SWM September 2012 Issue by Barbara McSpadden

September 2012

sports:

A GO RED FOR WOMEN UPDATE:

THE BETTERU CHALLENGE

WOMEN’S star ballplayers COME TO THE ‘CUSE

SWM WOMEN INSPIRE: SUZANNE DeFURIA DR. JUDITH MOWER LAURIE LIECHTY

CNY’S SOCIAL MEDIA MAVERICK w w w. s y r ac u s e wo m a n m ag . c o m

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2012

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ETC PLATTER CHATTER

FASHION FORWARD

WORLD OF WOMEN’S SPORTS

SPECIAL FEATURE: WHITNEY DANIELS

WISE WOMEN

W.B.O.C.’S LEADING WOMAN

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

COVER STORY: ANNE MESSENGER

SPECIAL FEATURE: WOMEN’S BASEBALL 31 SPECIAL FEATURE: GO RED FOR WOMEN 32 SYRACUSE WOMEN INSPIRE

LOCAL BUSINESS MATTERS

TIPS FOR WOMEN: OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS

LOCAL SCENE

HEALTHY WOMAN: MEDICATION SAFETY 44 FITNESS: YOGA & ENTREPRENEURSHIP

SYRACUSE WOMAN MAGAZINE EVENTS 48

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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STAY GOLF MEET SPA DINE ENTERTAINMENT CASINO

Top 100 Spas of 2011

It’s your turn to wow.

–Spas of America

New season, renewed you! Be ready for the fall social calendar with a radiant and refreshed look. Start with 20% off any hair service at Skaná Spa in September. Then come back on Saturday, September 29, from 12-5 p.m. for our Fall Makeover Event. Learn how to get your glow on with tips from the pros at Oribe Hair Care and jane iredale –THE SKIN CARE MAKEUP. Enjoy light refreshments, free gift with purchase plus a contest for other fab prizes. Brilliant! Our appointment book is filling fast! Call 315.361.8200 to book yours!

5218 Patrick Road • Verona, New York • turningstone.com/skana

OUR TEAM... Publishers

Kelly Breuer Barbara McSpadden

Editor-in-Chief

Barbara McSpadden

Editor

Letter from the editor “There are two types of people: The ones who give you 50 reasons it can’t be done…and the ones who just do it.” — Hoda Kotb Getting things done, now that’s what I like to hear! Thank goodness for the wonderful women of Central New York, because you ladies truly get the job done — every day! This month’s edition salutes women entrepreneurs and women making waves in the CNY business scene. This edition could have been endless in content because the women in this area are anything but boring or unmotivated. You’re all driven by different passions, creativity, knowledge and a thirst to achieve greatness at the next level. You’re always looking ahead. Speaking of looking ahead, our fabulously successful cover woman, Anne Messenger, is a prime example of this common business aspect. When you turn to page 26, you’ll learn that this “Social Media Maverick” was ahead of her time. She brought her empire, Messenger Associates, into the technology era before many of her colleagues even caught wind of it. Now, that’s being intelligent, driven and audacious — that’s called being a “Syracuse Woman”. Also, in this edition you will learn about several amazing women entrepreneurs that are paving the way in their respective fields. Flip to page 35 to learn about this month’s inspiring women: Laurie Liechty, Suzanne DeFuria and Dr. Judith Mower. As all of you might have seen on CNYcentral, YNN, WCNY or WSYR9, or heard on MOVIN 100.3 or Sunny 102; we were the talk of the town for our debut fashion show to celebrate real women! We organized and developed the first fashion show to be held at Destiny USA with the SWM Runway Celebration on Aug. 16 in the new Canyon Area. We were honored to see such a great community turnout for this event that benefited Ophelia’s Place in Liverpool. The event raised more than $3,600 and stood by this message: A woman is not defined by her dress size. Turn to page 48 to see some glamorous photos of our Runway Divas and the Syracuse area male TV anchors that were a part of the surprise finale! More strong women on the CNY scene were this year’s Iron Girls. We would like to extend congratulations to all the women that both attempted or completed the 2012 Athleta Iron Girl Syracuse Sprint Triathlon on Aug. 5 at Oneida Shores. There were a few women that didn’t make it to race day because of road accidents or health issues that claimed their lives, and this was an important aspect for all us athletes to reflect on before the race began. It was a beautiful event that both SWM and I were proud to be a part of. Lastly, SWM would like to express its condolences to the family of Saundra Smokes, 57, a talented and award-winning journalist and radio host, who suddenly passed away in early August. Her voice and her words touched so many people. Personally, it was a pleasure to have met her and to have the opportunity to talk to her about civil rights and the role of women in the media. “Sandi” will always be an inspiring and influential Syracuse Woman. Like always, keep track of us and stay abreast of all our events by “liking” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SyracuseWomanMagazine and follow us on Twitter, @SyrWomanMag.

Farah F. Jadran

ON OUR COVER… Cindy Bell, of Focus Studio, 900 N. Salina St. in Syracuse, shot our September cover inside the Warren Street Key Bank in Syracuse. Photographed is Anne Messenger, founder and president of Messenger Associates, and Syracuse Chapter Chair of the Women Presidents Organization.

Farah F. Jadran

Creative DIRECTOR Kelly Breuer

graphic design Jessica Bates Melissa Meritt

Photography Cindy Bell Kelly Kane Raine Dufrane Cathryn Lahm Sean K. Harp

Contributing Writers Sarah Jane Clifford Farah F. Jadran Amber Lynn Brenza Theresa Harris Alyssa LaFaro Caroline Tisdell Andrea Wandersee Jill Zimmerman

advertising manager Renee Moonan

for advertising information:

Please contact Renee Moonan (315) 657-7690

Advertise with us...

