I pushed myself to work hard and 142

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learn more than what I know and break boundaries. To create my own lane and to never give up on anything that I do in life. My dad taught me to be the jack of all trades. I carry these things over to my daughter and for all black young girls and woman, who wants to be Entrepreneurs and

leaders. You can follow me which is on Facebook Niyah_amori and my Instagram page Niyahbeauty1 & and soon to have my YouTube page Niyah_

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{{ SHE SHE HUSTLES HUSTLES TALKS TALKS }} “As a professional model, I offer model coaching for young girls and women looking to create a profession in the modeling industry.

and nonverbal means. The interview philosophy at Fit to Reign creates focus, helps to increase vocabulary, instills confidence, helps you create a presence, express your personality, connect with the interviewer, and helps you to leave a lasting impression in any interview. You will gain interpersonal skills, critical thinking skills, be able to communicate your ideas more effectively, and increase thought-processing speed.

One of the most popular areas of coaching at Fit to Reign is pageant coaching! Pageants allow women to gain life experience and new skill sets, as well as make lasting friendships, and professional connections. As a 2-time

At Fit to Reign women also learn how to speak in public with confidence. I assist my clients in writing, editing, and performing their speech. How you communicate with the audience is very important, so I will teach you how to create that personal connection with the audience while you are speaking. You will learn techniques on how to ease your nerves, communicate your thoughts thoroughly, inspire and command an audience. As a professional model, I offer model coaching for young girls and women looking to create a profession in the modeling industry. It is important to learn a model walk, and techniques to get the best angle in front of the camera. During your training, I will work to develop your confidence, a strong walk, striking poses, facial expressions, great posture, and fluid movement patterns.

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international, 2-time national, and 4-time state titleholder, I know what it takes to prepare for and win the crown. During the preparation process, I will assist clients with filling out the necessary paperwork, work with clients on interview and public speaking skills,

fitness level, walking and posing, image/ wardrobe, and platform development! On the other side of Fit to Reign is “The Beast.” This is where I coach my personal training clients. The “Beast” is where women transform their bodies and become physically Fit to Reign. In the personal training studio (“The Beast”), I assess each client on their current fitness level and then construct a personalized program to help them reach their goals. Each client is different, therefore each client will have a different fitness plan. I work with my clients on endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility training. At Fit to Reign, my main goal is to make you feel confident, healthy, and strong! Although I have a physical location in North Syracuse for Fit to Reign, I also know that sometimes it is not convenient for many women to come to my location due to proximity, or simply time restraints. For this reason, I offer video chat sessions all over the country! My clients are in all different states, of all different ages, and all have a unique personal goal. I love seeing each of my clients meet their goals and achieve their dreams by helping them become Fit to Reign. WWW.FitToReign.com Instagram: @Fit_To_Reign , @FitToReign @CorrinStellakis

MAKENNA

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RECOVRX BY RACHEL PRUTSMAN

Ladies. Let’s talk about anxiety. Isn’t it unfair that we as women are twice as likely as men to develop anxiety disorders in our lifetime? Whether it’s nervousness before your first “adult-job” interview, or it’s the last hours leading up to the moment you walk down the aisle, or you’re about to enter the forever changing life of a mother. We all experience some kind of anxiety in our lifetime, and in a lot of ways experience it differently than men do. Women have to face sexism in the workplace, hormonal changes throughout our lives, and we experience traumatic events more often than our male counterparts. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) states that in the past year, the prevalence of any anxiety disorder was higher for females (23.4%) than for males (14.3%). In high school, it was all about fitting in and finding the right group to call your friends. Teen magazines told us what was trending and all the latest celebrity gossip. Romantic relationships had begun to emerge and friend groups would shift naturally. The influence of parents, teachers, and coaches to do 146

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well academically and athletically was upon us. Quickly approaching deadlines for exams, SAT’s, college applications, and scholarships could put any senior in a panic. In college, while the newfound freedom of being out of our parent’s house was exhilarating, it would also bring up separation anxiety for some. The pressure

to perform in both academic and athletic areas while fully enjoying the “college experience” was a balancing act. Besides that, women are more likely to develop an eating disorder due to stress and anxiety during this time, as we face unrealistic athletic standards and body image insecurities we thought we had left in high school.

We experience anxiety as women in the workforce. Balancing our home lives with our roles at work takes superhero strength as we have responsibilities in both arenas. We tend to have more hurdles to jump through to obtain high-level positions than men do, adding frustration and anxiety to our careers. For those who’ve planned a wedding know the stressors that come along with that. Who wouldn’t be nervous on their wedding day? A day full of expectations and having everyone’s eyes on you can cause your anxiety to get out of control. Taking shots all day has been a proven method to curve anxiety, but who wants to be intoxicated on their special day. Let’s not forget our friends who see everyone else getting married, except themselves. No, there’s nothing wrong with you. Society makes us think we need to be married at a certain point. But everyone has a timeline specific to them. Or the ones who don’t have a date for any of the weddings they are invited to. I’ve been there. Those around you say “where’s your date?” or “why aren’t you married yet?” to which we kindly reply, “mind your own business”. Motherhood can be another anxietyproducing event in many women’s lives.

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{{ SHE HUSTLES SHE HUSTLES TALKS TALKS { RECOVERX } }} “We experience anxiety as women in the workforce. Balancing our home lives with our roles at work takes superhero strength as we have responsibilities in both arenas.”

It is one of the hardest, yet rewarding jobs out there. There are many moments of joy, pride, and love that are accompanied by fear, worry, frustration, and guilt. It is not always glamorous and can often lead to comparison. Mothers know well the exhaustion that sets in as she tends to her baby’s needs. This change of life comes with many challenges as women navigate the role of motherhood. Anxiety is a normal and often healthy emotion of worry, nervousness, apprehension, or fear about an event or situation. It is a normal reaction to stress. However, when a person regularly feels disproportionate levels of anxiety, it might become hard to control. It’s hard to find a natural and effective way to cope with the many issues we have. Usually, when women seek medical advice they are prescribed some kind of medication 150

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that tends to have negative side effects. This past year I was working over 52 hours a week between two jobs while attending graduate school part-time. It got to a point where I was experiencing intense obsessive thoughts, lack of sleep, and forgetting to eat when I needed to. I would have minor panic attacks from time to time. It was affecting my daily life and I couldn’t just relax. The perfectionist in me was trying to do more than I should do, and it caused me to have health problems I’d never experienced before. Enough was enough. Seeking relief, I went to my doctor and was prescribed anxiety medication to help… but I wanted to go a more natural route. I researched alternative ways to help with my anxiety and found that CBD oil was just as, if not more, effective than my medication. A benefit of CBD is that it comes in a

variety of forms so there’s something for everyone. Having the choice between tinctures, salves, gummies, and soft-gels makes it easy to choose what works best for you. In addition to eating healthy, exercising more, and taking intentional time to relax, CBD helped me get back to my normal self. Recovrx, a Rochester based CBD company, commits to provide a more natural alternative to coping with anxiety and mental health issues through their pure, all-natural CBD products. Co-founders Digno Caminero and Greg Haas, both Rochester natives, have made it their mission to positively influence the lives of those who suffer from anxiety in a healthier way. CBD has become a solution to controlling anxiety for many people, including Haas, and continues to show its benefits to those seeking relief.

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INNER LIGHT TEACHINGS BY BETH LYNCH

H OW S P I R I T UA L I T Y HELPS US PERSONALLY & PROFESSIONALLY The many roles of women have evolved over time. With many thoughts come many emotions, responsibilities and at times pressure. All these emotions create frequencies that will download into our nervous system. Whether you have knowledge of not about consciousness it is important to understand that there is a magnetic force, always in motion and based on the frequencies our emotions create. It is the Law of Attraction. What many do not realize it this sacred and natural law is not only attracting but can repel or hold us still. The power of women understanding who they are as spiritual and as human beings is more imperative for our world, maybe than ever before. First let us understand what is meant by the spirit. The spirit is the aspect of our nature where our intuition, creativity, compassion, coping and connector to eternity exists. These are qualities that will be expressed through our personality in all relationships, and the most important one is the relationship with our Self. The personality needs these qualities to feel inspired, loved even to survive. These are spiritual principles that we are naturally aligned to. It does not matter your religious belief; this is the about the “spirit to live” as a human being. Imagine if we were taught that as young women? In spiritual principles our foundation for survival and security begin from 152

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conception to five years of age, through the bond of every emotion the mother has. All the experiences we have are expressed through emotions that energetically transmit to the baby. It may be hard to imagine that every thought and emotional response we have is channeling right in to the tiny precious being in our womb, and through life, but it is. It is happening with all of us every day. Every age, every relationship, and our perception of life. This is the silent language of the between us all. The spirit of who we are wants to embrace all things through love. A source of energy that will supply us with all we will ever need. Also, a source that many search for outside of themselves. The foundation is forming up till preteen. Then in teenage years the interaction emotionally, physically and even sexually begins to become natural. The search is on to understand emotions toward others and if the desire for fulfillment even to feel love will be outward or in the natural and oh so powerful inner self.

if you listened to your intuition from the start. In my sessions I have heard that from many women if they only had listened. This also applies to professional. What classes to take as we approach future goals in high schoolers should not be a stressful time, it should be exciting and a happy time. In my practice I have worked with many young girls dealing with anxiety and depression because of choices that became challenges because of fear and the right or wrong subconscious thoughts. Confidence, curiosity, and self-awareness would help. But how does that if we never are taught the natural and sacred power we have within?

The spirit of life will supply the personality with all the support it needs in the human experience. Your intuition is an inner compass, directing or even redirecting you through relationships. In a personal relationship you will not need a loving relationship because you are all the love you need. So, you attract love of the same nature or someone who feels the same. It also tunes you into relationships that may not be healthy for you. Often a partner is blamed for someone’s unhappiness. Imagine

This will connect us to the highest intelligence, our intuition, creativity, inner compass and releases us from pressures of time. Which is a human concept. When connected to our spiritual essence we release from this pressure and it is amazing how everything will get done!

As women we have this miraculous way of loving and nurturing others. But it is so important that we devote this to ourselves every day. Moments of awareness in how our thoughts are making us “feel”. Take moments to slow your breathing and even use a mantra to regain order in fast thinking and emotional responses.

Our compassionate, trusting nature to love others is our power and our strength. For some reason it can be perceived to be weakness. I can’t tell you how many times I hear a

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{{{ SHE HUSTLES SHE SHIFT+CONTROL HUSTLES TALKS TALKS { RECOVERX } }}} “Our spirit is who we truly are our spirit is our intuition, creativity, our coping skills, our connection to something eternal.”

woman say I just love too deeply, or I trust unconditionally, and this has gotten me in trouble. No, what got you in trouble is that you haven’t trusted your intuition. Ladies we must hold our own ground it’s that simple to be grounded to fulfill our own dreams through our creative expression through our spirit to live. Trust our intuition, as women, providers, lovers, and mothers we must know that these are our strengths. Our spirit is who we truly are our spirit is our intuition, creativity, our coping skills, our connection to something eternal. What greater gift do we give

ourselves and the children of the world, to understand that their creativity, their feelings, intelligence, and natural ability to heal pain is within. As a Spiritual Teacher and Consultant, I am dedicated to helping others understand and become devoted to a practice that will help them in all areas of their life. Personally, professionally. As a woman Imagine you could wake up every morning happy with who is around happy with where you are going in what you will be doing for the day happy and how you can support yourself your family. Just feeling happy,

connected to your intuitive and creative nature. Remember to keep it simple, your first thought everyday should be a moment of devotion to what you desire. I love the mantra, “I choose happy”. Open your eyes, take a few slow breaths, repeat it till you “feel” the shift. You have now aligned to the strength, love and power of your Spirit. In peace and love. Beth Lynch www.innerlightteaching.com

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KURVIE KULTURE BY LATIFFANY ANDERSON

SELF LOVE-THE OUTWARD JOURNEY The journey of self-love is just like the infinity symbol. It’s a constant loop which will never end. The way you feel about yourself, flows into every relationship you have. It is important for us to understand how we feel about ourselves effects every aspect of our lives. In order to be loved, you must love yourself first and then that will follow. I often ask during my styling sessions, “What do you love about yourself?” Many women will instantly name something physical. They will say something like “I love my legs, but I wish they were smaller”. I love my body, but I wish my arms weren’t so big. “I love everything except my stomach”. “My body would be perfect, if I didn’t have back fat”. In those moments I interject and ask “What makes you dislike those parts?” “Who decided that larger parts aren’t something to be celebrated?” “Why don’t you see your whole image as beautiful?” Often, they look at me and say, “I’m not sure” or state “it just is”. I then begin to inform them, “All bodies are beautiful”. Furthermore, all of our body parts, even the ones we want to change are gorgeous. I have to let them know dissecting your body, feeds into what the world

wants. Our conversations continue with questions and observations on how they feel about themselves. I try to steer the conversations into a positive light. MY goal as a stylist is not only to make sure my clients love their outfit, but for them to truly love the woman within the outfit. There is power in self-love. We have to understand that it all starts with our mindset.

Directing the MS. Kurvie pageants allows me to dig deeper into the minds of women who are plus size. Most of our contestants are women who wish they were “confident enough” to grace a stage. Over the years, I’ve heard several women say, “I’m not pretty enough”, or “I’m not like those other plus-size girls, I don’t love myself like them”. There were several contestants I’ve spoken to daily about their struggles and fears of not being able to match the beauty of the women they were competing

against. I am blessed to say, many of the contestants changed how they felt about themselves through the MS. Kurvie Pageant. My personal self-love journey is what allowed me to become a stylist, boutique owner, mentor, and pageant director. It took several years to be in the place I am today. I wasn’t always the secure, selfloving woman I am today. As a teenager, as my hips increased, my self-esteem decreased. I hid my shape, it was a source of embarrassment for me. Most of my friends were smaller in stature, and those who were plus-size didn’t have the same shape as I did. There wasn’t someone I felt could relate or share my struggles. Being uncertain of their reaction to my statements, I then internalized them. I didn’t have any images on TV or in the movies of women who looked like me. There wasn’t a reference of a plus-size woman being celebrated. Many will say, if a young girl has low self-esteem, she wasn’t told she was beautiful. I am a living contradiction of this statement. I was taught to love myself within my family. Although the lessons and “you’re beautiful” statements were always there, I didn’t know how to love my body. I didn’t know where to begin, I didn’t feel my pear shape was acceptable. No CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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matter who told me I was pretty, it wasn’t until I believed it when I started to see myself differently. Self-love or lack thereof flows directly into each person you interact with. Being confident in yourself shows through your conversations, and how you enter 158

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a room. In order to truly love another person, you have to understand who you are, and completely love who you are. There is an image society deemed as perfect. With social media and this rigid view of beauty, women have the constant pressure to be something that is unattainable. We are constantly being

force fed images of what we should look like, and if we do not meet those requirements our self-esteem is instantly attacked. I am on a life long journey to combat those ideas. Every day is an opportunity to take steps forward on the self-love journey.

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LOVE FOR WORDS BY CATYRA POLLAND

WHAT IS LOVE FOR WORDS? Love for Words is an editing boutique for writers and authors. Love for Words transforms manuscripts into books. Our target market is CEOS, business owners, and entrepreneurs who use their books and writing to build their platform. Unlike publishing companies, Love for Words is 100% committed to editing. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to worry about us dividing our time between formatting, obtaining an ISBN, copyright, or type setting. Our sole focus is editing. You write, we edit. Love for Wo rd s o f f e r s copyright and developmental editing services to Chief Executive O f f i c e r s . We transform manuscripts into books. You write, we edit. YOUR FAVORITE EDITOR CaTyra Polland is the CEO/Founder of Love for Words (an editing boutique for writers and authors), and Career

Prep, a professional development agency, a published author, editor, poet, speaker, instructor and cat mom to Honeycomb. She is also the Creator/Hostess of Editor Knows Best, an international writing and editing podcast for literary

her first book of poetry, Dear August, Love August. She is a Rochester Business Journal Forty Under 40 Honoree and the Professional Development Chair of the Rochester Young Professionals. CaTyra enjoys traveling, going to concerts, slam poetry, and going to the beach. Genres: Autobiography Inspirational Memoirs Motivational Non-fiction Novels Self-help Email: polland@ pollandllc.com | P h o n e Nu m b e r : 585.210.8192 www.pollandllc.com

professionals. She is also the publisher of Write, Wine & Quarantine, an anthology of stories and poems about the COVID-19 pandemic. CaTyra recently released CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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AVAILABLE NOW!

