SPECIAL INSERT
SOME OF CENTRAL NEW YORK’S AMAZING MEN
FEATURING:
Todd Reid THIS IS MY JOURNEY
- KHANG LE - APOLLOKIDD - CHRISTIAN MOORE -SEAN MCLOED - JOSH KING - MU-SHAKA BENSON - HASAN STEPHENS - ANTHONY MARRONE - DANIEL FAINMAN RICKEY BROWN AUSTIN SMALLWOOD - AND MORE! CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: MEN’S EDITION 2020
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COVER STORY 12
TODD REID : THIS IS MY JOURNEY
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MEN 2020
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FASHION FORWARD Whiskey Jack’s Glass Slipper by Khangle
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GOT A MINUTE? Sean McLeod
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INSPIRING MAN John “ApolloKidd” Thompson
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IN HIS OWN WORDS Jacob Roberts
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BEHIND THE SCENES Daniel Fainman
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CNY TRAVELS Agness Wine Cellars
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A FAREWELL TRIBUTE Remembering David Carsel
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CNY KING OF ARTS Mu-Shaka Benson
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THE GOOD LIFE Hasan Stephens
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UNAPOLOGETICALLY JOSH Joshua Michael King
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CNY DIVERSITY Rickey Brown
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LEADERSHIP & VALUES Anthony Marrone
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Austin Smallwood
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CNY ALL ACCESS Christian Moore
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{ FROM THE PUBLISHER }
“I always thought it was me against the world and then one day I realized it was just me against me.”
P
T T
ON OUR COVER
On the cover of our 2020 Annual Central NY Men Online magazine, we have a man on a journey, Todd Reid. Reid is the creator and founder of Access Dental Laboratories that will be the first of it’s kind opening in the Southside of Syracuse in 2021and was photographed on the river in the Cornhill neighborhood of Rochester, NY.
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lease give a huge Central NY Woman Online welcome to our 2020 Men’s edition cover man, entrepreneur Todd Reid.
{ A LOOK AT OUR TEAM }
PUBLISHER
Kelly Breuer
CREATIVE DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGN
Kelly Breuer
CO-PUBLISHER PHOTOGRAPHY
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
ADVERTISING SALES SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORS WEB DESIGN & MANAGEMENT
Michelle DiBernardo Austin Smallwood Rowan Thorodan Solon Quinn Lauren Toub Studio Ted Ely Photography Kristen Rice Photography Buffalo Michele DiBernardo Todd Reid Tammy Reese Khang Le Randy Agness Austin Smallwood Alyssa Barker Blazina Lauri McKnight Kelly Breuer & Michelle DiBernardo Toni Natalie The Next Design
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 © 2020 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.
ACCESSGLOBALENTERPRISES I (800) 803
3-2095 I @ACCESSDENTALLABORATORIES
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THIS IS MY JOURNEY BY TODD REID
“Accept responsibility for your life. Know that it is you who will get you where you want to go, no one else.” - Les Brown June 1993, High school is over, I graduated. I have no plan to attend college; I didn’t do well in high school. I leave high school with a special education diploma, so in actuality I really don’t have options. I have desires, I have dreams and I know there is more to life than this. But let’s be honest, I have no academic skills, I have no role models, just a vision. I see people with nice houses and luxury cars but I don’t know the path to take to obtain these items. I had no one telling me to strive for these things when I was growing up. I lived in poverty. My view of success was the local drug dealer and rap videos. Here’s one incident I vividly remember: Mr. Reid to the front of the class: What do you want to be when you grow up? Here are the careers I had to choose from: professional athlete, rapper, singer, or hustler; needless to say, I chose hustler. Of course my teacher called my mom. My mom was embarrassed and extremely upset. But I think I was more embarrassed and upset than she, because I received a paddle in front of the class for my choice.
When we got home my mom told me to go to my room and do my homework. I’m sure she would have tried to kill me if I even considered going outside. I was on punishment for a week. She reminded me once again, not to even think about going outside to play. I knew wanting to be
a hustler was a bad choice and so for five whole days I was deterred. But when my punishment was over and I was allowed to go outside, once again, my desire to be hustler had returned because at the time, that was my visual standard.
So life goes on and we move to Seneca Falls. Years pass and now I am a senior in high school. Seneca Falls was a different world. I remember a particular incident when a random person made a racist comment and everyone laughed, except one person, a friend. She was in my graduating class. We were really good friends in school. We ran track together. She mentioned her family owned a business. I would see her father at the track meets. He always seemed really cool, handling business. When I think back he kind of looked like Steven Segal. He always took out the time to greet me whenever he saw me. His acknowledgment made me feel important. One day while at a basketball game I approached him. I asked if I could come work for him. I also told him I had no intentions of going to college. He replied, “you don’t have to go to college to be successful, I didn’t ”. I still had insecurities because I didn’t want to tell him I had a special education diploma. I thought if he knew the truth, he wouldn’t hire me. That school year came and went, I graduated from high school and I started working for his company, a
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{{ CNY COVER STORY} } SHIFT+CONTROL “Mr. Reid to the front of the class: What do you want to be when you grow up? Here are the careers I had to choose from: professional athlete, rapper, singer, or hustler; needless to say, I chose hustler. Of course my teacher called my mom.”
dental laboratory. I remember having to bring my high school diploma, driver’s license and my social security card, I felt like he would give me job mopping the floors or cleaning the bathrooms because I was a special education student. I knew I could do more, but I didn’t know what he thought. I recall walking down the hallway and a member of the hiring staff quietly said to Sir, “I have all of Todd Reid’s paper work, he has a special education diploma”. He replied, “I don’t care”. I was relieved; I mean words cannot explain the heavy weight that I had been carrying; now it was gone. My secret was out. I wasn’t mopping or cleaning bathrooms; I worked in the model department. That was the first time I felt like I had a chance to be successful. I knew I wasn’t book smart, but I knew I had skills. I simply wanted someone to take a chance on me. I was frightened that no one would. But the CEO of a dental laboratory took a chance. I felt like he was looking out for me. He would offer me opportunities to make extra money, he would take out the time to talk with me, and he would give me advice on life. He would talk to me about the growth of 16
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his company. He taught me to look towards the future. He dialogued with me about setting goals and having a vision. He was the first person I knew who spoke positively about the future. This was the first time I felt my special education diploma had no influence on my future success. I began to consider him a friend, a mentor probably more
like a father figure. Years went by and I saw, everything he predicted, happened. I saw the growth of his laboratory, but I also saw the growth in the people of who worked in his laboratory. Most importantly, I saw the growth in myself. At this time I was a polisher, but I had visions of being a metal finisher or waxer. I thought being a ceramist was beyond my reach.
In communicating with him, I would often say “I want to be a ceramist, but I’m not sure if I can”. He would in turn say, “how bad do you want it?” That was always his reply when I was unsure about accomplishing a goal. I would sit and look over the shoulder of other ceramist to get a feel for how they moved their hands and how the designs developed. I began to gravitate towards the lead ceramist in the laboratory. I recall him being extremely happy back then. He told me being a ceramist was the best job in the world and you could make great money. My idea of great money was $20/hour. I remember visiting his house and being blown away. I thought to myself, “This guy makes way more than $20/hour”. This gave me visual standard. He became my second mentor at the laboratory. I found myself looking over his shoulder and asking him questions. The CEO, back then, would say if you get finished with your work at a decent time then you can go sit with him (lead ceramist). So I would watch him pick up these tiny pieces of porcelain with a brush and place them perfectly. I wanted to be able to do it too. Then he would give me a training case to
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{{CNY COVER STORY} } SHIFT+CONTROL “I have all of Todd Reid’s paper work, he has a special education diploma”. He replied, “I don’t care”.
work on. It seemed so hard. I could not do it in the beginning. I would get frustrated because I wanted to be successful. At the time my definition of success was being a ceramist. Years go by, and I soak up knowledge from everyone at the laboratory. They are all valuable resources. I spent a lot of time wanting to be like other people and letting material items define my success. But I realized I was happiest being a ceramist and being the best Todd I could be. It took me a while, but I came to understand, we all bring our 18
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unique talents. This company provided me with a visual standard, I had to learn to meet and exceed those standards. I was no longer trying to be like the other talented technicians. I could only be me and I continued to grow. This company served as my foundation. Similarly, when you are building a house, there are tools you must have, like hammers and nails, but most importantly you must have a solid foundation. Working for this company was and still is my solid foundation and I am eternally grateful.