Unlike any other publication in the Syracuse area, our feature articles address major topics that interest local women. Each issue includes articles on health, fashion, fitness, finance, home matters, dining, lifestyle and personal perspectives, as well as a spotlight on local Syracuse women. Ads are due on the 15th of the month prior to publication. The print magazines will be distributed locally in over 350 locations and will be in your inbox electronically by the middle of every month. The publication is available free of charge. Contact our home office 315.434.8889 2501 James Street, Suite 100 Syracuse, NY 13206 info@syracusewomanmag.com Download our media kit at www.syracusewomanmag.com The magazine is published 10 times a year by InnovateHER Media Group, llc. and Eagle Publications, 2501 James Street, Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13206. Copyright © 2012 InnovateHER Media Group, llc. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or republished without the consent of the publishers. Rochester Woman Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts, photos or artwork. All such submissions become the property of InnovateHER Media Group, llc. and will not be returned.

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september movies...

9/7

9/14

9/21

9/28

A writer at the peak of success discovers the price he must pay for stealing another man’s work. Starring Bradley Cooper, Oscar® winner Jeremy Irons, Dennis Quaid, Olivia Wilde and Zoe Saldana, this romantic drama follows young writer Rory Jansen who finally achieves long sought after literary success after publishing the next great American novel. There’s only one catch - he didn’t write it. The comedic and eventful journeys of two fish - Marlin and his son Nemo - who become separated in the Great Barrier Reef when Nemo is unexpectedly taken far from home and thrust into a fish tank in a dentist’s office overlooking Sydney harbor. Buoyed by the companionship of a friendlybut-forgetful fish named Dory, embarks on a dangerous trek and finds himself the unlikely hero of an epic journey. Now in 3D. Gus Lobel (Clint Eastwood) has been one of the best scouts in baseball for decades, but, despite his efforts to hide it, age is starting to catch up with him. Nevertheless, Gus--who can tell a pitch just by the crack of the bat--refuses to be benched for what may be the final innings of his career. He may not have a choice. The front office of the Atlanta Braves is starting to question his judgment. In the futuristic action thriller Looper, time travel will be invented – but it will be illegal and only available on the black market. When the mob wants to get rid of someone, they will send their target 30 years into the past, where a “looper” – a hired gun, like Joe (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) – is waiting to mop up. Joe is getting rich and life is good… until the day the mob decides to “close the loop,” sending back Joe’s future self (Bruce Willis) for assassination.

HANDBAGS HELPING HEARTS

PARIS HAS DINER EN BLANC. SYRACUSE HAS MISSION ALFRESCO…

Want a ladies night that also benefits Go Red For Women? Look no further, and attend the Handbags Helping Hearts purse auction! This event is a “girls night out” that features a silent auction of purses filled with amazing goodies. This Go Red For Women fundraising event will run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 20, at the Stickley, Audi & Co. Showroom in the Fayetteville Towne Center, 300 Towne Drive, Fayetteville. Syracuse Woman Magazine, the exclusive magazine for the Go Red For Women Syracuse campaign since 2011, also will also be present to help spread heart health awareness. The event will be emceed by 93Q’s Amy Robbins and will feature several speakers, including longtime American Heart Association supporter and president and CEO of Stickley, Audi & Co., Aminy Audi. Also in attendance will be Go Red For Women Chair Susan Crossett. The evening also will feature hors d’oeuvres, wine and a red hot purse auction! Why is this event important to you? Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women age 20 and over, killing approximately one woman every minute. More women die of heart disease than the next four causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer. Eighty percent of cardiac events in women may be prevented if they make the right choices for their hearts, involving diet, exercise and abstinence from smoking.

In celebration of the Rescue Mission’s 125th Anniversary, we invite you to join us for an exciting outdoor dining experience that will prove to be the event sensation of the year. Come gather with Syracuse Woman Magazine and the community of Rescue Mission supporters from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 14. For $20 admission, you will have the grand privilege to participate in a “do it yourself” outdoor dining event in a public space in Syracuse. Where, you ask? The location will remain a secret until 4 p.m. on the day of the event. You will receive a text or email revealing the location. You’ll also find the secret location that day on the SWM Facebook page, www.facebook.com/SyracuseWomanMagazine. This day was designed to have all participants (dressed in red) gather for a three-course picnic meal, table, chairs, red linen and table settings. You will then set up your dining area and enjoy the rest of the evening with friends in a lovely setting and with great entertainment. Tables and chairs will be offered with $25 reservations for two. Need more help? You also may order a picnic basket ($40 or $60). Each basket prepared by Diamond Catering serves two people. Visit www.rm125.org and click on the Mission Alfresco link for more information and reservations. We’ll see you there! Thank you for supporting the Rescue Mission!

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TRADITIONAL, LOCAL

SENECAFEDERAL.COM

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN: BALDWINSVILLE NORTH SYRACUSE LIVERPOOL

hometown banking. Meet Janice MacDonald, VP-Corporate Secretary at Seneca Federal Savings and Loan Association, an 83 year-old banking Association. Janice began her 25-year career as a Teller in the Baldwinsville office. Janice goes beyond being a dedicated employee. Aside from all the many typical Corporate Secretary duties, she maintains a substantial commercial loan portfolio for the Association. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Janice is a pleasure to work with and teaches us all something about dedication, perseverance and the importance of providing a personal and community-based banking experience. Janice is the depiction of what a community bank is all about at its core through her development of long-term, mutually beneficial relationships at the Association,â&#x20AC;? said Katrina Russo, President-CEO. Janice can be found in the Main Office in Baldwinsville.