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HISTORY IN THE MAKING BY JAMIE LYNN GARNER I PHOTOS BY LENS OBSESSED PHOTOGRAPHY

Where were you when the world as we once knew it came to a crashing halt? Could you have ever imagined in your wildest dreams (or nightmares) that you would be living through such a time as history being made right in front of our very eyes, let alone multiple different historic moments? We, collectively, as a nation heard about Covid-19 in other countries while we wondered when and if it would reach us here in the states.

items became extremely hard to get your hands on. By March 22nd, 2020 Cuomo ordered all non-essential businesses to close by enacting the “NY on Pause” initiative. With that came the stay at home order which just made the world even more empty. Parks where children once gleefully played without a care in the world now sat empty like a desolate wasteland. Cities like NYC,

On March 1st, 2020, what we all feared would happen became a reality as New York got its very first positive case of Covid-19. By March 7th, NY Governor Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency here in New York. My last official day of work was on Friday the 13th of all days! I found myself with copious amounts of free time on my hands, so I decided to grab my camera and start documenting the crazy world around me and what I was witnessing. One of my biggest questions I kept asking myself was, “where in the world has all of the toilet paper gone?!?!” Amiright?!? Understandably people were scared, but I just was not seeing why it meant that everyone needed to stockpile and at this time hoard this commodity. The shelves at the store literally gave off a post-apocalyptic, end of the world scene, I really felt like Morgan Freeman should have been narrating it as I walked down the aisles. Meat cases, isles that once held water and other “essential”

Chicago, and Las Vegas that once touted titles such as “the city that never sleeps” were literal ghost towns. Children of all ages were missing out on schools days, from the little kids who couldn’t quite grasp why they weren’t allowed to go back to school and see their friends and favorite teachers to the high school seniors being robbed of their final days of a long school career that they’ve worked their behinds off to get there. The economy took a massive hit

as the unemployment rate skyrocketed to unprecedented record highs. All the while there is an overwhelmingly eerie, silent yet deafening sense of uncertainty surrounding every aspect of our lives as we sat riveted to social media and the news hoping to find some glimpse into what we were supposed to do. But through perseverance, we are flattening the curve of Covid-19’s reign on us. By making the necessary sacrifices that we’ve all had to make- from staying home to wearing a mask whenever you aren’t able to social distance- even these seemingly small acts add up and make a difference in the overall scheme of things, we are coming out on the other side of Covid-19a little battered but still standing! We are all so much stronger than we give ourselves credit for! Those of us that we’re called to serve by staying home had the easy part of it, the real heroes are the essential workers. The Respiratory Therapists and other medical professionals, the first responders, bus drivers, and grocery store employees who tirelessly and selflessly put aside their own fears and concerns over the hidden enemy that lurked around every corner and went to work in order to make sure everyone else in their communities had what they need despite their very own families missing them.

SHIFT+CONTROL { SPECIAL FEATURE } “Could you have ever imagined in your wildest dreams (or nightmares) that you would be living through such a time as history being made right in front of our very eyes, let alone multiple different historic moments? ”

Those are the ones that literally deserve the world but I can’t give that to themwhat I can give them in my absolute utmost respect and admiration as well as the most enormous thank you from the very bottom of my heart and I encourage each and every one of you to do the same! Fast forward a couple of months to May 25th, 2020. Covid-19 is still a very real presence and threat but now there was a new threat showing its face. The world woke up that morning and turned on the news or popped open Facebook while we had our morning coffee just to see the saddening news of the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis at the hands of a police officer. Outrage sparked across the world due not only to the fact that George was a black man and the officer was a white man but that this is an ongoing issue in modern society. The systemic racism that goes on in our world has started the “Black Lives Matter’’ movement. People already scared from Covid-19 and now this begins to take to the streets in protest to demand a much-needed change in the world. These people were not only demanding justice for George Floyd and 172

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the numerous countless other deaths, but for a change in policing policies. We need to put an end to systemic racism in our modern-day society- there is absolutely no space for it! People from all walks of life from all over the world are protesting every day just

for that change. Once again, I found myself with nothing but time on my hands so I decided to grab my camera and head down to one of the protests and all I can say is “wow!” I was completely floored with the outpouring of emotions that I was feeling from this crowd! The complete rawness and vulnerability of the people were breathtaking, and it is something I think everyone should the first-hand witness for themselves. If you cannot get to a protest near you, I hope

these pictures spark even a smidge of the emotion that I tried to capture! Once again New York is leading the in the history-making moves department with Cuomo making New York the first state in the nation to pass aggressive legislation for police reform bills that include such things as banning chokeholds and addressing 50A (which releases disciplinary records of all officers). This is a huge step in the right direction to ending systemic racism, but the fight is far from over. I am proud of the state I call home in standing tall and addressing these issues as quickly as they did and comping up with solutions. I am extremely glad that I took the time to get out and document these historic times and I encourage all of you to do the same (yes even with a cell phone! The only bad picture is a missed picture!)experience history and document it! Until next time- Stay safe out there! Hope you enjoyed reading, you can find more photos at https://www.facebook.com/ LensObsessedPhotography/ and www. instagram.com/lensobsessedphotography. --

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SHAYNA FOPPIANO BY MICHELLE DIBERNARDO

Shayna Foppiano is a 27 year old professional boxer that was born and raised in Everett, Massachusetts. When she is not training for a fight, she goes to her full-time job as a special education teacher. Shayna got involved with boxing in hopes that it could help improve her self-esteem and so she could learn to defend herself. Growing up, she was often bullied at school by the girls. They would follow her home in groups, and she remembers feeling horrified to go to school every day. Finally, at the age of 21, Shayna decided to take charge of her life and gain the confidence she so desperately strived for. She then met her coach Joe Lake and told him that she wanted to train with him and his team. Her coach told her that he only trained male professional boxers so if she really wanted to do this, she knew she was going to have to prove to him that she could work just as hard, if not harder, than all the boys. Three years later, her coach finally decided she was ready to turn professional. Without having any 174

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amateur career behind her, she bravely stepped into the ring for her professional debut and won with a TKO in the first minute and a half of the fight.

outside of the city of Boston in a city called Everett, Massachusetts.

Foppiano was married in June of 2019 in Cheshire, England to her very

I knew I wanted to be a fighter at 21 years old when my coach told me that he only trained professional men and a fire lit in my belly and from there I knew that I had to prove to him and myself that I could be a professional boxer as a woman if I wanted to, so I did.

How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a fighter?

What obstacles have you overcome being a woman in boxing?

supportive husband Brett. Shayna still remains undefeated and is excited to get back in the ring. CNYWO asked Shayna where she was born and raised? I was born and raised 10 minutes

The first and major obstacle was the initial rejection from my coach but I face constant criticism from many people that I meet. I usually hear “you’re too pretty to box”, but for me, I don’t ever think that way. Looks aren’t forever, and what boxing has done for me mentally is something I’ll never be able to repay. If I don’t feel good on the inside then who cares how I look on the outside? It is definitely difficult to be taken seriously in the industry based on how I look and because I’m female. I like to use that to my advantage though.

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“What advice would you give other women who want to get into the industry? DO IT! Boxing and boxing gyms can be extremely intimidating at first but the benefits you will feel once you consistently train are truly life-changing.”

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HER EDGE }} } } {{ SHE HUSTLES TALKS SHIFT+CONTROL {{ RECOVERX “I usually hear “you’re too pretty to box”, but for me, I don’t ever think that way.”

How does boxing affect my home life? I am very lucky to have a very supportive group of family and friends behind me. They are always at my fights ringside cheering me on. The only negative way that boxing affects my home life is how limited my social time becomes when I have a fight coming up. When I have a fight coming up my diet and schedule changes completely and I’m not able to go out to eat or attend family gatherings. Sometimes it is hard for

others to understand why I wouldn’t just skip training that day or cheat on a meal but I won’t do that.

mental benefits of training boxing are some that you will be able to utilize in your daily life.

What advice would you give other women who want to get into the industry?

Shayna is another professional female boxer whose goal is to be recognized at our Boxing Hall Of Fame.

DO IT! Boxing and boxing gyms can be extremely intimidating at first but the benefits you will feel once you consistently train are truly life-changing. Even if you aren’t planning on becoming a fighter, the

Ig- @ShaynaFoppiano

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THE ESSENTIALS BY MICHELLE DIBERNARDO I PHOTOS BY THE ECLECTIC EYE AND MICHELLE DIBERNARDO OF DIBERNARDO PRODUCTIONS

Some of us have been forced to stay home during Covid-19 which has led most of us to clean out our closets but what is essential to have. I have come up with my Top 8 essential items for any women’s closet. Having these closet ready will make you ready for any occasion and affordable if you do not already own them. Find my list below:

everyone to have. THE FAMOUS LITTLE BLACK DRESS A little black dress is great for any

LEATHER JACKET Throw it over a V-neck t-shirt with your favorite denim or pair it with your work look for a more edgy vibe. The best thing about leather is that if you take care of it they will last for quite some time.

BASIC T-SHIRTS The classic basic t-shirt can be paired with denim for a great casual look. How can you go wrong with basic t-shirts in any closet? Make sure you grab your season’s colors to match with your skin tone. V-necks are always an option.

FLATS Flats can be paired with almost any outfit, from casual to dressy. Be sure to find ones with good support for all-day comfort. Black and nude are always great to have to pair with anything in your closet.

QUALITY DENIM Denim comes in a variety of washes including a light wash, medium wash, dark wash, and black jeans. You can never go wrong with every color denim. These classic styles are sure to stay in style: slim-fit/straight leg, skinny, and cropped. Having these options keeps you versatile and ready for any occasion. CLASSIC SUNGLASSES Now sunglasses work as a fashion and a protective item. Sunglasses are a form of protective eyewear designed primarily to prevent UV rays from damaging or discomforting the eyes. The classic aviator will be forever essential for

CLASSIC BLAZER Now the fundamental way to finding the right classic blazer is finding one that you can layer with many different style tops ranging from classic t-shirts to button-up blouses. Blazers come in so many fun colors now.

PUMPS Pumps are sometimes the most common of high heels. They are usually wider than most heels and between 2 and 4 inches in height. Pumps can be used as everyday work shoes or formalwear.

occasion including formals, meetings, and dinners. Whether you want to glam it up or keep it casual a little black dress is essential in any women’s closet.

STILETTOS The stiletto heel is named after the stiletto dagger because it is a long, thin, high heel. Stiletto heels may vary in height from 1 inch to 10 inches! Both are essential in any women’s closet. CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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{ FASHION FORWARD } “Now that you know your season and my top 8 essentials to any women’s closet, get to organizing.”

So these 8 essential items will work for any woman who likes a little fashion during Covid-19.

to medium brown.

Now while choosing your color scheme you will want to buy into your season to look your best. There are 4 seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn & Winter. Some of you may know your season while others may not. Below I will explain how to determine your season. You will need to begin with your skin color, then your eyes and onto your hair color.

peach to golden beige, pale ivory, or golden black. Eyes- Dark brown, brown with flecks, clear blue or green. Hair- Red, strawberry blonde, chestnut are charcoal black. WINTER S k i n - Ve r y b l u e undertone, true black or milky white. Eyes- Dark brown or dark blue.

SPRING

Hair- White blonde, medium brown to black.

Skin- Golden to ivory peach or dark beige to a golden brown.

Now that you know your season and my top 8 essentials to any women’s closet get to organizing.

Eyes-Dark with golden flecks/highlights or bright. Hair- Strawberry, golden blonde, deep black, or dark brown with natural highlights.

Stay tuned with updates on myself and my business at www. MichelleDiBernardo. c o m , w w w . DiBernardoProductions. M e d i a a n d w w w. CreatorsFilmFest.com. I look forward to talking more Fashion with you next month.

SUMMER Skin- Blue-toned skin with definite pink undertones.

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Eyes- Pale blue, gray, soft brown, or hazel.

AUTUMN

Maternity model, Tatiana Martinez.

Hair- Blonde to ash blonde or light

Skin- Clear yellow gold undertone,

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SEX* *NOW THAT WE HAVE YOUR ATTENTION...

Announcing Western New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first comprehensive resource for sexual and relationship wellness and menopause medicine.

Introducing the Rochester Center for Sexual Wellness where sexual medicine specialists and certified sex therapists offer a holistic approach to sexual and relationship wellness. Offering confidential and open-minded care to people of all genders and sexualities that is specifically designed to help YOU meet YOUR GOALS. Also, featuring a nationally certified menopause medicine specialist to help make mid-life your BEST LIFE

CALL US AT 585-865-3584 FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.ROCHESTERCENTERFORSEXUALWELLNESS.COM

{ CREATIVE WOMAN }

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BLONDEAN YOUNG: THE JOURNEY Blondean Young is an actress, singer, writer, director, teacher, acting coach, and activist who was born and raised in Syracuse, NY. She discovered her passion for the arts at a young age, and she always knew she was destined to do amazing and creative things. This led her to pursue a degree at Syracuse University, where she received her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Theater, and headed for New York City to pursue a career in acting.

on and off for a few years and stayed in a few group homes along the way. Although she was faced with many battles it was when she auditioned for her first play in High School, she knew she was meant to be an actress

While in New York City, Blondean performed in many off Broadway shows, and was also featured in television shows such as Netflix’s “Orange is the New Black.” She eventually returned to her hometown of Syracuse where she launched her own web series entitled, “Black Girl Magic,” and she also has several other writing projects in the works. But even though she has been successful in her current endeavors, the journey to this point has not been an easy one. As a child, she originally dreamed of being a lawyer because she felt that there were so many injustices taking place in the world that she felt inclined to change. This started when she lost her mother to breast cancer at a young age, and she could not quite understand why this had to happen. From that moment on, she had to learn very quickly how to care for herself. She battled homelessness

and singer. She had never acted before, but it just felt right. She stood on the stage reciting her lines and after the audition she stood in silence. She did not get the role in fact she bombed

her audition. This was one of the first lessons she learned about not giving up, even if you don’t get the leading role at first. She could have let that moment keep her from pursuing her dreams. Blondean didn’t let that detour her and she went on to play that same role she auditioned for later in life. But it was at that moment on that stage she knew acting was one of the many things she was called to do in life. She realized she could change the world through her art instead. She didn’t know where to start but, in her heart she knew it was her calling. Discovering this lead her to accomplish many things. One of the biggest accomplishments Blondean has achieved in this pursuit is settling more firmly into her identity. Growing up in a family full of Pastors and Ministers, she found it especially hard to be herself considering that she currently identifies as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. It has taken her many years to accept this part of her identity, and this has made it hard for her to feel supported by her family members. The journey has been long, but she is now highly active in the LGBTQIA+ community and is fully proud of calling herself a Queer woman. Blondean believes she would not be where she is today without coming to terms with this and deciding to love this this part of herself. To get to this point in her life, she has had to CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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{{ GETTING CREATIVECREATIVE WOMAN}} “As a child, she originally dreamed of being a lawyer because she felt that there were so many injustices taking place in the world that she felt inclined to change.”

From battling fear and anxiety that she felt was designed to keep her from achieving her dreams, to feeling her art was not good enough to share, to feeling she would lose family and friends because of being a queer woman, to being afraid that others’ opinions of her voice, or her weight, or her acting, or her writing would hinder her in her career, Blondean has had to struggle many years to overcome these fears; and she still battles them every day. But now she has strength enough to realize that her voice needs to be heard, her story

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needs to be told, and her face needs to be seen, and just by being herself she realized that she has to courage to keep going. Just by saying, “Yes,” to the universe and to her art, it has freed her from the shackles of her perceived limitations and has allowed her to share what she has learned throughout her life with others that may need to hear the same. A lot of people believe you must choose one thing and focus all your energy on that thing in order to be successful.

Blondean is proof enough that if you use all your gifts you will be successful in them all. With her life message, she wants little brown girls all over the world to see themselves in her and think, “Hey, I can be on TV. I can sing. I can write. I can teach.” She is a promoter of self care and mental health and believes that once you have cared for yourself, it allows you to do anything you put your mind to, that if you lead with love and acceptance, it would indeed make the world a better place.

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FINANCIALLY SPEAKING {{ LOCAL BUSINESS MATTERS} }

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FINANCIALLY SPEAKING SPEAKING } {{ FINANCIALLY

WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT FROM YOUR BANK? BY SUSAN C. DIPROJETTO, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT – BUSINESS BANKING SALES MANAGER

If you are a business owner, you are likely trying to navigate this new and hopefully, temporary landscape. Many businesses have been closed since March and, for security reasons, your Bank may be only accessible by phone, online, drive thru or appointment. Regardless, most small business customers have a group of trusted advisors to guide them: their attorney, CPA and banker. Even while limited, these three advisors should play important roles in your business’ financial recovery. Many are doing things on instinct today, due to these challenging and unprecedented times. You had employees that you had to lay-off. You are trying to figure out when you can open and what you need to do to bring your employees back; timing is everything. It is also about whether your employees are willing or able to return to work. With schools closed, many have had to remain home to take care of their children and provide home schooling. There are so many hurdles that none of us have ever dealt with before. We are in unchartered waters. Whether you are a small business owner or a consumer, you should expect to have your bank on your side. Your banker, as a partner, is one to look to for advice and counsel. Over the past 3 months, statistics from across the banking industry have shown that the outreach from customers unable to pay their obligations has been staggering. Banks have recognized the need: car loans, personal loans, mortgages, credit card payments, business loans, etc., have been deferred for many bank customers. The needs are basic: how can you pay your bills with no revenue? The lights need to be kept on, and more importantly, the needs of your family and loved ones have to be met.

I am sure many have heard of the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program. This program— effective through June 30th, or as long as funds are available—is designed to provide small businesses with funding to re-hire employees who were laid off when their employer was unable to operate. There were 2 phases of the program due to need and high response; Phase 1 ran out of money quickly, so a second round was opened shortly after. Billions of dollars have been provided to small businesses to enable them to rehire their employees--even if they were not yet able to open their doors. The program gave business owners hope that they could remain viable, pay their employees and their bills. The program was well intended; however, I don’t think anyone could have foreseen the extended time of this pandemic or that the re-opening guidance would be as restrictive as it is. Since the inception of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the SBA has released additional, adjusted guidance on how the loan proceeds can be spent and has extended the time that it can be used. This will go a long way in helping businesses as they either re-open or await their time to do so. It was during the initial roll-out of the PPP program, when business owners were in a panic, that relationships and clear lines of communication with your banker rose in importance. The general message was to apply ASAP or run the risk of the program running out of money. Nationally, it was reported that it was the community bankers that were the “best” administrators of this plan. I could attest to that; my colleagues and I heard from our customers as well as many non-customers. So why did we hear from other bank’s customers? What they told us: they did not have a

relationship with their banker and did not know who to call. Or, they tried to reach their bank, only to be put on a call back list that in many cases never occurred. We were happy to step up to the plate, not only to help our customers, but other business owners within our community. To date, CNB has helped over 3,700 local businesses. We strive to continue to provide consistent service to all of those we helped during this crisis; we look to expand our relationships and continue to support the various needs of these new customers as we move beyond this pandemic. So, the question is, what should you expect from your bank—in the good times and the not-so-good times? You should know who to call at your Bank. A direct line. 1-800 numbers and on-line banking services are necessary for the day to day “regular” issues, but there is nothing like being able to really talk with someone that knows you and your business. Every situation is different, being able to talk with your banker anytime is what you should expect. If you do not have someone that you can call, I would suggest that you reach out to your local Branch Manager and make an introduction. As a business customer, you should expect to hear from your relationship manager at least once a year. Even in normal times, your situation can change from day to day, month to month or year to year. Your Bank should provide you with education and advice, and you should want to work with a bank and a banker who has your best interest at heart. When you talk through your situation, you should expect to be offered some options, so you can make the best decision for you. The scope should also include CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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for you. The scope should also include solutions beyond the immediate need, with a focus on your future. This is my experience as a local banker associated with a community bank: we have a vested interest in our family, which is the community that we serve. We take pride in putting local money back 192

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into our market area. Whether you are a business owner with 300 employees, a sole proprietor, or a consumer, we are here to help guide you in your financial journey. We are 130 + years in the making and have built our programs to lead with Service. If you do not feel like you are getting what you need from your bankâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;if the expectations that I

have referenced have not been met-please reach out to me or any one of my colleagues. We would love to have the opportunity to prove our difference.

