Rochester Woman Online's Holiday Edition 2025

ON OUR COVER TT

Dr Beata Golec was photographed in studio by lead photographer Chrisom Beebe.

Dear Readers,

The Final Edition of 2025: A Year of Connection, Creativity & Community

As we close out another incredible year here at Rochester Woman Online, I can’t help but reflect on how truly special 2025 has been — a year filled with growth, collaboration, and storytelling that continues to uplift, empower, and connect women across our region and beyond.

This final edition of the year is one that shines with inspiration and heart. Gracing our cover is the extraordinary Dr. Beata Golec — a passionate pianist, composer, and educator whose life’s work reminds us of the power of music, discipline, and creativity to move and transform us. Her story is a beautiful reflection of dedication, artistry, and purpose, and I’m so proud to share it with our readers.

Inside these pages, you’ll also find powerful stories of purpose and perseverance — from Carla and her team at Lovely You Aesthetics, who blend art and science to help others feel confident and radiant inside and out, to Stephanie from Driphouse Spencerport, whose dedication to wellness and community has redefined the way we think about self-care. We also highlight the incredible efforts of Roc Veterans, an organization bridging the gap for local service members and families, and 13Thirty Cancer Connect, whose legacy of love and promise continues to change lives for young adults facing cancer.

And because it wouldn’t be the holidays without a little sparkle and shopping joy, don’t miss our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide — filled with thoughtful, local gift ideas for everyone on your list. From spa services and personalized treasures to travel, fashion, and fun stocking stuffers, it’s the perfect way to shop small and support the amazing businesses that make our community so vibrant.

As we get ready to step into 2026, I want to take a moment to thank all of our readers, advertisers, partners, and contributors who make Rochester Woman Online what it is — a powerful platform for women’s voices, stories, and success. If you’re interested in being part of the area’s premiere online women’s publication in the new year — whether by showcasing your business, joining us as a columnist, advertising your brand, or sharing your ideas — I’d love to connect with you.

Let’s continue to create, collaborate, and celebrate together in 2026. Here’s to new beginnings, bold stories, and even brighter possibilities ahead.

With gratitude and holiday cheer,

Kelly BreuerPublisher | Rochester Woman Online Magazine

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Beata Golec

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BEATA GOLEC

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

The Art of Passion: Dr. Beata Golec’s Life in Harmony

Rochester Woman Online proudly closes out 2025 with an inspiring and extraordinary woman whose life has been shaped by passion, precision, and purpose — Dr. Beata Golec. A world-class pianist, award-winning composer, and dedicated educator, Dr. Golec’s story is one of resilience, brilliance, and boundless creativity. From her early beginnings in Poland, where her musical journey began at just seven years old, to performing on international stages and shaping the next generation of musicians here in Upstate New York, her life is a symphony of talent, perseverance, and heart.

With a musical foundation rooted in discipline and excellence, Beata’s journey took her from the prestigious Frederic Chopin University of Music in Warsaw to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester — where she earned both her Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees. Along the way, she has composed nationally recognized works, performed around the world, and built a reputation as a passionate leader and mentor whose influence extends far beyond the stage.

leadership, her commitment to nurturing students of all ages and abilities, and her belief in music as a powerful tool for healing and connection have made her a beloved figure in both the educational and arts communities.

As the recipient of numerous honors — including the 2020 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, the 2024 Victor Business Award, and the

leadership, perseverance, creativity, and the transformative power of following your true passion.

You’ve built an incredible career as a pianist, composer, and educator. Can you share a bit about your early beginnings in Poland and how your passion for music first took root?

Ontario County ATHENA Leadership Award — Dr. Golec embodies what it means to live with authenticity and lead with heart. Whether she’s composing, teaching, or performing, her mission remains the same: to inspire others to listen deeply, think critically, and create fearlessly.

My musical journey began at age 7, upon my acceptance into the Mieczyslaw Karlowicz School of Music in Katowice, Poland. The educational system in Poland is highly comprehensive and provides a wide array of challenging opportunities to the most excelling students. Music students play juries and complete exams in music theory and ear-training each semester. By the time I was in high school, my class-load included piano, accompanying, cello, orchestra, form analysis, music history, aural skills, part writing, counterpoint, conducting and orchestration. I attended all these music activities in addition to being a student in a “regular” high school. My typical weekday was filled with classes, lessons and practicing – about twelve hours a day.

Today, as a professor at SUNY Geneseo and RIT, the founder of Golec Music Studio in Victor, and the visionary behind the Young Musicians’ Concerts that support local food pantries, Dr. Golec continues to blend artistry with purpose. Her philosophy of empathetic

In this exclusive interview, Dr. Golec shares her remarkable journey — from her roots in Poland to her life as a mother, mentor, and musical force in Rochester. Her words are as eloquent as her music, offering wisdom on

Then, I studied at the Frederic Chopin University of Music in Warsaw (piano performance and literature) and at the Karol Szymanowski University of Music in Katowice (composition and music theory). I was a full-time student at two higher ed institutions located 200 miles from each other. I rode the Intercity trains between Katowice and Warsaw at least three times a week. What I really appreciated the most about the Polish

PHOTOS BY CHRISOM BEEBE

“Every year of my life brings new experiences and transformations. I could not pinpoint one life event that changed my path, but rather I see it as a domino effect – one small event or decision triggers a chain reaction of positive consequences.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

education was not just the fact of how solid it was, but how competitive it was, and the fact it was completely free. The most accomplished students received scholarships from the Polish government. The scholarships arrived in the form of a monthly stipend payment, and I was the recipient of these scholarships each year at both universities. In my freshman year in Warsaw, I was invited to attend the Chautauqua Institution Summer Music School on a full scholarship. It was a life-changing experience which propelled my interest in the Eastman School of Music, and I developed many friendships. I studied at Eastman on a full scholarship and earned Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in Piano Performance and Literature. In addition to my Eastman studies, I was a PhD student in Composition at University of Buffalo for one year. Given the fact, I was enrolled as a full-time doctoral student at two universities, served as a teaching assistant at Eastman and was working; I found myself stretched too thin, and ended my Buffalo journey. While still at Eastman, I became an examiner for the Advanced Placement in Music Theory, accepted a teaching position at SUNY Geneseo and became the Director of Music Programs for the Diocese of Rochester.

My amazing Mom Alicja Golec, who also is an accomplished music educator, was the initial inspiration and catalyst of my journey. She noticed I had a good ear at an early age. We later discovered that I had perfect pitch which was very helpful in my aural skills classes and for transcribing music. Of course, as a 7-year-old I did not want to practice (!). My maturity and appreciation for

the amazing field of music came at age 10. At that point I knew I would pursue advanced degrees in music. I had interest in piano, theory, composition, improvisation, and conducting.

I am beyond grateful to my wonderful parents who supported me and who sacrificed their time and resources to assist me in excelling as an artist and leader. They provided me with superior academic opportunities, wholesome upbringing, and high moral and ethical standards.

At just 13 years old, you began composing, and by 16, your piece Fantazja Polska was already receiving national recognition. What inspired that piece, and what did it mean to have your work preserved in the Vatican?

“Bogurodzica” is a medieval Christian chant composed sometime between the 10th and 13th centuries in Poland. The lyrics of the piece translate to:

“Virgin, Mother of God, God-famed Mary!

Ask Thy Son, our Lord, God-names Mary,

To have mercy upon us and hand it over to us!

Kyrie Eleison!”

“Bogurodzica” was my inspiration to write “Fantazja Polska”. The chant was embedded and often hidden in the fabric of my composition. For the instrumentation I chose the cello given its lyrical and warm sound while the accompaniment was provided by the piano.

How did your transition from Poland to the United States shape your musical journey and the way you approach

teaching and performing today? I strongly believe that resilience and adaptability are the skills that shaped me and my life’s journey. Adaptability relates to resilience. It translates to being open to changes in our lives. And, due to the fact our circumstances might evolve unexpectedly or within a short notice, it is a very valuable skill in today’s world. Changing continents, changing languages, and changing cultures have taught me how to adjust on a spot.

My profession (performer, leader, organizer, and educator) has taught me to stay open-minded, to use critical thinking and clear communication, and to seek opportunities to grow in situations which might seem challenging or impossible to solve.

As an educator, I strive to address the needs of very young pupils, neurodiverse children and adults, adult learners who have high expectations of their growth yet with limited physical agility due to aging, illness, lack of flexibility or memory loss, those who are retired and are looking for a new sense in their lives, and those who gave up on music but are coming back to it decades later to experience its healing power. I prepare students for NYSSMA competitions, music theater and choral auditions, college and graduate school auditions and job interviews. The versatility of my students’ and clients’ needs requires highly developed adaptability on my part.

You wear many hats—professor, composer, performer, and director. How do you balance your creative pursuits with your teaching responsibilities at SUNY Geneseo and RIT?

“Stay strong and never give up! Share your ideas with trusted mentors and ask for their advice. Collaborate with other professionals even if they are not in your field.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

I am known for being highly organized and reliable, and have the habit of notating all, even smallest details and ideas in my notebook. But truly, what helps the most is pursuing a career which is a life-long passion and never a chore. The willingness to learn and acquire new skills, stepping outside one’s comfort zone and expecting oneself to continuously improve and perfect their skills are my professional objectives.

A well-balanced life is based on knowing one’s limitations, staying healthy (both physically and emotionally), saying “no” when necessary and respecting one’s time which might translate to not pursuing relationships or projects that could potentially disrupt the previously achieved equilibrium.

Receiving the 2020 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching is a huge honor. What does that recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

I am truly honored to be the recipient of this award. This recognition not only confirms my commitment to the excellence and highest quality of the educational services I provide but also instills a high sense of responsibility in me. My goal is to provide original and creative teaching methods and to focus on the intellectual development and success of my students. I strive to continuously refine my skills and to participate in many professional development opportunities. I collaborate with multiple local organizations and am committed to serving our community best to my ability.

You’ve also been recognized with

the 2024 Victor Business Awards and the Ontario County ATHENA Leadership Award. How do you see your work contributing to leadership and empowerment in the arts and beyond?

“Before you can become an authentic leader, you have to know who you are. That’s your true north: your most deeply held beliefs, your values, the principles you lead by, and what inspires you” – Bill George

Authentic leadership is based on vulnerability, honesty, accountability and treating others with compassion. It is exhibited through efficient selfpresentation, clarity of communication, active listening but mainly through the way we treat others. Empathetic leadership is founded on understanding the needs of others and striving to meet them. My goal is to build trust, strong relationships and to support the growth of others. These in turn improve the workplace and classroom environment, sustainability and morale.

Critical, despotic and judgmental “leadership” is short-lived, causes trauma, limits communication and collaboration, and prevents inventiveness or idea sharing. I was a victim of supervisors of this type and still remember the stress and actual physical pain each time I had to work with such individuals.

My intention is to lead by giving an example and to “walk the walk.” I like to embark on collaborative projects and to instill a sense of belonging and meaning in the young generation of students and musicians. I want the young artists and performers to be proud of their work and creativity, to truly own

their inventions and to be confident in presenting them to others. And this is why Young Musicians’ Concerts are so vital and significant to me.

I founded Young Musicians Concerts in 2016. These concerts are organized twice a year and serve as fundraisers for the food pantries at Holy Cross and Our Mother of Sorrows Churches in Rochester, New York which support the less fortunate members of our community. The first mission of the Concerts is to provide a stress-free environment for the performers. The musicians do not have to have their music memorized, nor is the performance order predetermined (no printed programs). I typically begin each recital with my own composition (leading by example) and then invite students to come to the piano and play or sing. Each student introduces themselves and announces the music selections they are about to perform. The second mission of the Concerts is to raise funds for important community outreach programs such as the Food Pantries at Holy Cross and Our Mother of Sorrows Churches. Our last recital was presented on November 9, 2025 at Our Mother of Sorrows Church located at 5000 Mount Read Blvd in Rochester, New York.

Tell us more about Golec Music Studio in Victor. What inspired you to open it, and how is it different from a traditional music school? Music is my life – literally. I make music seven days a week. It is my profession and passion. It fills my life to the fullest. I am very lucky to have chosen a career path that I am enthusiastic about and one that I love. I think about, feel, breathe

“So, after all, music is not made for music’s sake. Rather, music’s value is beyond its formal or aesthetic qualities.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

and share music. The “sharing” part is crucial as music cannot live without being shared. And this is why I founded Golec Music Studio.

The mission of Golec Music Studio is to inspire and nurture the next generation of artists. At the studio, students of all ages and skill levels can explore a diverse range of musical disciplines, from piano and voice to intricate music theory and composition. The studio also offers specialized services, including Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exam preparation, ensuring students are well-equipped for academic challenges.

Beyond traditional lessons, Golec Music Studio provides comprehensive support for college and music theater auditions, helping aspiring performers shine on stage. In addition to a focus on competition readiness, recordings, and transcriptions, my expertise extends to creating unforgettable musical experiences for weddings, celebrations of life, charity and corporate events. At Golec Music Studio, students don’t just learn music; they build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for the art.

Your studio offers everything from piano and voice lessons to music theory, composition, and even exam prep for AP and IB programs. Why is it important to provide such a well-rounded music education?

Understanding the structure of music, its origins, composer’s circumstances and inspirations are the foundations of true and complete musicianship. One could not provide an authentic interpretation of a musical piece without learning

about all the above. As Evelynn Glennie shared in her TED Talk entitled “How to truly listen?” there is so much more to comprehend and to listen for than just the notes on a piece of paper. The science, complexity and beauty of music go far beyond the manuscript. And this is exactly why my students explore music theory, history, and analysis in our sessions. They learn the investigative and critical thinking skills which in turn allow them to become independent and confident.

You’ve helped many students prepare for competitions, college auditions, and performances. What do you find most rewarding about mentoring the next generation of musicians?

My students’ success is a very powerful motivator. As we prepare for auditions, competitions and job interviews, we focus our attention on their goal and think positively to fuel their actions and willingness to work harder. All this leads to a greater productivity and higher success rate. I love hearing about my students’ scholarships, internships and job opportunities. I am proud of their growth and involvement in the community.

You’ve performed all over the world— from Carnegie Hall to concert halls in Poland, Austria, and Spain. Is there one performance or venue that holds special meaning for you?

Yes, absolutely! It was my faculty recital on October 19, 2024. I performed my original compositions set to image installations by local photographers. The photographers in the concert were not aware of the emotional content of each piece and prepared their image

interpretations based solely on the musical landscape of the compositions. At the beginning of the concert my Balbutiendo Piano was looping through the sound system as the audience members arrived. Balbutiendo Piano (which means Stuttering Piano) was a collaborative project I completed with Ed Hallborg a few years ago. It was a semiminimal looping improvisation triptych recorded in Doty Hall. The Steinway piano was processed and manipulated through electronic filtering equipment in “real-time” and fed back to me via headphones. I then responded to it on the piano while the equipment was playing the next sequence. The entire musical material was created on- the-spot since it was an improvisation.

The concert concluded with a prepared piano improvisation. Prepared piano is a technique invented by American composer John Cage in the 1940s. It involves altering the sound of the piano by placing screws, bolts, mutes, rubber, paper and other objects inside the instrument and between the strings. The performer plays on the keyboard, uses the pedals, but also plucks and scrapes the strings, knocks on the soundboard and the frame of the instrument to create out-of-the-box sound which is unique and different from the traditional acoustic landscape of the piano. This was a one-of-a-kind experience for me, and I loved the multimedia collaborative aspect of the performance.

You’ve worked with many worldrenowned musicians like Marvin Hamlisch and Angela Hewitt. What lessons have you learned from collaborating with such icons?

“ Making MUSIC together fosters emotional health and life’s BALANCE, and this is why it is critical to include music EDUCATION and composition in our lives regardless of ABILITY or age. ”

“Music is a very powerful tool that brings us together and promotes trust and relief from stress.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Over the years, I participated in masterclasses and interviews with performers and composers representing diverse musical genres. My takeaway from all these valuable experiences was to always listen, take notes and to keep in mind that there are many ways to look at the same subject. Open-minded attitude allows us to hear the others’ perspective and to learn from their experience and wisdom. It truly is a privilege when a mentor shares their wisdom with the younger generation of artists. Wisdom develops over decades and requires being receptive to new ideas, willingness to listen and eagerness to learn.

Many of your compositions—like Forests, Clouds, and Phobia—are incredibly evocative. Can you tell us about your creative process when composing new works?

It is very simple, actually. I compose at the piano and write by hand. I find handwriting much more meaningful and artistic than the computer program method. My focus is harmony, sonority and color.

As a woman composer and conductor in what has historically been a maledominated field, what challenges have you faced—and how have you overcome them?

Women leaders are continuously facing workplace related challenges based on gender bias, microaggression, limited mentorship opportunities, and even harassment. I am fortunate to work for institutions that foster equality and high ethical standards. I strongly believe in education about discrimination, mentoring young women and speaking up when injustices of any kind occur

in a workplace.

In the past I worked for a supervisor who yelled at women employees, caused them to emotionally break down, and mocked their job performance. I stood up to this individual on several occasions, confronted him and informed him I would not tolerate working in a hostile environment. He in turn retaliated by lowering my salary and increasing my job-related duties. He gave me 30 days to sign the new contract. One week later I interviewed for a new job and said “goodbye” to the toxic environment and retaliatory actions. It was one of the best professional decisions I made. Just recently, a colleague of mine was impersonated online and I received a fake message “from him”. It originated from a foreign platform, was worded in a very formal way, and included a proposal to sell an item. I wrote to this individual’s institutional email address and provided screenshots of the received email to make him aware of this troubling situation. He responded not by thanking me, but rather by “mansplaining”, advising me to “look up” the definition of phishing on Google, and that he hoped “that it was helpful”.

Microaggressions are hostile and offensive and target many aspects of who we are. It is essential to recognize and to appropriately address these behaviors to establish healthy and safe boundaries. There are several publications that provide ideas and strategies on how to deal with and how to respond to microaggressions. I highly recommend Harvard Business Review and their books on leadership and workplace environment dynamics. My favorite ones are “Confidence”,

“Empathy”, “Resilience”, “Happiness” and “Mindfulness”.

You’ve performed both as a solo artist and in collaboration with choirs, orchestras, and other musicians. Do you prefer one over the other, and why? I enjoy both! But I find more meaning in making music together as it develops strong interpersonal bonds between the members of the ensemble. It fosters connection, unity, shared goals, teamwork and empathy. Collaborative music making brings joy and stimulates the release of endorphins.

Music is a very powerful tool that brings us together and promotes trust and relief from stress. Several of my students admitted that music sessions are a form of therapy for them. Music is an escape from their daily stresses, anxieties and troubles. They enter a safe and positive world of artistry and creativity, even if it is only for one hour a week.

What role do you believe music plays in healing and community connection, especially in today’s world?

The need to belong and to be accepted is one of the most powerful human needs and desires. Social connection and togetherness are key factors in establishing happy and healthy lives. The world of social media and unrealistic expectations of perfection cause anxiety, depression and loneliness. Replacing genuine in-person relationships and interactions with the online ones causes the feeling of emptiness and exclusion to most. Making music together fosters emotional health and life’s balance, and this is why it is critical to include music education and composition in our lives regardless of ability or age.

“ I am fortunate to work for institutions that foster equality and high ethical standards. I strongly believe in education about discrimination, mentoring young women and speaking up when injustices of any kind occur in a workplace.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

You’ve been part of the Rochester and Upstate New York arts community for many years. How do you see the local music scene evolving, and what excites you most about its future?

Rochester music scene is vibrant and highly diverse. We are lucky to have multiple music organizations and festivals in our area. There are concerts, recitals, and charity events offered each week in this region. I am very hopeful about the number of local fundraising efforts in our community. Charity initiatives bring out our goodness and I like to focus on them. By sharing our time, talent and treasure we provide essential resources to those in need, advocate for issues like equality, affordable housing, safer society, promote understanding and acceptance, and teach the children and teens how to treat others and how to express empathy towards all the members of our community.

So, after all, music is not made for music’s sake. Rather, music’s value is beyond its formal or aesthetic qualities. It fosters the sense of community and serves as a practical tool for expression, individual development, and promotes emotional well-being.

What advice would you give to young musicians—especially women—who dream of building a career in music or the arts?

Stay strong and never give up! Share your ideas with trusted mentors and ask for their advice. Collaborate with other professionals even if they are not in your field. Such collaborations will broaden your horizons and will stretch your abilities, Brainstorming can bring some meaningful breakthroughs. Never

doubt your abilities or question the worthiness of your projects.

Yes – there will be pushbacks, and you might be rejected on several occasions, but big ideas are worth the time and hard work. There will be unpleasant people who cross your path. Eliminate or at least reduce your time around them. Focus your attention and energy on those who support you and who do not judge you. Strive to recognize the “dead end” relationships in both private and professional life as soon as possible and center your time and energy around meaningful projects which can positively impact our community. If you have any music or fundraising ideas, please reach out to me.