Seneca Federal...since 1928 Janice MacDonald, Vice President

Corporate Secretary of Seneca Federal Savings and Loan Association

Call 315-638-0233 or visit senecafederal.com to find out more about a bank dedicated to the local community

Each depositor insured to at least $250,000

Temporarily increased from $100,000 to $250,000 through 12/31/2013

You’ve been Lost but now… you’re BY AMBER BRENZA I PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY KANE In a life that seems to get faster by the minute, Abigail Henson is focused on urging people to slow things down. Henson is the owner of Lost & Fondue, a new eatery located in Skaneateles, which opened June 30. And although it’s a quaint little restaurant that lives off the beaten path, it has already acquired quite a bit of attention for its healthy options and slow food environment. “People feel like they’ve found a small treasure when they find us,” she says. “We only really have space for 15 people, but it makes those people feel like they’re in our home.” Henson came up with the idea of Lost & Fondue for the South Side Innovation Center’s business plan competition in May, which she ultimately won. She has proudly had a 15year love affair with the culinary arts. “I had always wanted to open my own shop,” she says. “I went through all of the small steps in learning the food industry and really fell in love with the culinary arts side of things.” After attending the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City for a degree in marketing and international trade, Henson took a year off, only to return to her old stomping grounds to study at the National Gourmet Institute. But the NGI isn’t your average culinary school, focusing on training chefs to use local, organic cuisine, rather than classic culinary techniques. Henson began thinking more seriously about opening her own eatery after meeting her companion, Jonathan. “We love eating local food, collecting antiques, and exploring the Finger Lakes,” she says. “We just wanted to share that with others.” And from this love of food and antiques, came the name of Lost & Fondue for Henson’s restaurant. “The ‘Lost’ side is the antiques that occupy the restaurant, and then ‘Fondue’ pulls in the culinary aspect,” she says. “I also really loved the definition of fondue, which is ‘to join together and make a change.’ That’s what I wanted to represent and accomplish.” That definition of fondue doesn’t only apply to the delectable cheese dish of the same name at Lost & Fondue. Henson reinvents classic meals with a modern-day, healthful twist. Two menu favorites include twists on two well-known sandwiches. The “Ruby” is Henson’s

interpretation of a classic reuben. “It has corned beef, marinated purple cabbage, and spicy mayo — a kind of Thai fusion flavor,” she says. The classic chicken salad sandwich also gets a makeover, a la Henson, with quinoa and tofu making an unexpected appearance. But if you think soups, salads, and sandwiches are the only offerings at Lost & Fondue, think again. Henson’s restaurant offers a plethora of high quality teas. “I wouldn’t call this place a tea house, but it’s definitely tea-centric,” she says. “Not only do you see it more than any other beverage on the menu, but we also use it as a spice in many dishes.” Lost & Fondue isn’t just a restaurant that serves healthful options in a comfortable setting; it’s on a mission to slow down the process and social aspect of eating. “We’re trying to bring romance back into food,” Henson says. “This is a place where people can come to catch up and slow down.” Lost & Fondue offers many options for those with dietary restrictions, as well as those who enjoy healthier opponents to fast food and a nice cup of tea. For more information, visit their website, www.lostandfondue.com.

Fashion, function and fun – that is Paulette Peters’ mission. The Baldwinsville fashionista and owner of Mod Squad Fashion, LTD, is closing in on her first year as a business owner. It is also her first launch into fashion. “It is so much fun for me to keep up on what is new and hot, and I love it when I find things that are truly unique,” Paulette said. “After many years outfitting my family, adding my own flair to the ordinary business attire and somehow finding a way to make pregnancy look good, I wanted to share my fashion sense and stylish finds with moms and girlfriends everywhere.” The result was Mod Squad Fashion, “a hip, trendy and cute women’s fashion boutique” with unique clothing and accessories. “We carry lines such as Brighton, Miss Me, Fresh Produce, Santiki, Love this Life and more,” Paulette said, adding her mission is to provide current, versatile clothing and trends to the modern woman. She also does her homework to make sure she is capturing the most current fashion styles. “I am always inspired by fashion blogs, the Style Network channel, Twitter and celebrities,” she said. While Paulette said she has always loved fashion, her decision to open her own boutique came after she came to a crossroad in her previous position. “For more than 17 years I worked in production planning at Anheuser-Busch in Baldwinsville,” Paulette said. “It was an amazing experience, and a wonderful career. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to gain so much knowledge and experience from an admired, top Fortune 500 company.” After feeling as though she was at a standstill in her career at Anheuser-Busch, Paulette made the move to open Mod Squad Fashion combining her passion for fashion with the business savvy she acquired from her years of experience at AnheuserBusch. Her combination has paid off as Mod Squad Fashion will celebrate a year in operation on Oct. 1. “Through Mod Squad Fashion, I pay close attention to what my customers want and are looking for. I talk to every single one of my customers that come in to get feedback on how they feel about certain styles and lines that I have coming in,” she said. Paulette also utilizes Facebook to keep the lines of communication open with her patrons, posting her own fashion thoughts and encouraging responses. “I see what my customers think because I value their feedback,” Paulette said. “I welcome ideas, and will look into any lines that my customers love. I learned that it is not only about what I like and think is cool, it’s about listening to my customers — I am grateful for every single one of them.” Mod Squad Fashion is located in Market Fair North, 4160 State Route 31, Clay. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday. Check out online fashions at modsquadfashion.com. Erin Wisneski is a contributing writer to Syracuse Woman Magazine and the editor of the Baldwinsville Messenger.