Who we are

keeps us focused on what you need most.

What does it mean to be a local, independent, community bank? It means that our focus is on our customers and communities, and that our commitment is to remain flexible, nimble, and responsive in times of need. At Canandaigua National Bank & Trust, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to provide financial education and advice when you want it, along with care and compassion when you need it. And, as always, we continue to bring you the services and solutions to meet your needs now and for the future. Today, and every day, CNB is investing in you, your business, and our community.

ÂŽ

CNBank.com | (585) 394-4260

| Member FDIC

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PET CBD CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE BY KELLY BREUER

As many of you know that have been following me personally, or on the Rochester Woman Online social media pages, last month I lost my beloved 14 year old fur baby Sassy. Sassy lived up to her name from the very beginning, and made herself an unseperable and irreplacable part of our family. She has been through it all with us. Four other fur family members. Multiple moves. The ups and downs. And, well let’s just say even doggy jail a few times. (ok maybe more then a few). She was our high energy escape artist. This didnt change until she turned about 12. As she got older we noticed her slowing down, not being able to move around alot or jump up on furntiture or climb stairs very easily. Of course, this became very worrisome for us as she was our sweet old lady of the house. So, at that time I becaame aware of CBD products and began using them for myself. I started using a CBD syrup for sleep. It was amazing for calming down my brain and allowing me to get a restful night sleep. It truly was life changing for me. Then I began

using a CBD salve for my lower back pain and hip pain. It helped almost instantly. So, when I heard that there was product for my pets, I figured why not atleast try it and see what happens. We started out with the Pet Oil. Well, it truly was a miracle. Not only did it help her with two days start moving around better, she was jumping up

on the couch, going up and down the stairs, eating better, and even her inflammation in her paws was almost gone. I just honestly couldn’t beleive it. It completely improved her quality of life and to this day I will swear that it really gave her another two years of life with us. We started for the first few months of giving her 1 dropped full of 250mg oil one time a day. Then as we noticed what a great affect it had

on her, and let’s be honest she was 75 pounds of chunk, so we figured 2 droppers a day would probably work even better, and it did. So the past 4 months I had been giving her the droppers and also the Holistapet joint and mobility treats every day and the combination seems to work great together. So nearing the end, we knew it was only going to be a matter of days that we had with her. I didn’t want her to be in pain or discomfort until we could get her to the vets, so I called the team at All Access CBD for some guidance. They said, give her the pet tincture (600mg which is the strongest the make) and see if that helps her any. I wish I could have taken video of the results. I gave her two full syringes, because we knew that it wouldn’t hurt her to have more then the recommended dosage at this point. Instantly you could see on her face and in her eyes that she relaxed and seemed content. I started crying because this truly made all the different in her end of life care. While I am so sad that Sassy is no CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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{ ALL ACCESS }

“We started out with the Pet Oil. Well, it truly was a miracle. Not only did it help her with two stairs, eating better, and even her inflamm

longer with us, I know that CBD products gave us the extra time with her, and in the end gave her a peaceful time that I don’t think we would have had otherwise. Now, on to my big guy Sarge. He is the most nervous, axious boy you could ever meet. We rescued him at just five and a half weeks old, and as the runt of the little. I am sure both of these things attribute to his anxiousness. Now the issue with him is that most pet CBD is made with chicken ingredients which he is highly allergic to. He also doen’t like the droppers. He will freak out when he even hears it. I decided to start giving Sarge the Holistapet anxiety treats that I found at All Access. He loved them! He would take them and calm right down, not bark at everything moving by and seemed to destress him. I had some of the Pet Oil out one day and noticed if I said, “do you want a treat” and let him come up to it by himself, and not me trying to shove it in his mouth, he loved it and literally would start drooling to get it. I realized it was also because All Access makes their pet oils with MCT and fish oil so it wasn’t making him sick. Win, win. I haven’t started our new puppy on any of the products yet, but I am definitely going to as it is a great addition to any pets healthy daily routine. 196

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{ ALL ACCESS }

o days start moving around better, she was jumping up on the couch, going up and down the mation in her paws was almost gone.”

Some added information on the All Access Pet Oils: Their CBD PET tinctures are available in three strengths (150mg, 300mg & 600mg) to help you easily help your furry friends get the dosage they need. INGREDIENTS: Omega 3 Fish Oil Organic MCT Oil Organically Grown Full Spectrum Hemp Oil Grown, harvested, produced, and tested in the USA 30ml bottle Please Refrigerate After Opening. RECOMMENDED DOSAGE FOR YOUR PET 150mg: Under 25lbs - 2.5mg (.5ml) 150mg: Over 25lbs - 5mg (1ml) 300mg: Under 50lbs - 5mg (.5ml) 300mg: Over 50lbs - 10mg (1ml) 600mg: Under 50lbs - 10mg (.5ml) 600mg: Over 50lbs - 20mg (1ml) Why fish oil? Fish oil contains EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids that help arthritis, and also has some anticancer effects, says Nancy Scanlan, DVM, CVA, MSFP, and executive director of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Foundation. Fish oil can also improve your dog’s memory. You can visit All Access CBD online at www.allaccesscbd.com or in person at 1991 Empire Blvd, Webster NY 14580. Tell them RWO sent you for special discounted pricing!

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WELCOME ZOEY TO THE FAMILY BY KELLY BREUER

So this month not only did our family lose one of our fur family members, but we also gained a new addition thank you to the Animal Care Sanctuary in Smithfield, PA.

I packed up my daughter and her friend and we drove a little over two hours into Pennsylvania to the 132 acre sanctuary. What we saw when we got there will be forever engrained

I have had the pleasure of working with ACS for about 8 or 9 months now. I became aware of this incredible organization from social media, and reached out to them to work with Rochester Woman Online. I knew from the first time meeting Ellen Feldman and their amazing team at one of our Expo’s that this rescue organization was like no other, and I wanted to do anything I could to help them. By the way, they are one of the oldest NO KILL shelters in the country and are over half a decade old. This spoke volumes to me. As I got to know Ellen better over our correspondance, I knew that I wanted to visit the sanctuary and see for myself everything they were doing to help so many dogs and cats from all over the country, and now the world. So, finally on June 27th,

cat sanctuary which houses hundreds of fur friends from babies to older adults. Some have been in residence with ACS for over 15 years and are part of the family. The interactions, and the care given by the team and the volunteers was so heartwarming. As I went live on social media, I just honestly couldn’t believe all of the amazing work they were doing and all the pet lives they were saving. I also realized how proud everyone was to be working there. To me that just spoke volumes and I wanted to do more to help. T h a t d a y, w e did leave with a very special kitty named Vibe. She immediately latched on to my daughter and her girlfriend and well, we just c o u l d n’t l e a v e without her. She picked us. Well, she picked Ally and Torrie anyway.

in my mind. We began with a tour of the enormous

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{ THE ANIMAL CARE CORNER { ANIMAL CARE CORNER } } “The first 3 days were amazing. Zoey was super sweet and relaxed and made herself right at home. ”

I began talking with Ellen about a new transport of pups coming in from the South the following week. I said, boy I would love to come back and be able to go live when this happens as I think this would be incredible for my audience to see. Ellen showed me some papers with some of the rescues coming in and that is when we came across Zoey (then named Maria) and her sister and brother. There were also a couple other dogs that caught my attention, but I wasn’t sure about adding to the family again so soon, and I knew that if we did ever bring home a new addition I wanted it to be a female. I took some photos with my camera of some of the transport, then went back outside for a tour of the kennels and to meet some of tenants. This included one very cute 3-legged friend that immediately stole our hearts. Of course, my daughter was begging for us to bring home one of the pups right then. We drove home that day, with the kitten in tow, and my daughter talking non stop of how much she wanted a puppy. The next day I called Ellen and said I wanted to come back when the transport came in and help promote the new adoptable dogs. I 204

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also told her I wanted to check out Macie and Maria, the puppy sisters from the south. On July 3rd, we made our second trip to ACS. This time it was my daughter, her friend Lauren and myself. The

they would like us, or if I was even ready to bring in another puppy to the family. Well, in comes Zoey and her sister and jumps right into Torrie’s lap and let’s just say it was love at first sight and we knew she was meant for us. There was absolutely no question in my mind that it was meant to be. That day we took the two sisters back to their new homes in Rochester NY. One for us, one for the Lefave family. The trip home they slept and were very sweet and relaxed. I will admit I was worried about introducing our new family member to her big brother as he was a rescue himself and is well lets say a little quirky. So, I figured we would just go slow and let them both adjust to their new surroundings.

day before, my girlfriend Colleen said she wanted to adopt one of the girls and asked if I could bring her home with me. I tried not to get to excited because I am a firm believer that it has to be the right fit, and the dog chooses you. We had no idea what these two puppies would be like, if

The first 3 days were amazing. Zoey was super sweet and relaxed and made herself right at home. No hesitation at all. We immediately were in love. And low and behold so was her big brother Sarge. He immediately wanted her out of the cage and was kissing her, and showing her the ropes. Not one

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{ THE CARE CORNER {ANIMAL SHIFT+CONTROL } } } { ANIMAL CARE CORNER “I just honestly cannot say enough about this incredible sanctuary and the amazing people there.”

sign of aggression at all. I was beyond happy! Now fast forward almost 2 weeks later and they are literally inseperable. Wel, and she has become a little spit fire now too. But, you can tell she is so happy and fits in just perfectly with our crazy family. She knows she has found her forever home with us and we are so beyond blessed to have her. She has helped fill the void our Sassy left and has sparked a whole new life into Sarge. I will be forever grateful to the ACS for this opportunity. So, we now have Zoey (and her sister who is now named Shadow) that we have found out through some research with ACS that they are Boxer/Lab mixes, otherwise known as Boxadors. Plus, they were born on Feb. 9 (my birthday)...So if that wasn’t a sign I don’t know what is. The girls are from the bayou of Lousiana where many of the dogs that ACS recieves come from. They had some upper respiratory infections from the stress and move which was expected and was treated and disappeared in 2 days.

All the ACS pets are adopted with all up to date shots, spayed or neutered, micro chiped, etc. The ACS has its own veterinary clinic right on site and an amazing veterinary technician I

(thankfully). I just honestly cannot say enough about this incredible sanctuary and the amazing people there. I can’t wait to go back in a few weeks and show everyone more. They literally help thousands of animals a year and this year, already because of Covid they have adopted out more cats and dogs then ever before. They will be finishing the brand new facility in September which will allow them to service and help so many more animals. We will be coming back for their Grand Opening celebration, but if you are interested in sponsoring or donating to help keep this sanctuary going for 50 more years, please visit their website at https://www. animalcaresanctuary.org/

have come to know, Jill Elston. They spay and neuter an enormous amount of dogs and cats per year, and just got in a transport from Korea from a dog meat farm that got shut down CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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A DOG NAMED KARMA BY DENISE “KARMA” CLIFFORD

It’s funny how they say, some things are just meant to be. Like old friendships that never die, a perfect fit for a dress, or coming across a post about a dog named Karma. As a kid I had the pleasure of belonging to a dog who I can not deny may be this dog, reincarnated. I’ve never met a dog like Dutchess from my childhood in all my years. Up until now. No dogs even came close. She was solid, and her personality makes your memory believe she was as big as a grizzly bear. She wasn’t mean or aggressive, yet loyal and kept the farm free and clear of any woodchucks for miles. She wasn’t my dog, she was my step dads. So she acquired me. Not even sure of my small framed self and eagerness to make her my friend. She wasn’t used to kids. She was known for owning the back of an old Chevy pickup truck, and could scale the side to jump in if need be as it picked up speed down the road. She usually was in it before the keys even got the ignition, but those tiny instances where she wasn’t right there, and heard it fire up her large muscled body could be seen chasing down my dad’s green truck to jump inside as he would be nearing the 20 MPH mark. Loyal, to a tee. We once witnessed her running to catch up as a massive Mack truck was barreling down toward us in the opposite direction. I stared at my dad from the passenger seat, thinking he would make the Mack truck just disappear, but sometimes in life situations just play out that cannot be stopped. 210

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The exact moment our dog went to cross the road and make her leap, was the exact moment the truck made contact with her body. It didn’t end the way you or I or even my dad would have thought. The Mack truck screeched to a halt, our truck stopped and for a moment we didn’t move. We thought the worst as tears were already in my eyes, and I was angry at the truck driver. My memory may be a little off, as in my minds eye now she jumped up into the truck as the super hero dog she was, yet

I know that isn’t exactly how it happened. As she had a large wound we helped to heal, but nothing else major happened. This dog truly was one of a kind. Like I said, She wasn’t my dog, she was my dads. But as time went on and a man has to go to work and leave a dog behind, lonely little gals will make friends with a dog. One that is loyal and trusting and a super hero. I spent a lot of time on my bike as a kid. To get anywhere I needed to. We lived 7

miles away from anything. Sometimes I would just ride my bike down the road to play with other country kids. Other times I’d pack a back pack and ride my bike to wherever it took me. It didn’t matter if I told Dutchess to stay home or not. She was too loyal to watch me leave. Sure she would sit there and pretend she was staying, and every time I would glance back she would be there watching. Ears perked up sitting in the front yard, watching me leave. “Stay home Dutchess” I would shout behind me, and as I would round the last bend where I would be out of sight, I would feel relieved that she had listened. Until another mile down the road, and out of the thick bushes or weeds she would appear. Running along side me, as I pedal to my destination unknown. Lucky for me at times, she didn’t listen. These were times before invisible fencing, and in the country dogs just ran free. Many a time a dog would see me on my bike and think I was it’s next snack. I’m not sure how many dog attacks she saved me from, but I know it would have been many. Once she didn’t even make herself known to me, until a huge farm dog was almost on me as I pedaled so fast my chain popped off. She leaped out of the ditch on the other side of the road and took this beast down. She was ferocious, yet only when she wanted to protect her own. That dog ran home, tail between its legs, as Dutchess stood there all the while as I fixed my chain. She ran beside me the rest of the day. Stay home dutchess , meant watch me ride out of sight and then run as fast as you can to catch me.

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KARMA SPEAKS }} {{ SHIFT+CONTROL “It’s funny how they say, some things are just meant to be. Like old friendships that never die, a perfect fit for a dress, or coming across a post about a dog named Karma.”

I spent many days in the woods with her by my side, protecting me from whatever lurked out there . We spent hours turning logs and planks while she would listen for her cue to watch them. And any unsuspecting critters underneath would be hers for the taking. She loved that game. She didn’t go for training, but knew what it was she was meant to do.

she would lay by the tractor as we loaded it into the barn. She barked at the migrant workers who had to walk to and from the orchard on the hill. She let them know they were safe on the road, yet ½ an inch in the

There were times she would come home with a woodchuck almost as big as her. Her ears shredded and cuts on her face. But she was proud, head held high and would bring you home her prize. We tracked mud and muck into the house together after exploring the swamp. I shared sandwiches with her and spent lazy summer days laying in a pile of hay and her as my pillow gazing up at the clouds. Asking her if she saw this one or that one. I’m sure she did. She was the best listener. She once walked miles with us as my mom had no vehicle at the time and needed cigarettes. She decided we would be walking all the way to sodus point to stay. Of course I told Duchess to stay home, but again she didn’t listen. She walked the ten miles with us. She would follow along as we baled hay, and 212

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yard and they could end up as her lunch. They all must have known, as they would cross the road going by our house to remain on the other side. She would watch them, until they were past out property. She was the best Dog, and not a day nor dog has

gone by that I didn’t compare her to. So three weeks ago I read a post by an acquaintance on FB. A girl was going to kill her dog, and this friend was trying to help save her. I saw the post and began to read the comments. I told her I’d go get the dog, and I would help find her a home. I’ll spare the details of her former homes he was in, but when I went to get the dog named Karma, she wrapped her arms around me, and I was immediately hers. She’s loyal, and sweet and built like a Mack truck. Her personality makes you think she’s as big as a grizzly bear. As a child “Stay home Dutchess”. Meant that somewhere along the path, my loyal protective companion would show up, just when I needed her to. After the whole time running alongside me, just out of view. It’s as if I’ve been on the longest bike ride, and she showed up, out of the weeds. This time as a dog named Karma.

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NEIGHBORHOOD CHEF BY BETIEA BOWENS

“Unleash the Promise of Prosperity Over Your Life!”

currently be purchased on our website. www.neighborhoodchefny.com

be purchased on Amazon. The second book in the series will be released in 2021.