When you reflect on your journey— from a young girl composing in Poland to an award-winning educator and performer—what are you most proud of?

I am proud of my heritage and upbringing. I appreciate the Polish history, culture, and the quality of the education. I am lucky to have my parents and my family. Their positive impact has tremendously affected my life and career. Unequivocally, I could not be who I am today without them and their support. Family is everything.

What has been the most transformative moment of your career so far?

Every year of my life brings new experiences and transformations. I could not pinpoint one life event that changed my path, but rather I see it as a domino effect – one small event or decision triggers a chain reaction of positive consequences. “Domino effect”

is used in psychology and it describes how one small change in behavior can make a huge and positive change in one’s life overtime. It can be applied to habit formation with a small and manageable action that creates momentum which will cause meaningful shifts in one’s life. To me, the momentum of life is what matters the most. Setting daily goals and consistency will create a snowballing force toward growth and success.

Who has been your greatest mentor or source of inspiration, both personally and professionally?

Unquestionably my parents - Alicja and Dariusz Golec. They are extraordinary role models when it comes to morality, relationship and marriage equality, high standards, work ethic, empathy, fair treatment of others, and emotional intelligence.

I am beyond thankful to them for instilling in me strong moral principles. They provided me with a moral compass that cannot be broken. And now it is my turn to teach my son about the same values.

My parents are two amazing individuals who provided a healthy and balanced home, supported my musical endeavors including moving to another continent to study at the Eastman School of Music and to establish my life here, and showed me how to push the boundaries to always learn and to continuously strive for excellence.

What’s next for you—any upcoming performances, projects, or new compositions you’re especially excited about?

“My students’ success is a very powerful motivator. As we prepare for auditions, competitions and job interviews, we focus our attention on their goal and think positively to fuel their actions and willingness to work harder.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

2025 was a very fruitful year. My course proposal was accepted by the Honors Program at SUNY Geneseo, and I had the opportunity to teach “Psyche, mental illness and musical creativity”. We had two successful Young Musicians’ Concerts and one of them was featured in the local news. Golec Music Studio was a proud sponsor of “Breaking the Silence” Masquerade Ball for Suicide and Mental Health Awareness and the 40th Ontario County ATHENA Leadership Awards Ceremony. I was interviewed by three magazines and now am sharing my story with you. My images were presented at a photo exhibition at the

Image City Gallery in Rochester, New York. In addition, I performed recitals for several local nursing homes.

The 2026 schedule is continuously evolving. My students and I will participate in two Young Musicians’ Concerts (April and November), and Golec Music Studio will sponsor multiple local initiatives. Stay tuned!

Finally, what does being featured as the cover woman for Rochester Woman Online mean to you, and what message do you hope readers take away from your story?

I am deeply humbled by this recognition! I am thankful to Rochester Woman magazine’s editorial team for their interest in my field and professional endeavors. It is empowering to share our local women leaders’ stories and pursuits. Rochester Woman promotes women by acknowledging their community contributions, passions, successes, and by breaking the traditional stereotypes. Many of my own collaborations are a fruit of being a part of this network. Our world needs publications like Rochester Woman.

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WOMAN WHO

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} { WOMEN WHO INSPIRE } YOU ARE ENOUGH.

PROJECT RESTORATIONS

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Reviving a Cultural Landmark

For those who may not be familiar, can you share what PROJECT RESTOURATION is and why this initiative is so significant for the Rochester community?

Linda Glosser (Chief Revenue Officer, Rochester Broadway Theatre League): PROJECT RESTOURATION is the name given to RBTL’s massive restoration project of the historic West Herr Auditorium Theatre. It’s significant in that it recognizes the value of preserving this historic gem, which was built nearly 100 years ago as a grand Masonic Temple, and at the same time, addresses the needs of our modern audiences.

The West Herr Performing Arts Center is such a historic and beloved landmark. What inspired the decision to take on a restoration of this scale?

Linda Glosser: After many years of working toward the goal of building a new Performing Arts Center, a few years ago, several factors converged which allowed us to formulate a plan to acquire and restore the entire building. Up until that point, RBTL owned just the Auditorium Theatre portion of the complex. Among those factors that influenced our decision, first and foremost, the building had been our home for a long time – we really were not anxious to leave it! With the opportunity to purchase the balance of the property, we determined staying and making it better was our best possible choice. We recognized the building’s historical importance and the quality

workmanship and craftsmanship with which it was created. While we could never replicate it, we were lucky enough to find partners in LaBella Associates and Pike Construction who could and who have been able to build on those principles to incredible success. Finally, the crucial partnership with West Herr allowed us to pursue restoration plans almost immediately.

Emily and Stephanie, as two of the women leading this project, what has it meant to you personally and

of it! It’s easy to find inspiration for design in a building with such a strong design aesthetic built into it. It’s not every day you get to work on making your interior environments Art Deco inspired!

Emily Steinbacher (Project Manager, LaBella Associates): For me, as a Project Manager, this has been an amazing project to have been able to work on. I remember going to my first show at RBTL in 8th grade and seeing Phantom of the Opera for the first time, that was truly an experience. I have always loved Broadway and have been to numerous shows throughout the years and now to be able to make an impact on this building that others will enjoy for years to come is something I can’t describe.

professionally to help shape the future of this iconic building?

Stephanie Steinman (Interior Designer, LaBella Associates): As an Interior Designer, I have an immense appreciation for the arts. It’s been exciting to work on the revitalization of such a beautiful historic landmark in a city and neighborhood that emphasizes the importance of the arts, especially at a time when everything is so increasingly impersonal and digital. Professionally, this has been the first project of this type I’ve had the pleasure of working on, and I’ve enjoyed every minute

How are you balancing the need to preserve the theatre’s original 1920s Art Deco charm while introducing modern, state-ofthe-art design elements?

Stephanie Steinman: Designing the interior environments has been a balancing act. The key with historic spaces is that it’s difficult to reproduce the details and some construction methods of the past, so instead of mimicking architectural details, the goal becomes to highlight them through contrast. Luckily for us, the building has been well preserved, especially in lodge spaces such as the Floreano Room. So, some of the greatest impacts we’ve had on modernizing the space have been to take down non-original walls that were constructed in the 1980’s by the previous owner of the

In The Beautiful Cornhill Neighborhood

PHOTOS BY ROBYN BATY PHOTOGRAPHY

{ ARTS IN THE ROC

“It’s been exciting to work on the revitalization of such a beautiful historic landmark in a city and neighborhood that emphasizes the importance of the arts, especially at a time when everything is so increasingly impersonal and digital.”- Stephanie Steinman

building. In doing so, we’ve been able to unveil the historic rooms, and even uncover some hidden gems, such as the 100-year-old original maple hardwood floor by the bar in the new Second Floor Mezzanine Lounge.

What has been one of the most challenging design or architectural aspects of this restoration so far— and how did you overcome it?

Stephanie Steinman: With any old building, there are no shortage of surprises when you start digging into construction. One of the biggest challenges was creating the balcony overlooking the existing Floreano Room from the Second Floor Mezzanine Lounge. From figuring out how to address the ceiling height difference between the two spaces, to working around existing columns, and (for our lucky Structural Engineer, Hillary Nicholas) solving the problem of how to structurally reinforce the infilled floor, our team had many a meeting trying to figure out how to make that design element work. We even had backup plans in our back pocket just in case the first option didn’t work out.

Emily Steinbacher: With this type of building, the biggest challenge is staying true to the history of the building but also making it more of a modern space with more areas for the public to use and enjoy. Working with the team we had, I felt we always had the history of RBTL in the back of our minds, so we worked to have our design complement the existing building instead of fighting with old and new.

The project involves multiple partners, including RBTL, LaBella Associates, and Pike Construction. How has this collaboration enhanced the process and vision?

Stephanie Steinman: Collaboration really is the key to great design. RBTL had a grand vision of how they wanted to transform the Auditorium Theatre into a hub for Performing Arts in Rochester, and we’ve been lucky to work with them to bring their vision to life. From the get-go, we’ve worked with RBTL on master-planning what the building could become along with design choices for the overall aesthetics for the revitalized building moving forward. We’ve looked to Pike throughout the project for their professional input and experience in constructability. A 1920’s Art Deco Building will have its quirks, so being able to work in tandem with the construction team on site to pivot design choices to make them feasible has been essential to project success.

Emily Steinbacher: To what Stephanie said, collaboration is the key to a successful project. I couldn’t have asked for a better team working with Pike. If ever we came upon any issues, and we did, especially with the age of the building and not having full documents. We were all ready to come to the table with solutions to figure out how to keep the project moving forward and keep what our design intent was throughout the process.

Can you talk about the vision behind creating multiple performance spaces within the venue and how

that will transform Rochester’s entertainment scene?

Stephanie Steinman: You can certainly thank RBTL for that vision! Transforming the Auditorium Theatre into a Performing Arts Center is something that lends itself to the building quite easily (it already houses several assembly spaces within its walls), and with proximity to The Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) I believe it will become even more of a hub of creativity, establishing a space for a blooming performing arts community.

Emily Steinbacher: As RBTL CEO, Arnie Rothschild, has said throughout the project, Rochester will be the next hub for the arts. RBTL is creating that with this venue; being able to host all different sizes and types of shows and creating a space for the public to enjoy and want to keep coming to for years to come. This is a bright spot for Rochester and is putting it on the map for New York.

Accessibility and inclusivity are major focuses of Phase One. How is the new design ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the arts experience at the West Herr Performing Arts Center?

Stephanie Steinman: It should come as no surprise that a historic 1920’s building would not be the most accessible of spaces. Though the West Herr Auditorium Theatre did have an ADA Accessible rear entrance, it was difficult to locate. There was nothing really designating it other than a single flat sign above the door.

{ ARTS IN THE ROC }

{ SHIFT+CONTROL } { WOMAN WHO INSPIRES } { WOMEN WHO INSPIRE }

“It’s significant in that it recognizes the value of preserving this historic gem, which was built nearly 100 years ago as a grand Masonic Temple, and at the same time, addresses the needs of our modern audiences.”

It looked like a staff entrance! With our new design, we strove to make it both accessible physically and visually. Now, when you enter through the rear of the building, you know exactly where to go. A new drop-off loop allows for easy entry for guests, an enclosed glass-front vestibule allows for a climate-controlled comfortable area to wait for friends, family, or a ride, and a new, wider corridor to the main lobby lets you know you’re heading in the right direction!

The attention to detail—like restoring the East Main Street steps and revitalizing Cathedral Hall— is remarkable. What role does craftsmanship play in this project’s success?

Stephanie Steinman: We want to make sure we’re honoring the history of the building by examining the craftsmanship of what is already present and trying to match that level of quality in our own design decisions. That’s something that can really only be done by paying attention to those little details. How can we highlight something that’s been around for 100 years? How can we improve the design of a space to make it function better? What materials can I use that would be both functionally and aesthetically appropriate in this type of construction and age of the building? Discovering the answers to these questions and others as we move through the design process helps elevate the quality of the project.

The theatre’s history dates back nearly a century. How are you weaving its story and original design into the new era of the Performing Arts Center?

Stephanie Steinman: I’ve tried to find ways to tie-in or salvage materials existing in the building. Creating a new pass-through by demolishing a wall? Save the original sconces and vintage toilet-room signage so they can find a new home elsewhere in the building. New elevators being installed? Salvage the original 1920’s decorative elevator doors and implement them into the design of the bar in Second Floor Mezzanine Lounge! One of the most enjoyable elements of designing a space like this is looking for new ways to use old materials. It preserves the history of the space but can draw attention to something that may have not been noticed before.

Both of you are women leading in fields that have traditionally been male-dominated. How does it feel to bring your creative and professional voices to a project of this magnitude?

Stephanie Steinman: It certainly feels good to be recognized for the hard work and dedication we’ve put into the work at the West Herr Auditorium Theatre and Performing Arts Center. We’ve been blessed to work with amazing partners like the Team at Pike and RBTL, who genuinely value what Emily and I have brought to the table. I wouldn’t necessarily say that Interior Design as a profession is male-dominated, but it does come with the challenge of breaking through a lens of being under-valued. My job as an Interior Designer is not just picking colors and finishes but fully engaging in the design process with care and consideration for the implementation of universal design principles, ADA accessibility standards, and life-safety

standards. It involves working with the client to best formulate solutions for problems that their current space poses, space-planning and coordinating with other disciplines on accomplishing a collective goal, and seeing construction through to the end, while thinking on your feet when issues inevitably arise. I’m very thankful that the team at Pike and RBTL understand this and that our project team at LaBella also appreciates all the hard work I and my fellow interior designers do.

Emily Steinbacher: I am not sure how to describe how it feels. I have been working in this field for almost 20 years now and women still have an uphill battle to have our voices heard. Most of my projects I have when I am in meetings or on a construction site, I am still the only woman in the room. But to be able to work on this iconic project and with a mostly woman-led team, has only made this experience better. Working with Stephanie, but also our Structural Engineer, Hillary Nichols, and our Civil Engineer, Meghan Friedle, has been great but that is also because of working for LaBella Associates specifically. LaBella has been a great company to work for because we have such diversity in our firm.

What do you hope people feel the first time they walk into the fully restored West Herr Performing Arts Center?

Stephanie Steinman: A sense of awe for the beauty we’ve been able to unveil that’s generally been kept behind closed doors, as well as admiration for the historic details we’ve been able to preserve. I hope they feel welcomed to the space,

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

“My hope for the legacy of PROJECT RESTOURATION is that it provides a true Performing Arts Center in which those connections are honored and nurtured, and that the culture and art created by those within is elevated, fostered, perpetuated for many generations to come.” - Linda Glosser

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

and proud that the teams at RBTL, Pike, and LaBella are working so hard to revitalize a unique and historic piece of Rochester architecture.

RBTL’s mission extends beyond entertainment—it’s about education and community enrichment. How will this project expand those opportunities?

Linda Glosser: By rehabbing spaces within the complex, we can accommodate more programs for greater numbers of students. We can help our neighbors, and long-time tenants, A Magical Journey Thru Stages, with spaces for things like summer camp dining halls. These may seem like small things, but they impact us all in a big way. Our audiences also now have more physical space to enjoy. The addition of the now publicly accessible and gorgeous Floreano Room, and the new Second Floor Mezzanine Lounge invite people to come in, relax, socialize, and enjoy the community and fellowship of others who appreciate live entertainment and cultural events.

Funding and community support play huge roles in making this vision a reality. How can local residents and businesses get involved or contribute?

Linda Glosser: There are lots of ways to help and become part of the community, which is building a stronger, better Performing Arts Center. Visiting our website, WestHerrPAC.org will show people the links to become involved! You can also reach out to us through mail@rbtl.org or on our social media channels with any questions.

We’d love to communicate with you!

Looking ahead to 2030, when the restoration is expected to be complete, what does success look like to you?

Stephanie Steinman: For me, success would look like the West Herr Theatre and Performing Arts Center being able to host all of the great shows and performances that RBTL hopes to bring into the space. I would love to see it flourish as a space that provides greater access to the performing arts for the community.

Emily Steinbacher: Achieving the vision that RBTL has for the space and making it the central spot for the arts for the City of Rochester. A space that people will travel to enjoy the different types of shows and performances that the theatre will have to offer.

Linda Glosser: Success to me looks like a fully restored building where the Rochester community feels welcome and at home. One within which hundreds of events occur each year; and one that provides a place for organizations, groups, and individuals to meet, socialize, and experience public and private events.

Finally, what legacy do you hope PROJECT RESTOURATION will leave for future generations of artists, audiences, and the Rochester community as a whole?

Stephanie Steinman: I hope that with the future completion of PROJECT RESTOURATION, we’ve created an inspiring space that will support and educate those in the community

interested in the performing arts. This city has artistic roots, and I know with this project’s completion we’ll be deepening those roots by creating a community space for aspiring performers, artists, and appreciators of those arts to gather and share in this collective form of human expression.

Emily Steinbacher: Personally, for me is the future experiences that I will have with bringing my daughter to this building and have her know that her mom was a part of this historic project.

Linda Glosser: People’s tastes and preferences change in all things; trends in entertainment and culture evolve and morph like everything else. Look at today, compared to less than a decade ago, people now spend tons of time looking at very tiny screens for entertainment, and do that generally alone. Yet despite that, live theatre, live music, live performances, all which existed in ancient times, still exist and thrive today. I think this happens simply because of the human desire and need to collaborate, create, and experience culture with others –– as artists, as audience members, as patrons. My hope for the legacy of PROJECT RESTOURATION is that it provides a true Performing Arts Center in which those connections are honored and nurtured, and that the culture and art created by those within is elevated, fostered, perpetuated for many generations to come.

Main

A VISION IN GLASS { LEADING THE WAY }

Dr. Jessica Levin Martinez Leads the Corning Museum of Glass into a New Era

As the Corning Museum of Glass (CMoG) approaches its milestone 75th anniversary, the museum stands at a pivotal moment in its history—one defined by innovation, artistry, and a renewed vision for the future. At the helm of this next chapter is Dr. Jessica Levin Martinez, an accomplished leader whose career has spanned some of the world’s most esteemed institutions, including Harvard, the Smithsonian, and Cornell University. Now, as the newly appointed President and Executive Director, Dr. Martinez brings her deep commitment to education, inclusivity, and creative experimentation to one of the Finger Lakes’ most treasured cultural landmarks.

For Dr. Martinez, joining the Corning Museum of Glass is both a professional and personal honor. A longtime admirer of CMoG and resident of the region, she describes the museum’s mission—“to transform how the world understands glass”—as one that deeply resonates with her own philosophy of lifelong learning and creative discovery. With a dynamic vision that bridges art, science, and innovation, she is poised to lead CMoG into an era that celebrates both the material and the meaning behind glass—its beauty, its complexity, and its universal human connection.

as spaces of curiosity, experimentation, and inclusivity—what she describes as “innovation laboratories, not temples.” Her leadership style reflects that belief: open, collaborative, and deeply rooted in education. As she steps into her new role, she aims to expand CMoG’s reach locally and globally, strengthen its ties to the Finger Lakes community, and build new partnerships that elevate the museum’s role as both a world-class destination and a catalyst for creative engagement.

It is an honor to be joining the Corning Museum of Glass as the next President and Executive Director. The Museum’s mission to transform how the world understands glass resonates deeply with me, and I look forward to celebrating this milestone and building on its remarkable legacy.

What first drew you to CMoG, and what excites you most about leading such a world-renowned institution at this moment in its history?

In this exclusive interview with Rochester Woman Online, Dr. Jessica Levin Martinez shares her vision for the Corning Museum of Glass—how she plans to honor its extraordinary legacy, embrace bold new ideas, and continue inspiring generations through the transformative power of glass.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Martinez has championed museums

Congratulations on your new role! How does it feel to be named the next President and Executive Director of the Corning Museum of Glass, especially as the museum approaches its 75th anniversary?

I have been a long-time visitor and admirer of CMoG as someone who lives in this beautiful region. I am eager to continue growing the Museum’s reach alongside CMoG’s expert and creative team. I want all visitors to feel a sense of discovery and inspiration—to learn, to make, and to share new understandings of the art, history and science of glass with the Museum and one another.

You’ve had an incredible career journey — from Harvard and the Smithsonian to Cornell. How have these experiences shaped your leadership style and curatorial vision?

Each chapter of my career has offered invaluable lessons about the impact of cultural institutions and has shaped my leadership style. I am a real champion of museums and foster cultures of creativity and innovation in them by inviting fresh perspectives. My leadership is driven by a commitment to inclusivity and continuous learning, and the curatorial vision of CMoG matches my own,

PHOTOS BY CORNING MUSEUM OF GLASS, DEVAN FLORES & DR MARTINEZ

{ LEADING THE WAY }

“My goal is to inspire curiosity and creativity for all visitors whether through watching a live glassblowing demonstration after exploring the galleries, attending a lecture by an artist-in-residence at The Studio, or spending time immersed in the Rakow Research Library archives.”

conveying both rigor and delight.

CMoG is both an art museum and a scientific institution. How do you plan to continue bridging art, science, and innovation under your leadership? Glass embodies both artistic expression and scientific discovery. My vision is to deepen that dual identity by fostering collaborations between artists and scientists to create experiences that invite visitors to explore glass as a medium of beauty and a tool of innovation.

The museum’s mission is to “transform the way the world understands the art, history, and science of glass.” What does that statement mean to you personally?

Teaching and learning has been vital to my approach in academic and public art museums, and so for me, the Museum’s mission is one of education, of marshalling CMoG’s extraordinary collections and expertise to inspire people to see glass in a new light. CMoG is a joyful place where visitors are invited to learn from artists, scientists, museum professionals, and each other, and that enlivens its mission for all.