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

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One of the things that struck me about the 2012 Olympic Games held last month in London was the variety of athletes who participated in the many events. Athletes of all different ethnicities, shapes, sizes, cultures, creeds, values, and attitudes have always been well-represented in the games. It brought to mind the recent furor raised about Upstate New York’s very own Abby Wambach appearing nude in ESPN Magazine’s fourth annual “Body Issue.” The issue featured approximately 27 male and female sports figures showing off their astounding physique in tasteful poses throughout the spread. “Abby Wambach had never been considered bashful, so it’s no surprise that when the U.S. soccer star was asked if she’d be interested in posing nude, she didn’t blink,” wrote the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle’s Jeff DiVeronica. DiVeronica’s D&C colleague Leo Roth contrastingly penned, “Abby in the buff? One of Rochester’s greatest athletes stripping down for a national sports magazine? The all-American girl, Olympic and professional soccer icon, role model to legions of impressionable kids? Knock me over with a Nerf soccer ball.” My feeling is Abby and the other athletes who participated in the issue were serving a very useful purpose: displaying the diversity that is and should be a key element in the athletics. Abby herself said, “I would be lying if I told you that I wasn’t a little bit skeptical of showing my body to the world. But for the most part, I’ve always been confident in the way my body looks. There are so many factors that are out of your control: different shapes, sizes, heights, weights, where you store fat. But there are also many factors that are in our control, such as nutrition and exercise. During my life, I wasn’t trying to be the prettiest; I was trying to develop my strength and confidence.” As proven by simply looking at the photographs in ESPN, Wambach has definitely developed strength and confidence. You can see why she has been so successful in her chosen career. “The way I play the game is physical,” Wambach says. “I want to get into a physical battle with the defender. I want to go oneon-one because I believe not only in my strength but also in my skill and ability to beat my defender. When you play soccer, you are going to get cut, you are going to get bruised and maybe even break your leg.” …Or get a black eye from an opponent’s sucker punch as happened to Wambach during the recent Olympic Games! Wambach told DiVeronica, “It’s not about being a sex symbol, it’s about being proud of your body in whatever shape or form it is.” Having been around athletes … in particular gymnastics athletes for many, many years … I couldn’t agree with her more. I’m proud about her being proud about her body. If you have information, ideas, comments or suggestions for “World Of Women Sports,” please contact Sarah Jane Clifford at 585/3888686. Her e-mail is gtc@frontiernet.net. Clifford owns and operates The Gymnastics Training Center of Rochester, Inc., 2051 Fairport Nine Mile Point Rd., Penfield, NY 14526.

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

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“I had cancer. Cancer never had me.”

I remember that day - the day I found out. I was devastated and terrified. Thoughts of my children started racing through my head. “I can’t let them all down. I’ve got to fight!” HOA seemed to know everything I was feeling. When my doctors laid out my treatment plan in terms I could understand, I felt more determined with every word. I was amazed that HOA had treatments unavailable anywhere else in all of upstate NY! Your confidence, experience and inspirational outlook gave me such courage. Now here I am a year later, contemplating my daughter’s graduation and our upcoming family vacation. I had cancer, but because of HOA, cancer never had me.

ONONDAGA HILL SYRACUSE

BRITTONFIELD PARKWAY EAST SYRACUSE

WEST TAFT ROAD LIVERPOOL

W. GENESEE STREET CAMILLUS

E. CHESTNUT STREET ROME

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At a young age, Whitney Daniels knew that she wanted to pursue her “artsy” side. She attended Carver Center for Arts and Technology in Towson, Md., which is an art magnet-high school. After graduation, she decided to venture to Central New York for college and received a bachelor of fine arts in communications design at Syracuse University. Whitney has always dreamed of having her very own design business and her passion for design and hard work paid off when she launched WRKDesigns. “Being your own boss and striving for your own goals is a wonderful thing. I just didn’t expect to start it so early in my life, but the stars aligned and worked in my favor,” Whitney said. Owning your own business, although fun and exciting, can be difficult at times. When you are the owner, you’re not just the designer. You’re also the sales person, marketer and accountant. Whitney enjoys teaming up with creative thinkers so she can incorporate both traditional and innovative ideas into the infrastructure of her business. “It is very rewarding when I improve the quality of my work and see the business grow.” “WRKDesigns is a full service surface pattern and graphic design studio. It provides graphic design, Web, print, trade show, promotional product and surface pattern design services.” Whitney pursued her own business because she was at a standstill in her career and needed a change. As of right now WRKDesigns is a home business, which helps Whitney to have a low overhead so that she can pass those savings along to her clients. Because WRKDesigns is a small business Whitney has established a laid back and creative atmosphere. “Having this kind of atmosphere makes my job a lot of fun, while still providing professional services to my clients. I certainly love what I do and think that is evident in my work.” Although, WRKDesigns is a young company it has done very well, especially in a challenged economy. It opened in 2010 and so far every year has been better than the last and Whitney anticipates this to continue in the future. “Whenever I get to a point where things seem slow and I start to get nervous, I get a rush of new work,” Whitney said. “I’ve been fortunate to have wonderful clients and I always look forward to the next project.”

RSVP TO Call Cr DAY! (space ys is informa tal Ross for limited) more tion or (315) to reg 443.8 ister at 466

Design by:

WRKDes igns

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september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

While on her computer, Whitney tends to browse various blogs that help spark inspiration in her next creations. When she is not browsing the Web she reviews her past designs and patterns for inspiration. She prides herself on designing things that her customers “will fall in love with,” and does whatever she can to make her customer happy. “When a business comes to me not really knowing specific marketing or design requirements saying, ‘do whatever you think is best’…that is when I think I really shine.” Whitney enjoys this kind of work because she has complete freedom to do whatever she feels is best for her client. While running her own business and learning what is needed to be successful Whitney suggests that any young designer should educate themselves not only about design, graphics and art, but also business, intellectual property law and finance. She encourages young designers to know for sure that they enjoy what they do to ensure their growth as both a person and a designer. Another important message that she harps on is to always learn from your mistakes. “Learning from your mistakes is cliché but it is true. Fix it, take your time, practice and you will get better…take risks, always think outside the fix and strive for excellence.” “Any woman can be as good as or better than any man in the same field. It is not about gender, it is about performance and attitude,” Whitney said. “Perseverance, positive attitude, talent and business sense are a few attributes necessary to succeed in business and in life.” In the future Whitney hopes that her business continues to grow especially the graphic design and surface pattern design aspect of her business. Whitney enjoys pattern design because it gives her the freedom to express her creativity. “People are creating décor and clothing from fabric I designed. There are home furnishings, notebooks and beauty products with my patterns that I created. It is very exciting to see items infused with my personal identity.” Whitney plans to continue with her pattern design and hopes to have the opportunity to take her surface pattern designs to sell and license in her own booth at the Printsource and Surtex shows in NYC. Learn more about WRKDesigns at www.wrkdesigns.com.