It still blows my mind how things are derived from a single thought; a single vision. My childhood aspirations were to become a successful actress. All throughout my childhood I role-played and used my imagination to create the magical worlds I’d envision. I started writing poetry in the third grade and in the following year, in 4th grade I wrote a descriptive short story and discovered that I was pretty good at painting a picture with my words. Through my high school years I starred in, wrote and directed several play productions. I knew I wanted to become an actress, it was the only thing that seemed effortless and fulfilling. Maybe because it was easy for me, the youngest child to let my imagination run wild.

My endeavors don’t stop there. Before opening our catering business, I taught myself how to do graphic arts. It was a desire I have always had, once I quit my job in October 2016 I started making T-Shirts where I developed my graphic

Everything about my life is about living in and operating in my divine purpose. My purpose has always been to build God’s kingdom through artistic avenues. My passion is to be an example of what it means to live purposely in God’s promises. I believe that there is a crafted plan specifically for us and when we have uncovered the plan for our lives it will bring us not only great revelation but unshakable confidence when we walk the path of life.

I’m a graduate of Howard University who majored in Film with a minor in Acting. I have always loved the arts. It is by no surprise that I currently own and operate a food catering business Neighborhood Chef, LLC with my husband. I love to create savory dishes boasting full and unique flavors that truly touch the soul. Culinary is an art form that snuck up on me. I didn’t realize I had a skill for it until much later in life. However, taking a look into the various forms of art, it all makes sense. We are artists when it comes to food creation and plating. We have put a lot of hard work into launching a line of sauces and seasonings. Our sauces can 214

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arts skills. I began creating flyers, business cards, logos and obituaries. This skill is where I bring in day to day income. The name of my design company is called CandyPOP Designz and can be found on Facebook by searching @ yourdesignchick. I released my first children’s book “The Amazing Adventures of Mila-Bean, Lima-Bean and Butterfly: Open for Business” in May of 2018 which can

On July 29th -31st I will be hosting a webinar conference entitled God’s Fierce Plan™ . The idea came to me sometime last year to create an interactive course that would help individuals learn and recognize the original plan of God and how to actively and authentically follow it. This is the beginning of myself walking into new territory and walking fearlessly in the authority of God. Knowing that regardless of uncharted path, He is constantly chopping down branches, clearing the debri and guiding my feet with his light! I am so thankful to be able to teach my three daughters about purpose, destiny, opportunity, legacy and entrepreneurship from a kingdom mindset. These were things that I picked up on from the actions of my parents. They didn’t always teach with words but they demonstrated

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{ WOMAN WITH HEART } “I love to create savory dishes boasting full and unique flavors that truly touch the soul. Culinary is an art form that snuck up on me.”

with lifestyle. They afforded my siblings and I the opportunities to experience life beyond what they could as children and young adults. Being able to obtain a Master’s Degree as my highest level of formal education is a testament to their sacrifice. My mission in life is to equip my children with the tools to get 100 steps further than my husband and I are now, at an even earlier age. Staying engaged in community events, networking, church fellowship and constantly seeking knowledge to get 216

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my family and community further in life, spirituality, happiness, success and peace. My prayer is to leave this world completely empty withholding nothing, no skill, no talent, no desire, no impact, no lesson...everything that God planted in me to give, I will spend my lifetime giving and living in complete fulfillment while doing it. If I am able to help you in any way reach your goals you can contact me by email betieabowens@ gmail.com and I’d love to schedule a consulting session with you so that you can fulfill God’s Fierce Plan™ for your

life. It’s ok that you may be unsure or in doubt of your abilities but it’s imperative that you connect with the support, encouragement and guidance that you need to live your purposeful life.

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ARE YOU AN IMPOSTER? BY DR YASELLYN DIAZ-VEGA I PHOTOS BY MARISA NICODEMUS

Are you an Imposter? How to overcome it? Have you ever felt like you are not good enough? Like you are a fraud? I am not talking about your cooking or feeling like a parenting failure or a total mess when folding the bed sheets. I am talking about at work, education, in your abilities and capacities. Perhaps feeling incompetent to secure that new job or to move forward or to make that decision about starting a new business or contributing with a great idea at work. Many of us have felt like this. Do you attribute your success to luck, timing, or maybe a computer error? Do you agonize over the smallest flaws in your work? Are you crushed even over constructive criticism, seeing it as evidence of your ineptness? When you succeed, do you secretly feel like you fooled people? Do you worry that at some point they will find out the truth about you being not as intelligent, competent, or – you fill in the blank? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are amongst the people that it doesn’t matter how much recognition you get, how many degrees you’ve earned or how high you have risen, you still have doubts of yourself and your abilities, deep down you are convinced that you’re are an impostor, fake and a fraud. This is considered The Imposter Syndrome or Phenomenon. This is so common, that it is estimated that about 70% of people at some point of their lives may feel this way. Originally, it was thought to be something that affected only women, but now we know that may 218

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affect men as well. Given these statistics, I wanted to explore more about it. POSSIBLE CAUSES: Early messages about achievement, success and failure and how we get over-recognized or perhaps not recognized at all or not-

an imposter syndrome, especially if you are a woman and if you add a layer of a being from a minority ethnic group or from a non-popular culture in your community. But I would like to invite you to reflect on this. It is not the time to consider yourself a victim and decide to throw the towel. Failure to recognize and work overcome this syndrome may have detrimental implications in your career, health and wellbeing such as depression, anxiety and low self-confidence to mention some possible effects. Let’s clarify that Conquering the Imposter syndrome is not about trying to be the reverse; about being arrogant, full of yourself when you do not possess the tools and abilities yet. It is not about pretending to be someone you are not. Neither is about trying to fool others into thinking that you are better than what you truly are. Bertrand Russell once said “that the whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, but wiser people are so full of doubts”. Many of us know people that are very confident when they have the least reasons to be. This could turn us off in becoming as confident as we should be.

enough from our parents, relatives, teachers and others could have shaped our thoughts about not deserving such recognitions and praises. It is clear that external influences may have had great influence in our decision to adopt

More recently Valerie Young Ed. D.– who has a doctorate in education wrote about it in her book The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women- Why capable people suffer from Impostor Syndrome and How to Thrive in Spite of It. In this book she shares how she found out about it and what she decided to do about it. Dr. Emee Vida Estacio, psychologist has written about this topic as well in her book, “Imposter

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I may not be perfect nor great at this yet, but I will continue to learn and adapt as I go.â&#x20AC;?

{ LADIOLOGY } }} SHIFT+CONTROL { { SHE HUSTLES TALKS “Imposter Syndrome Remedy: How to Improve your self worth, feel confident, and stop feeling like a fraud.”

Syndrome Remedy: How to Improve your self worth, feel confident, and stop feeling like a fraud”. In their research Dr. Valerie and Dr. Emee and has been able to identify five types of people that suffer from Imposter Syndrome or Phenomenon. Types of Imposters Personalities that may paralyze you: First THE PERFECTIONIST. The perfectionist has very high expectations and feel like failure if they don’t achieve it exactly how they wanted it or by the time they envision it. The constant thoughts of failure linger in their heads and will make it difficult to move forward into another project. They place their goals and expectations so ridiculously high, that realistically it is difficult to make. In the event the do get to fulfill the goal, it may attribute it to luck because they feel like they didn’t deserve it since they “knew” it was going to be difficult to achieve. If you are this type, tell yourself: “I may not be perfect nor great at this yet, but I will continue to learn and adapt as I go”. The second type is THE EXPERT. They feel like they need to know every detail before they start a project before making a decision to the point that it paralyzes them into making a decision. They get stock in finding the details. People with this Impostor personality love to have special certifications and trainings. The feel like they need to know all the answers, and often they already have information but they feel like if they cannot predict the future and the outcome, they should not move forward. They are very analytical, and this could be very limiting. If you are this type, tell yourself this “I don’t know everything but I will use what I know to learn more as I go”. 222

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The third type is THE NATURAL GENIUS, who want everything to appear like everything came easy. They feel that if they have to work very hard at something, then they are not good enough. They do not want to appear vulnerable and ask for help. They fear that if they reach for help, people will think that they are not intelligent or that they don’t really deserve the position or job. Being vulnerable is something they don’t feel comfortable with. If you are this type, tell yourself this “I may not know everything”. “Yes, I might fail, if I do, I could learn from the experience”.

The fifth type of Impostor Personality is THE SUPERMAN OR SUPERWOMEN. This people work very hard, don’t sit still, always doing something to proof that they are not imposters to the point they may get burn out. The more they work, the more effort they put, they feel is the only way to deserve some credit. If you are this type tell yourself: I work hard, I need to stay laser focus to get the most of my job done in a timely manner, get the best results and get rewarded”. Which kind of Imposter are you? What is your Imposter Personality? Now I will mention seven ideas on how to Improve and Conquer your Imposter Syndrome… 1. Acknowledge your personality or personalities (remember we may operate with more than one of these discussed above). Be aware of the thoughts, are they true, logical, constructive? Guide those thoughts as needed to overcome them.

The fourth type is the SOLOIST. They feel that they must do everything on their own. If have to ask for help feels like fraud or failure. They feel that asking for help is a sign of weakness or that people may think that they are not smart enough. They want to figure it out all on their own, but they often feel stuck by not overcoming the feeling. If you are this type, tell yourself this “There is nothing wrong about asking for help, having a team can help me finish my job faster and more efficiently”

2. Talk to mentors, consult with a person that has more experience or knowledge to get support from. It could be someone you admire and look up to. People that will help you get uplifted and encouraged. They shouldn’t talk down to you, should help inspire you. 3. Recognize your expertise and Dare to do something with it. Offer to teach someone else or help someone else, even when you do not think you know all there is about the topic, this will prompt you to improve your skills and abilities. 4. Remember your accomplishments. Accept compliments- just say “thank you”. Don’t forget to also give compliments. Be grateful and share your successes- I have to

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{{{ LADIOLOGY {{ SHE HUSTLES LADIOLOGY RECOVERX }}} }} SHE HUSTLES TALKS TALKS “It is clear that external influences may have had great influence in our decision to adopt an imposter syndrome, especially if you are a woman and if you add a layer of a being from a minority ethnic group or from a non-popular culture in your community.”

admit that this exercise gave me so much confidence. Let’s do it! Grab a pencil. Write down you top 10 list of times, event, where you felt like a champion or conqueror or super leader? What are some achievements you feel very proud of? 5. Allow yourself to fail - Sometimes we fail, it will happen, embrace it and keep moving forward. Look for example at the sports teams, they may have many loses 224

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along the way, they use the experiences acquired during those times to improve their game strategies. 6. Control self- talk. If you wouldn’t say that to your best friend or mother, do not tell yourself that. Be gentle with yourself. 7. Reward yourself -Set up goals and rewards. Did you answered all emails and did all todays workload? Then, set a reward, perhaps a nourishing treat, or get a manicure. If you

do not accomplish that goal, don’t get the reward or refrain from doing something you usually do and you love, such as the manicure, pedicure, or that nice caffeinated drink. Specially, reward yourself when you take action away from your default Imposter syndrome personality traits to break into a new you. Until the next one…Be Confident and be Awesome!

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THERMAPPAREL BY JULIA KRACKE

Photography and cooling vests, an unlikely pair, yet, they are two passions that I love most. Why? Because helping people is what I do best. After 20+ years of working in the photography industry with my husband, Kurtis Kracke, we decided to pursue another adventure— that’s when ThermApparel was born. ThermApparel makes and sells a lightweight, comfortable and intuitively designed cooling vest for anyone who struggles with temperature regulation. Our goal is to help people live happier and healthier lives. Before we dive into just how cool this vest is, let’s take a look back at my first passion—photography. I have known I wanted to be a photographer since I was 8 years old. It’s all I ever really wanted to do. I graduated from the Kansas City Art Institute with a BFA in photography and SUNY Buffalo with an MFA in photography, worked for George Eastman Museum and ran a full-service photography studio with my husband. We had the honor and privilege of sharing in the joy of so many families by photographing over 300 weddings, their families and kids. Many of our couples have become lifelong friends and for that we are forever grateful. We photographed weddings, kids, families, & commercial photography for 14 years straight without much of a break. On average we worked 12-14 hours a day 6 days a week and it really took a toll on my body. During that time I endured years of infertility, a BRCA2 diagnosis, a double mastectomy, a complete surgical hysterectomy and a pinched nerve in my neck.

I spent the last year at our studio in horrific pain that radiated from my neck all the way down to my fingers on my right side. With my right side being my shooting arm, it was getting harder and harder to hold onto the camera for 8-12 hours at a time. Fast forward through a whole lot of excruciating pain, tests, shots, and physical therapy; I was eventually diagnosed with a pinched nerve and bone spur on my C7. After our final wedding season ended, I had surgery on my neck. When I woke up

in the recovery room the nurse asked me if I needed anything, I asked for a glass of water, she handed me a white Styrofoam cup. I grabbed it with my right hand and started crying because for the first time in a year I could feel all of my fingers. That’s the moment I knew that it was time for a new adventure and that my body didn’t deserve any future complications. While this was not an easy decision, I knew it was the right choice and that something bigger was in store for us. Besides, we were

lucky to have the success that we did—so there’s no better way than to end on a high note! THE NEXT CHAPTER… Kurtis decided he wanted to get his graduate degree in industrial design from Rochester Institute of Technology and that began our next adventure—we had no idea the fun that was in store! While there he started working with fellow classmate Brad Dunn on an adaptive technology project. Kurtis & Brad put their design talents to work, after observing that those living with Multiple Sclerosis were constrained in hot weather due to their heat sensitivity. After researching other cooling products on the market, none of them met the critical criteria for people with heat sensitivity caused from health conditions – concealable, lightweight, and comfortable. After more than 200 customer discovery interviews, and more than 50 prototypes, the ThermApparel UnderCool cooling vest was born. To date, the UnderCool Cooling Vest has made life-changing differences for people in all 50 states and 16 countries. UnderCool features: • Adjustable straps and a Velcro front for the best fit and comfort • Wicking fabrics and built-in mesh panels to keep you dry and comfortable • Cooling pack pockets along back • Cooling relief for up to 1 – 3 hours* depending on cooling pack • 7 sizes from XXS – XXL • 60-day money back guaranteed I joined Kurtis and Brad in their second year and my role quickly evolved as I began working in the business full time. I am the Chief Communications Officer (CCO) and one of my favorite parts about my job is talking to customers on a daily CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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{ LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT } “While the UnderCool was originally designed for those living with diseases like MS, we quickly realized that the vest is actually amazing for anyone that has any kind of heat sensitivity due to medical, environmental or professional reasons.”

and hearing their (amazing) stories! We receive emails and calls all of the time from our happy customers, as they share how much the cooling vest has changed their life! Hearing things like, It allowed me to got to my grandson’s high school graduation, I was able to hike, Now I can exercise, and Thank you for giving me my life back are the successes that keep us going every day! Since there are only 3 of us in the company, my role also consists of wearing many hats— graphic design, customer service, order fulfillment, problem solving, and being an integral part of the management team. Kurtis, Brad and I work very well with each other. We all have different strengths that we bring to the table that keep moving ThermApparel forward.

to medical, environmental or professional reasons. We have sold vests to medical professionals to wear under their PPE, plumbers, electricians, race car drivers,

Prior to the UnderCool, when I exercised, I overheated to the point that I could feel the heat coming off of me in waves, especially around my neck. Just a 30-minute brisk walk on the treadmill and I would be a hot sweaty mess, but also exhausted and the fatigue would last into the next day. However, after wearing the UnderCool on the treadmill I have quickly discovered that I can now walk for 60-90 minutes without overheating and the fatigue is gone! As a result, I can now increase my productivity and exercise more.

To work with your spouse you have to have a strong work ethic, strong relationship and respect for them and for yourself, I feel very lucky to be working side-by-side with my husband and after 20+ years of working together I can say it works 90% of the time, ha! The power of cooling relief: While the UnderCool was originally designed for those living with diseases like MS, we quickly realized that the vest is actually amazing for anyone that has any kind of heat sensitivity due 232

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Because of my BRCA2 diagnosis and following surgeries I entered what they call surgical menopause. I woke up from that surgery on fire, I felt like a volcano and as a result I have a hard time regulating my body temperature. I love using my UnderCool for exercise, gardening and well, let’s talk woman to woman here… who has been impacted by the “H word?” Yes, I’m talking about those nasty and debilitating hot flashes! If you haven’t experienced them yet, oh, just hold on tight because you will.

gardeners, actors and actresses. Fun fact, currently our cooling vest is being used to keep actors and actresses on the TV show Station 19 cool under their turnout gear.

In the garden it is a life saver. I can get all of the yard work done on hot summer days. It’s very comfortable to wear, think yoga pants comfortable, and it doesn’t get in my way. It provides a nice consistent cooling, so I don’t overheat.

{ LOCAL } {{{ SHE HUSTLES TALKS SHIFT+CONTROL {{ BUSINESS LADIOLOGY RECOVERX }} } }} SHE HUSTLES SPOTLIGHT TALKS “I love using my UnderCool for exercise, gardening and well, let’s talk woman to woman here…who has been impacted by the “H word?”

