March-April 2017

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TANISHA RUSH Vice President of Community and Economic Development, Fifth Third Bank

MONICA BANKS HINES A Seasoned Financial Advisor

EMILY FEIN

Directing programs at GSNEO

DANIELLE FLEMISTER

Entrepreneur/ Venture Initiatives Advisor

FREE EVENT - REGISTER AT www.empowerwomen2017.eventbrite.com

EMPOWERING NEO WOMEN! 2nd Annual FINANCIAL LITERACY AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES C O N F E R E N C E

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APRIL 28th, 2017 CLEVELAND OHIO!

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Beletu (Bele') Wondwossen

Founder / Publisher Shelley M. Shockley

Managing Editor Writers Shelley M. Shockley Ruby Lee Gamble A. Michele Garrett Kim Brown

Creative Bele’ Wondwossen

Cover Story: Shelley M. Shockley Photo: Eric Benson

Contributors LADIES! WOULD YOU LIKE TO...

- START A BUSINESS - GROW YOUR BUSINESS - MANAGE MONEY SMARTLY ?

APRIL 28 —2017— 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

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Michelle Phillips Fay Stephanie Phelps Deborah Prince Kimberly Smith-Woodford

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Advertising Sales ads@phenomenalwoman.me 216.702.0845 Phenomenal Woman Magazine A subsidiary of Atlantic Creative Productions 5247 Wilson Mills Road #141 Cleveland, OH 44143

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Thanks to our generous sponsors and supporters!

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Material may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form of this publication without prior permission from the publisher.

Produced and printed in OHIO, USA.

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CONTENTS

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MONICA BANKS HINES

COVER

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Financial Advisor

EMILY FEIN Directing programs at GSNEO

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DANIELLE FLEMISTER Entrepreneur/ Venture Initiatives Advisor

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Shangani Fashions

Development, Fifth Third Bank

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Delicious Recipes

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Where African Fashions Meet the Stylish Traveler 4 â–’ MARCH-APRIL 2017

TANISHA RUSH Vice President of Community & Economic

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Movie Reviews

From the Editor: Shelley M. Shockley Celebrating phenomenal women making history today This month we are highlighting women in finance, and female entrepreneurs offering a glimpse into their lives and the path they have traveled with the hope of offering inspiration to our readers. This is also the month set aside to celebrate the strength vitality and myriad accomplishments of women.

Women are the supreme jugglers and often we don't feel as beautiful, capable and resilient as we truly are, so we at times need to be reminded of just how special we are. I can't think of anyone who has summed up our value any better than the late great Maya Angelou in the lyrical,

Phenomenal Woman Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.

I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size But when I start to tell them, They think I'm telling lies.

I say, It's in the reach of my arms The span of my hips, The stride of my step, The curl of my lips.

I'm a woman Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman, That's me.

I walk into a room Just as cool as you please, And to a man, The fellows stand or Fall down on their knees.

Then they swarm around me, A hive of honey bees.

I say, It's the fire in my eyes, And the flash of my teeth, The swing in my waist, And the joy in my feet.

I'm a woman Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman, That's me.

Men themselves have wondered What they see in me.

They try so much But they can't touch My inner mystery.

When I try to show them They say they still can't see.

I say, It's in the arch of my back, The sun of my smile, The ride of my breasts, The grace of my style.

I'm a woman Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman, That's me.

Now you understand Just why my head's not bowed.

I don't shout or jump about Or have to talk real loud.

When you see me passing It ought to make you proud.

I say, It's in the click of my heels, The bend of my hair, the palm of my hand, The need of my care, 'Cause I'm a woman Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman, That's me.

After reading that poem are you uplifted, exhilarated and ready to show the world just how awesome you are? If that doesn't inspire you and have you ready to conquer the world keep reading this edition where women similar to you are showing the world, just how phenomenal they are.

If you're like me and you jump right to the cover story, you'll have the pleasure of meeting Tanisha Rush, vice president of Community & Economic Development for Fifth Third Bank. Tanisha stumbled into her career in banking, but she also realized what her true passion was and has effectively transferred that calling into helping individuals and communities. Check out her story, it may help you reevaluate an aspect of your life.

Monica Banks Hines has remained true to her strength of looking for the story or the problem and finding a solution with the difference being today she's learning the story of your finances and your future as opposed to the wonderful work you're doing in the community. Before becoming a financial adviser with Prudential Advisors Hines was a news reporter, public affairs producer and director where she worked to raise awareness about situations and ask the tough questions. Today the tough questions resolve around where you are financially and where you want to be in the future. If tackling your financial health is a priority, reading Hines' profile could be the push you need.

The Girl Scouts of North East Ohio are teaching our future leaders to nurture confidence and skills at a young age so that they never question how phenomenal they are. Offering insight on these programs and their success is Emily Fein, director of programs. Fein will share her story of being raised in a family that stressed thinking outside the box and pursuing whatever your heart desires. In her role Emily, a successful scout, now helps to develop the programs for today's scouting experience.

If you believe in following your dreams, then Danielle Flemister is just the woman you want to know. From an early age, Flemister's family stressed the importance of education and to add some “meat” to their dialogue the family rewarded she and her siblings for good grades. That incentive helped the young Danielle understand the rewards associated with achievement. It didn't stop with financial rewards for a job well done in school, no this entrepreneur in the making started a lemonade stand which proved to her that if you do something well people will pay you for your services. Today, as the venture initiatives adviser at Kent State University, she helps others to move their ideas into businesses. Additionally, she has developed her own clothing line. If being your own boss is what you're looking for, be sure to check out this feature.

As you can see we have a wealth of features for you to choose from, so sit back and begin your journey into the world of finance and entrepreneurship.

Happy Spring, I'll meet you back here in early summer! www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 5

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Tri-C Announces ‘Cleveland Eats’ Culinary Festival John Horton john.horton@tri-c.edu

Downtown event Sept.

15-16 will showcase top chefs and the region's food culture The region's food culture, chef-driven restaurants, craft beer scene and farms will be celebrated in September during Cleveland Eats, a two-day culinary festival organized by the Hospitality Management Center of Excellence at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®).

The food and entertainment festival will take place Sept. 15-16, a Friday and Saturday, on the Mall B outdoor event space above the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland.