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PRESENTS

Y O U A R E I N V I T E D T O AT T E N D O U R

Please join the builders and members of the Home Builders & Remodelers of CNY on

Friday, September 7, 2012 at 6 p.m. for an elegant evening previewing 8 distinctive homes in the Parade of Homes at Riverwalk in Brewerton, Town of Clay. The courtesy of your reply is requested by Aug 31st. Attire: Country Club Casual

Ticket pricing and additional information: (315) 463.6261 or visit www.HBRcny.com

Destiny USA

09/30/12

FALL

event

HBRcny Raffle Prize: Chevy Cruze Eco, proceeds to benefit CNY Land Trust Catering provided by Diamond Catering

COLORS Save up to 30%*

For the price of white, select a woodgrain or one of our Italian-inspired LagoÂŽ finishes. dewitt | 3210 Erie Blvd. East | 315.701.4382 CaliforniaClosets.com/Syracuse ÂŠ2012 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Franchises independently owned and operated. *Offer valid through 09.30.12 at participating locations only. See showroom for details. Cannot be combined with other offers.

FEaturEd EntrEprEnEur Janet Detota

Owner, Janet Lee Photography & Safe and Sound Cat Sitting

any people take a photography class in high school, but few end up following that as a career path. The same went for Janet Detota, who

techniques, she spent much of her time becoming a master at her craft. “Needing to eat and sleep was quite inconvenient,” she recalls. Janet built

never envisioned herself becoming an entrepreneur, let alone a professional photographer. Beginning her career in the insurance industry, Janet soon realized she needed a creative outlet—a 9-to-5 desk job wasn’t for her.

her portfolio and experimented with new techniques by capturing images of children, nature, and cats—subjects she had readily at hand.

Opening a fabric art business and parttime cat sitting service, Janet renewed

Because her focus is on exceptional customer service (including in-person consults with clients before and after a session), Janet’s goals are to build

her creativity. In her spare time, she was taking photos of her children at

a rapport and learn what her client’s plans are for the images and assist

home and would always document family functions. Soon, friends and relatives started praising her photos— her natural entrepreneurial instinct kicked in, and she realized that her

in bringing them to completion. She wants her clients to see the images they create together as art and not just photographs, and hopes they will display them in their home to enjoy

passion for making meaningful images could be her next business venture.

every day.

Keeping the cat sitting business to part-time hours, Janet delved deep into the world of photography. From online

instincts, whether starting a new business or making a tough decision. Heeding her own advice, she is

message boards, classes, shooting countless pictures, and hours in front of the computer trying new editing

turning her love of photography into a growing business!

Janet encourages people to trust their

wise words of wisdom…

PAGE DESIGN BY ISCA DESIGN STUDIO // PHOTO BY JANET DETOTA

“Trust your instincts.” – Janet Detota

WISE WISE HappEnIngS: HappEnIngS: Women’s Roundtable Discussions

TechSpeak for Entrepreneurs

WHEn: September 19, 12:00 – 1:00Pm WHERE: WISE Women’s Business Center at The Tech Garden, 235 Harrison St., Syracuse

WHEn: September 20-21, 8:00Am – 5:00Pm WHERE: New York City

As a woman in business, you value the support of other women professionals. Talk out the challenges with 10 other women over lunch!

Learn to communicate with, understand, and manage your technology teams and projects. Led by WISE speaker Nelly Yusupova.

The Building Blocks for Starting a Business WHEn: September 26, 5:30 – 7:00Pm WHERE: WISE Women’s Business Center at The Tech Garden, 235 Harrison St., Syracuse You are unique! And so is your business idea! But how can you translate all of that into a business?

A women’s business center… run for women, by women.

FInd uS on:

WISE Women’s Business Center // The Tech Garden // 235 Harrison St. // Syracuse, NY 13205 // (315) 443-8634 // jmlenwea@syr.edu

A PROGRAM OF THE FALCONE CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least 2 weeks in advance. Call (315) 443-8634.

INTERIOR DECORATION

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Jeannine Masucci is a Women Business Opportunities Connection veteran. She may not have been there from day one, but she’s stuck around for the ride for the past 10 years. “Women come and go,” she explained. “I’m one of the older ones — I’m 61 now — at this point. But I am learning from the younger business people. They are so energetic and have great ideas. That’s what keeps me going after all these years.” Many would never admit they can learn from their juniors, those who have spent less time in this crazy world. Jeannine, however, embraces youth and the newness that comes with it, and not just at WBOC, but in her business, too. Jeannine owns Manlius Jewelry and Repair, along with her daughter, Lauren. She started the business 17 years ago, and her husband and daughter are creators of the brainchild. “My husband, a retired physical education teacher, was, at the time, selling jewelry on the side, oddly enough,” laughed Jeannine. “We have a really fantastic jewelry repair person in our town that we became close to. My daughter had spoken to her, and she talked her into going to Jeweler School. Basically, she worked for a jeweler for a few years, and then my husband said, ‘I think we should open a business.’” For a while, all customers thought the business did was jewelry repairs because of the word “repair” in the name of the store. It took time for Jeannine to build a customer base interested in purchasing jewelry, making them aware that Manlius Jewelry and Repair offered that service as well. WBOC helped here. “We have had a lot of WBOC members become customers of ours. We, in turn, try to reciprocate that business. As we go along and meet new members from WBOC, we find out what their business is, and if we need a product they have, then we go to those people first.” Jeannine and her daughter, Lauren, are in full support of sustaining local businesses. “People like the fact that we are local,” she said. “We even have a big campaign going on with the Manlius Chamber of Commerce that is in support of local business owners.” People also like the fact that Jeannine and her daughter are women. This sounds odd, but Jeannine says this is a good thing, as it’s sometimes difficult to get customers into the store because of that fact. “In our business, there are not too many female jewelers. It’s a special thing. Once people got over that stigma, we started getting a lot more business. Women liked coming to us because they felt empowered. Many of the male customers appreciate a woman’s perspective, too.” It’s a good thing the people of Manlius have accepted the Masuccis into their community because women will run the jewelry store for a long time. Lauren, Jeannine’s only daughter, is a graduate gemologist — something that is rare in the profession today. “Not only is she an expert in diamonds and colored stones, but whatever anyone needs to know she can tell them,” explained Jeannine. “She fixes everything, but also brings all this other information to the table. Most big jewelry stores don’t have a graduate gemologist, and not too many women are in that field.” The future looks bright for Jeannine’s daughter, and perhaps, as Lauren takes over the business in the future, the WBOC torch will be passed down to her, and she will be able to utilize it and, eventually, become a veteran just like her mother. The WBOC is a local non-profit organization that has been providing support to women and access to innovative events and workshops for 20 years. Whether running our own business, working for an employer or launching a new endeavor, women are connected through their entrepreneurial mindset. Syracuse Woman Magazine is a WBOC signature sponsor that aims to promote a common mission. For information on how to become a member, visit www.wboconnection.org.