You’ve been praised for your “spirit of bold experimentation.” How do you see that influencing your approach to museum programming and visitor engagement at Corning?

My goal is to inspire curiosity and creativity for all visitors whether through watching a live glassblowing demonstration after exploring the galleries, attending a lecture by an artistin-residence at The Studio, or spending time immersed in the Rakow Research

Library archives. I see every corner of CMoG alive with experiments, so that there is something new to experience every time you visit.

At Cornell, you successfully raised over $32 million and expanded curatorial diversity. How do you plan to carry that same momentum into your work at CMoG?

I am grateful for all that friends of CMoG have generously made possible for the Museum and its visitors. I look forward to meeting supporters near and far who share a passion for glass and the Museum’s mission, and to envision together the impact we can achieve. Working with collections from around the world will help us to deepen relationships across our region while bringing to Corning the knowledge of so many artists, scholars, curators, scientists, and collectors everywhere.

CMoG is known for its hands-on visitor experiences, like glassblowing demonstrations and Make Your Own Glass workshops. How do you see these interactive programs evolving in the years ahead?

Hands-on experiences are at the heart of what makes CMoG so special. In the years ahead, I see these programs continuing to evolve in ways that keep them fresh, engaging, and accessible for all visitors. We’ll ensure that interactive learning remains a cornerstone of the CMoG experience, with a belief that making and knowing are closely linked.

The Studio at CMoG has become a hub for glass artists globally. What role do you believe artists and makers play in

shaping the museum’s future identity? Artists are at the center of CMoG’s identity, from the collections in the galleries to the archival documents of glass innovators in the Rakow Research Library to the global community that thrives in The Studio spaces. I view artists as co-creators of the Museum’s identity, helping us tell stories that resonate across cultures, generations, and experiences.

Accessibility and inclusion have become major themes in your previous leadership roles. How do you plan to make CMoG even more welcoming and inclusive for all audiences? CMoG has been doing exceptional work around accessibility and inclusion, and I’m energized by the opportunity to continue to expand that work by investing in programs that make the museum experience welcoming for visitors of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

As you succeed Dr. Karol Wight, how do you plan to honor her legacy while also bringing your own vision and innovation to the museum?

Karol’s leadership has been transformative, and I deeply respect her brilliant contributions to CMoG and the broader arts community. I especially look forward to bringing her commitment to artists and to glassmaking education into the future while introducing newly relevant ways to expand the Museum’s reach and influence.

Your background in global art and interdisciplinary teaching is extensive. How might you incorporate crosscultural and educational partnerships into CMoG’s programming?

{ LEADING THE WAY }

“I want all visitors to feel a sense of discovery and inspiration—to learn, to make, and to share new understandings of the art, history and science of glass with the Museum and one another.”

Glass is universal, and I want to leverage that universality through institutional partnerships with museums, foundations, and schools, inviting multiple perspectives into our exhibitions and educational programming. This includes collaborative research, artist residencies, and curriculum development that connects glass to global history, technology, and design, among other lines of inquiry.

You’ve done important work investigating Nazi-looted art and advocating for ethical stewardship in museums. How does that experience shape your philosophy as a museum leader today?

Ethical stewardship is about care and a deep sense of responsibility not only to objects but to people and ideas. My experience investigating looted art in Eastern Europe and in Central Africa has shaped my approach to working with transparency and respect as we share, interpret, and study collections entrusted to the Museum.

that connect us all.

The Corning Museum of Glass is not only a Finger Lakes treasure but a global destination. How do you plan to elevate its international profile even further?

Amplifying CMoG’s global presence begins with sharing what makes the Museum extraordinary. By showcasing the world-class collection through traveling exhibitions, enhancing digital

to the past. CMoG, with its unique material focus, is naturally positioned to invite visitors to be active participants in discovery. From galleries and conservation labs to studios and libraries, every space can become a platform for exploring new questions together.

What are some of your short- and long-term goals for the museum as you step into this role in 2026?

In the short term, I’ll be listening intentionally to our staff, community, and friends of CMoG, both longtime and new, to understand the Museum’s history and present moment. Long-term, I want to expand our regional and global partnerships, advance sustainability initiatives, and create programs that position the Museum as a leader in interdisciplinary innovation. Ultimately, I want CMoG to be a place where creativity and curiosity thrive.

What do you believe makes glass such a powerful medium for storytelling, creativity, and human connection?

Glass is a versatile and ubiquitous material that spans centuries and cultures. It so often illuminates the lives of individual artists, the aspirations of communities, and histories of scientific advancement. Looking closely at glass reveals stories of artistic expression, resilience and innovation, and these are the stories

initiatives to bring our collections and expertise to audiences everywhere, and positioning Corning as a destination for cultural tourism, we can connect the Museum experience to the beauty and richness of the Finger Lakes region.

You’ve often described museums as “innovation laboratories, not temples.” Can you expand on that philosophy and how it applies to the modern museum experience?

Museums are for everyone, and I believe they should be dynamic spaces where ideas are tested, not static monuments

Finally, as a woman leading one of the most prestigious art institutions in the world, what message do you hope to send to the next generation of women in arts and cultural leadership?

I hope my leadership shows that women are at the forefront of shaping our most beloved cultural institutions. My message to the next generation would be to lead with curiosity, courage, and kindness. The arts need your voice and your vision.

DISNEY ON ICE 2026

EMBRACE THE MAGIC OF FAMILY IN AN ADVENTURE THAT WILL SPARK YOUR IMAGINATION IN DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS FROZEN & ENCANTO

The only place to see the Madrigal family live! Coming to Rochester from January 1-4, 2026

Rochester, NY – Disney On Ice invites families to step inside the magical adventures of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen, the #1 Animated feature of all time, and Disney Animation’s Encanto, the 2022 Academy Award®, BAFTA®, and Golden Globe® Award winner for Best Animated Feature, as they come to life like never before. This adventure on ice transports fans into two of the most popular Disney films as audiences can sing-along to their favorite songs while embracing world-class ice skating, aerial acrobatics and more when Disney On Ice presents Frozen & Encanto skates into Rochester, playing from January 1-4 at Blue Cross Arena.

After a very Frozen adventure, audiences will journey to a vibrant town in the mountains of Colombia where they will meet the Madrigals, an extraordinary family who live in a magical casita in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Mirabel tells the tale of her amazing family and her journey to save the casita, her enchanted family home, alongside her sisters: Isabela, whose perfection radiates with her ability to make plants grow and flowers bloom with every step, and Luisa, with the gift of super strength that she uses to help her village move buildings and reroute

Friday, January 2 at 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM

Saturday, January 3 at 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM Sunday, January 4 at 11:00 AM & 3:00 PM

WHERE: Blue Cross Arena – 1 War Memorial Square, Rochester, NY 14614

TICKETS: Family-friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in person at the venue box office.

Audiences will see Anna, Elsa, Mirabel, and the Madrigal family live, as well as fan favorites Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald, Goofy, and many more.

Narrating the captivating story of Frozen is Olaf, the lovable snowman who likes warm hugs and all things summer. Astounding ice-skating transports families to Arendelle to be a part of Anna’s adventure to find Elsa, whose icy powers unleashed an eternal winter. Kristoff and Sven take fans along as they encounter wintry conditions in a race to bring back summer.

rivers. Fans can witness Tia Pepa, who can control the weather with her emotions; her husband Felix; their daughter Dolores, with her gift to hear; and Bruno, the mysterious and misunderstood Madrigal family member whose visions foretold the future.

In the end, audiences will learn that everyone has their own gifts, magical or not, and being true to yourself and loving those around you is what makes you special. YOU are the magic!

WHEN: Thursday, January 1 at 4:00 PM

*Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand.

“Family Fun with Elsa and Mirabel” Character Experience

Glide and dance your way into the worlds of Frozen & Encanto with music and dancing alongside Elsa and Mirabel, celebrating the amazing gifts that make each of us unique. Enhance your Disney On Ice show ticket with a preshow Character Experience that includes games, storytelling, crafting and interactive time with Elsa and Mirabel. Bring your personal device for photo opportunities. NOTE: Each guest (ages 2 and up) must have both a Character Experience ticket and a Disney On Ice show ticket to attend; children must be accompanied by an adult.

For specific Rochester local event information, please visit: www.disneyonice. com/frozen-and-encanto/rochester-nyblue-cross-arena

Follow Disney On Ice social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. Subscribe to the Disney On Ice YouTube Channel at www.youtube.

{ EAT THE COOKIE }

NOVEMBER REIGN

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY JESSICA FABUS CHENG I PHOTOS BY IRIDIUM PHOTOGRAPHY

A Month to Rule on Your Terms

Picture this: the world outside is racing toward the holidays, inboxes are overflowing, and somehow you’re expected to sparkle through it all. But what if this year, you ruled differently? What if November became the month you reigned not by doing more… but by doing it with meaning and with intention?

Because maybe the crown isn’t about control - it’s about calm. Maybe your power this season lives in showing up with joy, keeping your rhythm with consistency, and offering yourself the kind of grace you usually save for others.

Pull up a chair, pour something warm, and let’s talk about what it really means to reign in November: cozy, confident, and completely on your own terms!

NOVEMBER REIGN: HOW TO RULE YOUR LIFE WITH JOY, CONSISTENCY & GRACE

Finding Power in the Pause

If October was the warm-up, November is the moment the music slows down a little and you start to hear your own heartbeat again. Between the pumpkin-spice rush and the impending holiday go-gogo, many of us feel the tug to speed up just when our souls crave the opposite. The quiet of November offers something rare: a chance to reign differently.

To reign isn’t to dominate every todo list or outshine everyone in the room. It’s to lead your days with clarity and kindness, to cultivate a rhythm that honors joy, consistency, and grace. Think of it as trading hustle for harmony.

The Pillar of Joy: Rediscovering Delight in Small Rituals

Joy often hides in plain sight: the steam rising from your first cup of coffee (trust me, I know!), the playlist that turns chores into impromptu choreography with the kids or solo, the smell of something baking...just because.

Research from the Journal of Positive Psychology shows that people who practice “micro-moments of joy”simple sensory pleasures - report up to 25 percent higher daily satisfaction.

Your challenge this month? Try a joy ritual. Maybe it’s brewing your own latte each morning or lighting a candle while answering emails. The goal isn’t productivity - it’s increasing your presence.

Try this: write or say one line each night starting with “Today, joy looked like…” You’ll be amazed how quickly gratitude multiplies when you start naming it.

The Pillar of Consistency — Graceful Discipline, Not Grind

Consistency is queen energy in motion. It’s the steady heartbeat behind every goal, the quiet follow-

through that builds trust with yourself. But consistency doesn’t mean rigidity - it’s rhythm.

Think of the trees in November: they shed, rest, and yet still remain rooted. That’s your model. Instead of “I have to post every day,” try “I get to show up meaningfully three times this week.” Small, sustainable steps outperform burnout every time.

How interesting is it that stats from the American Psychological Association show that habit stacking - pairing a new action with an existing routine - increases long-term follow-through by 40 percent. Wow!

Recently I’ve been using this mental planning system: Plan → Act → Rest → Reflect → Repeat. I’m a creative soul and often have a barrage of ideas. Before, I became overwhelmed by my thoughts, but now I’ve been working on getting them into “categories” using the planning system above. (More on this in the coming months!) It’s helped me be more consistent and it honors how my unique mind works.

The Pillar of Grace - The Art of Letting Yourself

Be

Grace is the secret ingredient that makes joy and consistency sustainable. It’s forgiving yourself for the undone laundry or the skipped workout. It’s remembering that worth isn’t earned by exhaustion.

When you treat yourself with grace, you model it for others. You give permission for rest, reflection, and

{ EAT THE COOKIE }

“The woman who leads with calm presence leaves a stronger legacy than the one who burns out chasing perfection.”

Here’s a reflection prompt: “Where can I give myself more grace this week?”

Cozy Queen Energy in Practice

This month, bring your inner queen to the everyday:

In your space: Add textures that soothe. Try: cashmere throws, candles, warm neutrals with touches of cranberry or gold.

In your routine: Choose one comforting recipe or drink ritual to repeat weekly.

In your mindset: Start each morning by asking, “How can I reign with joy today?” This has changed my mindset in a positive way.

Being a queen is not about grandeur, but groundedness. The woman who leads with calm presence leaves a stronger legacy than the one who burns out chasing perfection. Your Invitation to Reign

November isn’t asking you to reinvent yourself; it’s inviting you to return to yourself. To honor your own seasons just as the world changes outside your

Lead your life like it’s already royal, because it is!

Joy is your crown, consistency your scepter, and grace the soft light that follows you everywhere.

If this message resonates, pour another cup, sister! And don’t forget to check out my blog here: www.eatthecookie. blog and my IG @bestwithjessliving. Happy Holidays!

KEEPING A PROMISE

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

The Story Behind 13Thirty Cancer Connect

When 19-year-old Melissa Spiker passed away in June 2000, she left behind more than memories — she left a mission. Diagnosed with cancer as a teenager, Melissa found herself caught in what her mother, Lauren Spiker, later called “the great divide” — too old for pediatric programs, yet too young for adult care. There were no age-appropriate resources or spaces for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer, no peers who truly understood what she was going through.

Still, Melissa lived her short life with incredible courage and purpose — attending college classes during chemotherapy, staying active on an exercise bike in her hospital room, and continuing to learn, laugh, and create. Just days before her passing, she asked her mom to make a promise: “If you’ve learned anything from me through all of this, do something with it — something to make a difference, to make things better.”

From that promise, Melissa’s Living Legacy Teen Cancer Foundation was born — now known as 13Thirty Cancer Connect, a vibrant community dedicated to helping adolescents and young adults with cancer live their very best lives today.

What began as a mother’s tribute to her daughter’s strength has grown into a movement that empowers thousands. Through peer programs, expressive arts, wellness workshops, and community partnerships, 13Thirty Cancer Connect bridges the gap between pediatric and adult oncology care, offering young people

the belonging, support, and understanding they so often struggle to find elsewhere.

Melissa’s legacy continues to shine in every smile, every friendship, and every moment of connection that happens within the 13Thirty community — a living reminder that purpose, love, and courage can change the world.

Can you share the story of how 13Thirty Cancer Connect was founded and how Melissa’s life and legacy inspired the creation of the organization?

Melissa, the daughter of our Founder, Lauren Spiker, was 19 years old when she died in June 2000. At that time, there was little recognition of the unique challenges facing adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. LIke 90,000 other AYAs diagnosed each year in the United States, Melissa fell into the “great divide” between our existing healthcare systems - pediatric and adult medicinewith no resources or support for her age group. Despite the gap, Melissa managed to have a full, albeit short, life, attending part-time classes at the University of Rochester while undergoing aggressive chemotherapy, staying physically active with an exercise bike in her hospital room, maintaining contact with her friends, and even learning how to crochet in between class assignments.

Even after her second relapse, with all treatment options failed, Melissa chose to experience college away from home at the University of Pennsylvania to which she had been accepted just before diagnosis. For eight weeks, except for the fact that she was dying, she was almost a normal college student. After returning home, knowing that her time was very

limited, she enrolled in a pottery class at the Memorial Art Gallery, continuing to live with purpose, writing profound prose and poetry in her journals, saying goodbye to her family and friends in a way meaningful to her, and talking with her parents about what she wanted them to do before and after she died. Just three nights before she died, Lauren told her how proud she was of how she had lived her life and thanked her for all she had learned from her. “A lot of people say those kinds of things to me,” she said, “but I’m not sure that everyone will do anything differently because of it.” And then, she asked her mom to make a promise. “If you’ve learned anything from me through all of this, do something with it,” she said. “Something to make a difference, to make things better.” And thus was born Melissa’s Living Legacy Teen Cancer Foundation, our original name.

The name “13Thirty” is unique — what does it represent and why was it chosen to define your mission? Our original name, Melissa’s Living Legacy Teen Cancer Foundation, was changed to 13thirty Cancer Connect in 2015 when we expanded our services to include young adults, as well as teenagers. It reflects the age group we now support - adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer between the ages of 13-39.

Melissa’s courage and determination clearly continue to inspire so many. How does her spirit live on through the programs and community you’ve built? Melissa’s legacy was showing us how to live with purpose, to derive meaning from even the smallest task, and to not

“ Melissa, the daughter of our Founder, Lauren Spiker, was 19 years old when she died in June 2000. At that time, there was little recognition of the unique challenges facing adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. ”

“Our original name, Melissa’s Living Legacy Teen Cancer Foundation, was changed to 13thirty Cancer Connect in 2015 when we expanded our services to include young adults, as well as teenagers.”

let circumstance deter our dreams. We strive to infuse that perspective into every program. Our members have a strong sense of “belonging” in our 13thirty community, where fears are faced with friends, and successes are celebrated together. Everyone is welcomed with open arms into a space where it is safe to say and feel things that can’t be acknowledged anywhere else.

What were some of the biggest gaps in care and support for adolescents and young adults with cancer that 13Thirty set out to address?

Lost in the “great divide” between pediatric and adult medicine, AYAs have very unique challenges as a result of the many life transitions and developmental milestones unique to this age group including: loss of independence, diminished self-esteem and self-efficacy, debilitating isolation, and interrupted life plans that affect school, career, and long-term personal relationships. Additionally, they continue to lag in survival improvement relative to other age groups. Those who do survive are at high risk for recurrence and secondary cancers as well as serious and complex late effects of earlier treatment. The psychosocial and physical side effects of cancer persist long after treatment has ended. Reintegrating back to “normal” life is difficult without a peer support network with whom to share the common experience.

Additionally, because AYA oncology is a relatively new discipline, there are limited healthcare providers who have been trained to recognize and treat the unique needs of this segment of the cancer population.

How does your organization help bridge the divide between pediatric and adult cancer care for young patients?

13thirty closes this divide by offering a dedicated space tailored to the specific needs of teens and young adults, where they can connect with peers their own age who genuinely understand.

In addition to our AYA programs, our work goes beyond the walls of 13thirty. Our provider workshops ensure that healthcare professionals and educators understand the unique challenges facing their AYA patients and students. A wide range of community advocacy efforts put a spotlight on this population and the services provided by 13thirty Cancer Connect.

What are some of the emotional, physical, and social challenges that AYAs (Adolescents and Young Adults) commonly face during their cancer journey?

AYAs can face a wide range of physical changes due to their diagnosis such as weight loss or gain, scarring, even amputations, all of which deeply impact their sense of self. But the lesser known challenges are often emotional and social. There’s never a good time to get cancer, but it is especially difficult for teens and young adults who are just beginning to build their identities, education, careers, and family plans. Suddenly, all of that is thrown into question.

With so many unknowns, feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression are some of the most commonly seen challenges in this age group. Their unique struggles don’t end there, but they do become easier to carry the moment they walk

through our doors and realize they are not alone in these changes and challenges.

How do your programs — both inperson and virtual — help young people navigate feelings of isolation and loss of independence after a diagnosis? At the heart of what we do are our peer support programs. Expressive arts, fitness and nutrition, and just-for-fun social activities give our members an entry way to open up the conversation about their cancer in an understanding and supportive environment. For example, social isolation, one of the most difficult challenges for AYAs to manage, is erased when they find a community of others ready to rally around them. Feelings of scanxiety and depression are validated and healed together. They are able to start to rebuild what was lost and discover new possibilities surrounded by lifelong support.

13Thirty Cancer Connect offers a community unlike any other. Can you describe what it feels like for new members when they first join and realize they’re not alone?

When a new member walks through our doors, it’s often the first time they’re no longer the only one in the room with cancer. That moment by itself is powerful. A wave of relief washes over them as they realize they’re not alone in what is often an incredibly isolating experience. They’re welcomed by others who truly understand their unique journey and find a community that helps them face the difficult days with more ease and confidence knowing they have a support system to fall back on. This sense of connection can also ease anxieties, as members share tips and tricks

“Melissa’s legacy was showing us how to live with purpose, to derive meaning from even the smallest task, and to not let circumstance deter our dreams.”

for managing treatment side effects and find hope in seeing others their age living full, “normal” lives despite their cancer. Beyond patients, how do you support the families and caregivers who are walking this journey alongside their loved ones? Throughout the year, we host programs that invite the whole family into the center, such as our New Year’s Brunch, Summer Family Picnic, and Journeys, our Annual Celebration of Living. We also encourage our members to bring a friend, family member, or caregiver to any of our monthly programs. In addition to these family events, we offer Parent and Bereaved Parent programming, giving parents the opportunity to connect over their shared experiences, without their children present, and to express the feelings they may hide while supporting the AYA in their life.

The organization began as “Melissa’s Living Legacy Teen Cancer Foundation.” What inspired the transition to 13Thirty Cancer Connect, and how has the mission evolved over time?