Organizers and some of the city's top chefs announced plans for the inaugural Cleveland Eats during a Wednesday night gathering at Tri-C's Hospitality Management Center, located on downtown's Public Square.

“The table is being set for an amazing experience in the heart of the city,” said Michael Huff, the College's dean of hospitality management. “Some of the finest food in the nation comes out of Cleveland's kitchens. We want to give people a taste of what's here.”

Cleveland Eats will showcase the hospitality industry's impact on the Northeast Ohio economy while highlighting Tri-C's vital role in training the skilled workers needed to continue the region's restaurant renaissance.

A cooperative of corporate and civic partners is staging the festival, and a Culinary Council guiding the planning process represents a “Who's Who” from Cleveland's food scene.

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The Council includes Ben Bebenroth, Jonathan Bennett, Zack Bruell, Brandt Evans, Heather Haviland, Chris Hodgson, Christopher Kafcsak, Douglas Katz, Karen Monath, Jonathon Sawyer, Karen Small, April Thompson, Eric Wells and Zdenko Zovkic.

The family-friendly festival will include culinary competitions and classes; food from the region's top restaurants; craft beer tastings and kiosks; and musicians, dancers, artists and other entertainers.

A gala preceding the festival will raise scholarship money for Tri-C culinary students and the city's next generation of great chefs. The Cuyahoga Community College Foundation will host the event at Tri-C's Hospitality Management Center and Pura Vida restaurant on Public Square.

Details on schedules, participants and pricing will be released closer to the event. For more information, visit www.tri-c.edu/clevelandeats.

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Monica Banks Hines, A Seasoned Financial Advisor separate client agreement. Offering insurance and securities products and services as a registered representative of Pruco (Member SIPC) and an agent of issuing insurance companies. She continues to help her clients with risk management, asset management, retirement planning strategies and estate planning strategies.

Hines attended Indiana University in Bloomington and received her BA in Telecommunications and attended graduate school at Cleveland State University. She held several jobs as a news reporter for radio and television stations in both Indiana and California before moving to Cleveland to host and produce a Public Affairs talk show on WUAB - TV 43; a short time later she was promoted to Public Affairs Director. She says, “The most exciting thing about working in TV was the people I met. I met a few celebrities, but the everyday people were the most intriguing. I produced and hosted multiple shows during my tenure, and my formula was to identify a problem, need or concern and then talk about solutions.” Having discussed the symptoms of a rare and deadly disease on one of her shows, Hines was delighted to later receive a thank you- from a viewer whose life was saved! “That was more gratifying than winning my Emmy Award. Making a true difference in a life is what motivates me to do what I do.” Hines added.

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onica Banks Hines, who hails from the Hoosier state, was born to working class parents and grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana prior to settling in Cleveland, Ohio where she currently works as a Financial Advisor at Prudential Advisors. Her upbringing in a picturesque rural area enabled her to witness stark contrast of a diverse community integrated with Blacks and Whites as well as the contrast of the ultra wealthy verses poverty stricken. This exposure at a young age gave witness to the dynamics of our complex society, and had a profound influence on her values and desire to contribute to society at large!

Today, Hines offers investment advisory services through Pruco Securities, LLC, (Pruco) doing business as Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS), pursuant to 10 ▒ MARCH-APRIL 2017

After achieving success in her television career and exploring different options, her deep rooted passion for helping others led her to join the financial services industry where she continues to educate people about retirement, investing and asset management strategies.

Hines contends, “Everyone with an income needs a goal, a budget and a financial strategy. When you have accumulated a substantial amount, consult a financial advisor for a checkup just like you seek an annual physical from your doctor.”

She says “As a financial advisor, I have an obligation to recommend what is in the best interest for each client.” adding, “No single solution fits every client; I have the opportunity and responsibility to select products from multiple reputable financial institutions around the world in addition to Prudential products.”

A major part of Hines' practice focuses on women taking control of their financial future. Hines spoke highly of the emphasis Prudential puts into research in this area. Hines admires Caroline Feeney, a woman who happens to be President of Prudential Advisors, the national sales organization for Prudential Financial. “Feeney has always

emphasized the importance of understanding financial experience and behaviors among women,” says Hines.

Biannually, Prudential publishes extensive research findings and continually adapts programs to keep pace with emerging economic trends. Prudential's 2014-2015 Research Study, Financial Experience & Behaviors Among Women shows that during the years of financial recovery; women appear to be feeling more financially secure, the financial crisis did not prompt most women surveyed to seek financial help, although many took more responsibility for financial planning. Further adding that while health care and college costs remain to be of growing concern, women are more confident of meeting short term goals.

Another major segment of Hines' financial clientele is small business owners. Hines says she “frequently meets owners who are so focused on current income, they fail to plan for business succession (how and who will get the business at retirement or death) and do not set aside enough money to last an additional 20 - 30 years after retirement.” In the hopes of spreading the word about the importance of developing effective financial strategies, Hines combines her broadcast presentation skills with her financial advisor background to conduct workshops and seminars that delve into topics of particular concern to women and small business owners.

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Monica is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Omega graduate chapter and looks forward to becoming more involved as a new member of The Presidents' Council Business Chamber of Commerce in Cleveland, Ohio. On the challenges of work-life balance, Hines credits the grace of God, her husband Ray and daughter Marie for their love and unreserved support!

When asked to give guidance to young women, Hines states “start saving now, always pay yourself first, participate in your company's retirement savings program, think very carefully before you spend your retirement savings for anything other than your retirement (have an emergency fund for all other unexpected needs) and most importantly, seek guidance from a financial professional.”

Monica Banks Hines has adopted an official motto that has guided her consistently throughout her professional career; from television personality to financial advisor “I promote things that matter!” That motto guided her to the financial industry because she says, “I feel I can make a difference in my client's lives by helping them take control of their financial futures; that is what matters to them.”

Inspiring Women To Reach Their Highest Potential! phenomenal

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PEGGY ZONE FISHER AND THE DIVERSITY CENTER OF NORTHEAST OHIO

PUZZLE PIECE

BY PUZZLE PIECE A family’s journey with

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Monica can be contacted at monica.hines@prudential.com or 440-544-2719.