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

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::SHIFT+CONTROL Many Central New York families use their summer vacation to take a family trip. This year, Fayetteville resident Stevi Wilson took the opportunity to bring her two daughters to a warm, tropical climate with white sand beaches and blue-green water. Paradise, right? For Stevi, Nora, 8, and Olivia, 14, the paradise was not necessarily the place they visited, but its people. This “vacation” was, in fact, a mission that has become a passion for the three Wilson women. The trio, along with other mothers, children and students, visited Emiliano Tardif Hogar (hogar is orphanage in Spanish) and its special inhabitants. Located in the Dominican Republic, the orphanage houses anywhere from 20 to 45 children at any given time. Stevi, a Spanish teacher at East Syracuse-Minoa High School, has been making such visits with her daughter Olivia to the Dominican Republic since 2006. This trip, made in July, was Nora’s first. Stevi has been a Spanish teacher for 25 years and used to travel around Latin America and take classes, but she decided she wanted to do volunteer work. “We actually help at a couple of orphanages and always go to Mustard Seed, an orphanage for disabled children. I was shocked by how much is needed — these babies were found in garbage dumpsters and toilet bowls. One of the groups I brought raised enough money to put in a well there.” One little girl, just 18 months old, was found tied to garbage at a dump, Stevi said. “She was terrified when she first came to the orphanage. She was so afraid of adults she wouldn’t even look up. She would eat garbage and people would make fun of her, but now she’s just all smiles,” Stevi said. “When I see this I know that there is progress and growth.” Olivia said she won’t forget one of the orphan’s stories. “The orphanage would always try to find the parents, in order to bring the family back together,”

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

she said. “They brought one girl to her father, who said, ‘Don’t leave her here. I will kill her if you do.’ You think that these parents might be looking for their children, but they’re not.” At the Emiliano Tardiff Orphanage “the children are well-cared-for, but the fact is they are alone,” Stevi said. “They don’t have a mother, they don’t have a father.” Olivia, who will be a freshman at Fayetteville-Manlius High School this fall, said the orphanage’s name is appropriate. “The reason it’s called Mustard Seed is that it’s a little seed but it grows to be the biggest plant,” she said. “Just like the kids start out small but grow.” So, what do Nora and Olivia do when visiting the orphanage? “We play with them, take them on field trips and do crafts with them,” Nora, who enters third grade at Fayetteville Elementary in the fall, said. “This year we took them bowling, which was something they’d never done, and one of the girls tried to kick the ball down the lane,” she added with a laugh. Nora’s favorite thing to do was take the children for ice cream, a special treat. She said she was happy to finally be able to go on the trip with her mother. Spending time in the Dominican Republic has changed the way the Wilsons look at life. “In America we can turn on the faucet for drinking water or open the fridge for food, but in the Dominican Republic it is so different — kids don’t have these things,” Stevi said. “They appreciate things more, and know they can help and pitch in to make the children’s circumstance better.” Want to help? Stevi and her volunteers are currently fundraising to build a house, including housing for volunteers, for the orphans as well as to provide school supplies and food. Information about donations, volunteering or participating on an upcoming trip can be received by emailing suibst@yahoo.com.

WOMEN PRESIDENTS’ ORGANIZATION – SYRACUSE CHAPTER

Cherie Allred, Allred & Associates, Inc.; Suzanne DeFuria, Potter Heating & Air Conditioning; Carri Allen Jones, MD, New York Spine & Wellness; Rita L. Reicher, Ph.D., KS&R; Nicole Samolis, The Events Company; Margery Lange Keskin, Statewide Aquastore, Inc., J. Andrew Lange, Inc. and CRAL Contracting, Inc.; Carol Fletcher, CR Fletcher Associates, Inc.; Zina Berry, DDS, Berry Good Dental Care, P.C.; Eileen Brophy, Brophy Services; Jo Anne Gagliano, Environmental Design & Research, P.C.; Karyn Korteling, Pastabilities & Pasta’s Daily Bread and Noodle, Inc.; Cynthia Scott, OMC Financial Services; Janet D. Callahan, Managing Partner of Hancock & Estabrook, LLP; Karen Goetz, Inforia, Inc.; Anne Messenger, Messenger Associates, Inc.; Theresa Slater, Empire Interpreting Service; Gail Cowley, Cowley Associates, Inc.; Madelyn Hornstein, CEO of Dermody, Burke & Brown, CPAs, LLC; Shari Phillips, E-Rate Exchange, LLC; Lynn Steenberg, SportsPT.