Spending 20 years at this company has brought me to this point. I am now the President of my own company, ACCESS Dental Laboratory. ACCESS Dental Laboratory is the first African-American owned, full-service, dental laboratory in the country. We are a comprehensive, light manufacturing, tech, companies that specialize in dental restorations while adhering to the highest industry standards on the technical manufacturing and design of crowns, bridges, partials, dentures, night guards, implants and veneers, opeing Spring of 2021.
MAKENNA
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{{CNY COVER STORY} } SHIFT+CONTROL “He would in turn say, “How bad do you want it?” That was always his reply when I was unsure about accomplishing a goal.”
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{{FASHION FORWARD SHE HUSTLES TALKS }}
WHISKEY JACK’S GLASS SLIPPER BY KHANG LE
Khangle was established in 2015 and has been featured in over 40 fashion events internationally, including New York Fashion Week, Philadelphia Fashion Week, Houston Fashion Week, Chicago Fashion We e k , a n d DC Fashion Week. He has worked with producers from Project Runway, Philadelphia Fa s h i o n We e k , a n d Harper’s Bazaar Magazine. Khangle has an exclusive partnership with the Golden Sea and World International Beauty Pageants, which hosted events at the Turning Stone Casino (Verona, NY) and MGM casino in Virginia. Khangle has appeared on WKTV, Spectrum News, and CBS News to discuss his collections. He also serves as an education coordinator for fashion programs at Syracuse University, Cazenovia College and
Herkimer College, while traveling across the country as a runway coach. He helps talent pursue careers in modeling based on his extensive knowledge of the fashion
services with everything exclusive designed by him. A twist for the area like New Hartford to have a fashion designer offering customized garments. T h e Asymmetrical suits made a huge impact on people in both gender with it unique look, affordable price and completely comfortable/ adjustable. Visit our showroom shop online at: GlassSlipperNY. com Visit our brand page at: Khangle. vn Instagram: @ Khangle.vn Email: Fashion@ Khangle.vn
industry and modeling agencies. This year, 2020. Khangle successfully opens his first showroom especially in bridal gowns and suits, offering rental CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: MEN’S EDITION 2020
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“I bring the miracle into fashion.”
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{{ FASHION FORWARD SHE HUSTLES TALKS } } “Be Unique. Be Different. Be U.”
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MAKENNA
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{ FASHION FORWARD} } { SHIFT+CONTROL “Together We Are One. Always remember, WE- #TeamKhangle - ARE - WITH - YOU”
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{ INSPIRING MAN }
JOHN “APOLLOKIDD” THOMPSON BY MICHELLE DIBERNARDO
John “ApolloKidd” Thompson was born March 5th, 1989 in Newark, NJ. (Bro Yahya) John Thompson III, his father started training him in the gym at the age of 4.
first loss , but vowed not to be defeated. Following a three month break from boxing, he found himself back in the gym getting ready for that next step up the ladder. A few weeks prior to
No t b e i n g a b l e to compete yet. ApolloKidd often compared himself to the adults in the gym. Implying to Bro Yahya once he was older he would be able to out box them. Always competitive, ApolloKidd went on to win the “06” Diamonds Gloves tournament, and “07” & “10” Golden Gloves tournaments. As an amateur, his record ended with a whopping 89 wins and 22 losses in 2010. He then spoke to Bro Yahya about turning pro and and his father/trainer took the initiative of finding his current promote, Vito Mielnicki. Entrusting Vito with his son, on June 22, 2011, ApolloKidd has his pro debut in his hometown of Newark, NJ. John “ApolloKidd” Thompson stopped at nothing to better himself and get into the position of becoming the champion of the world. On January 17, 2014 he suffered his 34
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his upcoming fight he was in a hit and run accident in which he was thrown off of his motorcycle. Cutting his left forearm severely, but not crippling
Newark’s best-kept secret, John began to strengthen that arm and went back in the gym. Recovering from a loss and the accident, ApolloKidd had to make a decision. If he wanted to box and become the world champion, it was all or nothing. Vito Mielnicki stated. “ApolloKidd stayed in fight shape just in case an opportunity presented itself.” He then proceeded to better himself in the ring. Nevertheless, he was given a short notice opportunity, but a valuable opportunity when he received a call that he could box in the Boxcino tournament. Not until he was on his way to the weigh-in did he get a call that he was able to box in the tournament. With only one day’s notice, Thompson took advantage of the situation. Beating three outstanding opponents. Living by his words, “You can only fail in life if you give up.” ApolloKidd currently is working on his art which you can find on IG- @ Apollo_Picasso.
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INSPIRING { {SHE HUSTLESMAN TALKS { RECOVERX } }} “You can only fail in life if you give up.”
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DANIEL FAINMAN BY MICHELLE DIBERNARDO
Dan Fainman is an energetic, positive, multi-skilled, and seasoned serial entrepreneur extraordinaire with an entertainment track record going back to 2006 when he was first featured on an HBO Series “Assume the Position of Mr. Whul”. Fainman, a zodiac Virgo, was born on September 5, 1990, in Manhattan, New York, USA. He is an accredited a c t o r, w r i t e r, producer, director, and the creative brain behind Film Castle Entertainment and Content Rich Entertainment currently housing a dozen intellectual properties in various stages of production. His latest directing debuts, ONCE UPON A TIME IN NEW YORK CITY and LETS HAVE A THREESOME (which Michelle DiBernardo stars in) movies have sparked the interest of blockbuster studios like Sony Pictures and Warner Brothers. Most recently, Fainman was featured on “The Irishman” along with Bo Deitl in the same scene with Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro. A number of infamous gunman roles in up and coming films “Asian Mob” and “Bare Knuckle Brawlers”. He was also featured in a Steve Stanulis and Richard Grieco film “Clinton Road” as a club-goer 40
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alongside Vincent Pastore and ICE - T. In 2012, Fainman co-starred in the feature film “Heartlines” alongside Steven Bauer. (Stephen Bauer starred in “Session” in Syracuse, NY back in 2007) Fainman is also known for his fierce tactics when it comes to writing
and producing his films. As an investor, Fainman backed Patrick F Gallagher, a producer at Incorporated Productions and Ryan R Johnson, president of The Film House, LLC. on “Mississippi Wild’’, the neverreleased movie they tried to produce in 2011. After being defrauded for over $250,000.00, Fainman didn’t let the pitfall interfere with his entertainment career and pursued litigation winning a $318,000 judgment in January
2013 against Gallagher, Johnson, and their production companies, Pretty Dangerous Films, and Velocity Pictures. From 2012 - 2017 Fainman has engineered and wrote a slate of feature films which he anticipates self-producing, co-directing as he evolves into his own director. He is quickly gaining keen momentum for having an eye for elegance, quality, a classy vision, talent, and the ability to persevere with creativity in storytelling from concept to screen within communities worldwide. When he was young, Daniel hit the ground running fiercely pursuing his passion for the arts in a world so diverse he understood that he can drive himself to be successful by being his unique self. Keep an eye out for this up and coming star. Michelle: What inspired you to get into the film industry? Daniel: At a young age, I was inspired by the movies I watched. Watching children my age and even younger become acting sensations gave the younger me the drive to pursue this
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{{{ BEHIND THE SCENES SHE SHIFT+CONTROL HUSTLES TALKS { RECOVERX } }} } “If I had to give advice to someone else, I would say never ever give up on your dreams. Believe in yourself!”
field. I remember my mom brought me to a Disney casting call when I was 9 years old and the casting director completely rejected me. I wasn’t sure what I did wrong. Since that day I made myself a promise. I’ll do whatever it takes to make it in the business. I’ve always appreciated and had a passion for creative arts. I always knew one day, I’ll get there. I
have many other inspirational stories that led me to where I am today and I’m sure many more that will lead me to where I’ll be in 10 years. It’s exciting. Michelle: What advice would you give others who are interested in working in this competitive field?
Daniel: If I had to give advice to someone else, I would say never ever give up on your dreams. Believe in yourself! Work hard, be consistent, and always steps away from success. Push through and keep pushing!!!