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KELLIE ROTUNNO

UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS

Chief Operating Officer, NEORSD Committed to keeping our Great Lake great

GOING FURTHER WITH DIVERSITY

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"Prudential Advisors" is a brand name of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its subsidiaries. Each Prudential company is located in Newark, NJ and is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations.

0303564-00002-00

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2017 Cleveland Foundation Annual Meeting Presented by KeyBank: Building Common Ground When: Wed, May 10, 2017, Theatre: State Theatre Tickets for this event are Free, there is a limit of 4 ticket per person. All guests must have a ticket!

For 103 years, the Cleveland Foundation and our many committed donors and partners have seen the bigger picture of what our great community can – and should – be. Join us to reflect, look ahead and envision “building common ground” through investments in the people, places and programs that advance virtually every aspect of our society.

Featuring the Robert D. Gries Keynote Lecture by Steve Case, Chairman and CEO, Revolution LLC; Co-Founder, America Online; author, "The Third Wave;" and philanthropist, the Case Foundation; as moderated by Dan Moulthrop, Chief Executive Officer of The City Club of Cleveland Steve Case’s entrepreneurial career began in 1985 when he co-founded America Online (AOL). Under Steve’s leadership, AOL became the world’s largest and most valuable Internet company, driving the worldwide adoption of a medium that has transformed business and

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society. Today, as Chairman and CEO of Revolution LLC, a Washington, D.C.-based investment firm he co-founded in 2005, Steve partners with visionary entrepreneurs to build significant ‘built to last’ businesses. In his bestselling book, The Third Wave, Case explains the ways newly emerging tech companies will have to rethink their relationships with customers, competitors, and governments; and offers advice on how entrepreneurs can make winning business decisions and strategies — and how all of us can make sense of this changing digital age. Steve is Chairman of the Case Foundation, which he established with his wife Jean in 1997. Together they have invested in hundreds of organizations, initiatives and partnerships with a focus on leveraging the Internet and entrepreneurial approaches to strengthen the social sector. In 2010, Steve and Jean joined The Giving Pledge and publicly reaffirmed their commitment to give away the majority of their wealth to philanthropic causes.

After the formal program ends, the Cleveland Foundation invites you to be our guest at a complementary community reception. Please share your Annual Meeting thoughts and photos with @CleveFoundation on Instagram and Twitter with #CommonGroundCLE.

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Emily Fein, directing programs at GSNEO

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uliette Gordon Low, affectionately known as “Daisy” by her family and close friends, envisioned an organization that would prepare girls to meet their world with courage, confidence, and character. She learned about a new outdoor and educational program for youth when she was abroad in England and brought it here to America.

The first Girl Scout troop had 18 girls in her hometown of Savannah, Georgia and the movement spread quickly throughout the United States.

By 1918, Girl Scout chapters were active here in Cleveland. And, by the 1920's, the movement expanded around the globe to other countries.

That small gathering of girls Juliette hosted over a century ago has grown into a global movement in which all girls can see themselves reflected—and that today includes nearly 3 million Girl Scouts in 92 countries and more than 59 million alumnae, united across distance and decades by lifelong friendships, shared adventures, and the desire to do big things to make the world a better place. Girl Scouts of North East Ohio currently has over 27,000 girl members and 14,000 adult volunteers.

Girl Scouts is the first and largest girl-led organization in the world, and for more than a century has been preparing girls in grades K-12 for every day leadership by providing rich experiences for them to explore new interests, face challenges, form new friendships, and make lasting community contributions.

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But with so many youth programs available, people may wonder – is Girl Scouting still relevant? What makes it stand out from other organizations? What are the benefits of becoming a Girl Scout?

To delve into these issues in greater depth, gain insight into the Girl Scout Program, and along the way share her personal journey, Phenomenal Woman Magazine recently caught up with Emily Fein, Director of programs for Girl Scouts of North East Ohio, for an exclusive interview!

Emily Fein grew up in a house that was all about girl power.

Her mom, a small business owner instilled a love of hard work into Emily and her three sisters reminding them that they can achieve anything as long as they worked hard.

Her dad supported managing the business and Emily and her sisters were never discouraged to do anything because of their gender. Their parents encouraged them to play outside, participate in sports and school clubs. They volunteered in their small community and helped on their grandparents' farm. They grew up on a street with a lot of other girls and this attitude was reinforced in their neighborhood as well.

Emily joined Girl Scouts as a Brownie and continued through the program until she graduated from high school. She earned both the Girl Scout Silver Award—the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn—and the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouting.

The encouragement by her parents coupled with hard work led Emily to obtain a bachelor's degree in biology and American history from the University of Rochester and her master's degree in educational leadership from Bank Street College of Education in New York, NY. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Cultural Foundations of Education at Kent State University, focusing on learning during out of school time.

Emily's first employment opportunity was at Camp Conshatawba - a property of Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania. Earlier, she served as manager of camps, classes and outreach at Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland and as head of youth and family programs at the Rochester Museum & Science Center in Rochester, NY. In these positions, she was responsible for the development and delivery of hands-on, inquiry based science programming for youth.

While working at the museum, Emily partnered with Girl Scouts, and when a position opened at GSNEO, she considered it a great fit stating “I could combine my expertise in informal education with my experience as a Girl Scout. I've come full circle - returning back to where I started!”

Over the last six years, Emily has been Director of Programs at Girl Scouts of North East Ohio and in this capacity oversees large scale events for girls, summer camp programs, research and evaluation, and grant funded initiatives that provide Girl Scouting to girls that otherwise wouldn't have the experience.

Last year, Girl Scouts of North East Ohio served over 16,388 people in program events and 3,231 girls in their Summer Camp Programs. Through partnerships with local and national funders, they were also able to reach 3,269 girls in grant funded programs.

Emily added “working full time at GSNEO has allowed me to reflect and remember my Girl Scout experiences. I'm often reminded how the experiences that I had as a young girl and young adult have impacted both my personal and professional life.”

According to Emily, two major core components lie at the heart of the Girl Scout Program; Journeys and Badges.

