May - June 2014

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Hard Work and Dedication Leads to NASA

TERRIAN NOWDEN GENDER AND THE FIGHT FOR EDUCATION Changing Lives One Student at a Time

Dr. ANGELA ISOM $ 3.00 USD

MAY-JUNE 2014

Dr. KIRSTEN ELLENBOGEN Motivating Young Minds in STEM

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CONGRATULATES ALL STUDENTS GRADUATING THIS YEAR!

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From the Editor

Let's welcome spring with open arms!

This has been a long and arduous winter, but hints of spring and even summer are slowly blooming along with the daffodils and tulips.

As we prepare for warmer weather, we also prepare for life's transitions – graduations, weddings and births. Our gaits are lighter as we shed layer upon layer of clothing and the smiles are genuine and not forced.

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For the recent college graduates or the high school students seeking their first job, Prof.

Mahli Xuan Mechenbier an Associate Lecturer in the English Department of Kent State University's Geauga campus offers advice on communication in a business setting. She examines appearance as a form of communication as well as written and non-verbal communication.

A new contributor to Phenomenal Woman Magazine is Deborah Prince, who provides an essay on the impact family history can play in our life choices. To illustrate, Ms. Prince offers a genealogical view into her family tree.

We also had the opportunity to speak with Angela Isom, Ph.D., founder of the Henry Johnson Center and the Henry Johnson Academy. Dr. Isom's story is one of resilience and fighting against tremendous odds. After enduring some troubling teen years, Isom went on to graduate from high school and received her Ph.D. degree. More important than the educational degrees, Isom has found her grounding in her Christian faith – her story is compelling and a true testimony.

In Simply Stephanie, our resident women's rights advocate brings light to the current atrocity associated with the right to an education that is taking place in Nigeria. More than 200 young women were kidnapped from their school by a group that is adamantly opposed to educating girls and threatening them into sexual slavery. It is appalling that something like this could happen, and even more upsetting, the fact that they were seeking to improve their lives through obtaining an education actually placed a target on their backs.

This is just a snapshot of the offerings we have in this edition and it is our hope that something within these pages will offer you a moment to smile, say 'aha' and in the case of the kidnappings garner some good old fashioned anger that you will translate into action.

As always I ask you to take a few moments out of your busy life and grab your favorite beverage and read the stories we have prepared for you. I also ask that you offer your feedback, we are here for you and we value your opinions.

Please visit our website at www.phenomenalwoman.me if you're reading the digital version and 'Like Us' on Facebook and if you would like to connect with me, please follow me on Twitter @shellshock. We would love to hear from you!

Before I close I would like to wish all of our phenomenal readers a very Happy Mother's Day and to the men in our lives a very Happy Father's Day! I'll see you hear again in the heart of summer with more interesting and enlightening topics!

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

Statistics show the path to STEM careers is challenging for women and that most women with a high acumen for these study areas tend to land in jobs within the health and education fields. The reasons are many, but it's an area that calls urgent action.

Relevant policies and programs need to be developed to inspire women to join STEM fields.

We also spoke with Terrian Nowden, a Power Systems Analyst who has the distinct pleasure of working with the International Space Station at NASA. Ms. Nowden shared with us her journey into a STEM career and some good advice for women seeking similar career paths.

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Beletu (Bele') Wondwossen Founder / Publisher

As we soak in the rays of the sun, we say goodbye to elementary school, junior high, high school and the ultimate college. With these transitions come decisions – what school will I attend next, will I be able to find a job etc. In this issue we take a look at the importance of education to our society with a main focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Our cover story features Dr. Kirsten Ellenbogen the newly appointed President and CEO of the Great Lakes Science Center. Dr. Ellenbogen is an advocate for Informal Science Education and is keenly aware of the challenges that women face when seeking STEM careers. She has had a long stellar career in the area of Science Centers, but has also worked in the laboratory setting.

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Creative Bele’ Wondwossen On the Cover Story: Shelley Shockley Photo: Eric Benson Contributors Michelle Phillips Fay Marjorie Clark Stephanie Phelps Deborah Prince Mahli Xuan Mechenbier 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 © 2014 Phenomenal Woman Magazine. All rights reserved ISSN 2330-2534 (Print) ISSN 2330-2550 (Online) 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

Congratulations to all 2014 Graduates!

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COVER

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Gabriel Hart: “Beating all odds”

Deborah Prince: Education Starts at home Making a First Impression: Workplace Communication

Nowden

Hard work and dedication leads to NASA

Kirsten M. Ellenbogen, Ph.D. President & CEO, Great Lakes Science Center

Motivating and engaging young minds in STEM SIMPLY STEPHANIE: LIVING IN DESTINY

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Gender and the fight for education

Summer Fashion 24 28

The Henry Johnson Academy “Making a difference, one student at a time”

Delicious Recipes

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Featuring Sassy Lady Boutique

Simple Skin Care Secrets

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Your Business Connections

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Gabriel Hart: Beating all odds

I got my first job when I was 14. I was working two jobs and moved out on my own to my first apartment when I was 17. I never had anyone to call for help; it was just me against the world & I had too much pride for my own good, I refused to take handouts from anyone. I refused to even sign up for food stamps when I surely could've used them. I got my GED in 2007. I started Tri-C when I turned 18 but I didn't do well because, I was working two jobs and didn’t even went past the 9th grade. I quickly became discouraged and said “school's not for me”. At age 20, I said to myself “you know what I need a change, I'm gonna go back to school and give it my all and if it doesn't work then I'll take it from there.” I enrolled in Cleveland State University and I focused on nothing but work and school, still had two jobs.

My first semester I got all A's, 2nd semester straight A's, third all A's and B's, fourth all A's and B's and so on and so on. I surprised myself by how smart I was, I never would've thought it. No one ever believed I'd do anything great, let alone finish college. A young black girl and a foster child who raised herself with no father or mother, could statistically end up being pregnant at a young age; on welfare; in a relationship with some lowlife who beats me; on drugs; homeless without any education or I could’ve been dead like some of my fellow foster sisters. But here I am— 25 years old with enough confidence, have my own place, own car, college degree, published poetry, wrote music and books and council other young women who were once in my shoes. I did that! A troubled young girl from the inner cities of Cleveland — I wasn't supposed to be here. My humble beginnings taught me so much and they gave me a different outlook on life.

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vercoming many obstacles and tribulations throughout her childhood and adolescent years, Gabriel Hart graduated from college at age 25, on May 10th 2014.

She shared her inspirational journey on Facebook . The following is what she wrote.

Some people try and cover their past up with their current accomplishments. I don't want to be that person because my past is a huge part of who and what I am.

I'd like to share a little bit of my story with you all. When I was 3 months old my mother who was sick at the time left me on the back of a pickup truck at an airport in Texas and my sister who was 4 at an airport in California.

Police called me “baby doe” until they figured out who I really was.

They figured out where I came from and my sister and I were returned to Ohio.

I traveled through about 24 foster homes from the age of 5 to 17.

I lived everywhere from the suburbs to the hood. My foster parents didn't buy me anything so I never had what all the other girls had. My peers didn't understand me, so they made fun of me often. I was rejected at home by foster families who didn't care about me & in school. I felt alone much of my childhood and adolescent years. Because of how much I moved and how much I hated school, I was such an outcast I never made it past the grade 9.

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Now I appreciate the things that really matter. Everything makes me smile; simple things make me happy because I had nothing in my youth. Everything that I have, I FOUGHT for. I didn't degrade myself in the process, I worked hard. I went from under the table shitty jobs to McDonalds, to Wendy's, to waitressing, to bartending, to NewsChannel5. I fought! No it wasn't easy, I was working two jobs my whole way through college, it was a struggle. Yes there were times I broke down behind closed doors, times when I wanted to quit. But with God by my side, a smile on my face, I pushed forward. The way I carried myself, people who didn't know me would swear I grew up sheltered and spoiled by two parents in the suburbs. I was blessed, God gave me something — willpower and ambition. From the time I was born God had a plan for me, but he had to humble me first, to teach me lessons to take me through the mud before he cleaned me up so that other women could relate to me and so that I could relate to them. Then he gave me the gift of writing & singing and the courage and spirit to touch and effectively deliver a message.

