P.O.W.E.R. Magazine Fall 2022

Connie Craig-Carroll is a jewelry designer who displays her beautiful collection to millions of viewers on HSN. She has a curated lifestyle destination website, conniecraigcarroll.com. As a South erner who embraces Southern charm, Connie wants her friends and customers to feel pretty and radiate happi ness when they wear one of her designs. Her jewelry line is sophisticated and modern yet sensible- very much like Connie herself. She attended the University of Tennes see, majoring in broadcasting.

After college, a friend suggested Connie send a tape to HSN to apply to be an on air show host. She and 200 other HSN hopefuls were taking their chance at the job, when the talent director asked if anyone wanted to vol unteer to do the camera audition first in front of all the other applicants. Connie raised her hand and present ed a gemstone bracelet and a camcorder. They offered her the job and for 22 years, she was a beloved part of the HSN community. She has worked with celebri ties including Christie Brinkley, Raquel Welch, Serena Williams, Paula Abdul, Tori Spelling, and Molly Sims.

Connie CraigCarroll

JEWELRY DESIGNER

Connie has presented everything from cookware, elec tronics and home décor to beauty products and fashions, but her favorite thing to highlight on air was jewelry.

Connie’s passion for jewelry led her to the American Gemological Institute of America where she became an authority on gemstones and jewelry making. She trav eled to jewelry shows internationally and worked with some of the world’s best jewelry designers and brands, including Kendra Scott and Judith Ripka. In 2019, she left her career at HSN and designed her own line of genuine gemstone jewelry. Connie’s belief is that every one deserves to have unique, expensive looking pieces to express themselves and feel gorgeous. The gemstones and the texture of the settings feature organic details that are usually only seen in one-of-a-kind-pieces. There is nothing cookie cutter about her collection available on HSN or conniecraigcarroll.com.

Connie enjoys spending time with her teenage son, sports, and travel. She also contributes her time to her favorite charities.

What inspired you to create your own jewelry line?

I was inspired to create the Con nie Craig-Carroll line because as long as I can remember I have loved all things that sparkle. As a little girl I was very artistic, was crazy about color, and would draw and paint for hours. I have always adored all things that are beautiful so of course, that led me to being obsessed with jewelry. As a show host at HSN, I had the opportunity to work with some of the finest designers in the industry. There’s nothing like the feeling you have when you put on a piece of jewelry that calls your name. It makes you feel pretty. It makes you happy. For most of us, we wait for our birthday or Christmas to get a new jewelry piece as a gift. I was inspired to create this line so we could have the pieces in genuine gemstones that are awe-inspiring yet attainable. You don’t have to put your desire for a new piece of jewelry on hold.

How do you come up with innovative ideas for your jewelry designs?

When designing jewelry I am inspired by artistic elements every where around me, from nature to architecture. Color is always such an important part of everything I do. I take pictures of flowers, a tile at a restaurant, the sea and sky at sunset; inspiration is all around us. I sketch constantly. Each piece comes together when I create a design that is unique. Then, I choose a gem that has character or magnetism. I never want to create a design just for the sake of adding a new piece to the line. Each new style must have a story in the stone or in the unique design, and preferably both. My mind is constantly creating. I often wake up at night with ideas, so I have a sketch book in my bedroom. Why do you feel you were so successful as a host on HSN for more than 22 years?

I was successful because I am a

curious person. I have a natural curiosity to find out information and then I love to share it. I am a story teller and I enjoyed sharing the stories of products with viewers at home. I really think of the HSN viewers as friends. I feel like my personality connects with the people that watch HSN because we share a love for chatting and shopping. It’s really just a group of friends getting together, sharing conversation, and having a wonderful time. I am a people person and a talker, so hosting at HSN was a natural fit for me. What is one trait of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

I have the determination to learn new things very quickly. I became a small business owner for the first time when I created my own line. I am the only employee in my compa ny, so I learned to do everything. I learned the business aspects such as accounting and the creative side such as photography, copy writing, and social media. My determination to master new skills has helped tre mendously in this new venture as an entrepreneur. What advice would you give someone that wants to start their own jewelry line?

First, learn everything you can about all aspects of jewelry. It’s important to have a great knowledge of gemstones and the art of making jewelry. Second, come up with a concept of how you are going to

create a line that is different. If you are hoping to be a better version of a current line, it’s never going to work. Find your own point of difference. For example, there are currently and have always been a lot of gorgeous jewelry lines at HSN. I wanted to bring the customer genuine gem stone jewelry crafted by artisans that normally only work in fine jewelry. My pieces are natural gemstones set into brass and then bathed in 18 kt gold. Instead of having a few pieces of jewelry, with my line and it’s affordability, you can have an entire collection of great genuine gemstone pieces without breaking the bank.

After finding your point of differ ence, stay true to what you value and what your hopes and visions are for your line. Customers know when your heart is in the brand. Always give the customers more than they expect and never forget how lucky you are that they choose to shop with you. Find ways to celebrate your customers as often as you can. What does the word power mean to you?

Power comes from having strong convictions and beliefs and staying true to them even when it’s not easy. Power comes from working hard, never giving up on your goals, and pushing yourself to be the best you can be. The very best power is the kind we all possess which is the power to make a difference in the lives of others. Something as small as a kind word to a stranger or taking out the trash for an elderly neighbor could brighten someone’s day more than you know. On a larger scale, mentoring a person who can benefit from your experience and knowledge or donating time to your favorite philanthropy could impact someone for a lifetime and make your heart happy too. The ultimate power defi nitely comes from helping empower others to achieve their goals and have an enriched life.

conniecraigcarroll.com

Nkeki Obi-Melekwe

Singer

keki Obi-Melekwe is a star on the rise, having recent ly made her Broadway debut as Tina Turner in Tina - The Tina Turner Musical, after drawing rave reviews for her portrayal in the West End production. Additional theatre credits include originating roles in Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater’s Alice By Heart (MCC) and Jerry Mitchell’s Half Time (Paper Mill Playhouse). Nkeki has appeared on television in CBS’ “Bull” and Showtime’s “SMILF.” She can currently be heard as the new voice of Audi. Nkeki is a graduate of the University of Michigan. She auditioned for and was cast for the role of Tina three months after graduating from college.

N

When did you first realize you had a special gift for singing?

Growing up, I was not a good singer! I remember someone telling me in high school that I was the vocal weak link in a musical in which I was performing. However, I always loved to sing, since I was a young girl. I’ve always loved music and singers. So I would say that the realization of a special gift has yet to come. But I do love to sing and always have. How did it feel to be chosen for a lead in a Broadway show just a short time after graduating college?

It was completely overwhelming. I had a fun time auditioning because I really didn’t think I had a shot. I was honored simply to be seen and considered. When they chose me, I was flattered; I floated on a cloud for months after.

What was it like to meet Tina Turner and what questions did you ask her to help you “become” her in the show?

Meeting Tina was surreal. It makes the whole process of portraying an icon so much more tangible when you actually get to meet and spend time with them. I had equal parts of “I can’t believe I’m in her house” and “This is a really calming experience” at the same time. It was fascinating to be in her home and feel her energy on a personal level. That gave me more information than any questions I could have asked. How did you build up the stami na to perform at such high energy levels for two and a half hours on stage each night?

The build-up of stamina really happens when you do the show many times in succession. There’s really no other workout or training that is quite like the show itself.

It’s helpful to eat clean, take lots of walks, stay super hydrated, and do plenty of breathing exercises. What does the word power mean to you?

Power is being able to just be you. I know that sounds so cliché, but we live in a world that is trying to pull you in many directions, and I think it takes a lot of power to hold onto a sense of one’s self. There’s this saying that my favorite ceramics teacher (I do pottery) says when someone’s first learning how to throw clay on the wheel: “You are the fixed point of the ever-moving world.” I think that’s something that can be broad ened into everyday life. If you can manage to hold onto your sense of self, your values, and your culture, that’s power.

Photo: Pari Dukovic

AND FINANCIAL PLANNING

Resolving the Complexities of a Good Plan

By Candice Lira, CFP® American Portfolios

For many Americans, building wealth takes the form of securing an upwardly mobile career, diligently contributing the maximum to a 401k, and purchasing a home. But for many more Americans, building wealth is an afterthought. Contributions to a 401k plan are an arbitrary amount, often set at the level needed to ensure the maximum company match. The house may be weighed down by a large mortgage and home equity lines of credit, and their lifestyle buoyed by credit cards promising ‘living life to the fullest.’ Hard-working Americans are mean dering happily through life without a goal, and arrive at retirement worry ing and asking, “Do I have enough?” This is usually the point where they seek advice, but often it is too late to maneuver much. Here on Long Island, New York, we see our family and friends selling their homes and moving to a lower-cost area of the country in order to be able to enjoy and live within their retirement means. There is no real plan, other than just following what everyone else does.

Growing wealth, and achieving a successful life and retirement requires a plan and management of that plan to reach a goal. How much you will require in retirement, your life goals, as well as a chosen lifestyle all need gentle, continuous management. These will be different for each indi vidual. However, the path and tools to get there are the same for all. Let’s get started.

First, credit card companies are not your friend. In fact, view credit card debt as a symptom of living be yond your means and a clear gauge of whether you are accumulating wealth or accumulating debt. Use your credit card statement and bank ac count’s changing balance as a litmus test for building wealth. However,

debt is not inherently bad. Borrow ing to spend on an appreciating asset (such as a home) is an example of good debt. An amazing, expensive vacation financed by a credit card is an example of bad debt.

Next on the list are your essential monthly expenses as well as periodic annual expenses (repairs, property tax, etc.). Study your expenses and man age your cash flows to inform you of whether there is more money coming in or going out on an average monthly basis. The goal is to avoid negative cash flows, and to use the excess from positive cash flows to build future wealth and pay down debt.

You will need a canary in the coal mine as an alarm bell for potential problems. Unforeseen emergency expenses can often stop our savings cold and force taking on new debt to cover the emergency. We all know that emergencies are impossible to

avoid and predict, but we can prepare for them. Make sure that you have the correct insurance coverage for your home, auto, and business. Review that coverage periodically, to make sure that the cost and amount of coverage is appropriate. Also, maintain an emergency reserve fund equal to 3-6 months of your month ly expenses. If you are a business owner, you may or should have a personal emergency reserve as well as a business emergency reserve. The largest emergencies are likely covered by insurance. But for the rest, like a loss of employment, the emergency reserve will bridge you over to your new job while keeping your plan intact. When the emergency ends, rebuild your savings and reimburse the reserve fund back to its full value. Use your reserve fund as one of your cash flow management tools by setting a minimum and maximum funding level. When you exceed the maximum, it will be a trigger to remind you not to allow idle money to depreciate in a low-interest bank account for too long. The excess should have a pre-planned path to an investment account or debt paydown. Money should never be idle. Have a plan and know where and when excess cash flow should be moved.

When it comes to investing and financial planning in general, it is certainly appealing to go online, fill in an algorithm-controlled question naire, and invest in zero account fee and no-transaction-fee accounts or funds. These retail investment stores are good, except that the individual investor will eventually ruin them selves without continued advice and adjustment to the plan. There are too many examples of conservative investors faithfully following only the advice of Reddit forums, TV financial show ‘talking heads,’ or worse, a tip from a well-meaning neighbor. Income tax, state and local laws, estate planning, and fast-mov ing markets are complicated and

are changing faster than ever before. Seek help and the ongoing counsel of a trusted financial planner. Find one who will work with your accountant and attorney to form a sort of board of directors for your wealth-building plans. Building wealth and a retire ment plan is a long-term endeavor, which can be made better with the correct team of advisors.

Consider the way you move for ward now, and the importance, value, and timeliness of professional advice. Your own chosen profession or business is and should be what you know best. It is hard enough to keep current on the moving issues in your own discipline, let alone others. The world of financial planning is more complicated than simply choosing the right mutual fund. There are so many constantly moving parts to any one financial or retirement plan that it spans multiple professions and disciplines. Your financial planner must confer with your accountant and attorney (and vice versa) not just to create a plan, but for the contin ued management of that plan for its lifetime, to ensure that it will be suc cessful in attaining financial security for yourself, your loved ones, and for what might be generations to come.

Candice is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional with American Portfolios Advisors, with five years’ experience in the financial planning industry. Located in Floral Park, NY, Candice works with individuals, families, and businesses to understand their long-term needs and assets, and to create and manage plans to reach desired goals. Candice is also an active member of the Financial Planning Association- Long Island chapter, as well as the Nassau County Estate Planning Council. To continue the discussion, contact Candice at clira@americanportfolios.com, (516) 492-3090 or (800) 814-4242.

Registered Representative who offers securities through American Portfolios Financial Services, Inc. (APFS) Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through American Portfolios Advisors, Inc. (APA) an SEC Registered Investment Advisor

Julie Ann Emery

Actress Julie Ann Emery is best known for her breakout role in “Better Call Saul,” AMC’s highly buzzed-about pre quel to “Breaking Bad” in the role of Betsy Kettleman, a woman full of unearned outrage and righteous indignation, who steadfastly refuses to admit any wrongdoing by her or her family. Julie Ann reprised the role in the fan-favorite internet short “No Picnic” and in the “Better Call Saul/American Greed” crossover event, leading up to an incredible Kettleman reunion surprising fans in the final season of the series. Next up, she stars opposite Vera Farmiga and Cherry Jones in “Five Days at Memorial,” Apple TV+’s limited series from Oscar winner John Ridley, Carlton Cuse, and ABC Signature. Written by Ridley and

Cuse, based on the acclaimed nonfic tion book by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Sheri Fink, “Five Days at Memorial” chronicles the first five days in a New Orleans hospital after Hurricane Katrina made landfall. When the floodwaters rose, the power failed and the heat climbed, and exhausted caregivers were forced to make life-and-death decisions that haunted them for years to come. Julie Ann plays Diane Robichaux, an assistant administrator for LifeCare, who finds herself deeply involved in the events following the hurricane.

In 2019, Julie Ann starred opposite George Clooney and Christopher Abbott in the critical ly-acclaimed Hulu mini-series “Catch-22.” She plays Marion Scheisskopf, who’s married to Clooney’s character, Sche isskopf, but is having an affair with Abbott’s char

Actress

acter, Yossarian. Julie Ann also was praised for her brilliant work as Lara Featherstone, in AMC’s “Preacher.” One of the Grail’s best operatives, Featherstone uses disguises to deceive her target and has the ability to change her appearance in mere seconds. The comic book-based series was developed for television by Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, and Sam Catlin. Following “Preacher,” Julie Ann also played FBI agent Sylvia Reece in the sixth and seventh seasons of Amazon’s “Bosch.”

Julie Ann made her big screen debut in the hit romantic comedy “Hitch,” alongside Will Smith, Eva Mendes, and Kevin James, and went on to star as Holly in the hit indie-comedy “History of Future Folk” as well as “Gifted” with Chris Evans and Octavia Spencer. She starred in the Netflix film “Absolute Dominion” written and directed by Lexi Alexander.

Julie Ann grew up in rural Ten nessee and attended theater school at Webster Conservatory in St. Louis, where she was awarded the Marsha Mason scholarship, and met her fu ture husband, Broadway actor Kevin Earley. Following college, she began working on theater stages across the country garnering critical praise and a Chicago Jeff Award Nomination for her portrayal of Burlesque star Gypsy Rose Lee in the Marriott Lincolnshire Theater’s production of Gypsy. Julie Ann is a football fan, sci-fi geek, and a softball enthusiast.

As a child growing up in rural Ten nessee, what inspired you to become an actress?

I grew up on top of the Cumber land Plateau in Tennessee. The only theatre for about 100 miles back then was in my hometown. The Cum berland County Playhouse got an educational arts grant through The National Endowment for the Arts. As part of that grant, they provided someone on their staff to teach drama at the high school. She heard me sing at a choir concert and recruited me for our school plays. She then took me to my first auditions at the Play house. Her name is Mel Michel and she changed my life forever. Bless our teachers. They deserve our respect, gratitude, and support. Do you think your character Betsy Kettleman on “Better Call Saul” was the precursor to the “Karen” phenomenon?

Although I know some people balk at labels, I think “Karens” always ex isted, we just hadn’t yet named them or had their behavior displayed on social media yet. That being said, I do think Peter Gould, Vince Gilligan, and the BCS writers were ahead of

something coming in the zeitgeist. This unearned entitlement that is so prevalent now, was not quite so visible yet. Looking back, I feel like Betsy Kettleman should have been a warning for us. As an actor, climbing inside Betsy’s head with this group of artists has been thrilling. You have played some very complicated characters over the years. How do you research and prepare for these difficult roles?

All actors work differently. I like to go to my character, climb inside their mind, and “step into their shoes” as my Grandpa used to say. And I love complexity and traits in opposition to each other. I love nothing more than the challenge of playing someone I don’t understand when I first read the script. I see that as my place in the world. If I can understand this character, perhaps an audience can understand themselves or someone in their lives a little bet ter after watching. What are we all doing here if not coming to a better understanding of each other and ourselves?

As a self-proclaimed “sci-fi geek,” if you could play any science fiction role what would it be?

I’d be captain of the Enterprise. Or Han Solo. No! Admiral Adama in Battlestar Galactica! The beauty of sci-fi is it feels like the possibilities are endless. What do you hope viewers take away from “Five Days at Memorial?”

We are going to continue to be challenged as a society by natural disasters, pandemics, and collective crises. They are becoming more frequent, not less. These are moments for us to pull together personally, institutionally, and governmentally; not moments to abandon each other. The people inside Memorial Hospi tal were abandoned by every level of institution and government that was supposed to step up and help them. Until we find the collective will to use

our wealth of resources to save and help folks in moments of disaster and crisis, we will continue to see them end in heartbreaking tragedy. I hope Five Days inspires that collective will to never let this happen again. If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?

Erase self-negativity as quickly as you can. The world is hard enough without piling on yourself. Find meditation sooner. Relax and trust yourself. Your path is yours alone; don’t try to walk someone else’s. What does the word power mean to you?

Power is the ability to change a moment. Anyone can rage and throw their weight around but intro duce kindness and compassion into any given moment and you change the very nature of it. I know our society sometimes sees kindness as some bizarre kind of weakness. It’s the opposite. Compassion in our current world is an act of rebellion. Introduce it into whatever situation you are in and watch it shift the very nature of the moment. That’s magic. That’s true power.

Photos:

is named one of People magazine’s highly-coveted 50 Most Beautiful. Actress Garcelle Beauvais is known for being the first black cast member of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.”

Garcelle Beauvais

our goals is important, but success is nothing without our health. As they say, if you haven’t got

you haven’t got anything.

Dolores

Breast Cancer

Candice

PRESIDENT AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Tonia DeCosimo

VICE PRESIDENT Nicole Crumb

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Syndi Reibman

SENIOR EDITOR

Ellen Gold

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Geri Shumer

MEDIA DIRECTOR

Jeremy Felber

WEB DESIGNER & IT

Chris Ziminski

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Cris Bell

CONTROLLER

Maureen Meagher

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Shari Brozinsky

Anna Rose Cameron

Denise Forte

Helene Kaye

Jenine Martino

Sari Meyer

Elyse Shulman

Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized/P.O.W.E.R. magazine is pub lished quarterly by TJA Publishing, LLC.

All biographical information and photographs submitted by members, as well as questions and answers may be altered as necessary to fit our format. While every effort has been made to ensure that information is correct, errors may occur.

There is no guarantee of accuracy, timeliness, and completeness. We are not responsible for other’s opinions or views as expressed herein. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine does not discriminate based upon race, religion, and political views. P.O.W.E.R. magazine does not assume any responsibility for unsolicited materials. Advertisements do not constitute an endorsement of the product or services by P.O.W.E.R. Magazine. Copyright 2022 by P.O.W.E.R. magazine. All rights reserved. Content may not be reprinted or reproduced without permission from P.O.W.E.R. magazine.

Summer days have come to an end and I hope everyone has allowed themselves some downtime to relax and rejuvenate. Now that fall is upon us, it is time to regroup and get back to our regular routine. Whether you are a wife, mom, daughter, sister, or all of these things, bal ancing your daily responsibilities with your career is a woman’s greatest challenge. The incredible women featured in the fall issue of P.O.W.E.R. all face similar obstacles but have managed to strike a delicate balance between work and home life. Our fall cover girl Garcelle Beauvais, along with Nkeki Obi-Melekwe, Carrie Preston, Julie Ann Emery, and Amber Dawn Orton each come from different backgrounds and have different family obligations, but all successfully juggle the work/home life challenge. They are a testament to the fact that women are capable of doing anything they set their minds to!

Achieving our goals is important, but success is nothing without our health. As they say, if you haven’t got your health, you haven’t got anything. October is here and I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer has touched almost all of us – my family included. My sister Jolene has battled this horrific illness twice and I personally understand the terrible effects it has on patients and their loved ones. One of our own past cover girls, Olivia Newton-John, was taken from us much too soon from this awful disease. In past issues I have featured some great organizations that support breast cancer patients and their families, and I would like to draw attention to them once again as they are important resources women can turn to for help and support.

World of Pink recognizes that most women don’t receive proper mental and physical care when it comes to how a breast cancer diagnosis affects a woman’s body image. This wonderful organization is boosting women’s confidence through the use of breast prostheses and beautiful supportive bras. They are helping women feel good about themselves, one fitting at a time. Recently, they have acquired a van to accommodate underserved women who do not have transportation. Now that World of Pink is mobile, they have been able to visit many more patients, hospitals, doctors, nursing homes, and coalitions, conducting fittings and delivering bras and prosthetics to women who could not receive them otherwise.

Another notable organization I support is The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation. This charity was founded in 2006 in honor of Nancy Block-Zenna, who was diagnosed at age 35 with triple negative breast cancer and passed away two and a half years later. In response to Nancy’s diagnosis, her close friends launched the TNBC Foundation to raise awareness and support research in the area of triple negative breast cancer. The foundation’s many services include a helpline, where patients can call and speak with oncology social workers specifically trained to address the needs of the triple negative breast cancer community, as well as a financial assistance program to help women with this disease afford transportation, child care, and other expenses associated with their treatment. The TNBC also hosts online discussion forums which offer a central place to go for support and information about the disease.

In this current issue, I highlight the Babylon Breast Cancer Society. This local New York nonprofit offers a wide variety of programs and services to educate and assist families in the Babylon Township on Long Island who are affected by breast cancer or any gynecological cancer. They offer help with support, transportation to/from medical appointments, prepared food, house cleaning, financial assistance and more.

You can find more information about the organizations I mentioned above by visiting their websites: www.aworldofpink.com www.tnbcfoundation.org www.babylonbreastcancer.org

In addition, every fall P.O.W.E.R. publishes a comprehensive guide that lists a multitude of resources that are available nationwide. If you have cancer and need help, or know someone who needs assistance, please check out the special two page cancer assistance spread in this issue. All of the organizations mentioned are reputable and are making dramatic impacts in the lives of so many.

P.O.W.E.R. was created to highlight women, share ideas, make connections, and achieve their career goals. We are also there to support our members in other ways as well. So, I dedicate this issue to those women who are bravely battling this awful disease, along with their families, friends and loved ones, and those that can proudly call themselves survivors. Working hard and having success can be a source of tremendous pride, but it is not everything. Let’s never forget that ultimately health is our wealth!

TONIA’S

Tonia DeCosimo

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Women

Dr. Tacoma R. Anderson is the CEO, owner, and founder of Fearfully & Wonderfully Made Foundation, a nonprofit which helps women who are victims of domestic violence. With over three years of experience, Dr. Anderson is re sponsible for overseeing the daily operations of the foundation and working with women who are undergoing domestic violence. Her vision is to inspire, encourage, and impact others positively in life.

As a survivor of domestic violence, Dr. An derson felt compelled to fulfill her vision of making a foundation to help others overcome domestic violence through education and support. The Fearfully & Wonderfully Made women’s support group began in Yokosuka, Japan, after the founder of Women Encour

Jann L. Harrison

Jann L. Harrison is the regional director of Medical Education for the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System. She has 44 years of experience as a nursing professional, with 27 years of expertise in continuing medical education as director of a multi-hospital state-accredited CME program, and over 12 years of expertise in graduate medical education including grant management and detailed financial reporting. Jann directs the operational, financial, and educational activities of the medical education department and has been at CHRISTUS Santa Rosa for 35 years. She earned her B.S.N. from Emory University in 1978 and an M.S.N. from The University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio in 1987. She began her career as a pediatric nurse in 1978,

Dr. Tacoma R. Anderson

CEO, Owner and Founder | Fearfully & Wonderfully Made Foundation

aging Women, Dr. Shonda D. Kirk, relocated with her family to California. Under the men torship of Dr. Kirk, Dr. Anderson was inspired to reach out to achieve her personal goals and was empowered to fulfill her life-long vision. One of the biggest challenges was finding resources and connections to help meet the need in the communities in the surrounding area. Having others to help with information

on grants and opportunities to get the word out has been vital. Dr. Anderson earned a Th.D., M.A., and B.A. in Christian Theol ogy from the International Miracle Institute, an M.B.A. in HR Man agement from the University of Phoenix, and a B.B.A. in Computer Information from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. www.tacomaanderson.com

Regional Director Medical Education

CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System

and held var ious bedside, leadership, and educational roles in her nursing career before entering the medical education field in 1995. Since then, Jann’s career has evolved into leadership of continuing, graduate, and undergrad uate medical education. Her special skills include HRSA CHGME grants and financial IRIS reports for medical residents, resulting in millions of dollars in funding for the hospital system.

Jann is part of the voluntary clinical faculty in the department of pediatrics

Cathy (CaDori) Marshall

with Baylor College of Medicine and belongs to the Texas Medical Association subcommittee on accreditation. She has published articles on the nursing career ladder and has multiple presentations at state-wide conferences on continuing medical education. She held various leadership positions on the Texas Alliance for CME Board for nine years including board president and received the 2010 Outstanding Achievement in CME Award. Jann enjoys yoga, swimming, reading, sewing, traveling, and spending time with her grandchildren.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

It means to achieve competence in achieving life’s goals through confidence, hard work, and determination. www.christushealth.org/for-providers/academics

Founder, Entrepreneur, Author | CaDori Helping Hands Inc., CaDori Brand, LLC, Dougie’s Kids, Inc.

Cathy Marshall was born in Birmingham, Alabama. The eldest girl of 13 children, she is a natural born leader. Known as CaDori, she coined the name as a combination of her name, her mother Doris, and her late son Dougie. CaDori loves helping others. She is the mother of five and is a registered nurse. She spends a tremendous amount of time giving back to her community. Before be coming a nurse, she was once homeless, jobless, and lived in a shelter. In 2017, she founded a nonprofit charity, CaDori Helping Hands, Inc. CaDori do nated baby supplies to young mothers and delivered cleaning and personal care items to families who lost everything during Hurricane Harvey. She also donated backpacks full of school supplies to children in a local shelter and fed over 100 people displaced by the hurricane at a hotel in Livingston, Texas.

For the past two years CaDori has fed the resi

dents at The Turning Point in Houston as well as the surrounding community during Thanksgiving. During the past four years, she has partnered with The Rose in Houston which is a breast health orga nization focusing on prevention and treatment, and paying for mammograms for women who can’t afford to pay. Currently, she is hoping to secure a place and open a group home for women who have been vic tims of domestic violence and help them gain their financial independence through job training. On January 27, 2021, CaDori was honored by Mayor Sylvester Turner for her philanthropic work with her very own day in the City of Houston, Texas. CaDori also founded Dougie’s Kids, Inc., named after her oldest son, Bobby Denerio Marshall Brown, known as “Dougie,” who passed away in 2010 in a motorcy cle accident.

Jenae M. Baines

Jenae M. Baines is a singer, songwriter, and CEO of JayybabiiMusic LLC. In 2020, she started the songwriting company and began recording and performing in North Carolina and Georgia. She has been writing since the age of seven and singing since she was four. She has sung in church choirs, school plays, the television show, “Glee,” and on stage with major artists. Jenae belongs to the Spinal Cord Injury Association of North Carolina, the Honors Society, and More Than Walking Inc. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

I’m a wheelchair user and I think my biggest challenge is proving I belong even if I don’t look like your average star. I accept that challenge and I will overcome the stereotypical image. Another challenge would be just trusting myself in the studio

Singer, Songwriter, CEO | JayybabiiMusic

and allowing myself to feel present in the moment. When you’re handling the business and the music side of things, you can really get stuck thinking of all the things you need to get done.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Women have to work harder than men and still get paid less. They don’t get the respect they truly deserve. Women don’t always get taken seriously and are acknowledged by our looks and not our brains or abilities. This is frustrating to say the least. We are constantly trying to prove we are capable. What does the word empowerment mean to you?

It means to uplift, to encourage, to nurture, to lead, to grow, and to find your inner strength. I want to empower young women and girls, mostly the “handi-capable,” so they know that they can be anything they want when they put their minds to it.

Kerrie L. Stouffer Marisela Rodriguez

Kerrie L. Stouffer is the owner of All Vehicle Registration Services, which provides interstate trucking registration and related services for the trucking and transportation industry. Kerrie is responsible for the overall operations and management of the company, overseeing client services, efficiency, and following the guidelines and regulations of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. She is an industry expert and is knowledge able about vehicle registrations, titles, obtaining permits, doing fuel and mile age taxes, and all information regarding single vehicle owners to large trucking company fleets. She and the company have numerous testimonials touting her

Rose M. Johnson

Rose M. Johnson is the owner of Rustic Rose Assisted Living, an assisted living facility with an eight-bed capacity. Rose oversees the operations, management, and staff. She earned a B.A. from Colorado Technical University, and a dual A.S. from the Georgia Military College. She re ceived leadership and service awards from the National Society of Col legiate Scholars. Previously, Rose worked at PharMerica Pharmacy and Keystone Place at Legacy Ridge Assisted and Independent Living Facility. Her passion and duty are to build stronger individu als, to help them become active citizens

Owner | All Vehicle Registration Services

expertise and helpfulness. With over 41 years of experience, Kerrie ensures the agency keeps up to date on all state and federal regulations.

The company partners with the De partment of Motor Vehicles through their Business Partner Associate pro gram, which enables them to process authorized type transactions directly in the office. They are able to issue registration cards, license plates, and stickers while customers wait. Kerrie has some college. She belongs to the N.A.T.S.A. and the California Truck ing Association. In her spare time she enjoys gardening, motorcycles, and swimming. allvehreg.com/index.html

Commercial Account Manager Barrood Agency, Inc.

Marisela Rodriguez is a commer cial account manager with Bar rood Agency, Inc. She has some college. Marsella specializes in com mercial insurance, working with small businesses, and startups. The Barrood Agency, Inc. is a full-service insurance, real estate and travel agency serving cen tral New Jersey. Marisela belongs to the C.P.I.A., P.I.A., and AIMS Society. In her spare time, she enjoys off-roading, walking, and biking. www.barrood.com

Owner | Rustic Rose Assisted Living

in society, and to help them pursue a healthy and happy lifestyle. Rose has created the Roses Foundation, which is dedicated to empowering single and vulnerable women and children and helping them find an improved livelihood that enhances their growth and development. She feels priv ileged to work with, and for, the residents, nurses, physi cians, nurse practitioners, social workers, hospice teams, and staff members. In her spare time, Rose likes to travel and spend time with family and friends. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

The love for the health care industry

started while growing up in Sierra Leone. I was fortunate to provide care for my grandmother when she was ill. As I continued living in Italy, I also cared for my mother, who’s my inspiration. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Challenges include the domestic abuse cycle, gender bias, sexism, lack of women in positions of power, economic inequal ity, access to equal opportunity, and piloting between career and motherhood. What does the word empowerment mean to you?

It means having power and control over your own life. It is also about sup porting someone so they can take control and responsibility for their own life. www.rusticroseassistedliving.com

Dr. Lodze Steckman

Dr. Lodze Steckman is a cosmetic surgeon and the owner of Jouvence Aesthetics and Wellness. Her services include liposuction, Brazilian butt lifts, fat transfer to the face, penis, and other parts, tummy tucks, labioplasty, O-shots, P-shots, Botox, fillers, buccal fat pad removal, CoolSculpting, facial rejuvenation, skin tightening, hyperhi drosis, and gynecomastia. She also offers wellness services with treatment for joint pain and back pain. Dr. Steckman earned an M.P.H. and an M.B.A. from Bene dictine University in 2015, and an M.D. degree from Haiti in 1987. She complet ed surgical training in Harlem Hospital and Long Island Jewish Hospital. She is trained in cardiothoracic surgery, and is Board Certified in Aesthetic Medicine and General Surgery. She earned a Champion

Karen E. West

for Humanity Award in 2014 from Herman dad and a Wom an’s History Month Award in 2005 and 2008 from Health and Hospitals Corporation. Dr. Steckman is a fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and the American College of Surgeons. She is a former member of the Workforce on Me dia Relations and Communication of the American Society of Thoracic Surgery.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I grew up in Haiti with no running water and a single mother who priori tized education. I studied cardiothoracic and cosmetic surgery in Israel, Paris, and the U.S.

What are some of the biggest challeng es/obstacles you faced in your career?

During COVID-19 I had to close my brand-new practice during the pandemic. What do you feel are some of the big gest challenges that women face today?

As a woman of color in an industry dominated by men, the biggest challenge I see is the feeling that acceptance implies certain physical standards defined by soci ety. Women are relieved to meet a woman doctor who sets realistic expectations. www.jouvence-ny.com

K

aren E. West previously served as a principal and fund controller with Vanguard Investment Co. Currently retired, Karen spent over 40 years in the fi nancial industry. She served on the board of directors and has extensive knowledge of mutual funds, fiscal compli ance, IRA’s, ETS’s, 401K, and financial investments. She received an A.A. from Goldey-Bea com College and is the chairwoman and chair of investments for the Epworth United Methodist Church. Karen is also an ordained deacon with the United Church of Christ. During her career,

she was the first female vice president of Vanguard and received both a Quality Award and the Vanguard Award of Excellence. She was featured in a book, “The Vanguard Experiment.” Karen enjoys church activities. How did you get started in your field/industry?

When money market mutual funds were coming into existence, I was offered a job with the Wellington Management Company. When Jack Bogle decided to start his own mutual fund company, he asked me to join him at his Vanguard Group, and I did.

Veronica M. Peterson

Veronica M. Peterson is CEO of Mastering the Job Searches, a business that provides clients with comprehensive services as they navigate the job market. These services include searching employment websites for appropriate postings, resume/cover letter writing, and interview coaching. After obtaining her B.A., Veronica held various positions that honed her expertise as a hiring manager who reviewed hundreds of resumes and conducted countless in terviews. These positions included: assis tant director of admitting at Hospital for Special Surgery; assistant principal at Til den High School; and founding principal of Brooklyn Academy of Science and the Environment (NYC DOE school). As a member of the National Resume Writers Association, she participates in con

tinuing education to remain abreast of the latest trends in resume writing. Veronica’s client base is nationwide. She has served clients in Arizona, Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island via Zoom. She writes for all industries and specializes in new gradu ates and individuals with gaps in resumes. Throughout her career, Veronica has won the following awards: Black Caucus CSA Legendary School Leader, 2018; City Council Citation, 2018; NYS Certifi cate of Merit, 2018; and NYS Assembly Citation, 2018. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I have served in various positions in

What are some of the biggest challeng es/obstacles you faced in your career?

Even a penny error in the price could be very expensive. I designed a control system where it was almost impossible to allow an error which Vanguard sold to other companies.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Most senior positions are held by men. Women are judged as too emotional. What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Power means giving people the power to make their own decisions until they prove they are not able to do that successfully, instead of deciding they are not capable with little or no evidence of that fact.

CEO | Mastering The Job Searches

which the role of hiring manager was a component of my duties. After retire ment, I joined the National Resume Writers Association to hone my skills and start ed my own resume writing business.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

My biggest hurdle was implementing my business plans. I had to develop a concept that would provide every service a job seeker would need. That concept had to be then communi cated on an easy-to-navigate website. www.masteringthejobsearches.com

Owner | Jouvence Aesthetics and Wellness

Principal and Fund Controller, Retired | Vanguard Investment Co.

Dr. Pam Gumbs

Dr. Pam Gumbs owner and CEO of United Pharmacy, which is a pharmacy provid ing personalized pharmaceu tical services in conjunction with patients’ full medical history for over 20 years in Berkeley, California. Dr. Pam has been in the industry for 40 years, and is currently responsible for operations including hiring, inventory, and custom er relations. She provides consultation services on all medications, specializing in asthma and respiratory disorders. She also conducts medication therapy manage ment services for all patients.

In addition to running the pharmacy, Dr. Pam is the consultant pharmacist for the City of Berkeley, president of the Al ameda County Pharmacists Association,

Amanda Madsen

Amanda Madsen is the director of finance and marketing for Gla cier Tek, LLC, a company which designs and produces high-tech cooling products that help defend the user from heat stress in extreme environments. With over 20 years’ experience, Amanda is responsible for overseeing the daily financial operations, company strategy, leading marketing efforts, and the social media team. She is experienced in corporate finance, accounting, and economics. Amanda earned a B.S. in Finance and a B.S. in

past president of the American Society of Consultant Pharma cists- California Chapter, mem ber of Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International and the Federation of International Pharmacists. Dr. Pam provides community service for Alameda County regarding substance abuse and youth education.

Dr. Pam obtained a Pharm.D. from the University of California at San Francisco School of Pharmacy in 1975 and completed a Geriatrics Residency at the University of California at San Francisco Geriatric In stitute. In her spare time she enjoys golf, reading, writing, sewing, museums, and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. What are some of the biggest challeng es/obstacles you faced in your career?

The world tends to pick upon the intellectual human beings. As a black woman of color, the world appears to pick upon me twice as much for that reason alone.

What does empowerment mean to you?

MonthWOMEN OF

I often liken the world of pharmacy to the term “cutless surgery.” Whom does the community patient

come to regarding the correction of a physical or psychological occurrence but the pharmacist, who through their knowledge of clinical pharmacy can offer the proper referral or medication to correct these things without actually entering the amazing human body?

Finance and Marketing Director | Glacier Tek,

Economics from the Universi ty of Nebraska at Lincoln. She enjoys running, reading, and travel. How did you get started in your field/industry?

Working on contract con sulting finance teams early on helped focus my passion for business finance. I have had some incredible mentors who have been mainstays in my network. I am a valuable resource due to my years, skills, and experience. What are some of the biggest challeng es/obstacles you faced in your career?

The presence of multiple levels of

Dr. Maureen E. Marshall-Jeffers

After more than 30 years of teaching, Dr. Maureen Marshall-Jeffers retired from the New York City Department of Education in 2015. She taught elementary and middle school and had various responsibilities includ ing teaching, mentoring, and serving on school committees. Dr. Marshall-Jeffers is a lifelong educator and administrator. She began her educational career in Trinidad/ Tobago teaching early childhood. She migrated to St. Croix, US Virgin Island where she met and married Edme, and had two sons. Dr. Marshall-Jeffers studied piano music, both theory and practical, which trained her to be very focused and disciplined. She strongly believes that children should be exposed to various dis

ciplines in the arts including instrumental music, singing, dance, and drama, as it helps them to be socially well-rounded. Dr. Mar shall-Jeffers received a B.S. in Education from CUNY Medgar Evers College, grad uating in three years. In her senior year, she participated in a protest for daycare and equality for women students at the college, which resulted in victory. She has a M.Ed. in Elementary/Special Needs from Long Island University, Brooklyn campus, and an Ed.D. in Education.

Dr. Marshall-Jeffers belongs to the N.E.A. She is an entrepreneur and an

intelligence in every department, every company, everywhere can be challenging. All are acceptable. Growth is constant and happiness changes. I just alter my focus, develop my role, and try new things to stay engaged. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

All people face the challenge of continuing to take care of themselves at the risk of disappointing others. It’s important to stay strong and know you and your mind matter. It’s difficult to be overlooked as a proper team lead/mem ber. Keeping sharp and connected helps one prevail.

glaciertek.com avid philanthropist. With an inquisitive appetite for learning about international cultures including their basic lifestyle, culinary food, music, religion, and education, she attributes her passion for travel to her high school years studying world his tory. She has traveled extensively to most Caribbean countries, Italy, Belgium, and throughout Europe. Dr. Marshall-Jeffers visited her parent’s birthplace, Grenada, and reunit ed with her aunt, who celebrated her 100th birthday in 2022. Her birthplace, Trinidad/Tobago, was the next port of call where she united with her siblings and their offspring.

Janis

Janis and Carly Spindel

Janis Spindel founded Janis Spindel Serious Matchmaking Inc. in 1993. She created the service after she had matched fourteen different couples, all of whom ended up getting married within a year. Currently, Janis and her daughter, Carly Spindel, are a relentless moth er-daughter matchmaking duo that takes a fresh approach to the dating industry. They are headquartered in New York City, but have clients all over the world, and are very selective with who they choose to work with. Consistently recognized by the press for their success rate, Janis and Carly cater to well-educated, upscale, successful professional singles. They are a team with a proven success record whose only goal is to ensure their clients find love, marriage, and happiness.

Unlike most matchmaking services, the Spindel’s clients are men – serious and commitment-minded men. Women are part of The Love Club, which is a private membership-only club, exclusively for women. Inclusion in The Love Club gives women the opportunity to have a chance to be matched with Janis Spindel Serious Matchmaking Inc.’s clients.

Icons in the matchmaking industry, Janis and Carly are responsible for 5,088 combined marriages to date and lots of babies. They have over 30 years’ of com bined experience and have been featured in over 100 specials worldwide on love, dating, and relationships including “Dr. Phil,” the “Today Show,” “60 Minutes,” CNN, “The O’Reilly Factor,” and many others. Janis has written two books. Her first book, “Get Serious About Getting Married: 365 Proven Ways to Find Love in Less Than a Year,” was a New York Times Best Seller in 2006. Her second book, “How to Date Men: Dating Secrets from America’s Top Matchmaker” was released in 2007.

“Fall In Love With Serious Matchmaking Service”

Janis Spindel:

Why do you think true love is so hard to find?

Love is extremely hard to find because you must be in the right place at the right time in order to meet someone. You must be emotionally available and in a good place yourself. It is extremely important to love yourself before you are going to be out there with the idea of loving someone else. We do the vetting for our men clients, so that is huge. Women lie about their age and their weight and men lie about their age and their height, so that is not a great way to start off. In most major cosmopolitan cities, statistics show that there are many more women than there are men, so it is very difficult for people to meet each other. Being pro-active is a great way to start your journey. How is your matchmaking service different from all the other dating and matchmaking services available today?

Our fees separate the men from the boys and the women from the girls. We deal with serious commitment-minded men and women that are actually looking for a relationship that leads towards marriage. We are matchmakers, not a dating service.

Tell us the most challenging part of your job as a matchmaker?

It’s all about having to be extremely honest. We deal with people’s emotions, which is not easy. We love what we do and take it very seriously.

What benefits do your clients receive from your being a mother/ daughter team?

Two heads are better than one. We’re also from different generations,

Photo: Mike McGregor Photography

so that plays a big part in the picture.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is an aphrodisiac in my mind. It’s empow ering to be able to do what you want to do when you want to do it. I have always been an entrepreneur and to me that’s power. I get things done!

Carly Spindel:

Why do you think true love is so hard to find?

A lot of women think they’re ready and emo tionally available, but they aren’t. They’re too busy or they’re dating more than one man at a time and not focusing. The men who come to us know what they’re looking for and are emotionally and physically ready. They have time and they’re ready to put in the effort.

How is your matchmaking service different from all the other dating and matchmaking available today?

Our matchmaking service does the vetting and interviewing for men. We interview, vet, and screen the women with our unique ways to make sure they are who they say they are.

Tell us the most challenging part of your job as a matchmaker?

Encouraging women to prioritize dating when they have busy social calendars and work calendars is something in which we specialize. What benefits do your clients receive from being a mother/daughter team?

There are so many. Two heads are better than one. We have different techniques and methods to best serve our clients. We have so much fun helping them find love.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power means doing it all; being a boss in every as pect of my life - as a matchmaker, a wife, and a mom. janisspindelmatchmaker.com

Melissa D. Gordon

Melissa D. Gordon is a host with Red Carpet TV, an on-air personality with WFDU the Love Love Radio Show, a producer of On The Red Carpet with the Melissa D. Gordon Show, and CEO of On The Red Carpet Skincare. Melissa received a B.A. in Commu nications from Pine Manor College. She is experienced in radio, TV, red carpet hosting, entertainment, marketing, and sales. She creates advertisements, marketing sales plans, programming, and branding products. Melissa served as the original Trim Spa spokesmodel before the well-known Anna Nicole Smith, acting in infomercials and being featured in print ads from 1999 - 2002.

In addition to her media roles, Melissa was an extra in the movie “Boomerang,” performing in a party scene with Robin Givens. She is known as a Barbara Eden look-a-like. She has been hosting red carpet events since 2014 and is a wellness coach for Optavia. Melissa is a survivor of verbal, mental, and physical abuse, and as such, promotes self-love, positive affirmations, self-help, therapy, exercise, and medi tation. She thoroughly enjoys being a radio personality with Fairleigh Dickinson University’s radio station, WFDU 89.1 FM. The station plays eclectic and retro music from the 60’s through 80’s.

Melissa will be promoting and participating in the 2023 Oscar’s Red Carpet event and the Roger Neal Oscar party, which includes interviewing and modeling. She is con nected with country radio and the Academy of Country Music, contributing to various banquet dinners in Nashville, Tennessee, and related events. Since 2014, Melissa has been a host for the advocacy group, VH1 Save The Music Founda tion, which raises awareness regarding keeping music classes in schools and promoting music education. She has hosted public service announcements for the Make-A-Wish Foun dation charity in New York City, and she volunteers with the American Heart Association promoting exercise and healthy living. Melissa is very concerned with animal welfare, arts and culture, children’s safety, civil rights, social action, disaster and humanitarian relief, the environment, health, human rights, poverty alleviation, and social activism. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling and listening to

Denise Cagan

Denise Cagan started her first compa ny while still working as a quality assurance manager at Coca-Cola. After a year of doing both, she moved on to becoming a full-time business owner at DiCi Services. She grew DiCi for ten years, selling it in 2011. At that time, Denise established a second and third company. Today, only one of these remains, which is her current business, DCA Virtual Busi ness Support. DCA Virtual provides support for growing businesses for their administra tive and creative needs. They are dedicated to helping small business owners attain growth and exceed their goals. As the host of Nurture Small Busi ness podcast, Denise brings important business topics to the forefront for other entre preneurs.

Denise received a B.S. in Quality Systems Development

How did you go from a high schooldropout and single mom to owning a highly successful business?

My sheer determination to have a better life than what was handed to me made me successful. I started a business while I was working full-time in quality assurance in manufacturing. That business did okay while it was a side gig. One day, I decided to reach out to the engineering department to see what I needed to do to move into that department. Soon after, I was called aside by HR and given a community college catalog and told to go back to school. Mind you, I already had a B.S. degree. I felt like their reaction was neither supportive nor forward thinking. Shortly after, I decided to go full-time with my side hustle. That was my first business which I

from James Madison University. She is responsible for the overall operations, provides a variety of virtual business ser vices to businesses, and promotes the sustainability of hybrid and remote business models. Denise’s personal story is inspiring. She went from being a high school drop-out to a college graduate. She is also the first sibling out of 12 children in her family to complete col lege. She accomplished all of this as a single parent and Girl Scout leader while working both full-time and part-time jobs. Denise’s story illustrates that adversity is never an indicator of future success or failure. In her spare time, she enjoys her family, granddaugh ter, and is a dog-lover.

sold in 2011. What are the benefits of using virtual assistants rather than in-house employees?

Some of the benefits include not paying certain payroll taxes and the flexibility to match seasonality. With companies like mine, you get an account manager that helps maintain continuity and a team structure that creates a bench should you need to switch virtual assistants. That also means there is no need for you to spend time and resources hiring. Tell us about the most challenging assignment you have had to tackle for an employer?

We had a client who was with us for about six years until they out grew us. When they first hired us, they began experiencing tremen

dous growth. We documented their procedures, made suggestions on technology and systems that would help them stay organized during this time, and became extremely flexible with meeting their scheduling needs. The biggest accomplishment with this client was helping to identify areas where there was lag in their sales process and reducing the time to process an agreement from 12 days to three. That was a huge win for us and the client.

What does the word power mean to you?

To me, power means responsibil ity. Being a business owner puts me in a position where I feel compelled to do what is right for my team and my clients.

Tracy Sinclair

Casting Director | Bravo’s “Below Deck”

Tracy Sinclair has spent her entire life in the entertainment industry. She was born a dancer and danced professionally for over 20 years. She danced at Disneyland in numerous parades before moving to Los Angeles and worked for a well-known celebrity choreographer for five years. She then became a dance agent at a top Hollywood agency. After taking a break from the industry and having her second daughter, Tracy moved back to Studio City and started working in the casting industry. She quickly learned and found a gift in finding hidden gems in people and making them feel comfortable.

Tracy has worked on huge primetime network shows, game shows, and reality shows on NBC, CBS, FOX, ABC, TLC, HISTORY, and Bravo. She has been the casting director for charter guests on Bravo’s top show “Below Deck,” “Below Deck Sailing,” “Below Deck Med,” and “Below Deck Down Under” for over seven years. Tracy has to find that small percentage of successful people who are not private, don’t mind cameras, and want to be guests on the show. She has two daughters, one that works in casting also. Tracy loves finding amazing people for all the shows she works on, and she has no plans on ever leaving the entertainment industry again. She is an Acad emy member as a casting director and “Below Deck” has been nominated multiple times for an Emmy for Best Reality Show. She is an avid supporter of St. Jude’s Hospital and donates monthly. Tracy is also in the process of help ing the homeless in Los Angeles. She is in the middle of buying a tiny home in a development that will provide shelter, food, and medical care to people and families on the street. In her spare time she plays tennis and bike rides with her 12 year old, and enjoys shopping with her older daughter.

What made you decide to change your career from being a dancer to a casting director?

I became a mom of two amazing girls, and I loved dancing at Disneyland, but being a profession al dancer was not providing the income that was needed. I replied to a Craigslist ad about eight years ago looking for an assistant in casting. I had no idea what that world entailed, but I was intrigued, so I sent my resume in and they brought me in for an interview. I quickly moved my way up to casting producer/director then I was brought onto “Below Deck.” I am going into my 21st season with the franchise.

How do you know when you have found the right person for a role?

Honestly, I just know the minute they say “Hello” on the phone or Zoom. I can close my eyes and know. It’s the energy in their voice. Some people are quiet and not energetic, others have a special energy and excitement when they talk. Those are the people we want on TV. They’re the people you want to watch and like. They have a light in their eyes, and they are likable. It always depends on the show. For gameshows, I need big energy, happy people, who love to smile and who are loud and fun. For other shows they might want more serious people, so it really depends on what show I am casting. What show did you find the most difficult to cast?

“Below Deck” is difficult to cast because I have to find successful people who don’t mind being on camera. Most successful people that are not in the entertainment field are very private, so it’s a very small percentage of people who have the money to charter a yacht, don’t mind the cameras, and be with a group of eight people who feel the same way. They also need to have good energy, be authentic, and high maintenance. These are all very hard things to find in eight people.

Do you ever get to go on the yachts used in “Below Deck?”

I have not been on the yacht yet. As a single mom, I work remotely, so normally when they are filming, I am casting the next season. I don’t travel much because I don’t want to leave my youngest daughter. However, the executives have told me that whenever I want to fly out for a season to work on location I can. I have been waiting for a loca tion that I want to visit and I’m actually going to be going to Italy to work on the show for the first time this September. I am very excited. What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is meeting all the great guests and then seeing them on the show. Everyone always emails me afterwards saying they had an amazing time. I am a fan of the show and I watch it every Monday, so I love to see the guests that I have found on the show. The show also just got nominated for an Emmy, and that is very exciting. I am blessed to be able to work on not only a show I watch and love, but it is Bravo’s #1 Emmy nominated show. What does the word power mean to you?

Power means knowing that you have control of your life to a certain extent. I have been a single mom and struggled a lot, and I never lost sight of my ultimate goal which is being a good mom and having a career that I excel at and love- which were always top priorities for me. I worked hard to get where I am, and I am so blessed and thankful that “Below Deck” has kept me employed. I love what I do. I get to talk to so many different people every day. It gives me the power to be a better mom. Power is a combination of strength, faith, determi nation, love, and knowledge. I have the power to make my life the best it can be. As I grow older, I realize its only me that has that power to control my destiny, no one else.

Woman

Dr. Mary J. Gallant

Rowan University; Sociology Faculty

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

My mentor at the University of Missouri was Dr. Robert W. Haben stein. He was associated with the sociology of the family and qualitative sociology. My undergraduate work led on to a master’s degree sponsored by a Killam fellowship in the area of family, kinship, and community in the North Atlantic. His own training at the Uni versity of Chicago connected me to his colleague, Dr. Gregory Prentiss Stone and, after Dr. Stone’s death, Dr. Joseph

Dr. Mary J. Gallant has been an associate professor of sociology at Rowan University since 1992. Her area of specialization in her teaching is classical social theory, a course in the core of the sociology major throughout her tenure at Rowan along with Senior Seminars in Sociology and College of Humanity and Social Sciences (CHSS). Her research for her dissertation focused on the network structures of students in medical school and how it had the potential to strongly support socialization to the medical profession. Interested in destructive contexts and the self, her next major research was on the Holocaust and surviving extremity, 1933-1945, in hiding, rescue, resistance, the ghettos and concentration camps of WWII and the Holocaust. From 2007-2012, she served as chair of the Sociology Department and then continued as chair of the combined Sociology and Anthropology Department from 2013-2015. Dr. Gallant earned her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Minnesota in 1985.

The Holocaust was a turning point in the lives of millions of European Jews, and, Post-WWII and beyond, it vitalized new research on trauma, human rights research and interna tional law, war crimes trials after WWII, the IMT (London) and NMT (Nuremberg and Tokyo), as well as social policy and politics surrounding genocide intervention. Presently Dr. Gallant is working on a book chapter on WWII, collective memory and the Holocaust influencing military ethics and education. She published her first book in this area, “Coming of Age in the Holocaust: The Last Survivors Remember” (2002) and is preparing a new edition of this work. Her journal articles and book chapters associated with the study of the Holocaust at international conferences in Germany and Britain focused on rescue and resistance. In each of these works she is highlighting interaction strategies and self-processes associated with surviving destruction of the self during extremity.

Dr. Gallant’s second area of research is related to the pro fessions using social network analysis. This research emphasis emerged out of her dissertation on medical school socialization. In 2013, she published a second book, “Friendship Networks in Medical School: A Network Analytic Approach to the Study of Social Solidarity” at the invitation of a German publisher specializing in dissertation research. She is working on publish ing an article on the role of informal relationships and social support and medical student success.

J. Galaskiewicz became my dissertation advisor.

What are some of the biggest challeng es/obstacles you faced in your career?

Throughout my career I have been aware that women in academia are up against a different pattern of irrational ities than men are in handling various forms of institutional discrimination and how this affects interaction im portant to success. Doing research on this in several articles I presented and published helped me gain insight into how as a society and interpersonally we

deal with systemic inequality. Gender scripts that guide our lives in many areas still need to be fine-tuned to make career paths smoother. In the worst of times, finding surprising alliances were as important as self-discipline and critical self-examination in gaining the higher ground I sought.

Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you.

Optimism. Miracles happen. Help them materialize.

academics.rowan.edu/chss/departments/ sociology/facultystaff/marygallant.html

Gulf Coast Quality Management Systems

Dr. Terry Anderson

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I began my career in Europe in 1973 when I started negotiations and consulting with foreign countries. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Dr. Terry M. Anderson is an international consultant and the president of Gulf Coast Quality Management Systems, which is an international business consulting group based in Pensaco la, Florida. The company provides cyber security, DoD contracts, ISO certifications, auditing, and business development services. Dr. Anderson is also the founder and president of Sports Venue Marketing. With over 40 years of experience, she specializes in leadership, branding, marketing, public speaking, and international business consulting. She earned a Ph.D. in International Business from the University of Munich. Dr. Anderson was inducted into the American Sports Legends in 2001. She is a retired LPGA touring professional. She is also a craft beer brewer and has won various competitions and gold medals for her brews and recipes. Dr. Anderson supports the Battered Women and Abused Chil dren charity, and Kid’s House, based in Pensacola, Florida. She donates any winnings from beer competi tions to Kid’s House. She enjoys reading, craft beer, and painting.

Knowing different languages is key. Although I admit that speaking five different languages is still a challenge. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Distinction

It is a challenge to get an education in the correct field that launch es their career. Many women enter fields that are becoming obsolete. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I have four dogs. They are all unconditional fur babies. All are rescues- two Scott’s American Bulldogs, one Mastiff and a miniature Teddy Bear Golden Doodle. They all are comforting and some of their antics would make anyone escape the day and bring a smile. What advice has helped you get to the next level?

One thing I was taught at a very young age was- don’t forget where you came from, nothing in life comes free. It takes hard work. Get all the knowledge you can and don’t just talk about what you can do. Prove it by action. What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

I love politic science and history. The book on my nightstand is “American Marxism,” by Mark Levine. With everything going on in the world today, it has been interesting reading about things I learned in college. The second book on my nightstand is “The Journey: How to Live by Faith in an Uncertain World,” by Billy Graham. God will always be in my life.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I would tell myself to listen more to the wisdom of my elders. Sometimes the greatest learning comes from a story told by an elder person. We often tend to skip or forget the story. My mentors were my parents. They were both very successful people and I always won der how I would ever make it to their level in life. What I have found out as I have taken the journey myself, is not to brag about things. Prove yourself.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means being able to speak proper English and read at higher levels.

Woman

Patricia L. Blake

LAPD

Patricia L. Blake joined the Los Angeles Police Depart mment (LAPD) in May of 1983. Her career as a sworn LAPD officer spanned almost 34 years. Patricia was promoted through the ranks and held the positions of acting and assistant detective commanding officer, pa trol watch commander, and acting patrol commanding officer. She was part of a leadership team at the Foothill Division that focused on crime analysis, developing crime strategies, and implementing cut ting edge predictive policing.

Upon retirement, Patricia con tinued as an active reserve officer as the officer in charge of a unique mounted volunteer cavalry unit, the Valley Community Cavalry Rough Riders (VCCRR). This

cavalry unit was deployed in local parks, trails, and business malls throughout the city. The unit’s mission includes public outreach, crime prevention, education, mounted color guard for parades, evacuation, and search and rescue efforts. The unit enhances good will and fosters a partnership between police and the local com munity.

Patricia earned a B.A. from CSUN, an M.A. in Organizational Leadership from the University of Phoenix, and she completed the West Point Leadership Course with the LAPD in 2003. She was an affiliate of the Los Angeles Women Police Officer and Associ ates and the California Peace Offi cers Association. Patricia became one of two of the first female field

patrol field training officers at the Rampart Division. She was also the first female senior lead officer at the same division in 1989. She received the Officer of the Year award at Rampart, and earned a Meritorious Unit Citiation at the Wilshire Division as the officer in charge of a hand chosen special problems unit. In her spare time, Patricia enjoys church activities, racquetball, horseback riding, and jogging. She participated over ten times in the annual interna tional law enforcement 120-mile Baker-to-Vegas team relay run. Recently, Patricia wrote a factual book documenting her career and real life police work with the LAPD entitled “Touched by the Hand of God in the City of Angels.”

Author | Acting Patrol Commanding Officer, Retired

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I enjoy horse riding, jogging, racquetball, walking my dogs on the trails, and reading a book.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

I believe that you should seek out excellence through con tinual improvement. I took advantage of all the opportunities given through the department including training courses to develop my leadership and mentoring skills. Getting a formal college higher education helps. Always try various challeng ing work assignments.

What book is on your bedside table right now and why:

I am currently reading “With All Due Respect – Defending America with Grit and Grace,” by Nikki R. Haley, former United States Ambassador to the United Nations. It is all about the concepts of professionalism, leadership, integrity, and inner strength. She is a true leader with integrity, values, and she is a successful career woman with a family. I find her inspiring.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I would tell myself to surround myself with positive trusted family and friends, and to be more confident and self-assured in myself. Recognize and develop mentors for guidance, and

www.warriorsandheroes.com

The author, Patricia Lynn Blake, joined the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in May of 1983, with a career which spanned over 33 years. She is presently an LAPD active reserve police officer.

Join Blake as she portrays the human emotional side of police work with personal accounts of intense life and death field incidents. Live the LAPD motto, “To Protect and to Serve.” Set up perimeters, contain, chase, and apprehend the suspect. Live the calling to “get the bad guys.”

Personally glimpse the grief and emotional impact of tragic incidents no person should have to see, forever imprinted in memory no matter how hard you try to forget. Ride “shotgun” as you respond Code Three in a black-andwhite police vehicle to “shots fired” calls, “officer needs help” radio broad casts, tense vehicle pursuits, and dangerous combative suspects. Be ready for an emotional and unique ride with field patrol officers.

Blake provides a powerful testimony of a traumatic event in her youth wherein she experienced a miracle that impacted and changed the rest of her life. Make no mistake, this is an account of good versus evil.

For Blake and the majority of police officers, law enforcement is a true call ing to protect the innocent and the vulnerable and to make a difference. This writing is dedicated to all the first responders and protectors on the front line, blessed by God, who sends guardian angels to watch over, shield, and protect them. These courageous warriors put on their kevlar vests, badges, and uniforms and risk their lives on a daily basis to protect total strangers.

God also calls our first responders and military warriors in the form of guardian angels to shield and protect those in their moments of desperate need. Evil comes in many shapes and forms to deceive and defeat God’s eternal love. Believe in and recognize both daily small miracles as well as the rare life-changing miracles.

When God calls upon us asking “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” The majority of our first responder warriors respond without hesita tion—“SEND ME!”

By God’s design, there are no coincidences.

Lifetime

OF Distinction

Director of Programs Sight Surgery International

Baillie Russell Brown

Baillie Russell Brown is the director of pro grams for Sight Surgery International, a nonprofit charitable organization that orga nizes and implements sight-restoring surgery clinics throughout the developing world, serving populations where blindness from cataracts is a scourge. With over 40 years’ experience, Baillie serves as an ophthalmic surgical assistant. She is responsible for recruiting, coordinating, and deploying teams of eye surgeons in over 60 countries. She has convinced medical equipment and pharmaceutical companies to donate hundreds of millions of dol lars’ worth of essential supplies.

Previously, Baillie served as a licensed optician and staff member for Direct Relief International. She has also volunteered for a number of communi ty organizations including the Braille Institute and

numerous health fairs. Baillie has personally partic ipated in over 70 clinics in over 40 countries includ ing Zimbabwe, Borneo, Papua New Guinea, Brazil, Guyana, Mongolia, and Vietnam. A recipient of many honors, Baillie was listed in Who’s Who in Top Executive Management in 1996, received the Soroptimist Woman of Distinction for Interna tional Goodwill and Understanding in 1988, and named Outstanding Young Assembly in 1985. She received her B.S. in Philosophy from St. Martins University, has a Certificate in Ophthalmology and a Certificate in Operating Room Protocol. Baillie is affiliated with the California Association of Oph thalmology. In her spare time, she enjoys riding horses, playing piano, and exercising on the elliptical machine.

www.sightsurgeryinternational.com.

If you are interested in being interviewed to get your story on social media, consider an in-person interview, podcast, press release, video, or possibly a Times Square Reuters billboard display through P.O.W.E.R. We can help get you the additional exposure you deserve to take your career to the next level.

P.O.W.E.R. TALK TV

Set up your in-per son interview through P.O.W.E.R. Talk TV. Allow others the opportunity to visually get to know you and your business.

TIMES SQUARE PHOTO RECOGNITION

P.O.W.E.R. TALK RADIO

Our podcasts are pre-recorded audio interviews which give our members the opportunity to con vey a message or story. This is a great way to increase your expo sure and market reach.

Your photo, name, and company name are displayed on the famous Reuters billboard in Times Square, NYC. Times Square is considered the busiest area in Manhattan with approximately 330,000 people passing through daily, many of them tourists. Over 460,000 pedestri ans walk through Times Square on its busiest days. It is also the hub of the Broadway Theater District and the world’s entertainment in dustry. It is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing an estimated 50 million visitors annually. This is a great way to attract attention and high visibility for yourself and your company.

PRESS RELEASE

A press release is a written public

business

market reach. This newsworthy communication is distributed to print, radio, broadcast and social media sites. A press release can include your photo or company logo as well as a hyperlink to your company website so readers can instantly learn who you are and what your company offers.

Katrina

Makeup Artist

by Katrina

atrina D’Onofrio is a professional makeup artist. She graduat ed from Long Island Nail and Skin Care Institute of New York in 2003. She then began her journey as a freelance makeup artist catering to brides and local professionals, working with all age groups. Katrina specializes in creating the appearance of flawless skin and captivating eyes. Her work became recognized by some of the industry leaders in PR which led to her career in the celebrity world. Among others, Katrina’s work has been featured in Us Weekly, People Magazine, New York Fashion Week, Bravo, MTV and CBS.

Katrina is passionate about making her clients look and feel their very best. Her training and experience in the industry have made her an expert in creating a flawless look for any special day. She is well known for her attention to detail. With each client, she creates a customized look that will bring out their best features. Her warm and inviting nature creates an environment that keeps her clients coming back.

Fall Makeup Tips

Natural looking skin. We’re looking at less full coverage, layering, and more of a natural looking skin finish. Try mixing your favorite moisturizer with your favorite foundation to give you that beautiful, tinted, moisturizer effect.

Dewy skin is back. Moisturized skin, cream blush, liquid highlighters, and cream bronzers keep the skin looking radiant and glowing. Use a moisturizing setting spray to set your look and keep your skin hydrated all day.

Change up your blush routine. Try using burnt blush tones this fall like terracotta and peach instead of rose or mauve blush tones.

Metallic shimmery eyelids like bronze and warm tones are the perfect complement to any fall look.

Lisa

Mulligan

Lisa M. Mulligan is a credentialing specialist with SoNE Healthcare.

With almost 17 years of experience, she ensures that healthcare providers have the required licenses, certifications, and skills needed to take care of their patients. She enables providers to be enrolled with insurance carriers so that when a provider sees a patient with that specific insurance carrier, the facility gets paid.

Lisa earned an A.S. and a Certification of Health Claims Specialist from Bran ford Hall (with honors). She began her career in a skilled nursing facility working directly with the providers and performed credentialing duties for Medicare and Medicaid. She then worked at Hartford HealthCare before gaining her position with SoNE Healthcare. Lisa is also in

sales at Soft Surrounding. She enjoys walking, hiking, scrap booking, card making, making t-shirts, family activities, reading, traveling, and wine tastings. Lisa is also a certified Laughing Yoga leader. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

Before I divorced my husband of 12 years, I was a stay-at-home mother. After my divorce, I needed to find a way to support myself and my family. I decided to go to Branford Hall Career Institute to obtain a certificate in Medical Coding. My first job after doing so was at a skilled nursing facility, and at that time I started doing credentialing for the providers. I am still learning and growing as a person. What are some of the biggest challeng es/obstacles you faced in your career?

Roxane Maliszewski

Roxane Maliszewski started learning classical guitar when it was bigger than she was. Her guitar performances consistently brought home the highest awards in competitions. Eventually she was told she should be teaching, not com peting. In high school, she was asked to help teach music theory at a local college. At the same time, her teaching skills and academic prowess lead her chemistry teacher to work with the school to adjust her schedule, so she could teach chemis try while the teacher was away. Roxane opened for Richie Haven on several oc casions when he performed in Louisville,

Kentucky. While in Cincin nati, she performed for over a decade at a recognized French restaurant, often singing in French or one of four other languages besides English. When Cincinnati celebrated its sister city Nancy, France in 1991, Roxane performed on TV for the second time, internationally.

Roxane’s singing gigs were usually a second job. She wanted to work with her hands and became a skilled tool and die/model maker. This gave her a place to apply her skill in mathematics daily. She was especially adept at building models or prototypes from pictures and engineering drawings,

Judy L. Cornelison

Judy L. Cornelison is the finance manager for the County of Burnett, Wisconsin, including the statutory duties of county auditor. With over 30 years of public sector accounting experi ence, she is responsible for the financial records of all activities conducted by the county. Judy ensures that financial transactions are properly recorded, that appropriate internal controls are in place, and that records are open and accessible.

Judy manages the county’s annual budget process and is responsible for preparing and presenting information to the independent audit firm and to state and federal authorities overseeing county programs. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and a variety of crafts.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

My first accounting class in high school led me into accounting and finance. Experience in the private sector made me realize that public service would provide the challenge and fulfillment I sought. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Month

Changing locations and businesses which I have worked for has been very difficult- this is true for any individual making a career move. Every organiza tion is different, and every management team is new when making these moves. It is a matter of adjusting to the change and finding the right fit for yourself.

sonehealthcare.com

which complimented her degrees in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. One of her more interesting jobs was building models/prototypes from movie stills for some of the first toys that came out after the first “Star Wars” mov ie. Roxane often helped companies to understand and meet ISO9000 require ments and improve processes. She has retired from tool and die, but continues to sing, teach, and has started an online business.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I aced the mathematical and mechan ical aptitude test for the tool and die apprenticeship program at GE, which was the highest score in their history.

Finance Manager | County of Burnett

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

In my experience in a con servative rural community, the majority of governing board members are still older white men. I often feel that my knowledge is not as respected as it would be if I were male. What does the word empow erment mean to you?

Working for a smaller county delayed my career advancement, as only a limited number of financial positions exist in the organization.

Empowerment is an acknowledge ment of the value I possess as a person and as a professional. This acknowledge ment builds confidence, inspires perfor mance, and pushes for excellence.

Singer, Classical Guitarist, Tool and Die Maker Specialist

Winnie Hurston

Winnie Hurston is employed by Carriage Services Inc. (NYSE: CSV) as the senior executive assistant and special projects manager to the co-founder, chairman, and CEO. Carriage Services is an operator and consolidator of funeral homes/ cemeteries and merchandise, with 230 businesses in 29 states. Winnie is responsible for daily operations and international events. She is an integral part of Carriage’s high performance culture framework. She is the CEO’s liaison to the board, executive team, managing partners, and external business leaders. Winnie works with the board, and executive team to achieve benchmark goals, i.e.: serving on committees, the annual report, branding,

Senior Executive Assistant | Carriage Services

COVID-19, and construc tion. She collaboratively develops concepts, strategies, materials, and policies.

Winnie hosted/facilitated and managed the annual Being The Best Pinnacle and Good To Great conferences and various board/investor relations events, including events held at the New York Stock Exchange. She served as construc tion project manager, migration man ager, and interior designer for the office build-out project. Winnie mentors/su pervises personnel and the office services department. She advocated for special needs children with their ISD ARD pro cess, was a political campaign volunteer, served as voter registrar, electoral judge, precinct chair, and played league sports.

Tammy W. Owens

Tammy W. Owens is the director of Group Medicare and Medicaid with Humana Pharmacy Solutions. With over 18 years’ experience, Tammy is a strong facilitator and problem solver. She is responsible for implementing new accounts, overseeing daily operations, and building strong teams for the company. She is experienced in healthcare oper ations, compliance, risk, and auditing. Tammy is a strong influencer who has the ability to bring all parties together to ensure success. She has been a guest speaker at the RISE conference speaking about CMS audits, her area of expertise. Tammy earned a B.B.A. in Management and Economics from the University of

Kentucky. She will be receiving her M.B.A. from Strayer University this December. How did you get started in your field/industry?

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I was recruited by a consultant who suggested I consider changing industries for a fantastic opportunity. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Proving I could excel in my career without a college degree was difficult. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

A lack of senior leadership roles con tinues to be a challenge women face in today’s workforce. What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means achieving seemingly unattainable goals, which ultimately enables me to pay it forward and help others.

www.carriageservices.com

Director of Group Medicare and Medicaid Humana Pharmacy Solutions

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

It was com pletely by chance. I was working for a credit card company as an auditor and the compa ny closed. I was looking for a new job and Humana had openings for auditors. That started my 18 year adventure in healthcare.

Dr. Fatima Tanni Lawson

Dr. Fatima Tanni Lawson is a principal with the Saint Paul Public School system. She earned an M.A. in Educational Administration and her Ph.D. in Educational Policy and Administration, both from the University of Minnesota. She also has an M.A. in Linguistics and a B.A. in French and Portuguese from the University of Ife of Nigeria. Dr. Lawson has over 30 years’ experience in the educational arena, having served as a teacher, administrative intern, assistant principal, and eventually becoming a principal. She is responsible for staff and faculty oversight, liaising with parents, community partnerships,

Challenges are knowing our worth, being recognized for our worth, and not being afraid to stand up and tell our sto ry that reflects our worth. I still believe women have a much more challenging time than men stating their accomplish ments. This is one of the reasons women are overlooked for senior leadership roles. What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Power means being able to chart my own course. It means having the freedom to make the decisions that I believe need to be made, and to see those decisions through to the end.

Principal | Highwood Hills Elementary School, Saint Paul Public Schools

and ensuring student success. She is well-versed in curric ulum, program design, and development. Dr. Lawson also serves as an adjunct professor teaching graduate level courses on educational leadership, administration, school finance, ESL methods, and language acquisition classes at local universities in the Twin Cities area. Her teaching philosophy centers around offering quality education that leads to critical thinking, while examining the world around us with honor, respect, and the dignity of individuals in conjunction with celebrating the diversity that every one brings to the table. She is a public

speaker, avid reader, and active member of the community. Dr. Lawson serves on numerous boards and organizations. She is the recipient of many awards, most recent being the Mandela-Washington Reciprocal Exchange Fellowship. What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Societal conditions and man-made problems cause a class system that is governed by rights and privileges. When something that is supposed to be a right is limited to a very few, and access is based on some conditions, those rights become privileges. When they become privileges, they are limited by barriers. Unlocking those barriers then gives rise to what I call empowerment.

Art of Self-Healing”

By Dolores Conroy, LCSW-R

An immediate reaction upon hearing a diagnosis of breast cancer creates thoughts of fear and dread. Of course, this is a natural response to bad news, but studies show that the emotions or feelings attached to them bring toxic elements into the body. When these feelings persist, the autoim mune system becomes weakened, limiting its ability to help in the healing process or the medically prescribed treatment.

We all know, including doctors, how a good men tal attitude assists people in overcoming their illness. Positive feelings and thoughts are of prime importance towards that end. One way to achieve this is through meditation, which is a tool that releases the power in your own mind to shut off the negative and turn on the positive. Once learned and practiced, problems become lighter, easier to handle, and feel as though they are over sooner.

Many people are not even aware they are having negative thoughts, so being aware of these thoughts is the first step. Once one is aware, a shift in attention to some thing that doesn’t require thinking follows. The breath is always available for making this shift and focusing on it will create a respite from negativity. The following simple mental exercise is a brief meditation that allows you to take control of your mind to create positive self-healing energy. This technique provides the additional benefits of bringing more oxygen in and releasing excess carbon dioxide out of the lungs. This is a natural tranquilizer for the body.

Bring all your attention to your breath as you also imagine your entire body surrounded by a radiant healing light. Begin to inhale this light slowly and deeply. Focus on feeling it as it goes up the nostril, down the throat and expands the lungs. Hold it in the lungs for several seconds feeling the expan sion and the light as you hold it there. Then very slowly and with control, begin to release, feeling the lungs collapse, the breath moving up into the throat and out of the nostrils. Feel the quiet in your mind. That is what you want. Take about four or five of these breaths, visualizing a healing taking place in your body and mind as the breath moves in and out. It doesn’t matter how you visual ize this.

Finally, to manifest the outcome you want, pretend the dread, fear, depression, or anxiety is over. Let your mind create the feeling of being free from stress, light, and care free. You need these feelings to act as the medicine that contributes to the strength of the autoimmune system and whatever treatment is being given. You are manifesting the best outcome.

While meditation in this article is applied to healing from breast cancer, I have found it to be much more than that. Meditation brings about a heightened con sciousness. It’s in this state of heightened consciousness that we become aware of how miraculous the connection is between body and mind and the innate power we have in all of us to utilize it to our advantage.

IN MEMORIAM

With a career spanning more than five decades, Olivia Newton-John was a vibrant, creative individual adored by fans around the globe. Born in Cambridge, England in 1948, Olivia moved to Melbourne, Australia with her family when she was five. Her first big break was winning a talent contest on the popular TV show, “Sing Sing Sing” which earned Olivia a trip to London. By the age of 15, she had formed an all-girls group called Sol 4 and in 1963, Olivia was appearing on local daytime TV shows and weekly pop music programs in Australia. When she eventually moved to London, she teamed up with her friend from Melbourne, Pat Carroll (now Pat Farrar), to create a double act, “Pat & Olivia.” The duo toured clubs throughout the UK and Europe. Olivia cut her first single for Decca Records in 1966, with a version of Jackie DeShannon’s “Till You Say You’ll Be Mine,” and in 1971, she record ed a cover of Bob Dylan’s “If Not For You” co-produced by Bruce Welch and fellow Aussie and friend, John Farrar.

In 1978, her co-starring role with John Travolta in “Grease” catapulted Olivia into super-stardom. The film’s best-selling soundtrack featured the duets “You’re the One That I Want” and “Summer Nights” with Travolta, as well as her mega-hit, “Hopelessly Devoted to You.” To date, “Grease” remains the most successful mov ie musical in history. Her other feature film credits include “Funny Things Happen Down Under,” “Tomorrow,” “Xanadu,” “Two of A Kind,” “It’s My Party,” “Sordid Lives,” “Score: A Hockey Musi cal,” and “A Few Best Men.”

Olivia was bestowed an O.B.E.

Newton-John

ACTRESS, SINGER, ENTERTAINER

(Order of The British Empire) by Queen Elizabeth in 1979 and was named the first Goodwill Ambassador to the United Nations Environment Programme. She served as the national spokesperson for the Children’s Health Environmental Coalition in 1991.

In the early 90’s, Olivia successfully overcame her first journey with breast cancer, which inspired her selfpenned and produced album, “Gaia.” As a breast cancer “thriver,” Olivia had become increasingly well-known and respected for talking openly about her personal journey with breast cancer and for promoting public awareness of the importance of early detection for more than 30 years. This led her to announce her partnership with Austin Health and the creation of the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre (ONJCWC) on the Austin Campus in her hometown of Melbourne, Australia. In April 2008, Olivia raised more than $2 million to find a new way to treat cancer and build the ONJCWC. After continuing the fundraising efforts and helping to raise nearly $200 million, the ONJCWC provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities for cancer treatment, education, training and research, including a wellness center for the mind, body, and spirit.

In 2006, Olivia received the AO (Officer of the Or der of Australia) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for her services to the entertainment industry as a singer and actor, and to the community through organizations supporting breast cancer treatment, education, training and research, and the environment. In 2010, she also received the “Lifetime Achievement Award,” presented by friend John Travolta at the G’Day L.A. Gala.

In 2017, Olivia revealed that her breast cancer had returned and metastasized to her sacrum. After another long battle, she passed away at the age of 73 at her home in Southern California, surrounded by family on August 8, 2022. We are saddened by the passing of the legendary actress, singer, entrepreneur, and entertainer. Olivia graced the cover of P.O.W.E.R. Magazine and shared her journey of suffering with cancer for 30 years. She will truly be missed and remembered. Rest in peace, Oliviayou will always be our Sandra Dee.

CANCER ASSISTANCE

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Komen Breast Care Helpline 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) www.komen.org

Provides information, general and financial assistance to women who meet eligibility criteria. American Cancer Society 800.227.2345 cancer.org

Funds and conducts research, shares expert information, supports patients, and spreads the word about prevention. Provides information regarding all aspects of cancer research.

Patient Advocate Foundation - National Underinsured Resource Directory 800-532-5274 www.patientadvocate.org

Find local, state and national resources for people who have insurance but may struggle to pay out-of-pocket costs of care. Offers financial assistance information, legal and advocacy help if an insurance claim is denied.

National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp

Provides access to clinical breast exams and mammograms (plus diagnostic testing if results are abnormal, and referrals to treatment if breast cancer is diagnosed) to women ages 40-64 who do not have health insurance or are under-insured. The Pink Fund 877.234.PINK (7465) www.pinkfund.org/get-help

Offers financial assistance for health insurance premiums. Provides 90-day non-medical cost-ofliving expenses to breast cancer patients in active treatment for breast cancer, so they can focus on healing, raising their families, and returning to the workplace.

Sisters Network Inc. 713.781.0255 | 866.781.1808 www.sistersnetworkinc.org/programs.html

Offers financial assistance for breast prosthesis, medical bras and compression arm sleeves. Committed to increasing local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African American community.

Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (U.S. Department of Labor) 1-866-4-USA-DOL (1-866-487-2365) www.dol.gov/

Provides information on federal laws requiring insurance coverage of breast reconstruction after mastectomy.

Red Door Community/ (Formerly Gilda’s Club NYC) 212-647-9700 reddoorcommunity.org

Red Door Community (formerly Gilda’s Club New York City) creates welcoming communities of free emotional and social support for everyone living with cancer – women, men, teens, children and their families. The program is an essential complement to cancer care, providing support groups, educational lectures, healthy lifestyle workshops and social activities.

Breast Cancer Freebies breastcancerfreebies.com

Offers information and links to receive free wigs, hats, makeup, house cleaning, transportation and other services and products. Amazing, and extremely helpful website with links to 20+ free services.

PRESCRIPTION DRUG ASSISTANCE

The Assistance Fund - Breast Cancer Copay Assistance Program (855) 730-5871 tafcares.org/program-listing/ Offers financial assistance for prescription drug co-payments. This website also offers assistance for a variety of diseases. Cancer Care – Co-payment Assistance Foundation 866-55-COPAY (866-552-6729) www.cancercarecopay.org

Offers health insurance co-payment assistance for chemotherapy and targeted therapy drugs. NeedyMeds.com (800) 503-6897 www.needymeds.org/pap

Offers information on drug company assistance programs. Patient Advocate Foundation – Co-Pay Relief Program 866-512-3861 www.copays.org

Offers financial assistance for prescription drug co-payments. Partnership for Prescription Assistance 888-4PPA-NOW (888-477-2669) www.pparx.org |medicineassistancetool.org

Offers low-cost and free prescription drug programs for those with limited income. Strings for a Cure www.stringsforacure.org info@StringsforaCURE.org

Offers gift cards to patients in 45 different states, medical grants, living expense grants, and educational scholarships.

TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE

American Cancer Society – Road to Recovery 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) www.cancer.org

Offers local transportation to and from cancer treatments.

Grind For Life 561-252-3939 www.grindforlife.org

Providing financial assistance to cancer patients and their families when traveling long distances to doctors and hospitals. Those who qualify may request assistance for travel and lodging expenses, meals, and personal needs. CancerCare – AVONCares 800-813-HOPE (800-813-4673) www.cancercare.org/financial/information

Offers financial assistance for transportation to and from cancer treatments.

Pink Link www.youngsurvival.org/directory/breast-can cer/pink-link

Pink Link offers support to young women affected by breast cancer including retreats. The site offers numerous helpful links. The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center 866-983-3222 www.nadtc.org

Promotes the availability and accessibility of transportation options for older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers.

Komen Treatment Assistance Program 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) www.komen.org

Offers financial assistance for transportation to and from cancer treatments.

*Many local churches will offer transportation assistance in medical matters.

LONG-DISTANCE TRANSPORTATION

Air Charity Network 877-621-7177 www.aircharitynetwork.org

Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. Corporate Angel Network 866-328-1313 www.corpangelnetwork.org

Uses empty seats on corporate planes to help cancer patients reach treatment centers. (Travel for caregivers is not covered.)

Lifeline Pilots 800-822-7972 www.lifelinepilots.org

Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers.

Mercy Medical Airlift 800-296-1217 www.mercymedical.org

Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers.

National Patient Travel Center 800-296-1217 www.patienttravel.org

Offers free or discounted air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers.

LODGING ASSISTANCE

American Cancer Society –Hope Lodge and Hotel Lodging 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) www.cancer.org/treatment/support-programsand-services/patient-lodging.html

Offers lodging for families during cancer treatment.

Healthcare Hospitality Network 800-542-9730 www.hhnetwork.org

Nationwide professional association of nearly 200 unique, nonprofit organizations that provide lodging and support services to patients, families and their loved ones who are receiving medical treatment far from their home communities.

Joe’s House 877-563-7468 www.joeshouse.org/Lodging.aspx

Find an online directory of free and discounted

CANCER ASSISTANCE

PHONE NUMBERS, WEBSITES, AND HELPFUL INFORMATION

lodging for cancer patients and their families. FINANCIAL SERVICES/ PERSONAL EXPENSE

ASSISTANCE

Low-cost and Free Mammograms

Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance companies cover the cost of mammograms.

National Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program

1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp/

Provides access to breast cancer screening to low-income, uninsured and underinsured women.

Planned Parenthood 1-800-230-PLAN www.plannedparenthood.org

Offers clinical breast exams and referrals for mammography (and any follow-up testing, such as breast ultrasound).

Counseling 800 813 HOPE (4673) or info@cancercare.org.

Oncology social workers are available to help you cope with the emotional challenges of breast cancer.

Healing Odyssey (949) 707-1710 connect@healingodyssey.net

Nonprofit organization providing support and educational programs for women cancer survivors and their support team.

RETREATS AND RECREATION

Casting for Recovery 888-553-3500 castingforrecovery.org

Offers free flyfishing weekends in 33 states for female breast cancer survivors.

Stowe Weekend of Hope 800-GO-STOWE (800-467-8693) www.stowehope.org

Provides a three-day gathering held each spring in the resort town of Stowe, Vermont, for both male and female cancer survivors and their families including free accommodations for first-time guests and most events are free. Activities include educational sessions with top doctors presenting current medical research in all areas of cancer treatments, workshops by cancer type, movement and exercise classes, a 3-mile run and more.

Little Pink Houses 336-213-4733 www.littlepink.org

Provides free week-long beach retreats for breast cancer patients and their immediate families in private homes in 14 locations around the U.S. Meals are served in a common area with other families. Activities include fishing, yoga and parasailing. Babysitting is provided so parents can have a date night.

Swim With the Dolphins 1-866-860-7946 www.dolphinsplus.com/dolphin-swimprograms/omas-dolphin-swim

Dolphins Plus in Key Largo, FL, offers a free swim with the dolphins, hands-on session for cancer patients and survivors. To make arrangements and get medical clearance forms to

participate, contact info@dolphinsplus.com. Do it For the Love Foundation 844-484-3561 www.doitforthelove.org

Wish-granting organization that brings people with life-threatening illnesses to live concerts for free to have a one-on-one experience with their favorite artists and enjoy the healing power of their music. If you have Stage IV breast cancer, contact them.

Helpline 877-6636

The Susan G. Komen Foundation offers a specialized breast care helpline.

American Cancer Society 800-227-2345 (24 hour hotline)

The ACS offers programs that help individuals, families, and friends cope with the treatment decisions and emotional challenges they face. Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation 877-880-TNBC (877-880-8622)

Assists and supports women with triplenegative breast cancer.

CLEANING

Cleaning For A Reason (877) 337-3348 cleaningforareason.org Email: info@cleaningforareason.org

Offers cleaning services for those undergoing treatment.

EARLY DETECTION

National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp/

The NBCCEDP funds all 50 states for early detection of breast cancer.

WIGS & HEAD COVERINGS/ PRODUCTS

American Cancer Society 1-800-ACS-2345 www.cancer.org

To receive a new free wig or donate new wigs with tags attached for those who cannot afford a wig. Reduced Price Wigs 1-800-850-9445 www.tlcdirect.org

For wigs at a reduced price, the America Cancer Society endorses www.tlcdirect.org. They offer a full array of wigs, headwear products, mastectomy products, cancer support jewelry and other goods. Heavenly Hats 920-362-2668 heavenlyhats.org | anthony@heavenlyhats.com

Offers free hats for people who are facing hair loss due to cancer and other medical conditions. Head Wraps and Scarves/Good Wishes Scarves (888) 778-5998 www.goodwishesscarves.org

Provides a scarf to anyone experiencing the thinning or loss of hair as a result of illness or treatment at no cost. Each scarf is a gift of hope that carries with it the support and good wishes of people who care and represents the strength and

dignity of those who wear it.

Totes

The Lydia Project 1-877-593-4212 | (706) 736-5467 www.thelydiaproject.org

Offers free totes for women going through any kind of cancer treatment. The totes come filled with an inspirational journal, lotion, and other items. For women who are interested, a year of ongoing support is available in which you can share prayer requests, and request notes, phone calls, and emails.

All4OneBreast Form Fund (508) 630-2242 cancer1source.org

The fund will help pay for prosthetics and other post-mastectomy garments for women with financial need.

Nordstrom Prosthesis Program 1.888.282.6060 shop.nordstrom.com/content/breastprosthesis-program

This program is offered free in the lingerie department of 116 full line Nordstrom stores in 29 states. Certified prosthesis fitters are specially trained to fit women for any type of intimate apparel following a mastectomy, lumpectomy or other reconstructive surgery. They will also sew pockets for breast forms into regular bras, camisoles and swimwear you’ve purchased at the store, free of charge.

NETWORKING/ GENERAL SUPPORT/ OTHER FORMS OF CANCER Cancer Hope Network 877-HOPENET (877-467-3538) www.cancerhopenetwork.org

Provides free one-on-one emotional support to adult cancer patients and their loved ones. Livestrong.org 855.220.7777 or 877.236.8820 livestrong.org

To make a donation call 1-844-GIVE 2 LS International organization that provides a variety of support services.

Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation 800-366-2223 (800-366-CCCF) candlelightersnyc.org | info@candlelightersnyc.org

Nonprofit organization that provides information, peer support, information regarding financial assistance and advocacy through publications and a network of local support groups.

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society 800-955-4572 www.lls.org

Offers information and financial aid to people who have leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, or multiple myeloma.

Veteran Administration 877-222-8387 (877-222-VETS) www.va.gov

Offers medical benefits, including cancer treatment at a VA Medical Cancer, to eligible veterans and their dependents.

Food For Thought

So many of our activities are based around food. We meet for brunch on weekends, go to fancy restaurants to celebrate life events, have Taco Tuesday’s during the week, try new recipes to stimu late our families’ appetites, and host weekend barbecues with friends to celebrate friendship and being together again. As we gingerly climb out of the pandemic pool and tip toe into living a more normal life, here’s food for thought. Eating healthier not only affects you now, but later in life as well. With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, here are some suggestions to eating your way to a healthier lifestyle and recommended foods that fight many forms of cancer.

Studies have shown that whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans have healthy properties that can help prevent cancer. Eating a variety of colorful plant foods, nuts, and seeds, provides natural dietary fiber, miner als, vitamins, and phytonutrients that your body needs. Phytonutrients are defined as: a substance found in certain plants which is believed to be beneficial to human health and help prevent various diseases. Thus, the more colorful foods

you eat, the greater the variety of nutrients you ingest.

Specific cancer-fighting foods to purchase are apples, berries, crucifer ous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, bok choy, and Brussels sprouts), carrots, fatty fish, walnuts, and beans/legumes. Cruciferous veg etables contain beneficial nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. They also contain sul foraphane, a plant compound with anticancer properties.

Eating white beans (navy, cannel lini, and kidney) helps you ingest cancer-fighting dietary fiber, flavo noids (plant chemicals responsible for the vivid colors of plants) and phyto chemicals. Tomatoes contain lyco pene, an antioxidant that also helps with cancer prevention. Limiting foods that are high in sugar, starch, and fat helps control your calorie in take and weight. While it isn’t always possible to stay away from fast food, try to limit the amount of food you eat that you have no control over in regard to ingredients and preparation.

In order to help prevent colon cancer, it is recommended that you limit your red meat (beef, pork, and lamb) intake to less than 18 ounc es per week. Additionally, avoid processed meats including sausage, bacon, salami, and ham. When

you do indulge, try to have lean cuts of meat. Keep in mind, you can sub stitute turkey and chicken in many recipes, especially when they call for ground meat.

In addition to sugar affecting your metabolism and weight, it also affects your brain. Aside from natural sugars occurring in fruit, having too much refined sugar, as in soft drinks, sweets, etc., can cause a lack of focus, mood crashes, high stress levels, memory impairment, personality changes, immune system suppres sion, and it is an addiction. Try to stay away from sugary drinks, snacks without any nutritional value, junk food, etc. It’s just as easy to grab an apple as a chocolate bar, but much more nutritious and far better for your health.

The phrase “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” is actually true. According to Healthline.com, eating one apple provides around 100 cal ories, 5 grams of fiber, 10% of your daily vitamin C, 6% of your daily copper, 5% of your daily potassium, 4% of your daily vitamin K, and around 5% of the daily vitamin E, B1 and B6. Apples are also a great source of polyphenols, which are an tioxidants, compounds that protect your cells from free radicals (harmful molecules that can add to the devel-

by Syndi Reibman

opment of chronic conditions such as cancer). Additionally, apples have other great health attributes. The soluble fiber contained in apple skin can help lower blood cholesterol lev els. Apples can lower blood pressure and provide a lower risk of stroke due to their containing both polyphenols and flavonoids. They also contribute to better gut health due to their pec tin acting as a prebiotic fiber. Needless to say, apples are a super healthy way to increase your body’s ability to fight a number of prevalent heart risks and help reduce your propensity towards developing cancer.

To further prevent cancer in many forms, it’s advised to not drink alcohol at all, whether it’s beer, liquor, wine, hard seltzers, etc. Alcohol has been linked to six different types of cancers. If you must drink, limit your intake to one drink a day at most. There are many non-alcoholic wines and beers available.

Berries are superfoods. They contain vitamins, dietary fiber, and minerals. Their antioxidant proper ties have many potential health ben efits. Blackberries have anthocyanin, which lowers biomarkers for colon cancer. Blueberries have anti-inflammatory effects that can prevent breast cancer. Among berries, blueberries, acai berries, cranberries, and rasp berries all have a dark-colored skin and contain phytochemicals that are proven to protect against numerous types of cancer.

Carrots contain high amounts of beta-carotene, which supports the immune system and may prevent breast, prostate, and stomach cancer. Fatty fish, including salmon, macker el, and anchovies, is rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamin B, potassi um, and omega-3 fatty acids. Eating freshwater fish at last once a week can lower the risk for colorectal cancer and adding fish oil after the age of 50 can lower the risk for prostate cancer.

According to the American Insti tute for Cancer Research, all nuts have properties which are cancer-pre venting. Walnuts in particular, contain a substance called pedunculagin, which the body metabolizes into urolithins (which are compounds that bind to estrogen receptors) and may play a role in preventing breast cancer. Legumes (peas, beans, lentils, and chickpeas) are high in fiber and often contain a high amount of pro tein. Eating a diet high in fiber can help lower a person’s risk of devel oping colorectal and breast cancer. While we aren’t suggesting you go all out vegetarian and eschew eating meat, many households follow a ‘Meatless Monday’ routine. With the availability of plant-based fake meat products available in most grocery stores as well as a variety of seasonal vegetables, it would be easy enough

to have a weekly meatless meal with other sources of protein.

If you have allergies to certain food types listed above, there are numer ous supplements and vitamins you can take instead. Before adding any type of new medication or supple ment, we do advise speaking to your primary care physician. Regardless of whether or not you change your eating habits to incorporate some of the suggested foods above, eating a balanced diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables, and good fats will benefit anyone’s health. Being aware of how much red meat, alcohol, processed meat, and sugar you eat is the first step towards being more aware of your nutritional intake. Swapping out snacks such as chips and sweets for fruits and vegetables is easy enough. Obviously, we all indulge from time to time. Whether it’s get ting tipsy at a party, eating junk food on a road trip or vacation, or having a prime steak at a fine restaurant, life is for living and no one is perfect. If you wish to live a longer, healthier, cancer-free life, we hope you will try and incorporate some of the suggest ed foods, exercise more, and enjoy every day to its fullest.

Theresa (Terry) Prag is the program manager for Lend A Helping Hand. Terry worked in the medical field for 30 years before being diagnosed with very aggressive Stage 3 Triple Nega tive Breast Cancer in November of 2012. She was introduced to the BBCC by a friend who explained that she could get help and support on the journey she was about to go through. The BBCC provided free house cleaning, prepared food, and helped financially with medical copayments. This triggered Terry’s inherent desire to give back and help others. She im mediately started volunteering when ever possible while going through 17

The Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition (BBCC) is a grass roots, nonprofit, volunteer organization dedicated to various breast and gynecological cancer concerns.

Theresa (Terry) Prag

Program Manager | Lend A Helping Hand, BBCC

months of chemotherapy, radiation treatments, and four major surgical procedures. Terry was offered a posi tion on the board as a paid employee of the BBCC in May of 2014, just af ter her last major reconstruction sur gery. She was given the opportunity to take over the premier program, Lend A Helping Hand, as a case pro gram manager, having experienced its benefits first-hand on her own journey, and couldn’t turn down the opportunity. Terry oversees all client intakes, services, and implemented the ongoing programs, Writing to Heal/Meditation, Restorative Yoga, and Reiki Healing Circle which are

Karen Kunkel

Karen Kunkel earned a B.A. in Marketing and an M.A. in Education. In 1998, she joined the Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition (BBCC) as a volunteer while a stay-at-home mom. Karen would have her children volunteer at community fairs alongside her self and assist in delivering BBCC brochures to doctors’ offices. Eventually she became a board member and a Lend a Helping Hand volun teer. Soon after, she was invited to be co-coordinator of this program. Karen has chaired many committees through her 24 years of volunteer

biweekly or monthly programs either in person or via Zoom. The number of women being diagnosed and those that the BBCC has helped has more than doubled over the eight years that Terry has managed the LAHH Program. She is passionate about giving back. She empowers clients by referring the BBCC’s free services as a hand-up, not a hand-out. Terry loves to help others by providing informa tion and resources for what they are about to go through, add some light to the dark, and change tears into a smile. This is shown by the timeless hours and effort she gives daily to those in need.

Volunteer President | Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition (BBCC)

ism with the BBCC including the Research and Scholarship Commit tees. In 2016, she became volunteer

president of the BBCC. She has since implemented an advisory board including a breast surgeon. Karen strongly believes in the mind, body, and soul connection along with traditional treatment for BBCC’s breast and gynecological cancer clients. Their ongoing programs include Reiki, meditation, and professionally guided exercise. She is very proud of the strides the BBCC has made over the years and the fact that the board is comprised significantly of indi viduals the BBCC has assisted either directly or indirectly over the years.

Volunteer Treasurer and Board Member |

Nicholas Radesca

N icholas Radesca joined BBCC in 2017, short ly after his wife passed away from metastatic breast cancer. Searching for a way to help others suffering from this terrible disease, he answered BBCC’s ad in Volunteer Match for office help. Im pressed with their mission, reputation, and personnel, Nick gratefully accepted BBCC president Karen’s invi tation to join the board. As a career accountant, C.P.A., and banker, he has been a strong addition to BBCC’s board and a perfect fit for the treasurer’s role.

The Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition (BBCC) is a grassroots non-profit serving your Babylon Community (Babylon Village, Amityville, Copiague, Deer Park, East Farmingdale, Lindenhurst, North Babylon, Oak Beach, West Babylon, West Gilgo, Wheatley Heights, Wyandanch) since 1993. Our signature program, Lend a Helping Hand provides support and services for women in active treatment for breast and/or gynecological cancer. Services include transportation to medical appointments and therapy, prepared food, housecleaning, financial assistance and more. Our goal is to remove some of the stress a woman faces while undergoing treatment for breast and/or gynecological cancer. The BBCC is located in Lindenhurst at 218 N. Wellwood Avenue, Suite #2. If you are currently in active treatment for breast and/or gynecological cancer, or would like to get involved with fundraising or becoming a volunteer, please give us a call. Our office phone number is 631-893-4110. We look forward to hearing from you.

Cancer does not take a break... we are here to help.

D

r. Kara Lynne Maldonado is founder and CEO of Real Bodies Period, a wellness company providing holistic weight loss management and trans formational coaching to restore the mind and body. She has written several eBooks on these topics and co-authored personal development books. Kara is a transformational speaker who suffered from chronic autoimmune diseases and is a cancer survivor. It is her mission to help others transform their life from painful to pain-free by sharing her own journey.

Kara’s desire is to help others know no boundaries. She is recognized for her tireless charitable work and received several awards. As a result of her philan thropy and humanitarian services, she received an honorary doctorate. She also received the 2022 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2022 Inter national She Inspires Me Award (SIMA), and the 2021 Humanitarian Award for her achievements of over 25 years of continued contributions to national nonprofit organizations supporting women’s health and safety globally.

Dr. Kara Lynne Maldonado

How did your life experiences lead you to your career?

Seven years ago, after being a suc cessful senior regional manager for multi-state residential and commer cial real estate development compa nies for nearly 25 years, I decided to leave the industry and open my own business.

I stayed in a toxic marriage for 17 years, enduring abuse. I blamed myself for his behavior and felt like a failure until I could not hide from the humility any longer. In addition to his drug abuse, emotional abuse, and spending the family finances, he fathered a child with another woman. I had enough sense to not let our nine year old daughter think that was okay, so I left.

I became very ill at this point as well and underwent chemotherapy. I started researching many different modalities to overcome my autoim mune disease’s debilitating effects. My daughter put me on a sea moss supplement for nutrients. Then we found the non-invasive benefits of cryotherapy treatments. It gave me relief from inflammation and joint/

Founder, CEO

Real Bodies Period

muscle pain through lymphatic drainage and by the removal of fat cells, which held toxins from all the medications I was prescribed. I have had excellent results from detoxing. I threw all my prescriptions away and have been drug-free for almost four years. I never returned for the third round of chemo. Why do you think weight loss/gain is so intertwined with self-image?

It is a learned behavior instilled in us when we are children and perpetuated by television, social media, and lack of self-worth coupled up with being in toxic relationships. As children we are told to be seen, not heard. We are told that men would not want us if we were overweight, too skinny, etc. The media depicts that being beautiful means you must look like a supermodel. This image makes us question how we show up in society every day. What makes cryotherapy a better alternative to traditional dieting?

It is a weight loss and management service that not only removes fat per manently, but through a noninvasive and personable approach that relieves

you of chronic pain, harmful toxins, and muscular injuries. Cryotherapy cleanses your body of potential toxins releasing them through your lym phatic system. Our slimming and toning treatments are tailored specifi cally to individual body types. Along with the treatments we provide organic, gluten free, vegan friendly products that help maximize body results and overall gut-health. What does the word power mean to you?

When I think of power, I think: Passion Over Wealth, Energy brings Rewards. Your power starts with passion. You can obtain wealth in many ways, but to have respect you must have good energy.

Amber Dawn Orton is a mother and accomplished fitness industry professional who is passionate about leading an authentically healthy lifestyle. She has a B.S. in Business with a focus on Finance and a B.S. in Eco nomics. Amber transitioned to full time personal training after beginning her bodybuilding career in 2010. She graced the cover of multiple national fitness magazines and competed at the national level in bikini bodybuilding. At that time she immersed herself into every fac et of the fitness industry. After extensive misguided nutrition and training advice throughout her competition preps, she was left with an unhealthy relationship with food and a damaged endocrine system. Her real passion developed through helping herself and others reach their fitness goals in a healthy and sus tainable way. Through proper nutrition and balanced exercise she began healing and restoring her body to a healthy state. It was then she realized there was a true strategy to balance in reaching your health and fitness goals that could and would last a lifetime. This is when she created her first business, ADOFitness. Amber learned a lot along the way and started teaching her methods of true sustainable dieting to other coaches who had a similar past, passion, and philosophy, eventually creating a team with similar views. The current team shares the idea that true health starts at the cellular level and advocates long term sustainable dieting methods. Amber is now the mother of two children, owns a large ranch in Texas with her soul mate, operates and runs five different businesses (Protea Nutrition, RIYAN, Protea-M, ADOFitness, ADObands, and the ADOChallenge) and is an entrepre neur, author, social media influencer, and fitness expert.

AMBER DAWN ORTON

Founder | ADOFitness

Why do you think your ADOFitness method is so successful?

Through my own hardships with misguided nutritional and exercise advise in the fitness industry, I learned a lot along the way and became very empa thetic to others struggling with weight and disordered food behaviors. I started applying my methods and research on the human body and metabolism and started teaching my methods of true sustainable dieting to other coaches who had a similar past, passion, and philoso phy. I think the fact that we genuinely care about our clients’ long term health, and each coach has true empathy for others struggling with weight and diet is why we are so successful. How do you motivate clients who may not see change as quickly as they would like to or have thoughts of giving up?

Typically if a client isn’t seeing quick external changes, its due to the internal work we are doing. Many clients come to us with less than efficient metabolisms and need to reverse diet their intake. This process often doesn’t show huge ex ternal weight loss or noticeable differenc es in scale weight, however, the process often can be seen with internal changes. We remind our clients that they are eating significantly more food and either maintaining or close to maintaining if not losing body fat. That is still progress happening internally with the efficiency of their metabolic health. Many of our clients also have noticeable changes in their mood, their energy, their menstrual cycle regularity, and hormonal balance. These are all things outside of scale weight and weight loss we like to focus on and remind clients of to motivate them to keep going. The external piece will always come in time as long as the internal piece is prioritized first. Can you share a few of your favorite, most beneficial exercises?

What’s most beneficial to me may not be most beneficial to someone else. Everyone requires highly individualized training for their goals and needs from a biomechanics and health perspective. For example, my list for the general public would be different from my recommendation for fat loss goals or any other specific goal. I personally would choose the traditional deadlift with a sin gle kettlebell as a compound movement

for calorie burn, core activation, and hip depth, and most people need to have a strong deadlift to prevent back issues later in life.

Some alternatives would be:

• Heels elevated deep back squat for core activation, calorie burn, and hip depth.

• Shoulder slides on the wall because it helps people learn shoulder stabiliza tion while showing them the weak points in their mobility.

• Front plank progressions into more demanding shoulder stabilization chal lenges (i.e. single arm, arms on ball, Su perman position) because it builds upper body strength, proper balance between lats and TVA for control over the torso and helps prevent posture imbalances which prevent hip issues.

Do you allow your son to eat junk food?

I think balance and moderation is key with all dietary choices. However, what’s considered junk to me personally would probably be considered ‘not that bad’ to many others. My son has grown up with seeing my lifestyle food choices. These are our normal dietary patterns, so he doesn’t really know or think differently. I allow him to eat chocolate and sweets, but we always go for higher-end ingre dients: organic, refined sugar free, dairy free, no artificial dyes, etc. There are

many options in this realm that contain sugar and are still extremely tasty but according to some others this may not be considered junk. We also never eat fast food. He doesn’t ask for it or desire it because it’s not something he’s ever been accustomed to eating.

Since you follow such a strict diet, how do you manage situations such as going out to dinner, parties, etc.?

I don’t follow a strict diet, so that’s a misguided interpretation of how I eat. I’ve worked on my personal metabolic health for over six years now which has granted me the flexibility and ease to eat a lot of food and maintain my body. I do have dietary preferences, however. I don’t eat conventional dairy and lean more towards a plant-based diet with the inclusion of some high quality organic grass and pasture-raised meats and wild game. If I go out to eat, I typically have no issues asking for modifications in meals to meet my dietary preferences. It’s not a mental struggle for me in the least as I truly enjoy and want to eat the way I do. If I go to a social event, I eat food that is appealing to me without hesitation. Again, I try to eat the most high-quality healthy foods, so this makes the choices for me naturally easy. I have no problem declining things such as cookies, sweets, etc. made with artificial ingredients and white refined sugar as it’s just not appealing to me.

If you were going to splurge on a deca dent dessert, what would it be?

A dairy free carrot cake. I love carrot cake but don’t care for the dairy used in most recipes. I have a cake-maker locally make me a dairy free carrot cake for most holidays/birthdays and events. What does the word power mean to you?

Power means having the ability to influence others. I think this goes a long way in many different realms, but especially on social media. Living as an “influencer” I do realize I have the power to influence thoughts, opinions, consum erism, etc. through what I post. That power can be extremely beneficial in an industry where I feel a lot of detrimen tal information is given out in terms of health and fitness. Like I mentioned be fore, the fitness industry is not the health industry. I have the power to influence, and that makes me grateful.

Garcelle

Named one of People magazine’s highly-coveted 50 Most Beautiful, Haitian-born actress Garcelle Beauvais immigrated to the United States at the age of seven with her mother and sisters and has since charmed audiences with her dramatic and comedic abilities. Balancing perfectly between the small screen and big screen, this cultural icon proudly became the first black cast member on Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” Cementing her status as a media queen, she released a memoir titled “Love Me as I Am,” which is about life, love, and the pursuit of true happiness. It quickly rose in the ranks, landing in the #1 spot on Ama zon and garnering a great deal of press attention including “Good Morning America,” “Nightline,” and People Maga zine. Most recently she expanded her empire to include a home line with HSN called Garcelle at Home.

A look back at Garcelle’s career shows a hybrid of busi nesswoman and mother who has been a cherished face in Hollywood for over three decades. She got her start in 90s comedies “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and “The Jamie Foxx Show.” She went on to appear in television series including SyFy’s “The Magicians,” NBC’s “Chicago Med,” “NYPD Blue,” “Franklin & Bash,” HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “Arrested Development,” “Power” on Starz and others. In addition to scripted TV, she co-host ed on Fox’s daytime talk show “Hollywood Today Live,” where she broke down the latest in entertainment, pop culture, and celebrity news. She also co-hosted for E!’s “Fashion Police,” and “Access Hollywood Live” on NBC.

On the voice-over side of work, Garcelle was heard in the Nickelodeon mini-series “Middle School Moguls” as ‘Mrs. Pierre’ in her native Haitian accent. Recently, she wrapped her final season on the multi-award-winning talk show, Fox’s “The Real” as co-host.

Working in film has always been a passion for Garcelle. She has starred in box office hits “White House Down” with Jamie Foxx and Channing Tatum as the First Lady of the United States, “Flight” with Denzel Washington, “American Gun” with Forrest Whitaker, “Coming to America” (1988), and the sequel “Coming 2 America” (2021), where she worked once again with Eddie Murphy. She was also in “Bad Company” with Chris Rock, “Barbershop 2: Back in Business” with Queen Latifah,

and “Spider-Man: Homecoming” with Tom Holland, among others. Above all, Garcelle’s most important job is being a mother. She was inspired by motherhood to write a children’s book series entitled “I AM,” addressing identity issues relevant to many children today. There are three successful books in the series. The book series was re-released in April, 2020 for its fifth anniversary. Garcelle was recently named as Cybersmile’s Ambassa dor. Cybersmile is multi-award-winning nonprofit orga nization committed to digital well-being and tackling all forms of bullying and abuse online. Garcelle supports the Step Up Women’s Network, a national nonprofit that em powers women and girls to be strong and reach their full potential. She is also an active supporter of UNICEF and Angels for Humanity, an organization that helps children in Haiti through education and health-based initiatives. After she went on a humanitarian trip with the orga nization to help feed over 3,500 children, Garcelle was honored with the Distinguished Humani tarian Award at their 6th Annual Catwalk for Charity in 2019.

Garcelle resides in Los Angeles and has three sons, Oliver, her firstborn who has made her a proud grandmother and her twins, Jax and Jaid.

Beauvais

What do you remember the most about working with Eddie Murphy on the movie “Coming to America” at the age of 19? How did it feel to play the same role almost 30 years later in the sequel?

I would say that both times were surreal. In the first movie I was so young that I didn’t really know anything about acting. Being on such a huge set (it was my first movie), I was in awe of everything. When we shot the sequel some 30 years later it was great for most of us to be together again. There was so much buzz surrounding the movie. It was a reunion of sorts.

As the first African American housewife in the Beverly Hills franchise, what positive message do you hope you are sending to viewers?

We are in every zip code, so it’s important to represent. I feel I’ve shown us in a great light since I’m a down-to-earth mom and a successful wom an. I hope to provide a positive message by being relatable and inspirational as well. What did you like best about being a co-host on the talk show, “The Real?”

Everything! I enjoyed having a platform to share my views, being able to talk about import ant topics (not just pop culture) and being with the other women sharing different points of view without judgment.

What inspired you to write your new book, “Love Me as I Am?”

It felt like it was the right time to share my story in-depth. I’m in a good place personally and professionally and made peace with some things from my past. I hope people can relate to my story and also find inspiration to keep moving forward.

As the mother of three young men, how do you find a balance between your career and family life?

My boys are my priority, but I also want them to know that having to support the family means I have to work and some times I will miss a game or a performance. I also feel it’s import ant for them to know I have dreams and things that I want to accomplish myself as a woman. The bottom line is that I love them more than anything and like most working women we have to juggle sometimes.

Who is your favorite clothing designer?

That’s like asking me to pick my favorite child. Azzedine Alaia was one of my favorite designers. The fabrics and the style were perfection. I don’t always need big label; it’s more about if I love the look.

If you could give your younger self some good advice, what would it be?

To keep going and don’t be afraid. Life gets better and better. What charities do you support and why are they important to you?

I support Angels for Humanity. They do a lot of great work for children, especially in Haiti and the Caribbean. I also support UNICEF for everything they do.

What is your favorite meal?

I enjoy sushi or Haitian food. How often do you cook?

Between my schedule and my boys’ school sports schedule, I try to cook on the weekends.

Name three make up products you can’t live without.

Kevyn Aucoin concealer, Maybelline black mascara, and beau ty blender.

What is your favorite perfume?

I always choose a signature scent for a few years and then I switch. Right now it’s Burberry Brit.

If you were having a dinner party, who would be the first guest on your invite list (besides your children)?

My list would include Sutton Stracke from Beverly Hills, Michelle Obama, and Brad Pitt (ha-ha).

If you were stranded on a desert island, who would be the one person you would want to be with?

I would want to be with my mom because she was a survivor. What is your biggest pet peeve?

I can’t stand people who are rude. What does the word power mean to you?

Power means working with your strengths and weaknesses and standing by your convictions. Just because I have power doesn’t mean you can’t be powerful also.

Garcelle Beauvais

Love Me as I Am

“Love Me As I Am” is Garcelle Beauvais’s smart, inspiring, and raw memoir— an entertaining and unforget table emotional rollercoaster ride that moves from her early childhood years in Haiti to her adolescence in Boston; from her heady days as a young model in New York— her first taste of real freedom—to Los Angeles and the many ups, downs, and then more ups, both personal and professional, she experienced in her three-decade acting career, including her massive fame as a star of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.”

Throughout her life, Beauvais has suffered from an emotional battle between her wild, rebellious nature and her desire to be a “good girl.” No matter how many cover stories she earned, “Most Beautiful” lists, or coveted roles in iconic series such as “The Jamie Foxx Show” and “NYPD Blue,” Beauvais could not cure herself of her “disease to please” or learn to put herself first. She also had to learn how to un apologetically put herself first. In “Love Me As I Am,” she brings together the voices of both the good girl and the rebel to deliver an unflinch ing examination of her successes and ongoing challenges as a mother, wife, daughter, sibling, and friend.

Beauvais fearlessly talks about how she bold ly embraced her sexuality in her 40s, and her determination to break free of the stereotypes that define and limit African American women in popular culture. Most importantly, she re veals how finally putting herself first led to bet ter relationships with her three sons and even her ex-husband. Beauvais dishes too—offering juicy behind-the-scenes stories from movie sets, red carpet events, and “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.”

“Love Me As I Am” is an unflinching look at one woman’s extraordinary journey to create a new and more exciting life—and to become the woman she was meant to be.

Janis Spindel

Get Serious About Getting

Married: 365 Proven Ways to Find Love in Less Than a Year

“Get Serious” is the ultimate guide to finding your soul mate -- for the smart, sophisticated 35+ wom an. Are you looking for the right man with whom to spend the rest of your life? Still waiting for “the one” and fed up with dates that go nowhere? Janis Spindel, called a “matchmaker extraordinaire” by the New York Post, has all the advice you need to help you find your perfect match. With more than 700 marriages to her credit, Spindel lays out a clear road map for women who are single -- but don’t want to be. She explains how to set your priorities, update your look, maximize your dating opportunities, and enter into a lasting and satisfying commitment. Get ready to succeed with helpful questionnaires, sidebars, lively tips, and candid, age-specific advice geared toward women who are already established in their lives and careers.

And here’s the great news: The marriage of your dreams is within reach! Prepare to laugh, prepare to do some serious thinking, and prepare to find the love of your life with this ultimate guide to unlocking your soul mate’s heart -- and your own.

Corner

Dr. Tacoma R. Anderson

Becoming The Woman God Intended Me to Be

This book is one that is real, trans parent, and possibly more direct than other book you will read and it is an act of obedience to God on my part. It is not written with the intent of bragging, airing laundry, or meeting others’ expectations. It is written for those that are seeking because they feel a need for transitioning and transformation but unsure of how to begin. Just make the choice to follow Christ Jesus, to trust him, and obey his word.

Rena Stephens

For

Ronda M. Kelso

Charlise A. Curtis

Loretta F. Hives Moody

Worship Service

Inc.

RELIGION

Angela M. Hunt

Glen

DeAnna M. Jacobs

Margaret A. McLellan

Heights

School

Sue Ann Schirmer

Design by Sue Ann

Rose Crossfield

Into

P.O.W.E.R.

VIPs

Xiomara M. Hoey

Catrina L. Cook-McDonald

Shayala L. Davis

Diane Robinson

Courtney Riley Lux Boutique

Anna K. Costakis

HEALTHCARE

A.

P.O.W.E.R.

Italy

TBy Tonia DeCosimo

he first P.O.W.E.R. Travel Club adventure was an experience for all in beautiful Italy. The wom en I traveled with are from different geographic areas, industries, and professions and some of these ladies, I just met for the first time. I have been fortunate enough to visit Italy several times before, but this trip was different. I am grateful for the time I shared with these powerful women and all I learned about them both pro fessionally and personally. The experience was inspiring, enlightening, educational, empowering, and adventurous. We visited Genoa, Portofino, Rapallo, Milan, and Lake Como. The food was amazing, as was the ambience of each restaurant we tried throughout our trip. Experienc ing the Italian culture and sites first-hand feels like you are walking through history. The only thing I felt was missing was Italian music. All they played was American music and I hear enough of that at home.

I would like to give a special thank you to Joann Tripi from Protravel International, Westbury, New York. She did an amazing job putting together our airfare, luxury hotel stays and transportation. The trip had two parts to it and the first exciting part of the adventure will be revealed in 2023.

Other P.O.W.E.R. Travelers:

Victoria Wieck

Dr. Kara Lynne Maldonado

Dr. Kelly Mattone

Katherine Sempecos Marcie Manfredonia

Tsikki Thau

JoAnn Tripi

FOOD

Bone broth is nothing new. People have been consuming it for centuries. But in the last few years it has enjoyed renewed popularity as a health food. I have recently jumped on the band wagon and began drinking one cup a day. It is best to drink it on an empty stom ach so your body can easily absorb all the nutrients, so

I heat it up in the micro wave and sip on it an hour or so before dinner. Ex perts say having one cup a day may provide a number of benefits for your overall well-being. Here are the reasons I am giving it a try:

1. May be anti-ageing

2. Good for digestion and gut health

3. May support immune function

4. May support joint health

TRENDS

FASHION

Three great dresses for fall that are perfect for day or night

Greek Key Print Gold Button Knit Dress

Features: Decorative buttons, round neckline, mini length, long sleeves.

Color: Black/Gray

Argyle Checkerboard

Plush Dress

Features: Slit, off-shoulder neckline, midi length, long sleeves.

Color: Coffee/Cream

Midi Length Faux Leather Dress

Features: Gold snap buttons and belt.

Color: Camel

Food, Fashion, Beauty, and Health. Here are Tonia’s picks for fall 2022:

Why are we hearing so much about dermaplaning lately? Maybe because those who have done it love the results!

Sometimes referred to as microplaning or blading, der maplaning is a skin treatment that uses an exfoliating blade to skim dead skin cells and hair from the face. It is a quick 30-45 minute process that leaves skin youthful and glowing, and you will find your makeup goes on much smoother right after the treatment. Dermaplaning can help people who suffer from acne scars, dull skin, dry skin, sun-damaged skin, and fine wrinkles.

Dermaplaning can be done professionally which can get costly, or you can just do it at home with similar results. All you need is an exfoliating dermaplaning tool which is also known as an eyebrow razor. You can purchase a package of 15 for $9.99 on Amazon or you could also turn to other, more high-tech and expensive tools like the Sima Sonic Der maplaning Device for Exfoliation & Peach Fuzz Removal for $29.99 or the DERMAFLASH LUXE+ for $199.00.

Dermaplaning Cold Showers

HEALTH & WELL BEING

Right now, cold is what’s HOT! It may sound like tor ture, but more and more people are “warming” up to the idea that being cold has a multitude of health benefits. The use of cold temperatures to treat swelling and pain has been around since 400 B.C., but lately the concept has been revisited and is now gaining popularity as a modern wellness technique. Technically, cold water therapy is defined as using water less than 59 degrees to promote health benefits. Experts claim that cold therapy can help boost mental health, support your immune system, reduce inflammation, manage stress, help you feel more

alert, improve your complexion and even aid in fat loss!

Athletes are using expensive cryotherapy chambers after training to promote recovery. Celebrities are doing cold plunge baths, and luxury hotels are even adding ice baths to their spa services menu. However, you do not need to spend a lot of money to reap the benefits of cold therapy. You can do it right

in your own shower. Your ultimate goal is to get to a five minute cold shower which is achievable by going slowly. Start by lowering the tempera ture at the end of your usual shower - get the water cold enough to where you start to feel uncomfortable - and then try to stay there for 25 seconds the first day. Each day, increase the amount of time until you work your way up to five minutes. Trust the process and you’ll be sur prised at what you can withstand in a short period of time. Those who practice cold therapy say the actually look forward to doing it every day!

The information provided is for educa tional purposes only. Always consult your healthcare practitioner before participating in new activities, health regimens, or skin care routines.

Carrie Preston

ACTRESS

Described as a “scene stealer” by Variety, E! News, the New York Post, ET, The Daily Beast and countless others, Emmy winner Carrie Preston is a fixture on small and large screens alike. For seven seasons she starred as Arlene Fowler, the sassy red-headed waitress on the hit HBO series, “True Blood.” She won an Emmy playing Elsbeth Tascioni on CBS’s “The Good Wife” and played the same role on its spin-off, “The Good Fight.” For five years, she also played Grace, the love interest to her real-life husband, Michael Emerson, on CBS’ fan favorite, “Person of Interest.” In 2022, Carrie will be sharing the big screen in Kyra Sedgwick’s project, “Space Oddity,” and LGBTQIA+ empowerment film, “They/ Them” from John Logan. Carrie had the pleasure of playing Kevin Bacon’s wife in both projects.

Television saw Carrie play the female lead in the NBC

sit com, “Crowd ed,” opposite Patrick Warburton, as Polly in the hit TNT series, “Claws,” and in “Dr. Death,” with Joshua Jackson. She starred in the ABC 8-hour LGBT rights-driven miniseries, “When We Rise,” by Dustin Lance Black. Carrie played opposite Hank Azaria in the second season of “Brockmire,” and starred alongside Guillermo Diaz in “The Dating Game Killer.” She also appeared as a celebrity judge in the 10th season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

In film, Carrie’s most recent work is the lead in the horror/comedy thriller, “30 Miles From Nowhere.” She also starred in “To The Bone” alongside Keanu Reeves and Lily Collins, as well as in “One of These Days,” playing the leading role of Joan. Her resume of films includes the indie film,

“Daisy Winters,” opposite Brooke Shields, “5 Flights Up” with Diane Keaton and Morgan Freeman, Sarah Knight’s “Vino Veritas,” Brian Crano’s “A Bag of Hammers,” oppo site Rebecca Hall and Jason Ritter, starring with Jennifer Connelly and Ed Harris in Dustin Lance Black’s “Virginia,” and starring alongside Jeremy Sisto in “Sironia.”

Born and raised in Macon, Georgia, where her mother was an artist and art therapist and her father was a geotechnical engineer, Car rie discovered her true calling lay in the performing arts. At the age of 12, she became the impresario of her own front-yard theater company as producer, writer, casting director,

costumer, director – and of course, actress. She obtained a B.F.A. from the University of Evansville followed by an acting diploma from the prestigious Juilliard School.

It was Carrie’s breakout Outer Critics Award nominated role playing Miranda in George C. Woolf’s Broadway production of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” with Patrick Stewart that led her to her big screen debut as one of the two bridesmaid sisters in the Julia Rob ert’s blockbuster, “My Best Friend’s Wedding.” She went on to win roles in major television series including ABC’s “Lost” and “Desperate Housewives.” Carrie continued to rise in her field with scene-stealing turns in “Duplicity” with Julia Roberts and Clive Owen, Woody Allen’s “Vicky Cristina Barcelona,” the Oscar-nominated “Transamerica” as Felicity Huffman’s sister, Alan Ball’s “Towelhead” opposite Aaron Eck hart, and the critically acclaimed independent film, “That Evening Sun,” with Hal Holbrook. Carrie met her now hus band, Emmy Award winning Michael Emerson, over 20 years ago in a production of “Hamlet” at the Ala bama Shakespeare Festival. Shortly afterwards, the two

starred together in the movies “Straight Jacket,” “Grace & Glorie,” and “The Journey.” Carrie later played Michael’s mother in a flashback on his hit series “Lost.” Additionally, Michael had a role in the film “29th And Gay,” which Carrie produced and directed.

Additional Broadway credits include “Festen” with Jeremy Sisto and Julianna Margulies and “The Rivals” with Brian Murray and Emily Bergl. Carrie starred in the Off-Broadway productions of “Antony and Cleopatra” at the Public Theater (cross dressing as Octavius Caesar to Vanessa Redgrave’s Cleopat ra), “Cycling Past the Matterhorn” with Shirley Knight, “Chaucer in Rome,” with Jon Tenney, “Boys and Girls,” with Malcolm Gets, “Freedomland,” the stage version of “Straight-Jacket,” and “The Libertine.” She has performed regionally at theaters such as The Guthrie, where she played Honey opposite Patrick

Stewart and Mercedes Ruehl in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?,” in William stown, where she played opposite Bebe Neuwirth and Roger Rees in “Taming of the Shrew,” and at the Baltimore Center Stage, where she originated the lead role in Warren Leight’s “No Foreigners Be yond This Point.” Carrie also performed at The Long Wharf, where she played Mia Farrow’s daughter in James Lapine’s “Fran’s Bed,” and the McCarter theater’s production of “Hamlet,” acting with her husband and brother, John G. Preston. She has also performed in countless Shakespeare plays in festivals in Georgia, Alabama, Utah, and California.

Additionally, Carrie is a director and producer with her production company, Daisy 3 Pictures. Her directorial debut was the feature film “29th and Gay,” written by and starring James Vasquez. She also directed the short film “Feet of Clay,” by David Caudle, which made

How did it feel to win an Emmy for your role as Elsbeth Tascioni in CBS’s “The Good Wife?”

When I read the very first script Elsbeth appeared in at the end of season one of “The Good Wife,” I knew it had the potential to be something really special. After the few episodes I did in season one, I didn’t hear from the show for a while. I was worried that I hadn’t quite captured it in the way it was intended. But when they did have me back, it was like it all came together in this lovely synergy between the writing, the directing, and the acting. Then, to have my peers acknowledge that with an award gave me a feeling of validation, celebration, and appreciation for the gift of that role. It was a joy to reprise her again in the final season of “The Good Fight.”

Did you actually have to learn to do nails for your role as a manicurist in “Claws?”

We all went to a nail salon boot camp of sorts before we even started shooting the pilot. We had to at least get some of the basics down so that it looked some what believable on camera. What does the word power mean to you?