Journeys help girls discover new skills, connect them to the community and take action to make the world a better place. It also covers topics of advocacy, environmental awareness and media literacy. Badges help girls build skills and cover a variety of topics including healthy living, financial literacy, arts and culture, community engagement, environmental awareness, and STEM. GSNEO also works through partnerships to provide unique STEM opportunities for girls. Additionally, GSUSA is working to develop more badges in the STEM fields. In 2012, the Girl Scout Research Institute conducted a study called Generation STEM. The study focused on identifying and exploring contexts where girls can thrive in STEM subjects and found that girls continue to be interested in STEM and that many are drawn by the creative and

problem solving aspects of STEM. Girls like understanding how things work, solving problems, doing hands on activities and asking questions – these are all good qualities of a scientist! Additionally, the study noted that girls want to change the world, help people and were interested in changing the world through STEM. The study revealed that adult support and exposure as key factors in enhancing girls' interest in STEM stressing that African American and Hispanic girls had less exposure to STEM and less adult support for pursuing STEM fields.

Most girls participate in Girl Scout troops and the core of their experience is with their friends in their local community. Girls go to meetings, earn badges, attend field trips and participate in community service projects that are meaningful to them. The cookie program enables girls to do all of these things and more!

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her cookie goals, track their progress, manage orders and inventory, learn Internet safety skills, and more—all while earning age-specific Cookie Business badges and exploring ways to help others by investing their earnings back into their communities.

Emily states “During Girl Scouts Cookie season, which runs from January through the first week of April, girls not only sell delicious cookies but also build essential life skills, such as goal setting, people skills, and business ethics—which are essential for 21st century leadership.”

She continues “the more cookies girls sell, the more earnings they have to power impactful community projects and personal enrichment experiences, such as camping and traveling.”

As a Girl Scout, girls learn essential skills such as goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, business ethics and so much more..... Meanwhile, if you know a girl who could benefit from the Girl Scouts Leadership Experience, membership is open to girls ages 5-17 and adult volunteers over 18. Girls who have finished kindergarten may join now for the 2017 membership year and register for a program at Girl Scout Camp by visiting gsneo.org/camplife.

Girls entering kindergarten in the fall may join beginning April 1 by visiting gsneo.org/daisy.

To welcome our youngest members and their caregivers over the summer, we offer incentives, including her first patch, a certificate, and a free ticket to Girl Scout Day at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Membership costs $25 per year and financial assistance is available for families that need it.

Since 2013, the last weekend in February has been recognized as National Girl Scouts Cookie weekend, which celebrates all the fun, learning, and excitement that selling cookies has powered for girls over the last 100 years. One hundred percent of the net revenue raised through Girl Scouts Cookie sales stays with the local Girl Scout council to support Girl Scouts programs and local troops, so customers who purchase cookies are making an important investment in their communities and supporting fun and formative leadership experiences for girls.

Cookie platform is a fun, educational tool that helps girls run and manage their Girl Scouts Cookie business online.

With a fun, robust, hands-on interface, the Digital Cookie platform is an amazing learning experience. Through her personalized cookie site, she has access to fun quizzes, games, and videos that teach her about marketing, budgeting, resource allocation, and other critical business skills—encouraging her and guiding her as she makes her way to cookie boss success. On the platform, girls can set

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To Emily, the Girl Scouts program is about providing opportunities for girls. Her advice to girls “take advantage of opportunities to try new things. Step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. Even if you don't like something, you've learned something new about yourself.

And, who knows, maybe by trying something new, you'll find a new passion!”

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Dr. KATHLEEN BUSE EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH

STEM

Dr. Talisa Dixon PROPELLING MORE STUDENTS INTO COLLEGES AND CAREERS

Magda Gómez ADVANCING DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AT Tri-C

SEPT-OCT 2016

FREE

FREE

NOV-DEC 2016

GIVE FROM THE HEART Dr. HELEN MUGA Engineer/Entrepreneur

BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION

With an Eye on The Budget

LaSHAWN REED-KENDRICKS Women Business Advocate

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COUSINS HARDY & JACKSON

“THIS LIGHT OF OURS”

Tri-C’s WIT PROGRAM

STEPHANIE MORRIS NUNN

CHOOSE OHIO FIRST

Are Keeping it All in The Family

Exhibit Looks at The Civil Rights Movement

Training Women Seeking a Fresh Start

Creating Beauty One Stitch at a Time

Helping to Develop Our Future Innovators

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ADVERTISE WITH US!

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Danielle Flemister: A dynamic entrepreneur and venture initiatives advisor

Danielle Flemister, a venture initiatives advisor at Kent State University as well as CEO and founder of a PanAfrican Clothing line grew up in a close knit family. Her parents were huge supporters of any talents they noticed in her and her siblings and encouraged them to do their best in every facet of education. She loves art and her parents provided her with art supplies and enrolled her in art programs to foster that talent.

To incentivize her siblings, cousins and her to do well in school, she proudly recalls that her grandmother and parents used to offer '$20 per A'. She thinks this was her first “business” because shortly after, she started earning A's in every subject. Later, she says her grandmother opted out and her parents dropped the offer down to '$5 an A.' Flemister admits that while her upbringing was far from rich - financially that is-, she had a wealth of familial support, a key factor to her successful career.

She lost her dad when she was eleven and thinks that had a lot to do with how she applied herself from then on. Her dad always had high expectations for her, so she started to make goals that would be “dad approved”. She planned to become valedictorian of junior high, instead was salutatorian, so she tried again for high school and that time she was successful!

Reaching that goal set the tone for how she would challenge herself looking forward. She says “now, I know I wasn't the smartest kid in my school, but earning that title taught me if my effort matched my desire to make something happen, it could come into fruition.”

Flemister continued her studies and received her bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Entrepreneurship and Marketing and minor in Psychology from Kent State University.

There is very little about entrepreneurship Flemister has not experienced as she has always been entrepreneurial and believes that spirit came when she learned that people would pay her for things that naturally came to her. As a little girl having a traditional lemonade stand, selling stickers to kids in the neighborhood, doing acrylic nails for neighbors in her pre-teens and as a teenager, drawing custom prom dress designs and even designing t-shirts that she made with a cheap screen printer ordered from an infomercial, Danielle has always been an etreprenuer. A

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little later in high school, she recalls being exposed to ECity - a program where entrepreneurs connect with high school students to walk them through the steps of starting a business where she gained a lot of organizational skills.