Because Melissa was a teenager when she was diagnosed, our early focus was on that demographic. However, as time passed, members whom we first met as teens were now young adults with different, but no less difficult, challenges. Building on our strong foundation, we felt able to do more and in 2015, expanded our services to include young adults, both newly diagnosed and young adult survivors. Our rebranding and name change to 13thirty Cancer Connect represents the age group we now support - adolescents and young adults (AYAs) between the ages of 13-39. The mission, however,

remains the same. To help AYAs with cancer live their very best lives - TODAY!

Can you tell us more about the partnerships and collaborations you have — whether with hospitals, other nonprofits, or the broader Rochester community?

Strategic collaborations have always been an integral part of our approach beginning with our earliest partnership with the Children’s Oncology Group, the world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood and adolescent cancer research. This partnership propelled us nationally. Since then, we have established collaborative relationships with major hospital systems in Rochester and Syracuse where we have physical centers, as well as with many other hospitals across the United States who have used our resources. We have also collaborated with other national nonprofits to codesign and deliver clinician workshops. In Syracuse, we initiated the Central New York Cancer Alliance to share resources and best practices, as well as being instrumental in establishing the Greater Rochester Cancer Alliance with the same objective. Most recently, we have collaborated with our academic research partners at URMC to study the needs of AYAs with cancer in our community.

How has awareness about the “early-onset cancer epidemic” among young adults impacted your organization’s focus or the types of programs you now offer?

The alarming increase in early-onset cancer highlights an even greater need for the services and resources offered by 13thirty Cancer Connect. Early research data point to lifestyle behaviors

as contributors to this surge in young adult cancer, making our fitness and nutrition programs very important. AYAs are also experiencing many mental health issues pointing to an increased need for mental health professionals trained to care for AYA patients. We will also be developing new programs about prevention - smoking and vaping cessation, limited sun exposure, as examples.

What role does peer connection play in healing and empowerment for your members?

Building a new peer community of others who understand the shared experience is at the core of everything we do at 13thirty Cancer Connect. The need to feel a sense of belonging is well-documented for the general population. For AYAs with cancer, it is critically important. At 13thirty, because cancer is the common denominator, not the differentiator, the barrier of being ‘different’ is immediately erased allowing room to develop confidence, resilience, and self-advocacy.

You’ve mentioned that 13Thirty is more than just support — it’s about living, connecting, and thriving. How do you bring that philosophy to life in your daily work?

At 13thirty, we bring that philosophy to life by constantly collaborating and staying connected not only with our members, but with the wider cancer community that supports them. We work closely with local hospitals and other cancer organizations to ensure we’re aware of the most up-to-date information about AYAs needs and that they are always part of the conversation.

“At the heart of what we do are our peer support programs. Expressive arts, fitness and nutrition, and just-for-fun social activities give our members an entry way to open up the conversation about their cancer in an understanding and supportive environment.”

We’re always thinking about how we can grow and improve. Whether it’s updating programs based on member feedback, exploring new evidence-based practices, or seeking out community partners who can introduce their own skills and experiences, we’re committed to helping AYAs live, connect, and thrive in ways that feel meaningful and relevant to them and their cancer. Our programs are all about meeting our members where they are and building something even stronger together.

What are some of your favorite success stories or moments that truly capture what 13Thirty Cancer Connect is all about?

Though I could tell hundreds of stories, here are two. One of our early teen members, Brittany, was diagnosed with bone cancer. Prior to her diagnosis, she was a star athlete at her high school, so it was devastating to hear that she would likely never run again. Determined to prove her doctors wrong, Brittany was one of the first to sign up for our 12-week fitness program. She worked diligently to improve her strength, endurance, and flexibility, especially in the leg that now had a steel rod, artificial knee, and ugly scarring as a result of a skin graft complication. Not only did Brittany proudly compete in our 5K race, she ran across the finish line triumphantly. I will never forget the day she strode into the Center wearing short pants for the first time, confidently wearing her scars as badges of courage.

Another story that truly captures the spirit of 13thirty was an evening when a new member, Mark, attended his first program. Our Program Coordinator

whisked him into the program room with other members while I met with all four of his parents. Suddenly, while we were talking, Mark’s dad asked us all to stop talking and listen. “To what?” I asked. “Listen to the kids in the other room. They’re all laughing.” Because laughter was not something unique at 13thirty, I was puzzled, until Mark’s dad said, “That’s the first time I’ve heard my son laugh since he was diagnosed.” I think that says it all. At 13thirty, our members develop confidence, self-esteem, and strength enough to endure what would cripple many..

How can the Rochester community — and readers of Rochester Woman Online — get involved to support your mission, whether through volunteering, events, or donations?

There are multiple ways the community can support the work we do here at 13thirty Cancer Connect. Throughout the year, we host a variety of community fundraising events which are great ways to get out and create a positive impact on the local community. These events can be found on our website under the fundraising tab. If you are a young professional, a great way to get involved is to join our Associate Board. Made up of over 30 local young adults from a variety of professions, the Associate Board is the first point of contact for volunteers and it’s a great way to connect with other young professionals in the area. Lastly, if you have any skills within expressive arts, fitness, or nutrition and would be interested in offering your services, please reach out as we’d love to discuss the possibilities of partnering on a program together. And of course, donations are always welcome either

on-line or with a check made out to 13thirty Cancer Connect. Perhaps most importantly, we encourage all who hear about 13thirty to tell others that we are a community resource.

Looking ahead, what are your biggest goals for the future of 13Thirty Cancer Connect — both locally and nationally? No one has ever accused us of thinking small, so our goals are big and bold. One long-term goal is to establish 13thirty Cancer Connect centers throughout New York State and beyond. We are currently building a network of local, multi-sector providers who have participated in our training programs and from whom our AYAs will receive ‘wrap-around’ services designed to meet their unique challenges. On a national level, we will continue to set the pace for AYA supportive care with innovative resources accessible to AYAs anywhere in the world. Next year, 2026, is our 25th and we’re already planning for our next 25 years!

Finally, if Melissa could see what 13Thirty has become today, what do you think she would say about the impact her story continues to make? Melissa was never one to boast about herself, so she would undoubtedly be surprised that literally thousands of people know her name and her story 25 years after her death. But I think she would also be gratified to know that because she lived, others are now finding purpose and meaning in their own lives, just as she had. And maybe she’d say, “Thanks for keeping your promise, Mom.”

Mescolata

This Holiday Season and book your next vacation for 2026!

ROC VETERANS: BUILDING CONNECTIONS AND COMMUNITY

In the heart of the Finger Lakes, a transformative initiative is making waves for local Veterans and their families. Roc Veterans was born out of the VA Finger Lakes’ Mental Health Summit, driven by a profound realization: while resources for service members, Veterans, and their families are abundant, they often remain isolated and out of reach. This collaborative effort emerged to bridge those gaps, fostering a more connected and supportive community.

At its core, Roc Veterans is dedicated to ensuring that Veterans can easily access the help and services they need. The team works tirelessly to cut through the red tape, offering a streamlined, user-friendly platform that highlights a wide array of programs and events. By promoting social connection, Roc Veterans aims to combat the high rates of loneliness and isolation among Veterans, which research shows can significantly impact mental and physical health.

of support and reliability. Feature

Can you tell us how Roc Veterans was first created and what inspired the formation of this collaborative effort?

Roc Veterans was founded at the VA Finger Lakes’ Mental Health Summit a couple years ago. One takeaway from the event was there are so many wonderful resources in

suicide locally.

For those who may not know, how would you describe the main mission and purpose behind Roc Veterans? We are dedicated to serving our community. We strive to put information in the hands of Veterans in a way that is easy to find and utilize. If a Veteran is struggling with transportation for examplethat’s already stressful! The last thing they need is the additional stress of trying to dig through a sea of information to find a program that can help. We want to cut through the red tape for them and get them connected directly to the organizations that can provide some assistance. There is an incredible variety of programming available for Veterans and their families in the Finger Lakes region. We want to ensure all Veterans are thriving and utilizing all the services available to them.

Through the power of collaboration, Roc Veterans thrives by partnering with local volunteers, Veteran Service Organizations, and community members. This network creates a robust, ever-evolving resource for Veterans, ensuring that no one has to navigate these challenges alone. From a comprehensive website featuring a shared regional calendar of events to verifying and vetting information for accuracy, Roc Veterans is a beacon

the Finger Lakes for service members, Veterans, and their families (SMVF), but things felt ‘siloed’. Organizations could do more to work together and Veterans weren’t always aware of the resources available to them. Our goal was to help resolve those issues. Also-there is a lot of research that shows social connection can be a powerful protective factor against suicide so we want to create a more connected Veteran community as part of a bigger effort to reduce

We also believe strongly in the power of social connection. Research shows that lack of connection can have dramatic implications for our health; including increased risk of depression, suicide, and many physical ailments. This is particularly a concern for the Veteran population. A recent study revealed a high prevalence of loneliness in US Veterans; 56% of Veterans report experiencing loneliness at least sometimes (including 19.7% reporting feeling lonely often). These groups were 3- and 12-times more likely to expierence suicidal ideation,

{ THE HEART OF ROC VETERANS }

“Our website is for all Veterans in our region. We wanted to be clear that everyone deserves to have a fulfilling life with their needs met.”

respectively, compared with those who reported hardly ever feeling lonely. Our team works hard to spread the word about the many events for Veterans in our area as a way to combat social isolation.

You emphasize being communitypowered. How has the involvement of local volunteers and Veteran Service Organizations shaped your work?

Roc Veterans thrives with collaboration. No one person or entity could possibly know all the Veteran events and resources in our region. We rely on our numerous partners and Veterans themselves to send us information. We encourage people to let us know if we’ve missed a resource, or if their Legion is hosting an event. The more we work together-the stronger this resource is.

The Roc Veterans website is such a valuable resource. What kinds of services, programs, and connections can Veterans and their families expect to find there?

On our landing page, you’ll see a shared regional calendar that can be sorted by county making it easy to see all the wonderful events the Finger Lakes region has to offer. The calendar is our most popular feature. We are currently averaging about 60 events a week specifically for Veterans and their families. There is truly something for everyone to participate in. Our ‘Resources’ page includes all sorts of information categorized by topic area including legal services, women Veteran resources, caregiver support, and basic needs such as food and clothing. We have lists of Veteran groups organized by county and township, lists of the local organizations that provide services to Veterans with descriptions of what they do. We even

have pages highlighting recreation opportunities, Veteran discounts and so much more. We really encourage people to give us a visit! Find us at www. rocveterans.org (we’re also on Facebook and Instagram).

How does your team go about verifying and vetting the information that’s shared on your site to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness?

Accuracy is something that is very important to us. We meet monthly to discuss any updates that need to be made to the website and annually we go through the entire site page by page and review every word. As we get information about new events or programs-we go to the source and verify accuracy before posting. When available, our calendar includes links directly to the organization hosting the event so people get the information straight from the source. Our team are all Veterans themselves or family members of Veterans so this is meaningful work to us and we want to get it right.

You mention being non-political and without financial interests — why was that such an important principle in building Roc Veterans?

Our website is for all Veterans in our region. We wanted to be clear that everyone deserves to have a fulfilling life with their needs met. Remaining politically neutral and not focusing on fundraising allows us to keep a laser focus on our mission-serving Veterans. Our dedicated team is made up of all volunteers and we never solicit donations from the community.

What are some of the biggest challenges that Veterans in the Finger Lakes and Rochester areas face when trying to

access support and resources?

Transportation seems to be a pretty universal struggle across the area. DAV has been assisting Veterans attend their VA appointments for years. Their program plays an essential role trying to keep up with an ever growing need. In the last year CompeerCORPS Vets Driving Vets program launched in Monroe County and has been a much needed compliment to DAV’s services. There was also some incredible grassroots organizing that happened recently regarding the VA’s Calkins Road Clinic. RTS took note and stepped up to the plate with a dedicated bus shuttle. We know there is still work to be done, but we are happy to see the forward momentum and grateful for all the community’s hard work.

How does Roc Veterans help bridge the gap between Veterans and the many organizations and programs available to them?

The Finger Lakes region is incredibly fortunate to have so many organizations working for Veterans. It can be overwhelming to try to keep up with all of them! We are able to manage the chaos of dozens of organizations hosting hundreds of events a month so Veterans don’t have to.

The world of Veteran Service Organizations can be confusing for many. How do you help Veterans and families navigate that network more easily?

Our resources page is sorted by topic area which we think is helpful. You’ll notice that some organizations are listed on multiple pages because they may offer a variety of services. Instead of going to all the organization websites to learn who offers the services you need, you can click through our website with

{ THE HEART OF ROC VETERANS }

“Roc Veterans was founded at the VA Finger Lakes’ Mental Health Summit a couple years ago. One takeaway from the event was there are so many wonderful resources in the Finger Lakes for service members, Veterans, and their families (SMVF), but things felt ‘siloed’.”

what your needs are and we’ll give you the information for resources that meet those needs.

How do you collaborate with other organizations, agencies, or local businesses to expand your network of support?

Our team is very well connected to a variety of groups. For example, Liz does some great work with Roc Veterans but is also connected to the Latino Military Coalition, American Legion, DAV, CompeerCORPS, Red Cross Service to Armed Forces Committee, Blue Star Mothers, One Soldier at a Time, At Ease, and AmVets. Many of our members are involved in numerous organizations and that helps the Roc Veterans team keep up with all our partner organizations.

Can you share a success story or moment that really illustrates the impact Roc Veterans has had on a Veteran or family in need?

For our one-year anniversary we launched a survey asking for feedback. We were absolutely thrilled with the results. Survey respondents report:

-73.1% have attended an event they heard about from Roc Veterans (20.8% report 3+ events)

-26.9% report they have joined a Veteran group they got connected to through Roc Veterans (ex- Veteran hockey team, Veteran writing group, Veteran motorcycle clubs, etc)

-42.3% have received a helpful service such as assistance filing a VA claim or getting a free bus pass (again-they learned these services were available and how to connect to them through our website)

-87.5% report using our website or social media pages at least a few times a month (12.5% report visiting us daily)

One of our big goals was getting the Veteran community more connected and it seems like we are very much on the right track.

What are some of the most requested types of support or services Veterans are currently seeking in your area?

A neat thing about having an online platform like ours is we get all sorts of data. We can see how many people visit each of the subpages on our website and it can give us an idea of what people are most interested in. It’s powerful information to have access to because we can shift our social media posts and highlight different resources if there seems to be a spike in need. So long story short-this is ever evolving, but consistently people are seeking out Veteran groups in the area. Before the summer we added a collection of organizations that offer retreats for Veterans and that has been a very popular resource. Recently we have seen an increase of people seeking information about food pantries so we put a button linking directly to our food resources page on the landing page of our website. Again-we just want to make it easy for people to find what they need.

How has the response from the local community and Veteran families been since launching RocVeterans.org?

We have been humbled by all the positive feedback. It’s always exciting when we are tabling in the community someplace and we hear about how helpful our organization has been for them. We have such a passion for this work and knowing that it’s helpful really fuels us. All the success we’ve had so far has been purely word of mouth. 83.3% of

people who took our survey said they have recommended Roc Veterans to another Veteran and we are eternally grateful for those endorsements.

Looking ahead, what are your goals for Roc Veterans — both online and in the community — over the next few years?

We recently acquired a tablecloth and have started doing some tabling events. We look forward to getting into the community more this year (so invite us to your upcoming events!). We also are working on a couple new sections for the website including information for end of life planning, resources for aging Veterans, and some resources for the families of POW/MIA. We are always open to suggestions though and if your readers notice a resource they need is missing we would love to hear about that. Email us at rocveterans585@ gmail.com

For readers of Rochester Woman Online who want to get involved, volunteer, or help spread the word, what’s the best way for them to support your mission? We would be grateful for any support your readers would like to lend. There are so many diverse opportunities to volunteer in support of the Veteran community. Check out the ‘Get Involved’ page on our website for a whole list! We would love your help spreading the word about our page-give our social media posts a share or tell the Veteran in your life about us. Another important way to help is if you are connected to a Veteran event or program please tell us about it! We would love the opportunity to share the great work you are doing.

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LOVELY YOU AESTHETICS

When you walk into Lovely You Aesthetics in the Village of Webster, you instantly feel it — the calm, welcoming energy that reflects not just beauty, but confidence, care, and authenticity. Founded by Carla, a medical professional with over 15 years of healthcare experience, this premier aesthetic practice was created to redefine what it means to feel comfortable and empowered in your own skin.

Carla’s journey into aesthetic medicine began with her own personal transformation. After experiencing how aesthetic treatments could enhance her confidence, she recognized the need for a space where patients didn’t feel rushed, judged, or overlooked — a place where they could be educated, heard, and celebrated. That vision became the foundation of Lovely You Aesthetics: a practice built on compassion, education, and genuine connection.

What truly sets Lovely You apart is the team’s ability to blend medical precision with artistry. Each provider brings a unique background that enriches the client experience. Carla’s deep knowledge of anatomy and patient care ensures every treatment is safe, thoughtful, and customized. Cameron, with her extensive experience treating chronic migraines and TMJ, brings an unparalleled understanding of facial anatomy and injection precision — skills that translate beautifully into her aesthetic work, creating balanced, natural results that enhance rather than alter. Torianna, whose expertise lies in restorative skincare and evidencebased treatments, helps patients set realistic goals and “trust the process,”

guiding them through transformative results that unfold over time.

At Lovely You Aesthetics, the focus isn’t on changing how you look — it’s about helping you feel like the best version of yourself. Through treatments like injectables, microneedling, CO₂ laser resurfacing, and medical-grade skincare, the team tailors every plan to the individual. Their holistic approach even extends beyond skin health, with services like weight management and

wellness consultations designed to support confidence from the inside out.

In an industry often driven by trends, Lovely You Aesthetics stands out for its integrity, education, and patient-first philosophy. Here, art meets science, precision meets compassion, and every client leaves not only looking refreshed — but feeling genuinely renewed.

Carla, what inspired you to open Lovely You Aesthetics, and how has your 15+ years of healthcare experience

influenced your approach to aesthetics and patient care?

I fell in love with aesthetic medicine through my own journey, feeling more confident in my own skin. However, in the beginning, I had often felt rushed and even had thoughts of not belonging or not being pretty enough to be at a med spa. This inspired me to create a space where patients feel educated, comfortable, and truly heard. With 15 years in health care, my love for both education and procedures made aesthetics the perfect blend of everything I am passionate about.

What do you feel sets Lovely You Aesthetics apart from other medical spas in the Rochester area?

What really sets Lovely You Aesthetics apart is our focus on education and authentic relationships. We take time to ensure every patient understands their treatment and feels completely comfortable throughout the process. Our team genuinely cares! Also, being in the Village of Webster provides high-quality care in a warm, welcoming place closer to home.

You’ve created a warm, empowering environment where clients feel seen and cared for. How important is that emotional connection to the work you do?

The emotional connection is what truly lights me up! It makes my work so meaningful.

Torianna, with your background in restorative treatments and evidencebased skincare, how do you help clients develop realistic expectations and trust the process of their transformation? The first step in always the consultation. I

“Offering

medical weight management and skin consultations allows me to take a more holistic approach in helping clients feel confident from the inside out while supporting their overall health and long term wellness.”

like to let the client start the conversation and guide it so I can really hear them and gauge what it is they are seeing in the mirror that led them to book that appointment. We discuss things like goals, budget and lifestyle. From there I will make recommendations. I always take “before” photos and continue to document their journey so that we can see those changes over time. A common thing my clients will hear me say when talking about restorative treatments is- “This is a commitment product/ treatment, not an instant gratification treatment/product, it will take time but it’s worth it.” I set clear expectations and really give my clients as much information as possible so they can feel empowered and confident in whichever treatment plan they choose.

Cameron, you bring a strong medical foundation from working with patients suffering rom chronic migraines and TMJ. How has that precision and experience shaped your work in aesthetics?

My background in treating chronic migraine, atypical facial pain, and TMJ has been foundational to how I approach aesthetics. In headache medicine, I spent years administering precise injections in highly sensitive areas of the face, head, and neck. That experience demanded an in-depth understanding of facial anatomy, muscle dynamics, and the way even subtle variations in technique can affect both function and comfort. Over time, I realized that the same precision and anatomical knowledge that helped relieve pain could also be applied to help patients feel more confident in their appearance. Aesthetics, for me, is an extension of that same medical discipline — it requires the same

meticulous technique and individualized approach, but with an artistic touch. When I work with aesthetic patients, I draw on that medical foundation to ensure every treatment is both safe and customized. My goal is always to achieve natural, balanced results that enhance rather than alter, helping patients look refreshed while feeling like the best version of themselves.

The aesthetic industry continues to evolve rapidly. How do you and your team stay at the forefront of new technologies, treatments, and safety practices?