Here I am 7 years later and I attest to you all God is real and he is good! If I could go back in time and choose a different childhood, I wouldn't because then I wouldn't be Gabby, I wouldn't be the strong willed, internally beautiful and righteous woman I am today. So as I accepted my degree today with a 3.4 Cumulative GPA, this piece of paper means so much more to me than one can imagine. It's me proving to every foster parent that hit me, that doubted me, that didn't want me and to every person who thought I was never going to make anything of myself and laughed at me.

But forget about everybody else, I proved it to myself! My late nights and early mornings, my hard work, my blood, sweat, tears all paid off. I did it! I am not a product of my environment; I am an example of how not to be. I can finally scream I'm a survivor, I survived! Thank you God! And the greatest part is that my story doesn't end here. No, the best is yet to come! Now that I've proven to myself I could finish college, I have a few more things to prove to myself and I am ready to embark on my next journey and wherever God takes me next in life. It doesn't matter as long as every foster child, every orphan, every child that was neglected and judged, that never felt good enough, that was abandoned when they hear my story and could relate. I want them look at me and see themselves; see all that they can be regardless of their circumstances. Now I'm going to MAKE the rest of my life the best of my life!

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Big Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses (Family Features) Are personal relationships why most consumers frequent small businesses? From the mom and pop coffee shop to the small bookstore just down the street, people enjoy the personal interactions and convenience small businesses offer.

In a recent survey about interactions between consumers and small businesses from Web.com, more than eight out of ten consumers said it's important that a small business is customer-focused and provides personal, face-to-face interaction with its customers. Respondents also wanted a small business to be local, convenient and reliable.

Grow online: To account for consumers' desire for personal relationships, small businesses should have a big presence on the Internet, but only 41 percent of small businesses surveyed even had a website. Those without a website said they didn't see the need for one, or the cost of designing and maintaining a site was a barrier. On the other hand, 83 percent of consumers who responded said having a website and use of social media is important to their consideration and choice of a small business.

“Small businesses have historically relied on face-to-face relationships to grow and differentiate themselves, but today's consumers are demanding that these relationships extend into 'e-Main Street',” says David Brown, president, chairman and CEO of Web.com. “Our survey found a significant disconnect between how small businesses decision-makers think they are delivering on customers' expectations versus the reality of consumers' perceptions. The good news is small businesses are 8 ▒ MAY-JUNE 2014

starting to realize the web's untapped potential to reach consumers who are eager for online engagement.”

Stay in touch: Everyone knows how important it is to stay in touch with friends. If you're a small business owner, don't forget to stay in touch with your customers so they won't forget about you. Use social media sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, along with email to notify your customers about special promotions or to just remind them about the great benefits you offer.

While it's easy to blast an email to every customer or post an endless stream of cute pictures on Facebook, it's important to not overwhelm or annoy them with too much of a good thing.

Keep your messages consistent, concise and professional.

If you're not sure how to get started, the Internet offers a lot of resources about how to successfully set up your online presence and use Google, Facebook and Twitter to market and grow your business online. You can also find information online at www.Web.com.

Provide personal service: Set your business apart by giving every customer the personal interaction and convenience they crave. Simply asking customers about their purchases or how you can serve them better gives you a consistent stream of information you can use to refine your goods or services and increase sales. Make sure every employee understands the value in talking to customers and tracking feedback.

The bottom line for every small business is that consumers are demanding online interaction and involvement with businesses, both big and small. Consistently reaching out to your customers through a website, social media and face-toface interactions will help your business thrive.

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Education Starts at Home: Positive Role Models produce Positive Results

By Deborah Prince PWM Contributing Writer Choices. A taste of freedom.

Success! Available to those who have a GED, diploma, or certificate of completion.

Working on an Associate's, Bachelor's, Masters or Doctorate degree? Any one of these can open doors to good jobs, satisfying careers and fulfillment of your dreams. That's what we've been told all of our lives, right?

When I was three years old, I couldn't WAIT to go to school like my two sisters and brother. My education started at home, though, under the supervision of parents who were both former teachers in South Carolina and Mississippi. In our household, my parents set high standards for their children to live by, and studying to achieve good grades in school was a given. There was little room for slang or poor grammar, and if you were looking for something and asked “Where's it at?”, the swift response was “behind that preposition”. And you had better not “crack a verb” by saying something like “I seen some boys sneaking into

© Darrinhenry | Dreamstime.com

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the movies” or “I ain't doin that”. You were reminded that the correct verb tense and sentence structure were: “Where is it?” and “I saw some boys sneaking into the movies” and “I am not going to do that”. You can see that grammar was very important at my house.

By the time I entered second grade, I discovered that grammar was important in school as well, and that my mother was president of the PTA – parents, teachers association. That meant she was at my school just about every week meeting with the principal, my teachers and other parents about the quality of our education. My teachers had NO PROBLEMS out of me in the classroom. I confess that I may have been a little happy to have my mom in the building, which was not unusual for a six year old. Fast forward to high school. One Friday evening the tenth graders were having a party in the school's social room and to my surprise (okay, embarrassment), Mildred AND Centry Prince had volunteered to chaperone the soiree. Happiness was not an emotion that I was feeling that night.

But I survived, graduated and enrolled in a local business school to pursue my interest in legal studies. I took classes full-time the first year and the second year I began a full-time job while attending school on a part-time basis.

When I finished up a year later with an Associate's degree - I knew I was well on my way to becoming a grown up! Two years later, I was promoted to a position in Washington, DC, relocated to Maryland and worked for an agency right across the street from The White House. A stroke of luck led me to a new position as a legislative liaison for the US House of Representatives, and I was officially a Congressional staff member. The world of politics was fascinating, and from there I landed a job with a law firm and got my inspiration to return to college. So I moved back to Cleveland, majored in English/Journalism, minored in Legal Studies and completed my Bachelor's degree in 1987. My father died during my last semester of college, but I know he was doing the happy dance in heaven when I walked across the stage at Commencement!

As you probably know, parents sometimes withhold information from their children for reasons that we don't always understand, and my parents were experts at keeping information to themselves “until the time was right.” One day, my parents decided to share some family history with me that let me know my future had been set long before I was born.

My paternal grandparents, Molly and Centry Prince Sr., were strong advocates of education for their children. My grandmother died when my father was three years old, and one of her last requests was that all eight of her children graduate from school. Three of the six boys and both girls graduated from college with degrees in education and began teaching in the 1940s and 1950s. Molly and Centry Sr.'s first born, William, stayed at home to help run the farm and in 1929 he moved to Cleveland and made it his home. After WWII, Uncle William opened a barbershop on Quincy Avenue and employed several barbers for over 40 years. Years later, my father followed his brother to Cleveland, and while working as a federal government employee, he and several business partners formed their own life insurance company, Pilot Mutual Insurance. The apple didn't fall far from the tree. Although both my grandfather, Centry Prince Sr. and his brother Elijah had little formal schooling, they were enterprising enough to tap into their natural gifts and talents, and purchased their own store in Sumter, South Carolina. Eventually they became prosperous and supported the community by providing seed money to local entrepreneurs.

The story didn't end there. My maternal grandparents, Levi and Ara Crawford, raised their eight children with a strict emphasis on hard work and education. Poppa Levi

had been a teacher for many years , and after many years of service, he was appointed Superintendent of Schools in Aberdeen, Mississippi. Following in their father's footsteps, four of their six daughters – including my mother - earned degrees in education and became teachers. So as destiny would have it, all four of Centry and Mildred Prince's children graduated from college and are enjoying fulfilling careers as teachers and entrepreneurs.

From generations past to the present, my family has benefited from education and the development of our natural gifts and talents to jumpstart our career paths. My son Kyle is aware of the diversity in his family history, and whether he becomes an entrepreneur, a teacher or a health care professional, I believe his path was set by his great-grandparents, his grandparents and his parents who paved the way for him to have the choices, freedoms and opportunities to fulfill his dreams.

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© Stephen Coburn

Making a First Impression: Using Practicality to Succeed in Workplace Communication Mahli Xuan Mechenbier Kent State University: Geauga

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n age-old adage universally states, “the first impression is a lasting impression,” so as you venture into the workforce, you want to leave the best impression with individuals you meet. Your physical appearance is important: Characteristics associated with your look can range from organized to chaotic, from detailoriented to unsystematic, and from punctual to lastminute.

Ask yourself this question, “At work, how do people perceive me?”