Kent State University, where Flemister works as a venture initiatives advisor has a firm commitment to advancing and nurturing skills. As a testament to this core objective, it has formulated 'LaunchNET Kent State', a hub for entrepreneurial thinking, innovative mindset, creative collaboration and venture creation across campus. The hub encourages entrepreneurship through one-on-one advising, entrepreneurship workshops and providing access to tools and resources. Since its' genesis, LaunchNET has grown to over 1200 clients and successfully helped clients turn their ideas into thriving businesses. Highlights of a few of the program's clients can be seen on the “Client Spotlight” at https://www.kent.edu/launchnet.

As an advisor, Flemister focuses on diversity and inclusion (female, underrepresented minority and international students.) She developed two projects; 'All the CEO Ladies' a component designed to serve as a platform to gain entrepreneurial skills, establish accountability partners, build a professional network and develop a compelling business pitch and 'Build Your Own Brand' a workshop series designed to assist in developing aspiring, underrepresented minority entrepreneurs/professionals into confident leaders with memorable brands.

Flemister credits Kent State University for giving her the opportunity to sit with students across the world.

Intermingling with different cultures, she quickly learned the lack of representation and accommodation of certain cultures throughout campus.

One of Flemister’s sessions

Along with her team, she started to pay more attention to and got involved with cultural events and workshops on campus. The attendance and audience response from those types of events made it clear these were starving markets.

Her extraordinary efforts led to the birth of 'Dunya Jeane' a clothing line geared towards international and underrepresented minority students that sells t-shirts, sweatshirts and tank tops. Her best selling designs were the afrocentrics, so Dunya Jeane became a pan-African clothing line. Flemister is currently rebranding her company to give it a different look, feel and sound.

According to Flemister, critical elements that hinder women and minority communities to becoming successful entrepreneurs are, building credibility and lack of access to capital. Adding “Although both women and underrepresented minority (URM) groups have proven to overcome many stereotypes, those said stereotypes can still seem crippling. Many times both groups have to work a lot harder than their peers before being taken seriously.”

Flemister doesn't portray the picture as all gloomy stating “the good news is there are already things being done to improve this situation. There are many organizations designed exclusively to encourage and fund female and URM entrepreneurs. I also think as more women and URMs continue to build personal wealth, we should see more becoming investors.”

To start and run a successful business, Flemister recommends, “Have a plan, invest in a team that complements your strengths and understand and adapt your plans to fit your market.”

When asked about her approach to work-life balance, Flemister stated that “I prepare a to do list at the end of each day, determine priorities and make everything else work around those and block out time to do certain activities including fun, relaxation and social responsibilities.”

To women who want to become entrepreneurs, Flemister encourages them to find and utilize good mentors, to join an all female entrepreneurship organization and to dream big but start small! www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 19

COVER STORY: TANISHA RUSH / FIFTH THIRD Bank

Tanisha Rush

Vice President of Community & Economic Development, Fifth Third Bank

PHOTOS: ERIC BENSON

20 â–’ MARCH-APRIL 2017

By Shelley M. Shockley PWM Managing Editor

H

ave you taken a look at the demographics of your local bank lately? If not, you may have missed the transformation of these financial icons into diverse corporations. In the past banks were diverse, yet the diversity ended when you left the teller floor. Women have moved away from the teller stations and now comfortably work aside their male counterparts in the boardrooms of our nation's banks.

One of the women joining the ranks of the banking upper echelon is Tanisha Rush, vice president of Community & Economic Development for Fifth Third Bank. Phenomenal Woman recently sat down with this petite powerhouse to learn more about her career, and how this Pittsburgh native found a home in Cleveland.

She didn't know at the time that she would fall in love with the banking culture and being fascinated by what she was learning and how banking impacted the businesses she passed by regularly.

After becoming immersed in her new career, Rush spent about 10 years in the commercial loans operations and began to see her passion come to light. “Whenever the bank had any type of opportunities to volunteer – if it was to teach financial education; or come walk for a great cause, or help recruit volunteers, I always had my hand up and I realized my passion was helping people.”

While Rush recognized an internal motivation, her superiors at National City recognized her ability to perform financial business analysis, but also her strengths relating to people and tapped her for a position opening up in their Community Development department. Choosing to take the position was a leap of faith, “At that time, I was unfamiliar with Community Development but applied for the position because it offered me an opportunity to incorporate my passion for empowering people along with many of the technical skills I garnered through college and work.”

So how did a Pittsburgh girl and Penn State alum choose Cleveland? While in college Tanisha Rush had the opportunity to visit Cleveland on many occasions with a friend and she was impressed with the success she witnessed in the African-American community. “Cleveland was a complete contrast to Pittsburgh in terms of diversity a n d o p p o r t u n i t i e s fo r A f r i c a n Americans. I came here and saw young professional African-Americans looking I love community like they were doing well in great positions and I didn't know if I development because necessarily saw that in Pittsburgh as it is a chance to much.” After she graduated and got her responsibly empower first job in retail where she was on the underserved quick management track , she asked to individuals be considered for any position in Cleveland.

“

Banking was not Rush's first choice, instead she said she “stumbled into banking. It was going to be a one year type of venture.

When I graduated from college my first job was in a department store and if you've ever worked in a department store, you know the late nights and early mornings. You can forget about seeing your family for holidays and that became a problem for me because all of my family is in Pittsburgh, and so there was a year when I said this is my last year in retail. I had done it in high school and in college. When National City had opened a new center in Highland Hills which was close to where I lived, I said I can do this, I'm going to go to commercial loans, didn't know what commercial loans was but I'm going to supervise this department for a year and get my feet wet.”

”

Today as a member of the Fifth Third team, Rush is responsible for overseeing the bank's commitment to the Community Development Reinvestment Act of 1972. The CRA she explains “says as a bank we must make sound and fair lending practices in the communities we serve including those who are underserved.”

Rush's employer, Fifth Third Bank's corporate history began in 1858, when the Bank of the Ohio Valley opened in Cincinnati. In 1871, that bank was purchased by the Third National Bank. With the turn of the century came the union of the Third National Bank and the Fifth National Bank, which eventually became known as "Fifth Third Bank."