What I love most is our cooling packs that fit perfectly into our vest design. They are very unique, they are not ice, and work better than ice and ice vests. Why is that and why is it important? • When your body is hot your blood vessels open up to allow heat to be released. • Ice and Gel Packs cause blood vessels to constrict, preventing cooled blood from reaching your core. Ice is wonderful for cooling down a specific part of your body or bringing down swelling, but it doesn’t cool your entire body. • ThermApparel PCM Cooling Packs cool the blood without constricting your blood vessels. As your blood flows past the PCM Cooling Packs it cools the blood which is then circulated throughout the whole body. They start melting and refreezing at 70°F so they can quickly recharge in ice water in 20 minutes. I can put the vest with the cooling packs inserted in the fridge and it will recharge in 60 min or 45 min in the freezer. They don’t condensate so they 234

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don’t get you wet or burn your skin like ice. Because of this, I can take my UnderCool out of the fridge at 10pm, leave it on my nightstand and at 2 or 3am when I have a hot flash, I grab it, lay it across me and go right back to sleep. It’s still solid, still cold and immediately starts pulling the heat from my core allowing my hot flash to cool down and let me sleep! That, my friends, is irreplaceable relief! The design of the UnderCool is very low profile. It weighs less than 2 lbs. (yes, with the cooling packs) and I can wear it under a t-shirt, dress shirt or even my business suit and no one knows I have it on. It’s been a life saver during high stress presentations. I never lose my cool. When I’m not working, you’ll find me photographing for fun, swimming, gardening, reading and spoiling my nephews and niece. As a proud Kansan, my midwestern roots will always be planted deep, however, I love all that Rochester has to offer, including the beauty of the four seasons! I never realized fall could be so incredibly beautiful.

One last thing, ladies, this vest is a game changer and it’s a brand I feel confident standing behind! Most of all, I love helping people return to their first passions and live life to the fullest! Want to learn more or just grab coffee and talk about life? I’d love to chat! Shoot me an email at: julia@ thermapparel.com

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ZANAE MILTON- WALKER BY ZANAE MILTON-WALKER

I am Zanae Milton-Walker, and I am currently pursuing my life-long dream and career to professionally model, produce music and publish creative writings. I am genuinely, thankful for Central NY Woman Online Magazine and the opportunity to pursue my goals and inspire our local community.

heart grow fonder”. Knowing that quote through life was inspiring to my career and ideas. It seemed as though this was the time to make changes. I chose to take that time and learned to value my well-being and furthermore others. This allowed me to acknowledge that I can pursue my dreams now. As my ambition in understanding the

This recent journey has sprouted from the immediate impact of Covid19. While isolation and safety became the national priority. I began to feel this intense reality that “Change is here”. I grew to see that covid-19 influenced everyone’s life and was changing how we lived. I was not sure about many things in our daily life, but like many others I had to take an insightful look inside my life.

Although the circumstances have placed pressure on society and how it was impacting our lives; I found time alone and separation was on all our sides. “Distance makes the

I am 24 years young and am living and have grown in the diverse city of Syracuse. I experienced many different situations. These circumstances have allowed me to social network and appreciate the people I’ve encountered within life. My experiences taught me to understand the importance of my actions, behavior and words. Continually, I’ve come to appreciate what I can do to make a personal difference. This is how I began to consciously seek opportunities as windows to utilize and make changes grow. I began to act on my dream of inspiration by modeling, music, and writing all on my very own. These are the interests and strengths I have and have come to recognize and appreciate to optimize myself for the better.

Meanwhile, during this time I began to seek resolution and brainstorm! How to make myself better, even under such strange circumstances. I questioned, how can I make an impact with myself and what was important in my life during this historical time. This was the motive that allowed me to begin to achieve my dreams as I reflected on my own life. I desired to find as many opportunities to inspire others to value our own life and others. I quickly began to understand through this crisis that self-worth was very important during a world pandemic. The feeling that this was affecting all human life was humbling and motivating.

project I’d create. I am inspired. I choose to remain and remember my goals hold meaningfulness. Which is important in life.

circumstances a natural instinctual platform to pursue positivity was revealed. I believed I would do that. I began to visualize and see the potential in my work to create positive messages while optimizing my strengths, interests and abilities. Suddenly, I knew my very own dreams that I believed in were the motivating passion in every

For the first time in my life without a very clear idea of where my decisions for my career all I placed my positive energy into would lead me, I knew being good to myself and others would have a significant impact. As it will allow me to adventure and explore more comfortably in knowing my actions are being done righteously. Within furthering my own ideas I made the decision to live and really express myself in my own career. The ability to self-reflect was very important to moving forward with my goals. I learned that that reflection and understanding is critical to being able to realize that we are not alone in life, and CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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{ INTRODUCING } “I questioned, how can I make an impact with myself and what was important in my life during this historical time. This was the motive that allowed me to begin to achieve my dreams as I reflected on my own life.”

that no one man’s life is more important than the others. I believe we as people could understand that together each of us are students to life and can accept learning and existing together can create beautiful things. Through my newly formed career with my blessings my life dreams continue to a line themselves, as they ought to be. I find much gratitude in that alone. Imagination unsure of how or when it would become a reality. `Within the time I’ve come to see opportunities as a tool to express my insight in a variety of ways. For me achieving my goals have truly come from believing in myself. I 238

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know, now since I have begun to climb for more in my life. I’ve learned that no longer can the option of questioning myself and what I do can exist. I have worked on each of my dreams. I am growing with patience, discipline, and consistency. I’ve surprised myself at times. I’ve become just so delicately and formlessly myself. I am thankful for the obstacles and achievements that I now can see through eye’s of inspiration. I’ve learned that each life existing is here leading us to the journey to our very own success. Taking leadership in your own aspiration is doing the best for yourself and others. I am thankful to my morals and sound

principals. I know that as I work hard daily, earning my worth and becoming what I create in my modeling, music, and writing. I’ll be and form just as I was made to - In conclusion Advice of Inspiration for our Local community a Humanitarian message is… Praise your life with respect to the natural laws of living, I found believing in myself is the most beneficial characteristic to my existence and others. I strongly desire and trust I can accomplish this through my creative pieces to make others feel worthy in themselves too. Throughout many experiences my natural intuition becomes the conductor of my personal success and achievements.

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KEVI’S TREATS BY TAMMY REESE I PHOTOS BY JAZMYN BOWENS

“When life throws you lemons, you make lemon cookies.” This is a saying that Shankevia Dean proudly lives by. Not only because she makes some of the best lemon cookies her customers have ever tasted, but because this is also a true testament to her life. Shankevia has gone through life learning and adopting to make the best out of any situation. This has helped her become the business woman she is today through hard work and sacrifice. Although anyone in Syracuse with a sweet tooth has probably heard of Kevi’s Treats, not everyone knows the woman behind the brand. That is largely because Shankevia Dean is a very busy person. The amount of time Shankevia devotes to building her business Kevi’s Treats qualifies it as a full time job. However Shankevia has built up her business in addition to working as a full time school social worker, and single mother. Whenever Shankevia gets some time to herself she spends it creating new recipes and thinking about how she can serve others while better serving her customers. Shankevia is widely recognized for her customer service. Long before COVID-19, Kevi’s Treats was offering curbside deliveries. That has been a key to the success of the company, meeting customers where they are, and making the treats accessible to all. You can pre order treats online and have them delivered to your house, or you can catch Kevi’s Treats announcements via social media and secure your spot on the delivery list for no extra charge. Traveling around the city and going from home to home to 240

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deliver baked goods is not burdensome or problematic to Shankevia because of her roots here in the Syracuse community. She is well known and established in our community and has developed lasting relationships through her work with the youth of Syracuse.

students with special needs and behavior issues. Working with these children, she has learned very quickly that sometimes they need other outlets to help them cope and refocus their energy on something positive and productive. Cooking for Shankevia has always been a form of release or escape. It is a way to get rid of today’s worries and prepare for tomorrow’s risings. She has found it to be a therapeutic release for her since she was a young child. A way for her to come back to self. With finding this to be a self-soothing method, she decided to introduce cooking and baking to her students. Shankevia began to find ways to combine both of her passions by providing therapeutic cooking classes for students. Through different employment opportunities with local non profit organizations, Shankevia has been able to incorporate her gift for cooking and her gift for teaching in a way that has benefited the youth of Syracuse for years. Shankevia found that taking the time to teach youth how to cook and getting them involved in the kitchen helped improve their behaviors and attitudes by contributing to a sense of self worth. This inspired Shankevia to want to do more to connect with the youth.

Although Shankevia has garnered great success with Kevi’s Treats, her true passion is youth development. Shankevia has a master’s in social work from Syracuse University and is currently employed as a social worker for OCM- BOCES working directly with

In 2016 Kevi’s Treats began offering kid’s cooking classes to the community of Syracuse. At first Shankevia was not sure if kids would be interested, or if their parents would sign them up, but the classes turned out to be a major success. Due to the overwhelming response, Shankevia was finding it hard to accommodate all of the kids that were interested in taking the classes. Soon

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“Shankevia is widely recognized for her customer service. Long before COVID-19, Kevi’s Treats was offering curbside deliveries. That has been a key to the success of the company, meeting customers where they are, and making the treats accessible to all.”

{{ PLATTER CHATTER } SHIFT+CONTROL “When life throws you lemons, you make lemon cookies.”

Shankevia had to offer cooking classes monthly to keep up with the demand. It was important to Shankevia to keep her classes sizes small so that they could be intimate learning experiences for the children involved, so instead of increasing class sizes Shankevia began offering two classes a month. The classes draw diverse groups of youth, boys and girls spanning in ages from 5 to 16. These classes gave Kevi’s 244

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Treats the opportunity to appeal to younger generations. In each class students are able to meet a business woman, learn her trade while also learning about kitchen safety, teamwork, and other life skills. As Kevi’s Treats continues to grow, so do Shankevia’s goals. Shankevia hopes to eventually acquire a retail location so that she can spend more time in the kitchen

preparing and creating new items. She also is seeking a location where she can have a full teaching kitchen so that she can bring her cooking classes to a new level. The goal is to continue to build up a loyal customer base, while finding new ways to expose youth to cooking and gaining independent skills.

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EMPATH BY JENNAFER PASCARELLA

For the longest time, I always asked myself. “Why am I always to blame?” “Why has he always chosen drugs and alcohol over me?” “What’s wrong with me?” “Why am I not good enough.” “Why me?” and I’ve been miserable. Have you ever felt that way? Like no matter what you do it’s not enough? I was the scapegoat for many because it was what I was raised seeing my Mother go through. I have a theory that empaths are “born” out of emotionally insensitive and closed off parents during childhood. We are created to be this way. For years I’ve allowed people, my own Father; and many others make me feel guilty of my reaction to their disrespect as if I did something wrong. In reality, it was their own demons. It was their own thoughts that had nothing to do with me, but being the emotional human I am and feeling the emotion in everyone; I felt the need to fix everything. If I fixed everything and helped everyone I wouldn’t feel sick anymore. Always trying to make everyone else happy. Turns out it doesn’t work that way. The older I get the more clear my vision becomes. I know what it’s like to be let down, to feel unloved, to feel unwanted, forgotten about, and pushed to the side. So I told myself I would treat others how I want to be treated. Treat them with respect, love, EMPATHY, and support: treat them like they matter. Turns out not everyone knows how to show empathy. I’ve always thought loving too much was my weakness until my friend pointed

out that it is my SUPERPOWER. It didn’t make sense at first, but oh it does now. I’ve just been giving my love to all the wrong people. Focusing all my good energy on people who are not ready to be saved or to connect. Just because someone is family doesn’t mean they aren’t toxic. It’s a real eye-opener that I need to set boundaries. I need to take responsibility for only what is mine and walk away from the rest. I am caring, loving, honest, humble, and I would do anything I could to help someone that needs it without expecting anything in return. That’s the difference between me and most. 98% of People expect a lot in return and won’t do anything for their neighbors unless they are guaranteed something in return. That’s part of the reason why the world is the way it is. Everyone is so stuck on trying to be better than the person in front of them. The only person you should try being better than is the person you were yesterday. The person in the mirror. Make better decisions. Every day is a new day. Wake up and decide to be happy, wake up, and kick today’s butt. Life is too short to wake up worried or upset every day. So for myself and for my kids, I’ve decided to wake up every day with a clear mind and a humble heart. Never be afraid to love with all you have. Just learn to ground, shield, protect, and recharge. What goes around comes around. Plant the seeds of kindness, water them and watch them grow.

I did just that. I built my page “Empowering Eachother” one year ago. July 10, 2019, it started off as a place where my girlfriends and I could be ourselves, post silly memes, share each other’s small business ventures, healthy recipes, even just vent or ask for advice. This last spring I did a #RomanceRonaGIFT. With quarantine and being the empath that I am, I felt the heaviness in the world. Also, being the fixer that I am I thought, How could I change that?! Well by giving away cute little gifts at random. Leaving them on people’s doorstep or showing up to their work because they were nominated. It was a huge success. I ended up pairing up with Brutal by Design in which Included custom t-shirts in some of my gift baskets. Ian Larochelle and his wife Kara are the owners of Brutal by Design. Ian is a local entrepreneur, artist, positive influence in his community, fantastic father, and friend. His motto being “ We don’t conform, We create” touches my empathic soul. I’ll continue to create beauty wherever I go whether it’s writing, photography, in others, or just manifesting and creating the life I love. If I can do it, so can you. I believe in you. P u r e r o m a n c e . c o m / jennaferpascarella319647 https://www.facebook.com/groups/156 8257256640891/?ref=share Instagram: @empowering_eachother3

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“I’ll continue to create beauty wherever I go whether it’s writing, photography, in others, or just manifesting and creating the life I love. If I can do it, so can you. I believe in you.”

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4 STEPS TO TAKING DECISIVE ACTION BY AHLIA KITWANA

Attempting to do something is the first step. What I mean by this is to take the first step in the actual “Doing-BeingBecoming Cycle” ---- I came across this in Designing Your Life: How To Build A Well-Lived, Joyful Life (a really great & actionable read). I sometimes take my time with the decisive action part of the doing. I spend a good amount of time on planning and thinking.

approach Decisive Action. ALIGNMENT WITH GOALS PRIORITIES & VALUES How does the idea or opportunity align with goals, priorities and values? If it is not in alignment with those priorities how can you bring them into alignment? If you cannot find alignment with the idea, is it really

This is a good thing in that it helps me to organize and sort things out mentally, which makes taking action a lot easier. The thing is I occasionally go too far in the planning and thinking whereby it becomes one of my best procrastination crutches. When we are scared of something --an opportunity, a career move, a new relationship, etc. We naturally come up with ways to really engage and take it on. Avoidance can take on many forms, but in general it is not the healthiest behavior to adopt. Some of the avoidance tactics that I have come across are, Control, Escape, Despondency and Blame. Once you have gotten past avoiding what may be difficult, challenging and yet all around so much better for you in the long run, here is how to

IS IT FEASIBLE OR DOABLE RIGHT NOW? Does this fit into how your life is working right now? Do you have the time or energy? How bad do you want it? Are you willing to give something up to pursue this? If it is an opportunity that won’t take place for six months, would you do it tomorrow? How much work, effort and energy will it take to bring your idea to fruition? Do you need support or to collaborate with others? TAKE THE FIRST STEP What is the first thing you need to do to make this work? Do it, take the first step regardless of how uncomfortable it is. And stay uncomfortable, that is where the growth happens!

worth pursuing at this time? If there is no alignment and possibly a misalignment, consider letting it go. If yes, the idea or opportunity does align with your goals, priorities & values or it can be brought into alignment, proceed. This is worth pursuing and investing your time and energy.

COMMIT Commitment is the final step. Commit to seeing this through! Looking at the sequence below, once you do decide to go for it, to really take decisive action, commit to it. Commit. Every. Single. Day. Every day, wake up and ask yourself, “What can I do today to move my goals forward, who can I talk to or connect with?”. Move forward with conviction and purpose and slay.

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{ LITTLE BLACK BUDDHA { SHIFT+CONTROL } } “When we are scared of something --- an opportunity, a career move, a new relationship, etc. We naturally come up with ways to really engage and take it on.”