An outfit which does not quite match may exhibit disorganization; a pair of pants improperly hemmed may impart carelessness. As a workplace professional, you are a member of a team, and you are a representative of your company. You are an information resource, speaking with vendors, suppliers, co-workers, and customers throughout the day.

Much like office clothing—which is illustrative of you as an employee—written communication should be neat and professional. An office document must be clear, adhere to format standards, be correct, and observe principles of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and usage.

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Individuals who meet you will have a strong first impression of the document just by scanning it, and you—and your employer—can look unprofessional if the writing is faulty. Clients and co-workers are less likely to accept your tips and suggestions if they distrust your professionalism.

Take the time to proofread all electronic correspondence prior to hitting “send” on an email.

Misreading or misinterpreting electronic tone happens too often in an office setting. Telling a co-worker to her face, “That skirt is a little short,” while smiling and looking apologetic conveys your message much differently than typing, “That skirt is a little short,” in an email (where your colleague may read the sentence as cold, abrupt, or judgmental). Be aware of how you are being read in electronic messages—and remember that your recipient is a person who can be affected (and insulted) by how you communicate.

Your body language also sets the tone for how others interact with you: It only takes a few seconds for a person to evaluate you, and first impressions are nearly impossible to reverse. A person meeting you will form opinions regarding your appearance, attitude, patterns of speech, and clothing; it is essential to be attentive to your smile, personal grooming habits, strength of eye contact, and self-assured posture. Practice your stance in front of a full-length mirror, inquiring again, “How do people perceive me?”

Be polite and friendly. Convey to your audience that people like you. Confidence and courtesy signify that you are competent at your job. Your body language should indicate “I accept that responsibility and I will complete the task to the best of my ability.”

Communicating with energy demonstrates you are proficient and capable of taking on additional assignments.

Use co-workers' and clients' names.

Ask them questions about projects they are working on.

Modern communication methods make it too easy to “talk” via Facebook or Instagram; however, sometimes simple, informal, old-fashioned, face-toface dialogue sustains a business connection most effectively.

When communicating in the workplace—whether through your clothing, appearance, demeanor, writing, or approach—be aware of how others react to you. Success in the workplace is a combination of balancing you-as-an-individual with you-as-acommunicator with you-as-an-employee. Put your most professional self forward each day: Each individual with whom you correspond makes you more aware of how people interact—and collaborate—in a workplace community.

Many dynamic elements intersect in an office environment. Dress professionally. Exchange ideas.

Show an interest in others. Use and apply evaluative reviews to improve the quality of your work.

Communicate kindly and with tact. Make good first impressions.

Your colleagues will be appreciative of your efforts.

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ahli Xuan Mechenbier i s a n Associate Lecturer in the Department of English at Kent State University: Geauga where she teaches Technical Writing and Business & Professional Writing.

She has published “Cheating the Business Template: Filling in the Blanks” in Business Communication Quarterly which focuses on aspects of workplace plagiarism.

Mahli enjoys teaching the professional aspects of writing and stresses the importance of word choice and accurate conveyance in her courses—especially since electronic communication in business settings can be easily misconstrued. In class, Prof. Mechenbier discusses the challenges of online writing tone so that her students will enter the workplace with an awareness of how writing represents them as new college graduates and professionals.

Mahli graduated with a Master of Arts in English Literature from John Carroll University and a Juris Doctor from The University of Akron. Mahli was adopted from South Vietnam through Operation Babylift. She has two cats and one hamster.

Please direct questions or comments to mmechenb@kent.edu.

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COVER STORY

Kirsten M. Ellenbogen, Ph.D. President & CEO, Great Lakes Science Center

MOTIVATING YOUNG MINDS AND ENGAGING THEM IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATH (STEM) Photo: Eric Benson

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COVER STORY - Dr. Kirsten M. Ellenbogen

By Shelley Shockley Managing Editor

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omen fill close to half of the jobs in the U.S., but they hold less than one fourth of those occupations in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The U.S. Department of Commerce reports that the majority of women with STEM degrees work in education or healthcare.

Cleveland has the honor of having a leader in STEM education and research leading the continued growth of the Great Lakes Science Center (GLSC). The center works to motivate young minds and engage them in STEM and as a result aims to foster innovation and ingenuity that will strengthen the workforce pipeline here in Northeast Ohio.

After a six-month national search, Kirsten Ellenbogen, Ph. D. was chosen to serve as the President and CEO of this nationally recognized science and technology center.

With a B.A. degree from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. in Science Education from Vanderbilt University, Ellenbogen brings more than 25 years of experience to her new role as president and CEO of the center.

Phenomenal Woman Magazine recently sat down with Dr. Ellenbogen gaining insight on the scientist and educating the community on the importance of Informal STEM education.

It was a rainy chilly Cleveland afternoon as Ellenbogen cleared her table to discuss her passion with us.

Overlooking Lake Erie, the gloominess of the day was

immediately washed away in the effervescent personality of the President of the GLSC. During our conversation Ellenbogen referred to science as “not your grandfather's science class,” well she is definitely not your grandfather or your mother's science Ph. D. As we begin our discussion on Informal STEM or Science Education, it is clear that President Ellenbogen is passionate about this subject. Referring to the revolution of science and our perceptions of it she says that it is not just natural science but “an intersection of science specialties.

Natural science is critical, but it can't be the only part of science education. When you get into labs there is so much overlap into other areas.”

Ellenbogen speaks from experience. She has worked as a lab scientist as well as an educator and found that the education side of the business was more suited for her personality. A native of Detroit, she grew up in a household where the love of science flowed freely. Her mom, a Cleveland native, studied science and passed that passion to her daughter.

As a high school student Ellenbogen loved science but really thought that she would become a lawyer. However, the pull of the microscope was stronger. She participated in an afterschool and weekend summer job as a research assistant, which she describes as “very cool and terrifying at the same time.” Her work at the Michigan Cancer Foundation involved working in the lab using the transition electron microscope where she learned how to process tissue sample in immunological research – this was the cool part.

(Continued on next page)

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

Photo: Mikerussell at en.wikipedia

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COVER STORY

Photo: Eric Benson

Dr. Kirsten M. Ellenbogen, Motivating Young Minds The scary part of the job was miscalculating something in the process and shutting down the machine something Ellenbogen admits to doing.

enter into. All of the work on the ground level led to her first job out of college with the Museum of Science & Industry developing exhibits.

More importantly that research would serve as the basis for projects she entered into science fairs, and would ultimately serve as the beginning of her journey into informal science education. “During the Science and Engineering Fair I met Cory Van Fleet who was the CEO of the Detroit Science Center and he said he would like to offer me a job.” She thought the job sounded cool and it was a great opportunity because it was right across the street from her lab research job meaning she could work both jobs. The offer speaks to Ellenbogen's personality and a fact about herself that she would soon learn. She explained, “In winning the prize in the Science Fair, half of winning is standing and articulating what you did,” this was the gift she thought would send her to law school instead it set the stage for a career of educating.

During this time Ellenbogen found herself working half on exhibits and half on education. While trying to figure out how to help visitors understand lift she found, “the more I asked and the more I searched for answers, I found the research to be very limited.” This led to her enrolling in graduate school to find the answer of how she could help others understand the components of science.

As she worked both jobs, she began to realize that she had the most fun at the Science Center and it was a much better fit, “I loved working in the lab, but it was in the basement and secluded – I needed people.”

Over the course of her collegiate career, she worked at various museums including the Field Museum and Capital Children's Museum serving as demonstrator, docent, facilitator and more. This experience offered insight into a career in Museums, which she says was a hard field to 16 ▒ MAY-JUNE 2014

Her energetic leadership during the last two decades has advanced informal STEM education through four centers with a national or international scope, and a combined funding of more than $30M. These centers were designed to create infrastructure, provide training, and measure the impact of informal STEM education.

For example, Ellenbogen was the founding project director of the Center for Informal Learning and Schools at King's College London, which was designed to develop a new generation of leaders who could better, understand and support learning across formal and informal settings.

Currently, Ellenbogen is co-principal investigator of the Center for Advancement of Informal Science Education that works in collaboration with the National Science Foundation to strengthen and advance the field of informal STEM education and its infrastructure by providing resources and building community.

COVER STORY - Dr. Kirsten M. Ellenbogen Most recently, Ellenbogen was Senior Director for Lifelong Learning at the Science Museum of Minnesota. She has also been appointed to Section X of the British Association for the Advancement of Science and to the National Academy of Sciences' committee that produced the volume, Learning Science in Informal Environments.

At the crux of Ellenbogen's work and research is the philosophy that the world offers many informal settings for us to learn about science, and not just learn but understand the principles as they relate to daily living.

To help explain the importance of informal learning Ellenbogen explains “the percentage of your life that you spend in the classroom is not that large,” but the things you can learn outside that setting is huge. Demonstrating the role that science plays in everyday life she notes, “there is nanotechnology being used today in socks to prevent odor and in fabric to prevent stains.” Understanding this technology which is scientific in makeup becomes important for the masses she says because the very small particles are released into the water stream after washing.

Learning and knowing about things like this are instrumental in decision making in everything from what you purchase to how you cast your vote she says. “Science is all around us, the television has science on it, when you go to the park – that's a designed space and science is everywhere.”

Ellenbogen describes the Science Center as “an invisible infrastructure and my job is to make it visible. We have lots of resources and we must find ways to integrate them with everyone.” This is challenging, however she says the environment in Cleveland is very welcoming and that the GLSC “is extraordinary and outpaces what the cities of our size should have.”

In its role as an informal science education center, the GLSC has many offerings from housing the ninth grade of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District's MC2 STEM High School, several summer camp offerings for students from elementary through high school and many more programs. Additionally the Center has offerings for adults in the evenings, helping to show how science impacts our lives on all levels.

Dr. Ellenbogen's knowledge and experience works well with the center’s motto...“To know science, you need to do science. And the best place to do science is at Great Lakes Science Center.”

Photo: Eric Benson

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Simply Stephanie

Living in Destiny©

Gender and the fight for education

By Stephanie Phelps Contributing Writer

All over the globe women and girls are fighting for and see the value of education. Education, in almost every instance is the great equalizer, offering the opportunity to live in destiny, to achieve greatness and the highest possible potential. Each year, during the months of May and June countless students – including women and girls – celebrate the culmination of formal educational pursuits in the form of graduation and recognition ceremonies across the US. This is true whether it be large, formal college and university commencement ceremonies at prestigious institutions from the likes of a Harvard or Yale University; Spellman College or closer to home at Case Western Reserve University. Whether the commencement address or graduation speech is delivered by a high profile celebrity such as Oprah Winfrey, the late Steve Jobs, a learned academician, the President of the United States or anyone in-between the message is loud and clear; education matters and it matters a lot.

As much as increased education and training, of all kinds, has become a necessity in our modernized society, especially in the quest for pay equity and as a means to end a gender specific poverty cycle, there are those who would deny women and girls the right to any education at all. At this writing, the kidnapping of more than 230 girls, from their school in Nigeria, is the manifestation of such thinking. Interestingly, those in positions of power seemed to be concerned very little to the movement “#BringBackOurGirls.” The likely reason for these kidnapping is even more interesting. Could it be the business of sexual slavery? It’s been reported that the kidnappers have threatened to sell some of these girls for $12 dollars each.

In a Huffington Post Blog, Michael Roth, President of Wesleyan University writes that an Islamist extremist group has claimed responsibility for the kidnappings. They cite and justify taking the girls due to influence from Western society of educating girls and its negative impact on conventional religious beliefs, piety and submission to men.

So now what? What lessons should we, here in the US and more importantly, locally, learn from this? If nothing else, we need to understand that education is crucial to the uplifting and empowerment of women. We must stand up to the injustice and dehumanization of women, whether it's across the street, across the country or around the world. This means speaking up and speaking out, it means righting unfair child labor practices, child marriage and gender based violence. An attack against any one of us is an attack against every one of us. Consider Malala Yousafzi the Pakistani girl who took a bullet to the head, emerging victorious, in an unwavering battle for education. If Malala was willing to stare mortal danger in the face, surely we must focus on educating ourselves and stressing the pursuit of education, over beauty, to our daughters. We can do it. Oh, yes we can!

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FEATURE - TERRIAN NOWDEN, NASA ENGINEER

With perseverance and support,

Terrian Nowden

made her way to NASA

By Shelley M. Shockley Managing Editor

A

s a youngster Terrian Nowden loved mathematics, she loved to sit down, take her time

and figure out how to solve a problem. She also loved tinkering; particularly taking things apart and figuring out how to put them back together. Even with the zeal and interest she had in math she wasn't excelling, but with the support of a loving family and an intuitive college instructor she overcame those obstacles. Today, Nowden is a Power Systems Analyst on the Electrical Power Systems (EPS) team for the International Space Station (ISS) at the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field, but growing up she says, “I never imagined having my work associated with the space station!”

Nowden is somewhat of an anomaly in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, she has a STEM degree and she works directly in the field.

Research has found that most women with STEM related degrees are more likely to work in the healthcare and

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education fields. The Department of Commerce states that “lack of female role models, gender stereotyping and less family-friendly flexibility in the STEM fields attribute to these discrepancies.”

Despite the success she has garnered, Nowden realizes that hard work and the support of her family and professors have played an integral part in her success.

Additionally she understood at an early age that no matter how hard you try sometimes you will not receive the end result you were seeking. She recalls an experience as a youngster when she took a clock radio apart, and no matter how many times she tried, she couldn't put it back together.

Undaunted, she continued to tinker and became the go-to person in her Cleveland neighborhood to repair broken bicycles. Similarly, Nowden really enjoyed math as a high school student but she found roadblocks that would derail the hopes of the average student. She explains, “It was really frustrating. I could tutor my best friend who was an honor student, but I was getting B's and C's.”

FEATURE STORY Again her perseverance prevailed as she enrolled in Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) and continued studying math. “I took every math course that Tri-C had to offer. I jumped in and kept going,” again she wasn't acing the courses, but she didn't stop.

This can-do spirit proved to be the perfect formula for Nowden because as a student at Tri-C, the extra boost of confidence was unearthed when an instructor took notice of the math student. Nowden recalls, “He told me I was smart, you know all of the steps to solving the problem, it's just that you freeze when it comes to testing.”

Tri-C was not only where Nowden regained her self-confidence, but it would also lead her to her long career with NASA. As a student she worked in the Co-operative Education Office and one of her duties was to receive incoming calls from employers who wanted to list co-op positions for students. When NASA called to post various technician positions, Nowden took down all of the information, posted the positions and then set-up her own interview.

The cool thing about math is if you put your time in on it, it comes.

Terrian Nowden Once the student has reached the collegiate level she says, “talk to your instructors – they are human beings,” and they can and will help you. Most importantly she says, “You must put in the work. This is a huge commitment and you can get tutors and talk to instructors but if you don't apply what they are teaching, you it won't work.”

As a result, she would spend the next fifteen years working as a Technician at NASA before deciding to complete her degree. As a student at the University of Akron, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, Nowden would encounter more obstacles.

Although she was performing well as a mature student working full-time and attending classes, she realized that she needed to develop a “new method of preparation.”

A lot of what she learned she shares to youngsters she tutors today. “I correlate math to what they enjoy. As an example if their interest is basketball, I'll give them the scenario that it takes this much time to score this many points – how are you going to accomplish the end goal,” without realizing it at first that student has just successfully completed an algebra problem.

In terms of advice to young girls seeking careers in STEM disciplines, Nowden strongly encourages enlisting the help of tutors if you are having difficulty, “when I was coming up my mother and father couldn't help me and this is challenging for a lot of folks. So you have to seek outside help.”

When seeking this help she strongly advises that you interview tutors because you have to have a good fit with teaching style and personality.

When Nowden isn't computing complex equations on the job, one of her favorite hobbies is skiing. She has been skiing for a number of years, and enjoyed regular ski trips with her late dad.

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Scott Miller, Dominion East Ohio vice president and general manager, (pictured far left) celebrates with representatives of Northeast Shores Development Corp., which received a $10,000 Community Improvement Award. Photo by Thom Sheridan, Inside Business Magazine.

Dominion Presents $110,000 in Community Impact Awards Dominion East Ohio has presented $110,000 in grants to 13 winning community organizations in its 19th annual Community Impact Awards competition, co-sponsored with Inside Business Magazine.

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Northeast Shores Development Corp. received $10,000 for its work in promoting growth of the Waterloo Arts District in Cleveland's North Shore Collinwood neighborhood.

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Slavic Village Development received $10,000 for its Neighbors Invest in Broadway project, which helps residents purchase and refurbish formerly foreclosed and abandoned homes in this historic Cleveland district

A panel of community judges chose the winners from among more than 60 entries, submitted by organizations throughout northeast Ohio. The award recognizes cities or organizations that have made an impact in the community. The Dominion Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dominion Resources Inc., Dominion East Ohio's parent company, funds the Community Impact grants.

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Gordon Square Arts District received $10,000 for its role in transforming a once moribund section of Cleveland's Detroit Shoreway neighborhood into a thriving arts district.

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Since 1996, Dominion East Ohio and the Dominion Foundation have distributed more than $1.2 million in Community Impact Awards to organizations throughout its service area.

Neighborhood Development Services of Barberton received $5,000 for its Lake 8 Movies project, which renovated, modernized and revived a 1938-era downtown cinema.

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The Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber of Commerce received $5,000 for its work in brokering a grant of free access to Siemens' Project Lifecycle Management software for Youngstown State University, a gift that carried a $440 million retail market value.

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Ohio City Inc. received $5,000 for developing the Near West Recreation program, which enables city youth a chance to play organized baseball at a family-friendly price.

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Stark Education Partnership received $5,000 for its Now We Know program, which helps local school districts track the progress of students beyond graduation.

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Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corp. received $5,000 in honor of its Take a Hike guided tours of Cleveland neighborhoods.

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Western Reserve Land Conservancy received $10,000 as winner of the second annual special Environmental Award for its work in helping preserve the Lake Erie Bluffs scenic shoreline in Lake County from planned industrial and commercial development.

This year's Community Impact Award winners are: ·

The St. Clair Superior Development Corporation received $12,500 for its Cleveland Flea program, a monthly collection of venders selling their wares, which has rejuvenated the East Side neighborhood.

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Kent State University received $12,500 for its joint efforts with the City of Kent in fostering $110 million in revitalization projects that have linked the school with the city's downtown.

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LAND Studio received $10,000 for its work in transforming the once neglected Perk Park to an oasis of greenery in the heart of downtown Cleveland.

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The Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland (MOCA Cleveland) received $10,000 in recognition of the positive community and economic impact of its new, 34,000-square foot home in the Uptown District of Cleveland's University Circle.

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Some of the current students at Henry Johnson Academy

Education:

A powerful MEANS TO transform lives...

D

espite being born to low income teenage parents and raised in a difficult neighborhood, Angela Isom fought all odds, obtained a Doctorate in Education and is making a huge contribution to the betterment of communities in Ohio.

A graduate of prestigious ivy schools, Harvard and Case Western University, and several other schools of higher education, but no stranger to poverty and homelessness, Isom decided to give back to the community through establishing The Henry Johnson Center and The Henry Johnson Academy (school) to improve the lives of communities in need of help.

Isom says, “I started the Henry Johnson Center in 2004 to combat the poverty and illiteracy that I witnessed on a daily basis during my youth. Very few of my ancestors attended college or even graduated from high school. Even as a little girl, I believed that a better life was possible for my people. I was also motivated to start the center because I didn't want other youth to follow in my footsteps by becoming delinquent or truant.”

The center is named after her deceased great grandfather, Henry Johnson Sr. who passed at the age of 94 after providing low income housing and other support services to those in need for several decades. The center's database of clients is about 600 individuals.

Reflecting back, Isom said “once I reached middle school, I was forced to drop out due to harassment from gangs. Eventually, I stopped attending high school, until I was arrested for truancy. I like to joke that God is forcing me to make up all the years of school that I missed by using me as a teacher.” She continued, “I missed several years of school but I spent a lot of that time reading (although my friends never knew it!). My mom taught me how to read when I was very young. She even taught me how to cook, budget and run a household before the age of 10.

My dad says that when I went wild and hit the streets as a teenager, he prayed for me daily because he didn't know what else to do. He probably saved my life. I'm a living example of what a family that works together can produce. When the schools gave up on me, my family didn't. In fact, at the beginning of my senior year, my mom went to court with me and begged the judge to let me finish school. I was grateful. Not only 24 ▒ MAY-JUNE 2014

did I finish, I made the honor roll every semester and earned a full scholarship to college.”

Isom's major challenge was her being a single mom during most of her higher education training. She says “when my son was 2 years old, I was teaching my baby lessons from my Master's degree classes. It was the only way that I could spend time with him and earn my degree—I refused to neglect either. As a result, my son graduated from 2 colleges before the age of 17.”

However, not everything went smooth on Dr. Isom's big plans.

The center lost approximately $100,000 worth of goods due to vandalism but her firm commitment to the noble causes of the center and her strong faith in God never stopped her from fulfilling her dreams. She used her savings and raised funds from every source that could be found to ensure the functionality of the center. With these efforts, she revived the activities of the center and services are now being provided to needy community members. As the needs are enormous, there is a two month waiting list for the school mainly due to space limitations says Isom. “There are spaces in Dayton, Akron and Cleveland Heights. Nevertheless, in Cleveland (where we are most in demand), we have to offer week day and weekend classes just to meet the need. The second challenge is paying staff similar salaries to those paid by public schools. We work with a high risk population and hence insurance costs are very high and this consumes a significant portion of the funds that we raise.”

Isom says, “To be admitted, potential students must attend an orientation, complete an entrance exam and an interview, and submit transcripts for evaluation. Most of our students have been denied a diploma because they were unable to pass the OGT.” she added, “We offer accelerated programs for special cases such as these. Students pay $50 per semester plus graduation fees. The center provides workshops, field trips, free tickets to local events, and youth enrichment activities. The same students that were considered failures at other schools often flourish at the Henry Johnson Academy. We've accomplished a lot in the past 10 years including a personal visit from President Bush in 2005 and being quoted in US News & World Reports in 2011.”

At the end of 2013, the graduation ratio for the Henry Johnson Academy was 95%. The Academy is a Private Christian School and the curriculum combines high school and college class work.

This significantly increases the chances that a student is ready for college upon graduating. Similar to most employers, the school has strict attendance and tardy policies. In the past, valedictorians have performed exceptionally well in college upon graduating from the school.

“The greatest difference between our center and many other centers is that it still feels like a home away from home. I still know each person's name. Everyone is very close. We bring food and enjoy meals together. We often give birthday parties for our members,” Isom stated.

Explaining her hectic schedule, Dr. Isom said “My quarterly duties include collaborating with the Board of Directors to promote the agency, recruiting staff and board members, evaluating the agency, and conducting research studies related to our target population. My daily activities include teaching, developing curriculum, grading coursework, raising funds, supervising other teachers, and conducting new student orientations.”

Dr. Isom has authored two books after being motivated by the center's clients to share her stories. She says “40 Life Saving Scriptures is simply a journal containing 40 of the scriptures that helped me to become the woman that I am today and Thongs and Bra Straps reveals the pain, tears, and healing that I experienced during my teen years.”

On her upcoming book she stated “This August, I am releasing a book that will help students understand APA formatting for college papers. As a college instructor, I have noticed that my students didn't struggle as much as students from other courses because I developed several helpful tips and tools. Therefore, I've compiled many of them into a small text that helps students learn APA in less than a week.”

Isom has also plans to expand mental health services component late next year. On the basis of rigorous studies, she stated that “mood disorders, mental illness, and problems of home have prevented our students from completing school more than an inability to learn.” The key to success, she says “schools should spend more time identifying each student's gift.

Students have shown to perform better in schools that acknowledge their skills and learning styles.”

Isom gives high credit for her success and protection to her strong Christian faith. In her spare time, she mentors hundreds of people. People of all ages and backgrounds call her for advice

Dr. Angela Isom

about school, work, and life. She states, “I'm in constant prayers because some of the questions that I receive are really challenging. I also have to be mindful to answer them the way that I think God would answer instead of just saying what I personally think.”

She stated “people that need help, people that like our work, or people that want to help us but don't have time can participate by liking us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ henryjohnsoncenter. We are a 501 C 3 organization. This means that people can donate clothes and accessories, small household appliances and furnishings, and funds to us and it's all tax deductible. Our donors can create their own scholarship funds. Readers can start a scholarship in the name of a spouse, a deceased family member, or a child. Our smallest scholarship is $25 and this covers 50% of a student's tuition. Our largest scholarship is $500 and this will cover tuition for 10 students!”

To reach The Henry Johnson Center, send email to: henryjohnsoncenter@gmail.com or call 216 592-8521.

More student photos

www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 25

Fastest growing occupations: 20 occupations with the highest percent change of employment between 2012-22.

Occupation Education Industrial Organizational Psychologists

Personal care aides Home health aides Insulation workers, Mechanical Interpreters and translators Diagnostic medical sonographers Helpers- brickmasons, blockmasons and tile and marble setters Occupational therapy assistants Genetic councilors Physical therapist assistants Physical therapist aides Skin care specialists Physician assistants Segmental pavers Helpers-electricians Information security analysts Occupational therapy aides Health specialists teachers, post-secondary

Medical secretaries Physical therapists

Growth Rate (2012-2022)

2012 Median Pay

53% 49% 48% 47% 46% 46%

$83,580 $19,910 $20,820 $39,170 $45,430 $65,860

43% 43% 41% 41% 40% 40% 38% 38% 37% 37% 36% 36% 36% 36%

$28,220 per year $53,240 per year $56,800 per year $52,160 per year $23,880 per year $28,640 per year $90,930 per year $33,720 per year $27,670 per year $86,170 per year $26,850 per year $81,140 per year $31,350 per year $79,860 per year

per per per per per per

year year year year year year

Source: US Department of Labor.

Did you know that in the US, women have made significant progress in pursuing education... yet, serious challenges remain ahead!

SOME FACTS.......

Between 1970 to 2009, the percentage of women with at least a high school education rose from 59 percent to about 87 percent.

The percentage of women aged 25-34 with at least a college degree has more than tripled since 1968, while the share of men with a college degree increased by one-half.

In 2008, the immediate college enrollment rate for all females was higher than that for all males, 72 percent versus 66 percent.

In 1998, more doctoral degrees were conferred to men than women. A decade later, more doctoral degrees were conferred to women than men.

HOWEVER,........

Women's share of degrees conferred in engineering and computer sciences at the college level is less than 20 percent.

Female students generally score lower than male students in mathematics assessment tests and higher in reading assessment tests.

Source: US Department of Commerce.

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SUMMER FASHION:

Featuring Sassy Lady Boutique By: Marianna Marron PWM Contributing Writer

After a long harsh and dreary winter, we are long overdue for some sunshine. We can also create our own sunshine with our fashion. Orange, hot pink, teal, embrace the beauty of summer with color. This summer fashion is all about bright colors, Aztec patterns and accessories, the bolder-the beautiful! From dresses to tennis shoes, neon colors are setting the scene this summer. So put away your black, brown and navy blue and pull out your lime green and yellow to brighten up the day!

We all know that throughout the summer there are several white parties in various cities, but you don't need an invitation to wear white. White is a beautiful light color that is great for a summer day. So for those who may not want to embrace the bright colors yet, no worries, you will be just as bright in white.

Accessories this season are also bright in color and large in size. Whether a necklace or a bracelet, you can dress up a tank top and capris or your favorite maxi dress with an oversized accessory.

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“Be the change you wish to see!” While this is a famous quote by Mahatma Gandhi- it is also the motto for Sassy Lady Boutique owner Shuywanna Ford, - with a fashionable twist.

Shuywanna believes that women should use fashion as a change agent to help embrace who they are. Be the change you wish to see—in You! Allow your fashion choices to enhance who you are on the inside or reflect who you want to be and how you want to be perceived. Sometimes you may not feel beautiful on the inside, on these days – choose to wear your most beautiful fashion pieces anyway and soon you will feel as beautiful and as “Sassy” as you look.

Located in Garfield Heights, OH, Sassy Lady Boutique opened its doors in October, 2010. It was a blessing behind a closed door, owner Shuywanna recalls.

Shuywanna is a Navy Veteran and was seeking a new opportunity. One day when she was in a hair salon, her beautician commented on Shuywanna's remarkable fashion sense, especially her jewelry. The beautician encouraged Shuywanna to sell her jewelry and gathered salon patrons together for Shuywanna's first jewelry party. The party was a success, Shuywanna received excellent feedback and this was the pivotal moment in the formation of Sassy Lady Boutique.

FASHION

S

huywanna admits that being a boutique owner requires hard work, time and determination which she is no stranger to. She encourages others “to work from the bottom and grow from there. When trouble comes, look it in the eye and fight back, work even harder to come out victorious and no matter what- Never Give up!”

In the past, suffering with confidence and self-esteem herself, Shuywanna believes that it is important for every woman to find her pretty/strength and embrace it. “Purchase items that you are drawn to, and that will bring out the Sassy lady in you!”

Featured are ELYSTA Models: Ilyse, Ariana, Sheritha “Star”, Elexia and Cybil.

Photo credit: Karen Morris.

For information on how your boutique, jewelry store, hair solon, etc. could be featured, please contact us at info@phenomenalwoman.me or ELYSTA Productions at 440-345-6635. www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 29

FASHION

30 ▒ MAY-JUNE 2014

COMFORT COUNTS Sizing Up Bra Shopping

(Family Features) Despite having hundreds of options to choose from, finding the right bra — in the right fit, style and color — is a task many women dread.

However, getting smart about how to choose the best bra for your unique shape and needs will ease your mind, so your only worry is finding the perfect outfit to wear with it.

Comfort is key Ensuring you've found the right size bra means little if it doesn't feel good. In fact, women's No. 1 complaint when shopping for a bra is finding a size that is comfortable.

Innovation may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of bras, but a quick visit to the lingerie department of any retailer demonstrates today's selections are a far cry from undergarments of decades past. New developments in bras — especially the emerging use of seamless knit technology and flexible fabrics and components — give much greater attention to comfort in fit, while also delivering support and style.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Many popular brands have introduced flexible fit bra lines using seamless construction and advanced components such as straps, cups and bands that feel customized to the wearer.

The flexibility of these bras has led some bra brands to replace the traditional cup-and-band sizing system with a simplified alpha Smart Size system. Similar to sports bra sizing, this sizing system makes it easy to find the right bra quickly. The brands say that 10 simplified seamless, shape-to-fit Smart Sizes ranging from XS to 5X are equivalent to more than 30 cupand-band sizes ranging from 30A to 52DD. “Smart Sizes revolutionizes how women fit and buy their bras,” said Sandy Waitz, vice president of intimate apparel design and development for HanesBrands, one of the largest intimate apparel companies in the world. “With the flexible fit properties of Smart Sizes, women can find a bra that literally molds to their individual shape, including unique fit

challenges such as between sizes and unevenly sized breasts.”

Popular bra brands like Bali, Hanes, Playtex, Barely There and Just My Size all offer bras with Smart Sizes that are available at leading retailers around the country.

Size it up For years, experts have lamented that the majority of women are wearing the wrong size bra. The complexity and limits of traditional cup-and-band sizes can exacerbate finding the right fit. Here are indicators of a problem fit: § If the cup is not filled out, or it wrinkles, a smaller cup or a contour cup may be needed. § If flesh overflows, a larger cup or a fuller cut style may provide a better fit. § The band should be snug to the chest; if it rides up, it is too loose or the wrong size. § If the straps dig into your shoulders, you need a more supportive cup and frame. Your straps should not be doing any of the “lifting.”

Bra Care 101 Follow these guidelines to keep your bras in tip-top condition: § To avoid snags, tears and underwires poking through, hand wash bras in cold water using laundry detergent formulated for delicate washing. § If you must machine wash, always place bras in a lingerie bag and use a delicate wash setting with a cool water temperature. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions regarding how many items your bag can accommodate to avoid overfilling. § Always air dry bras; heat will damage stretchy fabric and result in misshaping over time.

Signs that it's time to replace your bra: § You spill over the cups or no longer fill them. § The bra rides up and/or straps fall down on a consistent basis. § You're experiencing back or posture problems. § Your bra has rips, tears, pilling or other damage, such as color fading. § You're uncomfortable.

Smart Solutions: For women looking to simplify their lives and lingerie drawers, consider these tips from bra experts Fluctuating bra size If you find your best fit falls between traditional sizes, your bra size changes due to weight loss or gain or you have unevenly sized breasts, a flexible fit bra that offers a more custom fit may be your best choice. Many flexible fit bras also take the guesswork out of finding the right bra size with easy-to-find sizes like XS through 5X.