The Bank's commitment to financial empowerment took hold in 2004 with the launch of the Young Bankers Club, a hands-on financial literacy program for fifth-graders, and the Bank's Financial Empowerment Mobile, or eBus, which brings financial services directly to underserved communities. (continued on next page) www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 21

COVER STORY: TANISHA RUSH / FIFTH THIRD Bank

Tanisha Rush with colleagues

As vice president of community & economic development at Fifth Third Bank, Rush's responsibilities encompass a multitude of responsibilities:

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On community outreach, she represents the bank throughout Northeast including serving on boards and committees as well as attending highly visible community events related to community development.

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On donation and Sponsorship management, she assists with the management of our regions' sponsorship/donation budget.

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On employee engagement and training, she works with internal business partners and executives to ensure engagement of region associates in community development initiatives including associated correspondence, training, employee recognition programs and newsletters.

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On compliance reporting, she leads a team of people responsible for the Bank's national, state and regional compliance reporting. Her team also p e r fo r m s q u a l i ta t i v e a n d q u a n t i ta t i v e assessments/analysis, which includes the use of ascertainment, market demographics and performance data reports.

These descriptions are sterile and involve a lot of processes, but at the core they represent helping others, which is Rush's passion and she says a reflection of her parents. “My mother was a nurse and my father was a very giving type of person. It was ingrained in me that no matter how much you have or how little you have, you are to help others, you must give back.” The financial aspect of her career was also something rooted in the core of who she is as a person. She recalls, “I've always been thrifty and always gave people advice on how to not spend money. In high school I would encourage my friends, `no don't get that -you can save that -and we can do this,'” so it appears she has met her destiny.

Rush’s unwavering commitment to giving back coupled with a deep interest in overall community health led her to serve among other things as; a Board member of the MetroHealth Foundation; which supports the work of the hospital. MetroHealth continues to provide healthcare to and outreach programs in disadvantaged neighborhoods to identify those most at risk for health problems and enroll them in early intervention, prevention, and wellness programs.

With a vast list of responsibilities, one wonders what does a day in the life of a bank executive look like. Rush explained that her days are full and varied. “One of the great things about Community & Economic Development is that every day is a little different. I help to cultivate external relationships in Northeast Ohio. My day can consist of meeting with the Mayor to discuss economic development, teaching adults/youth about financial education, training Bank business leaders about bank compliance and discussing performance progress, conducting national market research, etc.”

The joy that Rush finds in her job is evident when you listen to her describe a recent gathering with the Young Bankers Club at Garfield Heights High School, as she speaks her eyes light up accompanied by a wider smile than she exhibits in general conversation.

This contrasts with the woman discussing the challenges of her job. She explained, “The challenges are similar to those that we are experiencing as a nation. The need is great, but the resources are not always equal, which can be hard.” To counter that she says we have to be creative in our approach. If we can't do it financially, we look at others ways we can be of assistance.”

While there are challenges in her position, Rush said “I love community development because it is a chance to responsibly empower underserved individuals, families and communities through the delivery of responsible and innovative financial solutions, leading to financially healthy people and sustainable communities. Understanding that we all need a little help in achieving our goals, Rush noted that she had great mentors along the way beginning with her Mom, “her best role model, mentor, champion and best friend.” Along the way she met a wonderful man she credits with helping her to balance the roles of corporate executive, wife and mother.

To the young lady thinking of a career in banking and/or community development Rush advises, “Focus more on international business and political science and make sure you find time to have fun.”

PHENOMENAL FACTS: ·

Bachelors degree, Business administration, Penn State University

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Masters degree, Business administration, University of Phoenix

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Served as President of the Cleveland Northeast Ohio Chapter of the National Black MBA Association

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Served as member of the Board of Directors of the Metro Health Foundation Inc.

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Served as President-Board of Directors, NHS of Greater Cleveland

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Worked as Assistant Vice President of National City's Community Development Corporation.

www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 23

Shangani Fashions Where African Fashions Meet the Stylish Traveler

I enjoy mixing various African influences with a contemporary cut and shape for a modernized look. And the result is a ready-to-wear brand that is suitable for all occasions” explains Mary Moore.

Designers Mary Thondhlana Moore (left) and Elesia Peterman (right)

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hangani Fashion's debut presentation during New York Fashion Week conveys contemporary cuts that are accented with vintage accessories. Shangani Fashion Designs are a juxtaposition of culture and style.

Shangani is an African tribe who dwelled near the Shangani River in Zimbabwe, Africa. The tribe was named after its founder; and the name “Shoshangani” means traveler. Shangani Fashion is a brand inspired by the experience of travel and the exposure of different cultures.

Creations by Shangani's Designers merge their travel experiences with colorful ethnic prints, and contemporary shapes to create a high fashion, ready-to-wear look.

Traditional African fabrics with a modern mix, is the passion behind Shangani Fashions.

The design duo collaborating on the aesthetics is Fashion Designers Mary Moore and Elesia Peterman. Moore is a graduate of the University of Zimbabwe and a world traveler. “My inspirations are fusions of my cultural, travel experiences and my Zimbabwean heritage and styles.

Shoppers will find divers influences from the Caribbean, European and Middle-Eastern expressions in my fashions.

24 ▒ MARCH-APRIL 2017

“My creative inspiration comes from a fusion of time, epoch periods and cultures, while remaining Afrocentric.

States Elesia Peterman. “I want our line to show that African print transcends. The looks can be worn strictly as traditional wear, but the looks can also be incorporated in business and everyday casual use. What makes our line unique is that it isn't just an African meets Western cohesion. Our goal is to reach and inspire a much bigger market. Our line is an international fusion. Also, being a millennial, I feel I can relate with the style trends my peers are excited about.. I want to use clothing design as my voice and demonstration of creativity.”

Shangani offers looks for both men and women, and intends to expand the menswear line for upcoming seasons. The garments are wearable for business casual or as formal wear. Depending on the type of garment design, the brand uses one-hundred percent cotton, applied with Dutch Wax print, Denim and other uniquely blended materials of the finest quality. Completing the Afro-inspired look, the Shangani brand also features handcrafted travel handbags and clutch bags. Accessories such as earrings, bracelets and shoes, add a hint of sophistication to an individual's look.

For more information contact Shangani Fashions at...