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MODEL CITIZENS: PLOGGING WITH SUE BAUER BY KRISTEN BAUER GROSS

“Oh there’s another can!” My mom reaches her grabber tool towards the empty soda can and plucks it from the side of the road and places it into a bag she’s carrying. She tells me that on her walk earlier today she found six dollars laying in the grass, just blowing in the wind. My mom is Sue Bauer and she is 72 years young. One of her very favorite activities is plogging. Plogging, in case you have not heard of it, is a Swedish eco-craze that from our perspective hasn’t really caught on in upstate NY yet. Plogging is a word that blends “picking up” with “jogging”. Although, when mom and I are plogging, we engage in more of a brisk walk. We carry two bags, one for trash and one for recyclables. Besides a lot of strange looks from people driving by in their vehicle, plogging has taught me many life lessons.

too late to try out new adventures! My first agent Ann Marie Stonecypher took note of this positioning of models and actors and within her talent agency she started a division called “Model Citizens”. The purpose of this select group of people was volunteerism and helping non-profits. Sadly my friend, long time mentor and agent Ann Marie Stonecypher passed away in 2018. I was thinking recently about her “Model Citizens” and how her mission can continue with each and every one of us

But why am I telling you about my mom and about plogging? As a model coach who writes a monthly column for “Rochester Woman” I’d like to start dedicating some articles to highlight “Model Citizens”; meaning women in my model coaching and ACTION programs who are also doing good things in the world. In American culture, models and actors are viewed as public figures. With that limelight, models and talent can use their platform to showcase the change they’d like to see in the world and be that change. When your daughter is a model coach and lifelong commercial model and talent, you are bound to get mixed up into modeling. My mom walked as a professional model in her first fashion show at age 70. It is never 254

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acting as model citizens. I am often frustrated when models, singers, actors, politicians, influencers or other public figures are not acting with integrity and sometimes reading positive uplifting stories in the media is akin to finding a purple unicorn. Wait…… is there even any other color of unicorn???!!! Plogging Life Lessons: 1.) Only 10% of Americans get at least 30 minutes of exercise on 5 or more days a week – this is a sad statistic. Making it a priority to get outside into the fresh air,

sunshine, and getting movement is such a boost to our health and immune systems. Plogging doubles in benefits because it gives each walk/jog a small accomplishment of cleaning our environment yet also the added health benefits. Besides, who doesn’t like “running” into a little free money here and there? 2.) Many recyclables in the state of New York have a 5 cent deposit. Could you use some extra cash? Have something you are saving for? A vacation? New wardrobe? Charity goal? Appreciate cleaning up your community or being environmental? Start a plogging money jar. My mom kept track of all monies she collected from recyclables plus found money (ie: find a penny pick it up and all day you’ll have good luck) for an 18 month period once and it totaled $3,000.00 which she used towards replacing her roof. All from a daily hourlong brisk walk! 3.) There is trash everywhere – Wherever you walk start to really take in the surroundings. Notice the birds, the bees, the breeze and the debris… See what I did there? I noticed that the more closely I paid attention to my surroundings, it became apparent that trash is literally everywhere and this makes me so sad and also fairly angry. My mom encourages myself and others, to really look at their community and endeavor to notice what is going on and take pride in your own community. Trash can be very detrimental to animals and nature additionally. 4.) We live in a “throw away” society, but we each get to choose how to respond. It

{ COACHING WITH KRISTIN } “Plogging, in case you have not heard of it, is a Swedish eco-craze that from our perspective hasn’t really caught on in upstate NY yet.”

seems a bygone era where possessions were cherished, cared for, reused, fixed when broken or given away when no longer needed. Lately I find myself focusing on buying less and only purchasing things I love and will use. In conclusion, I nominated my mother, Sue Bauer, as an outstanding “Model Citizen” for her passion to clean up everywhere she goes and set an example for others. We notice many people seem to feel “above” picking up trash and debris but if everyone did just a little it would make light work for all. 256

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As she vigorously plogs, through the outskirts of the Rochester suburbs, she gains all of these benefits which include improved health, cleaning the environment, emotional well being with time in nature, and a few extra dollars in her pocket. All of these which don’t cost a single person anything beyond their time and energy. What are you doing to become the next model citizen in your community, family or region? Can you identify a model citizen in your life whom you aspire to? In an effort to detox your body of junk

food and manufactured foods and your mind of negative thoughts and beliefs, I encourage you to join my “Courage to Dream” 30 Day Detox Challenge. In August we’ll dive deep into detoxing for 30 days. Whether you’d finally like to kick your sugar addiction, drop the quarantine 15, or re-wire your life and thoughts with new habits I encourage you to find the courage to join me on this journey! Follow me @KristinBauerGross on Instagram or Facebook for details or visit my website www.KristinB.com

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YOUR AUGUST HOROSCOPE BY ANGELA MCGHEE

ANGELA McGHEE INTERNATIONAL TV PSYCHIC MEDIUM AUTHOR TEACHER & PSYCHIC ASTROLOGIST ARIES for AUGUST 2020 A very active month where you will have to plan and prepare to show your dynamism and flare in the workplace. During the first week Venus in Gemini shine upon a meeting. There could also be time for a summer fling or renewed love. There is a bit of a shake up in monetary terms where your social life is concerned which will hit your wallet. But it is not with regrets but a welcomed change. Save some for the family invitations which will flow this month. TAURUS for AUGUST 2020 There is an innermost desire for great changes, almost the beginning of an awakening for you Taurus. You’re reexamining every aspect of your being. Deciding what you really want out of life. Those with children will pour in new revitalized energy into helping them achieve their dreams. Take a look in the mirror Taurus , stop looking at your flaws and see your real worth and beauty. The time has come for you to begin to shine. Let go of whatever has held you back. Shine on. GEMINI for AUGUST 2020 You are full of verve this month Gemini accompanied by your usual lot of nervous energy. There are a lot of projects to be completed at this time. Don’t doubt yourself as you get there in the end by your sheer willpower. Venus moves into Cancer of the 8th

instilling a great sense of well being and benefit to your financial situation. As for friendships and colleagues your upbeat heartedness can prove too much for some people. There may be a clash of personalities so be prepared. CANCER for AUGUST 2020 Sometimes Cancer you are too modest and shy. People may see that as a weakness. Areas in some of your close relationships need to be examined as your need to speak your mind. Your tactfulness will win the situation over, so don’t worry about your approach. The stale air needs to be cleared. Time for some loving tenderness this month. Make sure your policies are in check. Beware of minor mishaps and little accidents ,as your clumsy potential may lead to checking your insurance policies out. LEO for AUGUST 2020 There has never been a moment when to surround yourself with positive people as within this month. They will help to ignite that fire burning energy. As you have tended to lack luster recently. There may be a clearance of old associates who have been around for a timely purpose, they have taught you many lessons, good and bad. Your love of summer sunshine will bring the light effort needed. Don’t let children take advantage of your generous warm and regal nature. Show them who is ‘King’. A time to reflect, shine and get back to your roots. VIRGO for AUGUST 2020

Mars is channeling your creative power. Anything that expresses your natural talents will get noticed Whether it’s your flair with redesigning your homestead or a works project, ideas will flow. For those who are single ,a friendship has the opportunity to turn into a relationship. Uranus is in Taurus and could mean a major change in your ideal of life’s expectations. Go with the flow this month and allow the new energy to build naturally. The unexpected happenings this month are for greater purpose, as you may only see the initial picture of things. Trust in the universe and the alignment of stars. LIBRA for AUGUST 2020 Lots of love surrounds Libra with the Sun in Leo from the 6th to 22nd. Time to use your fair minded influence on situations where you thought things were unresolvable. A breakthrough is achievable with little or no effort. it’s a time when you can sell ‘ice to the eskimos’. You have that delicacy of that velvet touch of diplomacy. Many new friends and associates are to be gained. Keep your chilled persona in check at the latter part of the month as you may be too quick to judge someone who wants to spoil your recently acquired bliss. Don’t rise to the occasion. SCORPIO for AUGUST 2020 You won’t be dwelling on recent disappointments for too long this month as new long awaited doors are opening to you and your talents. You will take time to reflect and your opportunities will help you move on. Don’t be too rash or hard on yourself. Reach for the stars. You will have every chance to CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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{ SPIRITUAL WOMAN } “AQUARIUS for AUGUST 2020, A welcomed increase in your finances leads to an appreciative time. Those close to you show even more affection. Love is in the air.”

o display your passion for things. And the right people will notice your efforts. Stay cool in a close relationship as it will hold their fascination and love for you. He may not be Mr. Perfect but his heart and values are in the right place. Children may appear to seek more of your attention this month as insecurities line your heart. Putting your house into order now, will help you to achieve more of an income. SAGITTARIUS for AUGUST 2020 Prepare for a professional comeback this month. Work colleagues bend to meet your every need. Family and loved ones benefit from the amount of effort you have packed into a project. Pacing yourself now will pay its dividends. Do not abuse your health or energy. Your family relationships are at a deeper level of understanding. There is a surprise celebration in store. Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto are in Capricorn and are securing your monetary situations. Remember to take time out for those important people close to you. Your spirituality exceeds your imagination and takes your thoughts elsewhere in gratitude. CAPRICORN for AUGUST 2020 This is a month where you will often have to find emotional balance. There will be some discord from those closest to you. There are times when you could easily be the loner that you fundamentally are and wish to seek solace in your own space. The discord to not last for long and balance restores itself. It’s about expressing 260

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love with delicacy, which is the key. You may be thinking of new work, even retraining or brushing up on skills from a previous occupation. You will receive the support to get things done. A time when legal papers may need to be dealt with. AQUARIUS for AUGUST 2020 A welcomed increase in your finances leads to an appreciative time. Those close to you show even more affection. Love is in the air. Work and stability is important to you. You now have the opportunity to build bridges with those who you thought you’d left behind. Your gentle and noble soul reignites when surrounded by the solace of nature. A Time to reflect on the past and move forward in a way that will be more beneficial to you, than others. Taking good care of yourself is important now. Taking stock of the people that really care for you is a blessing in gratitude. PISCES for AUGUST 2020 Like your aquatic counterpart. When faced with a dilemma you may want to swim the other way. There is a learning curve to be had, on how to handle what seems to be a brutal emotional blow. It is a situation you will just have to face. You will soon be seeing life through rose tinted glasses again, when the dust settles. Love and respect will be restored. A loving reunion is possible. Taking time with younger members of the family will be of importance.

News from abroad will have an impact on your daily life. and it’s time to keep a check on your bank balances as Mars in Aries affect your finances in a negative way. Slick thinking Pisces will soon swim in calm waters once again. International TV Psychic,Medium ,Author,Teacher & Psychic Astrologist Angela McGhee www.angelamcghee.com for all enquiries call +44 (0)1543 326 253

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DEANNA WIDMEYER BY DEANNA WIDMEYER I PHOTOS BY DANIEL EVERITT-LOCK

Deanna Widmeyer is a small town Canadian girl who followed her dreams to move to the big city of Toronto Ontario, but when she got there, her dreams changed. A graduate of Seneca College’s Acting for Camera and Voice Program in Toronto, Deanna teamed up with her fellow classmates to create more acting opportunities for herself and those around her. She first appeared in the independent short film ‘Stripped’ (2016) and later starred in the LGBTQ webseries ‘So That Happened’ (2017). While Deanna was creating these acting opportunities she was also honing her skills as a producer and leader in the film industry. She was learning the ins and outs of producing a film from start to finish. Over time she became less focused on shining in front of the camera and decided to work behind it. She directed her first short film ‘Committed’ in 2018 and she now works as a producer, director and assistant director on any indie film set she can step foot on. When she’s not producing independent stories, Deanna works for Pomegranate Platform Inc, a company she founded to help showcase the work of independent creatives and entrepreneurs. She cofounded the streaming site Fearless, which aims to tell diverse and impactful stories that Hollywood shys away from. “Originally she and her business partner Matkai Burmaster were thinking of ways to showcase their own films, and thought about what they would want in a streaming site for independent content. They started Fearless in 2017 with maybe 30 titles, and 10 subscribers,

3 years later, they have over 1000 films and shows from independent creators, and are growing every day. Fearless is all about showcasing diversity and the stories that our marginalized groups need to tell. We believe that LGBTQ, BIPOC folks and women need to see themselves and their stories on screen, they need to be represented; Hollywood has failed to make it happen, so we stepped up to do the work.” Deanna also runs the film lover’s publication, Yeahflix. The site features a collection of reviews, news and interviews with actors, directors, musicians and more. “I wanted to create a space where independent filmmakers can gain exposure for their content, and we can talk about the films and shows that are making a difference in the world”. - Deanna Widmeyer Yeahflix interview articles have showcased some amazing talent over the years, Deanna is honored to be able to lift up the voices of these artists, even if it’s just through a friendly interview. Yeahflix has been her baby for three years now, and it’s been so rewarding for her to create a brand and a platform that has drawn a dedicated team of writers to share content they care about. Yeahflix talks with musicians looking for their big break, actors who are building their careers one credit at a time, and various creators who have sparked change with their work.”

She plans to be thoroughly involved in the film industry for many years to come and is still finding her true calling as a filmmaker. When she graduated from her acting program at Seneca she remembers asking her instructors what kind of acting opportunities she should focus on, and which opportunities she should accept to hone specific skills. They gave her an honest answer that she still thinks about a lot today. They told Deanna to stay open to every opportunity. Every chance to stretch her acting muscles. It turns out Deanna stretched so far that she was able to develop an appreciation for all aspects of filmmaking, on and off camera. Deanna never would’ve been so open to the direction her career path or even her art form was taking if it weren’t for that advice. Deanna thinks everyone can apply that advice to their journey. Another key ingredient to success is finding other people who are working as hard as you, and love it as much as you do. Team up with them to make your dreams happen. Especially in the arts, we are all looking for those amazing collaborations, those moments when the resources of many come together to create.” Follow Deanna on social media to keep up with her entrepreneurial journey: Instagram and Twitter: @deannawidmeyer Find her interviews and film reviews on yeahflix.com.

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AEWOYN HOLMES BY SHANNON HOLMES I PHOTOS BY

Meet 9-year-old Aeowyn Sayer Holmes. Aeowyn is the daughter of Mark and Shannon Holmes and is no stranger to the entertainment industry. Aeowyn began modeling and competing in pageants at the age of 6 months old. Since her first experience on the stage, she was hooked. Winning her first Overall title before the age of 2, and first state title at 11 months. Aeowyn shot her first commercial at 3, and her first movie at 5. She began dancing before she was 2. With her mom being a dance instructor, and pageant coach, she has grown up on the stage. She was the USA National Miss NY Jr Princess at the age of 4 and went on to win the 2016 USA National Jr. Princess, and spent the year speaking about Anti Bullying through their platform the CROWN Cares, and promoting her own charity which she created, Books 4 Bedtime. She collects new and used books to be distributed to Hospitals, United Way, adopting agencies, and other organizations that then distribute them to children. Aeowyn has worked with Michelle Dibernardo Productions for commercial and print work. She was the face of their anti-bullying campaign. Aeowyn loves reminding kids to be a “friend, not a bully.” 264

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Aeowyn has worked with director Martin Guigui in the upcoming movie” Drama, Drama”, onto working with director Johnny Whitaker in Preppers Grove where she plays Taylor McDaniels. She had the privilege to work with the Award-winning actress Margaret O’Brien. Holmes has had the privilege to work on set with Keara Graves, Ana Golja, Michelle DeFraites, Amelia DeMilo,

and lead actress roles. These films allow her to show a range of her acting skills as they are horror, a thriller, a family drama, and a musical. Aeowyn loves that she can become a different character on set, and enjoys working with new professional people in the industry. “ It’s fun she says!”

Cinta Laura, and Zonta Te’Ahnna Lynn.

This fall she will be busy. Aeowyn has walked for Multiple designers in NYFW since the age of 5. One of her favorites would be for ASHLEY Lauren. She also has a shoe named after her from the amazing Mr. Marc DeFang. Rocking the runway is something she truly enjoys as she loves the opportunity to promote these fabulous designers. Her little sister Teigan, 6 is now following in her footsteps. Both girls have walked in NYFW, and are signed on for the movie,” The Dollmaker.” This movie will be filmed later this fall. Aeowyn will be playing a lead and Teigan will be a supporting lead for her first feature film. Writer/ director Jill Camillo has created this thriller, which will get you thinking about what if’s. “ I’m excited to work on set with my little sister,” Aeowyn says.

Her schedule was delayed a bit due to COVID, but she can not wait to get back on set ASAP. She has signed on to film 4 movies in this next year for ACC films. These films are Toll House Hours, Tykarindom Saga, Snow, and the Dance. She will have supporting actress

Looking ahead to 2021. Aeowyn will be starring in “With Child”. Written by Jeff Kacmarynski, this international award-winning script has an amazing cast. Including Maria Olsen, Laura Ellen Wilson, Jessica Cherniak, Thom Michael Mulligan, David E. McMahon,

{HUSTLES SPECIAL FEATURE } { { SHE ENTREPRENHERS }} SHEHUSTLES ENTREPRENHERS

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“ I’m excited to work on set with my little sister.”

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{ FUTURE STAR } } { SHIFT+CONTROL “This straight-A student loves to act, sing, and dance. Aeowyn dreams to win an Academy Award one day, and also to be a pediatric surgeon.”

Cheryl Prater, Christian Vaccaro, Sheri Davis, Julie Anne Prescott, and Spencer Mabrey. This film has so many twists and turns in it. Aeowyn is really excited to be playing “Amber,” her character is very complex. Please visit Facebook for these fantastic films or http://www. IMDB.com. You can follow Aeowyn

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Sayer’s career here as well. Aeowyn Sayer - IMDb This straight-A student loves to act, sing, and dance. Aeowyn dreams to win an Academy Award one day, and also to be a pediatric surgeon. She would love to be in a film with Dove Cameron,

Zach Efron, Hugh Jackman, or Anne Hathaway. Until then she will keep auditioning, practicing, improving her skills as she continues to change the world one smile at a time. Look for her in November on the National stage again as she is your reigning USA National Miss East Coast Princess.

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LISA PELLEGRENE BY CNY WOMAN ONLINE

Media professional, Animal Welfare advocate Lisa Pellegrene Discusses her Book “Be Epic, Choose Love” Lisa Pellegrene is known for her work as a media professional across the board from journalism to TV and FILM, and through her work as both an author and publisher. She has written and published articles in major media sources such as the Chicago Tribune, and industry specific sources such as LA Weekly and Broadway World. She focuses on the inspiring stories which uplift and encourage, helping others to elevate their reach to do more of the work that they love using their gifts and talents, seeking to inspire the readers as well. She is also a long time animal advocate, and has been involved in animal rescue for many years, starting in Los Angeles. She has been vegan for eight years. Lisa Pellegrene’s work in TV/FILM ranges from production work, writing, talent on a former Travel Channel “Best Beaches” series and she is working on a television project which she developed entitled “Peace, Love, Unity Dance Troupe TV.” The production will feature various music artists, and lead to the development of a hip hop and ballet dance troupe. Her book, “Be Epic, Choose Love” may be found on Amazon, Barnes and Noble online, Waterstones in the UK, Apple Books and in various book stores on the shelf, such as Barnes and Noble in the ‘Personal Growth’ section. During a recent interview with Lisa, she read an excerpt from her book to

show an example of what one can find within her book “Be Epic, Choose Love.” “Love gets you through, it’s true, it’s the strongest of all. With love in your heart the storms come to pass. It makes you remember that love is what lasts. A broken heart can be a thing of the past, if you remember these things and know that love can endure. Choose love, and don’t ever keep score.” Continuing, “Love is a gift from above where you know you can do it, you truly can. You can stand with love just once more, and again and again after that, you continue to stand with love in your heart. You remember, it’s love that endures and happier days will reign once more, even better than ever before. You stand for what’s right, you know all that’s true, it’s love don’t you see. It’s present within you, it’s present within me. You’re a special person too that’s true and you are divinely loved through and through, born out of love which is radiating from deep within you, Be Epic, Choose Love.” Concluding the excerpt, “The love within you has a ripple effect, it starts within and it carries you through, and reaches all around you, it’s so true. And before you know it you exude love in all that you do. Others become inspired too and they will also remember to choose love too.”

finished.” Continuing, “This is why readers will see two versions, when I realized I had a book that could literally help heal hearts and encourage people, I quickly published the first version. I later added much more, which is now the extended version on Amazon and in the Barnes and Noble Nook. The Barnes and Noble hardcover version is the extended version. Pellegrene recommends the extended version as it is the full version of the book. Those interested in working with her for publicity for the arts, can reach her via her website at www.officiallisapellegrene. com. Her plans for this year include preparing an episode of “Peace, Love, Unity Dance Troupe TV,” working with additional inspiring clients as their publicist and / or publisher, and there is another book on the horizon, entitled, “Hammock Perspectives,” which is a series of short inspirational stories. She is on Twitter with a verified profile @lisapellegrene .