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{ { SHE { HUSTLES CNY KING ENTREPRENHERS OF ARTS } }} SHEHUSTLES ENTREPRENHERS
MU-SHAKA BENSON BY CNY WOMAN ONLINE
Central NY Woman Online presents Mu-Shaka Benson “ As a child, Mu-Shaka Benson always had and affinity for the arts. Whether re-enacting scenes from some of his favorite 80’s action flicks, drawing, writing poetry, short stories and rap lyrics, art has always been in his DNA. Being a shy child didn’t mesh well with his dream of being an actor. So he suppressed his dream for years until he saw a Facebook ad for an open call for a local horror film. Finally in his early 30’s, he took a leap of faith, auditioned, then booked one of the lead roles. That was the beginning of everything. Mu-Shaka has gone on to star in a number of independent features and short films that span across numerous genres. From sci-fi to horror to comedy and drama. Most notably, “Melancholia” for which he won Best Actor. On top of that, Mu-Shaka is an electronic music producer and a voiceover artist. Having lent his talents to the acclaimed 2019 sci-fi audio drama Windfall. He credits his musical inspiration to his love of hip hop as a teen and current electronic artists such as Solar Fields, Biosphere, Carbon Based Lifeforms, Hecq and Loscil. Mu-Shaka’s most current short film “A Void”, a “cosmic 44
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psychodrama” is currently in post production and being prepped for upcoming film festivals.” CNYWO: What inspired you to become an Actor? Mu-Shaka: My inspiration began as a child. I was always living in my
imagination which is what drew me to movies at a young age. I was obsessed with them. Especially action films. I was a huge Schwarzenegger, Stallone and Van Damme fan. Then Keanu came in with Speed. Then Wesley Snipes dropped Blade and seeing a black man kicking so much ass gave me life. I was a shy kid though so being an actor seemed like such an
impossibility. I convinced myself that it would never happen. Until around 2012 when I saw a casting call for a local horror film. I auditioned for it after days of deliberation and booked one of the lead roles. The acting bug had bitten me at that point and my passion was born. CNYWO: What are some of the most memorable projects you’ve worked on? Mu-Shaka: I would say that some of my favorite projects I’ve worked on would be “Dwelling”. A paranormal film in which I was the lead male and was my first to land a distribution deal. “Locke” which was a short sci-fi film in which I got to play an otherworldly character with blue skin. Then “Crossbreed” which was an 80’s reminiscent action/sci-fi film in which I got to play the bad guy. I had a blast playing the villain and it was also my first time working with names such as Vivica A. Fox and Daniel Baldwin, which was a humbling honor. Then most recently “A Void”, a sci-fi drama in which I also played one of the leads. I’m really excited about that one due to it’s poignant story and visual effects. CNYWO: How do you see the film industry evolving during covid19 era? Mu-Shaka: Given a few discussions I’ve had or listened in on with some
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“My inspiration began as a child. I was always living in my imagination which is what drew me to movies at a young age. I was obsessed with them.�
{{ CNY KING OF ARTS} } SHIFT+CONTROL “Being a shy child didn’t mesh well with his dream of being an actor. So he suppressed his dream for years until he saw a Facebook ad for an open call for a local horror film.”
industry insiders, it appears that the industry is approaching what I’ve heard referred to as the “new normal”. As we know, film sets traditionally operate with a large contingent of people from talent to crew. With COVID-19 upon us, that can no longer be the case. So extensive precautions have to be taken to maintaining the safety of everyone on set. That involves sanitary, hygienic, contact tracing and social distancing precautions along with smaller crews on set. The casting process would see an overhaul as well with casting being mainly through self tapes for the foreseeable future. CNYWO: What are you looking forward to next in your career? 48
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Mu-Shaka: My next hurdle would be to sign with an agent. My goal is to act full time. I could die happy if I ever got the opportunity to work with Spike Lee, Ava DuVernay, Antoine Fuqua, Ryan Coogler and Jordan Peele. Just a few of the black filmmakers in the industry that I admire. Lastly, I just hope to make some type of impact with my work, big or small. CNYWO: What’s some advice you have for aspiring actors? Mu-Shaka: Get into theatre. Take as many classes as you can. Learn and study the craft. Learn the business and how to navigate through the
industry. Always steer clear of people who tout themselves and make “offers” to help you progress in the industry for a fee. Never pay to play. There are countless cheats out there who’s main objective is to take advantage of up and coming actors. I’ve fallen for a few myself early in my career. Lastly, don’t give up. No matter what anyone says to you. No matter what anyone else around you is doing. There will be moments when you doubt yourself. They will pass. If you love the craft, you always know you’re on the right path. Stay the course and keep pushing! You’re always where you belong.
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{ THE GOOD LIFE }
HASAN STEPHENS BY ALYSSA BARKER BLAZINA
CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE PRESENTS HASAN STEPHENS Hasan Stephens is the President and CEO at Good Life Philanthropic Youth Foundation as well as an adjunct faculty member at SUNY Cortland. Through his foundation, Mr. Stephens has dedicated his life to improving the quality of life for “at risk” youth in Syracuse. Their goal is to provide life strategies and encourage entrepreneurship to help reduce recidivism and rise above poverty. Hasan is a graduate of Hobart and William Smith Colleges as well as Lemoyne College. In addition he is a well known DJ. Hasan resides in Syracuse with his wife Stasi Ramirez- Stephens.
Hasan: Community is balance lending voice to even the most vulnerable elements of the group. Equity is essential for community. Coming together to make sure that everyone is taken care of, contributing in a positive way, and benefiting in ways that don’t harm others. If we could create an environment where all differences are celebrated, not a the expense of another,
Alyssa: What makes you successful?
Second, I am a sponge. I want to learn as much as I possibly can, about everything. In the legendary words of KRS-1, “Knowledge reigns supreme”. When I was younger, a friend once told me that I was a “jack of all trades” and that if I wanted to be successful, I needed to focus on one thing. I’ve lived my life proving that friend wrong. It’s my well roundedness and multiskilled approach that makes me a leader with diverse skill sets and the ability to have familiarity with the many things I eventually hire people to do. Even if I don’t specialize in a particular area, I am able to carry my agency or company for a bit until we grow in capacity to hire someone who specializes in it. Then, I am also able to understand the world in which that person lives in so that we can effectively communicate to reach our goals. It’s this approach that has allowed me to grow exponentially in a short period of time.
Hasan: I have the three characteristics that continue to allow me to successful. First, I have the ability to operate with humble
Last, I have a superior work ethic. I don’t mind not sleeping. I don’t mind being the first one in the office and the last one to leave. I enjoy working on my dreams
Alyssa: What does leadership mean to you? Hasan : Leadership is about being able to identify the strengths in stakeholders, employees, partners and even oneself, in order to bring out the best in all of them. True leadership is not selfish or self-less, but rather in the land of the middle, called “selfinterest”. Companies are able to thrive when leaders can align all stakeholder’s self-interests with mission driven passion to accomplish the most difficult projects and goals. Alyssa:What does the ideal community look like?
confidence. I am confident in who I am and my potential or capabilities, yet I follow the age old adage “If you are the smartest person in the room, you are in the wrong room”. I believe that we are in a constant state of growth and we require others to help us develop at every stage of our loves. Surrounding oneself with the right people is key to ensuring one’s own success.
and the common goal is to rise together, that is the ideal community.
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“Leadership is about being able to identify the strengths in stakeholders, employees, partners and even oneself, in order to bring out the best in all of them. True leadership is not selfish or self-less, but rather in the land of the middle, called “self-interest”.”
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{ THE GOODTALKS LIFE } } { SHE HUSTLES “Community is balance lending voice to even the most vulnerable elements of the group. Equity is essential for community.”
and passions, almost to my detriment. As I have gotten older and married, I try to find the time for work and family balance; but I am still no stranger to sweat. This energy that drives me comes from the added benefit of being an entrepreneur. I have successfully aligned my self-interest with my work. I get to wake up every day and get paid to achieve my dream, not someone else’s. It almost feels like I am not working. I am simply living.
needs a nudge to the youth that is often deemed as unreachable. Our pride is really working with the youth that fall between the cracks. The truth is they are often the best gems in our society. We help to develop identity and purpose within our youth. We believe that if we aren’t trying to reach and save them all, we aren’t doing the job. Our keen focus on
Hasan: My personal goal is to inspire generations of youth and young adults to be the change agents for tomorrow, creating an equitable and inclusive world. I also desire generational wealth that can then be used to make the changes in the world that I believe are necessary. From an organizational standpoint, we are in the process of creating the first ever Hip-Hop Center for youth Entrepreneurship, which people can go to our website to learn about (www.gly.foundation). Our model, philosophies and approach, and innovation is intended to replicable for cities similar to Syracuse.
Alyssa: What are important leadership qualities? Hasan: Accountability - Leaders must be able to operate off of the “me first” attitude. Before pointing fingers at others, what could you have done better? How can I help others improve? Still Center - Leaders must have still centers. Emotions are often a leader’s downfall. It’s not that we can’t be human and feel; it’s that we must step back from initial reactions and emotions and think logically for the best outcome. Visionary – true leaders see the bigger picture and can adapt their vision as they go along. Alyssa: What is special about your organization? Hasan: Good Life harnesses the power of a culture that is typically shunned and misunderstood, Hip-Hop, in order to meet youth where they are at. We work with a myriad of youth, from the youth that wants better for their life but just 54
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knowledge in youth since 2009 with the intent of breaking generational cycles of poverty. We do it by setting the example ourselves and walking the journey with the youth. We have been contacted by and observed by other regions like Washington DC, Los Angeles California and even Sidney Australia as a model that can be replicable and used for their vulnerable populations. Alyssa: What are your goals?
Alyssa: What do hope your legacy looks like?
“hiphop-preneurship,” which combines the elements and characteristics of a globally consumed culture that youth understand and relate to, to teach youth “how to fish” through the entrepreneurial way of life is what defines us. Before entrepreneurship became a catch phrase in Syracuse, we have been instilling this
Hasan: Legacy comes in many fashions. Besides leaving a legacy of philanthropy to my own children, I hope to create a lasting legacy through the Good Life Youth Foundation. My greatest accomplishment would be to leave a blueprint for success for traditionally marginalized populations of youth, while shifting an entire culture to think and move like owners.
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JOSHUA MICHAEL KING BY CNY WOMAN ONLINE
Joshua Michael King is a two-time Cazenovia College graduate, earning an AAS in Fashion Design in 2001 and a BS in Human Services in 2010; as well as an induction into Tau Alpha Upsilon Honor Society that same year. He is now a graduate from Regent University, having earned a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership and Nonprofit Management. King is the CEO of Masking & Kompany, which offers consulting in the areas of management, development and planning, education, as well as advocacy. His expertise is in program and project development targeting marginalized and disenfranchised populations. He has been central in a number of organizations, programs, and community initiatives including his appointment to Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh’s Education Transition Team, where this committee was tasked with strategic planning and development. His experience in community engagement, sexual health education, as well as counseling have proven useful as a teacher for Syracuse City School District. He has been commended for having designed specialized homeschooling curriculum for his two Young Kings, Javonte and Jayden; which has been marketed and implemented in homes around the country. This year, he has spent time building a curriculum around Student Development and Leadership at STEAM at Dr. King, as well as teaching 4th grade. He recently resigned from the Board of Directors at The Syracuse 56
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Center for Peace and Social Justice, having been accepted into Leadership Greater Syracuse Class of 2020. He coaches Inner-City Little League and Track & Field for The Syracuse Chargers. Additionally, he is a featured podcast host and commentator, and has over 14K subscribers for his show #TheUprising with #UnapologeticallyJosh on www.
str8indieradio.com. His personal, professional, and spiritual mission has been to (1)ENGAGE the community in the identification of various social issues (2)EDUCATE or prioritize the understanding of oneself, community and (3)EMPOWER individuals to harness the collective and collaborative solution.
CNYWO: Who is Joshua Michael King/Unapologetically Josh? Josh: I would like to believe that who I am is still being written, but I discover a bit more of every single day. Life has never necessarily been a friend of mine; however, I have gained so much in the way of perspective, experience, and wisdom. As much as the world may want to receive me as everything except who I actually am, #UnapologeticallyJosh is a mere reflection of how I have come to know myself and make sense of my life. I am so many things and from so many things I have come; ever transforming to build a legacy brand that seeks to engage, educate, and empower. I live my life on purpose. The many things that life has presented me; good, bad, or indifferent, have a specific purpose to the process(es) surrounding growth, improvement, transformation, and declaration. If life taught me nothing else: I know I ought to focus upon the reality that life, in and of itself, is much larger than my own ambitions or shortcomings. CNYWO: What do you do? Josh: I speak power. I speak truth. I speak truth to power, in a way that is so much bigger than myself; holding myself just as accountable as anyone else around me. As such, I am accomplishing this through a number of growing platforms. Masking & Kompany has been established since 2001, as a fashion house that has excelled
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“I would like to believe that who I am is still being written, but I discover a bit more of every single day. Life has never necessarily been a friend of mine; however, I have gained so much in the way of perspective, experience, and wisdom.”
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{ UNAPOLOGETICALLY } { SHE HUSTLES TALKS } { RECOVERX } JOSH “I speak power. I speak truth. I speak truth to power, in a way that is so much bigger than myself; holding myself just as accountable as anyone else around me.”
producing custom garments; most recently having launched a collection of T-shirts and accessories that promote social justice and make statements. My business also offers consulting services in organizational development, leadership, education, community mobilization, health disparities, advocacy and activism, as well as training and capacity building. I have always put my money where my mouth is, which is why I have provided a number of families an alternative and innovative educational experience, having now opened The Academy of Excellence out of my converted dining room. It is an organic self-led homeschool that capitalizes on the individual strengths 60
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of each student, while focusing on opportunities to advance learning and leadership. This model has assisted 7 students that were struggling in the traditional setting, and have all since achieved and maintained outstanding academic achievements, several for the very first time. My students get to study in a way that is expeditionary, exploratory, and encapsulating; such as learning about entrepreneurship by participating in many aspects of the business, including making some of the existing products like the #Tr3sKINGquito brand of spirits, design and development of graphics or other products, as well as being part of the creative and production team for our
online platforms. I am probably most recognizable as #UnapologeticallyJosh from www.str8indieradio.com and throughout social media. I am the host of #TheUprising (Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10pm), and also happen to be Executive Producer and CoOwner of Straight Independent Radio, a growing podcast platform with nearly 15K subscribers from across the world. CNYWO: What inspired you to do so? Josh: I think that I have been most inspired by the many people that I have encountered throughout my life’s journey, and attempt to highlight the world from
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{ UNAPOLOGETICALLY } { SHIFT+CONTROL JOSH } “Some would say that I offer a voice to the voiceless, but I would argue that more than that, I teach people that it is okay to have or harvest the power therein.”
my eyes. Some would say that I offer a voice to the voiceless, but I would argue that more than that, I teach people that it is okay to have or harvest the power therein. Too often people have a way of diminishing, dismissing, or trying to dismantle what has already been anointed, appointed, and approved for us. We are always taught to compete, rather than collaborate or combine. I am very inspired by both the abundance of beauty and promise of the world, as well as the overwhelming tragedy and trauma that we don’t always pay attention to. Unfortunately, life can be quite superficial, which is why I present myself to the world in the way that I do. It takes immense courage and conviction to be so intentional with displaying one’s character and integrity, unapologetically and without reservation. If I had to narrow my inspiration down, I would honestly say that My Kings, Javonte and Jayden, are my greatest source of inspiration, motivation, and even encouragement. I never imagined that my life would be so drastically changed toward a purpose so great. When our father passed away in 2015, we became a tribe of our own, and they have done an excellent job at keeping me focused on what is most important. CNYWO: How does what you do play a role in the blm matter movement? Josh: This movement is historic and I have never felt more validated. We have come to a major turning point in our understanding of the experiences related to people of color. Conversations about race, racism, and privilege have
continually been something that I have always made a priority in all aspects of my life. It is engrained in the realization that my white mother taught me how to be #BlackExcellence, and that I have a certain responsibility to introduce controversy as a bridge toward communication. In recent weeks, I was able to stand beside both strangers, colleagues and critics for something that is much bigger than any individual compliment or criticism. It also seemed fitting that I should add to this momentum by announcing my intentions to secure a seat as a Commissioner of Education for Syracuse City School District in 2021. After having served my community for three years as a teacher in a community that ranks #1 in the country for concentrated poverty among Black and Latino populations, I have witnessed the causes and consequences of systemic fallacies and failures like public education. As the #BLM movement advances our country, I try to stay laser focused on the aspects that I know I am capable of controlling and contributing to. Representation is essential now more than ever, and I hope that I am doing all that I can to be the change that I want to see in the world. As my business is contracted to build new organizations or committees, develop Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/ Representation Management Plans, vision planning, as well as neighborhood development projects; I cannot help but realize that these times have afforded me and all of us some great opportunities. CNYWO: What was some of your obstacles and gains during covid 19 era so far?
Josh: The COVID-19 Era has allowed me to get my home together in a way that the usual hustle and bustle of life has not previously allowed. We have grown so connected as a tribe at home, having now centered our lives around our family, faith, and fellowship with others. At first, it was overwhelming having to readjust to life at home, but it seems to have given us all a sort of peace. It is an amazing feeling being able to wake up everyday with the ability to cross off many things from lengthy lists that time has never been permissive of. Surely the virus is scary; however, we have not allowed it to stop us from building our home and expand our legacy. CNYWO: How has the blm impacted your community? Josh: This community has been systemically and socially neglected, and this movement has only further highlighted discrepancies, disconnections, and disparities of all kinds. We are finally in a place where we can openly discuss the issues that have been eclipsed by power and privilege. It is as though people are now able to begin examining these issues through another lense. Syracuse has had hidden aspect of history that keeps a dark cloud hanging over our heads. Much of what has happened here nobody is willing to discuss with a deeper level of transparency and truth. We must get comfortable with unpacking our past, being present, and preparing for the future. There is a delicate balance. I believe that #BLM has prioritized uncomfortable conversations, and reinvigorated me CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: MEN’S EDITION 2020
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to work even harder. It is crucial for young Black and Brown Youth to be able to see themselves in all aspects of their lives. Representation matters now more than ever; I am humbled and honored to be able to contribute, as well as model what it means to be #BlackExcellence. In many ways, my community has never been so connected, which makes the work all that more important. The momentum does not seem to have slowed, and as we begin to see change, it is not lost on me how important each person is. I believe that we are now more willing to put aside our differences, embrace our similarities, and work collectively to solve these difficult social problems. I see major breakthroughs occurring often, and I feel that we are slowly beginning to move in a direction that is equitable, fair, and just. We still have a lot of work to do, but every step that we take is in the right direction. CNYWO: What more needs to be done? Josh: We need new leadership at all levels. Politics are local, and begin in our own backyards. We can no longer afford to let life happen to or for us. We have to be active participants in this process. We need leaders that represent the people, rather than use people to get elected and 64
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serve only the people who show up or make enough noise. We are all just mere fibers contained in a beautiful tapestry. We all play a significant role, so we must make sure that people are engaged and educated on the issues. Our political arena is hostile and layered, which can only be changed by the efforts of people that have decided to be empowered.
just looking the other way, as though things only affect certain people or aspects of life. We have to work harder at listen to one another, especially young people, who are the smartest people in the room at any given time. We have to invest in people, not projects, plans, or proposals. We have to take care of ourselves first, then each other. CNYWO: What advice would you give those in your community who may want to get involved in anything you do?
Once we have changed the types of leaders, we have to aggressively alter the policies that we are governed by. From our schools to our neighborhoods, we have to gain control over what’s been lost; restoring the most basic standards, values, and processes. We have to recreate a village mentality that holds one another accountable and takes responsibility for everyone around us. We have to stop
Josh: There are so many ways that you can get involved in the community. We all have been blessed with gifts and talents that are being hoarded, and often ignored. More often than not, we don’t share these things with others because we don’t believe that it will be enough to make a huge impact. A small pebble thrown into the water will create ripples, and ripples can become great waves, if enough pebbles are hitting the water at the same time. What we have to recognize is that God is asking us to pour ourselves into each other, and that starts with being a vessel that is ready to receive. Whatever it is that stirs your passion, I recommend becoming fully immersed in it. The thing that is always worth investing in is ourselves, as all of that will easily become a source of strength for someone else.
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RICKEY BROWN BY ALYSSA BARKER BLAZINA
Rickey Brown is the CEO of DiversifyNY, specializing in assisting MWBE businesses obtain state certification, providing these businesses countless opportunities. Mr. Brown’s company provides entrepreneurs with customized training, networking opportunities, and marketing exposure. In addition Diversify- NY produces an online publication highlighting the MWBE community and the local opportunities available. Rickey is a graduate of Henninger High School as well as obtaining a BS in Finance from Syracuse University. Mr. Brown is extremely involved in his community. You can often find him doing community clean ups, speaking on expert panels, guiding local youth, and working with countless organizations to better the Syracuse community
Realizing that the ability to speak for others is an honorable position and in anointed position that I have come to appreciate greatly. That said, representing those voices is an incredible responsibility and one that I graciously accept and choose to use my voice as a platform for those that are disenfranchised.
Alyssa: What lessons do you want your children to learn? Rickey: I’d love for my children to learn how to be civically engaged in order to affect change through policy and education. Alyssa: Why are you passionate about what you do? Rickey: I’m passionate about what I do because I recognize that it may be a calling. As my career advanced I recognized the necessity for certain social conditions to be elevated urgently to the forefront of local strategies to decrease policy. I feel strongly that there is an economic imbalance between black and white communities here in Central New York and statistically speaking we have one of the whitest wealth disparity gaps in the nation.
Alyssa: What does leadership mean to you? Rickey: Leadership to me is the ability to place the greater good of others ahead of one’s own personal needs and wants and the ability to empathize with those living through circumstances and conditions less than one’s own. Alyssa: What makes you so passionate about what you do? Rickey:
to visit many states across the nation and by far this is my favorite place in the country. Although many lament about the property taxes here I think Central new York has so much to offer environmentally economically and socially. Of course, my family rooms are also planted here.
Alyssa: What makes CNY special? Rickey: Central New York is special to me primarily because it is my place of birth however I’ve had the opportunity
Alyssa: What do you want people to know about you and your company? Rickey: My company is focused on building the economic prowess of our minority CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: MEN’S EDITION 2020
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and minority women owned businesses in Central New York community as it is central to building a complete economic recovery post Covid. It’s critically important that we understand the ability of these businesses to draw state funded contracting dollars to the regional economy. Our goal is to increase MWBE representation in Central New York by 30% over the next four years. Alyssa: What characteristics do you admire and why?
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Rickey: Loyalty, integrity, and candor. I believe they are the measure of any honorable man. Alyssa: How do you think this region can maximize it’s potential? Rickey: By investing in minority and women owned businesses of course! Alyssa: What is your advice for people looking
to be in a leadership position? Rickey: I would say do what you’re passionate about and leadership would find you. I don’t think anyone that does what I do and they are many, however they would probably consider themselves people of action rather than being characterized as leaders.
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ANTHONY MARRONE BY ALYSSA BARKER BLAZINA I PHOTOS BY SOLON QUINN
Anthony Marrone is a life long resident of Central New York. He is a graduate of Christian Brothers Academy and Syracuse University College of Law. Mr. Marrone is CEO of the Marrone Law Firm in Syracuse specializing in elder law, Medicaid, trusts and estates, and special needs planning. Anthony is also a founding member of the Action Fund aimed at advancing underserved businesses and areas in the Syracuse community. He is also a loving husband to his wife Melissa and proud father of 3 sons. The following is our discussion of leadership and values. Alyssa: What does community mean to you? Anthony: Community is much more than a geographic location. Community to me is a feeling. It’s that sense that we’re in this thing together as a group. You can have a large community like Central New York, or I can have community with one other person. I love meeting someone new and telling them, “I’m so happy to be in community with you”. That’s really one of my favorite terms to talk about. If we take a step back and think of the larger Central New York community, I see it as a thriving group of people who are recovering from economic set back, and have charted a course forward using the resiliency we’ve all earned through enduring the harsh seasons up here. Even though we are a diverse group with differences of opinion, the Central New York community quickly comes together
to defend our own, and I think that’s one of the hallmarks of a thriving community. Alyssa: How do you feel you can leave this world a better place? Anthony: I’m a firm believer in “actions speak louder than words”. I write notoriously short emails and letters, I am more interested in showing you, rather than telling you. That may be rare for a lawyer (insert lawyer joke here), but I just think that the energy I put into this community through my activity will define my legacy. For me that looks like a few different things. First, my clients are mostly people who are going through a difficult time, either a family struggling with placing an elderly parent in a facility, or someone dealing with the loss of a loved one. By practicing a high degree of empathy with my clients, I am trying to tilt the course of my clients’ experience with lawyers to be a positive one that leaves them feeling as though they’ve helped through a difficult time with compassion. Additionally, I try to be active in the community through a combination of volunteering on Boards of Directors of nonprofit agencies, philanthropy, and pro bono legal representation of underserved communities. Alyssa: What do you want your children to learn about making a difference? Anthony: I want them to learn that you don’t
have to have a famous last name or a ton of money to make an impact. Sustained action over an extended period of time will have the greatest impact. Alyssa: What is the focus of your business? Anthony: We are a boutique law firm representing individuals and small businesses across a range of areas including: business formation and strategy, estate planning, succession planning, trusts and Elder Law, and guardianships. We are a close-knit team, laser-focused on changing law firm culture. We were one of only three businesses in Central New York named to Inc. Magazine’s 2020 Best Workplaces List, and have been named a Best Place to Work by CNY Business Journal consecutively from 2017 through 2020. Alyssa : What makes you a leader? Anthony: I’d like to think that my commitment to making Central New York a better place to live and work bestows a certain responsibility of leadership on my shoulders. I don’t spend a lot of time giving energy to titles like “leader” or “boss”, I’m much more interested in broadening my networks within this community and identifying like-minded individuals and businesses looking to tilt the trajectory of Central New York in a positive direction.
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{ LEADERSHIP ANDTALKS VALUES } { SHE HUSTLES { RECOVERX } } “Community is much more than a geographic location. Community to me is a feeling. It’s that sense that we’re in this thing together as a group.”
Alyssa: What do you want the public to know about you and your business? Anthony: The first thing, and really the most important thing is we care about people and small business. I’m not interested in representing the big multinational corporations and those that don’t have roots in Central New York. I know too many lawyers who brag about the big client in New York City or Washington D.C., and I just have no interest in that. I want to make a positive impact in the lives of my employees and clients who are all based in this community. So 72
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when I see we care, one of our core values is to really show that to clients. Many of our clients become family to us. We celebrate their joys and triumphs, and we are there with them at the difficult times. That’s just my outlook on life and business, and I’m very interested in establishing those personal connections. Alyssa: What makes CNY special for you? Anthony: I’ve seen this question asked of people, and I always wonder how to respond. This is my home, I have so many positive memories of a child
spent cruising the streets of the City’s North Side. I have so many great memories of my first home and bringing home my 3 boys to our house on Syracuse’s East Side. I love that we are a unique cross-section of many different nationalities, political ideologies, and business groups. I’m also a big sports fan, so I love the mix of collegiate and minor league sports we have to offer. Finally, you can go from my Downtown office to farms and cows in less than 14 minutes (I’ve timed it), and I don’t know many other places with that kind of range of activities and culture.
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SEAN MCLEOD BY DEVIN MCLEOD & KIERSTYN ZAYKOSKI
Over 40 years of activism for minorities, women, and people of color; and with a 30 year track record leading at least 3 Black businesses - the New York Institute of Dance & Education, Reaching for Higher Ground Consulting, and the Not for Profit Kaleidoscope Dance Theatre, Sean McLeod has helped countless women and their families find voice and a pathway to be seen, heard, and respected around the globe. Sean is an Executive Producer, Award Winning Entrepreneur, and American Choreographer whose work spans more than 30 years and 3 continents. He works in New York City, across the US, and internationally to the West Indies, Europe, Africa, and right here in CNY. He is a celebrated Conference Designer, Fortune 500 Executive Life Coach, and Mediation Expert that uses Personality Development and Emotional Development to help Corporations and Executives thrive with change. He teaches Life Skills to Teens, communication skills to adults, and does Family Development intervention for public schools and universities. Acknowledging the aforementioned, this is only the beginning of his contributions to our CNY communities and communities around the globe. Two accomplished women of business who write regularly for CNY Women Magazine were asked to work together 74
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and to share their experience. This article is the result of that collaboration. Kierstyn Zaykoski, Director of Operations for the New York Institute of Dance & Education; and Assistant Producer of the New York Dance Festival and Harriet Tubman Freedom Music Festival: I met Sean McLeod and his team 7 ½ years ago, when they travelled to my
hometown of Watertown, NY for a Master Class workshop. I was 23 years old and a full-time Pre-K teacher, teaching dance while directing gymnastics in the evenings, and competing as a professional cheerleader. However, what I wanted most was to figure out how to get to New York City and dance professionally. Just as I was starting to get restless and calculating details and expenses for a move to New York, Sean showed up and my
entire life changed. It changed because he brings real opportunity to every place he goes. There was an unbelievable change in the room when I walked in, a room I had been in for countless hours before. I remember sitting as a teacher on the side and watching Sean work with the dancers and the director of the school I worked at several times a week. The entire place was buzzing with joy and it wasn’t just dance, but transformative work that seemed to target exactly what each person needed to grow as a dancer, as a person, as a woman. I still have the first quote he shared with all of us in my phone’s notes “The push ups of your emotions are understanding and feeling success and failure.” Equating the physical work that we experience in a studio, in life, to the physical work we must do emotionally and not willingly destroy ourselves in that process, we gained a tangible process to experience failure. It opened my eyes in ways I still discover today. The next day I performed in a show in which Sean was invited to Emcee, but he and his team had to immediately depart afterwards. I ran up to them to thank them, and let slip these words, “I wish I could just pack myself in your suitcases and go with you all,”. Sean looked at his team and after a few silent looks between them
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“I am willing to make a few enemies in calling out bigotry, racism, and misogyny because I have seen my Dad be willing to do the same for as long as I have been in conscious mind.” - Devon McLeod CENTRAL NY WOMAN ONLINE :: MEN’S EDITION 2020
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GOT A MINUTE? { {SHE HUSTLES TALKS} } “What he shares is far beyond the confines of dance, far beyond business, far beyond personal achievement.”
responded “Well that might be able to happen,” and then turned with the team and left. Over the next two weeks, and because of both the physical and emotional technique I had learned, and how it had seemingly fixed a chronic knee injury and my self loathing in an hour and a half master class, I found him and the team on Facebook and email and started sending messages. With a relentless consistency, a few weeks later I heard back; “Why don’t you come take class in Auburn, NY tomorrow evening.” I immediately rearranged my schedule, drove 21/2 hours one way and made the session. This happened two more times, in a number of days and on the third time I was walking out the door and Sean nonchalantly said, “Would you like to tour to Barbados with the company in a few weeks?” Floored, I said yes, and it has been 7 ½ years. With incredible training in business and the arts, I have worked my way up through the company from Apprentice to Jr. Associate, to Product Director, and now Director of Operations. I have been able to travel around the globe as a business woman and professional dancer, work with countless amounts of people, and have learned more about so many topics beyond dance. All that with this understanding, I am just one of the several thousands of people that Sean and his companies have helped find the next steps in their personal journeys. He exercises a patience to let you discover your mistakes, even when your misreading of an indicator can 78
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impact him negatively. What he shares is far beyond the confines of dance, far beyond business, far beyond personal achievement. He teaches humanity is able to thrive only when you are willing to move over and help others to thrive equal to yourself. Man I am thankful I jumped in with two feet, and haven’t
looked back. Devon McLeod, Associate, Major Gifts and Development, New York City Ballet; National Director, New York Institute of Dance & Education; Associate Producer, New York Dance Festival and Harriet Tubman Freedom Music Festival: I have had the privilege to see Sean McLeod work for over 25 years upclose. I’ve graduated from NYU Stern School of Business, travelled the world, lived abroad, and am working for one of the most successful cultural organizations- the New York City Ballet, in one of the most recognized locations
in the world, NYC’s Lincoln Center. Throughout our lives, most of us have heard it said, that a family member’s assessment of one another can be less useful because that connection can often cut reality’s corners or see situations with rosy hues. However, at times, family can also truly tell the most honest view of a person, for better, or worse. As Sean McLeod’s daughter, I say with the fullest weight of words, that he is one of the most deeply thoughtful, caring, and giving people I have ever known or heard of. I have witnessed countless moments where we have sat in our home or in an office and, against the judgement of his several boards and of the protectiveness of his immediate family, Sean McLeod has said to us “I hear your concern, but we are going to help this family, help this person, help out in this community.” Many times knowing the return on investment will not be there for him, or us in the end, he asks us to forge on with him. In the moment for him, it’s clear that no one else has helped this person and no one else will. So we will. This kindred leadership, the willingness and mandate upon oneself to pay forward the kindnesses, emotional investment, and many times loss that have been shown to him is the trait I aspire to most, when I look at my father. Reading Kierstyn’s memories, I smiled. I was in the room for all of these moments, and was part of that communicative glance she spoke about before the, “Well that just might be able to happen”
GOT A MINUTE? SHIFT+CONTROL { {{SHE HUSTLES TALKS { RECOVERX } }} “I hear your concern, but we are going to help this family, help this person, help out in this community.” Many times knowing the return on investment will not be there for him, or us in the end, he asks us to forge on with him.”
glance she spoke about before the, “Well that just might be able to happen” remark. I remember seeing the glimmer of hope in her eyes, and walking out of the theater knowing we’d see her again because turning that glimmer of hope into action is the magic my dad manifests in our family’s life work. Not always easy, but our life work. I have seen him coach a professional to the most personalityaltering dance per formance of their lives, witnessed him facilitate a breakthrough moment of an executive life coaching client with their family, and help people refine their will to live, to not commit suicide by giving them the tools to cope and then thrive within that life. I’ll say that I’m lucky that I have gotten to be both a spectator to my dad’s work, a beneficiary, and now one who administers. I am a half Black, half white woman unafraid to take stands 80
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in fights worth fighting because I have witnessed my dad do the same here in Central New York and around the world. With the example of fighting for women
and helping guide them to their most formidable selves, to lift Black people by never acting like he is above being relegated to his skin color by some, and
for being willing to sacrifice personal joy to ensure greater participation and understanding for families who missed the lessons of concern for one another. A lesson he encourages us to help schools, families, communities, and leadership learn. I am willing to make a few enemies in calling out bigotry, racism, and misogyny because I have seen my dad be willing to do the same for as long as I have been in conscious mind. One does not do the work my dad does as a Black man without some people finding any and every reason to discredit or simply dislike him. But he perseveres while understanding their disposition and that moves me to do the same. Because of that, we get to read Kierstyn’s story, and countless other stories like hers of people Sean McLeod has contributed to, sometimes without anyone’s knowledge that he was part of that narrative. I, for one, as a daughter and as an aspiring leader could not ask for a bigger inspiration.
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JACOB ALAN ROBERTS Having been raised during an era, the 1970’s through the 80’s, and in a place, Springfield, Massachusetts, where, much like Syracuse, New York, the century-old downtown and inner city was being abandoned by the “upwardly mobile”, blue collar jobs were fleeing the factory-laden area, suburban sprawl and megamall development was the modus operandi, and the competition for securing a higher quality of life for any working-class family was growing more fierce, it was through my personal journey with experiencing the positive, healing benefits of employing creative, artistic expression vs violence or fear that helped keep me out of trouble, in good company, and with a pathway toward an education and budding career. As a young boy, an only child, who lost his father in an accident that nearly took his life, as well, who was raised a “latch-key” kid by a hardworking mother, living in a planned unit complex (e.g. Pioneer Homes or James Geddes Housing) for most of his youth, I could have easily found myself as another statistic, and yet at 17 years old, nonetheless, I was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a fire arm…. charges later dropped as self defense; but still? Thankfully, my story didn’t end there, nor did it worsen, because I had been given an amazing, life-saving opportunity to attend an elite private school in New 82
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England on financial scholarship because of my artistic talents. Members of my family saw that I had a special skill and a passion for art, drawing, painting, poetry, fashion, decor, music, and new ideas, etc. and made sure that I was offered the chance to use my natural gifts to better my outlook on life; and did it ever! Since being given that critical choice,
collaboration and exploration of “what is now possible?” I came to Syracuse in the summer of 1991 as a freshman at SU. Very much like my home city, in many ways, it was comfortable and oddly familiar, yet it was also a fresh start and signified the beginning of a new chapter in my life. After a year undecided, and another living and studying in Madrid, Spain, I decided to transfer into the School of Visual & Performing Arts (VPA) in 1993 ~ and the angels rejoiced! Even though I have a BFA, I envision myself as a Community Builder at my core. In doing so, I aim to convene a prized collection of innovative, intelligent, proficient, and enthusiastic new minds that embrace the notion that promoting free expression through the arts and creative problem solving is a significant and proactive way in which we can bring about positive and substantive change in our world.
since being nudged in a direction that amplified my own inner creator, my own innovative problem solver and designer of my own extraordinary world, I have made it a commitment to give back my community in ways that echo my personal journey from a place of stress, fear, pain, sadness and anger around the “hand that I was dealt”, to that of love, peace, color, music, joy, play,
Through my various endeavors as a citizen, entrepreneur and administrator, I have worked to improve the health of my community by acting as a catalyst for artistic and cultural evolution that results in positive social change. Understanding that we must face the injustices of racism, sexism, classism, ageism, extremism, poverty, hunger, terror, and hate everyday, I truly feel that it is our job to utilize the forces of innovation and resourcefulness to fix it. Even though the legacies, memorials
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{ { IN HISHUSTLES OWN WORDS SHE TALKS } } “Thankfully, my story didn’t end there, nor did it worsen, because I had been given an amazing, life-saving opportunity to attend an elite private school in New England on financial scholarship because of my artistic talents.”
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and belief structures of those who have traditionally placed the importance of personal profit over that of common human dignity still remain a strong influence in American life; it is my goal to help move us forward.
and ways, then we’re more able to accept human differences, is not afraid of societal change and is more capable of expanding their own personal forms of creative self expression vs. negative or violent forms.
In my time submersed in the “field” of the arts, it has been my experience that when we can let go and allow a rhythm, poem, painting, sculpture, edifice, landscape, film, act, novel, performance, song, or dance to take them away to a new, broader perspective of life on earth, of other cultures, beliefs
Ever since childhood, it has been my dream to see the day in which the people of my community are working in harmony to solve the problems of the moment, treat them as a common challenge, and unite to bring about sensible and creative solutions. As I continue working toward that vision
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here in Syracuse, I feel that I have made tremendous progress by sparking the imagination and passion of a new community of mostly young and ambitious system shakers. Our test remains, however, in truly empowering this new “cultural workforce” to go about fixing our social and environmental problems as an enjoyable and rewarding challenge; thus accomplishing something they will take great pride in.
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AGNESS WINE CELLARS BY RANDY AGNESS - AGNESS WINE CELLARS WINEMAKER
Who’s heading to the Finger Lakes? It should have been the biggest story of the day when it comes to local success stories as the Finger Lakes Wineries are reopened based on the criteria required in Phase 4. Robert Duffy, former Lt. Governor and current CEO of the Rochester Chamber of Commerce, was tasked with the Reopen Rochester and Finger Lakes. By all accounts, the movement thru to Phase 4 has been extremely successful. The Finger Lakes wineries have restarted wine tastings under the new social distancing requirements and are taking reversation to maintain a flow of vistors to prevent overcrowding situations. Yes, We are Open and ready to serve. If you aren’t familiar with the Finger Lakes, then you have been missing out on what has been designated as the best wine destination in the nation over multiple voting platforms. Now people are coming from all over the state, country and globe to taste and buy Riesling, Cabernet Franc and Dry Rose from the close to 100 wineries in the region. Generally, weekends are the most popular time to visit, yet Monday to Friday schedules do vary so its best to call ahead or
check-out the wineries websites. With the changes to the antiquated New York Alcoholic laws, the beverage industry has seen dramatic growth in wineries (471) and breweries (460). This allows for creating many trips thru the region on Canandiagua, Keuka, Seneca and Cayuga Lakes. The Finger Lakes consists of eleven glacial lakes spanning the distance
south between Rochester to Syracuse with microclimates that are ideal for growing grapes and hops. Over the last thirteen weeks, Agness Wine Cellars has been broadcasting on Facebook Live Virtual Wine tastings pouring twenty-seven Rieslings which define the great
tastes and aromas from the worldclass Finger Lakes wine region. In essenses, we are providing a fun and friendly format to learn about many wineries that you would like to visit and may not have heard of previously. On July 30th, we broadcasted live at the Rochester Women magazine’s POP-UP On the River at Kainos Restaurant in the Corn Hill neigborhood. If you attend this event nice we were there to chat about wines,and any other topic as I was around that evening, share a taste and a few smiles. Ultimately, first you have to determine if you are ready to visit tasting rooms to sample wines and brews or spirits as there are as many choices as you can possibly imagine. Beyond that an amazing amount of selections Rieslings, Reds, Roses and Sparking wines in the terms of high quality award winning tastes. Many people travel the rolling hills and valleys with acres of beautiful grapevines all around no matter which path on either side of the lakes. So make a day of it or even a romantic weekend trip for two and remember there are great choices try and buy at every turn.
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{ CNY TRAVELS } } { SHIFT+CONTROL “Now people are coming from all over the state, country and globe to taste and buy Riesling, Cabernet Franc and Dry Rose from the close to 100 wineries in the region.”
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{ A FAREWELL TRIBUTE }
REMEMBERING DAVID CARSEL BY LAURI MCKNIGHT
When a work colleague pours heart and soul into a job for his sheer love and dedication, he will never be forgotten. David Carsel was such a person. In 2006, under then-Executive Director Maryjane Link, Children Awaiting Parents (CAP) had the pleasure and good fortune of hiring David Carsel as financial officer. He was an efficient, organized and jovial addition to CAP. His supervisor at the time—Progra6m Director Patricia Burks— quickly realized David’s many additional talents and skills, advancing his position to office manager and finance, and bringing him on in development and event roles as needed. His eye for detail, ability to help set up any type of event, as well as finding amazing auction items, were second to none. David was able to juggle a mountain of financial obligations while keeping everyone in the office on their toes. Under his care, even the office plants grew wildly, spreading for yards across office cabinets. David was one of those well-liked staff members with whom everyone enjoyed conversing and sharing a good laugh. Without reservation, board and staff loved 92
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and respected him. He was that staff person to whom everyone went for help, advice, support, and even home décor. He had an innate gift for beauty, finding unique antiques that he made into decorative pieces for his home. His kind heart also extended toward animals, especially
David’s love and commitment to CAP can never be replaced. He made CAP a priority in his life. At the recent celebration of his life, I had the privilege of meeting numerous people whose lives he touched. In a quiet way, David was the one who demanded perfection, and many of his close friends said they imagined he performed the same way at CAP. David’s talents also extended to figure skating, where, at the Genesee Figure Skating Club, he had many admirers. At his celebration, close friend and fellow skater Marianna O’Brien related David’s love and talent for skating over many years, often skating together. Other GFSC members told of David’s great skating ability and his love for the sport.
to his beloved cat. Everyone who knew David also experienced his wonderful and quirky sense of humor. He often joked about offering a “special” at CAP: every adoptive family would get two children for the price of one (referring to adoption fees).
Coming on as CAP’s executive director in late 2018, I only had the privilege of working with David less than two years, but—with his thorough knowledge of all aspects of the organization—he was my “go-to.” He could figure out the financial issues, pull a budget together in no time, help plan a gala, and keep the office neat. Recently, I struggled with our mutual decision to begin diminishing his hours so he could work toward retirement within the next year. COVID’s restrictions
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impacted David’s ability to work from the office, so we met every Friday, including a meeting during the week of July 13 with great plans for our office reopening and goals for 2021. But that meeting day would not come. Suddenly and unexpectedly, David was gone on July 16. Mary Jane Link was so proud she had hired David, who, with his 14 years at CAP, took on the unofficial role as
“CAP Historian” plus so much more. CAP Adoption Specialist/Program Manager Veronica Black related how she, Pat Burks, and David had become family, celebrating holidays together over the years. David supported Veronica in numerous ways both as friend and colleague. His true spirit shown through as an annual REC Center volunteer with Veronica, helping cook, clean and serve meals. “There was no one like David, he
would do anything for anyone,” Veronica said. And that was true. During COVID, David supported collections for families and youth, and even donated items for staff that he thought they might enjoy. CAP will never be the same. It is my hope that David’s love and dedication will act as an example—a beacon for the organization as we move into the future without him.
{{ {ASHE FAREWELL SHIFT+CONTROL HUSTLESTRIBUTE TALKS}} } “David’s love and commitment to CAP can never be replaced. He made CAP a priority in his life. At the recent celebration of his life, I had the privilege of meeting numerous people whose lives he touched.”
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Finding Families for Waiting Kids. For more information contact: 888-835-8802 or 585-232-5110 info@capbook.com ChildrenAwaitingParents.org
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AUSTIN SMALLWOOD PHOTOS BY ROWAN THORODAN
Hey! I’m Austin from AGMT STUDIOS! The abbreviation stands for Avant-Garde Media Tailoring. It sounds crazy but, it is actually super simple. We are a digital media production company that loves out of the box thinking. We work with a huge variety of clients. Whether you are looking for traditional portraiture or a crazy new web series, there is ALOT we can help with. We offer modeling, commercial, music video, and Instagram packages at simple rates. Whether you need a cameraman for the day or on retainer we have flexible plans. Honestly we can help you with almost anything that has to do with visuals. We have done digital backdrops for artists on stage, helped shoot movies, and especially helped clients produce a more professional social media presence. It can make a huge difference for your business if you come across a team with the right people who have the right chemistry. We know the greater you succeed, the greater we succeed. We know a bunch of graphic designers, models, actors, and talented people who would love to work with you. What inspired to me to start in this field was the power of attention. I realized how efficient it was to capture attention from an audience with video and sound. It’s so much more powerful than just speaking. Not only that but, it can be easily understood from all ages 98
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and places anywhere around the world. Visuals can evoke so many different feeling that can be used to get ones point across. Sometimes you don’t even need dialogue to communicate with pictures and video. Something else that amazes me is how so many people can relate with each other from
movies. It can bring people together. Think about how many STAR WAR or HARRY POTTER fans there are. It’s incredible. Almost anyone anywhere can name a movie that has impacted their life. There were some moments I realized
that, this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. When I first began my career in the music video scene, I shot a lot of hip hop. It’s amazing to see how far it music videos can travel and how fast people can recognize your brand through shooting music videos. There were times where an artist would post our project on social media and I would see how much attention it was getting. One of the big moments for me was when I saw legend Styles P post the video on his story. You can check the video out on YouTube. Getting that type acknowledgment definitely made me want to strive even further. One thing AGMT STUDIOS take pride in is the fact that we look for serious talent that doesn’t get enough notice and we reach out to help that someone grow. Whether that be for instance, modeling or music. It can be sharing their work on our story or helping them connect with people that are already in the field. People reaching out to us in the beginning is how we were able to grow so it’s a kind of paying it forward. If your looking to get into this type of work the best way is hands on. That being said It’s important to connect with those around you who are already are in the field.
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“What inspired to me to start in this field was the power of attention. I realized how efficient it was to capture attention from an audience with video and sound. It’s so much more powerful than just speaking.”
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INTRODUCING... { {SHE HUSTLES TALKS { RECOVERX } }} “We know the greater you succeed, the greater we succeed. We know a bunch of graphic designers, models, actors, and talented people who would love to work with you.”
That’s not always easy so, we make it a priority to respond to any questions you might have to help you keep that drive. It’s easy to give up and hard to be good at what you do. But the hard is always so worth it. We are now offering hands on Photography/Videography classes for those interested in it either as a hobby
or profession. From shooting raw, to editing photos or videos on professional editing software. We can show you the ins and outs of your camera and how to shoot the best you possibly can. You would be coming along on shoots like wedding, modeling, and music videos. You would learn how to produce scenes with props, lighting, composition, and directing.
I would love to connect with anyone trying to make it in the industry, small or large. If we haven’t met add me on Instagram @agmtstudios for a chance to win a free photoshoot! @agmtstudios
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CHRISTIAN MOORE BY MICHELLE DIBERNARDO
Christian Moore is an actor, production assistant, and entrepreneur from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has been in the industry for quite some time now. Moore has worked on independent films such as Her Little Secret, The Dark Military, Subway Son, Philadelphia’s Sleeper, and a feature film Tupon ( The Ultimate Playlist of Noise). Some tv shows he has been featured on are Chase Street, Dope Unit, and The Other F Word with Steve Guttenburg f r o m Po l i c e A c a d e m y. Christian started doing production assistant work for Dibernardo Pro d u c t i o n s LLC. He has trained with Hollywood Director Tom Logan Veteran Actor Clifton Powell and John Pallotta. Christian started his own wine brand called First Class Wine. 1. What brought you to Upstate New York?
I came to Upstate New York to further my career and have a new start in life.
have you enjoyed any Upstate Parks? If so which ones?
2. What were your experiences on set as an actor in Upstate?
Yes, I have enjoyed a few parks in Upstate which my best friend, Michelle DiBernardo brought me to. A couple of them were Chittenango Fa l l s , C l a r k’s Reservation, and Thorden Park. I got to experience something different. Was definitely interesting being that I am afraid of squirrels. 4. What advice would you give to get in the business? The advice I would give to someone who is trying to get in the business is to be flexible, be professional, always be on time, work on your goals every day and you will become successful.
My experiences on set in Upstate were: I got to film at a studio for the first time on the feature film, “Tupon” (The Ultimate Playlist of Noise) while earning a Sag Waiver. 3. Being from the city of Philadelphia
Social Media Handles Www.facebook.com/christianmoore Instagram/Awardwinningactorcmoore Twitter/Firstclasscm88 LinkedIn/Christian Moore
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