Email: shanganifashion@gmail.com Phone: 888.220.0981 Website: www.shanganifashion.com Photo credit page 24-26: Macintosh Smith (Runway Photography) Francena Ottley (in Studio Photography)

www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me â–’ 25

Shangani Fashions

26 â–’ MARCH-APRIL 2017

Photo: Getty Images

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7 Tips to Shake Up Your Lifestyle

f you're looking for ways to bring some extra energy to your lifestyle and shake up your routine as spring rolls around, you may be surprised to find how seemingly simple changes can make a big difference.

Sometimes all you need is a little change in your daily routine or a small adjustment to jump-start a fresh take on life. Ideas don't have to be big to be impactful.

1. Sign up for a fitness class. When your workout regimen feels repetitive, it's hard to stay motivated.

One way to wake up your workout is to enroll in a new class, where you can learn new moves and put your muscles to work in new ways.

2. Make your down time productive. Your idle time may be minimal, so it's all the more reason to fill those hours with productive activities that make you happy.

If you're looking to take on a new hobby, now's the time to commit to your newfound passion, whether it's understanding the ins and outs of digital photography or volunteering for a cause close to your heart.

3. Improve your oral health. Maintaining your overall health includes your mouth too. An option like Colgate Total Advanced Health Mouthwash can help you take charge of your oral health. This mouthwash is the first oral care product to contain dual-layer technology that combines freshening power with germ killing ingredients – simply shake to activate and see the results in the sink. Learn more at colgatetotal.com.

can do to improve your overall health. That's because your sleeping hours are when your body works to repair and rejuvenate from the tolls of daily living. If your mattress is outdated or saggy, upgrade for better rest and better health.

5. Explore a new look. A fresh makeup shade or a new hairstyle can give you confidence and put you on a path toward looking as great as you feel. Changes don't have to be bold or dramatic to make a difference.

Simply switching up your eye shadow or lipstick can transform your look for an extra boost inside and out.

6. Redecorate a room in your home. Whether it's a favorite space or a room you avoid because it needs some TLC, changing the appearance of your environment can create a place for you to feel at home, and that's simply good for the mind and soul.

Create an oasis for relaxing or a more productive work space and you'll not only see the results, you'll feel good when you're using the space, too.

7. Make more time to socialize. Breaking up your regular schedule can give you the variety you need to unplug and enjoy the lighter side of life. Make plans with friends for no special reason; simply enjoy the company and unwind.

Adding some pep to your step doesn't have to mean major changes. Just a few adjustments can have you breaking out of an old pattern and stepping into a healthier lifestyle with ease. (Family Features)

4. Invest in a quality mattress. Giving yourself a good night of sleep is one of the most important things you www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me â–’ 27

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Photo: Roadside Attractions

BITTER HARVEST There are moments when this film is very hard to watch. To

by R. Lee Gamble Film Diva www.filmdiva3.com

see people being deliberately starved and beaten and for no reason at all other than Stalin wanted it is horrifying.

Max Irons and Samantha Barks who portray Yuri and

W

Natalka are brilliant on screen. They both go through a e constantly hear about the aggression from

transformation from innocent youth to tortured adults

Russia towards Ukraine, but I don't think

fighting to escape persecution after losing everyone they

anyone understands why. Bitter Harvest

love. Terence Stamp also gave a memorable performance

explains and tells the story about one of the worst

as Ivan, Yuri's grandfather. He is a soldier, and he leads the

atrocities of the 20th century against a group of people.

fight to try and save their town from the Russians.

Bitter Harvest is a powerful story of love, honor, rebellion

There is a scene between Ivan and Natalka when he knows

and survival as seen through the eyes of two young lovers

she is going to prostitute herself to a Russian officer to get

caught in the ravages of Joseph Stalin's genocidal policies

a piece of stale bread for her family. He is heartbroken, but

against Ukraine in the 1930s. As Stalin advances the

she has resolved not to give in, but to find a way to fight

ambitions of communists in the Kremlin, a young artist

and free up the food for her people. It is a heart-wrenching

named Yuri (Max Irons) battles to survive famine,

scene that will leave you in tears.

imprisonment, sweetheart

and

torture

his

Barks)

childhood from

the that

that we all need to learn and maybe then we will begin to

ultimately killed millions of Ukrainians. Against this tragic

understand why we need to care about the current actions

the

(Samantha

save

program

"Holodomor,"

Natalka

to

death-by-starvation

Bitter Harvest is a powerful movie. It is a history lesson

backdrop, Yuri escapes from a Soviet prison and joins the

Russia has been taking against Ukraine. If we close our

anti-Bolshevik resistance movement as he battles to

eyes and ignore it, the Ukrainian people may be in danger

reunite with Natalka and continue the fight for a free

again. I for one won't stand by and watch that happen.

Ukraine.

Bitter Harvest is a must see.

32 â–’ MARCH-APRIL 2017

. ©WARNER BROS. PICTURES

KONG SKULL ISLAND

by R. Lee Gamble Film Diva www.filmdiva3.com Growing up there was nothing like watching monster movies on a Saturday afternoon. Although King Kong was one of the worst regarding the racial undertones (black women eaten, but the giant ape falls in love with the blond, blue-eyed white woman), a kid only sees this giant gorilla climbing the Empire State Building. Monster fans watch in wonder as he knocks down planes and helicopters and becomes king of the concrete jungle.

Kong: Skull Island brings the magic of the monster movie back. Even better is it gets rid of the racial storyline and deals only with what made Kong an exciting story in the first place – a giant gorilla fighting other giant creatures on this mysterious island. Kong: Skull Island is fantastic, and director Jordan Vogt-Roberts did an amazing job of bringing Kong to life. Set in the 70s after the Vietnam War has ended, all the action takes place on Skull Island. Scientist Bill Randa (John Goodman) gets the government to fund an expedition to find out what is on the island that is hidden by a never ending storm. On one more final mission before going home, a team of soldiers led by Preston Packard (Samuel Jackson) and joined by tracker James Conrad (Tom Hiddleston) takes the scientist to the island.

The first appearance of Kong sets the tone for the whole film. It is mesmerizing. The helicopter is flying, and suddenly there is a scary gorilla face right in front of them.

Bombs are going off, flames and smoke are licking the sky, and in front of it all is the biggest, meanest King Kong ever to be seen on screen. It was mind-blowing!!