She discussed how she wrote and published her book, “Earlier last year, I simply started writing, and I kept putting the writing aside, and then would write more and more. I didn’t realize I had written a book until it was CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM BY TRACY SIMONE

The elephant in the room is that we, the United States, have been infiltrated by entities outside of our borders. This has taken place over several years and was planned by those who do not like our freedom, our systems, or our way of life. One only needs to go back through the executive orders and new laws of the last few administrations to see the specific details and understand how we, The People, have lost some of our rights. A very unfortunate thing is that many people do not realize it and if we are not careful, we will not have a country to worry about. The other unfortunate thing is that people on the inside have helped them and continue to do so. Let us not forget that there are some extremely wealthy people who are looking to usher in a New World Order (NWO). That is, one world government, one religion, one currency, and if they get their way, considerably less people on the planet. This has been decades in the making, and it has been well documented. In the meantime, we have cameras on most street corners, surveillance through our phones and televisions, and if they get their way, a brand new vaccine that will carry a chip that will enable tracking of our every move. Most of the other things that we are seeing are distractions so that we lose sight of the master plan. The globalists want to remove the individual identity of each country. This, my friends, is why we really have all this recent craziness. This, and not race, is why we see the 274

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mobs destroying any property that they think they can. Defund the police and move in their own forces? Take over parts of a city? Anarchy anyone?

stories because they are not allowed to be reported. Look up “Out of Shadows Official” on YouTube (if you can find it because it keeps getting taken down).

Through all the recent chaos, many people have missed the fact that the Federal Reserve is now part of the Treasury. They are also missing that the Deep State,

We have to remain mindful that while we have chaos and confusion (wear a mask, don’t wear one, stay 6 feet apart, go out and protest but don’t go to church, tear down a statue but not THAT one, etc.), we still have to keep an eye on the big picture. We still have families to raise and hopefully something to leave the next generation at some point. We still need to have food and supplies, a roof over our heads and safety. We are still citizens of the world and the whole world is in turmoil. We need to be the grown ups and do the right thing.

or Cabal, are catching Hell these days because many of them have been found to be part of a worldwide trafficking ring. Tens of thousands of children have been rescued and the indictments (sealed and unsealed) just keep coming. Many of our favorite celebrities, athletes, CEOs, politicians and world leaders are caught up in it and have found themselves in hot water. If we only watch the mainstream media, we miss most of these back

We must recognize that there is nothing new under the sun. Everything that is happening now has happened before. We need to educate ourselves on real history and not just that stuff that we were taught in school. The white knee on the black neck was a centuries old ritual brought to us by the secret societies (look it up). We need to realize that, of course, ALL lives matter. We need to be smart enough to distinguish the social/racial issues that we never really addressed from the organization called Black Lives Matter (BLM). Donations to them are sent to the party that allowed

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{ TRACY TALKS } â&#x20AC;&#x153;Either we open our eyes to everything that is going on or we, The Sheeple, will be led to places that we probably do not want to go.â&#x20AC;?

their own American cities to be attacked. Whether we are aware of it or not, the organization is funded by the same people who fund Antifa (the group that delivered the bricks and weapons across multiple countries and paid people to turn protests into destructive riots). By the way, their current flag is just a modern version of the one that they used in Nazi Germany. Look up the Brown 276

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Shirts and draw the parallels for yourself. So, we need to look both in the foreground and in the background for ourselves OR choose to rely solely on the powers that be for information and to push us closer to what they want. We can stand up for our rights to have real information, freedom of speech, no censorship, peace and the ability to defend ourselves OR

we can just wait and see what the New World Order will be like. Either we open our eyes to everything that is going on or we, The Sheeple, will be led to places that we probably do not want to go. We have had many challenges and we will have more for sure. How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.

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7 EASY WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR FINANCES THIS WEEK BY ANGELA VAHUE

It’s fun to daydream about a better financial future. But, unfortunately, too often people stay stuck in their dreams and don’t take action. Yet, as author Annie Dillard has observed, “How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.” In other words, if we don’t act now, we may never. Consider today the first day of the rest of your financial life. Here are seven actions to take, each one just a few minutes, to improve your finances this week. MONDAY: KNOW YOUR NUMBERS Download a budget app to keep track of your income and expenses. Next time you buy something, quickly tap the amount into the app. Do the same when you get paid. Soon it will feel as easy as texting. Estimated time for download and set up: 2 minutes TUESDAY: ADD ONE PERCENT Zip an email to Human Resources and ask to transfer one percent more from your income into your retirement account. While you’re at it, confirm that your company is matching your annual retirement contribution to the fullest extent allowed. Don’t have an HR rep? No problem. Take charge and set up an automatic bank transfer. Do the same with your savings account and strive to add another percent each quarter. You won’t miss this amount now, and you’ll be very happy to see it grow over time. Estimated time: 1-5 minutes WEDNESDAY: CHECK YOUR CREDIT SCORE Speaking of numbers to know, your credit score is the main factor that lenders use in establishing your credit worthiness. What many people don’t realize is that

you typically have more than one credit score. No matter. Just checking any of them now will help you get a handle on where you stand, and these days you can check one of your scores for free through your bank, credit card issuer or a free online service. Not happy with what you see? You can start improving your credit score with these tips. Estimated time: 5 minutes THURSDAY: ASK THE REAL QUESTION The real question may surprise you, but here it is: “Am I earning enough?” Fill out an online salary estimator, found on some job sites, to find out. The estimator will prompt you to enter where you live, years of experience and other relevant info. In return, it will share comparable salary ranges for your profile. Then, create a plan to negotiate to where you should be. Estimated time: 4 minutes. FRIDAY: END THE UNNECESSARY Did you travel abroad last year and add an international data plan to your phone bill? That was a good idea at the time, but did you remember to end it when you got home? What about subscription services like monthly streaming sites? Maybe you signed up for several sites, but really only watch one. Gym membership you’re not using? Prepared food delivery? Review all your recurring expenses and cancel any services that you no longer use.

opportunity to write out your dreams for the future. After the timer dings, put your list of goals somewhere where you’ll see it regularly, like in your wallet, on the fridge or on your dresser. The list will remind you of your long-term plans. Take a look, does your spending and saving habit align with your goals? And if you’re in a committed relationship, make a date to talk about your joint and individual financial goals. You’ll be glad that you did. Estimated time: 20 minutes (or less) SUNDAY: MAKE THE CALL This week, by taking a few quick and easy actions, you have already gained some clarity of your financial picture. Now reach out to your financial representative to talk about your long-term strategy. All you need to do is leave a message to get the ball rolling. Estimated time: 15 minutes Well done! Over the past week, using a little more than an hour of time, you have taken action to improve the course of your financial life. These seven small steps will create a big impact over the long term. Indeed, the better financial life of your future has already begun. Brought to you by The Guardian Network © 2019. The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America®, New York, NY”

Estimated time: 30 minutes SATURDAY: GET YOUR GOALS FRONT AND CENTER Saturday is your day, so take the time to think about your goals. Set a timer for 20 minutes and give yourself the CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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{ SOCIALLY CREATIVE }

SOCIAL MEDIA AWKWARD BY HANNAH COSTELLO

We all know how relevant having an online presence is in today’s technology forward world, but it doesn’t mean we don’t all experience some level of discomfort, selfdoubt, or awkwardness around it. In today’s world, it is imperative to be on at least 1-2 social media platforms if you want your business to thrive, maintain relevancy & gain new customers, increase your sales & stay connected. Creating a presence on Social Media is no longer optional which is why I have designed this column to empower small business owners & entrepreneurs to show up creatively, uniquely & authentically across their social media channels without feeling “Socially(Media) Awkward.” So, let’s dive into some beginner’s basics for establishing your business’s virtual voice. Begin by choosing platforms you are aware of and have seen others use like Facebook or Instagram (I promise you can adventure into TikTok & Snapchat later on). These staple platforms in the social media world that most people are on for personal and, or business purposes. When I say most, I mean that Instagram hit 1 billion users back in 2018...So it is a platform you want to add as a contender for marketing & advertising your business. In the first quarter of 2020, Facebook reported double that number with over 2.6 billion users. One of the first pieces of advice I give to my clients who are just starting with social media is this: Know who your target audience is, and more importantly, where they are. Each platform carries a different audience and purpose, so you don’t need to be on all of them all at once to be successful with your social media reach. That being said, knowing where your warm and cold market is, is a crucial piece when choosing a platform (or two). 280

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Think of your warm market as your friends, family, acquaintances: these are people you have met in person and have spent time with IRL (in real life). Think of your cold market as friends you have yet to meet: these are people who learn about you, your business & are attracted to your goods/services because you speak to them through your content. They have a curiosity and desire to follow you, cultivate a connection with, purchase your goods, invest in your services, or in whatever capacity that looks like for your industry. When you try to oversaturate your business on social media, more times than not, you will forget about the platform, not give it the proper care & attention it needs, or be able to maintain it. So trust me when I say, start with just 1 or 2 and do them well. Start where most people already are: Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, Pinterest, Twitter, and Youtube. A secondary tip I recommend to my clients is knowing what platforms are for social media marketing and which are for social networking. Linkedin is prime for connecting with others in your similar industry, connecting with your local community, posting job opportunities, announcing events, updating your credentials (think enhancing for professional life.) Pinterest is an up and coming platform for physical goods intended for driving more sales and traffic to your site by using visually appealing content (think fashion, beauty, retail, boutiques.) Youtube is the leading video sharing platform for podcasters, vloggers, educators, and more (think hacks, how to’s, tutorials.) Twitter is one of the most popular social media network platforms for news, current

events, and staying up to date on trends (think authors, celebrities, news channels, public figures.) The lesson to take away here is this: If it doesn’t feel right for your business, don’t do it. You know your business better than anyone else, and others can tell if you’re coming across as disingenuous or inauthentic just for the sake of gaining exposure and engagement. My third most important tip for feeling less awkward and uncomfortable on social media is knowing what your audience’s interests, hobbies, beliefs, values, and demographics are. After you have established a client avatar or your followers’ foundation, it is important to be aware of what new audiences, demographics you want to attract. Taking this next step will help bring in new ways for people to find & follow you, which will increase your engagement, exposure, and brand awareness to new people. Market research will be your best business companion when you are just starting. Survey your family and friends on which platforms they are on. Utilize authoritative and reliable sources to research which platforms are best for your industry. Research the demographics of a variety of social media users. Read blogs & articles. Most importantly, consider hiring a social media manager to help you navigate your social marketing needs, goals & objectives. To learn more about the Beginner’s Basics of social media, you can visit my website: www. creativesagency.org or send me an email with your questions: info@creativesagency.org You can find further tips, tricks & best practices for creating a strong, confident online presence by following me on social media, IG: creatives_social_ agency or FB: facebook.com/creativessocialagency

{ WELLNESS 360 }

ARTHRITIS BY BETH PARRY

Wellness 360 aims to support women’s health and wellness by providing educational and evidence-based exercise programs. One of our programs is designed to decrease joint pain. Let’s discuss some types of arthritis and the best ways to soothe achy joints in a natural way. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint disease caused by wear and tear on cartilage over time. Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis after the age of 55. Studies show that hormones and obesity play a significant role in these statistics. Nearly 27 million people are affected by osteoarthritis in the United States. Signs of osteoarthritis include: ● Morning joint stiffness ● Joint pain after rest ● Tender joints ● Limited range of motion There are certain risk factors in developing OA including, injuries, overuse, inflammatory disease, sex, genetics, and age. One of the biggest factors in developing OA is weight. Losing as little as 10-12 pounds can drastically improve your joint pain, especially in the hips and knees. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is different from osteoarthritis. It is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the synovial lining of the joints. Women are more likely to develop RA than men, 3:1 according to the Arthritis Foundation. This can be developed by an overactive immune system. Early signs of RA can be confused with other diagnoses. Early signs include: ● Foot pain ● Weakened grip ● Hand and wrist pain ● Range of motion limitations ● Numbness and tingling of the hands Treatments for both OA and RA include medications, modalities, nutritional adjustments, medical procedures, exercise, and physical therapy. 284

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What can you do to improve your quality of life? Exercise and self-care have been shown to significantly lessen the effects of joint pain and stiffness. Self-care management through mindfulness can help you find ways to reduce your stress levels and feel more in control of your health and wellness. Having knowledge and support can empower you to make healthy choices about your wellness. Along with stress reduction, exercise is one of the most important elements in combating joint pain. Contrary to popular belief, resting your joints can worsen the overall pain and stiffness. This can significantly decrease your quality of life by creating stiffness and postural imbalances. It is important to find a balanced exercise program that supports all aspects of healthy joints. Your exercise program should include low impact motion to increase the synovial fluid, which provides cushion for your joints. Flexibility exercises can improve your alignment and decrease the strain on your joints. Strengthening exercise can strengthen your muscles to support your joints. Balance exercises will improve your core strength and posture to decrease the gravitational pull on your joints. Physical therapy is a great way to start your exercise program safely and efficiently. Wellness 360 has developed classes designed and led by a physical therapist, which will guarantee that you are getting appropriate exercise and modifications. The key to exercising with joint pain is using joint-friendly exercises. Some tips and considerations for starting your exercise routine are: ● Start off slow. Be aware of your body and its signals. Stop immediately if you feel pain or discomfort. ● Keep your exercise low impact. Elliptical trainers, bicycle and water exercises are the best. ● Keep moving. Arthritis feels better with constant motions. Periods of long rest can aggravate your symptoms. This is why you

can have more soreness in the morning. Here are a few exercises that you can do, right from your home to improve your joint health. HIP ABDUCTION Leg lifts are an important leg exercise to improve stability, balance, and strength, reducing the impact on the knees. Hold onto a chair or wall for balance if needed. Lift your leg out to the side. Keep your toes pointing forward. Keep your torso upright and; avoid leaning. Repeat 3 sets of 10 reps on each leg. HIP EXTENSION Stand up tall and hold on if you need. Press your leg backward keeping your knee straight. Squeeze your glutes and hold for 3 seconds. Avoid arching your back. Complete this exercise 3 sets of 10 reps on each leg. BRIDGES To start, lie on your back with your knees bent (on your bed if the floor is not an option). Tighten your buttocks and abdominal muscles, then raise your buttocks 6 inches off the floor/bed. Lower yourself and repeat 3 sets of 10 reps. Wellness 360 + online classes can give you the evidence-based exercises you need to support your diagnosis. Our online classes are written and led by a physical therapist. You can enjoy all exercise programs for one low cost. There are programs for weight loss, joint health, Parkinson’s, low back pain, osteoporosis, balance, and mindfulness for stress reduction. Check out www.wellness360finess.com for more information.

{ CNY INSPIRING WOMAN }

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DO YOU HAVE A HAPPY PLACE? BY CINDY DECAROLIS

I think it is important to have a happy place. I define a happy place as a place where as soon as you arrive you feel calm, grounded, happy, and at peace. It’s a place you can go physically to be alone, meditate, walk, or enjoy it in the companionship of friends. It’s a place you can revisit through photos and memories when you need those feelings, but you can’t physically be there. I have many happy places near and far. Most of my happy places are in nature; they are all beautiful. John Muir said “The forests of America, however slighted by man, must have been a great delight to God; for they were the best he ever planted. The whole continent was a garden…” I think that we have the best of the best right here in New York State. I am delighted to share some of my happy places located in upstate New York. I love walking in the woods and there are many places local to Rochester and Central New York to get out for a hike. These are two of my faves: Corbett’s Glen Nature Park, Brighton: This is one of my favorite places to walk. On mornings when I am not going to have time to get in my own workout and take Barry for a long walk I go to Corbett’s Glen. It is close to my house and because there are a few hills I still get my heartrate up - even walking at Barry’s pace. I call this my kill two birds with one stone workout.

The trails run by meadows, wetlands, and waterfalls and there is an abundance of birds and wildlife. While you may pass others enjoying the trails, I have never experienced it to be crowded. There is a small parking lot at the park entrance on Penfield Road. Green Lakes State Park, Fayetteville: Before I moved away from Syracuse, I walked at Green Lakes most of the year and cross-country skied in the winter. There is a trail that loops around both Round and Green lakes that is roughly 3 miles. I always loved walking or skiing around the lakes and just soaking in the beauty. Each season is different, and they are all spectacular. There are 15 miles of trails throughout the park. The lakes are meromictic lakes, meaning that the surface and bottom waters don’t mix. I believe that this is what gives the lakes their deep green color. In addition to the trails, Green Lakes offers camping, a public beach, and an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones. Although it has been 25 years since I lived in Syracuse, I still love walking at Green Lakes when I am in town. I am Aquarius, the water-bearer, so it makes sense that being around water soothes my soul. Just being near water, watching it flow, and listening to its music calms me. Bordered by two great lakes, Ontario and Erie, the Finger Lakes and countless other lakes across the state, as well as the St. Lawrence and Hudson rivers,

New York State is a great place for water lovers. There are so many places where I have loved spending time on the water throughout my life. Because my family roots are in the North Country my childhood summer weekends were spent visiting family at various spots on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. But now, my most favorite place is one of the Finger Lakes: Canandaigua Lake: Canandaigua is the fourth largest of the Finger Lakes and the westernmost of the major Finger Lakes. I am extremely fortunate that my husband’s family has a cottage on the lake. They have a beautiful spot with a large lawn and a dock. Facing west, the sunsets are gorgeous explosions of color. I am so content to just sit out under the trees reading a book, watching the boats, or chatting with family and friends. It is incredibly peaceful. Kershaw Park on the north end of the lake features a landscaped beach, lakefront walkways, a public dock, and picnic pavilions. I hope that you have enjoyed reading about a few of my happy places. If you don’t have a happy place of your own, I hope you will visit one of mine until you find yours.