Larger sizes Look for bras that eliminate uncomfortable seams and slipping straps. For example, the Just My Size Pure Comfort Seamless Wirefree Bra, available in 1X to 5X, boasts an innovative, seamless construction that offers knit-in support. The wide-bottom band helps prevent roll-up, the broad straps eliminate slippage and a wide rounded back delivers a touch of smoothing.

Wardrobe versatility When you want to avoid showing straps under your favorite tops, look for bras with convertible straps and cups designed for a plunging neckline, such as Hanes Wirefree Everyday Comfort Convertible Push-Up or Bali Comfort Revolution Smart Sizes Convertible Straps bra.

Active lifestyle When your day keeps you on the run and in need of a supportive bra without the compression of a sports bra, try the Playtex Play Funwinder bra.

This style provides seamless support with cushioned adjustable straps, lightly padded cups and wicks away moisture to keep you cool through all your daily activities.

Color coordination If you want to avoid the peek-a-boo bra in a light-weight or thin top try wearing a bra in a complementing color. The Barely There CustomFlex Fit collection offers a variety of styles and color options, allowing you to move beyond the basic white, black and nude shades.

Underwire support Look for styles that provide the support of a traditional underwire bra but with a wirefree feel. For example, Bali Comfort Revolution Smart Sizes Underwire features a comfortable underwire that delivers support and knit-in zones that provide targeted shaping. www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 31

natural health (or other bentonite powder) and pour the infusion into it.

Stir and add desired amount of water or more clay into the mix to suit your preference. Make sure it has well cooled off before applying to your face, leave on face for 15 to 20 minutes and gently remove with a damp washcloth.

By Marjorie Clark Contributing Writer

Red Clover Tea Red clover tea is not only pleasant tasting and caffeine free, but also beneficial in purifying the blood. Red clover helps the lung to expel mucus. It is helpful to people with psoriasis and eczema as it is a great anti inflammatory.

Red Clover aids one to get rid of excess fluids and helps women with menopausal issues. It is also a great source of vitamins and minerals.

Cool off this summer with Mangos!

Mangos are not only delicious and cooling snack on a hot day, but they are also packed full of antioxidants – that protects you against breast and colon cancers to name a few. They are also a great source of vitamins A and C as well as beneficial enzymes that keep the body young and healthy. Enzymes are anti-inflammatory as well as necessary to digest food. The body is always striving to make these enzymes.

The best source to get enzymes is from raw foods such as mangos.

Mango Butter for Beautiful Skin and Hair Mango butter is made from the pits of the mangos themselves and is a great moisturizer as well as one of the most nourishing substances one can use as the summer sun takes a beating on us. It has a higher fatty acid content than shea butter (although shea is also excellent and should be used in conjunction) as well as high in vitamins A and E that the skin needs to help reverse and prevent sun damage.

For hundreds of years people of India have benefitted from the use of this delicious smelling butter in the very hot climate .

Purifying clay and red clover skin mask In a small tea cup, steep one red clover tea bag in one eighth of a cup of boiled water. Let it steep for at least 10 minutes. Take two teaspoons of dry Indian healing clay 32 â–’ MAY-JUNE 2014

Superfood!

If you love to taste new things or have an adventurous palette, consider trying Teff bread. Packed full of nutrients this tiny gluten free grain has been a main staple in Ethiopia for thousands of years and has become more and more popular here in the US. It is an excellent source of fiber, loaded with calcium and iron and rich in minerals and vitamins. Above all it is delicious with a delicate nutty flavor.

You can use Teff flour to make muffins, pancakes, breads, etc. There are many recipes available on the internet. You can buy Teff flour online, in traditional Ethiopian groceries, Heinen's, Costco to name a few.

Allergies?

Try brewing a cup of Nettles tea. It has been successfully used for hay fever symptoms. Nettles tea is a good source of vitamins and minerals as well as lycopene (an antioxidant found in tomatoes) that helps to protect against sun damage and cancer.

Nettles also has a slight blood sugar lowering effect (so take with caution if you are on medications or talk with your physician) It has a diuretic effect which helps the body to get rid of excess water.

The above is not a medical advice; please consult your physician before starting any regimen.

Simple Skincare Secrets Skin is the largest organ in the body and it's important to protect and care for it in order to keep it looking healthy and vibrant. Daily exposure to elements such as low humidity, harsh winds, ultraviolet rays, even your laundry detergent and makeup can take their toll, resulting in dry or irritated skin.

Properly caring for your skin means more than simply washing your face twice a day. Moisture, exfoliation and diet also play key roles in your skin's overall wellbeing. Following these simple tips will help you achieve an all-over healthy glow: Healthy Living · Adopt healthy lifestyle changes that reap rewards for your entire body, skin included. Drink plenty of water, get adequate sleep, practice stress management, take a daily multivitamin and eat a well-balanced diet. · Be sure to use sunscreen when outdoors to protect skin from the sun's damaging rays and slow down the development of premature aging. Remember to apply sunscreen every day, even when it's overcast, and reapply regularly if you'll be in the water or active and sweaty. · For a natural sun-kissed glow without the harmful impact of the sun's rays, rely on a moisturizing selftanner lotion or spray.

In the Shower · Avoid long showers, especially with hot water, which dries out skin. Lukewarm water is best for preserving natural oils. For your face, a slightly cooler rinse can help close pores after cleansing, but avoid outright cold water, as it also can have a drying effect. · Use a moisture-rich body wash such as Softsoap Coconut Island Quench enriched with coconut oil. This

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moisturizing formula will leave skin feeling soft and smooth.

Use a loofah sponge in the shower to gently exfoliate dead skin. To prevent unnecessary exposure to bacteria that could irritate your skin, be sure to replace your loofah every month.

Spa-like Indulgence · Take a note from the pros and remove makeup, bacteria and dirt the natural way, with coconut oil or olive oil. Follow with a cleanser and moisturizer appropriate for your skin type for a fresh, well-hydrated face. · A gentle exfoliating body scrub lets you lightly exfoliate and renew your skin's surface, while helping retain natural moisture. You can find recipes online featuring household items such as sugar or salt, or keep it simple with a store-bought option such as Softsoap Body Butter Coconut Scrub with jojoba butter and crushed coconut extracts. The formula gently exfoliate skin's surface while helping retain natural moisture for soft, supple skin. · A body massage not only helps to ease tired muscles and relieve stress, but it will awaken your skin. Use a hand-held massager on your arms and legs to give your skin – and your spirits – a welcome boost.

For more skin care tips and information on creating a natural glow, visit www.SoftSoap.com.

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book REVIEWS

Summer Reading List

by R. Lee Gamble

S

ummer is right around the corner and with that comes great reading.

As you plan to spend time on the beach or sitting on your porch drinking lemonade, having a good book in your hand or on your tablet will add a finishing touch to a beautiful day. Here are a few recommendations to start off your summer reading season!

The Winter People – Jennifer McMahon I absolutely loved this book. Part supernatural thriller – part murder mystery The Winter People tells the story of Sara Harrison Shea, who in 1908 was found dead in the field behind her house, just months after the tragic death of her daughter, Gertie. Residents of West Hall, Vermont say that Sara's ghost walks the streets after midnight, and some still leave offerings on their doorsteps to prevent her from coming inside. Ruthie Washburne has never put much stock in West Hall's rumors. But when she wakes up one morning to find her mother missing she begins to wonder if her mother's eccentricities have a deeper reason – especially when she finds a copy of Sara Harrison Shea's diary hidden beneath her mother's bedroom floor. This story entangles you in two mysteries, and believe me when I say, you will not put it down until all the questions you have are answered!

The Fault in Our Stars – John Green Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years; 17-year-old Hazel is dying. She spends her days watching reality television and she has no desire to get out and experience a life that she feels is slipping away from her. Enter Augustus Waters, another cancer kid she meets at a support group. Augustus walks into Hazel's life and with a smile and charming conversation turns her world upside down. Although listed as a Teen Novel in the bookstore, this beautiful story should be enjoyed by everyone. This novel touched me so very deeply. You find yourself loving both of these wonderful characters. The movie is coming out this summer but I recommend you read the book first!