In medicine (aesthetics medicine too), the one constant is change. My years as a registered nurse and nurse practitioner have taught me to be a lifelong learner. I love staying current through ongoing education, adhering to safety protocols, conferences, and research. Ensuring my team and I bring the safest, most advanced treatments to our patients. I also only bring in procedures and products I have personally tried and love. Not only have I done the homework, but I have experienced it myself.

You offer a range of services — from injectables and microneedling to BioRePeel, Helix CO₂ laser treatments, and medical-grade skincare. What are some of your most popular treatments, and why do you think clients love them?

That is a tough question because every client has unique goals and needs. However, I have noticed a growing interest in regenerative medicine and also undetectable injectables. Treatments like Sculptra, microneedling with PDRN, and our CO2 laser options really encourage the body to do it’s own work- rebuilding

collagen and improving texture from within. This allows for patients to feel their best- but having natural subtle enhancements. Trends have shifted away from looking overfilled or overtreated and towards results that simply look like you- just refreshed!

Many people are hesitant to try aesthetic treatments because they fear looking “overdone.” How do you achieve such natural-looking results while enhancing each client’s unique beauty? It starts with thorough consultation. I take time to understand each client’s goals. From there I use a conservative, multimodal approach combing treatments like injectables, skin care, and collagen stimulating therapies to address volume loss and skin quality gradually. The key is to go slow and build on results over time. My goal is always for someone to notice that you look refreshed , not that you have had something “done”.

Can you explain the benefits of your Medical Grade Skin Better Chemical Peel and what clients can expect from that experience?

Our medical grade Skin Better peel is a no- downtime treatment designed to refresh the skin, improve tone, and restore radiance. It is ideal for the fall and winter when sun exposure is lower. The peel helps to address early signs of sun damage, uneven pigmentation, and dullness with minimal redness or flaking. Most clients return to normal activities immediately. Consistent treatments, paired with daily SPF, help maintain smooth, healthy and luminous skin.

You also offer weight management and skin consultations in addition to aesthetic services. How do these

“ I LOVE staying current through ongoing education, adhering to safety protocols,

CONFERENCES, and research. Ensuring my team and I bring the SAFEST, most advanced treatments to our patients.”

“What really sets Lovely You Aesthetics apart

is our focus on education and authentic relationships. We take time to ensure every patient understands their treatment and feels completely comfortable throughout the process. Our team genuinely cares!”

your holistic approach to beauty and wellness?

While weight management was not part of my original business model, I quickly realized how much my patients needed support in this area. Having personally struggled with weight most of my adult life, it is something I deeply understand. Offering medical weight management and skin consultations allows me to take a more holistic approach in helping clients feel confident from the inside out while supporting their overall health and long term wellness.

Lovely You Aesthetics has become known for blending art and science in everything you do. How do you balance the medical precision of your work with the artistry required in aesthetics?

Aesthetic medicine is truly where art meets science. My goal is to always achieve beautiful, natural results while maintaining the highest standards of safety. Every treatment plan is built on anatomy, informed consent, and preparedness for adverse events. This balance allows me to deliver results that are both safe and refined, enhancing confidence without compromising care.

What’s one of the most rewarding success stories or transformations you’ve seen since opening the practice? That is a hard question because there have been so many meaningful transformations. One that stands out is a patient who underwent an aggressive CO2 laser resurfacing treatment with the Helix laser to address significant skin concerns and wrinkles after weight loss, aging, and

smoking. Her results were truly life changing- she was brought to tears speaking about her results- smoother and rejuvenated skin. She is now wearing make up again and feeling more confident and comfortable in her own skin. Her results were so amazing that Cartessa (distributor of Helix) requested to share results for marketing and paid a small stipend.

How do you approach team collaboration within your practice, and what makes your partnership with Torianna and Cameron so effective?

Coming from being a solo injectorhaving a team has been incredible! Collaboration is the heart of our practice and we are constantly learning together, sharing ideas, and supporting one another. Working with Cameron and Torianna has brought so much growth and energy to Lovely You. Our shared passion for patient care makes us a stronger team.

What advice would you give to someone considering their first aesthetic treatment but unsure where to begin?

I always recommend starting with a reputable medical spa that has licensed, experienced providers. Look for credentials such as a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, physician, or registered nurse who specialized in aesthetics. Ask about their training, safety protocols, and see before and after photos of their actual work. At Lovely You we offer complimentary consultations to discuss goals, review treatment options, and provide transparent information on

pricing, risks, and expected outcomes. Education and trust are the foundation of every great result.

Looking ahead, what exciting new treatments, services, or goals do you have planned for the future of Lovely You Aesthetics?

Our focus right now is continued organic growth, not rushed. We are fortunate to have the space to expand within our new building as the practice evolves. In the future, I would love to add an esthetician or massage therapist to further complement our services. For now, our priority is continuing to delivery exceptional results and an elevated experience for every client.

NOURISHING LIVES

SPENCERPORT DRIPHOUSE

Sweat, Serenity & Self-Care: Inside Driphouse Spencerport

In the heart of Spencerport sits a wellness oasis that’s helping the community redefine what self-care really means. Driphouse Spencerport, owned by Stephanie, offers an innovative approach to relaxation, recovery, and holistic health through its unique FAR Infrared heat therapies and wellness services.

What began as a simple job opportunity for Stephanie quickly became a passion—and ultimately, a dream realized. After joining the Driphouse team five years ago, she fell in love with the calming atmosphere, the loyal clientele, and the way guests walked in stressed and walked out rejuvenated. When the opportunity arose to purchase the business, she knew it was meant to be.

Today, Driphouse Spencerport has become more than a place to unwind— it’s a community focused on healing, mindfulness, and balance. From the one-of-a-kind Signature Drip to infrared saunas, NormaTec compression therapy, and a cozy in-house boutique, every detail is designed to help guests feel better in both mind and body. Stephanie’s mission is simple: to create a space where everyone feels welcomed, cared for, and empowered to put themselves first.

Q & A with Stephanie | Owner of Driphouse Spencerport

Stephanie, can you tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to open Driphouse Spencerport?

A: I started as an associate at Driphouse Spencerport when it opened five years ago, and from day one, I absolutely loved it — it never felt like work. I saw customers come in frazzled from their busy lives, stressed from work or family, and leave completely relaxed and grateful for the time they

took for themselves. Over the years, our customers became like family, and this location grew into something truly special. So, when the opportunity came to purchase the business, it was an easy decision. I’ve always dreamed of being my own boss, and now I get to do it doing something I love.

What was your first impression of Driphouse, and how did it influence your decision to become an owner?

A: The first time I walked into Driphouse Spencerport, I was blown away. I wasn’t expecting the amazing aroma and warmth that instantly made me feel at ease. From the start, we were educated on the benefits of FAR Infrared heat — a deeper, more therapeutic kind of heat. Learning how powerful it can be, and watching how much it helped our clients, really inspired me to take this path.

For those who may not be familiar, can you explain what Driphouse is and what makes it such a unique wellness experience?

A: Driphouse is a luxury recovery studio where we help you recharge, recover, and feel your best with innovative wellness services. Whether you’re looking to detox, relieve stress, speed up muscle recovery, or just give yourself an hour to reset — we’ve got you covered.

Our Signature Drip is the only FAR Infrared blanket experience in Rochester, NY. Clients relax on a zero-gravity adjustable bed, wrapped in 140 degrees of clean FAR Infrared heat for a 60-minute session while watching Netflix. Midway through, we add a cool towel to the forehead for comfort, and afterward, guests enjoy a eucalyptus-infused cold towel and water in our Drip Dry Room.

We also offer private Sunlight FAR Infrared saunas that accommodate up to four people, and NormaTec leg

compression sleeves that help reduce inflammation, relieve soreness, and improve circulation. And our boutique is a favorite — filled with high-quality athletic wear, accessories, and jewelry that surprises firsttime visitors the moment they walk in.

You offer services like FAR Infrared therapy, saunas, and NormaTec. Which treatments are most popular, and why do clients love them?

A: The Signature Drip is definitely our most popular service because there’s nothing else like it. It’s an uninterrupted hour of pure relaxation — a “mini vacation” without having to leave town. It’s the perfect way to recharge.

How do Driphouse’s treatments support overall wellness — from muscle recovery and stress reduction to weight loss and better sleep?

A: FAR Infrared heat promotes relaxation, improves sleep by regulating circadian rhythms, and boosts endorphins and serotonin. It also enhances blood flow, reduces inflammation, and supports muscle recovery by delivering oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles. It’s truly a full-body wellness experience.

Many people are becoming more aware of detoxing and self-care. How does Driphouse fit into that movement toward holistic wellness?

A: Driphouse Spencerport focuses on improving wellness physically, mentally, and emotionally. We want every customer to leave feeling better — in mind, body, and spirit.

What makes Driphouse’s technology and equipment stand out from traditional saunas or recovery studios?

A: Our technology is state-of-the-art. FAR Infrared heat is unique because it warms the body from the inside out, promoting

{ RELAX. RECOVER. RECHARGE. }

{ MINDFUL BEAUTY

“Walking into Driphouse Spencerport for the first time for me blew me away. I wasn’t expecting the wonderful smell that captured me and the warmth it emits.”

deeper muscle relaxation, improved circulation, and faster recovery — all while you relax in a comfortable environment.

Can you share a success story or transformation from one of your clients?

A: One of our members comes in weekly for chronic pain related to plantar fasciitis. She’s seen a huge improvement in her pain levels and mobility. Stories like hers remind me how powerful these treatments can be. Of course, we always recommend checking with your doctor before starting heat therapy if you have certain medical conditions.

As a business owner, what has been the most rewarding part of bringing this wellness experience to your community?

A: The most rewarding part is seeing the positive impact it has on people’s lives. I also have to credit Malisa Lougher, owner and co-founder of Driphouse Pittsford, for introducing the FAR Infrared blanket experience to Rochester. It’s truly one of a kind, and I’m so proud to continue that legacy here in Spencerport.

What challenges did you face when opening your location, and

how did you overcome them?

A: Fortunately, I purchased an already beautiful and well-established location. The previous owner created such a warm, welcoming space that I was able to focus immediately on growing the business and our community.

How do you personally incorporate Driphouse treatments into your own wellness routine?

A: I don’t view Driphouse as “treatments.”

For me, it’s a vital part of my overall wellness — just like sleep, nutrition, and hydration. It helps me maintain balance, reinforce good habits, and reminds me to put myself first.

Driphouse has such a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. How important is that environment to the client experience?

A: It’s everything! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a calming aroma, soft lighting, and friendly faces. We want every guest to feel completely relaxed from start to finish — and to leave already planning their next visit.

What advice would you give to someone curious about trying Driphouse but feeling unsure about what to expect?

A: Many people are nervous before their first visit because it’s such a unique experience. Once we explain the process, they’re excited to try it — and by the end, they’re already booking their next session. My advice is to visit our website or social media pages to get familiar with what we offer. Knowledge helps eliminate any hesitation!

Where do you see Driphouse Spencerport growing or expanding in the next few years?

A: We plan to continue expanding our services. I’m currently exploring options like contrast therapy and halo therapy, which I think our clients will love. Stay tuned — there’s more to come!

Finally, what does wellness mean to you personally, and how has being part of the Driphouse family changed your life?

A: Wellness is something women often put last on their list, but it’s so important to make ourselves a priority. For me, wellness means honoring my body and mind by taking time to recharge and care for myself — and encouraging others to do the same. Being part of Driphouse has reminded me that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential.

WHERE SURGICAL EXCELLENCE MEETS UPLIFTING EXPERIENCES

Creating transformative results that enhance appearances—and lives.

At the Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery, we belie ve every patient deserves more than exceptional res ults— you deserve an extraordinary journey. Our team of s pecialized surgeons combines world-class expertise with the warmth and attention you’d expect from the region’s most trusted aesthetic practice. Each of our surgeons focuses exclusively on either facial or bo dy procedures, because true expertise comes from dedicated specialization.

From our elegant historic setting to our state-of-t he-art on-site surgery center, every detail is designed to create upliftin g experiences that change our patients’ lives. Whet her you’re considering a life-changing surgery or a minimally invasive treatment, you’ll discover why p atients travel from across the country to experience the Quatela difference.

Ready to discover your transformation? Schedule your consultation today. Quatela.com | (585) 244-1000

DR. ALEX MONTAGUE DR. HEATHER LEE DR. VITO QUATELA DR. ASHLEY AMALFI DR. PETER KRASNIAK

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

A DREAM IS A WISH YOUR HEART MAKES

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY VERONICA RYAN

Part II: Pretty With Purpose

Hello, and welcome! If it’s “welcome back”—and I hope it is!—then you remember how I closed last month’s column:

When I’m all dressed up for an appearance or event, I totally feel like a princess – but a princess who never lived in a castle. I’m a princess who isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty, and who has kissed a frog or two. I’m a princess who can face any challenge and tackle any dragon. I’m a princess who wants to make the world a better place. I’m a princess with a story to tell.

So, you might have asked, what’s the story? Well, the story is that we are never alone. The story is that there is always hope. The story is my passion for mental health advocacy, my determination to use my experiences to help others, and my desire to pursue advocacy in a fresh, new way. In short, the story is the reason behind the name Beautiful, Powerful, Deserving.

Longtime readers know that my advocacy focuses on Borderline Personality Disorder, or BPD. It’s a condition that is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and mistreated. Admittedly, I am not a physician or clinician. When I say “misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and mistreated,” those are my own perceptions as someone who has been through it, and as someone who was lucky enough, after a long struggle, to get the right treatment at the Psychiatry High Risk Program (PHRP) in Syracuse.

A core element of my treatment is something called a “daily connection.” I can’t explain the science behind it, or fully describe the process in clinical terms, but to me it is a moment when I sit down with my laptop, or pen and ink, and I think about the emotional shocks—the highs and lows—of my day. Then I very specifically and carefully name those emotions. For example, “feeling good” might become “joyful, fulfilled, and grateful,” or “feeling bad” might become “disappointed, frustrated, and irritable.” Unravelling those details, and swimming in that kind of holistic, this-is-all-part-of-my-life complexity, led to Beautiful, Powerful, Deserving.

Beautiful, Powerful, Deserving. B –P – D? Yes, but that’s more than just wordplay with the BPD acronym. It’s BPD robbed of its power, kicked off its dark throne, and no longer allowed to be the only experience, the only emotion, the only “me.” Beautiful, Powerful, Deserving is me taking a stand, along with everyone else who suffers from, or has suffered from, mental illness. It is me refusing to bow to BPD, taking back my life from the thing that would have stolen it away.

We are Beautiful. We are not physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually perfect, but “perfect” and “beautiful” are not the same thing. Close your eyes. Now imagine the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen. What was it? An explosion of flowers in the spring? A riot of colors in the Finger Lakes or Adirondacks in the fall? Was it your first puppy or a newborn baby?

Whatever it was, it took your breath away then, and you remember it still—and whatever it was, it was not “perfect.” If you focused too closely on just one blossom or leaf, on just one toe or paw, you could probably find a flaw, some defect or blemish. But when you stepped back and appreciated the whole glorious, complicated, imperfect creation it was, absolutely and without doubt, Beautiful. And we don’t hide away beautiful things; we celebrate them. We all have our scars and blemishes, and our physical and mental struggles, but none of us have anything to hide.

We are Beautiful.

We are Powerful. Our lives aren’t simple or easy. Our lives, like our emotions, can be complicated and difficult to handle. They can even seem overwhelming, with impossible problems and challenges coming at us faster than we can handle. But the voice whispering “You can’t do it” is the same voice spinning the lies that we aren’t Beautiful. It’s the voice that always holds up the trick mirror (I certainly won’t call it a “fun” house mirror), showing us a distorted, ugly, deceitful, and untrue vision of ourselves. But the moment we turn away from that mirror and its lies, we will see that we are Beautiful. And if we’re Beautiful, we are also Powerful. Our beauty comes from every single piece of our own unique puzzle – our strengths, weaknesses, talents, passions, experiences, mistakes, lessons, desires, fears – all of it. We are each one-of-a kind, one-in-a-universe unique masterpieces. How can that not be powerful? How can that not

{ SHIFT+CONTROL }

{ BEAUTIFUL, POWERFUL, DESERVING }

“. The “perfect” life is just another lie, a false standard we can never meet. But here’s the secret – failing at the “perfect” life isn’t failure at all, it’s a success.”

overcome any curveball life chooses to throw at it? We are unconquerable when we value ourselves as we should.

We are Powerful.

We are Deserving. Well, of course we are! In some ways, the “D” might be the most important piece of my advocacy for Borderline Personality Disorder awareness and suicide

prevention. We all deserve to recognize our beauty and our power. We deserve rich, full, lives. Not perfect lives. The “perfect” life is just another lie, a false standard we can never meet. But here’s the secret – failing at the “perfect” life isn’t failure at all, it’s a success. That “perfect” life is hollow and empty, a meaningless cheat that wouldn’t satisfy us even if we could get it. It is to real happiness

what junk food is to real hunger. We deserve the real thing. We deserve joyful, complicated, meaningful, challenging, crazy, wonderful lives. We can have those lives because we are all in this together. We can have those lives because we are never alone. We can have those lives because we are Beautiful, Powerful, Deserving.

THE POWER OF READING ALOUD { LETS GET L.I.T. }

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY CLIANDA FLORENCE & DR. CAROL ST. GEORGE PROFESSOR AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER

Why Everyone Benefits When We Read Books with Children of all Ages

For parents, caregivers, and families across the Rochester area, this everyday ritual is one of the most powerful gifts we can give our children. And the best part? Anyone can do it, anytime, anywhere, with any book. If you’ve ever curled up with a young child and opened a picture book, you already know that reading aloud can feel like magic. Their eyes widen, their body settles in close, and for a few precious minutes, the world shrinks to the space between the two of you and the story unfolding on the page. This moment may feel intimate and simple; however, its impact is profound and large. Reading aloud to children of all ages, including babies, toddlers, and older school aged and teens, offers lifelong benefits that go far beyond learning new words or developing a love of books. Reading aloud is one of the most powerful tools for strengthening children’s language, confidence, comprehension, and love for learning. Whether a child is in preschool, elementary, middle school, or high school, shared reading creates moments of connection that shape the mind and the heart. Families, educators, and caregivers all play a vital role in building strong readers one story at a time.

A Foundation for Language and Learning

From the moment babies are born, their brains are wiring themselves at astonishing speed. Reading aloud introduces them to the sounds, rhythms, and patterns of language long before they can speak. Even if a baby doesn’t understand the story, they absorb the sound and flow

of your voice, your voice changing with excitement, and the various sounds of real and nonsense words you use as you read to them. As children grow, this exposure becomes even more important. Research consistently shows that children who are read to regularly have stronger vocabularies, better comprehension skills, and improved readiness for school. In the United States, 55% of children ages 0–5 are read to at home at least five days a week; 37% are read to daily. Many people don’t realize that these benefits continue well beyond the early years. Reading aloud to older children introduces them to richer language and more complex concepts than they might encounter through conversation alone or are able to read on their own. Children read to daily are three times more likely to read independently for pleasure. It strengthens their ability to concentrate, interpret meaning, and think critically. Reading aloud basically serves to connect spoken and written language, and between what children understand at their age and what their understanding will expand into as they grow.

Strengthening Connection, Comfort, and Joy

While the academic benefits are remarkable, it is the emotional rewards that many parents cherish most. In a world where schedules are full and screens constantly compete for our attention, reading aloud creates a precious break. It’s a moment of closeness marked by a shared ritual within a safe, predictable time when your child has your full focus. Adults who read with children report higher positive mood levels compared to reading alone. For younger children,

these reading moments reinforce security and belonging. Older children love your time and attention too, though they sometimes don’t show it. A book becomes a sacred meeting place. This shared time can be an investment in a life filled with the joy of books and reading for your child.

Opening Doors to Difficult Conversations

Stories help children understand emotions, relationships, and the world around them. Through characters’ struggles and triumphs, children learn empathy, resilience, and problem-solving. Reading aloud allows parents to guide the narrative of these situations as they read together. Ask your child, “Would you want to be friends with this main character?” or “what would you have done in this situation?” A story can say what may be hard to articulate and or introduce experiences your child may not have encountered yet but prepare them for if they do in the future. When you read together, you can pause to ask questions, check in emotionally, or explore ideas gently. Books can also be powerful tools for navigating tough subjects like conflicts in friendships, family changes, and big feelings. This kind of shared exploration builds trust. It teaches children that conversation, like reading can be safe, comforting, and meaningful. A child who is not reading at grade level by the end of first grade has an 88% chance of remaining behind by fourth grade.