Just when I thought, I am not ready to see Samuel Jackson in the jungle again after that fiasco called Tarzan, I must say he did not disappoint. Jackson gives a memorable performance as Packard, a Vietnam soldier who doesn't want to stop fighting a war no matter the cost. He is pushed completely over the edge by Kong killing some of his men. Packard is determined to kill the monster, and he does not care how many people die for him to make it happen.

Kong: Skull Island had an amazing cast: Goodman, Corey Hawkins, Hiddleston, Brie Larson, Jason Mitchell, John C. Reilly, and Shea Whigham. But the real star is Kong. He has an intensity never seen before, and it is thrilling. Kong: Skull Island is the best remake of King Kong, and I can't wait to see the next movie.

So be a kid again, grab a bag of popcorn and sit back and enjoy a great monster movie in a dark theater on a Saturday afternoon. You will be glad you did.

www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 33

Jake Gyllenhaal in 'Life’

by R. Lee Gamble Film Diva www.filmdiva3.com

frustrating and exciting all at once. You don't have time to build attachments to the characters, so they begin to just look like trapped animals being hunted by an alpha predator.

Life is a version of Aliens on steroids. This film moves very quickly, and like the monster, in the movie, it will grab hold of you and not let go until the very end.

The film stars Ariyon Bakare, Olga Dihovichnaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Jake Gyllenhaal, Ryan Reynolds, and Hiroyuki Sanada. Beautifully shot, the thrills keep coming, and space becomes a place that is not only beautiful but terrifying. The audience becomes trapped in outer space with this crew, and you are spending every moment wondering what they are going to do to survive and how are they going to keep this thing from making it to earth.

Life tells the story of the six-member crew of the International Space Station that is on the cutting edge of one of the most important discoveries in human history: the first evidence of extraterrestrial life on Mars. As the crew begins to conduct research, their methods end up having unintended consequences, and the life form proves more intelligent than anyone ever expected.

From the moment the intelligence of this creature is established, the crew is in a fight for survival. Just to let you know, this is a “yell at the screen” film. It is scary, 34 ▒ MARCH-APRIL 2017

Is this a great film? Yes, it is, but it is also very intense. You will not be able to stop talking about it because you will have all these opinions on what you would have done.

That's a movie you want to see. Check it out. It won't disappoint.

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EMPOWERING WOMEN!

2nd Annual FINANCIAL LITERACY AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES C O N F E R E N C E Organized by:

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Register at: www.empowerwomen2017.eventbrite.com www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 35

ADD LIGHT WITH DIY DECOR

W

hen your home decor needs an upgrade, but expensive, ready-made items aren't in your budget, DIY projects can be an easy and affordable solution for revitalizing rooms in your home. One simple way to enhance the character of a room is with lighted elements.

Add a glistening, on-trend look with a lighted canvas, which features twinkling lights that dance on shimmering glitter to lend a glam look to any room. The project, designed by crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, can be adapted to any palette; just change out the color of the glitter to match the hues in your favorite room.

For a charming, subtle accent, this frosted jar and doily not only adds quaint flair – the jar also provides a soft glow of light. It's perfect nestled on a shelf or sitting atop a dresser with similarly styled items.

Find more creative ideas to bring a touch of light to your home decor at joann.com.

achi eve a thick consistency at bottom. Mix types of glitters create dimension.

to

Apply thin layer of decoupage medium over entire canvas to seal glitter. Tip: Ensure base layer is completely dry before applying top coat to avoid smearing glitter.

Poke small hole in back of canvas with craft knife. Push tip of moon light through hole and secure in place with duct tape.

Repeat, adding holes and lights over entire canvas. Continue ombre effect by placing more lights at bottom of canvas and less toward top. Apply layers of duct tape to hold lights securely in place on canvas.

Glitter and Lights Canvas Crafting time: 3-5 hours, Skill level: Intermediate Supplies and Tools: Foam brush 18-by-24-inch canvas Decoupage medium Ultra-fine to coarse gold glitter Craft knife 3 packages battery-operated warm white LED moon lights Duct tape, Protected work surface Use foam brush to cover entire canvas with layer of decoupage medium.

Working 12 inches from canvas, dust canvas with glitter. Apply glitter so bottom is fully covered, fading into less glitter at top to create an ombre effect. Apply additional layers of glitter to 36 â–’ MARCH-APRIL 2017

Frosted Ball Jar with Doily Crafting time: 1-2 hours, Skill level: Intermediate Supplies and Tools: Ball jar (1-quart) Frosted glass spray Doily (8- to 10-inch diameter) Spray adhesive, Hemp twine, 1/8-inch ribbon Battery-powered tea light Follow manufacturer's directions and spray Ball jar completely with frosted glass spray. Allow to dry completely. Spray working side of doily with adhesive. Press doily to jar, smoothing out any wrinkles. Allow to dry thoroughly. Use twine and ribbon to embellish top. Place battery-powered tea light inside. (Family Features)

Apr 28 - 30 , 2017 Ohio Theatre On a sweltering summer morning in 1892, in a small New England city, a prominent businessman and his wife were brutally axed to death in their home. Their daughter Lizzie Borden was the prime suspect. Lizzie’s trial was a coast-to-coast media sensation, and her story has become an American legend.

LIZZIE is a rock roadshow retelling of this bloody legend told by four women fronting a six-piece rock band. This crowd favorite musical returns to the Cleveland stage in celebration of the 10 - year collaboration between Playhouse Square and the highly - respected Baldwin Wallace University Musical Theater program. Decide for yourself whether Lizzie Borden is innocent, or if she is the axe-wielding murderer that everyone suspects her to be in LIZZIE, the American rock musical.

Show Run Time: 90 minutes

Sat, May 13, 2017 State Theatre A Mother's Day Celebration featuring Anthony Hamilton Raheem DeVaughn Angie Stone www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me â–’ 37

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www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me â–’ 39

GOING THE DISTANCE

FOR OUR

COMMUNITIES. At Dominion East Ohio, going the distance for our customers means more than just delivering safe, affordable natural gas. It means being a positive force in the communities we serve. Our EnergyShareÂŽ program has raised $6.8 million and helped more than 70,000 people in Ohio alone. These resources, combined with more than 6,300 volunteer hours from our employees, have benefited organizations as diverse as the American Red Cross, the Boy Scouts of America and the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition.