P.O.W.E.R. Magazine Winter 2020 by Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized

“If you share my passion for fine jewelry, you will love my boutique and website.” – Esther Fortunoff

1500 Old Country Road, Westbury, NY 11501 FortunoffJewelry.com • 1.800.636.7886

Suzy Amis Cameron

Environmental Advocate and Author Founder, MUSE School

uzy Amis Cameron is a noted environmental advocate, former actor and model and mother of five. In addition to founding MUSE School with her sister Rebecca Amis, she has founded a number of environmental organizations, including Cameron Family Farms (together with her husband, director James Cameron), Plant Power Task Force, Food Forest Organics, and Red Carpet Green Dress. Suzy is the author of “The OMD Plan: Swap One Meal a Day to Save Your Health and Save the Planet.”

Please tell us how and why you created the OMD Movement. I’m obsessed with the environment and making the world a better place for our children and future generations. The OMD movement is focused on climate-friendly, healthy eating and making it accessible and available for all. It includes my first book, “The OMD Plan,” a website www. omdfortheplanet.com with resources, recipes, and a community. The OMD team works to increase access for healthy school lunch programs across the country. What positive results have you seen since 2012 when you co-founded the Plant Power Task Force? So much has happened in seven years. In the beginning, we were on our soapbox sounding the alarm about food and climate. We’ve since gotten a little more nuanced in our approach.

Hard-hitting research and studies have also come out on the environment and health in that time, including one that we supported on animal agriculture and climate. Your Red Carpet Green Dress global initiative showcasing sustainable fashion on the red carpet has been embraced by both designers and celebrities. Are there any plans to produce this repurposed and echo-designed clothing to the general public? Since 2009, Red Carpet Green Dress has showcased sustainably produced red carpet gowns at the Academy Awards in partnership with major fashion brands and celebrities to spread the message of sustainable fashion. Additionally, RCGD X eco-collaborates with brands who put sustainability at the core of everything they do, such as our 2019 AMUR X RCGD collection and the “No

Red Carpet Needed” line with Reformation. How do you juggle being a wife, environmental advocate, author, producer and founder of several organizations and a school, while raising five children? I never stop. My kids are getting older and developing their own lives and interests, so that’s exciting. I also have a great support system that allows me to live out my purpose. My children are my heart and give me the motivation to make this world a better place. What is your favorite movie? “Titanic” changed my life (because that’s where I met my husband). Yet “Avatar” is my favorite movie of all-time (and not just because it’s my husband’s film!). What does the word empowerment mean to you? Women kicking butt and taking names. omdfortheplanet.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 3

Table

OF CONTENTS

Cover Story

Newton-John With more than 100 million albums sold, Olivia Newton-John’s successes include four Grammy awards, numerous Country Music, American Music and People’s Choice awards, ten #1 hits. The movie“Grease”, in which she co-starred with John Travolta, remains the most successful movie musical in history.

Brenda Braxton Tony Award Nominated Entertainer, Actress, Author and Entrepreneur 4 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Chimene Van Gundy

The “Mobile Home Millionaire”

Suzy Amis Cameron

One Meal a Day for the Planet Creator

Shouldn’t you be home with your three kids, lol? by Lyss Stern

Tonia’s Talk

JOANN TRIPI’S

Travel Tips

ON WHERE TO VACATION

Women of P.O.W.E.R. Nicole Winhoffer

10 12

Dr. Kelly Mattone

Joanie Demer

Cosmetic Physician Aesthetic Medical Studio

Carola Jain

Veronica Wright

Lifetime Achievement Award Woman of the Month

15 24

Anita Latin

Women of the Month

TV Chef Carla Hall shares her recipe for Black-Eyed Pea Salad with Hot Sauce Vinaigrette, plus P.O.W.E.R. members’ Roasted Chicken Fajita and Banana Bread recipes.

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Features P.O.W.E.R. VIP List

P.O.W.E.R. Publicity

Sonia Bitton

34 44 Mentor of the Year

Best wishes for an amazing 2020!

Book Corner

Empowered Women’s List

Trending

Sara Anne

Combat boots, the pinky ring and polka dots are what’s ‘hot’ this season. Plus amazing smart phones capture cool night shots

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 5

TJA PUBLISHING, LLC

PRESIDENT AND EDITOR IN CHIEF Tonia DeCosimo

Brenda Braxton

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Syndi Reibman SENIOR EDITOR Susan Koop EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Ellen Gold PUBLIC RELATIONS Alison Swerdloff MEDIA DIRECTOR Jeremy Felber WEB DESIGNER & IT Chris Ziminski CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cris Bell CONTROLLER Maureen Meagher EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Nicole Crumb ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Carol Barnett Shari Brozinsky Anna Rose Cameron Helene Kaye Sari Meyer Renee Rosenfeld Jacalyn Winters Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized/P.O.W.E.R. magazine is published 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 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 2020 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.

6 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Olivia Newton-John

s you open up this issue of P.O.W.E.R. Magazine, let it inspire you to set some new goals for 2020. Our winter issue is full of amazing women who have overcome challenges and give back by helping others. Our cover girl, America’s sweetheart, Olivia Newton-John, is a vibrant, creative individual who is beloved around the globe as both a singer and actress. While dealing with her own reoccurrences of cancer, she talks openly about her journey with cancer; most recently with her book, “Don’t Stop Believin’.” She created the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Center in Australia and has raised more than $2 million to find a new way to treat cancer. Brenda Braxton is a Tony Award nominated entertainer, actress, author and entrepreneur, appearing on Broadway in many of the top shows including Dreamgirls and Smokey Joe’s Café. In realizing the importance of giving back, Brenda founded a

Talk

TONIA’S

Carla Hall

Chimene Van Gundy

nonprofit organization called “Leading Ladies Just for Teens,” (LLJFT) which offers seminars geared toward empowering young girls. She also launched Act 2… Now What?, seminar/ workshops designed to give women over 50 help and encouragement to proceed with the next phase of their lives. Chef, best-selling author and television personality Carla Hall grew up surrounded by soul food. Carla believes food connects us all. She is very active with a number of charities and nonprofits that reflect her passion for causes close to her heart including Helen Keller International that works to improve the lives of those with blindness. Chimene Van Gundy is a real estate investor and entrepreneur with Outstanding Real Estate Solutions, Inc. and Mobile Home Millions, LLC. Realizing the need for mobile homes and affordable housing, she focused her real estate career on this niche market. She is now known as the “Queen of Mobile Homes.” With all her success, Chimene continues to educate others that manufactured housing or mobile homes are not trailer trash.

With the new year upon us, many people make resolutions that are generally geared toward bettering themselves through health, nutrition, career and other personal attributes. This year, instead, I think we should try to be better people and make our world a better place. Give of yourself more – whether it is spending time with loved ones, contributing to a charitable cause, volunteering at a local shelter, or just being a kinder person. The value of a person’s life is determined by how we affect others and the impact we leave on the world. In the new year, let’s focus on finding a way to pay it forward and give back to others. Best wishes for an amazing 2020,

Tonia DeCosimo

EDITOR IN CHIEF

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 7

Brenda Braxton

Tony Award Nominated Entertainer, Actress, Author and Entrepreneur

renda Braxton was destined for the stage. While most of her classmates at the famed High School of Performing Arts dreamed that their talents would one day be recognized, a year after graduation, Brenda was cast in the hit Broadway show “Guys & Dolls.” Her real claim to fame was her performance in Broadway’s musical revue “Smokey Joe’s Café” which earned her a Tony Award nomination, the NAACP Theater Award, the city of Chicago’s Jefferson Award and a Grammy Award for Best Cast Album. She went on to star as Velma Kelly in Broadway’s hit musical “Chicago” opposite Usher, BeBe Neuwirth, Rita Wilson and Brian McKnight. Her other Broadway credits include “Jelly’s Last Jam” with Gregory Hines and 8 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Savion Glover, “Cats,” “Legs Diamond” and the original production of “Dreamgirls” with Jennifer Holiday. Her TV credits include “Nurse Jackie,” “Smash,” and most recently “The Good Fight” Season 3 on CBS All Access. She was a guest performer on Fran Drescher’s 2019 Cancer Schmancer Dinner Cruise. In realizing the importance of giving back, Brenda founded a nonprofit organization called “Leading Ladies Just for Teens,” (LLJFT) which offers seminars geared toward empowering young girls to be the best they can be. Leading Ladies began in 1996 at the Virginia Theater with a series of seminars designed to encourage, challenge and inspire young girls to dream and set goals. For her work as the founder of LLJFT, Brenda

received the Dr. Martin Luther King “Living the Dream” award given by New York’s Governor Pataki, the Josephine Baker Award from the National Council of Negro Women, and the Community Service award given by the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women. In 2006 she launched a grooming parlor in Harlem called BBRAXTON; Exceptional Grooming for Exceptional Men, which offered grooming services for gentlemen. Brenda was the only woman honored with the “Men of Style Award,” presented by Gillette Fuzion. Currently closed, BBRAXTON provided grooming services to many Broadway show actors. There will be a relaunch in the near future.

In 2015 Brenda launched Act 2… Now What?, seminar/ workshops designed to give women over 50 that boost needed to get on with the new phase of their lives. The workshop is an ‘in your face’ sort of boot camp with life coaches (exBroadway showgirls) who don’t know the meaning of the words “I’m too old.” Brenda is also the author of “The Little Black Book of Backstage Etiquette,” an insight into what to expect and how to handle some of the common sense situations that might arise once you finally book a show. What made you want to become an actress? I started out as a dancer. I attended the High School of Performing Arts here in New York. I wanted to be a Graham dancer, however, a year out of high school I auditioned for and booked my first Broadway show. The rest was just the natural progression of wanting to learn and continue to grow in theater. How has working on Broadway with icons such as Gregory Hines, Peter Allen, BeBe Neuwirth and Jennifer Holiday, to name a few, affected or influenced you? Working with icons such as Gregory and Peter was an amazing experience. Watching their professionalism and talent was truly inspiring. Bebe is my contemporary, but watching her growth and journey was something that kept me going, knowing that she started out the same as I did. I met Jennifer way before “Dreamgirls.” She was this shy little church singer auditioning for Vinnette Carroll at the Urban Arts Corp. It was great watching her grow. Tell us about your nonprofit organization called Leading Ladies Just for Teens. I started Leading Ladies Just for Teens because when it was time to apply for high school, I had one teacher who knew I loved dancing and told me about the High School of Performing Arts. I always felt that if it hadn’t been for that one teacher, there’s no telling where this little girl from the Bronx would have ended up. So, I wanted to be that “one person” to a young girl who might need that influence. I called on my fellow Leading Ladies to help. I held seminars at the theater where I was performing in “Smokey Joe’s Café” and the participants also attended the show. They would then meet the cast and women who worked backstage. As the founder of Act 2… Now What, focusing on women over 50, what tips can you give to women looking to make the “Act 2” of their lives spectacular? Tips I would give are nothing new, but they definitely need to be revisited.

Photo: Gabriel Coppola

1. It’s ok to be selfish and put your needs first for a change. 2. It’s never too late to seek your dreams. 3. Only associate with people who are on the same positive mental and spiritual path as you. 4. Find an accountability partner. You can keep one another going. 6. Stop telling the same “Old Story.” What was the inspiration behind BBRAXTON? BBRAXTON was developed in 2005 from a magazine article my ex-husband read about a young man who went on a date wearing a pair of sandals. When his date saw how unkempt his feet were, it opened a dialogue about men’s grooming. At the time, the idea of men getting manicures and pedicures was not “popular.” We thought that if we could develop an all-inclusive, upscale barber shop, then gentlemen would feel more comfortable having these services performed. I think BBRAXTON was ahead of its time when we opened in 2006. Since then, the male grooming industry has boomed. My relaunch in 2020 is perfectly timed with a brand new location. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment to me means finding your own voice and being unapologetic about it; taking chances; feeling the fear and doing it anyway. You have accomplished so much already. What’s next for you? I’m looking forward to the relaunch of BBRAXTON, joining the cast of The Good Fight on CBS All Access, and getting more TV and movie work. www.bbraxtonact2.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 9

NICOLE WINHOFFER

Fitness Artist and Founder NW Method

icole Winhoffer was born in New York City to a Filipino mother and German father. Her family enjoyed a daily athletic ritual. From an early age, Nicole trained as a dancer, diver, swimmer, and enjoyed track and field while her three younger brothers played soccer. Dance was always a passion of Nicole’s. Through the years she excelled in it because she discovered that it was the only athletic workout that allowed her to express herself, release emotions, and keep fit. At the age of 17, she booked her first Broadway show, appearing in “42nd Street,” “Bombay Dreams,” and “Wicked.” Inspired by art, dance, fashion, music, and popular culture, Nicole’s workout method is creative, innovative and unconventional. She seeks to continuously do what’s never been done before, combining her knowledge of the body, dance, sports science, anatomy and Eastern practices that focus on the chakras, acupuncture points and energy work. The NW Method has played a leading role in shaping some of the best bodies in the entertainment industry including Madonna, Mya, Rachel 10 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Weisz, Stella McCartney, Andrea Riseborough, Abbie Cornish and Steven Klein. The NW Method is available anytime, anywhere. The app, “NWChurch” can be downloaded digitally and is available online. Nicole also offers private training and group classes. From 2010-2014, Nicole was the creative director of Hard Candy Fitness’ “Addicted to Sweat” program, which she co-created with Madonna to make their workouts accessible to all fitness levels. During this time, Nicole successfully helped to open eight Hard Candy Fitness gyms across the globe, teaching trainers in each location the Addicted to Sweat program. At the end of 2014, Nicole was announced as the new “Global Ambassador of Women’s Training for Adidas” by Stella McCartney. Saying “Yes” to the universe and trusting herself has led Nicole to where she is today. She is always pushing the boundaries of fitness and striving to set a new standard of fitness in the 21st Century. Through movement, Nicole wants to inspire others to realize their dreams and lead them to their most balanced, beautiful and best self.

At the age of 17, you were already dancing in Broadway shows. How did that influence your career in fitness? I started dancing at age seven. Dance influenced my physical, emotional and mental health starting at a very young age. I practiced this discipline for many years. It allowed me to develop my own unique self-expression. Through keeping fit myself, I saw a need to bring artistic expression to fitness, which was typically physically focused. The body is a wondrous creation where the outside is the perfect expression of the mental, emotional and spiritual form. The shape of the body represents your insides! Tell us about your NW Method of fitness training. NW Method was created to sculpt a woman’s natural curves and free her spirit. It is the only training method focused on shaping a woman’s problem areas, enhancing her curves, and helping her find her spirituality, creativity and body-appreciation through fitness. Through studying anatomy and dance, I found key muscles that were not being targeted in a woman’s everyday movement that are performed in high repetition to the beat of different melodies of music. In addition, the chi – or life force of the body – is re-energized and centered through dynamic movements and breathing to balance the body. It is a blend of Eastern healing and Western physical training. Most importantly, it is fun and easy to follow along. On seasons two and three of E!’s “Revenge Body with Khloe Kardashian,” the NW Method was featured through training two clients toward a transformational experience. Within 12 weeks, both clients lost 50 pounds using 12 programs. These programs are available on-line on nicolewinhoffer.com and are called “Transformation Nation: 12 Weeks to the Best You.” What was it like to be announced as the new global ambassador of women’s training for Adidas by Stella McCartney?

From 2014-2016, I was named the first global ambassador to Adidas by Stella McCartney. It was truly one of the best experiences of my life. It was the first time that the brand hired a fitness artist and expert to showcase their clothing and apparel. I was able to travel the world and share my NW Method and teach women NW’s fitness philosophy. I was nervous because as with anything new, I felt vulnerable in creating something new while not following any footprint or formula. My Global Marketing Coach, Terrell Clark III, was a wonderful mentor and positive influence in guiding me through

this journey. Stella McCartney created beautiful palettes and shapes that spoke to my fitness philosophy. From the clothing, I was able to create beautiful pieces of art and choreography for my life’s work. How do you maintain balance between your professional and personal life? I think I am learning how to do this every day. Because I work with people and I love learning and improvement studies, it seems as though I spend every minute of the day working. I believe a healthy integration of the two is needed without such a black and white boundary. I also believe that every day I am learning my boundaries and they change with relation to others.

I do know that I have developed a “Needs” list – and these are things that I need to feel whole and grounded. For a while, they were just career and business oriented. Now I am creating a life that includes smaller, simpler things that make me happy, like sleep, good food, good company, self-trust and faith. It seems that the more energy I call into myself, the more goodness I attract. What advice would you give to help motivate women to improve their health and fitness? First, I ask, “What is your goal?” If we don’t identify your goal (body, mind, life, career) we won’t know where you want to go. Write it all down – your top ten goals. Second, I would ask, “Where in your schedule are you carving out time for movement or fitness?” It must be planned six days a week to make it a healthy, new habit for yourself. Lastly, you must drink water in the morning and evening and say this positive mantra for yourself, “Every day I am growing wiser, healthier, and sexier.” Your body picks up on what you tell it – especially in the morning and in the evening. Then commit to your workout six days a week. It can be 30 minutes or an hour. I offer videos on my website like “Waist Trimmer,” “Silhouette Sculptor,” ten minute, 25 minute, and varied workout bundles. It’s a great way to take time for yourself and own up to your own accountability. What does the word empowerment mean to you? To me, empowerment means choosing to be the woman you have always dreamed to be: not backing down from saying the thoughts you think and the feelings you feel. The difference between an empowered, powerful woman and one who is not, is that the empowered woman made a choice: not to betray herself, to stand up for what she believes, and love herself so hard so that she may love others as much. www.nicolewinhoffer.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 11

JOANIE DEMER Co-Founder The Krazy Coupon Lady

oanie Demer is the co-founder of The Krazy Coupon Lady, and co-author of the best-selling book, “Pick Another Checkout Lane, Honey.” Raised in a frugal family, Joanie realized early on that she wanted to find a way to reconcile tight budgets with the ability to buy the things she wanted. When her best friend Heather Wheeler, co-founder of The Krazy Coupon Lady, introduced her to couponing, Joanie found a mentally stimulating way to “hack the system” to be able to afford things her family needed and wanted. With KCL, Joanie has enjoyed sharing her love of problem-solving with millions of people through her passion for uncovering secret shopping tips and unexpected savings at grocery stores, retail chains and restaurants. She is a regular money-saving expert on Yahoo!, NBC and The Doctors with additional appearances on “Today,” “Good Morning America,” and “The View.” When she’s not talking about money-saving nuts-and-bolts, she’s building relationships with brands looking to share their products and savings with the millions of women who read The Krazy Coupon Lady each month.

12 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

She is proud that KCL is a growing company whose all-female executive team and majority female staff is reflective of the audience demographics. Additionally, Joanie has a love for the work of the company’s nonprofit wing, The KCL Foundation, which uses money-saving techniques to provide

household goods to the local refugee population. Joanie lives in Boise, Idaho, with her four children and two cats. In the rare event she gets spare time she enjoys eating tacos, watching musicals and playing the piano. thekrazycouponlady.com

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Mentor

OF THE YEAR

Veronica A. Wright President, CEO Nu Concept Courier and Logistics Inc.

How did you get started in your field/ industry? I originally started delivering packages, got bit by the courier bug and fell in love with it. What are some of the biggest challenges/ obstacles you faced in your career? Being black and female in this day and age is still a challenge in the business world. It’s very challenging trying to find quality people to work in the office and finding drivers that have honesty, character, integrity, and focus. How do you achieve work/life balance? Planning your day is a necessity but is not always possible. I spend 90% of my time working and the other 10% of the time, I try and make everything else work. Not having a spouse or children makes it easier. I am working on that balance. What tips would you give to women to ith almost 35 years experience, Veronica A. Wright is the president and CEO of Nu Concept Courier and Logistics Inc. (NCC), help them move to their next level? Know what you want. Make a firm a premier independent courier service of the Greater Atlanta area plan for how to get there. You must stay based in Georgia, which she has run for the past 18 years. NCC delivers focused no matter what obstacles you may packages or freight anywhere in the U.S. Whether it’s an envelope or truckload, customers can trust NCC for dependable deliveries 24 hours a face. Be determined to win and not quit. day, 365 days a year. The company provides local and long-distance couri- Ask yourself what you would do if you knew you would not fail. Never, never, er services, while also offering specialty delivery services. never give up. Veronica is responsible for overseeing the entire daily operations of What does the word empowerment NCC, which has a 6000 square foot warehouse in Lawrenceville, Georgia, along with a fleet of 50 drivers, each of whom she knows personally. mean to you? Empowerment means providing posiShe is an extremely focused individual who is knowledgeable about her tive reinforcement and a support system. industry. During the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Veronica had a helicopter at her disposal to deliver packages all over the city and dispatched It’s also about helping others achieve their over 100 drivers daily. Her company is a member of the Better Business goals. Bureau and both the Savannah and Pooler Chambers of Commerce. She Where do you see yourself ten years from now? was awarded the Home Based Business of the Year award in 2005 for I see myself happy, comfortable, enjoyAtlanta. NCC recently opened an office in Savannah, Georgia and has ing life, and having a growth of 100% in future plans in Houston, Texas, and Birmingham, Alabama. While most companies focus on the bottom line, Veronica chooses to focus on details my business, health, and life. What does being a mentor mean to you? and exceptional service. 90% of her customers have never met her, and Being a mentor is very important to NCC hasn’t had a salesperson since 2008. Yet, they still have phenomme. It’s all about being an example of beenal growth, no turnover, and drivers who have been with the company for over 20 years. A professional courier school is also on the horizon for ing a positive, productive, successful businesswoman, who is willing to help other January 2020. women who are serious about what they In her spare time, Veronica enjoys reading, relaxing on the water, want. It’s also about offering constructive having conversations with positive people, travel, laughing, and making things happen. Her future goals include writing her biography first, then criticism to help them reach their goals. nuconceptcourier.com writing other books about empowerment, self-help, and faith. 14 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Lifetime

Anita

ith 12 years experience, Anita Latin serves as the visionary of Abounding Love Bible Ministry. Anita hosts a weekly prayer cluster joined by men and women in the San Francisco Bay Area and across the United States. She is responsible for in-home bible study, leading weekly prayer meetings and working with women in transition. In August 2014, Anita hosted her first annual women’s conference, entitled “Take Me to the King!” This conference has become an annual spiritual renewal for women of all walks of life. After being inspired by the movie “War Room,” she began a monthly bible study for women in her home. Anita received an A.S. in Secretarial Training from San Francisco City College, a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, a M.Th. from Fuller Theological Seminary and is a Candidate for her D.Min. from the American Baptist Seminary of the West, which she expects to receive in 2020. She is the past musician and chaplain of the California State Baptist Convention Women’s Department. She presently serves as executive pastor of The House of Prayer Everywhere in Oakland, California. She is the proud mother of two adult children - Andre’ R. Cloud, II and Aiesha R. Cloud. In her spare time, Anita enjoys reading, creative writing, dining out, family activities, interior design, graphic design, and serving as a Traci Lynn Fashion Jewelry consultant.

WOMAN OF THE

Latin

Month

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Visionary Abounding Love Bible Ministry What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Being a woman! Although I worked closely in ministry with my father, he would not publicly acknowledge my life call to preach. However, some of his colleagues told me when I was a teenager that if I were a boy, they knew I would be a preacher. Women in the pulpit were simply not accepted in the Baptist church during that era. Sadly, even today there are still pastors in the community where I minister who do not accept women in ministry. What advice would you give your younger self? Stay focused and be true to thine self. Know your value and worth, regardless of the negative chatter that comes at you. The negative that you experience in life is never wasted. Your environment and your experiences help shape you into the person you will become. What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why? My number one choice is the Bible. The answer to every situation you encounter in this life can be found in the living word of God. What is one habit that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? Organization is the one habit and key to my success. I do not function well in a cluttered environment or an environment that lacks peace. When my busy schedule causes me to get behind, once I’ve cleaned and organized my office, I’m good to go. albministry.org P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 15

“Why are you out at a Madonna concert? Shouldn’t you be home with your three kids, lol? ” By Lyss Stern

his comment was posted about a video I had just put up on my social media of me with my friends at the Madame X Tour at BAM. I read it over several times; I didn’t lol. In fact, I was irritated (hence the reason for writing this essay.) Since when do other moms have the right to judge me for needing a little time off? Yes, I have three kids. Does that mean I’m chained to my children and not allowed to enjoy myself ever? In this day and age of female empowerment, are we really mom shaming each other? Motherhood is tough—really tough. I even wrote a book about it called “Motherhood is a B-tch” (working on the TV show) and know how much we women all endure daily. The last thing any of us needs is to feel that our fellow parents are perusing our Facebooks and Instagrams in search of something to criticize. I take pride in the fact that my life is a pretty open book. I’m not going to sugarcoat the fact that I need a glass of wine now and then (okay, maybe more now than then) to help me handle the stress of my daily mom duties (try juggling ballet, baseball practice and the school play, why don’t ya?). Sometimes I sneak away pretending I have a PTA meeting when I’m really just reading a book in Starbucks. I should not feel guilty, especially not for planning a girls’ night out and leaving the hubby home to referee. Yet I find that 16 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

friends as well as strangers love to weigh in with unsolicited commentary. When my daughter was crying in a supermarket checkout line, I started singing loudly to distract her. Apparently my slightly off-key song was more offensive to the woman behind us than my toddler having a meltdown. “Really?” she sniffed. “Really!” I shot back, but then found myself explaining, apologizing and defending myself and my child’s behavior. I’m doing the best I can—we all are—every single day. I screw up big time and often, and I own that fact. Sometimes I order in pizza when I’m too tired to make dinner and let my kids stay up past their bedtimes to watch Saturday Night Live. These things shouldn’t make me a target for bullies bent on “out-moming” each other. Like all bullying, I understand it’s not about me; it’s about them and their need to camouflage insecurities in a shower of snarky remarks. As moms, we are constantly questioning ourselves about whether we’re doing

the right thing. There are so many books, websites and talk shows telling us how to go about our business that it becomes overwhelming at times. That’s when you have to say, “my kids, my rules.” That goes for my Madonna excursion as well. The more relaxed and happy I am, the better mom I can be to my children. I’m also setting a good example for my daughter, showing that moms can work, play, and have a life in addition to their kids. As I watched The Material Mom strutting around on stage, I wished I could have her confidence and ability to not give a crap what other people think. The point is that I’m a good mom, no, a GREAT mom, despite what others have to say. Maybe it’s time we stopped shaming and started supporting each other. Sure (to quote one of my fave Madonna tunes) feel free to “Express Yourself,” but first think about what it’s like to be in that mom’s shoes and cut her some much-deserved slack. www.divamoms.com

Donyshia Boston-Hill D onyshia Boston-Hill, CEO of the Brand Marketing and Digital Agency has been captivating audiences for over 20 years. She started her career in integrated marketing and event production at The New York Knicks, Madison Square Garden College Basketball, 98.7 Kiss FM, HOT 97, 101.9 RXP and The Loud Digital Network. She also produced world renowned concerts including the iconic HOT 97 Summer Jam. Previous broadcast media credits include serving as a TV correspondent and associate producer on The Donna Drake Show - Live it Up, co-host/producer of “The Vera Moore Show,” and radio cohost of 90.3 FM WHPC “Tower Talk” business radio show. Donyshia is a contributing author of four books including “The Fearless Living Experience,” “My Now for the Future Woman,” “The Professional Black Woman,” and “Women on the Rise.” She has laid the groundwork for her own book, set to be released in 2020. Donyshia is a frequent speaker to audiences nationwide, ranging from college campuses and Fortune 500 companies to prestigious conferences, where she shares marketing strategies and solutions. She is a mentor to dozens of women throughout the country, providing one-on-one guidance on entrepreneurship. Donyshia is an alumna of St. John’s University, New York University and the Goldman Sachs 10k Small Business Program.

CEO Brand Marketing and Digital Agency

With a penchant for designing jewelry and decorating, Donyshia has a passion and expertise in event production and produces Le Dîner en Blanc Long Island, the Gold Coast Summer Music and Wine Festival, and Bethpage Polo at the Park. Her hobbies include designing diamond engagement rings for Ice Princess NYC, interior decorating and gardening. She resides in New York with her husband, and two lovely children. DonyshiaBostonHill.com.

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tephanie Tippie is pursuing a lifelong dream. From the time she was 15 years old, Stephanie took great care in her appearance and enjoyed health and beauty facts and tips. She believed that ultimately taking care of oneself from within through proper nutrition and exercise was essential to health and beauty. From extensive travels throughout Central and South America as a sales executive for major blue-chip companies like General Electric, Stephanie acquired a vast knowledge of beauty aids and treatments from Brazil, Peru, Chile, and Colombia through her contacts with some of the top Latin American dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Stephanie won numerous sales awards and recognition, but despite her success, she left it all for her life-long calling, which was to teach people how to “age younger.” She took a bold step from selling medical equipment to selling a lifestyle change. After nearly 20 years of research on skin, skin care products and natural health therapies, Stephanie and her husband David opened the Aging Younger Clinic, a Lauderhill, Florida based alternative healthcare center offering a comprehensive program that helps their clients age younger. She is a certified Reconnective Healing Practitioner, fully endorsing natural alternatives. Currently, Stephanie is a Nature-O-Path and researches alternatives to medical pharmaceuticals. In addition to opening the clinic together, Stephanie and David are the creators of the ‘8 Steps to Aging Younger’ program, which empowers their clients to make better choices for health, hormone balancing, beauty, and longevity. Their extensive research has led to numerous natural alternatives to mainstream medical protocols. These alternatives work by ultimately bringing the body back into balance. The research path has led them to create and formulate many state of the art health and beauty products and protocols that help their clients to Age Younger. It is their belief that without prevention we are all destined to age earlier. Stephanie is the co-host of Aging Younger Radio which can be found at BlogTalkRadio.com/AgingYounger. 18 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Stephanie Tippie Author, Speaker, Nature-O-Path, Radio Host, RRT, Certified Reconnective Healing Practitioner, Advocate for the Elderly and Infirm, Co-founder Aging Younger Clinic

What gave you the motivation to leave your successful career in sales management to open the Aging Younger Clinic? My husband David and I are always on the quest for new and better health and wellness modalities, products and testing methods. We constantly seek out the alternatives to the medical pharmaceutical sickness industry. One day, it dawned on us that we should combine our knowledge and research and bring it to others who are seeking the same alternatives. We then opened our Aging Younger Anti-Aging Clinic in December of 2000. Our clinic is all about natural alternatives that are proven with the science of testing and results-based protocols. We are both Nature-O-Paths (followers of the Laws of Nature) as well as medical researchers, and we are the creators of the ‘8 Steps to Aging Younger’ program, empowering our clients to make better choices for health, hormone balancing, beauty and longevity. How do you and your husband, David, finesse being together both at work and at home? David and I met in June of 1995. My mother was diagnosed with lung cancer and was told she had 6 months to live. Mom passed in October of 1995. David was there to support me during the most difficult period of my life. We became inseparable and married two years later. I will never forget our first trip together. David was bringing me home to meet his family. We were in the Dallas airport waiting for our connecting flight to Austin, when a total stranger appeared out of nowhere and said that he was compelled to come over to us and tell us how “perfect we were together.” How awesome for others to see our soul connection! agingyounger.net/ | www.blogtalkradio.com/agingyounger

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usan Fall founded LaunchIt, after noticing a discrepancy between management within the trucking industry, and the lack of technology being used to better transportation the nation. After graduating from the University of California – Santa Barbara, Susan began working for Qualcomm in 1993. While there, she realized the revolutionary impact of GPS on the trucking industry. She also recognized that there was a lack of public relations for transportation technology startups and

credible guidance for companies in the freight transportation industry. She saw companies struggle and fail, not because their technology products failed, but because they had no way to enter and gain traction in the highly relationship-oriented freight transportation industry. Having found her true calling, in 2000, Susan took her marketing, communications, public relations expertise and industry knowledge and founded LaunchIt Public Relations. Her PR firm focuses on helping freight technol-

Susan Fall How did you get started in your field/industry? I got a job with QUALCOMM in 1993 in their OmniTRACS division which had a product for the trucking industry (truck drivers were technically texting well before you and I were). My first assignment was to explain what GPS was and how it was going to help improve the trucking industry and the truck driver’s job. I started LaunchIt in 2000 and haven’t looked back. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? My biggest challenges typically involve insecure people in power roles. How do you achieve work/life balance? I don’t believe there is such a thing as work/life balance because it’s really never balanced. It’s more like a work/life pendulum. Some days work takes priority and other days it’s family or me or housework or friends.

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ogy companies become leaders in their specific transportation industry segments. In addition to helping these companies gain momentum, Susan’s goal is to bring innovative products into the trucking industry and maintain their relationships with experts in the industry. Currently, Susan has led LaunchIt for almost 20 years. Her passion and dedication to the industry has ensured that the company is recognized as a premier PR firm for some of the most successful technology transportation companies. Susan herself is widely recognized by clients and within the industry as an expert in trucking technology. She is a founding member of the Women in Trucking Association and has served as a board member for Truck Writers of North America, the Professional Truck Driver Institute, Trucker Buddy, a trustee for the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) Scholarship Fund and is an active member of the TCA and American Trucking Associations Communications & Image Policy Committees. In recognition of her amazing career, Susan was awarded “Rigster of the Year” honors in 2016 and 2017 by TCA for her efforts in promoting and increasing membership. She was also was named PR World’s PR Champion 2018 for her tireless efforts in helping to improve the image of the truck driver.

President and Founder LaunchIt What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business? My strategy for growing LaunchIt was to find my niche and become an expert at it. There are very few, if any, people that can say they have been in the field of trucking technology PR for over 25 years. What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? I’d say the one habit that is important for an entrepreneur is the ability to wear many different hats. We are the money managers, the IT department, HR, marketing, etc. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment to me means faith and trust in yourself and in others, being confident yet kind and encouraging yet honest. What advice has helped you succeed in your career? Go for it! That’s the best advice you can give any entrepreneur. www.launchitpr.com

Month

WOMAN OF THE

Harper Greenberg Munro

Owner | M. Holden Supply LLC

arper Greenberg Munro was inspired to start her own business while raising her two sons. She wanted to show her children that a woman has as much drive, determination and power over their destiny as anyone. Harper is the successful owner of M. Holden Supply LLC, a certified Women’s Business Enterprise construction supply company. Located on the South Shore of Long Island, they serve a loyal and growing customer base in New York and its surrounding areas. The company supports its customers’ projects by supplying exclusively for a wide range of manufacturers. Their goal is to help fill a contractual minority quota while keeping the pricing as competitive as possible. Harper earned a B.A. in Business from the Fashion Institute of Technology in 2000. Her responsibilities include overseeing the daily operations of the company, overseeing commercial construction projects, and overseeing contracted jobs throughout New York. Harper is a Certified WBE in New York City and New York State. She is also a Certified WBE with the Port Authorities of New Jersey and New York. She is a member of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and physical activities with her two children including golf, tennis, and swimming.

How did you get started in your field/industry? I was lucky enough to be introduced to a large general contractor over 10 years ago. I started as the owner’s assistant, which exposed me to many aspects of the construction industry. He then asked me to pull permits, head sales and run the social network for a new asphalt plant. This gave me a chance to create and maintain a large client base in the New York area. Making the decision to leave after many years my boss said to me “If you are going to leave, you should look into becoming a WBE.” I followed his advice. www.mholdensupply.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 21

Dr. Kelly Mattone

Cosmetic Physician Aesthetic Medical Studio Where Science Creates Beauty

r. Kelly Mattone graduated summa cum laude from California State University at Los Angeles in 1985. She served as a Gross Anatomy teaching assistant for three years while earning her medical degree at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. After completing a residency and serving as chief resident in physical medicine, Dr. Mattone continued at Mount Sinai Hospital as an attending physician, clinical residency instructor, and associate professor of Gross Anatomy, teaching at the very medical school she attended. She continues to teach in formal and informal settings, after 30 years. With a board certification in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Dr. Mattone sub-specialized in Spine and Sports Medicine Rehab and built a very successful career that included NY Jet football players. In 1999, when the times and technology collided, Dr. Mattone transformed the scope of her practice from therapeutic to aesthetic in order to meet her patients growing demands for anti-aging solutions and clean living advice. Innovative modern aesthetic applications of ultrasound injections and electricity conferred a current twist to decades’ old therapeutic technology and put Dr. Mattone on the cutting edge of non-surgical cosmetic medicine. Her unique artistic inside-out approach to beauty allows her to consistently exceed her patients’ expectations to look better and feel younger naturally, without surgery or downtime. She was recently voted as Best Botox Practice and Best Med Spa on Long Island. At Aesthetic Medical Studio where “Science Creates Beauty,” Dr. Mattone was the first non-core physician in the U.S. to own and provide FDA cleared Ultherapy to non-surgically lift her patients’ faces. Her proficiency and passion with Ultherapy led her to become a national speaker, consultant and educator for Ultherapy, Merz Aesthetics. She has the same distinct expertise with FDA approved CoolSculpting® which gives her patients a non-surgical solution to permanent fat reduction, body slimming, shaping and sculpting in just the right places. Her sophisticated aesthetic vision is a refined yet modern 22 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

point of view which has earned her national and international awards and recognition by both her patients and peers. Dr. Mattone’s skillful and artistic injections of Botox and dermal fillers have her patients praising her as a “sculptress, magician, and artist.” You can trust Dr Mattone’s honest expert opinion and sage advice; they are based on the culmination of 30 years of astute medical skills, expert anatomy training and teaching and inherent natural artistic ability. She is passionate about sharing her wealth of knowledge on preventive aging through the daily use of a patented liquid collagen/HA matrix nutracosmetic that is clinically proven to erase wrinkles from the inside out and restore joint health. Dr. Mattone is a huge advocate for daily sunscreen use and professional strength skin care products of which her own line, OMD Physician SkinCare, is available at Aesthetic Medical Studio. Capitalizing on her core strengths, talents and assets, Dr. Mattone has distinguished herself in the health beauty and fitness industry as a respected medical expert, guest

speaker, contributing writer, guest beauty editor, medical correspondent and spokeswoman on local and national stages. She has been featured in More Magazine, Woodbury Magazine and has appeared on syndicated television, radio talk shows, “The Today Show,” PIX 11 News as well as Bravo, E! Entertainment, ESPN and MSG. She is the medical expert on national infomercials for clients such as Kate Somerville Skin Care, Bare Escentual Bare Mineral Make-Up, and John Basedow’s Fitness Made Simple. In 2017, Dr. Mattone was appointed to the prestigious Scientific Advisory Board of Modere North America, a global $300 million U.S. based “Live Clean” company dedicated to bringing chemical free, cruelty free personal care, nutrition, beauty and household products to the world for over 30 years. She speaks and trains on national and international stages in front of thousands of people with live broadcasts to tens of thousands. Dr. Mattone specifically and personally endorses Modere’s multi-patented international award-winning liquid collagen/HA matrix nutracosmetic. She was recently seen promoting the international product launch of Modere’s What motivated you to transform the scope of your medical practice from therapeutic to aesthetic? In 1999 after the birth of my 4th child I retired from my sports practice to raise my babies. Cosmetic medicine such as Botox and collagen was just emerging. Suddenly technology caught up with the times, and it collided with decades old therapeutic techniques I used on my sports patients. New innovative, modern aesthetic applications of ultrasound, electricity and injections were now pioneering cutting edge non-surgical cosmetic treatments that patients were demanding in their fight against aging. I reinvented myself as a cosmetic physician, came out of retirement and opened Aesthetic Medical Studio, Where Science Creates Beauty in Great Neck, New York nearly 20 years ago. With your cutting edge studio and OMD Physician SkinCare products, what is next for you? I’m thrilled to be back in the exciting world of product endorsements; it’s been over a decade. I just

new skin care line, The CellProof Essential Collection, on Facebook Live to 50 thousand views. Dr. Mattone mentors young women in medicine and is an advisory board member at the Center for the Women of New York and the Navel Health Expo. She sits on the board of directors of Angels on the Bay, a private charity organization of St. Mary’s Children Hospital of Bayside that has raised millions of dollars for children in community hospitals in her hometown. In 2013, she became a volunteer flight doctor/copilot for Angel Flights, a volunteer organization of pilots with small planes who provide private air transport for sick children to out-of-state medical treatment facilities. This privilege satisfies her need for service and her love of flying. Dr. Mattone is an over-50 model and mother of 4 children who are athletes, models and scholars. As an accomplished collegiate athlete herself, Dr. Mattone keeps fit by keeping up with her kids. To that end, she transformed her formal living room into an indoor NCAA half court regulation basketball court.

had my first international speaking engagement and product launch in Japan! I am very selective and strict about using my credentials to back only science-based, clinically proven, chemical free, cruelty free products. You are an accomplished collegiate athlete who transformed her formal living room into an indoor NCAA half court regulation basketball court. Is this how you stay fit and recharge from your busy career? I designed and built that basketball court for my three boys who had

aspirations to play college ball. While I prefer to play tennis and ice skate, playing ball with my four kids everyday inside our own house was a fabulous way to shut off the electronic world and incorporate family time with fun, stress-relieving exercise, even in the middle of a hurricane. Is there a quote that motivates you? “Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men.” I’ve worked since I’m 9 years old, nothing was ever given to me, and it wasn’t because we couldn’t afford it, which we couldn’t; I remember being horrified when my mother balanced the monthly check book and we had $7 dollars left over. I was taught the value of something is a testament to how strong you are willing to be to attain it. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is a higher understanding of self. I believe God’s plan for us is to know who we are and what we want in life. www.aesthetic-associates.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 23

Women

OF THE MONTH

Owner | Bella Michelle Village

Boni Ray Chaney

s the Owner of Bella Michelle Village, Boni Ray Chaney is a skincare therapist, educator, and product developer. With over 35 years experience, Boni is responsible for the overall operations of the shop, developing and selling skincare products, training and educating the staff, and ensuring that their clients are well educated about the esthetic products and services offered. An experienced cosmetologist, skincare specialist and esthetician herself, Boni performs facials, permanent eyeliner and micro-blading services. She received a B.A. from U.C.L.A. in 1967, earned a Masters in Aesthetics and finished a four-year apprenticeship in Plastic Surgery. Boni also took numerous post graduate courses to keep

on the cutting edge of the skincare industry and encourages her staff to do so as well. She is very confident in her ability to provide her clients with the best possible solutions to achieve their anti-aging goals. Boni believes that every woman deserves to look, feel and be their best through every phase of her life’s journey. Boni is a member of the A.A.M. and S.P.C.P. In her spare time, she enjoys photography and bicycling. www.lovebellamichelle.com

Susan L. Spahn

Writer

in business, writing and publishing. Her book, “Never Give Up,” is about what she and her family went through as a result of her brother becoming a quadriplegic at the age of 12 after breaking his neck while diving into a lake. Fortunately, her brother walked out of the hospital after four and a half months, despite having been told by doctors that he would never retired Postmaster, Susan L. walk again! As a result of this experience, Spahn is currently a non-fiction Susan wrote her book with the hope of author with 11 years experience. helping other children and families and to To date she has self-published one book share her brother’s inspiring story. and has two in progress. Susan is very pasAlthough it took Susan eight years to sionate about writing and publishing. She write and publish her book, the results attended several colleges taking courses

Carrie E. Gallant

arrie E. Gallant inspires and empowers women to think bigger, negotiate more powerfully and step up into greater influence and impact. She is president of Gallant Solutions Inc., and founder of The Gallant Leader™ Institute and the EARN Your Worth™ Leaders Lab. A dynamic speaker, facilitator and pay equity advocate, Carrie brings her experience as an executive, former practicing lawyer and adjunct law professor to her work in helping clients master the art and science of negotiation, and influence and develop their authentic leadership. As a negotiation consultant with ENS International, Carrie provides strategic consulting for client negotiation teams and skills training workshops. She has

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worked globally with companies in digital media, mining and resource sectors, aerospace technology, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, healthcare and food packaging industries, as well as federal and provincial or state governments. Carrie earned her J.D. from Queens University, Canada. She completed her core coach training with the Adler in Toronto in 2001, and executive career coach specialty training with Career Coach Institute in 2006. She is certified in Conversational Intelligence® and is a certified facilitator of

were well worth the effort. She has won three awards including one from the B.R.A.G (Book Reader’s Appreciation Group), the Indie Excellence Book Award and the Beverly Hills Book Award. Susan volunteers for the Naples Therapeutic Riding Center which helps the disabled. She knits and crochets afghans for veterans and donates them to the Veteran’s Administration Hospital. She also makes baby blankets for newborns and donates them to numerous hospitals in the Madison, Wisconsin area. Susan enjoys walking and playing with her two dogs. bluewolfpublishing.com

Owner and Coach | Gallant Solutions Inc. Authentic Leadership for Teams™ and Authentic Leadership Conversations™. In her spare time, Carrie enjoys being outdoors, hiking, mountain biking, and practicing improv. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Some of my biggest challenges have been moving across the country to pursue an opportunity, starting my own business, taking leadership over a large team as a first-time leader, and discovering that my starting salary was $8,000 less than the man hired at the same time and successfully negotiating a retroactive adjustment. www.gallantleader.com

Phyllis G. Hayes

hyllis G. Hayes is a supervisor of distribution operations with the United States Postal Service. She is responsible for overseeing the daily operations and supervising 36 employees. She is also a motivational speaker. Phyllis served as a chief air traffic controller with the U.S. Navy for 24 years , proudly working with the Blue Angels. She earned an A.S. in Industrial Engineering from Nashville State Technical Institute, a B.S. in Professional Aeronautics, and a M.A.S in Aerospace Systems and Safety from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. She earned her second B.S. in Airport Management from

Supervisor Distribution Operations | United States Postal Service Tennessee State University, where she taught aviation classes as an adjunct professor. Phyllis earned her Master Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma through Villanova University and is currently a doctoral student studying Leadership in Higher Education at Tennessee State University. Her mentors are Dr. Robbie K. Melton and Dr. Jewell Winn. As an experienced leader, Phyllis is skilled in research, mathematics, English, Microsoft Office and time management. She is a member of the African American Postal League for Success and enjoys travel. What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your field?

Trina K. Gurrobat

rina K. Gurrobat is a premier account manager with TPx Communications, a managed services provider delivering unified communications, managed IT, and network connectivity services. Trina has 19 years experience and is responsible for managing and maintaining the relationship with the company’s enterprise and national businesses. She ensures that they are providing fully managed services that include network security, cloud-based solutions, unified communications, and network integrity. Trina specializes in negotiating, solution consulting, and advising clients internationally. She attended college. She is a two-time President Club Honoree. In her spare time, she enjoys travel, hula dancing, and cooking.

Premier Account Manager | TPx Communications

How did you get started in your field/industry? I started in this industry back in 2000 as a retail sales consultant for Verizon at their Phonemart stores. I never thought sales would be something I would be good at, but it turns out I was really good. I talk with and listen to the needs of the customers and find the right solution for them. I started in residential sales and continued to advance my career into the business sales side, where I am now a national premier account manager working with large nationwide businesses. What are some of the biggest challenges/ obstacles you faced in your career?

April-Star R. Frey-Smith

pril-Star R. Frey-Smith is a volunteer paraeducator with the Apple Valley Unified School District. In this role, April-Star assists classroom teachers and helps educate students in grades K-8. Currently, she is a candidate for her B.A. in Education and Christian Education K-8 with the Grand Canyon University. AprilStar is the vice president of the P.T.S.O. and is a member of the African-American Parent Advisory Council. In her spare time, she enjoys singing, dancing, football, skating, and painting with children. How did you get started in your field/industry? I got into warehousing and manufacturing accidently. I was looking for a job and a friend of mine helped me get a job with the company they were working for. Once on the job I

As a black female in a predominately male field, the military was a challenge. I had to strategize for inclusion and equality. I contribute my successful military career to the women who mentored me. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Working in a man’s world, equal rights, and equal pay for women. We shuffle marriage, family and success in pursuit of our goals. There are no shortcuts to success; it comes from within. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Helping others find their strengths. Smiles hide our experiences and shame prevents us from telling our stories. Telling our stories releases the burdens of life which opens doors for us to receive the blessings meant for us.

Being a single parent and trying to advance my career has been my biggest obstacle. Balancing that and maintaining my position was often very challenging. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? The industry of IT sales reps, engineers, and techs is predominately male-driven. Many clients find that women are not strong suited or tech savvy in this field. One of the other challenges is pay inequality. Women don’t get compensated as well as men do but we are starting to see that trend change. www.tpx.com

Paraeducator | Apple Valley Unified School District learned quickly and picked up on the many warehouse functions. I realized that I had an affinity for leadership and organization. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? One of the biggest challenges I have faced in warehousing and manufacturing is employee engagement and enthusiasm as many employees are unhappy with the culture of the working environment. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Inclusion and the right to “sit at the table” in making some of our toughest economical decisions as well as the opportunity to contribute creative solutions. www.avusd.org

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 25

Staci L. Wells

taci L. Wells dreamed of owning her own boutique ever since she graduated with her B.S. from Purdue University in 1986. Making her dreams a reality, she is currently the co-owner and CEO of Zen BooTique, an e-commerce website selling comfortable women’s clothing. The boutique’s fashions and accessories are intended to be classy, sophisticated and stylish for all facets of the mind, body and spirit. Staci has ten years of women’s fashion experience along with an extensive knowledge of merchandising. She developed a concierge style of customer service and is consummate at the art of personal styling. She is responsible for the daily operations of the website, ordering clothes and ensuring everything is shipped out in a timely manner. Staci is a member of U.S.B.G. In her spare time, she

Co-owner and CEO | Zen BooTique enjoys golf and travel. Her pug, Boo, is featured on the website and serves as their mascot. A portion of all sales is donated to the Pug Club of America Rescue Fund. How did you get started in your field/industry? I have always dreamed of owning a boutique since college. In March of 2018 I saw an opportunity to buy an existing online boutique and began to develop my vision. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Knowledge has always been a huge challenge. You have to research and try ideas that may or may not work. I trust my instincts to make choices based on that knowledge and learn from those choices. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Women are constantly juggling family, career and self-care. We need to establish priorities and set boundaries and goals to find a balance that works. zenbootique.com

Belle Ross

fter flying the friendly skies as a flight attendant for almost ten years internationally, Belle Ross decided to open a daycare center so she could be a hands-on mom to her own kids and to improve the quality of childcare in her area in 1999. She used her flight experience where she learned different languages and cultural differences by welcoming a diverse group of families into her daycare center. Belle started a project called “Share Your Blessing Annual Event,” which is annual fundraiser that donates to a recipient of their choice. She was featured in an article in the Contra Costa Times regarding her philanthropic deeds.

Leslie S. Taylor

eslie S. Taylor is a referral partner with Send Out Cards, which is a tool to show customers appreciation and to make connections through personalized messages through regular “snail mail.” It enables clients to send a card from their computer or cell phone within minutes. The service can be used to assist with fundraisers, club activities, business notifications, personal thank you cards, birthday and condolence cards and everyday holidays. Leslie provides an easy way for customers to stay in touch with business clients, family and friends. Leslie and her husband have been in the industry for the past two years. She is responsible for educating individuals and companies on the benefits of relationship marketing using cards. She earned a B.A.

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Director | ABC Learning Center First Five of Contra Costa also chose her as one of their featured Success Stories in their magazine. Belle was invited to be a guest on a local radio station’s program called Childhood Matters, along with others, to do a live call interview on the topic of potty training. Belle was also invited by Coco Kids, a nonprofit organization, as one of their guest workshop hosts in a recent annual conference. Understanding that many parents have different work hours, Belle is flexible in accommodating families with varied schedules and needs. She opens her center on evenings, weekends and holidays as

needed. Having a soft spot for children with special needs, Belle also studied inclusion and helps children with autism, cerebral palsy, speech delay, and ADHD. Belle earned her B.A. in Mass Communications from St. Paul’s College of the Philippines and received a degree in Early Childhood Education from Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, California. She is a member of N.A.E.Y.C., U.D.W. and Child Care Providers United. Belle also trained to become a music teacher through Music Together Worldwide. She enjoys catering on the side, writing and composing songs. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Continuous lack of women in power. Women shouldn’t be held back. Referral Partner | Send Out Cards

in Dance, Secondary Education and English from the University of North Texas in 1998. Previously, Leslie served in many industries including retail, restaurant, banking, and clerking. She has a background in English composition and dance. Leslie belongs to the Lions Club and is dedicated to animal rescue. She enjoys travel, photography, festivals, shows, dancing and dining out. How did you get started in your field or industry? I was already in direct sales when I was introduced to Send Out Cards. It complements existing businesses to keep customers, clients, friends and family top of mind. It was a good fit and gives that

personal touch in your mailbox. What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in your career? Breaking out of my comfort zone. You have to get past that and open yourself up to different experiences to help you grow as an individual and in your business. Reading is important; there is a lot of material. It’s about finding what is relevant to you. What does the word empowerment mean to you? It means being well grounded, having confidence, a sense of self with a strong foundation and knowing your strengths. www.alignable.com/spring-tx/send-out-cards

Owner and Contractor | J.L. Hartley, Inc.

ith over 30 years experience in the construction industry, Jami L. Hartley is the owner of J.L. Hartley, Inc. which is a construction/ building company specializing in highway construction. As a contractor and Certified Flagger, Jami is responsible for all of

the daily operations. She works with the government regarding local road work and landscaping projects and specializes in special pipe cleaning. Jami oversees the administration and purchase orders as well. She belongs to the D.B.E. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, fishing, boating and travel.

Shirley Duncan-Pratt

hirley DuncanPratt is the pastor of Twining Vines Outreach Ministry. In this capacity, Shirley is responsible for providing assistance and support services to all, as well as empowering others. She emphasizes the importance of community outreach and helping those in need. In her spare time, Shirley enjoys crafting, sewing, painting, and gardening. She consistently uses her income made from her crafting endeavors to support her ministry; no tithes or offerings are received as compensation for her ministry services.

lyse Swedberg is a chief pilot and captain with Frontier Airlines. In this role, Elyse pilots an airbus for the airline. Elyse earned her B.A. cum laude from Ashford University, her C.F.I. and C.F.I.I. from Pinnacle Aviation Academy, and her M.E.I. from Pinnacle Aviation Academy. Elyse is a member of Women in Aviation. In her spare time, she enjoys travel and cooking. How did you get started in your field/ industry? I started my flying career after the passing of my fiancé in 2005. With the help of his family and mine, I was able to go to flight school, where I received seven different flight ratings. Those ratings enabled me to flight instruct until I had enough hours to move to the regional airlines. I was hired by Trans States Airlines

Pastor | Twining Vines Outreach Ministry

How did you get started in your field/ industry? I had been given a life-altering diagnosis just one day after my employer informed me that my job title was being eliminated. At home I asked God, “What am I supposed to do now?” The unmistakable answer was “Become a minister.” What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? The biggest challenge is not being taken seriously by some of the more experienced pastors. Being held to a higher standard than others, I am also asked why I don’t have a church building. My reply is that God did not call me to have a brick and mortar church building. He called me to be a minister.

Elyse Swedberg

Month

WOMEN OF THE

Jami L. Hartley

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Women face double-standards, overwork and abuse. They are afraid to speak up at work and they are hesitant to ask for help. They face all manners of abuse from significant others or husbands. Even strangers harm women for no reason other than evil intent. What does the word empowerment mean to you? To me, empowerment means being emboldened, enabled, and qualified. Ephesians 3:20 says it best: “…he (she) who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” An empowered woman refuses to give up and persists, through hardship and obstacles.

Chief Pilot and Captain | Frontier Airlines in 2012. I flew an Embraer 145, a 50-seat jet for United Express and spent a little over two years at TSA before getting my dream job with Frontier Airlines flying the Airbus A320 family of aircraft in 2014. I spent three years as a first officer before being awarded captain. Shortly after my

promotion, I was hired as one of the two Frontier Airlines Denver Base chief pilots. Denver is Frontier’s largest base and I have responsibility for 600 pilots. What are some of the biggest challenges/ obstacles you faced in your career? There have been many challenges along the way. The first was learning to become a math/science person. All through high school and college, I fell into the English/History category. I had to spend a lot of extra time in flight school trying to retrain my brain to become more math and science-oriented. As I have progressed through my career, the next hurdle I had to overcome was being a woman in a man’s world. Less than 5% of all airline transport pilots are female, and of that 5%, only about 2,000 are captains. www.flyfrontier.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 27

Women

OF THE MONTH

Therese M. Cleary

Channel Director | Peerless-AV

ith over 35 years experience, Therese M. Cleary is a channel director with Peerless-AV, a leading designer and manufacturer of audio-visual solutions. Therese is responsible for overseeing a team and working with those in distribution on an international level. She specializes in account management, training, marketing, customer relations and distribution efforts. She is a member of Women of Digital Signage, W.O.T.C. and A.V.I.X.A. In her spare time Therese enjoys baseball, wine, travel and spending quality time with her family. peerless-av.com

Regina B. Castro

egina B. Castro is a sales manager at Mattress Firm. With five years experience, she is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the store, selling mattresses, staff supervision and training. Regina is skilled in Microsoft Word, sales, communications, teamwork and leadership. She earned a B.A. in Marketing from the University of Texas- San Antonio in 2015. She is a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi Fraternity and The Salvation Army. In her spare time, Regina enjoys playing softball. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

After college I wanted a career to build from and retail was that source for me. In retail there are so many different aspects of opportunity to learn from- the marketing, sales, business management, and communication. Sales was the road for me, because if I can convince you to buy something, then I can definitely convince you that I am the best candidate for the job. What are some of the biggest challenges/ obstacles you faced in your career? The biggest challenge is being a chameleon to every personality you meet and manage. Being able to find the common ground can be hard.

Sarah K. Terrible

arah K. Terrible is a rehab manager and occupational therapist with COG Restore which provides outpatient care for patients experiencing orthopedic conditions. With eight years experience, Sarah is responsible for managing rehabilitation care, patient care, providing administrative duties, and overseeing the rehabilitation services, staff, and community outreach for St. Thomas and St. Croix. She earned her M.O.T. from Temple University in 2011 and is a member of A.O.T.A. and N.B.C.O.T. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys spending time at the beach, snorkeling, tennis and family activities. How did you get started in your field/ industry? I first was exposed to therapy/rehab services through my sister Jennifer who

28 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Sales Manager | Mattress Firm What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Challenges women face are being able to lead a team without emotions. Many see the characteristic of nurturing that women are known for as a weakness in the workforce. They feel that it prevents them from leading and being able to handle a tough situation, or even saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;No.â&#x20AC;? What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means courage, ambition, and determination. You need to have the will to not give up when it gets hard. You need the ambition that drives you to be even better and not turn away. Courage is the ability to put yourself out there to be heard. www.mattressfirm.com

Rehab Manager/Occupational Therapist | COG Restore

had Trisomy 13. In spite of her not being able to see, hear, walk, or talk, she was able to live much more independently and with a significant improvement in her quality of life through physical and occupational therapy. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Finding therapists to stay and live in the Virgin Islands long term has been a challenge. Clients benefit from seeing a familiar face when they come for therapy services. Regular turnover is challenging for our company and for patients. Stressing patient compliance/accountability with their home exercises can also be very challenging in any therapy setting and location.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? I feel like women still have to show and prove their abilities more so than men, even in 2019. Women have to advocate for themselves for equal financial compensation. I think we bring a lot to the table with our keen sense of awareness and intuition. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means leading by example and motivating others to be their best selves. It means holding yourself as well as others accountable. cogvi.com

Charlotte (Char) L. Murphy

harlotte (Char) L. Murphy is an attorney, four-time breast cancer survivor, inspirational author, speaker, entrepreneur and the founder of BelieveInspire. Char earned dual B.A. degrees in Psychology and English and later her Juris Doctorate. As a single mother, she went to law school at the age of 32. After running her law firm for 15 years, Char became ill with cancer and lost everything. This led to years of serious depression where she felt she had lost her entire identity. The upside is that it led to Char’s current career. Her life’s passion and purpose are to use her life experiences of survival and re-creating herself to inspire and em-

Suzie Dault

Terri L. Hubert

power others through her books and speaking. Char is a teacher and coach by nature. She writes inspirational blogs published on her website, Believeinspire.us. Char consults professionally and is a “Wisdom Whisperer” for women. In addition to her inspiring speaking engagements and authoring, Char is a contributor to many nonprofits. She is a member of The Arkansas Bar Association and The Susan G. Komen Foundation. She co-authored the book “Power Up, Super Women” and is currently working on a new book series.

CEO, CDA, RDAEF, OMSAA, BS

uzie Dault is the founder of Dental Specialties Institute, Inc. which has been open for the past 20 years. She received a B.S. in Career and Technical Studies from California State University with honors. She has been involved in aiding the state of California standard setting for her profession. Suzie worked for over 30 years in the dental field as a CDA, RDAEF, and OMSAA before retiring chairside to dedicate her energy and passion to educating the next generation. She has provided the highest quality and one of the most comprehensive dental assisting certification programs in the area. She oversees the daily operations, trains and supervises faculty and instructors, creates curriculum, pro-

erri L. Hubert is a paralegal with Paralegal Services. With over 20 years experience, she specializes in family law, conducting research, educating her clients and working with child protective services. Terri earned an A.A. in Foreign Language and Sign Language from Sacramento City College. She became a paralegal as a result of her daughter being removed by Child Protective Services due to having a bruise on her arm. In her spare time, Terri enjoys knitting and spending time with her family. What are some of the challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? I overcame bad law practices, corrupt

Author, Speaker | BelieveInspire Her most proud moments were when she first became a grandmother; was named Best Lawyer in Central Arkansas; and was featured in an article, “Best of the Best in Arkansas.” In her spare time, she enjoys fishing, painting, photography, travel, and animal rescue. What advice would you give your younger self? Don’t let what other people think about you bother you. Stand firm in your inner power and knowing who you are. Be authentic, believe in yourself and never give up! Live your passions and dreams. Life is short. Believeinspire.us

Founder and CEO | Dental Specialties Institute, Inc.

vides continuing education and is responsible for licensing dental auxiliaries. Suzie has numerous publications related to curriculum and dentistry. Among her numerous awards, Suzie is very proud to have received the Jose Business Hall of Fame award for seven consecutive years; Best of San Jose Award 2009-2018; and was voted 2015 Best of Silicon Valley in the Educational Services - Dental Professionals category by the San Jose Award Program. She enjoys working with her students to give them the feeling of accomplishment that they have always wanted. Suzie has a special interest in cosmetic and restorative dentistry and enjoys attending continuing education

courses with her husband Scott, who is a periodontist. Suzie’s professional affiliations include the Santa Clara and Monterey Bay Dental Society, California Dental Association, CALSae-California Society of Association Executives, Dental Assisting National Board, the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Outside of school, Suzie enjoys spending time with her family. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Balancing a career and having a family. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Being in control of your words and actions. Feeling rewarded and accomplished and knowing you have choices is empowering. www.dental-specialties.com

Independent Contractor Paralegal | Paralegal Services politics, faced a system that has no checks and balances and found out my child made the “quota” so the county could receive up to 90 million dollars a year by placing her in foster care. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? As a paralegal and a woman, I had to learn how to psychologically break down my opponents by using their own laws, rules and regulations against them, telling the truth on paper and getting evidence documented in case files. Child Protective Services uses laws that have been repealed for years against you. I had to learn to defend myself against a law that didn’t apply. Research is my weapon. Going to

court without an attorney, you must have the rules of court for the county you’re in, you must read your state and federal laws which concern your case, make sure that they do not conflict, let your paperwork do the talking, all with exculpatory evidence and bring the big boys down to their knees. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Education. Anybody under the age of 40 who has never had Civics in school doesn’t know their constitutional rights. They have no idea about the Bill of Rights. My interpretation of empowerment is to educate. Educate yourself, and educate someone else.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 29

TRIPI’S

Travel Agent | ProTravel International

Travel Tips

SANDALS GRENADA Grenada is great for couples.

ICELAND

is great for singles, couples and families

SANDALS BARBADOS

Barbados is great for couples.

ON WHERE TO VACATION

oAnn Tripi is a travel agent with ProTravel Inc. She has been in the travel industry for over 30 years and has extensive experience in luxury travel, cruises, honeymoons and adventure holidays. She combines her many years of experience in the travel and tourism industries with firsthand knowledge of some of the world’s most exciting and exclusive destinations to create tour packages and itineraries that are designed to be unique and exciting. JoAnn states that making someone’s trip unforgettable is her utmost priority. Offering a level of customer service that is unrivaled, she is always as excited about her clients as she is about creating a unique travel experience for them. JoAnn is part of Virtuoso, which allows her to provide amenities and upgrades to her clients. She is a member of IATA. JoAnn majored in Business at CW Post Campus of Long Island University. email-www.protravelinc.com Joann.Tripi@protravelinc.com

AUSTRALIA is great

for a family vacation.

30 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

PERU

Peru is great for singles, travelers, couples and families.

It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter where you live or where you want to travel, Tripi will book your best trip ever!

TURKS AND CAICOS

The best family resorts can be found at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 31

Katherine Sempecos

Entrepreneur, Celebrity Aesthetician and Clinical Laser Expert PRISM Med Spa

atherine Sempecos is a licensed European aesthetician, medical laser technician and official laser HR/SR trainer with over 20 years experience. She has concentrated her entire career on bringing the newest, most innovative and effective aging well treatments and products from Europe to the U.S. market. Having acquired her B.A. at the University of Southern Florida, she has owned and operated over ten distribution companies, specializing in the latest anti-aging technologies. She has treated the cast of the RHONJ for the past three years. Previously, she owned two anti-aging clinics in Europe. Currently, Katherine is the co-owner and operator of PRISM Med Spa in Roslyn, New York, and previous owner of Posche Prism Med Spa in New Jersey. PRISM has been voted “Best Spa on the North Shore” 2015 – 2018. Katherine has formed companies that specialized in the exclusive representations of proprietary anti-aging services, products, medical devices and technologies. Exclusive to PRISM Med Spa, clients can experience the New Plasmalite “FPL” skin rejuvenation and skin tightening technology, as well as Prism’s exclusive line of specialized European anti-aging treatments called “Skin Boosters” and “Elements” by Juliette Armand. These products offer a long list of specialized facial and body treatments, as well as professional products for home use. Additionally, both spa locations have the latest in laser SR, HR and RF skin resurfacing, skin tightening, body sculpting and fat melting technologies. They also offer the latest in concierge “Aging Well” medicine through the IGS (Integrative Genetic Solutions) DNA and blood chemistry analysis program.

What first attracted you to the field of aesthetics? In my teens, I experienced very bad cystic acne. When the acne finally subsided, I was left with embarrassing deep scars all over my face. Desperate for a solution, I dedicated the next few years to studying any new treatments and technologies that could help improve my skin’s condition. I became the first Retinol distributor in Southern Europe. This launched my career in aesthetics. Five years later, I managed to build an entirely new Retinol product line and distributed it throughout Southern Europe, via online, direct and retail pharmacy sales. This success led me to becoming the exclusive distributorship for “Plasmalite FPL.” How important is regularly using specialized facial and body treatments to combat aging? It is very important to use specialized treatments for our self-care. With all these new non-surgical solutions for face and body treatments, it has never been easier. As an entrepreneur who owned and operated several companies and clinics, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do? I have always tried to be on the cutting edge of all innovative technologies, diagnostics, as well as anti-aging treatments.

32 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Investing your company’s resources and assets and discovering and launching new ideas has always helped me to remain at the top of my field. I constantly re-educate, train and gain new certifications for myself and my staff. I believe that by staying excited, enthusiastic and hungry for what you do, you can ensure great success. Describe one outstanding quality that you feel people should know about you or that you want to be remembered by? I’m extremely passionate about what I do, and I truly care about my clients. Showing that you care about their well-being, while motivating them to change, helps them to reach their true potential. This builds customer loyalty, ensures repeat business and inevitably creates a much tighter bond. Most of my clients consider me their friend. That is my greatest accomplishment. What’s next for you and Prism Spa? We are launching new PRISM Wellness Retreats in Greece, set to launch in 2020, featuring all the latest anti-aging treatments in the most idyllic settings. www.prismmedspa.com

Barbara Morris A

Pharmacist, Advocate and Author

t the ‘young’ age of 90, Barbara Morris is a registered pharmacist, writer and ageless advocate for lifelong balanced non-traditional growth and productivity. She believes that attitudes regarding aging and old people are out-of-date traditions and constantly pushes the boundaries of what others think is a retired lifestyle. Barbara believes that many of these outdated concepts of ageism contribute to age related decline, when actually, age and decline are not necessarily synonymous. Barbara publishes the monthly online anti-aging Put Old on Hold Journal and has written 6 books to date on how to manage the aging process. They include “The New Put Old on Hold,” “No More Little Old Ladies,” “I Don’t Wanna Be My Mother,” “I’m Not Goin’ There,” and “The Expert’s Guide To Strut Your Stuff.” “The New Put Old on Hold” is her latest book. They are all available on Amazon.com. Recently, Barbara acquired her real estate license which fits her belief that we are never too old to learn, grow and be productive. In her spare time, Barbara enjoys writing, looking for a younger man to date, spending time with her family and her rescued Corgi. As a nonagenarian having experienced the evolution of technology, what do you feel are the biggest advantages and disadvantages of where technology has led us to date? I love the new technology. I’ve always loved computers, publishing my newsletter online and building my websites. Advantages are outstanding for communication. It’s a disadvantage for those who have not kept up. What do you feel have been the most positive advances our country has made on behalf of women and why? Women can be everything they want to be. As a pharmacist I grew up in a man’s world with few role models. Now pharmacy has become a woman’s world. Advances have made “choice” possible for those who want it. If you could bring one fashion trend back, what would you like to see revisited? More modesty. We see almost entire breasts and almost unclad behinds. Soon we shall be walking

around naked. “Casual Friday” has morphed into “Casual Everyday” and holes in jeans are “fashion.” What happened to elegance? As an advocate against ageism, please describe a situation where you fought and triumphed. In the hospital with a fractured kneecap, nurses and doctors ignored me and spoke to my daughter about my injury. I informed them I was not senile and could answer their questions and follow their instructions. How do you decide what to write in your monthly online anti-aging journal? I write about what concerns me at that moment. My intention is always to help women avoid premature mental and physical decline. It’s an uphill battle and I will fight it until the bitter end. With dementia and Alzheimer’s plaguing the elderly today, what do you suggest as a way of keeping mentally acute? “Use it or lose it.” We have to

think complex thoughts and engage in physical activity regardless of age. Traditional leisure-oriented retirement turns hapless retirees into mindless fun-seeking zombies who don’t realize how quickly they are deteriorating. What causes “old age” decline more than anything else? Along with the passage of the Social Security Act in the 1930s, a well-defined leisure-oriented mindset and lifestyle has developed that most people opt into at “retirement” which leads to inevitable decline. The human mind and body are not designed to “retire.” We are made for work. If we avoid the traditional retirement mindset and lifestyle, we can have a second life that is amazing. Caveat: It takes effort because the human mind and body prefer leisure over effort. Few are willing or able to make the effort, because so few are doing it. www.BarbaraMorris.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 33

Photos by Spartan

Carola Jain Chief Marketing Officer Spartan Race Inc.

arola Jain oversees marketing and brand strategy at Spartan Race Inc., the leading obstacle course racing company. She is the co-lead behind the global launch of Spartan Women, a female focused platform connecting women in sports and girls from all over the world by promoting camaraderie and empowerment. The community platform has been designed to cross borders, defy stereotypes and share the inspiring stories of women who overcome the challenges of everyday life. Prior to joining Spartan, Carola spent over 16 years at Interbrand. In her last role as senior director, she led brand strategy and analytics in the financial services and nonprofit practice, as well as oversaw Interbrand’s top 100 ‘Best Global Brands Study.’ Carola’s marketing track record includes the successful leadership and management of global brand teams across multi-disciplinary engagements. These include the launch of integrated marketing campaigns, extensive internal brand and organizational culture change programs as well as running large scale brand strategy, brand valuation, customer insights, analytics and brand architecture programs for clients such as American Express, Accenture, Apollo Management, AARP, Credit Suisse, Citigroup, DuPont, GE, JPMorganChase, Intel, L’Oreal, SAP, PBS, and Thomson Reuters. Having lived in four countries and traveled extensively, Carola is sensitive to the many cultural nuances that brands need to navigate in order to create compelling brand stories that are both universal and impactful. She serves on the Peggy Guggenheim advisory board and the WiST (Women in Sports Tech) advisory board. She is also a member of the Dean’s Council at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design and a trustee of the Jain Family Institute, a social incubator that primarily focuses on impacting complex societal structures by evaluating key contributing catalysts and launching high impact pilot programs. Carola lives in New York City with her family.

34 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

What challenges have you faced as a woman leading and managing global brand teams for many huge corporations? I worked at Interbrand for 16 years, leading large client teams. I’ve been running marketing for Spartan for a year now. At Spartan, the biggest challenge is balancing the work that is required today while still carving out room for the mental space to envision one to three years from now. You have to focus on short-term strategies and pivots, think about what’s working right now, while always challenging yourself to think ahead and build the brand for the future. At a smaller company you have limited resources, so another challenge is needing to be mindful of how you allocate them. It’s important to focus on people. The great thing about Spartan is that we have a lot of great opportunities, yet we need to prioritize them in order to maintain industry leadership and to continuously build and innovate in the “Extreme Wellness” space. What do you look for in a start-up before considering investing in it? I’m not actively investing in startups, but I do look at the start-up space for fresh marketing ideas and have been a huge fan of The Wing (I invested in The Wing right when Audrey and Lauren started this amazing member organization). It’s amazing to see this great community grow into an international tribe and company so quickly. Tell us about Spartan Women. Thinking about how Spartan as a

company can become an empowerment platform for all genders is what most attracted me to the brand. I realized very quickly that Spartan Women did not want a female-only race or pink headbands — being a Spartan woman means so much more than that. Spartan created a truly co-gender platform - everyone races together, and women can truly compete on an equal playing field. We have equal numbers of women and men on our pro team. Also key to the Spartan Women platform, we really encourage women to find their own voice and break free of restrictive female stereotypes. We want women to feel empowered to be “badass,” and we’ve established a strong social media, on-the-ground community for women to connect, where they can confide in, inspire and support each other. Especially around the time of International Women’s Day, internally at Spartan we talked about how just like in ancient Sparta, the idea that women are very powerful is foundational to the work culture we’ve built. In Sparta, women were revered as mothers of warriors. They owned land, had wealth and were encouraged to participate equally in society. Gender isn’t an issue when it comes to who deserves appreciation or authority, and women play an active role in generating ideas and closing deals. In the workplace, it’s just like on the obstacle course — women run the same race. How do you create balance between your work and personal life? I try to schedule my days in

advance as much as possible and allocate time just to think, and of course to find time to spend with my family. I normally drop the kids at school in the morning and try to be back home for our family dinner. I take time to help with homework and relax together as a family after everyone’s busy day. In the evening, I try to put my phone away for at least three hours when I am with the kids. Then, after they go to bed, most days I work a few more hours. Most mornings, I try to get up early to get a workout in! It’s good practice for race days when we all get up at 4 a.m. Another important part of family time is that I run Spartan races with all three of my kids. One of the keys to balancing work with personal life is to have a strong team that you trust and enjoy working with. At Spartan, we have a great team. I strive to understand what work-life balance means to each team member and work toward accommodating and supporting everyone in finding that balance. For me, part of achieving balance has included focusing on the win and not the time logged — it’s about working efficiently, not just pulling long hours at the office and sacrificing a personal life. What does the word empowerment mean to you? I think it means having the opportunity to pursue what you want to do, whether that’s within your company, your family, or society. It’s about being supportive of each person’s individual path. www.spartan.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 35

Jewelry Designer

inda Burr has been a popular jewelry

designer for the last 22 years, with legions of enthusiastic collectors from Hollywood to London. With a M.A. in Drama from the University of Arizona, Minda was a veteran of show business as an actress, playwright, theatrical director and producer. Many of her collectors are in all aspects of the entertainment business. Some have 40 and 50 of her designs. Tyra Banks wore some of her head-turning pieces on “America’s Got Talent” when she was on the show. With an eye for detail, Minda makes every single unique piece by hand herself. She loves working with semi-precious stones, Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls and collectibles from all over the world, including treasures from Tibet, Bali and Peru. Minda is a staunch supporter of the Shane’s Inspiration mission, which has built over 70 handicapped accessible playgrounds around the world. She enjoys travel, cooking and socializing with friends and family. Her jewelry appeals to stylish “out there” women who are doing fascinating things in the world.

310-923-2726 MindaBurrJewelry.com

BANKING Banker

Brynda E. Lattimore

Deborah J. Conevera

Charlotte, North Carolina

Walkright Knee Pads

A Healthier U

E-COMMERCE / PUBLISHING Distributor / Author

NUTRITION/WELLNESS Independent Business Owner

Lincolnton, North Carolina

VIPs

Grace L. Nystrum

Bank of America Merrill Lynch

Lincoln, Nebraska

Beverly J. Jones

Josephine’s Plumbing PLUMBING AND HVAC Business Owner

Elana N. Cohen

Lisa A. Schnettler

Saint Cloud, Florida

Elana Cohen Public Relations PUBLIC RELATIONS Public Relations Specialist

Lynda Fuller

Componere, Inc.

Innovative Home Decor

Jersey City, New Jersey

Blue Island, Illinois

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IT Specialist

Chicago, Illinois

E-COMMERCE/ RETAIL Design Consultant

Cynthia D. Vineyard-Brown Remedy Home Health

Nancy G. D’Brosca

Stephanie E. Strawbridge

Hemp Worx

Strawbridge Memorial Chapel

Leland, North Carolina

Cleveland, Ohio

RETAIL Distributor

HEALTHCARE Nurse Roanoke, Virginia

FUNERAL HOME Funeral Director

Darlene L. Petrat

Dee’s Jewelry Designs

Valerie D. Buchand

The New Town Nation Inc.

RETAIL Jeweler Goshen, Indiana

NONPROFIT Nonprofit Management Sarasota, Florida

Jennifer J. Young

Barbara L. McLeod

MASSAGE THERAPY Health Advisor

CONSULTING Consultant

Upward Call Mission Services Terre Haute, Indiana

Jill of All Tasks (JOAT) Bridgeport, Connecticut

Francisca E Aguirre

Coachella Valley Unified School District EDUCATION Educator

Crystal E. Cream

Indio, California

State of New Jersey Department of Children and Families GOVERNMENT Program Support Specialist Camden, New Jersey

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 37

Cover

STORY

O li v ia

ith a career spanning more than five decades, Olivia Newton-John is 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 took her prize-winning trip 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 army bases and 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 recorded a cover of Bob Dylan’s “If Not For You,” co-produced by Bruce Welch and fellow Aussie and friend, John Farrar, whom she continues to collaborate with today. Olivia’s U.S. album debut, “Let Me Be There,” produced her first top ten single of the same name, with Olivia being honored by the Academy of Country Music as the “Most Promising Female Vocalist,” winning a Grammy award as “Best Country Vocalist.” With more than 100 million albums sold, Olivia’s successes include four Grammy awards, numerous Country Music, American Music and People’s Choice awards, ten #1 hits including “Physical,” (the #1 single of the 80s), and over 15 Top 10 singles. In November 2015, Billboard Magazine listed “Physical” at #8 on their “Top 100 Songs of All Time” list and in 2010 listed it as “The Sexiest Song of All Time.” In 2015 Olivia was ranked #20 on Billboard’s “Greatest of All Time Hot 100 Artists” and most recently was ranked #7 on Billboard’s “Greatest of All Time Hot 100 Women Artists.” 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 movie musical in

38 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

history. Her other feature film credits include “Funny Things Happen Down Under,” “Toomorrow,” “Xanadu,” “Two of A Kind,” “It’s My Party,” “Sordid Lives,” “Score: A Hockey Musical,” and “A Few Best Men.” Olivia was bestowed an O.B.E. (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 self-penned and produced album, “Gaia.” As a breast cancer “thriver,” Olivia has 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 25 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 Order 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 2010, Olivia appeared as herself in two episodes of the hit series “Glee.” In October 2010 Olivia starred in the breast cancer docudrama “1 A Minute” and the Canadian film “Score: A Hockey Musical.” Her 2012 film, “A Few Best Men,” garnered her some of the best reviews of her film career. Her CD, “Grace and Gratitude: Renewed” (2010), debuted at #2 on the Billboard Magazine New Age chart. Olivia released her second book, “LivWise: Easy Recipes For a Healthy, Happy Life” in Australia in 2011. Her first book, “A Pig Tale,” an environmental-

Newton-John

ly themed story written for children, was released in 1993. In “LivWise,” Olivia explains her belief in the importance of eating a healthy diet in order to maintain wellness and balance. Proceeds from the sale of the book benefit the ONJCWRC. In 2012, she reunited with John Travolta to release “This Christmas,” a holiday CD collection that was also a fundraiser for both the ONJCWRC and The Jett Travolta Foundation. That year Olivia was also named one of Australia’s “National Living Treasures” by the National Trust of Australia. In 2013 she was honored with her own stamp as part of the “Australia Post Legends” stamp series. In 2015 Olivia topped the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart with the #1 hit duet, “You Have to Believe,” with her daughter Chloe. In April of 2015 she toured arenas in Australia with fellow Aussie icon, John Farnham, with “Two Strong Hearts.” In 2017 Olivia revealed that her breast cancer had returned and metastasized to her sacrum. She recovered and continued to focus on her health. In 2018, Olivia joined John Travolta for a special Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences “Grease” 40th Anniversary event to celebrate the milestone. She also released “Hopelessly Devoted: The Hits” on SONY Music Australia, and recorded two duets with fellow Aussie, Delta Goodrem, “Let Me Be There” and “Love Is a Gift,” for Goodrem’s ONJ tribute CD, “I Honestly Love You.” Olivia also reunited in the studio with long-time friend, Sir Cliff Richard, for the duet “Everybody’s Someone,” their first recording together since 1995, for Richard’s new CD, “Rise Up.” In September 2018, Olivia released her best-selling memoir, “Don’t Stop Believin’.” The book tells Olivia’s story for the first time in her own words. It debuted at #12 on the New York Times Best Sellers list, as well as #7 on the Publisher’s Weekly list. In February 2019, Olivia released the skincare range, Retreatment Botanics. The natural, luxury formulas are Australian-made, vegan, certified palm oil free by the Orangutan Alliance and contain powerful native extracts. In 2019, Olivia received the appointment as a Companion (AC) of the Order of Australia (General Division) – the highest Australian honor, for her eminent service to community health, particularly people living with cancer, through support for medical research, and as a songwriter and performer. The future looks brighter every day for Olivia, as she continues to delight fans with her vocal talents, books, and continues to support cancer research and holistic health.

Actress, Singer, Activist

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 39

Q&A with Olivia You are so talented and stunning at 71. What are your secrets to keeping yourself looking so youthful and beautiful? I think I’m very fortunate. My mother looked good into her old age so I’m hoping it continues for me. I also think because I’m happy on the inside that it reflects on the outside. I try to take care of myself as best as I can with how I eat. I’m always moisturizing my skin and all those basic things. Can you tell us about your skincare line Retreatment Botanics? Retreatment Botanics started at my retreat and spa in Australia which is close to Byron Bay. It’s in the most beautiful part of Australia which has rolling hills, going down to the ocean. We have a beautiful spa there which I’ve had for many years now. We’ve come up with this skincare line that’s virtually organic. We don’t have any palm oil in it because we’re trying

40 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

to protect the chimpanzees that are getting their habitat cut down through the use of palm trees. I use my products every day and I love them. Let’s go back in time. To date, “Grease” remains the most successful movie musical in history. Why do you think this movie still appeals to so many generations? I wish I knew all the secrets because we would’ve made another movie like it. There’s something magical about the combination of the music, the dancing, and the costumes. It’s kind of like a costume party set in the 50’s because it’s so vibrant, bigger than life, and all the characters that people related to then. And of course, the story is a great story. Boy meets girl, loses girl, and gets her back- everyone loves that story. We all recognize it from our high school days and it’s kind of got a cartoonish quality because it’s so full of energy, which was really important

when we were making the movie. Allan Carr, who was the producer, would come down and kind of get us going for the day and get us excited. That energy transferred to everything. I think it was just a great story. It was a very successful stage play before it became a movie. The movie just made it even better, because we had new songs written as well. What inspired you to write your memoire “Don’t Stop Believin’?” Originally, I was inspired because they were doing a movie of my life in Australia. I guess because I’m a public figure they can make things without your permission. So, they were making this movie and I thought, “Oh gosh, I don’t know what they’re going to say.” I decided it was better to write my own report of my life to correct any errors. Thankfully, it turns out that it wasn’t bad at all and was quite a positive movie. Meanwhile, I’d started mine and it was actually an enjoyable process. You’ve had an amazing life and career. But you have also suffered

with cancer. How did you deal with that diagnosis? I know you have said that you could either be a victim or a winner. Explain that. I think the life you live is a choice. Obviously, some things are out of your control, but the way you think is in your control. If you think positively, you have kind of trained your mind to go to the positive rather than the negative. It’s always very easy to blame someone else, be the victim and take the ‘poor me’ approach. Or, you can choose to be responsible for your life and to be positive about it, which I think is healthier for your body and for your mind and makes for a happier life all the way round. How do you create and maintain a balance between your personal life and your business life? I took a year off because I had a health problem last year. I ended up being in my own hospital in Melbourne, Australia. I had a reoccurrence of breast cancer metastasize and had to go into the hospital, but it’s been a year of healing and I feel fantastic now. Fortunately for me, it wasn’t just any hospital, it was my hospital in Melbourne. I was very lucky to have that experience and find out how wonderful it was. Name one outstanding quality that you feel people should know about you or that you want to be remembered by someday. I don’t want to tell people how to remember me. They’ll remember me how they want to. I hope that I brought them some pleasure with my music, and I hope that I will bring them some healing with my cancer research in Australia. I’m actually very excited because we’re going to be doing some plant medicine research in the future. I’m very excited about that because cannabis has been a big part of my healing. I guess it’s just nice to be remembered. I truly hope that my cancer wellness center in Australia will continue to help people and treat people. That would be lovely. Any there more songs in the works? I did a duet with Barry Gibbs that’s coming out soon on his country album.

I did so because he’s my really dear friend and I think he’s brilliant. His music is amazing. I sang with him a few months ago, but I don’t have any actual plans for my own music. If I do anything, it’ll probably be with my daughter Chloe, because we had a number one dance record together. It was another song with “believe” in it. I think I’m going to just take a lot more time off to work with my husband. He’s working on trying to make cannabis easier for people to access from my cancer wellness center and around the world as well. What does the word empowerment mean to you? I think it’s taking strength from your insides and believing in something strongly enough that you just go for it, no matter what obstacles could be there. You just keep going forward. I’m empowered. If you really care about something and you have a purpose that empowers you to keep going, no matter what the obstacles are, you continue to do it. Usually, it’s a real strong belief inside you that you want to fulfill, or you may want to change something that you see is unfair. Empowerment comes in many different shapes and sizes, but it comes from inside. What advice can you give to women who are suffering from breast cancer?

You have to believe that you will get well, and you shouldn’t believe statistics. I ignore statistics because you don’t have to be a statistic. I don’t think doctors should be telling you things like that. It’s almost like in voodoo, when someone tells you you’re going to die or they point the bone at you, people die just from believing they will. That proves the power of the mind is incredibly strong. You must become educated. Go online and learn all you can about your diagnosis. Dr. Veronique Desaulniers is a wonderful person to get involved with. She healed herself of breast cancer a couple of times and has a book that is very helpful on a lot of natural therapies that you can do. Cleanses and diets are positive, particularly for girls with breast cancer. You must find something that you love to do and do it every day. I think joy is incredibly important. It’s very important that you aren’t the one to field all the calls from doctors about your health. Have somebody else in the family talk to other people about how you’re doing. Otherwise, you’re continually reinforcing your illness and talking about it. You want to talk about positive things. That would be my advice. OliviaNewton-John.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 41

hef, best-selling author and television personality Carla Hall has been entertaining audiences with her enthusiasm for life and warm personality for years. She initially won over audiences when she shared her philosophy to always cook with love while competing on Bravo’s “Top Chef ” and “Top Chef: All Stars.” She hosted the award-winning daytime program “The Chew” for many years, engaging with audiences on an authentic level that brought her loyal and passionate fans. Carla strives to communicate her belief that food connects us all through her cooking, work, and in her daily interactions with others. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Carla grew up surrounded by soul food. When choosing her career, she originally opted for a business route. She graduated from Howard University’s Business School and worked as an accountant for two years before deciding to switch gears and work as a runway model. During that time, as Carla traveled (and ate) her way through Europe for a few years, she truly realized her deep-rooted passion for food could be her career path. Carla received a Culinary Career Training certificate from L’Academie de Cuisine in Bethesda, Maryland. Today, she is a trained chef who has worked in several professional restaurant kitchens in and around the Washington, D.C. area and is an accomplished television personality and author. As an author, Carla combined her loves of food, people, and culture to write several cookbooks. Her latest cookbook, “Carla Hall’s Soul Food: Everyday and Celebration,” was published last fall. She has two previous cookbooks, “Carla’s Comfort Food: Favorite Dishes from Around the World” and “Cooking with Love: Comfort Food That Hugs You.” In all her cookbooks, Carla emphasizes the importance of using the freshest ingredients possible, incorporating traditional and modern techniques and cooking with love to carry on beloved family recipes. Carla is active with many charities and nonprofit organizations that

42 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

CARLA

HALL

Chef, Author, TV Personality

reflect her passion for causes close to her heart. These include Helen Keller International, an organization that works to improve the lives of those with blindness, and to prevent the causes and consequences of blindness, poor health, and malnutrition. She is also the culinary ambassador for Sweet Home Cafe at the Smithsonian National Museum for African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. where she brings attention to the history of the food that has inspired the café. Carla lives in D.C. with her husband, Matthew Lyons. After starting your career as a CPA and model, what made you shift to cooking? I started cooking as a gesture of gratitude for all of the people who let me couch surf in Paris and London. What was it like being a contestant and fan favorite on Bravo’s Top Chef for two seasons? Being a fan favorite gave me confidence in knowing that people accepted me for my authentic self and that I was making food people wanted to eat. How did your seven years as a host of “The Chew” influence what you are doing today? Being on “The Chew” provided me with the skills necessary to teach people my recipes. Which is your favorite recipe to prepare? I like making biscuits. You are a chef, entrepreneur, media personality, author, wife and stepmom. How do you find balance between your work and personal life? You don’t. There is never a perfect balance. What’s next for you? I have a show called “Crazy Delicious” that we just shot in London. It will be on Netflix in early spring 2020 and it is amazing. What does the word empowerment mean to you? As I get older, empowerment comes from wisdom and confidence that I gain through life experiences. I feel freer to make my life what I want it to be. www.carlahall.com

by Carla Hall

Ingredients:

2 garlic cloves, grated on a microplane 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar 1 Tbsp. yellow mustard 1 Tbsp. hot sauce 1 tspn. honey Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 6 Tbsp. vegetable oil 1 (15-ounce) can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained 2 mini cucumbers, cut into ½-inch dice ½ sweet onion, finely chopped 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved ¼ cup picked fresh dill

Serves 4

Directions:

• Whisk the garlic, vinegar, mustard, hot sauce, honey, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper in a large bowl until smooth. While whisking, add the oil in a slow, steady stream. Whisk until emulsified. • Add the peas, cucumbers, onion, tomatoes, dill, and ½ teaspoon salt. Toss until well-mixed. You can serve this right away or let it sit at room temperature for up to an hour or chill it for up to a day.

Roasted Chicken Fajita

Recipes

Black-Eyed Pea Salad with Hot Sauce Vinaigrette

FROM OUR MEMBERS

by Syndi Reibman Feeds 6-8 people

Ingredients:

4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into large chunks or strips 3 peppers julienned (yellow, orange, red) 3 large onions julienned 4 tspn. fajita seasoning + 2 tspn. fajita seasoning (for reseasoning) 2 tspn. ground cumin 2 tspn. chili powder 1 generous tspn. freshly ground pepper 4-6 Tbsp. olive oil opt. 4 Tbsp. lime juice

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 400°. • Prep your vegetables into ½ inch slices. Cut chicken thighs into strips and then slice into thirds for large chunks. • Line a large baking sheet with heavy duty tin foil. Place the onions and peppers in a layer. Top with chicken. Sprinkle with the spices all over everything (reserve 2 tsp. fajita seasoning for later). • Drizzle with olive oil generously. Mix everything together so seasoning is distributed evenly. • Roast in oven for 30 minutes. Remove and mix everything gently. Place back in oven. After another 30 minutes, remove from oven, re-season with fajita seasoning. Mix again. Place back in oven and bake another 30 minutes. • Sprinkle with lime juice if you wish just before serving. Serve with rice, grated cheese, sour cream, guacamole, tortilla chips, salad, etc.

Banana Bread

Ingredients:

WET 3 large bananas chopped 1 cup sugar ¼ cup melted unsalted butter 1 egg beaten ½ cup milk

by Valerie Lyons DRY 2 cups flour 1 tspn. baking soda 1 tspn. baking powder ¼ tspn. salt ½ cup walnuts

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°. Mix wet ingredients in order given in large bowl. Add dry ingredients to the mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated. Pour into wellgreased baking loaf pan. Bake at 350° for 45 minutes.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 43

Designer Sonia B. Designs

onia Bitton is the creative force behind Sonia B. Designs, a New York City based jewelry company. The company is a labor of love, born of a passion for beautiful jewels and for creating beauty in design. Sonia is the creator of Galarie De Bijoux, an exclusive collection of fine jewelry that is very popular with customers. She has an innate sense of style that makes her a natural at the jewelry business. With a career spanning several decades, she has worked with top jewelry houses including Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bailey, Banks & Biddle as its clients. For her own line of jewelry, Sonia’s inspiration is not celebrities, but the women she sees every day. She creates designs using quality materials that define personal style with attention to fine detail, but most importantly offer great value. A native of Morocco, Sonia travels to jewelry design hotspots like France, Italy, Israel, and throughout the world in search of ideas to ultimately create products that are expressive, elegant and wearable. She is a trendsetter, creating innovative pieces that are sure to please even the most discriminating and demanding of clients, herself included. Sonia specializes in unique custom-made designs created to cater to client specifications, using precious metals, diamonds and often, rare gemstones. Her clients often contribute to the design process, working personally with Sonia, bringing to life inspired designs that surpass their own expectations. 44 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

How did you get started in the jewelry industry? I was a computer programmer in 1979 for Pan American Diamond, the second largest jewelry manufacturer in New York. I had to program every single “thing” for the manufacturer. I loved the jewelry so much I decided to learn every step of making and designing. After decades of design, how do you continue to come up with fresh and innovative ideas? Since I was very young, I always loved clothes and jewelry. I was in medical school in Toulouse from 1971-73, but when I moved to New York, medical school was too expensive. I did computer programming and was lucky to find a job in 1979 in jewelry. I stayed there for 17 years. Jewelry and fashion are important to me, so I travel and still marvel at every great jewelry designer. You have said that for your own line, your inspiration is not celebrities, but the women you see every day. What is it about the everyday woman’s style that excites you? I love to see a woman well put-together and always have her jewelry matching what she wears. My number one thing to design is earrings. I always design earrings first! My second favorite is bracelets. My “Sonia Girls” wait for my designs to come out. My quality is very important. Everything is made in New York City. No imports for me! All my designs go straight to the manufacturer where I have my office. I follow every single step of manufacturing. What is one habit that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? Being always “au courant” - Being aware of all that is going on now. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means doing what you like to do every single day! When you are young, think about what you really love to do and pursue it. soniabdesigns.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 45

Women

OF THE MONTH

Robin Joy Ramquist

obin Joy Ramquist is the owner and manager of Burntside Consultants, a drug abuse and addiction treatment facility. With 11 years experience, Robin is responsible for staff oversight, overall operations, and ensuring that their clients receive the best possible counseling services helping them overcome alcoholism, addiction treatment and drug abuse including chronic

Elizabeth Whitmer

lizabeth A. Whitmer, RHIT, CCS, CCS-P, AHDI-F has over 25 years experience in the educational arena and in healthcare services. She is a professor in the Health Information Technology program at Florida Southwestern State College. The state college has five locations in southwestern Florida. In addition to serving as an AHIMA recognized ICD10 CM/PCS trainer, Elizabeth teaches medical coding, billing, legal compliance, HIPAA guidelines, privacy rules for healthcare patient records, along with Electronic Health Systems technology and security. The courses she covers are: Health Information Management and Supervision, Reimbursement Methodologies, ICD-10 CM/PCS coding, HCPCS, and CPT-4 Coding.

46 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

pain drug abuse. She earned her B.A. in Medical and Pre-Law from International Falls College. Previously, Robin served as an EMT and is a retired firefighter. She is a member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and Paws and Claws. In her spare time, Robin enjoys rehabilitating abused dogs. burntsideconsultant.com Professor | Florida Southwestern State College

Elizabeth is focused on moving HIT (Health Information Technology) into the future of the healthcare and wellness industry. It is with creativity and an inner desire to further learning that she promotes activities and programs that will make her students productive and successful employees. In addition to her role as an educator, Elizabeth built a phone app for her students and coders that is available through www.myhealthcarecoder.com. She also invented a coding keyboard for coders. She holds two patents for this industry-specific medical coding keyboard which is available at https:// elliotttechnology.com. Elizabeth has also contributed articles of interest locally, and to the AHIMA.

Cheryl A. Palmieri

heryl A. Palmieri is an independent sales director with Mary Kay Inc. With almost 5 years experience in the cosmetics industry, Cheryl is responsible for overseeing a team of 64 consultants. She specializes in sales, leadership, education, training, providing in-depth skincare product information and serves as a makeup specialist. Until recently, she served as a program assistant at Montclair State University. Cheryl received an A.A. in Marketing from Southern New Hampshire University. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and travel. Cheryl volunteers with the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. How did you get started in your field or industry? It all began at a bridal show. I was

Manager and Owner | Burntside Consultants

Elizabeth is a member of the American Health Information Management Association and the Florida Health Information Management Association, where she serves as an advocate on the Legislative Committee, working to educate legislators on healthcare bills that affect the State of Florida. She also serves as a student mentor. She has held many positions with FHIMA including director of FIRE (Find, Inspire, Recruit, Educate). She was president of the Southwest Health Information Management Association from 2003-2016. Elizabeth is affiliated with the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity, and the American Association of Professional Coders. She has received numerous awards in her field. Her most recent award is the Triumph Award in Innovation from AHIMA in 2017. www.fsw.edu

Independent Sales Director | Mary Kay Inc.

newly engaged, went to browse, was asked to participate in a Mary Kay Beauty experience and agreed. I fell in love with the product, the company, their values and the women involved. I decided to try it as extra income for my wedding and it turned into my passion and career. What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in your career? The biggest obstacle was that I was very quiet and shy. I learned to value myself, not be so self-conscious and follow my passion to help all women feel beautiful and empowered, no matter what. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Some of the biggest challenges are being taken seriously in business, especially in a home-based business. It is not a fad or hobby, but a full-fledged business, especially with Mary Kay, where a woman in the mid years of her life took her life savings and began a business which now spans over 40 countries. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is your own way of making yourself feel self-confident, self-reliant and to feel good about what you are doing, while helping other women do the same by building them up and building their self-confidence. www.marykay.com/chersh

P.O.W.E.R.

PUBLICITY

f you are interested in being interviewed to get your story on social media, consider a Podcast, Press Release, Video or even a possible 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. Recognizes Kari R. Wilson

PODCAST RADIO Our podcasts are prerecorded audio interviews which give our members the opportunity to convey a message or story. This is a great way to increase your exposure and market reach. The podcasts are promoted through our social media. TIMES SQUARE PHOTO RECOGNITION 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 pedestrians walk through Times Square on its busiest days. It is also the hub of the Broadway Theater District and the world’s entertainment industry. 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 Your Press Release is a written public announcement covering your personal and business accomplishments designed to enhance one’s exposure and market reach. This newsworthy communication is distributed to radio, television, broadcast, journalists and social media sites. This release can include your photo or company logo as well as a hyperlink to your company website so readers can instantly learn about who you are and what your company offers. 48 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

For further information, call us at (516) 365-3222 Ext. 209 or email us at info@powerwoe.com.

Mary Ramos-Brauner

Annette Fazio

Owner Without a Slice

Creator Ground Level Leadership

Mary Ramos-Brauner is an entrepreneur and the owner of two Westchester, New York-based weight loss centers and medical spas. Her desire is to make customers feel good about themselves. As a former EMT who experienced the devastation of 9/11 firsthand and is now coping with the medical after-effects of the attack, Mary’s own wellness journey has been integral to the success of her current business, Without a Slice. The medical spa offers body contouring, non-surgical liposuction, facelifts, Cool Slimming™ and non-medication pain management. A Cuban native, Mary also runs a travel consulting business called Marywilltravel Signature Travel and Tours, where she designs personalized tours for domestic and international travelers. Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Mary served as a community liaison in Manhattan during the 1990s, working with grassroots organizations to improve relations between the city’s administration and the local Latino population. Later, she served as a paramedic, responding to every sort of emergency situation imaginable, including the World Trade Center disaster. Mary’s volunteer spirit is admirable. She currently serves as the chair of the New York State Latino Republican group, as well as being visible in her local synagogue and in various Westchester nonprofits, including the Junior League of Bronxville. She holds a B.S. in Psychology from Marymount Manhattan College. www.withoutaslice.com

Annette Fazio is the creator and CEO of Ground Level Leadership. A keynote speaker, author and entrepreneur, her topics include the Art of Resiliency and You Gotta Laugh – the importance of maintaining a sense of humor for success in small business. Annette focuses on ethics, integrity, and training managers to stick to their values and create employee loyalty. She teaches employees to adopt leadership roles and emphasizes hard work, common sense and a down to earth attitude. Previously, Annette ran a start-up specialty food company, three restaurants, and a successful catering business. She developed and hosted a Boston cable cooking show and was an educator for Le Cordon Bleu. Annette uses her own stories of business trials and life experiences to get to the point. She attributes her success and consistent growth to employee loyalty. She shows attendees how to adopt a no-excuse belief system. Annette considers it a privilege to feed the hearts and minds of her audience and inspire them to connect with fellow workers and appreciate their place of business. Her book, “Finding the Leader Within,” is based on the premise that you already possess the inherent ability to do extraordinary acts in an ordinary world. She encourages all to go out and make your personal world a better place. www.annettefazio.com

Paula Grafstein

Christie Crossley

President Courtside Market LLC

Voice Over Artist Crossley Voice

Paula Grafstein is the president of Courtside Market LLC, a domestic manufacturer and distributor of trend-driven quality wall décor. Together with its retail partners, Courtside Market has filled the walls of thousands and thousands of homes and offices throughout the U.S and Canada. Recently, they launched a direct-to-consumer online art and custom wall art store selling a variety of décor products including affordable custom quality gallery-wrapped canvas, framed art, wall art murals and decals, wood signs, and frames including shadowboxes at www.courtsidemarket.com. Courtside Market has also established a new facility in Europe servicing the demands of the markets available through many channels of distribution. As president, Paula is responsible for managing the company on a daily basis and oversees the enforcement and compliance of the company’s ever-expanding intellectual property portfolio. She received her B.B.A. from Drexel University and her J.D. from New York Law School. In addition to managing the business, Paula has two children and passionately supports their aspirations in competing on tennis courts worldwide... hence the name of the company, Courtside Market. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is when one applies the mindset that with each event of adversity is another opportunity to become stronger and more confident to take on life’s toughest challenges. www.courtsidemarket.com

Christie Crossley is a voice over artist with Crossley Voice. Over the past 15 years, she has provided voice over talent for video game characters, commercials, corporate trainings, short form audiobooks, and DJ drops/jingles. With a home studio, Christie produces voiceovers for advertising businesses and agencies, audiobook companies, producers, entertainment, and information purposes. She specializes in audio production and provides light audio production services and basic copy editing for ESL scripts. Christie also coaches others in the craft. Christie is a graduate of the Broadcast Institute of Maryland. She also attended the Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. She is a member of the Broadcast Institute of Maryland Alumni Association and Gravy for the Brain. In her spare time, Christie enjoys spending time with family, nutrition and fitness trends, ancestry research, watching movies and TV with friends and family, occasional DIY projects, and listening to music. What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? I’m a creative mom-preneur with A.D.D. and anxiety. I jot things down in notebooks. It clears my mind and then things get done. How did you get started in your field/industry? I first sang on stage in church at age three, then sang and acted all through my youth. I went into broadcasting at 25.

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Sandy O’Connor REALTOR® MVP Realty Associates

ith almost 20 years experience in the real estate arena, Sandy O’Connor is a real estate agent with MVP Realty Associates. She is committed to providing her clients with expert knowledge, professionalism and the personal integrity necessary to complete one of the most significant financial decisions that the average individual is likely to make. In today’s real estate market, there’s no substitute for professional representation. Sandy puts her knowledge and experience to work for her clients and anyone who may be looking for real estate in Southwest Florida. Sandy became a licensed real estate salesperson in 2000. Before that, she spent many years working in the banking and financial planning industries, giving her insight into the financial necessities for real estate. The majority of her business comes from return clients and referrals, which is a true testament of her hard work, dedication and attention to detail to every real estate transaction. Specializing in residential properties, Sandy sells everything from small condos and single-family homes to luxury waterfront properties. She has helped many first-time home buyers, “empty nesters,” buyers purchasing a Florida vacation home, sellers that are downsizing or upgrading and even customers who are selling their home to move into an assisted living facility. Originally from Tonawanda, New York, Sandy has been a resident of Naples, Florida for almost 40 years. She loves educating those relocating to the area about everything that the Southwest Florida area has to offer. A current “empty nester” herself, Sandy and her husband are very proud of their two daughters who are currently attending college, both pursuing careers in medicine.

What is some advice you would give people who want to sell their home? My best advice is don’t try doing it on your own. Your home is likely one of your greatest assets. Work with a real estate professional who knows your local market and can help navigate the waters for you. What are the biggest tips you would give people regarding staging a home to sell? Here are four quick tips to prepare your home for sale. 1- Declutter to make your home look more spacious. 2- Clean, clean, clean. 3- Fix or replace anything that is broken. 4- Paint any rooms that have bold colors to a neutral color. Your goal should be to remove any objections that a buyer may have. Realtors work late nights and weekends. How do you make time for yourself and family? It takes intentional effort to balance work and family, especially because my husband and I both have demanding careers. Dinner together has always been a priority, both when our daughters were young and now as “empty nesters.” We also set dates to spend time with family and friends to enjoy some fun and relaxation. Is it true that baking cookies or an apple pie makes a home sell faster during an open house? Who doesn’t like the smell of fresh baked cookies?!? But truly, what will make your home sell faster is pricing it correctly and following the tips mentioned above. Listen to your realtor. They know the market and your competition. Also, have professional photos taken. The majority of buyers search online and if your photos don’t intrigue them, they will pass it by. As an experienced realtor, you’ve seen the market have many ups and downs. How do you prepare for the change in market prices? When the market is strong, it is easy to think it will never change. We know that’s not true. I remain educated on market changes by attending classes and forums offered by the local board of realtors, attorneys and market specialists. I share this knowledge with my customers. www.soandsonaples.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 51

Clean and natural beauty is no longer relegated to a shelf in at Whole Foods next to the granola. Major companies are taking notice, but mainly there’s a new breed of Indy beauty brands that have emerged to offer beauty products without any questionable ingredients. Life On Mars Beauty is one of those brands – ultrachic and totally clean. The idea of creating a line of healthy, non-toxic makeup and skin care came from Makeup Artist, Cynthia Sansone, founder of Life On Mars Beauty and president of Monday at Racine, a nonprofit organization that helps reduce the physical, emotional, and cosmetic side effects of cancer therapies. Cynthia could not find cosmetics that were safe, free of toxic chemicals, beautiful and luxurious — so she decided to create the line herself! Cynthia and Rosey spent years researching and developing formulas, before coming up with the perfect combination of healthy ingredients that work on your skin from the inside out. Their commitment to finding the best and safest products available transcended into the most beautiful line of beauty and wellness products on the market.

For more information @lifeonmarsbeauty www.lifeonmarsbeauty.com

Dr. Monica Sanchez

native of the Republic of Guyana, Dr. Monica Sanchez has almost 30 years experience in the business of beauty and fashion and has traveled to more than 50 countries worldwide. She has appeared in many media articles, documentaries, radio, and TV programs worldwide. In 2004, Dr. Sanchez started the Miss CARICOM International Organization with the support of Hollywood actor Danny Glover. In 2005, Dr. Sanchez and Mr. Glover traveled to South Africa as honorary guests of the current monarch and Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu. On that visit she was appointed a goodwill ambassador. Dr. Sanchez is currently involved in the development and research of holistic programs along with the Marcus Garvey International Foundation for the prevention and relief of those people infected

Founder/Chairperson, Miss CARICOM International Foundation - CIP Inc.

with HIV/AIDS worldwide. She is a pioneer in building a foundation for promoting and empowering women and youth’s worldwide as well. Dr. Sanchez is committed to improving cultural relationships amidst diversity with education and providing jobs to grassroot citizens while working on building bridges through cultural unity. Her priority is her humanitarian work which includes the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals with the focus on eradicating poverty with programs in Nigeria and Gambia with a success rate of thousands. As early as 1988, Dr. Sanchez was inducted into the Registry of Who’s Who among Successful African-Americans in North America. Among her honors and awards, she was honored by the HIV/ AIDS Linden Care Foundation for contributions to the care of people affected with the HIV/AIDS virus in 2004; as a business visionary in 2005 by The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce; by the Marcus Garvey International Organization for her Esteemed Community Services in 2005; the National Action

Dr. Adaeze (Ada) Okika, CDKA

mbassador Dr. Adaeze (Ada) Okika, CDKA is an educationist. She develops program strategies, organizes educational events and trainings, carries out research and ensures the successful implementation of initiatives, especially on peace, women, and school support programs. Her ability to successfully develop ideas into programs and build a top-performing initiative have earned repeated commendations and formal recognition from people she has worked with. Dr. Okika has received numerous awards including the Community Leader Award, Gender Advocate Award, Woman for the Millennium Award, and she has been named a Global Ambassador of Peace. She holds director positions in many organizations across the world. Dr. Okika is passionately committed to the sustainable future of children, youth, young adults, girls, and women. She is devoted to the overall health and well-be-

ing of women and runs a global campaign along with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 program- My Sisters’ Health Watch. Dr. Okika consults with many organizations affiliated with the United Nations, and has helped organizations from Africa, the Caribbean, and Asia reposition their organizations to have more meaningful agendas and purposeful mission statements. As an advocate, Dr. Okika has provided advisory notes to legislative houses on the education of children and improvement of community classrooms targeting quality and inclusive education. She has addressed gender issues, women in less privileged situations and annually empowers women in communities through education, economic empowerment, and trade exchange initiatives. Among her numerous roles, Dr. Okika is currently the executive director for the Center for SDG Global Education in the U.S., the United Nations representative/

Network for Promoting and Empowering Women all over the world at their 10th annual Women of Excellence Award in New York City in 2006; the CPIC Advocacy Award in 2006; a proclamation from Yvette Clarke, New York City council member, as an Outstanding Community Leader in 2006; Madison Who’s Who in 2006; Young Acolyte’s Symphonic Steel Orchestra honored her for Empowerment and Self Consciousness of Young Women within CARICOM Communities in 2007; World Mission Foundation honored her for Services to Africans and Caribbean Immigrants in New York City in 2007; the Progressive Democrat’s Politician Organization honored her at their Women Celebrating Women Award in 2008; The Coptic Church of North and South America awarded her the Marcus Garvey Certificate of Appreciation in 2009; and she has received several citations from city, state and federal governments because of her humanitarian work in empowering and promoting grassroots people. misscaricom.com

Ambassador and Educationist coordinator for the Africana Women Working Group at the UN, a visionary with Education Solutions, Global Teachers Classroom, a visionary with 1000 Women in Religion for Global Peace, the proprietor of Irene Menakaya Schools in Nigeria, a member of NGOCSW of New York, a member of the Working Group of Girls at the UN, a member of the governing council of Sub Saharan Open University of Uganda, a rector with Ruth Sisters Fellowship International (US chapter) and a coordinator with Solutions to Education in African Community Classroom Network. Dr. Okika is very passionate about what she does and is determined to ensure that youth, children, girls and women receive proper and equal education in community classrooms globally. She is also determined to educate regarding positive gender issues for the 2030 Agenda. Dr. Okika aspires to do more and hopes her accomplishments will be remembered in history as a model for the younger generation. Her statement, “Let’s step-up action for the future we want for our generation,” is what drives her efforts. She is committed to activate the future though education.

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Women

OF THE MONTH

Dr. Patricia A. Broderick

r. Patricia A. Broderick is a medical professor with CUNY School of Medicine, CCNY and a staunch researcher. Dr. Broderick is the founder of The Broderick Brain Foundation, which is dedicated to funding training for medical, doctoral, masters, undergraduate, and high school students, as well as professors, doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers in the quest to discover how the brain works. As the inventor of The BRODERICK PROBE® nanobiosensors, she developed and patented this series of nanobiosensors to direct the sensing work of the nanobiosensor. Eazysense Nanotechnologies Inc.

Selena J. Thiele

elena J. Thiele is the owner of Office Mercenary Services. With almost 15 years experience in office administration, Selena oversees the operations and administration of the virtual assistance company she has owned for three years. She is an expert in virtual assistance services, bookkeeping and business services and prides herself on connecting small businesses with the help, support, and expertise they need. She and her staff provide a variety of services to businesses to ensure that each project they support is finished properly and followed through with a backup plan in case further assistance is needed. Selena never finished her degree, but after working in offices for over 10 years, she was

holds unlimited franchisee rights to the BRODERICK PROBE® via the Indian Dept of Franchise while Japan’s franchisee holds market rights for the BRODERICK PROBE®. The BRODERICK PROBE® nanobiosensors image dynamic changes in neurotransmitters in vivo and in real time, on-line. Neuromolecular Imaging during successful intraoperative surgery in the brain of the epilepsy patient with New York University Institutional Review Board Approval is the first translational nanobiotechnology for the millennium and beyond. With a broad educational background including post-doctoral positions at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Cornell Medical Center, Dr. Broderick

Founder The Broderick Brain Foundation and Medical Professor CUNY School of Medicine earned her B.S. from St. Thomas Aquinas College in 1963, her M.S. from Fordham University in 1970 and her Ph.D. from St. John’s University in 1979. She has written numerous book chapters, and peer reviewed articles in the neurodegenerative and psychiatric as well as sensor journals. She is a member of the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, The Society for Neuroscience, The Association for Women in Science, The Electrochemical Society, and The American Epilepsy Society. Dr. Broderick enjoys her family and her work. www.eazysensenanotechnology.com www.eazysensationalbrainimaging.com www.eazysense.com

Owner and Virtual Assistant | Office Mercenary Services consistently the “go to” person to find creative solutions. This inspired her to open her own company. In her spare time, she enjoys travel, fostering and rescuing animals, video games and gardening. How did you get started in your field/ industry? Mostly by accident. I helped run my parents’ business for years, when a friend desperately needed office help. I offered to fill in for a bit and ended up staying there for two years. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Heather Harrison

Licensed Real Estate Broker | Compass, The Heather Harrison Team

eather Harrison has revolutionized the business of real estate in Westchester County guided by her passion for the area and her belief that buying, selling or renting a home should be successful and enjoyable. The leader of the Heather Harrison Team at Compass, she has a creative and empathetic approach real estate. Originally, Heather and her husband Zach, both Westchester natives, were living in Manhattan when they ran out of space when welcoming their first child. They yearned to return to Westchester, but they were immediately struck by a void in the real estate landscape. To date, Heather has been named a Five Star Agent in Westchester Magazine for nine consecutive years. She has consistently been the #1 producer on the #1 team in the region. The team has been recognized by the Wall Street Journal/REAL Trends as the top team in Westchester by sales volume and one of

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Two big challenges were the crash of 2008 and a serious car accident that included a concussion in 2014. I went through lots of reassessment and finding ways to get through the moment. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Studies have shown that women are less likely to be believed regarding pain levels and symptoms and have a higher rate of misdiagnosis with our health. We must be healthy to thrive in the world. What does the word empowerment mean to you? It means feeling strong and supported in a way that allows you to take that next step forward, whatever that step may be. officemercenary.com

the top real estate teams in the country. After moving from Manhattan, Heather and her husband launched Platinum Drive Realty, which they grew to more than 110 agents and multiple offices, earning many industry accolades and awards along the way. Building on their success, they merged Platinum’s leading Westchester team with Compass’ stateof-the-art technology, industry-leading tools and nationwide footprint which was a natural fit. Heather went on to form The Heather Harrison Team under the Compass umbrella. Prior to real estate, Heather honed her in-depth understanding of all things Westchester as a news reporter and anchor for TCI 10 News and News 12 Westchester. She later pivoted into roles in media marketing and PR, so it’s no surprise she’s an expert industry analyst frequently tapped by media outlets, including The New York Times, Money Magazine, The New Yorker, Fox 5 News, News 12 Westchester and WVOX radio. Heather and her husband live in Westchester where their two children attend the Scarsdale schools, just like they did. www.heatherharrisonrealestate.com

SEE WHAT’S WITH

Trending

Sara Anne

By Sara Anne Huenke, Contributing Writer Sara.Fingerman@powerwoe.com

Some pinky rings pictured courtesy of Fortunoff Fine Jewelry

Jewelry Trend The Pinky Ring From the Royals to the Sopranos… the pinky ring is seen as a symbol of money and power. Most recently women are changing the style from manly to chic. I pinky promise you’ll get plenty of compliments while wearing these gorgeous rings.

Fashion Trends Combat Boots Not only are these shoes amazing in harsh weather conditions, but they are stylish enough to wear to the office all day long. This versatile look can be dressed up or down. I particularly love Tory Burch’s Miller 60 mm Lug Sole Booties.

Polka Dots Remember how adorable Julia Roberts looked in her brown polka dotted dress in “Pretty Woman?” Well… They’re back! This trend was SPOTTED all over the runways during New York Fashion week.

Trends in Technology Night Photos Smart phones have come a long way. Now you don’t need to buy a $1000 dollar lens for your camera to capture the stars. Both the iPhone 11 Pro and Google Pixel 4 have low-light photography capabilities. After some research, I think the Apple iPhone 11 Pro takes the best night photos. Send us your night-time pictures for a chance to get featured on the P.O.W.E.R. blog! Freepik.com

Email: info@powerwoe.com Subject: Night Pictures for Blog

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Women

OF THE MONTH Troilen G. Seward

ith 50 plus years of educational experience, Troilen G. Seward currently lobbies for the Virginia State Reading Association, the Virginia Academy of School Psychologists and the Virginia Association of Adult and Continuing Education. She has served on many task forces and committees that submitted formal reports to the Virginia Board of Education and the Virginia General Assembly. She has written countless newsletter articles. Previously, Troilen spent 37 years in K-12 education serving as a teacher, administrator at the school and central office levels, school psychologist, and school superintendent for

Dinwiddie County Public Schools. She then worked in workforce development at John Tyler Community College and concurrently began her consulting business. Troilen earned a B.A. from the College of William and Mary in 1963, her M.Ed. from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1977 and her Ed.S. from the College of William and Mary in 1980. Troilen is a member of the Virginia Association of School Superintendents, treasurer of the Virginia Literacy Foundation, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Virginia Retirement System, a member of Preservation Virginia and is a member of the Surry County Historical Society. With her vast educational experience, Troilen has won numerous honors throughout the years. Among them, she was honored as the Region I Superintendent of the Year, awarded the Excellence

in Education Leadership Award from the University Council for Educational Administration, a Commending Resolution from the Virginia General Assembly, Distinguished Educational Contributions Award from the Virginia Psychological Foundation, Lifetime Achievement Award from the Virginia Academy of School Psychologists, Friend of Literacy Award from the Virginia State Reading Association and the Distinguished Service Award from the Virginia Association of Adult and Continuing Education. Longwood University honored her with a Professionals Who Made a Difference Award.

managed a national reference laboratory’s client service department, and was a successful lab sales executive, all in Dallas, Texas. She also worked for two of the largest LIS vendors in the world, ran a hospital laboratory, and served as the LIS director at two large health systems in Massachusetts. Denise earned her B.S. in Zoology from the University of Rhode Island in 1982, her M.T. (ASCP) Certification from the Rhode Island Hospital School of Medical Technology in 1983, and her M.B.A. with a focus in Marketing/Marketing Management from the University

Director, Laboratory Information Systems Baystate Health, Inc. of New Haven in 1990. She is a member of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, a board member of Sunquest User Group, Inc. and chair of Sunquest Molecular Special Interest Group. In her spare time, Denise enjoys cooking, world travel and hiking. How did you get started in your field/ industry? I saw how vital lab computer systems are in healthcare. Over 70% of decisions made regarding a patients’ treatment are based on lab results. It’s those computer systems delivering results to the providers that help them make those critical decisions. www.baystatehealth.org

Denise A. Irons

enise A. Irons is the director of Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) with Baystate Health, Inc. With over 36 years experience, she has a broad knowledge of the clinical lab industry and is experienced in commercial, vendor, and hospital diagnostic settings, especially labs with large outreach businesses. Denise is a key member of the laboratory and IT executive teams, focused on supporting the systems’ growth and increased market share across the region. Previously, Denise worked with a vendor of laboratory instrumentation,

Mia M. Maurice

s the Owner of My Medical Invoices, Mia M. Maurice is responsible for the daily operations of the company, which provides a platform for medical invoices to providers. They offer a patent pending and revolutionary healthcare billing system, which simplifies and offers the lowest cost to healthcare providers. It also saves time and hassle for patients by allowing them to view, print and pay bills from multiple healthcare providers at one place. They are HIPAA compliant and very patient-friendly. The service is free for patients to use and is available 24/7. Mia works closely with an advisory board comprised of individuals in the healthcare, medical device and other industries. Thus, she has a broad base of knowledge to utilize and ensures that the company is providing best practice methodologies. She has two years experience. In her spare time, Mia enjoys spending time with her family.

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Educator, Consultant and Lobbyist

Owner | My Medical Invoices How did you get started in your field/industry? In 2016 my child’s father and I separated after 11 years, leaving me a single mother of 3. I began searching through my medical bills to avoid any negative credit marks that would jeopardize me buying a home. After extensive research I found you can pay for this information, but only for invoices already in collections. I couldn’t believe my findings. That’s how my journey began. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? My lack of a college degree or a background in the medical field is a challenge. It’s difficult to contact appropriate individuals and inform them of the ways my company will benefit the medical industry by increasing provider revenues and relieving patients of medical debt. www.mymedicalinvoices.com

Rebecca Clifford

MaryLynn Ireland, Ph.D.

Owner A-Pak Paving

Chief Operating Officer VIABILITY.org

Rebecca Clifford is the owner of A-Pak Paving, a paving contractor and family-owned business. With 12 years experience, she oversees the entire company including management and administration, equipment upkeep, purchasing, giving estimates, ensuring first-class professionalism, and offering top notch customer service. The company serves both residential and commercial customers, providing large and small pavement projects. Rebecca oversees each project and is proud to work alongside her husband and son. The company paves driveways and parking lots, performs repairs and provides driveway resurfacing. Rebecca oversees a staff of 5. She attended college. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family. How did you get started in your field/industry? My father did construction, so I followed his lead. What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business? I stand by quality work and use internet advertising. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment to me means to be great and succeed. It means consistent growth in my industry. apakpaving.com

Dr. MaryLynn Ireland is the chief operating officer of VIABILITY.org, a provider of human services, accredited by CARF and certified by Clubhouse International. The organization collaborates with companies and creates partnerships within the community and employers to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities and other societal disadvantages. With a staff of over 500 individuals and 37 service locations nationally, VIABILITY’s objective and mission is to enrich the lives of the people they serve while emphasizing the belief that every individual, no matter their ability, can be a valuable contributor to the community and workforce. Dr. Ireland is responsible for general operations, management and oversight of various programs. Previously, Dr. Ireland served as a college professor. She also held leadership positions with Aetna. Dr. Ireland earned her Ph.D. from Capella University in 2007. She is a board member of the Marfan Foundation and a member of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and walking her dog. VIABILITY.org

Cheryl A. Kreider

Vella Joyner-Marshall

Owner and Consultant Kreider Health Solutions

Secretary Logos Ministries International

Cheryl A. Kreider is the owner of Kreider Health Solutions which provides healthcare solutions, telehealth and telemedicine services. Cheryl is also a consultant specializing in healthcare system operations, regulatory compliance, strategic business planning, telehealth and public speaking. She earned her M.B.A. from Eastern University in 2006 and is a candidate for her M.S. from the University of Pennsylvania. Cheryl is the president of the local Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the W.T.E.E. and the F.A.C.H.E. In her spare time, she enjoys swimming and exercising.

Vella Joyner-Marshall is a secretary with Logos Ministries International. In this capacity, she is responsible for providing secretarial services, bookkeeping, banking duties and general administration. Previously Vella administered anesthesia for 40 years. She earned her R.N. from Jefferson Hospital in 1958, received her Certification in Anesthesiology from Bluefield Sanitarium School of Anesthesia in 1972, and her B.A. from Bluefield College in 1985. Vella is an emeritus member of the A.A.N.A. In her spare time, she enjoys church activities and travel. How did you get started in your field/industry? I wanted to be a nurse for as long as I can remember. I admired those in the profession and love people. What advice would you give your younger self? Stay focused on your goals. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means that I have God’s hand on me. I was blessed with wonderful people who encouraged and supported my efforts. I especially appreciated and felt empowered by my mother’s prayers.

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Terry Brown-Walker

Lorraine Lane

Vice President, Chief Technology Officer Summerwood Corporation

Owner Lane Business Consulting

Terry Brown-Walker is the vice president and chief technology officer with Summerwood Corporation. She is responsible for all the daily technical aspects of Summerwood, including the implementation of all daily operational aspects of a multi-tier LAN/WAN environment and implementing phone and voicemail solutions. Terry provides support to remote locations and is responsible for overseeing cloud storage, network backups, restoring operations, and the maintenance and repair of hardware and software upgrades of all PC’s and servers at corporate and remote locations. She supervises all aspects of POS and BackOffice computers in all the restaurant locations. Terry is also responsible for the implementation and support of Great Plains Dynamics, SQL accounting for P&L statements and accounts payable. She maintains all communication and security systems for the company including mobile devices and web cams. She also formulates and implements the annual “IT” overhead and Capex budgets for the company. Terry earned a B.S. in Inorganic Chemistry in 1984 and is Certified in Database Design, both from Penn State University. She belongs to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, The Links Incorporated and is a former board member of The Chester County Futures. She enjoys playing chess, gardening and travel. summerwood.biz

Lorraine Lane has been inspiring business owners and corporate executives for over 20 years. Her passion is helping entrepreneurs and small business owners find their WHY and their WAY. She sees her role in the world as a builder of thriving business communities and speaks to that commitment in her talks, writings and work. An active coach, speaker, mentor, author and radio host, Lorraine collaborates with her clients to develop their skills, strengths, insights and perspectives. Her objective is to open doors for small business owners, so their businesses flourish and contribute back to their communities. As a business coach, she focuses on helping business owners identify their real target market, so their marketing messages are heard. Lorraine earned her B.A. from the University of Vermont and has an M.B.A. Her book, “Business-Building Referrals: Play Your A-Game and Become a Networking Super Star” is aimed at business owners who want to build their businesses through referrals. It takes a special skill to generate real referrals that result in a thriving business. Lorraine often says, “I don’t like the drip method of referrals, I much prefer a steady flow!” Lorraine enjoys spending time with her family. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment comes from within; not from some outside permission or invitation. lanebc.com

Myra Jean Myers

Deborah L. McIver

National Advisor | Operation Outcry

CEO, Founder, Business Consultant, Life Coach | Core Concept Consulting

Myra Jean Myers serves on the National Advisory Council of Operation Outcry, a nonprofit organization which provides a voice for those dealing with the lasting effects of an abortion. A pro-life advocate, her responsibilities include community outreach, biblically based abortion recovery programs, legislative relations, leadership in program and nonprofit management. She attended Elizabethtown College. Myra belongs to the American Association of Christian Counselors, National Association of Evangelicals and the National Association of Professional Women. Through a network of leaders, Operation Outcry mobilizes, equips, encourages and trains women and men to share their testimonies and minister to those hurt by abortion. Myra educates women on the negative outcomes of abortion. She believes that individuals suffering in silence can find the proper healing and forgiveness to move beyond the shame and guilt associated with abortion. She stresses that having an abortion destroys relationships and if an individual is more informed, they would never consider having one. Myra relates help, hope and healing through her videos on her YouTube channel – myoomy1. She hosts a radio show concerning the issues of life, liberty and justice, “The Truth Spoken In Love,” found at boldbravemedia.com/shows/the-truth-spoken-in-love. What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? Perseverance. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Purpose. www.operationoutcry.org

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Deborah L. McIver is a business consultant and strategist, performance and life coach, motivational speaker, and the president of Core Concept Consulting. She started her own business in 2006. With over 25 years experience, Deborah offers workshops, seminars, keynote speaking, and coaching. She assists clients with personal and professional growth through the application of proven leadership methods. Working collaboratively, Deborah moves individuals, teams, and organizations to reach their goals with the goal to bring positive change to families and communities globally. Her mission is to empower, educate and elevate people with the knowledge, skillset and tools necessary to become true architects and design their lives with purpose. Deborah coaches clients transitioning from the corporate world to embrace entrepreneurship and mentors. She earned her B.A. in Finance and Marketing from Morgan State University in 1980. She is a Certified Life and Leadership Coach and is also a Business Strategy Consultant. Deborah is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and N.A.P.W. She is also an active member in her church, serving on the leadership, outreach and financial committees. In her spare time, Deborah enjoys travel, fitness and family activities. What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? Being consistent; having determination and discipline. www.coreconceptconsulting.net

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Myra Armstead Divine Purpose Olivia Newton-John Don’t Stop Believin’

With candor, humor, and warmth, legendary musician, actress, activist, and icon Olivia Newton-John reveals her life story—from her unforgettable rise to fame in the classic musical Grease to her passionate advocacy for health and wellness in light of her battles with cancer. Perfect for fans of Tina Turner’s My Love Story and Sally Field’s In Pieces, this international bestseller is an extraordinary can’t-miss memoir. For more than five decades, Olivia Newton-John has been one of our most successful and adored entertainers. A fourtime Grammy Award winner, she is one of the world’s bestselling recording artists of all time, with more than 100 million albums sold. Her starring roles in the iconic movies Grease and Xanadu catapulted her into super-stardom. Her appeal as a performer is timeless. In addition to her music and screen successes, Olivia is perhaps best known for her strength, courage, and grace. After her own personal journeys with cancer, she has thrived and become an inspiration for millions around the world. A tireless advocate for countless charities, her true passion is as the founding champion of the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre in her hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Olivia has always radiated joy, hope, and compassion—determined to be a force for good in the world. Now she is sharing her journey, from Melbourne schoolgirl to international superstar, in this deeply personal book. Warm, candid, and moving, Don’t Stop Believin’ is Olivia Newton-John’s story in her own words for the very first time.

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Growing up Myra W. Armstead used to be a very bashful quiet girl with very few friends. She has never been one to open herself up to others and has always been a person of observation. It wasn’t until her adulthood that God started to clearly confirm how he wanted to use her to help others become saved and avoid life’s pitfalls. Myra has wrestled with spiritual instruction and confirmations. She has experienced so much hardship, pain, and disappointments. The world has no idea of what God has brought her through and how he has brought her through. God is using Myra to reveal her imperfections and failures to the world. For some reason, there are many that think she has it all together. Her life’s battles are being revealed in this reading to help free others from the bondage of public acceptance. God has used Myra to show others that no matter what life throws you there is a lesson to be learned in all situations. God pulled Myra out of her comfort zone and is allowing her to become free through her transparency. Now that Myra has developed in her spiritual journey it is time for the unleashing of the greatness God has imbedded within her. She continuously involves herself in empowering other women specifically through countless public speaking opportunities. She founded her own ministry as a way of giving back to women and girls in need. Myra donates used clothing and shoes on a monthly basis to needy single mothers in her local and surrounding communities as her personal ministry towards empowering women (The Trunk Ministry). God has granted her with so many gifts and talents (Myra De Unique) which she is now required to share with the world.

Barbara Morris The New Put Old on Hold: How You Can Stay Youthful Longer and Live the Life You Really Want -- Even When Tradition Says You Can’t (or Shouldn’t)

The New Put Old on Hold offers bold solutions for midlife and new retirees trapped by outdated cultural norms that are responsible for mental and physical premature decline. It is for those who want more out of life in the retirement years than what the typical senior lifestyle currently offers. While it is intended for women, men will benefit as well.

Catherine L. Aman Mr. Bubbles

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Carla Hall Carla Hall’s Soul Food — Everyday and Celebration

This verse novel flows quickly and rhythmically. Each chapter faces and resolves a new challenge. Bobby In Carla Hall’s Bubbles leaves high school to embark on building a life Soul Food- Everyof his own. His dad’s bad temper and divorce from his day and Celebramom have left Bobby’s life rather deflated and lacking tion, the beloved in social skills. His faith, his sister Beth and eventuchef and television ally a few friends, including an imaginary one named celebrity takes us Chuck, help guide him on back to her own his journey to find love Nashville roots and a meaningful life. to offer a fresh, While transparently solvlip-smackin’ look ing problems along the at America’s favorite comfort cuisine and traces soul food’s way, the reader can experihistory from Africa and the Caribbean to the American ence the relief of resoluSouth. Carla shows us that soul food is more than barbecue tion and perhaps muster and mac and cheese. Traditionally a plant-based cuisine, motivation and courage everyday soul food is full of veggie goodness that’s just as to solve some problems of delicious as cornbread and fried chicken. their own. From Black-Eyed Pea Salad with Hot Sauce Vinaigrette to Tomato Pie with Garlic Bread Crust, the recipes in Carla Hall’s Soul Food deliver her distinctive Southern flavors using farm-fresh ingredients. The results are light, healthy, seasonal dishes with big, satisfying tastes—the mouthwatering soul food everyone will want a taste of. With Carla Hall’s Soul Food, you can indulge in rich celebration foods, such as deviled eggs, buttermilk biscuits, Carla’s famous take on Nashville hot fried chicken, and a decadent coconut cream layer cake. Featuring 145 original recipes, 120 color photographs, and a whole lotta love, Carla Hall’s Soul Food is a wonderful blend of the modern and the traditional—honoring soul food’s heritage and personalizing it with Carla’s signature fresh style. The result is an Shahla irresistible and open-hearted collection Shahmiri of recipes and stories that share love and Tears of joy, identity, and memory.

Annette Fazio Finding the Leader Within: A Journey of Commitment and Courage

Would you like to take the lead from a ground level position without taking on the entire organization? Would you like to be able to spark and inspire action from the people around you? Finding the Leader Within is not built on having special talents, or your level of education. It is based on your inherent ability to do extraordinary acts in an ordinary world, gain the respect of those around you, and make your personal world a better place. As the Freedom Tower represents the rising beauty from the ashes of Ground Zero, let the stories of the FDNY firefighters inspire you to new heights of confidence, self-assuredness, and a simple path to finding your own leader within.

Onion: The Gift of Finding Refuge in Our Own Lives

There was a season in my life when I lost everything. Amid that period, I lost all hope. As time passed, the need to heal from my own excruciating experience would give me the courage to walk back down memory lane to a place where a group of refugee women would come together to create a sanctuary in which we could share our hopes, fears, and memories. I kept these women in my heart for years, and never forgot how we found a place to gather and bond together as we prepared favorite meals from our different homelands. In some aspect, as human beings, we are all refugees looking for a safe haven in the new places we hope to call home. Tears of Onions is about life, love, struggles, fighting to survive, injustice, unfairness, and how we all share a common ground when it comes to our human nature. In the end, love and simple human compassion can save us all.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 61

Catherine L. Aman

Author Aman Inc. LLC

atherine L. Aman is an American author and lecturer. She has published two books, “Then My Mind Took a Walk to Love,” a collection of poems, lyrics and photographs, and “Mr. Bubbles,” an eight chapter verse novella. As a freelance journalist of the Winchendon Courier, she wrote three weekly features for six years, has written brochures, training material, memoirs and film synopses. Presently employed by Jacob’s Engineering as a FEMA contractor, Catherine has an avenue to express compassion for communities experiencing devastations dealt by Mother Nature.

Her long commitment to build, restore and beautify communities has led her to focus on resilience. Though much of her life and job training was gained from family and on the job trainings, she has obtained degrees from the University of New Hampshire and Columbia College with minors in Business and English as well as her Masters of Strategic Leadership from one of the few remaining women’s colleges in the United States, Stephens College. Also certified as a Therapeutic Yoga Teacher and Shiatsu/Oriental Healing Practitioner, Catherine has taught yoga part-time since 1984 and maintained a part-time Shiatsu practice for five years in the Boston area. As a paid guest speaker, she gave presentations on topics related to stress management at Harvard

Divinity School, Boston University, Tufts University, Harvard Community Health Plan, the Newton, MA Jewish Community Center, Beth Israel Hospital physical therapy department and Massachusetts Nutrition Association. As a ten-year member of the Unification Movement she lectured on divine principle, modified group discussions, and represented the organization in a first amendment right suit. Catherine was also active as a volunteer assisting with refugee resettlement in the Boston area for two years with the Ethiopian Family Center. Following ten years of working in the Boston medical field, both administratively and with cardiology and psychiatry patients, Catherine gave birth and moved to Winchendon, Massachusetts. In 2003, she took

Julie Sims

Realtor | Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Julie A. Sims is a realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. For over 25 years, Julie has been helping clients that are buying and selling residential properties. She assists buyers and sellers and ensures they have the best possible experience when buying or selling a home. Julie is a member of the National Association of Realtors, the Arizona Association of Realtors and the South East Valley Regional Association of Realtors. She is the recipient of the Coldwell Banker International President’s ELITE award and is a Multi-Million Dollar Producer and a member of the Million Dollar Bronze Society, both with SEVRAR. She is also a Certified Relocation Specialist.

62 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

employment with the Social Security Disability Hearings & Appeals Office. Impacted by the number of people and the severity of their afflictions, she was frustrated by the apparent lack of selfcare education to help these clients be healed and have better lives. Following a family relocation to Missouri, Catherine had an on-thejob injury, causing her to change tracks herself; she decided to complete her master’s degree. While working with school children, she began writing “Mr. Bubbles.” This story of facing difficulties and persevering hits on tough topics and is softened by being told in verse. The cover is rather adolescent, but its message is ageless. It is encouraging, refreshing and awakening. Read it. You will be glad that you did.

Julie makes it a point to ensure that her clients have a pleasant and successful experience. She has an extensive knowledge of the Maricopa and Pinal Counties. She works relentlessly to ensure that clients find their perfect home and that homes are sold in a timely fashion. Working as a team with her mother, Linda Sims, Julie stays on top of the market with continued education and seminars. She ensures that each client is treated with respect. Julie takes great pride in having happy and satisfied clients. In her spare time, she enjoys tennis, swimming, hiking and reading.

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Amelia Moore A

Author, Actor, Educator Buzz Builder

melia Moore (aka Ameliaismore) is an author, actor, educator, TV host, journalist, marketer, executive, and SheEO. Succinctly, Amelia is an all-round talent and entrepreneur. With over 25 years experience in the entertainment business from acting on set to running record labels to even hosting and producing TV shows, she does it all. Amelia stays busy as SheEO of Buzz Builder (BMC), a consulting firm that creates marketing and branding strategies for their clients She is also very excited to be a member of a progressive group of women who are both intelligent and most important, actionable: P.O.W.E.R. This year Amelia has launched her first book that is an executive’s handbook on female diversity training, “SheEO vs CEO.” She hopes her book will help unify the gender divide in corporate America. Amelia believes that the “us against them” divide is part of the problem. Instead, she wants to help create a platform and conversation that will generate understanding and acceptance of our differences with a focus on the similarities that propel success. Her new TV shows “Different Views One Voice” on MNN, “The Listening Room” (soon to be on UBCTVNetwork.com) and a podcast launching January 2020 enable her to enjoy her passion, which is telling other’s stories and discovering new ideologies. This passion also extends to her other passion which is writing for Floss Magazine and formerly for Bronze Magazine, where she appeared on the cover last year. Amelia’s ministry is about education, child advocacy and women’s empowerment. Acknowledged for her work, Amelia recently became a recipient of the Schneps Media Powerful Women in Business Award. Other awards include the Black Excellence in Business Award from Tennessee State, a Proclamation from Brooklyn Borough President, Eric Adams, for her dedication to women’s empowerment, and a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Congressional Member Grace Meng. Amelia is always seeking what she can do next to help make tomorrow better than today. In August of 2018 she received a letter of recognition from NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio for her work with a South Bronx step team who stopped gun violence in their community for 276 days. Whether it’s speaking in front of the United Nations NGO Center for Media and Peace Initiatives, the U.S. Chinese Chamber of Commerce, National Black MBA Association or the Far Rockaway PTA, Amelia welcomes any opportunity to teach, inform and advocate for generate progressive communication for positive social change where a women is judged by her skillset and not her gender. ameliaismore.blogspot.com 64 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Sheena Pasricha Occupational Therapist and Certified Hand Therapist Sheena Pasricha OT, CHT, a dedicated and experienced Occupational Therapist and Certified Hand Therapist, has been helping New Jersey communities restore their mobility and get their lives back for 18 years. After receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), Sheena went on to earn her Advanced Certification in Hand and Upper Quadrant Rehabilitation from Drexel University.

Certifications 9 Advanced Splinting 9 Trauma 9 Wound Care 9 Complex Hand/Nerve Injuries 9 Fracture Management 9 Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE)

9 9 9 9 9 9

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) Kinesio Taping Level II Practitioner Bioness Saebo mCIT PAMS

Memberships 9 New Jersey Occupational Therapy Association (NJOTA) 9 American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT) 9 Hand Therapy Certification Commission (HTCC) Sheena is well-versed in treating complex traumatic injuries, as well as various levels of spinal cord injured patients. Sheena treats patients at the Montclair-Greenwood location and also leads Professional Physical Therapy’s occupational and hand therapy team in New Jersey, mentoring and training young hand therapists at 11 locations.

Hand Therapy is offered at the following New Jersey locations: Emerson 440 Old Hook Road 201 497 6752

Hoboken 5 Marine View Plaza, Suite 405 201 683 8058

Nutley Midtown 160 Franklin Avenue 973 667 0429

Union 2333 Morris Avenue, Suite B-105 908 686 8766

Englewood 177 N. Dean Street, Suite 302 201 408 4477

Montclair 1 Greenwood Avenue 973 746 2424

Parsippany 3053 Route 46E 973 331 3790

West Orange 405 Northfield Avenue, Suite LL1 973 731 1950

Hackensack 250 River Street 201 820 3730

Morristown 21 Headquarters Plaza (Lower Lobby) 973 993 9500

Somerset 7 Cedar Grove Lane, Suite 39 732 469 5680

To schedule a Hand Therapy appointment in NJ, please call 844.470.2671 professionalpt.com New York

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P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 75

Chimene M. Van Gundy C himene Van Gundy is a real estate investor and entrepreneur with Outstanding Real Estate Solutions, Inc. and Mobile Home Millions, LLC, who invests in mobile homes and mobile home parks, which provide affordable housing to people across the U.S. After completing her B.A. Magna Cum Laude in Criminal Justice from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2006, she worked multiple jobs in the corporate world and served as the lead paralegal for several different law firms. After being laid off in 2015, Chimene decided that rather than working for another corporation she would be her own boss. She read the novel “Rich Dad Poor Dad” which became a wakeup call for her and changed her life. Having spent time in and out of the foster care system, no one taught her about money, credit, or budgets. So, after hearing her husband say “I believe in you” she took some real estate education classes, found a mentor and the rest is history. A true entrepreneur, Chimene runs and manages five different companies. She is known as the “The Mobile Home Millionaire” and “Queen of Mobile Homes” because she has fixed, flipped, and wholesaled more than 500 units to date, all in four years. She does business in 11 states and has taken her business international as well, rehabbing mobile homes in Ireland where they are called “Holiday Homes.” She is a member of W.R.E.N. Chimene serves as a featured writer for Think Realty magazine, where she educates others on the mobile home asset class. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her five children, horseback riding, dancing, musicals, ballet, theater and animals.

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Real Estate Investor and Entrepreneur Outstanding Real Estate Solutions, Inc. and Mobile Home Millions, LLC What is the one book you recommend our community should read and why? “The ONE Thing,” which talks about how we all have our own “genius” zone and should improve and refine it. Once done, we can become wealthy using it. What is the best $100 you recently spent? What did you buy and why? I got a massage. I am all about self-care. This is vital when you are building a business or organization. What advice would you give your younger self? To not worry about what other people think. It is none of my business what others’ opinions are of me. I will continue to always pursue my dreams. How did you get started in your field or industry? I read “Rich Dad Poor Dad” which changed my perspective on money and assets. I quickly noticed the need for mobile homes and affording housing. I forged my way through this. What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in your industry? Real estate is primarily dominated by men. I am constantly educating others that manufactured housing or mobile homes are not trailer trash. What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed? Stay laser focused and communicate well. If you do this, success will follow. In this area, we beat men hands down. Form relationships because your network is your net worth. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means having the freedom to choose what you do and dictate your worth and value, instead of someone else. www.mobilehomemillions.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 77

Join the Movement

IT’S TIME TO

TAKE ACTION & LIVE FREE Chimene Van Gundy, the ‘Queen of Mobile Homes’, shares her secrets to becoming a Mobile Home Millionaire.

Go to https://www.mobilehomemillions.com for webinar schedules.