Supporting Older Readers Without Taking Over

Some parents worry that reading aloud to children who can already read might undermine their independence. In fact,

{ LETS GET L.I.T. }

“Ask

adults about books they loved growing up, and many will immediately recall who read them those stories.”

the opposite is true. Reading aloud can support independent reading by exposing children to stories or genres they might not choose on their own, modeling fluency and expressive reading, building background knowledge that makes challenging texts more accessible and reminding them that books are for pleasure, not just assignments. Tweens and teens often face academic pressure that can make reading feel like a chore. Shared reading brings back the joy. Having books in the home is twice as impactful on literacy outcomes as a father’s education level. Consider taking turns reading chapters or choose an audiobook to listen to together in the car. Not only does this keep storytelling alive, but it also gives your child a sense of ownership and partnership in the experience.

Creating Memories That Last

Ask adults about books they loved growing up, and many will immediately recall who read them those stories. The bedtime picture book you’ve read a hundred times, the chapter book that made your child laugh out loud, or the novel you finished together during a family road trip are moments that become woven into your family’s story and memories for a lifetime. These shared reading traditions often become treasured threads connecting generations. They are the kinds of moments children carry with them into adulthood and eventually pass on to their own kids.

Practical Tips for Making Reading Aloud a Habit

Keep it short and consistent. Even 15 minutes a day has a lasting impact.

Let your child help choose the reading. Ownership increases enthusiasm and choice increases motivation.

Use your voice like an instrument. Expression pulls listeners into the story. Feel free to utilize audiobooks. They can be fun for busy families.

Read across ages. Picture books can delight older kids, and chapter books can soothe younger ones.

Keep books accessible. A basket in the living room or a few favorites in the car can spark spontaneous reading.

A Simple Act with Lifelong Impact

Reading aloud is not about perfection. It’s not about how well you perform voices or how much time you can commit. It’s about presence. It’s about connection. It’s about giving your child the world through one story at a time. Reading aloud is an investment: in literacy, in emotional well-being, and in the strong, warm relationships that help children thrive. When we read aloud with children at any age everyone benefits. We nurture curiosity, strengthen relationships, and build the foundation for lifelong learning. Reading aloud is one of the simplest, most powerful gifts we can offer our children and the world they will shape. Reading aloud benefits children, families, and the community by promoting academic success across subjects, fosters confidence and joy around reading, deepens parent-child connection and trust, creates shared routines that strengthen emotional bonds, helps adults’ model fluent, expressive reading, encourages meaningful conversations about life, values, and culture, supports lifelong literacy and learning, reduces academic gaps, promotes a culture

where reading is celebrated and shared, and builds stronger, more connected families and communities. All it takes is your voice, your attention, your time, and a good story.

Reference

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2014). Literacy promotion: An essential component of primary care pediatric practice. Pediatrics, 134(2), 404–409. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2014-1384 Mol, S. E., & Bus, A. G. (2011). To read or not to read: A meta-analysis of print exposure from infancy to early adulthood. Psychological Bulletin, 137(2), 267–296. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0021890 National Institute for Literacy. (2008). Developing early literacy: Report of the National Early Literacy Panel. National Center for Family Literacy. National Literacy Trust. (2018). The impact of reading aloud on children’s literacy development. National Literacy Trust Research Report. National Early Literacy Panel. (2008). Developing early literacy: Report of the National Early Literacy Panel. National Center for Family Literacy. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2012). Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results: Reading and lifelong outcomes. OECD Publishing. Rising Tide Interactive. (2019). The benefits of reading aloud: A review of research. Reading is Fundamental.

Sénéchal, M., & Young, L. (2008). The effect of family literacy interventions on children’s acquisition of reading from kindergarten to grade 3: A meta-analytic review. Review of Educational Research, 78(4), 880–907. https:// doi.org/10.3102/0034654308320319 University of Melbourne. (2013). Reading aloud to children: The evidence. Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research. Wolf, M. (2008). Proust and the squid: The story and science of the reading brain. HarperCollins.

CHOOSE YOUR BATTLES!

Jon’s journey is a continuous battle for his quality of life. We’re currently fighting on multiple fronts-a new van, a new wheelchair, compassionate use for the trial drug he’s been on for almost 20 years, and the drug deflazacort he’s been taking for 27 years. These are not just items on a checklist, but crucial elements that can significantly improve Jon’s life.

My husband and I have had many discussions about the immense energy it takes to navigate these battles. Despite the ongoing challenges, my attitude remains resilient. I can’t control everything, but I’m determined to do everything in my power to provide the best possible care for Jon, ensuring he has the highest quality of life.

Last month, I shared the uphill battle with the FDA to obtain approval for Jon’s trial drug. This is not just a bureaucratic hurdle, but a crucial fight for Jon’s health and well-being. The recent government shutdown has delayed this approval, impacting Jon’s treatment plan and overall quality of life. Now that the government is open again, my struggle with the FDA will intensify, and I’m prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure Jon gets the medication he needs. This month’s new battles were with medical insurance to get Jon’s wheelchair covered and his deflazacort covered. The process of getting these essential items covered is not as straightforward as one might think. It’s not just a matter of the doctor handling the appeal. It

BY CHRISTINE PIACENTINO

requires extensive coordination and communication with Jon’s physical therapist, the wheelchair provider, and his physician to develop the appropriate language for an appeal letter. The letter has been written and is being reviewed by the physician to ensure approval, after which it will be submitted back to the insurance company. This process usually takes months, and the uncertainty and stress it brings can be overwhelming.

the name-brand medication wouldn’t be covered, he wasn’t sure what to do. Jon and I discussed which battle we really wanted to fight with the insurance company—the standing feature of his wheelchair or the name-brand drug. It seems unreasonable that we are forced to prioritize one essential need over another to navigate the complexities of insurance policies, but this is a reality we must face in our healthcare journey.

Following the denial and appeal process for the wheelchair, we faced another difficult decision. Insurance would not cover Jon’s name-brand Emflaza (deflazacort). They would cover the generic brand. The name brand is produced in the United States, ensuring a certain level of quality and safety. The generic brand, on the other hand, could be made anywhere and might not be as pure as the name brand. When the pharmacy called Jon to say

Jon and I took time to consider which challenge we most needed to address with the insurance company: the standing feature on his wheelchair or the coverage for the name-brand drug. The situation is deeply frustrating. We found ourselves in a position where we had to choose which battle to pursue. It’s exhausting to appeal an insurance company’s decision. It takes research and constant communication with Jon’s medical team. We hope that by sharing our frustration, you can better understand the complexities we face in navigating Jon’s healthcare.

We decided to accept the generic brand of his deflazacort. This decision was not made lightly. We chose this path because we have extensive experience with imported deflazacort, and we didn’t want to pay for the brand name out of our own pocket. Before deflazacort was approved in the United States, we would purchase the drug from a Pharmacy in the United Kingdom. If we had a doctor’s prescription, the UK pharmacy would ship it. Through the years, the drug we received was manufactured anywhere in the world.

“Last month, I shared the uphill battle with the FDA to obtain approval for Jon’s trial drug. This is not just a bureaucratic hurdle, but a crucial fight for Jon’s health and well-being.”

We didn’t think much about where the drug would be manufactured. It was a coincidence that the drug arrived, and I saw a news report about common generic heart medications being recalled due to manufacturing issues at sites in India. I wondered where Jon’s generic came from. I looked at the bottle, and it did indeed say “Manufactured in India.” This experience has taught us the importance of being informed about the safety and quality of the drugs we use. I conducted some research on the number of generic-named medicines manufactured in the United States that are made in India. Here is what I found out. This knowledge empowers us to make informed decisions about Jon’s healthcare.

• India is one of the largest producers of generic drugs globally, supplying over 20% of the world’s generic medicines.

• Approximately 80% of all prescription drugs consumed in the U.S. originate from India and China, with India being a dominant player in the generic segment.

• 83% of the top 100 prescribed generic medications in the U.S. are imported, many from Indian manufacturers.

The above statistics made me wonder how many US drugs have had recalls. In just the first quarter of 2025, four major Indian pharmaceutical companies issued recalls. Experts warn of challenges and concerns regarding the quality of generic drugs manufactured in India.

• A 2025 study found that generic drugs manufactured in India were associated with 54.3% more serious adverse events (e.g., hospitalizations, disabilities, and deaths) compared to those made in

advanced economies like the U.S..

• These findings highlight significant disparities in quality assurance and regulatory oversight between Indian and Western manufacturing facilities

• The FDA inspects foreign plants less frequently and often with advance notice, unlike the surprise inspections conducted domestically. Many recalls are initiated by the companies themselves, often after internal purity tests or labeling errors are discovered.

• Experts warn that some manufacturing lapses may go undetected or unreported, raising concerns about the transparency and accountability in the global drug supply chain.

If you would like to track one of your own medications or manufacturers— especially one from India—you can use these tools to monitor for updates. Below is a list of websites you can use and what they provide:

FDA Recalls, Market Withdrawals & Safety Alerts

• Website: FDA Recall Portal

• What it offers:

o Searchable database of all FDAregulated product recalls, including generic drugs.

o Filter by product type, date, company, or recall reason.

o Includes terminated, ongoing, and completed recalls.

o You can also sign up for email alerts to stay updated.

National Drug Codes (NDC) List –Drug Recalls Lookup

• Website: NDCList.com Recalls Lookup

• What it offers:

o Search by drug name, NDC code, manufacturer, or recall reason.

o Includes both finished and unfinished products.

o Useful for healthcare providers and consumers looking for detailed recall data.

Recalls.gov – Medicine Section

• Website: Recalls.gov – Medicine

• What it offers:

o Aggregates recall information from multiple federal agencies.

o Links directly to FDA recall alerts for drugs, vaccines, and medical devices.

I checked whether there were any recalls on Jon’s generic deflazacort, which is manufactured in India. As of now, there are no active FDA recalls listed for generic Deflazacort. However, I will monitor this regularly, especially given this drug’s critical role in treating Jon. Sources used in the development of this article:

NewsTarget – Generic Drugs from India and Adverse Events

Prosperous America – Indian Pharma Recalls

Kelley School of Business – Study on Indian Generics

Updates on recalls on the ACCC Product Safety website | ACCC Product Safety.

THE BOXES WE BUILD

Unleash Your Creative Nurturer

Debt. A struggling marriage. Lukewarm friendships. And a body I kept pushing harder, believing sheer willpower could keep it going, until it began to shut down

It wasn’t until I stopped running that I realized I’d spent years building a box to keep myself small, invisible, and safe, all in the name of fitting in. And the truth is, most women live their entire life without ever noticing the confinement.

We all build boxes.

Some are made of perfectionism; the kind that whispers, “If I just do more, work harder, maybe I’ll finally feel enough.” Others are built from people-pleasing, the silent promise that if I keep everyone else happy, I’ll be safe. We decorate our boxes with achievements, titles, homes, and smiles that say, I’ve got it all together. But one day, many of us wake up and realize we can barely breathe inside the life we’ve boxed ourself in to.

I know, because that was me.

For years, I was the woman doing all the “right” things. I worked hard. I was dependable. I said yes when I wanted to say no. I showed up even when I was empty. From the outside, it looked like success but on the inside, it felt like slow suffocation.

I had built a life that was full of expectations and obligations yet hollow of authenticity. I’d followed the rules I thought good women followed: get the degrees, work hard, scale the career ladder, be kind, fall in line, don’t make

BY ERIN PITTINARO

waves. But those same rules kept me small, quiet, and disconnected from who I really was. Every time my inner guide spoke up, pushed back, questioned something or challenged the norm, I was shot down. By supervisors, colleagues, friends and yes, even family.

This only made the walls of the box stronger and me inevitably smaller.

The reality is, most of these rules, roles and expectations we box ourselves in to, aren’t even ours. We inherit them from family, culture, religion, work, and the subtle “shoulds” that stack up over time. Be the good girl. Don’t upset anyone. Stay humble. Don’t want for too much. Each one seems harmless until you start noticing how much of yourself you’ve left out in order to fit inside.

This breaking point came while I was leading a team, juggling projects, people, and expectations while barely keeping myself together. Then a coworker passed away suddenly, and the full weight of my autopilot life hit me. Exhausted, resentful, and joyless, I realized I was following society’s checklist, but somehow more lost than ever. In that moment, I knew I didn’t want this to be me; trapped, boxed in, and watching life pass by.

That’s when I started asking the question that changed everything; What if I built this life out of fear and called it safety. Maybe safety was an illusion and, I was meant to feel free instead?

This cracked the first wall.

I began to see how I had confused control with safety, achievement with

worth, and busyness with purpose. I started dismantling the box; one brave, uncomfortable decision at a time.

Saying no when I meant it. Speaking out even when my voice shook. Letting myself rest without guilt.

And the more I did, the more I met the version of me that had been waiting underneath it all, the woman who didn’t need to prove, perform, or please her way into belonging.

That’s the moment I realized: freedom isn’t about breaking rules; it’s about rewriting them.

As a trauma informed coach, I started seeing the same patterns in other women. They came to me exhausted, successful on paper but empty inside. They weren’t broken, they were boxed in. They’d followed all the rules, too, and still felt like something was missing.

And here’s what I tell them: There’s nothing wrong with you for outgrowing the life you once wanted. It just means you’re ready for expansion.

Sometimes, unboxing starts as a whisper: “this can’t be it” Sometimes, it’s a breakdown, when your body, your relationships, or your spirit refuse to keep up the performance. Either way, it’s not the end. It’s the beginning of becoming.

The boxes we build keep us safe until they don’t. Because we no longer need them. And when they start to feel too small, that’s your cue. That discomfort isn’t failure; it’s a call for freedom.

{ A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE } { UNBOXED: THE ALCHEMY EXPERIENCE }

“That’s when I started asking the question that changed everything; What if I built this life out of fear and called it safety. Maybe safety was an illusion and, I was meant to feel free instead?”

Unboxing doesn’t happen overnight. It’s not a one-time decision; it’s a daily practice of choosing yourself. It’s letting go of the expectations that weigh you down and allowing yourself to become someone new.

For me, that meant leaving a career that no longer fit, healing my body from burnout, and redefining what success looked like. Pouring myself in to my marriage, my family, and the relationships that were aligned. For you, it might mean setting a boundary, ending a pattern, or finally saying yes to something that scares the hell out of you but feels so right.

The process is messy, but it’s also magical. Because on the other side of the box is not chaos, it’s clarity. It’s peace. It’s power. So as we move into the end of the year, I invite you to pause and ask yourself:

• What boxes have I built to stay safe?

• Which ones have I outgrown?

• Who might I become if I started unboxing; one truth, one boundary, one brave decision at a time?

You don’t have to burn it all down to begin again. You just have to stop pretending that small feels comfortable. This column, Unboxed: The Alchemy Experience, A monthly reflection on reinvention, healing, wellness and the art of creating yourself. It’s an invitation to do exactly that, to look at the rules, roles, and stories that shaped you and ask if they still serve the woman you’re becoming.

You get to choose again. You get to expand. And maybe, just maybe, this is the season you finally start building something beautiful.

Not from a place of fear, but from freedom.

Love & Fire

Your Unboxed Coach

Erin Pittinaro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, turned entrepreneur after years of burnout, understanding that we get to reinvent ourselves as many times as we need. A trauma informed coach, leader, author, speaker and proud owner of The Alchemy Experience, Erin has made it her life’s mission to support women in creating the healthiest, wealthiest and most abundant relationships possible.

Introduction

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

I’M STILL STANDING { I’M STILL STANDING }

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Life doesn’t always go as planned. There are days when the weight of disappointment, heartbreak, and loss feels too heavy to carry. Yet somehow, even after the tears, the setbacks, and the sleepless nights — you’re still here. You’re still standing. Those words — “I’m still standing” — are not just a statement of survival; they are a testimony of God’s faithfulness. They are a reminder that no matter what tried to knock you down, it couldn’t keep you there. Because when God is your foundation, even in the storm, you will not fall. “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.” — Psalm 34:19 (NIV)

Standing Through the Storms

On Easter Sunday someone broke into my car and attempted to steal it; although they were unsuccessful in taking my car; they did however manage to do quite a bit of damage, close to $1,000 in damages. My initial response was to go into depression and hide in my room all day. I mean this was Easter Sunday!! , a day to celebrate the resurrection of my Lord, however I was not feeling very celebratory. At that moment. My eyes bloodshot red from crying non -stop ,and frustrated with no solution in sight. As I was waiting for the police to process a report; which by the way they never showed up. Annoyed by what transpired, I went back to bed, trying to contemplate everything that took place. But then this burst of energy suddenly came over me. I suddenly began to experience this

BY TAMESHA BECKFORD

unexplainable joy in my heart. I called my daughter to pick me up to go take me to church. As I was getting ready for church I went from crying and complaining to giving God thanks for protecting me and my family, because honestly it could have gone another way. But storms don’t come to destroy

you — they come to strengthen you. Resilience, in the eyes of faith, means standing firm on God’s promises even when everything else feels unsteady. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” — Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)

Faith That Keeps You Standing

Faith doesn’t always remove the storm, but it gives you peace in the middle of it. It’s the reason you can say, “I don’t know how this will work out, but I trust the One who does.” “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” — Psalm 73:26 (NIV). Even when life knocks you down, God never leaves you there. He reaches into the brokenness, lifts you up, and reminds you — your story isn’t over.

Your Scars Tell a Story

Being “still standing” doesn’t mean you came out of the storm untouched. It means those scars have become your testimony. Every mark, every tear, every sleepless night tells the story of a God who heals and redeems. You may not look like what you’ve been through — and that’s the beauty of grace. The world sees your strength, but only you and God know the prayers, faith, and perseverance it took to still be here. You’ve been struck down, but not destroyed. That means your purpose is still alive, and God still has a plan for your life.

Choosing to Stand Every Day

Choosing to stand every day is tough, especially when you find yourself in a season of difficulty. For instance Not much later after someone attempted to steal my car; on June 25, 2025 I was involved in a hit and run accident on 490 west. I was on my way to a networking event at planet fitness when a car in front of me slammed on their brakes, I slammed on mines in the nick of time, as soon as I slammed on my brakes; a large white SUV slams in the

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” — 2 Corinthians 4:8–9 (NIV) { I’M STILL STANDING }

back of me and instead of pulling over the person drives off! I was devastated but miraculously I was able to walk away without a scratch and standing is not a one-time act — it’s a daily choice. Each day you decide: Will I let fear lead me, or will I trust God again today? Maybe standing today means forgiving someone. Maybe it’s taking the first step toward healing or starting again after failure. Whatever it looks like, know this — you are never standing alone. God is right beside you, upholding you with His righteous right hand. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

A Declaration of Faith

“I’m still standing” is not just a phrase — it’s a declaration of victory. It’s saying, “I’ve been through the fire, but I didn’t burn. I’ve been through the flood, but I didn’t drown. I’ve been broken, but God put me back together.” Take a moment and thank God for every time He carried you when you couldn’t carry yourself. Thank Him for the strength to keep going, the peace that doesn’t make sense, and the hope that never fades. You are living proof that no storm lasts forever and that God’s promises never fail. By God’s grace, I’m still standing. About Wake Up and Live Ministries Wake Up and Live Ministries, founded by Tamesha Beckford, is a faith-based movement dedicated to inspiring and empowering others to live fully in God’s purpose. Through teaching, prayer, and encouragement, the ministry

helps individuals rise up, overcome adversity, and walk boldly in faith. Stay connected for more uplifting messages and spiritual growth tools. Follow: Tik Tok @WakeUpAndLive.77

LegalShield — Protecting What Matters

Life’s storms aren’t just emotional or spiritual — sometimes they’re legal. Whether it’s an unexpected issue, a contract concern, or a family matter, having the right protection matters. Through LegalShield, Tamesha Beckford provides access to affordable, trusted legal services for individuals, families, and small businesses. Empowering people with peace of mind — in faith, life, and law. Learn more or request information today! Email : tameshabeckford. legalshieldassociate.com

{ AT HOME WITH WELLNESS }

UNCOVERING ROOT CAUSE

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Is It Aging—or Is It Inflammation?

Contrary to what we’ve been taught to believe, aging is not some arbitrary decline we’re sentenced to endure. It’s not just something that “happens” to us with time. What we often call aging is, more accurately, the body struggling under years of unresolved stress and silent inflammation.

The foggy thinking, the slower recovery, the aches that weren’t there last year—these are not inevitable. They’re signs that your body has been in a long-term state of defense, quietly inflamed and doing its best to adapt.

Inflammation is the missing piece in most conversations about aging. And it’s also the one we can actually do something about. When we understand it, support the body through it, and calm it at the root, aging begins to look and feel very different.