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{ BLISSFUL BALANCE } “I think that we have the best of the best right here in New York State. I am delighted to share some of my happy places located in upstate New York.”

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every human being is the author of his own health or disease.â&#x20AC;? - Buddha At Blissful Balance our mission is to help you to live life healthier. Let us help you to author your own health. Offering wellness workshops, individual health coaching and essential oils.

Please contact us for a complimentary consultation 585-532-6060 or cindydecarolis62@gmail.com www.blissfullbalanceroc.com Facebook @blissfullbalanceroc Instagram blissfull_balance

{ MENTALLY THINKING }

SUMMERTIME BLUES BY BONNIE FLOYD

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is most associated with depression during the winter months. It is estimated that SAD affects 4% to 6% of the general population. However, 1 in 10 individuals with SAD experience their symptoms during the summer months. How do we possibly make sense of SAD that occurs during the summer? After all, summer is associated with increased opportunities for participating in outdoor activities, including boating, cycling, and swimming. It is also when we celebrate the 4th of July, participate in picnics, and schedule family reunions.

relaxing and restorative. Nevertheless, they often involve disruptions in work, sleep, exercise, and eating habits. These changes can contribute to the development of depressive symptoms.

increased expenses due to arranging for daycare or sending their children to summer camps. These stressors are especially pronounced due to the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For women, having a poor body image is one of the most important contributors to the development of summertime blues. As the temperatures climb, we shed layers of clothing. This can result

Dealing with oppressive summer heat can directly contribute to summertime blues. Whereas some women enjoy the sun and heat, others definitely do not. I have extremely heat-sensitive relapsing-remitting MS; my MS symptoms are quickly worsened by extreme heat. For example, simply being outdoors for only 10-15 minutes will cause my legs to go numb. Staying in the heat will produce difficulty with walking, blurred vision, increased spasticity, and/or weakness.

Symptoms of SAD that occurs during summer months include loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, weight loss, and anxiety. These are essentially the reverse of symptoms that are associated with SAD during the winter months: excessive sleeping, overeating, and decreased motivation. There have been several proposed theories for the development of summertime SAD. Longer days, accompanied by increased heat and humidity, are theorized to play a role in the development of this disorder. Disrupted schedules may also contribute to symptoms of summertime SAD; the majority of individuals who struggle with depression are more sensitive to disrupted schedules. Vacations are intended to be 290

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So, what is effective in dealing with summertime SAD? As is the case for all forms of emotional distress, it’s critical to recognize when our symptoms warrant professional help. It’s important to first rule out any medical conditions that may be contributing to the summertime blues, such as untreated hypothyroidism. in feeling very self-conscious about our bodies. A lot of summertime activities involve beaches and pools, which is most embarrassing for women who feel ashamed about how they look.

Planning ahead can made a tremendous difference for those who are prone to summertime SAD. If you have plans in place, you’ll feel much more in control of your schedule when summer arrives.

Financial stressors can also contribute to the development of summertime SAD symptoms. Taking a vacation can be very expensive. Parents frequently face

Maintaining an adequate sleep schedule is essential, regardless of the season. Summertime activities, including vacations, barbeques, and shorter nights, can all

{ MENTALLY THINKING } “Symptoms of SAD that occurs during summer months include loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, weight loss, and anxiety. ”

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{ {RWO’S MENTALLY MENTAL THINKING HEALTH} } “Finally, don’t forget to examine if summertime happens to be associated with particularly painful losses or events, both of which can contribute to the development of summertime SAD.”

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l encourage women to stay up later than usual. However, not receiving adequate sleep is a definite trigger for increased depressive symptoms.

Having an excessively restricted diet is only likely to foster increased anxiety and a sense of “failure,” contributing to increased depression.

Keeping up with regular physical exercise is an important tool for the management of summertime SAD. Try to schedule exercise during relatively cooler periods of the day, such as the early morning, if you’re especially sensitive to heat. There is a substantial body of research that supports physical activity as an effective treatment for depression. Although maintaining physical activity during the summer is important, try to refrain from attempting an unrealistic makeover of your body during this time of year.

Be sure to protect yourself from the added stress of always having to be in charge of your family’s annual summer reunion; delegate tasks to other family members, or consider having your event catered, if financially possible. Be flexible, as well as realistic, about the outcome of maintaining family traditions.

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Finally, don’t forget to examine if summertime happens to be associated with particularly painful losses or events, both of which can contribute to the

development of summertime SAD. Perhaps the summer months are associated with the loss of a loved one, which may contribute to increased symptoms of depression. Alternatively, summer might be associated with the painful end of a relationship for some women. Regular sessions with a trusted therapist can be very effective in coping with these types of triggers for summertime SAD. Even if SAD symptoms persist for only a few months, they still deserve to be treated. Sometimes, an episode of untreated summertime SAD can evolve into a major depression in the fall. In this case, it is often much more challenging to treat successfully.

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{ LIFE { THE ANCHOR FITNESSCOACH DIVA } }

CRAZY TALK BY MARISELY MARTE

As a personal coach, I work with a wide range of clients and offer a highly personalized approach tailored to individual needs. In a supportive atmosphere, I help clients reach the professional and personal growth they’re striving for in their life. Growing up as a Latina, my parents’ culture integrated into me. I learned about faith-church, family, fiestas, & food. I didn’t grow up with a healthy or fitness mindset for that matter. My parents’ generation wasn’t a culture that incorporated a healthy lifestyle; their knowledge about cultural awareness was limited. As a Latina Christian woman, I grew up sheltered from the real world and with a limited belief system. The challenges of not being well diverse growing up affected many aspects of my life. Making changes towards a healthy lifestyle have been a challenge for me. My lack of experience and emotional avoidance formed a barrier related to the factors that contributed to my upbringing. As a Christian Latina woman, I learned you get married, have kids, work, and attended church, in that order. Being fit wasn’t an area of importance in my life; I had no understanding that physical fitness was about having a balanced life. I believed that the gym was something forbidden for Christian women. If I only knew, exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and negative mood and improving selfesteem and cognitive function, everything I was going through at the time. Also, with limited knowledge about fitness and seeing girls so fit, that I compared myself with, I had self-image problems and no self-esteem. I had no one whom 294

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to talk to about these normal emotions that every teenage girl faced. Today, I can speak freely on the many obstacles have taken place in my fitness and wellbeing. A few years ago, I was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism’s deficiency of thyroid hormones can disrupt such things as heart rate, body temperature, and all aspects of metabolism. After the diagnosis, my physician said there wasn’t much she could do for me but prescribe medication to control my symptoms. I was a little defeated at first, I needed a second opinion. I decided to do something about it and began to learn about Wellness and Fitness. At first it was very overwhelming; however, I came across Wellness Coaching. After a few months into my research, I decided to become a Certified Wellness Coach because it was something that I felt so passionate about. In 2016 my journey began with changing my eating habits and implementing fitness that was proper for me personally. We hear about so many different diets, about what supplements to take, about what shakes to drink, etc. The information I had was incomplete and wrong, in a sense. There is as many “right” diets as there are people on the planet. Your diet changes as YOU change. Your relationship with food and your body affects your health more powerfully than the food you eat. Every symptom, craving, or behavior around food has a positive intention; therefore, symptoms, desires, and practices are not the problem; they are the just the best solution you have come up with so far. Nourishment is

about much more than just food. I will be frank; I’ve had my challenges through my journey in fitness. No, I’m not super skinny, I don’t have a sick pack, I’m not a model, but I am a Christian Latina woman who is making a positive change in my family’s life and mine. Coaching myself in fitness I formed a vision for my health and well-being. Developing a healthy mindset and healthy habits takes discipline. My accomplishments encourage me to keep going forward. As a Wellness Coach, I’m a professional who supports women in assessing their current physical and emotional state and setting goals for what they want to achieve in their overall wellness and health by working with them on plans of action to reach their wellness goals. I offer sessions, both in-person and virtual services. We will start by completing an initial assessment to clearly define your short and long-term goals. Everything from communication skills to personal acceptance. We will use these goals as a foundation to create a strategy for success. As a Health and Life Coach, I specialize in the following areas: Personal Growth Spiritual Growth Professional Development Relationship Coaching Communication Skills Confidence Inner Peace Achieving Balance Health & Weight Issues Organization & Productivity

{ LIFE { THE ANCHOR FITNESSCOACH DIVA } } “ Coaching myself in fitness I formed a vision for my health and well-being. Developing a healthy mindset and healthy habits takes discipline. My accomplishments encourage me to keep going forward.”

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BEACH DAZE BY TAMMY VREELAND

Do you hear it? The crashing of the waves, hypnotically putting you into a much-needed Beach Daze? Yes! It’s that time of the year, to hear the call of the beach! To stretch out, on the warm sand and daze into the sea. What are some things you like to do at the beach? Are you one who promptly puts up a beach chair - ready to people gaze? Or perhaps, you prefer a beach blanket where you stretch out to sun and keep to yourself? Once you have staked your territory, slathered yourself in lotion what do you do next? Enjoy a new book or great magazine (wink wink)? Or perhaps, you crank up the tunes? And yet, there are ones who like to tackle the water, wearing themselves out - only then, to have a nice relaxing sunning afterwards. How many of you, play with the sand while at the beach? Do you mindlessly make circles with your toes or fingers? Or perhaps, you construct elaborate sand castles or other interesting structures? Including, burying a willing or sleeping - friend or foe? How about scavenging? Do you scour the beach randomly for those precious seashells you find so fascinating? Or, are you one who likes to hit the beach early, so you can find even more unique items swept up on the beach from the night before? How about those long walks? What is it about the beach that actually encourages us to walk farther than we normally would? Is it the cool water that our feet love to splash in as we walk? Or does distance seem to be lost on us, for we are caught up in the Beach Daze? Whatever the case, getting those steps in for the day, always seems easier at the beach! How about other activities at the beach? Are you enthusiastic enough to jump into a good game of volleyball? How about Frisbee or simply bopping a beach ball around? And don’t forget, flying a kite! Seriously, one of the easiest things to do is pop a kite up in the air, due to the constant ocean breeze. Point is, the Beach Daze is literally for everyone!

Doesn’t matter if you pack up the family, grandchildren, friends or seek solitude ...the beach has something for everyone! Seriously, is the beach not one huge Zen Garden? A place, where you can enjoy nature, meditate and find inner peace? Sure, it may have its hassle, what with getting to the actual beach. Parking and then carrying everything through the sand to that perfect spot. Setting up, making sure everyone has lotion on. Then the dreaded sand in everything, including your lunch! But that’s why I call it the Beach Daze! Because no matter the hassle or inconvenience, when we think of our time on the beach - those hassles are not remembered! Instead, our Beach Daze memories bring only the best to mind! The soft warm kiss of the sun on your face, instantly warming you inside and out. A smell of lotion can magically transport you to a beach from anywhere. Nothing like the smell or feel of salt water on you or in your hair! The Beach Daze, is an elixir that creates a youthful and positive outlook on everything! Seriously, no makeup allowed! Your inner beauty becomes your outer beauty, windswept hair is the rage! And that bathing suit you thought looked bad on you at home, no longer matters! For you are now at the beach and it is what it is ...the Beach Daze has overcome you and that is a great thing! Let’s see what National Holidays, in the month of July, will coincide with our Beach Daze theme. July 5th - National Bikini Day – A day some of us may feel uncomfortable with but we need to embrace this day. Why? Because, it is a choice we now have! A choice to wear one or not. Not too long-ago, women were not allowed to wear a bikini. The first bikini was released in 1946 and has managed to stay around. You may think this was the firsttime women wore such revealing clothing but actually in the fourth century, Roman gymnasts wore bandeau tops and bikini bottoms. Unfortunately, that right was taken

away from us throughout the centuries. So, the next time you stress about wearing a bikini just know that it is your right and you can wear it with honor! July 10th - National Pina Colada Day – Ahhh Pina Colada, now we’re talking! That sweet cocktail made with rum, cream of coconut or coconut milk and pineapple juice - nicely blended or shaken with ice. Did you know that the earliest known story about a Pina Colada dates back to the 19th century? A Puerto Rican pirate, Roberto Cofresi, wanted to boost the morale of his crew by giving them this drink. Crazy, uh? Can you visualize, a bunch of pirates hanging out drinking Pina Colada’s? Kind of shoots down the stigma of it being a girl’s drink, now doesn’t it? July 12th - National Simplicity Day – What is simpler than going to the beach? Remember the Beach Daze, use it to your advantage! Get swept up in knowing the beach is calling for you, waiting for you, you simply have to go! July 19th - National Ice Cream Day – Of course going to the beach ALWAYS entitles you to an ice cream! It’s a passage of rights, sort of, that taste of coldness is a treat your body demands! And of course, once in the Beach Daze, we are more likely to succumb. July 31st - National Get Gnarly Day – Yes, it has its own day! And, if you are like me, I automatically connect ‘Get Gnarly’ to a ‘Beach Daze’ where if the waves are over two feet, it’s a gnarly day! If we are going to walk the walk, it’s only fair we talk the talk! There you have it, July - the perfect month to be in a Beach Daze! Summer is finally upon us, go out and turn your day into a daze! For the meaning of daze is simply a state of stunned confusion or bewilderment and you have to admit… have we not all been in a stunned confusion on how we made it to the beach? Only to then take a big breath of clean air, settle in with our toes in the sand and let all our troubles be swept out to the sea! I raise my Pina Colada to you and hope to see you there! CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

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HERE WE ARE BY LAYLAH I PHOT BY DEVIN MACK

Here we are in July and Covid -19 is still Affecting us. Mentally , emotionally, and physically. Not having gyms open it may seem downright impossible to keep yourself back on track. The key is to find your motivation! You have to want it yourself! finding the motivation to get back into shape after weeks of inactivity may cause some lack of motivation and also physical performance. Of course It can feel frustrating to get your body and your mind used to regular workout routine after such a huge break, here are a few things that can help motivate you. 1. GET YOURSELF NEW GEAR THAT YOU LOVE. one of the best ways to motivate yourself to work out is finding the cute workout clothes that you love that will make you feel confident and get you excited to go back into the gym. You can upgrade your look such as a new pair of sexy yoga pants or a nice new pair of sneakers, it really encourages you to put them to work. 2. DOING SOMETHING DIFFERENT than what you used to do such as try new activities that you’ve never done before. Have you done yoga, Zumba, or even biking? These are things that will help keep the body active. 3. CHALLENGE A FRIEND WITH A WEIGHT LOSS GOAL. This will be a very fun and competitive thing to do if you have a friend that has the same goals as you such as getting in shape challenge each other to see who can lose the most weight within a certain amount of time kind of like the biggest loser, then discuss what the reward for the winner would be. Dinner and movie on them? Cash reward? This will 300

CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: JULY/AUGUST EDITION 2020

challenge you to push harder. Since A lot of businesses are closed and we’re unable to do the things we normally would like to do, there’s a lot of things that we can do on our own as well as with friends or family. 1. TEACH YOURSELF A NEW INSTRUMENT. Have you always wanted to learn to play guitar, violin and flute? take the extra time to learn. You never kno you could possibly create a good song. 2. EXPLORE NATURE! Try kayaking, hiking, biking , or even plan a camping trip. 3. LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE. exercise your brain muscles by teaching yourself to speak a language you’ve always been interested in learning. There are so many resources available on google and YouTube. 4. EXPERIMENT IN THE KITCHEN. Sometimes we struggle in the kitchen but take some time to sharpen your skills. Purchase a cookbook or follow a cooking show online and share your new cooking skills with friends and family. 5. GIVE YOURSELF YOUR OWN PERSONAL SPA DAY. There are tons of wonderful informative facials that you can do yourself online. Around this time of the year during summer it’s important to keep our skin hydrated. 4. DO SOME ORGANIZING. organization is something everyone should do. Take a look in your home or office and think if there are things that could be in order. The other day I was

trying to find one of my favorite DVDs to watch and I thought to myself why not sort all of my DVDs in alphabetical order, so that way if I ever want to find one I will kno exactly ware to look. Organizing things makes life easier, especially when your a very busy person. 5. HOME IMPROVEMENT. Think of some things that you can do around your home that you can improve on. possibly paint the kitchen? New flooring? Sometimes adding new things into our home will make it feel new again, and make it more comfortable l. 6. TAKE A LONG DRIVE BY YOURSELF. this is one of my favorite things to do since I love music. it’s so relaxing to drive around at times with the windows down and the music up and just clear your mind while you explore the city, you would be surprised at new places you may have never seen. 7. CREATE A PIECE OF ART maybe you never thought of yourself as an artist but everyone has a creative side. experiment with paint, beads, and glitter. Look at artwork online and challenge yourself to recreate it. 8. DO A RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS during this time that we’re all experiencing there’s many people that are probably stressed , you can make a huge impact on a stranger‘s life. try doing something nice for a homeless person, leave a large tip for a waiter, pay for someone’s coffee, give someone a compliment. You really could make someone’s day which will make you feel amazing.

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