Power is personal. It’s harnessing whatever life force you have inside of you and using it for good - for yourself and for others.

the festival rounds. Carrie starred in and executive produced James Vasquez’s “Ready? Ok!,” which played at more than 50 festivals, both domestic and international. She won Best Actress at Film Out San Diego, where the film had its world premiere. She also directed and produced “That’s What She Said,” a feature film written by Kellie Overbey, starring Anne Heche, Marcia DeBonis, and Alia Shawkat. Carrie was honored with two awards for the film; Best Film By A Women Director and Best Actress, Alia Shawkat. Recently, she directed an episode of “The Good Fight” and an episode on “Claws’” third and fourth seasons. She directed “Buzz” at the Ala bama Shakespeare Festival and “Happy Lucky Golden Tofu Panda Dragon Good Time Fun Fun Show,” which premiered at Soho International Film Festival. The film stars comedian Kate Rigg and the electric violin fueled poetic punk duo Slanty Eyed Mama. On the digital side, she directed the web-series, “Darwin: The Series.”

Carrie and her husband Michael live in New York City with their adopt ed dog, Chumley. In her free time, Carrie supports LGBTQIA+ rights and GLAAD, is an honorary board member for The New Harmony Project, and supports Parkinson’s Research.

Photos: Emily Assiran

Marjorie A. Graf

Vice President and Chairman of the Board of Directors Graf & Sons Inc.

Marjorie Graf is the president and chairman of the board of directors of Graf & Sons Inc. which is a wholesale sporting goods store based in Mexico, Missouri. They sell sporting goods, hunting products, ammunition, shooting, and reloading materials on a national scale. Graf & Sons, Inc. was founded in 1957 by Arnold Graf, his wife Velma, their two sons Bob and Howard, and their spouses. What has become known as “The Reloading Authority” first started as a gasoline service station in Mexico, Missouri that sold boats, motors, hunting, and fishing merchandise. Bob and Marjorie Graf be came sole owners of the business after the passing of co-founder Arnold Graf in 1972 and the retirement of Howard Graf in 1981. In 1986, Bob and Marjorie started to advertise across the board and began to sell internationally. In the beginning they shipped just 1,000-2,000 products a year but with the creation of their website, www.grafs.com, in 2001, the product lines expanded to fit the need.

Today, Graf & Sons stocks over 20,000 products and ships both nationally and inter nationally by mail order, phone sales, and internet sales. The company has many ex tremely competent employees including Marjorie’s two sons who are also involved with the business. Marjorie specializes in finance and the overall operations. She also oversees the exporting side of the business, customer service, and sales. Previously, Marjorie served in sales and service at Mexico Refractories and Kaiser Refractories for over 16 years.

In 2013, Graf and Sons Inc. was recognized by the Mexico Chamber of Commerce for their leadership in business, their retail business, and their philanthropy, and was hon ored at the 29th annual Commerce & Industry Appreciation Dinner. In January 2019, Marjorie received the Mexico Chamber of Commerce Presidential Award. Recently, she was the 2019 inductee “as an individual” into the Missouri Trapshooting Association Hall of Fame on May 17, 2019 at Linn Creek, Missouri. This was quite an honor as she has always enjoyed the shooting and hunting sports.

Sadly, Marjorie’s husband Bob passed away in 2018. In her spare time, she enjoys family activities with her four children, five grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren. Marjorie also enjoys shooting, camping, hunting, fishing, cooking, and church activities. www.grafs.com

Darcy Knapp-Fricks

Darcy Knapp-Fricks serves in a variety of industries including real estate, investments, ranching and self-storage. She is the president and co-owner of Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd., started with her sister, Shelly Knapp, in 1999, which specializes in land rentals. They also own D&S Investments. She provides, maintains, and manages rental properties and real estate.

In addition, Darcy and Shelly own The Knapp Sisters Self Storage which consists of five self-storage building facilities. The self-storage facility is a AAA business which consists of five self-storage buildings, with the largest of the five being climate controlled. They are open seven days a week. Their business was rated the #1 U-Haul dealer in the state of Texas and #3 U-Haul dealer in the U.S.

Darcy and her sister are members of the Texas Self Storage Association, the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, the Arlington Historical Society, the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bu reau. Darcy attended the University of Texas at Arlington and Texas Wesley an University. She was featured in an article regarding her family donating land to make a historical park. In her spare time, she enjoys time spent on her ranch in South Texas and travel.

Darcy’s advice to others is to always go with your gut feeling; it will not steer you wrong. There is nothing too big or too small for you to accomplish. If you believe in yourself and whatever your plans are, you can be successful. She feels strongly that you should never let anyone take your

dreams away from you. When she got the idea to build the self-storage facility, she had made up her mind that it was going to be different from others. Even though she knew nothing about the storage business until then, Darcy listened to her gut that told her to go with it, and it has been a success.

Q&A

How did you get started in your field/industry?

The real estate company that my sister and I own together was inherited from my grandfather and my father. As a result, it just made sense to create a rental business, since most of the property was residential. My grandfather was instrumental in the development of Arlington, Texas, and retained a lot or two out of all the developments that he created. These were res idential neighborhoods with small homes that we put together to create Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd., along with other purchases we made over the years. We then used them as rental properties. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The oil and gas industry has been very challenging. It has been a learn-as-you-go experience with these companies. My grandfather was an attorney by trade, but his passion was real estate. In the process of clos

ing real estate deals, he retained all the mineral rights to every real estate deal that he had a hand in. He said that eventually technology would catch up, and it did. My sister and I inherited those mineral rights to properties that we never knew anything about. This became a blessing when the Barnett Shale (one of the largest onshore natural gas fields in the U.S.) came into play in Texas. That opened a whole new field for us, but the learning curve was difficult.

How do you achieve work/life balance?

I have a ranch in South Texas that I escape to whenever I have a free weekend. It is in the middle of nowhere with river front property that is spring fed. Being there is an amazing experience. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I get back to nature. I have a hanging bed on my back porch. After a long work day, I make myself a cold drink, relax on my back porch, and watch the wildlife in my wooded back yard. What advice has helped you get to the next level?

Always go with your gut feelings.

Knapp Sisters Self Storage

Whether you’re in the process of moving or are trying to clear some space in your home, you need a place to store your belongings with the peace of mind of knowing your items are safe and secure. Knapp Sis ters Self Storage is an AAA, top-of-the-line facility in Mansfield, TX offering climate and non-climate-con trolled storage units. We are also a Top 100 U-Haul dealer with trailers, trucks and vans for all of your moving needs! From a state-of-the-art alarm system, to key-fob entry, to 24/7 security and surveillance, your things are protected with us.

What does empowerment mean to you?

Being empowered means being able to move for ward with the knowledge and experience that gives you the self-confidence to do whatever you dream of doing.

Who is one of your favorite designers?

Free People.

What is your favorite meal?

Fajitas.

How often do you cook?

I cook three to four times a week.

Name your favorite makeup products.

Estée Lauder

What is your favorite perfume?

AMPERSAND from Tiffany & Co.

If you are having a dinner party, who is the first guest on your invite list (besides your children)?

best friends.

Chicken Spaghetti by Darcy Knapp Fricks

Ingredients

1 pkg. of chicken breasts

1 lb. angel hair pasta or spaghetti

jar of spaghetti sauce + 1 jar of water

chopped green pepper

chopped onion

cloves of garlic chopped

Tbsp. oregano

and pepper

Directions

Place all ingredients (except pasta) in a crock pot. Turn the crock pot on high and cook for 4-6 hours, until chicken is tender.

Boil pasta until tender. Drain. Pour con tents from crock pot onto pasta and serve with salad and garlic bread.

Donna Drake

TV Personality, Author, SAG Actor, Production Studio Owner

Donna Drake is an inter national, award-winning creative artist, writer, pro ducer, actor, and influencer. She is the creator and host of “The Donna Drake Show: Live it Up!,” a weekly, hour-long television and digital talk series. Airing across the U.S. and in 25 countries from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m., “The Donna Drake Show,” produced by Drake Media Network, Inc., is a two-time Telly Award winner, focus ing on topics of hope, motivation, and resilience through empowering conversations. Now in its 14th year, the show features interviews with celebrity entertainers, sports legends, top journalists, business moguls, authors, motivational speakers, medical professionals, health and wellness experts, beauty and fashion icons, chefs, nonprofit groups, and everyday heroes sharing their stories of tri umph, inspiration, and perseverance.

As the head of Drake Media Network, Inc. Donna specializes in content strategy, video content production, facilitating cross-plat form media experiences for national and international brands such as Green Mountain Coffee, Coca-Cola, The Melting Pot, professional sports teams, and celebrities. Drake Media Network provides flawless execu tion from strategy to deliverables in broadcast, promos, commercials, print, social media, storytelling, and events. Drake Media Network is also the creator of OTSN, The Online Trade Show Network and Virtual Gala Network.

In 2020, Donna founded Drake Media Studios, a full-service produc tion studio for film, TV, podcasting, digital content and events. Drake

Media Studios is located in Mel ville, Long Island, in the former WLNY-TV studio space, where Donna began her career in TV.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Donna spent her early career at Technisonic Studios, selecting mu sic and sound effects for radio and TV commercials. She went on to produce and host various TV, film, and multimedia projects, including

her popular public-access show “In dies Insider,” which features intimate discussions with film directors and actors, and the art-world podcast, After Party.

Donna followed her passion for art and music to New York and became an active voiceover talent and actress with a lengthy stage and screen re sumé. She has served as the director of creative services for WLNY-TV on

Amy Poehler, honoree, and Donna Drake at The Brandon Tartikoff Legacy Awards by NATPE held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on June 2, 2022

Long Island, creating exclusive promotions for “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” “Wheel of Fortune,” “Jeopardy,” and other popular programs. She later served as director of client communications at the strategic marketing firm, Progressive Marketing Group, where she developed client branding messages and hosted numerous successful podcasts. Donna is a former college professor specializing in new media and broadcasting at Five Towns College and has been tapped to lecture at NYIT, Hofstra University and Long Island University.

In 2006, Donna authored her first inspirational book, “Got Cancer? Just Roll Over and LIVE,” a memoir ded icated to her second husband, Tom LaScala. She recently penned a featured chapter in the best-selling book, “Man ifesting Your Dreams: Inspiring Words of Encouragement, Strength, & Perseverance,” as collected by Marla McKenna. She also tours as a speaker using her developed principles of FOCUS (Figuring Out Consistent Unique Strengths). Her TEDx and presentation infuses her celebrity content and her own inspirational story to help others find their own personal ‘It’ in life.

A tireless fundraiser, Donna is regularly booked to keynote and emcee events for charities, fundraisers, and business functions, creating the Huntington Arts Council’s Laff-Off Comedy Competition and Got Talent? Competi tions. She is an active member of Futures of America, the Screen Actors Guild, and the American Federation of Televi sion and Radio Artists. In 2020, Donna was named one of the Top 50 Most Influential Business Women by LIBN. She has been honored with the British Airways “Face to Face” award for best entrepreneur, received the Goddess Artemis Award from the Euro-American Women’s Council, and a Global Citizenship award from the United Nations.

What or who inspired you to start a career in the media/entertainment field?

From an early age, I knew I wanted to live in New York or California. I wanted to be famous because I was bullied in second grade, and I had a deep desire to prove something to those bullies. Perhaps if I were famous, they would have wished they had been nicer to me and were my friends. One day after recess, I was feeling a bit down, but my spirits were quickly uplifted. I was excited for music class. It was then that my inspiration took root. Although I can’t remember what song we sang, I remember the moment my music teacher, Ms. Buegner, purposely stopped and looked at me and said, “Donna Marie, you have a beautiful singing voice!” My response was loud enough for the mean girls to hear me, and I said, “Thank you, I’m going to be famous.” My teacher smiled at me. That one exchange fueled my desire and my eventual reality to work in the arts as an enter tainer.

Who is one of the most interesting guests you have interviewed?

Huge highlights include interviewing celebrities such as Tony Bennett, Jay Leno, Gloria Gaynor, Kenny Loggins, George Chakiris, Rita Moreno, Mel Brooks, and the late Ed Asner. What do you attribute your success to?

Anyone who knows me appreciates my re sourcefulness. My greatest successes were derived from networking and supporting the efforts of others in pursuing their goals. Patience, accep tance, and tenacity are a few of the other traits I possess. When I’m asked how I got my own TV show, that’s easy for me to explain: I had a dream. I literally manifested my dream to the best of my ability using the resources I had available at the time. I went to the TV station and asked if I could buy the time. They said, “Yes” and I formatted a show inviting friends to appear as my guests. One thing led to another, and I was asked to create celebrity interviews. Once a sponsor agreed to advertise on my show, others soon fol lowed suit as did the celebrities.

What does the word power mean to you?

I faced big challenges including the death of my mother while I was pregnant with my first child, becoming a widow at the age of 38, and that frightening moment I had a whole $1.97 to my name. I have triumphed over more challenges than I care to count. If I can do it, so can anyone.

Cancer Fighting Recipes

All of these recipes

that are

in fighting cancer

Zoodles with Shrimp, Avocado, and Tomatoes

Ingredients

3 medium zucchini, spiralized

1 avocado, skin and pit removed, mashed

1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

6 Tbsp. olive oil, separated

Directions

by Syndi Reibman

3 cloves fresh garlic, minced Salt and pepper, to taste

1 Tbsp. basil or a handful of fresh basil leaves torn

½ cup chicken broth ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese

Peel and mince the garlic first. Set aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Wash the zucchini under cold running water, and spiralize, or cut it into long, thin noodle-like strips (zoo dles) using a julienne vegetable slicer. Set the zoodles onto a paper towel, sprinkle with salt, mix, and allow to sweat for about 15 - 30 minutes.

Rinse the cherry tomatoes and the basil. Halve the tomatoes and chop the basil, then set them aside. Peel the avocado, remove the pit, then mash thor oughly with a fork. Set aside.

Heat 3 Tbsp. of olive oil in a skillet on medium. Season both sides of shrimp with salt and pepper, then place shrimp in pan. Sauté 2-3 minutes per side. Remove when both sides are pink and set aside in large serv

ing bowl. Add the tomatoes to the same pan. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 7 minutes until they soften. Pour toma toes over shrimp.

Add 3 Tbsp. of olive oil to pan and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for 1-3 minutes, stirring. Pat the zucchini strips dry and add them to the garlic. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. Add the chicken broth and continue cooking for 4 more minutes, stirring.

Remove the skillet from the heat, and let the zoodles cool for about 5 minutes. Pour them on top of the shrimp and tomatoes. Stir in the mashed avocado and basil. Top with parmesan and serve.

Steamed Halibut on Spinach with Lemon/Lime Sauce

By Cooking Light (www.cooking light.com)

Ingredients

6 oz. halibut or other firm white fish fillets (about 1½ inches thick)

1 lemon

1 lime

¼ cup minced shallots

2 tspn. butter

Directions

2 tspn. olive oil

1 (10-ounce) package fresh spinach

2 tspn. chopped fresh dill

½ tspn. salt, divided ¼ tspn. black pepper, divided 2 cups water

Remove rinds from lemon and lime, using a vegetable peeler (avoid white pith of rind), reserve lemon and lime rinds.

Peel and section lemon and lime over a large bowl; squeeze membranes to extract juice, reserving 3 tablespoons juice. Discard membranes.

Combine sections, reserved 3 tablespoons juice, shallots, butter, oil, and ⅛ tea spoon salt in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat; stir in dill. Sprinkle fillets with half the salt and half the pepper. Arrange fillets in a steamer basket. Combine reserved lemon and lime rinds and water in a Dutch oven; place steamer basket in pan and bring water to a boil. Steam fillets, covered, 12 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Place spinach in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; sauté three minutes or until wilted. Sprinkle spinach with remaining salt and pepper. Place ½ cup spinach on each of four plates; top each portion with 1 fillet and about 3 tablespoons lemon/lime sauce.

by Julie Ann Emery

This takes about 15 minutes of prep time. While the

Cooking with the Stars

Julie Ann Emery

Super Easy Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs.)

2 lemons

2 heads of garlic

¼ cup unsalted butter

Sea salt Pepper

Utensils Needed

Cast iron skillet (or small roasting pan)

Sharp knife Meat thermometer

Cut both lemons in half.

Cut garlic in half (crosswise-it seems wrong but it’s right).

Put 2 lemon halves, cut side down, in the skillet next to the chicken and do the same with the garlic.

Preheat the oven to 425° with the rack in the center of the oven. Melt the butter completely (mi crowave or stove top).

Rinse the chicken and remove/ discard the bag of giblets from inside the cavity.

Generously season the chicken all over and inside the cavity with salt and pepper.

Make a cut where the legs meet the breast about half way to open them up more (it cooks faster).

Place chicken in the cast iron skillet (legs up).

Put the other two lemon halves and garlic inside the cavity of the chicken.

Pour the melted butter over the top of the chicken.

Place chicken in the oven and roast for 45 minutes while you prepare sides.

Chicken is cooked when juices run clear, or a meat thermome ter reads 165°.

Let the chicken rest for 30 min utes before slicing.

While the chicken rests, I Iike to throw some broccoli on a pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast at that same temp for 25 minutes.

Julie Ann’s Grilled Chicken

6-8 boneless skinless chicken breasts (however many you need)

*if breasts are very thick, halve them for quicker and even cooking 1 bottle store bought Balsamic vinaigrette dressing

Pour the bottle of Balsamic vinaigrette into a gal lon size Ziplock bag (or bowl with lid if you prefer).

Put the chicken breasts in the bag with the vinaigrette.

Leave in the fridge to marinate for at least three hours.

Throw them on a medium/high grill about five minutes per side. Juices should run clear if you make a slight cut inside.

I like to grill asparagus or corn at the same time for a full meal from the grill.

Carrie Preston

Squash Casserole, Southern Style

Ingredients

2 lbs. yellow summer squash, sliced (you can mix in some zucchini squash)

1 cup chopped onion

1 cup water

Salt to taste

¼ cup butter

Pepper to taste

8 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup crushed saltines

2 eggs, slightly beaten

Preheat oven to 350°. First cook the squash by combining first 4 ingredients in large saucepan and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and cook, uncov ered, 15 - 20 minutes until squash is tender, stirring frequently. Drain well and mash coarsely with butter and pepper. Then add the cheese, saltines and eggs. Mix well and pour into greased shallow 1 ½ quart baking dish and bake for 35 minutes.

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