Everybody's Got Something – Robin Roberts The beloved host of Good Morning America, Robin Roberts, has written a memoir where she shares stories about her life and lessons that she has learned with grace, heart and humor. Roberts recounts overcoming breast cancer only to be faced with a bone marrow transplant to fight off a rare blood disorder. She also writes about how she dealt with the passing of her mother, her return to TV, and how her friends and family showed her so much love and support. This is a definite must read for inspiration and just for that reminder that through the ups and downs we have to keep fighting and keep living. www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 35

MOVIE REVIEWS

Summer Movie Preview 2014 R. Lee Gamble www.filmdiva3.com

Warm winds are finally starting to blow, which is a sign that summer blockbuster movie season will soon sweep into the theaters. This is a preview of what's coming so you can get a jump on your movie viewing planning. These are a few of the films I promise you everyone will be talking about at the summer cookouts!

Godzilla (PG-13) In summer 2014, the world's most revered monster is reborn as Warner Bros.

Pictures and Legendary Pictures unleash the epic action adventure “Godzilla.”

From visionary new director Gareth Edwards (“Monsters”) comes a powerful story of human courage and reconciliation in the face of titanic forces of nature, when the awe-inspiring Godzilla rises to restore balance as humanity stands defenseless.

Blended (PG-13) Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore are back together in their third romantic comedy collaboration. After a disastrous blind date, single parents Lauren and Jim agree on only one thing: they never want to see each other again. But when they each sign up separately for a fabulous family vacation with their kids, they are all stuck sharing a suite at a luxurious African safari resort for a week in “Blended.”

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Tammy (R) Tammy (Melissa McCarthy) is having a bad day. She's totaled her clunker car, gotten fired from her thankless job at a greasy burger joint, and instead of finding comfort at home, finds her husband getting comfortable with the neighbor in her own house. It's time to take her boom box and book it. The bad news is she's broke and without wheels. The worse news is her grandma, Pearl (Susan Sarandon), is her only option – with a car, cash and an itch to see Niagara Falls. Not exactly the escape Tammy had in mind. But on the road, with grandma riding shot gun, it may be just what Tammy needs.

MOVIE REVIEWS

Jersey Boys (R) Clint Eastwood's big screen version of the Tony Award –winning musical tells the story of the four young men from the wrong side of the tracks in New Jersey who came together to form the iconic '60s rock group The Four Seasons. Their trials and triumphs are accompanied by the hit songs that influenced a generation, and are now being embraced by a new generation of fans through the stage musical.

Caption: (L-r) JOHN LLOYD YOUNG as Frankie Valli, ERICH BERGEN as Bob Gaudio, VINCENT PIAZZA as Tommy DeVito and MICHAEL LOMENDA as Nick Massi in Warner Bros. Pictures' musical "JERSEY BOYS, " a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Keith Bernstein

Edge of Tomorrow (PG-13) The epic action of “Edge of Tomorrow” unfolds in a near future in which an alien race has hit the Earth in an unrelenting assault, unbeatable by any military unit in the world. Major William Cage (Tom Cruise) is an officer who has never seen a day of combat when he is unceremoniously dropped into what amounts to a suicide mission. Killed within minutes, Cage now finds himself inexplicably thrown into a time loop – forcing him to live out the same brutal combat over and over, fighting and dying again…and again. But with each battle, Cage becomes able to engage the adversaries with increasing skill, alongside Special Forces warrior Rita Vrataski (Emily Blunt). And, as Cage and Rita take the fight to the aliens, each repeated encounter gets them one step closer to defeating the enemy.

Please mention Phenomenal Woman Magazine in the sales credit box when purchasing online and some proceeds help fund our magazine.

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FOOD

Sweet ‘n Savory Teriyaki Kabobs Makes 4 to 6 servings

(Family Features)

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

1 2 1

3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-1/2 to 2-inch cubes 18 medium shrimp, shelled and deveined (1/2 to 3/4 pound) 1/2 cup olive oil 1/2 cup prepared mango chutney, chopped if coarse 1/2 cup bottled teriyaki sauce 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 18 large bamboo or metal skewers (about 12 inches long) 1 medium yellow onion, cut into 1/2-inch wedges medium red onion, cut into 1/2-inch wedges firm, ripe mangos, peeled, pitted and cut into large cubes large green bell pepper, halved, trimmed, seeded and cubed Nonstick cooking spray, as needed

Place chicken and shrimp in shallow glass pan or large re-sealable plastic bag. For marinade, combine oil, chutney, teriyaki sauce and vinegar in small bowl with lid. Pour half of marinade mixture over chicken and shrimp. Cover or seal and marinate in refrigerator at least 3 hours, preferably overnight. Cover and refrigerate remaining marinade for basting.

If using bamboo skewers, soak in water at least l hour before using.

To prepare kabobs: Drain and discard marinade from meat. Thread chicken, yellow and red onion, mango, green pepper and shrimp alternately onto skewers. Be sure to keep enough room at one end of each skewer for a “handle.”

Ingredients 5 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and dices into 1 inch cubes 3 Tbs extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup light brown sugar 2 Tbs honey 2 tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsp ground gloves Directions Preheat oven to 370 degrees F. Spread the cubed sweet potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Drizzle the oil, cinnamon, cloves, sugar, and honey over the top of the potatoes. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until tender.

Remove from the oven and place potatoes to a serving dish.

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Coat grill grate with nonstick cooking spray. Place skewers over medium coals, and grill for 12 to 15 minutes or until meat is done and vegetables are tender. Brush often with reserved marinade and turn skewers until cooked through. If needed, use spatula to gently loosen skewers before turning as they may stick.

Arrange skewers on a platter and serve with Ginger Mango Dipping Sauce.

Ginger Mango Dipping Sauce Makes about 1 cup l mango, halved, pitted and scooped out of skin (about 1 cup) 1/4 cup frozen orange juice concentrate 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger root (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger) Combine ingredients in electric blender and puree until smooth.

Alternate preparations: Omit shrimp and use 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cutting into 36 cubes and using 2 per skewer.

Instead of grilling, place kabobs in broiler pan coated with nonstick cooking spray and broil 3 inches from heat about 10 to 15 minutes or until done, basting and turning as needed.

FOOD

Florida Grapefruit Tart with Cardamom Cream Makes: 4 to 6 servings 1 1/2 5 5 3/4 3 1/2 1

cups whole milk cardamom pods, crushed extra-large egg yolks, room temperature cup granulated sugar tablespoons cornstarch teaspoon orange blossom water tablespoon Florida grapefruit zest Pinch Kosher salt 1 tablespoon heavy cream 1 refrigerated pie crust 3 ruby red Florida grapefruit, peeled, white pith removed, cut into segments Maldon smoked salt, for sprinkling Place milk and cardamom pods in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring often, until small bubbles form around the circumference of the saucepan.

Turn off heat, cover and steep for 20 minutes.

Beat egg yolks and sugar together in a stand mixer at medium-high speed until pale yellow and very thick, about 5 minutes. Turn the speed down to low, then add the cornstarch.

Meanwhile, strain milk into a measuring cup. Stir in orange blossom water and grapefruit zest, along with a pinch of salt. Keeping the mixer on low, slowly pour in the milk mixture, beating until just combined. Transfer the milk mixture to a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it comes to a boil, 5 to 10 minutes. Switch to a whisk; whisk constantly until it has thickened to the texture of pudding. Turn heat off. Stir in heavy cream and then strain into a large bowl. Place plastic wrap on the actual surface of the pastry cream, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

Once pastry cream is chilled, pre-heat oven to 425° F. Place pie crust in 9 1/2-inch tart pan. Prick dough evenly with fork to keep it from puffing up in the oven. Bake for about 12 minutes or until the pie crust is just golden brown. Remove from oven and cool.

Just before serving, pour the pastry cream into the tart crust and even out.

Decorate with concentric circles of grapefruit segments. Sprinkle with smoked salt and serve immediately.

For individual tartlets: Divide pie crust among four 4 3/4-inch tart pans. Bake at 425°F. for about 10 minutes or just until golden brown.

Watermelon Lemonade Ingredients 3 lb watermelon (without rind), seeded and cut into chunks 3 or 4 medium lemons 2 medium limes 4 cups cold water 1 cup sugar Watermelon or lemon slices, if desired Directions 1 In blender, place watermelon.

Cover; blend on medium speed about 45 seconds or until smooth. Strain through fine mesh strainer into 2quart or larger pitcher.

2 Squeeze juice from lemons and limes; add to watermelon puree. Stir in cold water and sugar. Refrigerate 1 hour.

3 Stir before serving. Serve over ice.

Garnish with watermelon slice.

Source: bettycrocker.com

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