BY LAURA

poor sleep, blood sugar rollercoasters, processed foods, mineral deficiencies, hidden infections, environmental toxins, trauma loops, congested lymph, EMF stress—we’re exposed to more stressors than the body ever evolved to handle. And so the inflammation switch stays on. Over time, this chronic alert system starts to damage your cells. Collagen breaks down. Hormones go haywire. Mitochondria, the engines of your

It’s not.

Inflammation doesn’t always show up as a diagnosis or a dramatic symptom. More often, it feels like a slow unraveling you can’t quite name. A mismatch between how you used to feel and how you feel now. A quiet sense that your body isn’t recovering, responding, or regulating like it used to.

The Real Clock Behind Aging

What you think is aging may just be the echo of inflammation no one told you about.

Think of chronic inflammation as a stress signal your body never stops sending. At its core, inflammation is your body’s way of trying to protect you. It’s supposed to be short-term—a targeted response to a cut, a bug, a threat. But in modern life, we’re rarely “off duty.” Emotional stress,

energy, stall out. The immune system gets confused and starts attacking your own tissues. Your brain gets foggy. Your joints ache. Your gut gets leaky. Your skin dulls.

This is the true origin of premature aging: the body caught in an endless fire drill.

What Inflammation Actually Feels Like

Most people don’t walk around saying “I think I’m inflamed.” But they do walk around feeling tired, puffy, stiff, irritable, and off and assuming that’s just what getting older feels like.

Here’s how that might show up:

You wake up tired, even after a full night of sleep, because your body never fully shifts into rest-andrepair mode.

You feel puffy, swollen, or inflamed, especially in the face, belly, or joints— without a clear reason why.

Your mood feels unstable. One moment calm, the next irritable or anxious. This could be inflammation affecting your brain chemistry.

Digestion becomes a guessing game. One day you’re fine, the next you’re bloated, constipated, or running to the bathroom.

Your skin becomes more reactive. Rashes, breakouts, hives, or sensitivities you didn’t used to have? Yes, inflammation could be at play.

You feel wired and tired at the same time. Exhausted but restless. Drained but unable to slow down. That’s a nervous

{

AT HOME WITH WELLNESS }

“Contrary to what we’ve been taught to believe, aging is not some arbitrary decline we’re sentenced to endure.

system stuck in fight-or-flight, often fueled by inflammation.

Your sensitivity increases. To light, sound, smells, stress, even other people. The threshold for what your body can handle gets lower and it feels like everything hits harder.

These are all signs that your body is stuck in a low-grade inflammatory state. That it’s been working overtime behind the scenes, trying to put out fires while you’re told to “just manage your stress” or “try getting more sleep.”

Inflammation is your body’s way of saying: I’m under pressure. And the longer that message gets ignored, the more your systems—hormonal, digestive, neurological, emotional—start to fray. Is Aging Gracefully Possible?

Absolutely. If you want to age with grace—not just in appearance, but in energy, clarity, and vitality—you have to address inflammation at the root.

That means:

Balancing blood sugar (spikes and crashes are inflammatory)

Supporting your gut health and microbiome (where 80% of your immune system lives)

Supporting drainage and lymphatic flow so your body can clear the waste Regulating your nervous system and building safety in the body (because constant fight-or-flight is inflammatory) Identifying hidden infections, toxins, and stressors your body has been quietly battling

Nourishing your body with the right

minerals, fats, and anti-inflammatory whole foods for your unique biology

This Is the Work We Do

If you’re starting to feel the effects of aging, there’s a good chance that what you’re really feeling is chronic inflammation, whether you realize it or not. But inflammation can be unwound. The body wants to heal. It knows how. But it needs the right inputs, the right conditions, and the right kind of support. At Home With Wellness brings you foundational and functional wellness to help you tend the fire at the root. From Nutritional Therapy to FLOWpresso to Brain Retraining to BioEnergetic Wellness, every service we offer is designed to lower inflammation from the inside out—so your body can return to what it was always designed to do: heal, adapt, and thrive.

“Fast forward to today, where every day I get to witness the power of nutrition and natural healing as it brings real-life examples of amazing recovery and vibrant health.”

“the most spectacular care I’ve ever received,” and “the reason I finally feel like myself again.”

She meets each of them with compassion, depth, and a determination to help them find the easiest, most effective steps forward.

What makes her so effective is that her work comes from lived experience. Brianna knows what it’s like to be dismissed by the system and left searching for answers. And that’s why she’s relentless about giving her clients both solutions and hope.

The results speak for themselves: from healing digestive issues and thyroid imbalances to helping clients regain energy, clarity, and confidence, Brianna’s work is rewriting health stories every single day.

Our FLOWpresso® specialist, Sarah, has quickly become so beloved by clients for the way she combines knowledge, kindness, and care. Over and over again, clients say she makes them feel completely at ease, walking them through the process with clarity and compassion so they know exactly what to expect. Her own path into wellness began years ago as she sought out natural ways to support her family’s health. That curiosity grew into a passion for exploring holistic modalities, and today, she’s a true lymphatic care expert. Sarah’s presence enhances the therapy itself. She brings a peaceful joy and attentiveness that makes every session restorative on multiple levels. It’s no wonder clients can’t wait to come back for more.

Connie, our Brain Retraining and Stress Management Coach, has a calm and steady presence that clients often describe as soothing and transformative. Her own journey taught her that, beyond the physical, healing also involves rewiring the nervous system and shifting the thought patterns that keep us stuck in stress. That insight is now the foundation of the work she shares every day.

Clients come to Connie overwhelmed by anxiety, restless sleep, or the weight of constant stress, and they leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more at peace. Many say she’s given them tools they can use for life: strategies that help them sleep through the night, reduce anxiety, and bring more harmony to their relationships. What makes Connie so special is how she embeds compassion in everything she does. She not only offers her clients practices, but walks with them through the process, creating safety, trust, and space for real change.

What is one client success story that has truly touched your heart and reminded you why you do this work?

A recent one: a young man, just 29 years old—a former NHL player—was dealing with many complicated issues. He had experienced over a decade of fatigue, excruciating headaches, severe inflammation and irritation of his skin, kidney stones, hot flashes of the face, cold flashes in the extremities, severe ADHD, vitiligo, digestive issues, jolts throughout the body, hair retracting into his scalp, and more. He had lost all hope after spending the past 10 years seeking help from over 20 doctors, specialists, and additional practitioners around the country.

We are just six months into our work together, but this client has surely turned the corner on his health. He is feeling better every week, every month - much better energy, focus, skin comfort,etc. The start to any MAJOR healing journey is slow and takes patience, but within a couple of months, he was through the slowest and hardest part of shifting his terrain and supporting his detox. He is well on his way and is so pleased and grateful to have found his body’s innate capacity to heal. His future is bright!

Looking ahead, what is your vision for At Home With Wellness and how do you hope to continue making an impact in the Rochester community and beyond?

I would love to make the FOUNDATIONAL wisdom and services that we offer more available and more known. Truly, the most efficient way for all of us to find our best and most vibrant health is to have the right foundations in place. This makes lifelong wellness possible. It also helps parents raise children who have the easiest and healthiest lives and learn with great ease, etc. The more we are able to serve people with these core foundations, the easier it will be for our community to find and attain their best all-around health— physical, emotional, and psychological. We are here to help make life easier and much more vibrant - for children to adults to seniors. Aging gracefully in our senior years is possible, but it starts with a foundational nutrition, mind & body, lymphatic supported, root cause approach. If you resonate with a foundational, holistic, root cause approach, we invite you to join us on your wellness journey.

{ THE POWER OF HER VISION

IN THE HOUSE THAT LOVE BUILT

Ronald McDonald House Charities Rochester, families find strength, comfort and compassion

When Amy and Brian welcomed their baby boy, Ian, into the world in Corning, New York, they imagined what every new parent does tiny clothes, sleepless nights fueled by joy, and dreams of watching their son grow strong and healthy. What they never imagined was that, just one week later, they would be thrust into a frightening world of medical alarms, weight loss, and unanswered questions. What they also never knew was that they would soon depend on the kindness of strangers… people they may never meet whose generosity would help carry them through the darkest chapter of their lives. Ian’s struggle began almost immediately. By the end of his first week, he was losing weight rapidly and refusing to eat. What followed was a blur of doctor’s visits, emergency calls, and long days spent in hospitals, watching a newborn slip further away from the picture-perfect future his parents had imagined. For five exhausting, terrifying months, Amy and Brian lived in a cycle of fear and desperation.

BY JOANNE RYAN

RMHCR is a home when home is far away…The first time Amy and Brian walked through the doors of the Ronald McDonald House on Westmoreland Drive, they were exhausted. Not just tired—hollow. They had been living in survival mode, sleeping in uncomfortable chairs and hospital waiting rooms, eating whatever they could grab between appointments. Suddenly, they were greeted by warm, kind smiles, the smell of a home-cooked meal, and the type of compassion that wraps around a hurting family like a blanket.

On Ian’s six-month birthday, after months of confusion and fear, finally a diagnosis that would change everything…doctors discovered the cause of his struggle: silent aspiration. Every time he tried to eat, food slipped into his lungs instead of his stomach. That same day, he received his first feeding tube, a moment that marked the beginning of a long medical journey.

Then came the words no parent ever expects to hear. The surgeon looked at Amy and Brian and gently said, “Our goal is to get him to age two. “Amy remembers the feeling vividly. “That’s not something any parent is prepared to hear. It shattered us.” And yet, even in that shattering moment, Amy recalls they were not alone. The Ronald McDonald House staff were right there at that moment with them steady, supportive, ready to carry them through the uncertainty ahead.

When Ian’s condition worsened, he was rushed by ambulance to Golisano Children’s Hospital in Rochester. The medical team mobilized immediately, but as Amy and Brian followed their tiny son through a maze of hallways and exam rooms, one question echoed constantly: How were they supposed to endure this?

What they didn’t yet know was that help, unexpected, comforting, and completely life-changing was waiting just steps away.

They had found refuge inside our House, they discovered comforts that many families never thought twice about: a warm bed, a quiet place to breathe, a shower, a homecooked dinner prepared by volunteers who cared deeply about the families they were serving. Inside the hospital, the Ronald McDonald Family Room offered a muchneeded oasis, a place to sit for a moment, sip coffee, cry privately, or simply close their eyes.

“When everything else was falling apart,” Amy later shared, “this was the one place where we felt held.”

The next two years were filled with surgeries, hospitalizations, and setbacks. Every time Ian needed care in Rochester, Amy and Brian packed bags, braced themselves, and returned to the House that had become a lifeline.

Families often tell us they arrive at our doors carrying fear, fatigue, and a feeling of isolation. We meet them with stability, compassion, meals prepared with love, and a space where they can simply be parents, not patients themselves. For Amy and Brian, our House became a place to regroup in moments when strength felt impossible. On his third birthday, after years of medical interventions and uncertainty, Ian looked at his feeding tube, tugged on it gently, and declared: “I don’t need this. Take it out.” A moment they were praying for. It was the

“And that kind of love…changes everything.”

interventions and uncertainty, Ian looked at his feeding tube, tugged on it gently, and declared: “I don’t need this. Take it out.” A moment they were praying for. It was the moment Amy and Brian finally exhaled.

Today, Ian is a thriving college student a 6’4” football player and psychology major with dreams, energy, and a life full of possibility. His journey from fragile newborn to confident young adult is nothing short of incredible. Here are thousands of stories, and behind each journey is another story, of community, compassion, and the quiet but powerful strength that comes from people who choose to care. Ian reflected on the support his family received. “The term ‘House’ doesn’t capture what they create,” he said. “It was a sanctuary.”

Every year, families like the Harpsters walk through the doors of the Ronald McDonald House carrying the heaviest burdens of their lives. Some are facing sudden emergencies. Others are navigating ongoing medical

many and this generosity ensures that these families never face those moments alone.

The community’s kindness provides:

• Warm, comfortable rooms so parents can stay close to their children

• Nutritious meals cooked and served with love

• Family Rooms inside hospitals where caregivers can rest

• Compassionate volunteers and staff who offer comfort during the hardest days

• A community of understanding a reminder that someone cares

Your generosity becomes the soft place

The Harpster family’s story is powerful not just because of Ian’s strength or his remarkable recovery, but because it reminds us of what happens when love is shared, one act of kindness at a time. Healing isn’t only found in operating rooms or medical charts. It’s also found in a warm meal after a long day. In a quiet bedroom where a worried parent can finally sleep. In a smile at the front desk that says… we’ve got you… just breathe.

Your support creates these moments. Families come to us filled with fear…and thanks to the generosity of our community they leave with the gift of hope…

As Amy and Brian look at their healthy and thriving son today, they know they didn’t walk this journey alone. They were carried by a community of people, most of whom they have never met, but like you …who chose to care deeply for the families that stayed at the house that love built.!

where parents can land when the world

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

ARE YOU LIVING IN TIME POVERTY?

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

I recently heard a single mom say she feels like she’s living in Time Poverty. Isn’t that so relatable? It’s a great new buzzword, but before you start hashtagging it, there are some things you should know. Let’s examine the case for and against this notion of Time Poverty.

The Case For Time Poverty

For single moms, Time is like a new main character lurking in the background of every scene of your life. You can feel Time surrounding you. Time feels heavy. It has a far greater presence now than you’ve probably ever experienced before becoming a single parent.

Time runs the life of a single mom. Not only are you carrying everything on your shoulders, but you do it all while punching a clock. That is, you’re doing it all, you’re doing it alone, and you’re doing it on a court-ordered schedule that could land you in jail if you mess it up (and oftentimes with a crazy ex who’s just dying to put you there).

Every clock becomes a countdown clock. Twenty minutes until they leave; 3 minutes left to put on their coats; the last 30 seconds to give out hugs and kisses goodbye and tell them I love them. You make it to drop-off on time, only to wait on someone who’s late. Again. Then there’s the ex who clocks and docks you if you’re a minute late, like an incompetent, insecure supervisor digging for reasons to fire you. (You know by now that’s just your toxic ex’s never-ending need to control you, right?)

One of the things about single parenting you might not realize until you’re in the thick of it is that time with your children is extremely limited.

BY CHRISTINE CONTE

Lazy weekend pajama days are cut short by visitation pick-ups or drop-offs.

Just when you settle into the movie you’ve been looking forward to watching with your kids all week, Dad is at the door with the homework assignment accidentally left behind at his house.

When her heart has been broken for the first time and she’s just about to confide in you, Dad calls, interrupting a precious moment you can’t get back. Married moms can get back to those moments more seamlessly. First, the presence of Dad is generally never an ‘interruption’. He’s a welcome addition to the fun and conversation. Second, married moms have 525,600 minutes in a year to get back to those precious moments. Single moms have half that, if they’re lucky. Bottom line, a single mom feels like there’s never enough time to be with her kids.

If you’ve arranged your life and schedule such that it’s impossible to get from point A to point B without mastering time travel, then yes, you’re in Time Poverty. Finally, if a single mom believes she lives in Time Poverty, she’s actually right! She’s right because of The Law of Attraction, which is simply this: “Whatever you believe, will be.”

Now let’s consider a very different perspective on Time as a single mom…

The Case Against Time Poverty

Unlike financial poverty, you weren’t born into Time Poverty. Nor did a divorce or becoming a single parent create Time Poverty for you.

While it might seem like you are constantly watching the clock, single moms don’t actually live in Time Poverty. Time Poverty is actually just a frame of mind.

If you’ve adopted this mindset, how did this idea of Time Poverty arise for you? Several things could have helped you get there. The bottom line is, you might have unintentionally created this for yourself, or you’ve allowed someone else to push you into this mindset.

Here are the most common reasons* you might be experiencing Time Poverty. *Trigger Warning: Some of these might be hard to hear.

1. It’s socially acceptable (and appealing) to be short on time.

Believe it or not, some people get a psychological boost from feeling deprived (about anything in life, actually). Time has become a classic, cool, hip, fashionable thing to be lacking in the twenty-first century. It speaks to your busy factor. A high ‘busy factor’ can make you appear more valuable to others. This stems from the simple rule of supply and demand: if there’s not enough of something to go around, its value increases. So, you might be tempted to believe that if you lower your availability, it increases your value, raises interest in you, or creates more buzz for you. But you can’t increase your value this way. What increases instead is your stress and overwhelm, not your value. The need to feel valued is understandable, especially for single moms who often have a shortage of emotional support, acknowledgement, and validation.

“Conversely, chronic lateness creates unpredictability. Irregularity establishes a lack of trust. Low inertia sets an atmosphere of disinterest, apathy, and non-productivity.”

The solution here is to increase your value through healthier methods. The truth is, a mindset of lack is never a good start to feeling good about yourself. Create an emotional support system through relationships (loved ones, family, and friends), healthy habits and hobbies, self-improvement, and by consistently making good choices for yourself and your children. Seek those who lift you, inspire you, and affirm your positive beliefs. Seek out personal development and find healthy ways to gain the emotional support you need. A great coach can help!

2. Your ex is still controlling you.

You might be allowing your ex to control you by placing high demands on your time. His only access to you now is through the children. He might control your schedule by controlling the kids’ schedules. Your ability to be in two places at once is impossible. He can easily turn this into “she doesn’t show up for the kids” or “she can’t do her job of parenting” to a willing ear or family court judge.

Part of the solution for this is straightforward. If he gets the kids involved in twelve different activities, then he is committing himself only to being present for those activities. He is committing you to nothing. You commit to being available for the things you register the kids to do. You commit him to nothing. If you can make it to those twelve other things he registered them for, great! But it’s not your commitment – it is his commitment. He does not control your time. Draw that line, momma!

The other part of the solution requires strict boundary setting and removing all the ways your ex still controls you. Life coaching can help with this.

3. You fear what others think of you.

This ties into reason #2 above. Society sets an expectation that for every concert, play, game, debate, contest, and event your child participates in, you must be present. This is impractical for working parents. Furthermore, it is simply not true. The sense of being physically present for everything your child participates in puts undue pressure on all types of parents and creates unnecessary guilt. For the single parent with a boss, it becomes impossible.

The solution is to let go of the need to be present for everything your kid does. If you can be there, that’s great! By all means, please show up! But if you cannot, make sure your child understands your commitments and how those commitments impact him and the family overall. So, if your child asks, “Mom, are you coming to my game today?”, don’t just tell him “No.” Tell him why you can’t be there. Make it understandable and relevant. Make sure he understands how it is the proper decision for the family (including him) overall. An alternative is to include the child in making the choice. For example, you could say, “I can leave work early once this week. So, I could go to either your game or your concert, but not both. Which one would you prefer I attend?” A Parenting Coach can help you set boundaries, communicate, and connect with your child.

4. Your belief system has been hijacked.

You’ve bought into the myth that single parenting is impossible, wrong, and hard. Single parenting is hard, but it is neither wrong nor impossible. First, it is part of your life’s journey; nothing more and nothing less. It is not wrong. Second, women have been single-parenting for centuries, many with no running water or electricity. When you build the defenses around a belief system of it being “impossible”, you may have unintentionally made it impossible for yourself; once again, that’s The Law of Attraction showing up!

This is also solvable. Adopt a new belief system around single parenting. First, single parenting is exactly where you are meant to be in this moment. It is clearly marked on the map of your life’s journey. Second, single parenting is possible. You need to learn how to set boundaries, limit your child’s extracurriculars, and learn how to say “no” when appropriate. Seek help for any of these things you don’t know how to do on your own. A great Life Coach can help you with all of this.

5. You are disorganized.

If you are disorganized, chances are your relationship with Time has always felt like you’re living in Time Poverty. Disorganization doesn’t go hand-inhand with single parenting, although single parenting is a great test of your organizational skills. Disorganization, however, does tend to go hand-in-hand with time challenges. Struggles with punctuality, not getting things done on

{ ROCKSTAR SINGLE MOM LIFE }

“You’ve bought into the myth that single parenting is impossible, wrong, and hard. Single parenting is hard, but it is neither wrong nor impossible.”

time, missing deadlines, etc., can all be symptoms of disorganization.

This solution is a bit trickier. If you are disorganized, chances are you have been that way for a while, perhaps your entire life. Disorganization can unexpectedly show up with drastic life changes, chronic schedule disruptions, or when significant relationships start or end. You could get help through professional coaching, therapy, or other methods and modalities that can help you become more organized.

6. You actually don’t get enough scheduled time with your kids.

When you are under the thumb of a controlling ex or fall victim to a family court judge who sympathizes with Dad, you might find the time allotted to you with your children isn’t actually enough, or doesn’t work well with your schedule. This can be the result of a greedy, controlling, spiteful ex and his ability to charm the court while playing victim. It can also be the result of you not using your resources (your voice, setting boundaries, the proper lawyer, etc.) to protect your relationship with your children.

This solution includes hiring the best lawyer you can afford and going back to court to have the visitation schedule revised. Have your lawyer explain that your ability to connect with your children is impaired due to a visitation schedule that conflicts with your unavoidable work schedule, etc. The better lawyers will know what to say and how to say it. Also, setting boundaries and learning

to speak up can be helped by working with a great Life Coach.

Do you live in Time Poverty or not?

The experience of Time Poverty depends on your relationship with Time.

Have you ever considered that your relationship with Time determines not only your punctuality, but also your reliability and the pace at which you live? These have a great impact on your relationships and success in life, in general.

For example, punctuality creates dependability. Reliability establishes trustworthiness. Pace sets movement, momentum, and eventual accomplishment. From this, you can see how your relationship with Time can set you up for success in life and all its aspects.

Conversely, chronic lateness creates unpredictability. Irregularity establishes a lack of trust. Low inertia sets an atmosphere of disinterest, apathy, and non-productivity. It’s easy to see from this example how your relationship with Time can set you up for setbacks in life and relationships.

There is an energy to your relationship with Time. The more you see Time as being abundant, the more time will show up for you. Likewise, a mindset of lack of Time diminishes the time you have available to you. This can be better understood by learning about how energy works, the Law of Attraction, and Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. But, to save you some time, it is how you see

time (perspective) and your relationship with it (energy).

Start by defining the gap between your current relationship with Time and your desired relationship with Time. Then work with a qualified coach to help you bridge that gap, change your relationship with Time, and help you get out of the mindset of Time Poverty.

Christine Conte is an ICF-PCC Credentialed Certified Life & Leadership Coach, a Certified Confidence Coach, and a Certified Parenting Coach. Christine is a published author, speaker, and she conducts workshops on a variety of topics, including empowerment, communication, life purpose, & vision boards. As a Rockstar Single Mom for 18 years, Christine raised two incredible daughters on her own and on her own terms despite many impediments. She’s helped women become empowered in the face of difficult life challenges, particularly divorce and single parenting, as a professional coach for over eight years. You can contact Christine at: www.ChristineConteCoaching.com and www.DivorceCoachingSystem.com. You can also join the Rockstar Single Mom Facebook community at www.facebook. com/groups/rockstarsinglemom.

FINDING EASE IN THE HOLIDAY SEASON

The holidays have a way of stirring things up, don’t they? Even when everything looks fine on the outside, with lights twinkling, cookies baking, and holiday cards lined up neatly on the mantel, but on the inside, something can feel tender, unsettled, or downright painful. For some, it is the ache of loss. For others, it is the tension of being with family who do not understand you, where every conversation feels like walking through an emotional minefield. And for many, it is the quiet loneliness of not being invited anywhere at all.

Wherever you find yourself this season, please know this. You are not broken for feeling the way you do. The holidays are complex because we are complex. This time of year magnifies what is already living in our hearts, both the warmth and the wounds.

Welcome to Breathing Space, a monthly column where we slow down, come home to ourselves, and make room for gentleness in a world that often asks us to rush. I’m Meg Tobin, LMHC, a somatic psychotherapist, retreat leader, and death doula. Here, we explore how to tend our nervous systems and nurture emotional well-being with honesty, softness, and a little bit of courage.

Let’s begin with a breath. In through

BY MEG TOBIN

the nose and out through the mouth, long and slow. Feel your shoulders drop, your jaw soften, your belly loosen. You have just signaled to your nervous system that you are safe enough to relax. That is always where we begin.

When Family Feels Hard

If spending time with family feels stressful, you are not alone. You can love your family and still feel overwhelmed by them. You can want to show up and still want to leave within minutes. It does not make you unkind. It makes you human.

Before you walk in the door, pause. Notice your breath. Notice your body. Ask yourself, what do I need to feel steady here? Maybe it is a clear boundary, like deciding in advance how long you will stay. Maybe it is choosing not to participate in conversations that drain you. Boundaries are not meant to punish. They are meant to protect your peace.

And if things get heated, try this gentle reset: exhale longer than you inhale. That longer out-breath tells your brain you are not in danger. When we are being chased, literally or emotionally, our breath shortens. A long exhale is your body’s way of saying, “I am safe and I can soften now.”

When Family Is Not an Option

For many, the holidays bring grief instead of gathering. Maybe someone you love has died. Maybe you have stepped away from family to protect your well-being. Maybe you simply find yourself alone this year.

Please know this, too: solitude does not mean emptiness. Being alone is not a flaw. It can mean space. Space where healing becomes possible. Space to rest. Space to create new rituals that match your current life, not the one you used to have. Light a candle for the ones you miss. Cook their favorite meal. Play a song that reminds you of them. Let your grief have a place at the table. It belongs there.

And if your family was never the safe harbor you wished it could be, remember that chosen family counts too. Sometimes family is the friend who checks on you, the neighbor who offers a smile, or the coworker who brightens your day. Love is not limited to bloodlines. It finds its way to us in unexpected ways.

Grounding in What Is Real

When emotions start to spin, grounding in the present can bring you back to yourself. Touch something solid. Feel your feet on the floor. Look around and notice what you can see, smell, and hear.

{ SHIFT+CONTROL }

{ BREATHING SPACE }

“Wherever you find yourself this season, please know this. You are not broken for feeling the way you do. The holidays are complex because we are complex.”

what you can see, smell, and hear. These sensory anchors pull you out of the storm and back into the steady truth of now.

You can also create your own “holiday nervous system toolkit”:

A calming playlist or sound that centers you

A comforting scent like lavender or pine

A soft blanket or scarf that feels like safety

A trusted friend you can text, even with just a heart emoji

Your goal is not to pretend. It is to stay connected to what is real for you.

A Gentle Reframe

What if this season were not about performing joy, but about honoring truth? Maybe joy looks quieter this year. What if it can be a moment of stillness outside, a warm cup in your hands, or a genuine smile from someone who understands you?

Wherever you are this season, may you remember this. You do not have to earn belonging. You do

not have to prove worthiness. You already are enough, exactly as you are: grieving and grounded, lonely and loved, messy and radiant. It is all true. All at the same time. Take a long, slow exhale. Let it guide you back to yourself.

From my heart to yours, Meg

PS: Check out my 5-Day Nervous System Reset course to grab some more effective tools to manage the holidays! Only $27 right now!

TRAVELING WITH SHAUNA

THE GIFT OF TRAVEL

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY SHAUNA DIXON

Experiences That Last Longer Than Things

The holiday season is full of traditions - the tree, the lights, the gifts wrapped in glitter and bows. But have you ever stopped to think about what lasts after the paper is tossed and the decorations are packed away?

For most of us, it’s not the things we remember - it’s the moments. The laughter, the shared meals, the feeling of being somewhere that makes your heart light up. That’s why more and more people are skipping the “stuff” and choosing to give (or ask for) something truly special this season: the gift of travel.

The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Travel is more than a getaway - it’s a memory in the making. When you gift someone an experience, you’re giving them anticipation, connection, and stories they’ll tell for years. Whether it’s a couples’ trip to reconnect, a multigenerational family cruise, or a solo retreat to recharge, travel has a way of deepening relationships and refreshing the soul.

cozy cabin in the Adirondacks or the Finger Lakes.

• A tropical escape for the whole family to Mexico, Jamaica, or the Dominican Republic - especially if your “white Christmas” would be better as white sand!

• A river cruise through Europe (AmaWaterways does beautiful holiday sailings) with markets, mulled wine, and twinkling lights along the Rhine or Danube.

So, we decided to skip the shopping and spend Christmas on a cruise. We took a 7-night Caribbean sailing over Christmas week - and loved it so much, we did it again the following year. The entire ship was decorated for the holidays, from sparkling trees in the atrium to wreaths in every lounge. There was caroling, special dinners, Christmasthemed shows, and yes… Santa even made an appearance!

It was festive, magical, and completely stress-free. No wrapping, no cooking, no shoveling - just warm sun, turquoise water, and time together. That trip reminded me that experiences like that are the real gifts: laughter at sunset, new places explored together, and memories that last long after the ornaments come down.

• An experience-based gift like a cooking class in Italy, a wine tour in South Africa, or a wellness retreat in Costa Rica.

This year, consider swapping a few wrapped boxes for boarding passes. Instead of matching pajamas, what about matching passports?

Some of my favorite ideas for “travel as a gift” include:

• A surprise weekend getaway to a

The beauty of gifting travel is that it fits every personality and price point. It can be a full vacation, a contribution toward a dream trip, or even a “future travel fund” for the year ahead.

Why We Traded Presents for Passports

A few years ago, my own family realized something: none of us really needed anything. What we did need was time together - away from work, away from stress, and definitely away from the snow!

The Perfect Gift for Any Season

Whether you’re looking for something cozy this winter or planning ahead for spring break, travel can be the perfect gift for yourself or someone you love.

A few ideas that make incredible experience gifts:

• A New Year’s wellness reset at a spa resort in St. Lucia or Costa Rica.

• A family escape to Disney or Universal during the winter school break.

• A couples’ getaway to Europe in the spring - think Paris in bloom or a Greek island adventure.

• A girlfriends’ trip to a vineyard in Portugal or a yoga retreat in Bali.

{ TRAVELING WITH SHAUNA }

“Travel is more than a getaway - it’s a memory in the making. When you gift someone an experience, you’re giving them anticipation, connection, and stories they’ll tell for years.”

Travel isn’t just about where you goit’s how it makes you feel. And that’s a feeling no wrapped gift can replace.

Let This Be the Year You Choose Connection

If there’s one thing the past few years have taught us, it’s how valuable time and connection truly are. The holidays can be chaotic, but they can also be a beautiful opportunity to slow down, reflect, and plan something meaningful for the months ahead.

As a Dream Vacations travel advisor, I love helping travelers find experiences that match their season of life - whether that means celebrating milestones, reconnecting as a family, or simply taking a break to breathe and be present. So, this year, maybe it’s time to give (or

ask for!) something that lasts longer than a sweater or gadget. Give the gift of travel - and give yourself the joy of watching those you love light up when they experience the world.

Let’s Plan Your Next Adventure

Feeling inspired? Let’s make it happen. Whether you’re dreaming of Christmas in the Caribbean, a romantic river cruise through Europe, or a surprise getaway for the new year, I’ll take care of the planning so all you have to do is pack and enjoy.

When you’re ready to turn your travel dreams into real plans, reach out - I’d love to help you design your next adventure. Because the best gifts aren’t found under the tree - they’re discovered when you explore the world.

Want more travel inspiration, insider tips, destination ideas, and first dibs on exclusive experiences? Join Shauna’s exclusive Facebook community, Travel by Shauna (@travelbyshauna), to join others who love to travel share stories, ideas, and destination inspiration.

About the Author

Shauna Dixon is a Rochester-based travel advisor who helps women and families turn dream vacations into stress-free realities. She believes every woman deserves a trip that feeds her soul. Whether it’s a weekend in the Finger Lakes, a tropical getaway, or a bucket-list journey abroad. She can be reached at MoonAndBackEscapes. com, sdixon@dreamvacations.com, or 585-542-8821.

EASING HOLIDAY HEADACHES

BY KAITLYN VITTOZZI

Headaches can arise from a variety of causes, so please consult your doctor if you are experiencing them. Personally, I struggled with headaches for years without realizing that low iron levels were a contributing factor. In hindsight, I wish I could reclaim all the days I spent in bed because of them. As we approach the holiday season, there are certain triggers that may increase the likelihood of headaches: overbooked schedules, extended periods of sitting, stressful family gatherings, excessive alcohol consumption, and last-minute deadlines (whether it be cookies to bake or year-end reports).

Tips for Preventing Headaches:

• Hydrate: Staying hydrated is essential. If you attend holiday parties, try alternating a glass of water with each cocktail. One comforting way to begin your day, especially during these darker mornings, is with a warm glass of lemon water.

• Scale Back on Phone Time: The darker months often lead to more sitting, which can result in increased screen time and tech-neck-induced tension headaches. Try to be present to positive experiences this season. For example, I recently deleted Facebook and Instagram from my phone to reduce neck strain and increase productivity, allowing more time for what truly matters. You might find, after a couple of days, that you do not miss them.

• Sleep: Insufficient rest can make headaches much worse, especially if you have to wake up early after a late night. Plan ahead and, if you

have use-it-or-lose-it paid time off, consider taking a day for yourself to rest and recharge.

• Stay Nourished: Make sure you are eating a variety of foods from all six food groups during this time of year. Although this is not a concern limited to the holiday months, consider consulting your primary care physician or a registered dietitian to ensure you are not missing any essential nutrients. Do not hesitate to request bloodwork if you have concerns about possible deficiencies.

The following sequence is by no means a fix for all headaches but if you have stress or tension induced headaches, this could be helpful. Hold each pose for at least ten breaths – these could be uncomfortable but should be totally pain free.

1. Arm circles: Standing tall, start to circle one arm back a time. Focus on moving one shoulder blade at a time, feeling as if your shoulder blades are initiating the movement. Try not to let your head tip forward.

2. Sphinx with blanket under belly: You can use a blanket or a small throw pillow from the couch for this. Lying face down on the floor, slide a blanket under your belly. Prop yourself up on your elbows. If you work from home this is a great way to work from your laptop for at least a few minutes a day.

3. Constructive rest: Lie flat on the ground without your phone. Breathe into the tightness in your head and neck rather than pushing it away for

a minute. Then for the next minute breathe into your pelvis. See which one helps more and do that for another minute.

4. Supported fish: You can use two yoga blocks here but if you don’t have them, a stack of books or two thick stacks of blankets would work. Slide one yoga block on the low high under the bottom tips of your shoulder blades, and one at a taller height underneath your head. Knees can be bent or straight.

5. Scorpion: Lie face down on the floor, open both arms out like a t-shape. Bend your right elbow up toward the ceiling, squeeze the bottom tips of your shoulder blades together (so you aren’t shrugging). This may be enough stretch, but if you need more, bend your right knee and start to roll right hip on top of left. If your top foot doesn’t find the ground don’t worry about it. Repeat on the other side.

6. Downdog at the wall: This can also feel great with hands on the kitchen counter. Keep your spine long and put a little bend behind your knees, hinge at the hip (not your waistline) and stretch your arms forward to press into the wall.

Questions? Visit PenfieldYogaTherapy. com for more info. Have a healthy holiday season!

Love, Kaitlyn

SCENT OF THE SEASON

BY LORI BRUTON

A Journey into Comfort, Clarity, and Abundance

For women ready to breathe deeper, live richer, and say yes to themselves.

The scent of cinnamon and clove fills the air. A tray of cookies cools on the counter. Outside, the wind carries whispers of winter. Inside, I pause, hands wrapped around a warm mug of tea with a drop of peppermint oil, diffuser mist of Christmas Spirit filling the air.

This is the season of remembering. Of longing. Of letting go.

And this year, I’m choosing to let go of the pressure to do it all. I’m choosing to not only give but to receive.

When You Can’t Go Far, Go Deep

Not every journey requires a suitcase. Some of the most powerful ones begin in stillness, in the quiet ache of missing someone, in the fatigue that lingers even after rest, in the whispered prayer for healing.

These oils don’t just scent the air. They shift the atmosphere. Success Comes in the Recovery

I used to think success meant constant motion of doing more, reaching further, pushing harder. But I’ve

Scents That Stir the Soul

Let me introduce you to a few of my seasonal companions:

BY KAITLYN VITTOZZI

I’ve learned that healing doesn’t always come on a plane or in a spa (ahhh, a spa sounds nice, though). Sometimes, it comes in the form of Peace & Calming on your wrists, Frankincense on your heart, or Abundance in your diffuser as you write your next chapter.

learned that true success often comes in the recovery. In the pause. In the prayer. In the moment you choose to honor your body, your boundaries, and your belief that something better is coming.

I’m in recovery mode now, mostly physically. And I believe that’s where the breakthrough lives. That’s where wellness deepens. That’s where abundance begins.

• Abundance: a rich blend of myrrh, cinnamon bark, patchouli, orange, clove, ginger, spruce, and frankincense. It smells like hope, like hearth, like possibility.

• Stress Away: a tropical exhale in a bottle, perfect for when the to-do list grows longer than your energy.

• Peace & Calming: like a lullaby for your nervous system.

• Thieves: spicy, protective, and perfect for immune support.

• Lavender: soft and soothing like a warm blanket for your soul.

• Peppermint: crisp and clarifying, perfect for mental focus and travel fatigue.

I use them to anchor my days, to soften my nights, and to remind myself that it’s okay to choose comfort.

Travel Light, Travel Well

Whether you’re visiting family or

“Because sometimes, the most important trip you’ll take is the one back to yourself.”

staying close to home, these oils travel beautifully:

• A roller blend of Valor to give you balance and courage

• Thieves Spray for hotel rooms, airplane trays, or shopping carts

• Lavender for restful sleep, especially in unfamiliar places

• A mini diffuser to transform any space into a sanctuary

They also make thoughtful gifts, especially for women who give so much and rarely receive.

A Business That Smells Like Freedom

I didn’t start using oils to build a business. I started because I needed emotional and physical support. But over time, I realized something beautiful: sharing what I love could also support me back.

Now, I gently invite others to join me, not with pressure, but with presence. If you’re already using and loving these oils, you can:

• Get your products paid for

• Earn steady income by sharing authentically

• Build a business that honors your energy and your values

You don’t need to chase people. You don’t need to perform. You need alignment. You need a message that resonates. You have greatness in your hands. You have greatness in you.

Your Pace, Your Path

There’s a myth in the wellness world and in business that says success only comes to those who grind. But I’ve learned something different: you don’t have to grind to grow.

I’ve built my Young Living business in a way that honors my energy, my rhythms, and my values. I choose when to plug into classes, when to rest, and when to share. I get to choose the pace that works for me. I don’t chase. I don’t compete. I believe we complete each other.

If you’re looking for a path that lets you:

• Grow at your own pace

• Say yes without pressure

• Be supported without being overwhelmed

• And build something beautiful on your terms …then this might be exactly what you’ve been searching for.

You’ll have access to classes, recipes, resources, and a warm community. You’ll be invited, encouraged, and empowered. This isn’t a race. It’s a return. A return to yourself, your values, your wellness, your abundance.

A Holiday Blessing

This season may your home be filled with warmth.

May your body be supported.

May your spirit be filled with love. And may you know that your longing

for peace, wellness, abundance and purpose is yours for the taking. Just say, “Yes!” Accept this genuine invitation.

If you’re ready to begin, here’s your next step… https://www.youngliving. com/us/en/referral/1084061

• Take a peek and discover the wonder.

• Valuable gifts for yourself or someone else in any season.

Message me for details. You’re worth it.

Because sometimes, the most important trip you’ll take is the one back to yourself.

MEET TINA AND SLIPPERY SOCKS

BY THE ACS TEAM

Tina

*Transferred to us from Mitchell County Animal Rescue 4/30/25

*It was told to us she was abandoned in North Carolina by her previous owners and was found alone and underweight.

* Tina stayed with us for nearly 6 months before she was adopted

*It wasn’t until she went on WETM local news that her now adopters discovered her and fell in love - they came a couple of days later!

While in our care, Tina worked on resource guarding, jumping on people, and basic manners.

She is incredibly intelligent, picks up on training so quickly, very treat motivated.

Estimated to be almost 2 years old

She is dog selective but went into a home where she is the only dog with a family that understands her needs and is able to provide the care and support necessary.

Slippery Socks

*Slippery Socks came into our care 9/15/25 on rehoming status due to landlord restrictions

*He is estimated to be nearly 5 years old, a male, tuxedo

*Has Cerebellar Hypoplasia (a

he was very fearful coming into our care and displayed his fear through aggression.

We worked on his litterbox accessibility by trying different methods such as storage bin lid, low sided litterbox, and eventually found what worked - a baby pool with the entrance cut down for him to be able to go in without having to climb in.

She is doing well in her home, settling in nicely. Is working through meeting new people and understanding it’s okay

She is living with cats that have set their boundaries and all are coexisting nicely

neurological condition that affects the fine motor skills and stability in cats) and was having trouble using the litterbox in the home.

We housed him in the adoption office to allow him more supervision and less stressful living environment as

We knew getting his litterbox disability accessible for him would increase his likelihood for adoption so that was our main focus for him.

He was adopted exactly a month after coming into our care.

He is doing great in his new home - loves food and is quite the talker - he makes his new family laugh when it comes to dinner time - they say they love him so much and he is a great addition to their family

Check out Animal Care Sanctuary at www.acs.com

Are you concerned about yourself or someone else?

Are you grieving the loss of someone to suicide? Do you want to learn more about suicide prevention?

Who We Are

Partners for Suicide Prevention is committed to ensuring that community members of all ages have access to accurate suicide prevention resources to help themselves and/or a loved one. As a multi-partner coalition, facilitated by the Mental Health Association of Rochester, we promote a collaborative approach to raise awareness on suicide prevention, intervention, post-vention, and recovery.

We are dedicated to providing hope and resilience through community collaboration.