#MustFollow If this hashtag hasn’t been specifically assigned to someone yet, it should be used when referencing Anne Messenger. Anne personifies the telltale characteristics of a successful entrepreneur: the ability to envision a market opportunity and the courage to capitalize on it. She’s the founder and president of Messenger Associates, a leading employment outplacement agency, and she’s embraced the ever-changing Communications Age to grow her business to new heights. As of Sept. 1, Messenger Associates celebrates 15 years in business. But this “big deal” anniversary actually came as a surprise while we sat in

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

the waiting area of her “office” — also known as her home in Manlius. I asked her how many years she had been in business and the counting began… “That’s amazing!” Anne exclaimed. “I just realized that. When people ask me, I say it has been 10 years, 12…15…I’m too busy, that’s really amazing. This will be a celebratory issue [of Syracuse Woman Magazine] for me!” While Anne’s office address is at her home in Manlius, her definition of the term is very different. Her office may be in an elevator, or at Freedom of Espresso, or at a corner table in Pastabilities. It may be in a terminal at Syracuse Hancock International Airport, walking up and down any given street in Central New York, or inside a parked car. Anne’s office, over

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the past few years, has become a mobile operation. “You have to keep moving,” she said. And moving, she has done in great stride. THE PALM OF HER HAND

Her beautifully decorated office is mainly a basic black, has clean lines, smooth curves and shatter-resistant glass. Also, it can fit in the palm of her hand. No, she hasn’t invented a shrinking mechanism for buildings; rather, her office is her iPhone. She’s accomplished. She’s driven. She’s never out of the office. She’s never without her “BFF” — Siri. Why the sleek, techy and mobile approach? It’s simpl. The business world has evolved and the way we do business has changed as well. In addition,

the once new and embryonic thought of social media is now a full-grown monster taking over the world. Whether it’s Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, Hootsuite or a blog engine, social media is now a staple in modern business plans. “Clients find us via social media,” Anne said. Besides the virtual grasp on the market, Anne says social media and technology has made her business stronger and more feasible. While listing off tools like Skype, WebX, Yammer, Twitter and Linkedin, she paused and said, “I can’t even think of all the things we have.” To Anne, being mobile means having freedom. This liberty can be the simplest thing like walking around as she conducts business. “This is my freedom,” she said as she showed me her hands-free syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2012

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ear device. “I can pace around, it gets the juices going.” All the phones in her home are wired to her work extension so she’s ready to go, no matter where in her spacious home she might be. You wouldn’t know it, but behind one small cupboard in her “office” are piles of phone equipment ready to be used when necessary for her or her employees. No matter where they are, everyone on the Messenger Team is connected through the same phone number: (315) 637-8141, with separate extensions so one can connect to Plattsburgh, Binghamton, Manlius, East Syracuse or Fayetteville. While social media, email and texting can get the job done (at times), Anne still believes you must see someone face-to-face to establish trust and understanding of a client’s needs. In Anne’s waiting area is a large flat screen mounted on the wall. She’s not ordering the newest Blockbuster hit for her clients; she’s conducting a videoconference via Skype. She also utilizes FaceTime on her phone. A VIRTUAL OFFICE: A FORESEEN FATE? “Not in a hundred years,” Anne said. “Fifteen years ago, it would have been a negative to do outplacement without a space.” When Anne first opened her business, finding the right location was a high priority. The lush and luxurious business spaces of Greenfield Parkway in Liverpool became the place to be. “I bought the best furniture and had an executive office.” For many years, this setup was perfect… until 2006. Prior to that, the office was humming with people who had just lost their jobs and were sharpening their online skills or revising a resume to move forward. When clients came in for assistance with a job search or job placement, they needed a workspace. During this transition time, they needed a desk; they needed a phone (landline), and boardrooms for meetings and training. The office was set up for people to understand this: “Your new job is looking for a job!” But as people became more tied to cell phones and mobile technology, they began to use Messenger Associates’ services differently. While still utilizing the expertise of the firm, clients started working on finding a new job from home — or from anywhere else — hence the bricks and mortar office space became obsolete. “Nobody was coming to the office,” she said. While she and her crew knew there was a change on the horizon and they had to “make the jump,” the unknown waters were not approached with haste. “We held our breath,” Anne said. “Some people said it would hurt our credibility, but we researched and took an educated risk and went virtual.” That was six years ago, and Anne says she and her team couldn’t have read the signs any better. “I pinch myself that we made that decision, it was so right. Here’s our office right here!” She slapped the palm of her hand. “It’s my office in my hand.” And the stats back up their decision. In the past few years, social media users’ revenues grew at 19 percent versus non-social media users at 6 percent. Plus, 61 percent of Linkedin users gained a client through social media. A few days after our interview, Anne would take a vacation, but she assured me she would still be doing business. “I can be taking off on a trip and still doing business,” she said. “Nantucket, Chicago or Toronto. People don’t care as long as I get my job done.” Besides the ease of doing her job anywhere in the world, Anne said the position her company has claimed on the national scene has validated the mobile move. “Our geographic footprint is better, all over the U.S.,” she

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said. “We’re emailing, calling, texting, tweeting…” To look back now, at the business model she left behind, is simply unnecessary. POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA “We are so different today, so different,” she said of Messenger Associates. “We have a different type of staff, different facility, technology and social media…that wasn’t even a word back then!” Anne said she tries to picture doing business when there were fewer TV stations, a newspaper in her mailbox and the radio was on. “Social media was only two words. This was a mind-blowing transformation,” Anne explained. “Think of what social media has done: You can run a revolution or find a lawn mower repair guy. If that is the continuum, then finding a job is somewhere between those two extremes — that’s where we fit.” How Messenger Associates fits into that continuum, was unimaginable back then. “Social media is a tool and we developed an expertise.” Of all the platforms, LinkedIn is the “biggest tech tool for people to get” today, according to Anne. This surprised me because many of my friends and even my colleagues say that “LinkedIn is useless” and they don’t see the value. “It’s almost sad that people don’t understand it or make use of it [LinkedIn],” she said. “They’re gonna be lost if they don’t figure it out or don’t like it. They will be so far behind in a few years.” To look at LinkedIn, as only a “job search tool” is the wrong way to go, Anne said. “This reminds me of the time I had to make the decision about having Internet in my office. We didn’t know it was something that would stick. We don’t want to spend money on that, how dumb was that? My mistake!” “Certainly, LinkedIn is one of [job] recruiters’ biggest tools today. For people to get it, is critical,” Anne advised. Nowadays, Anne says she doesn’t think twice about using Google and LinkedIn before going to meet a client or possible customer. “Those are my top two tools in addition to that person’s company website.” She says social media has “made us visible” and that because of it, we’re better connected. “LinkedIn has become a part of networking and customer research,” she says. “It’s a wonderful way to find out about people what they do and how they’re doing it. I’ve only skimmed the surface of LinkedIn — Twitter is a whole other world! TWEETING MS. MESSENGER What is Twitter? “It’s the land for a job search and opportunity!” Anne said. But that’s only the beginning. Without social media, Anne says her business would be way more limited. “It would be harder to reach our audiences, more boring, less creative, unsuccessful, less connected…If I sat in this office, eight hours a day, with only the computer, all on phone and in meetings, I would be very limited.” The night before, Anne was having dinner with some women in the Syracuse Chapter of the Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO, we’ll get to this piece of the pie later), and she didn’t miss a beat. “I was at Pastabilities with five great women whom I love, but at times, we were all on our iPhones. We never stopped being connected though,” she said. “You cannot only be talking to people in Syracuse, that would be equally limiting.” Because of social media an owner of a nationwide manufacturing company found Messenger Associates. He arrived to meet Anne in person as I was walking down her home’s front steps to my car. “He found us by Googling ‘career transition’ and we were the first company he called,” Anne said. “It was through more social media that he figured out that we should

do business together.” The day before, they had a 20-minute phone conversation to talk about a business transaction that happened through social media. Now they would meet in person, look at some numbers and hopefully shake hands and make a deal. While Anne is largely in a virtual business realm, she said personal meetings are still needed. “Am I paperless? Absolutely not.” ALL THE WOMEN PRESIDENTS Anne is on top of her game as a leader in the outplacement field and the Twittersphere, so naturally there are some more accolades to her profile. Anne is the chair for the Syracuse chapter of the aforementioned WPO, a nonprofit member organization for women presidents of multimillion-dollar companies. The members of the WPO (www.womenpresidentsorg.com) take part in professional-facilitated peer advisory groups in order to bring the “genius out of the group” and accelerate the growth of their business. The WPO isn’t just in Syracuse, it’s on four continents and has 100 chapters and growing. Each chapter has 20 members, and believe it or not, this area needs another chapter because there are more members to add. Being that Key Bank is the WPO sponsor, the women meet in the downtown Warren Street board room once a month under Anne’s strict, unyielding meeting method, the way she was trained as a chapter chair. “It’s a rigorous way to run a meeting,” she said. “It’s a roundtable process for member issues, and we all walk away with amazing solutions to business issues.” Because the meetings can hit very personal issues like personnel concerns, the meetings are private, of course. With her WPO status and her thriving business, Anne has many things to celebrate. And after getting to know her better, I will say this to her in a way I know she will best understand it. Tweet begins here: @AnneMessenger Congrats on your 15th bizz anniv, here’s to many more! And happy first day of the rest of your life! #youarekindofabigdeal (137 characters with spaces. I counted, Anne!)

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“There’s no crying in baseball!” Yes, we all know Tom Hanks’ famous line from “A League Of Their Own,” but do you truly know what it means to a select group of American women? Between 1943 and 1954, dreams came true for more than 600 young women. With men 18 and older away fighting in World War II, many stars of the game left their pinstripes and cleats for Army uniforms and boots, but this didn’t mean America would be without its favorite pastime. The Windy City’s chewing-gum magnate, Philip K. Wrigley, inherited the Chicago Cubs’ Major League Baseball franchise from his father, and his committee recommended a girls’ softball league be established. In fear of losing revenue at ballparks, plans were put into place to start the All-American Girls Softball League, which began in the spring of 1943. The initial tryouts were held at Wrigley Field. The league changed names a few times due to pitching regulations and the desire to give a more descriptive name to the program. By 1950, the official league name was changed and most popularly identified as the All-American Girls Baseball League (AAGPBL). Thanks to Central New Yorker Shelley McCann, the AAGPBL will take the field again, and at Alliance Bank Stadium! Shelley, a longtime softball player and fan of the history that comes with the league, has helped organize an AAGPBL reunion once before, and while it entails much planning and preparation, she’s ready to do it again. Why does she recommend young girls attend? “So they can see that their dreams can come true,” she said. “Whatever it is you want to do, just keep working toward it. Just do it.” More than 50 of the remaining members of the AAGPBL will be in Syracuse on Saturday, Sept. 22, at Alliance Bank Stadium signing autographs, and yes, some of them will play ball! Shelley has organized a “friendly game” of softball between her team, The Associates, and another Syracuse team she personally scouted, Wings Over Syracuse. From 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., fans can get autographs from players like Maybelle Blair, a pitcher for the Peoria Redwings in 1948, and Shirley “Hustle” Burkovich, an infielder/outfielder who played for the Muskegon Lassies (1949), Rockford Peaches (1951), Springfield Sallies (1950). Burkovich also became a movie star when playing Alice “Skeeter” Jaspers at a later age in “A League Of Their Own”. At 11:30, the women take the field for the “V for Victory” formation, the classic song, “Batter Up” will be sung, and then the first pitch will be thrown out by Syracuse area Little League star, Nadia Diaz.

Tickets are only $5 and they’re available at the entrance of he stadium. Fans also can find more information about the event and the league at www.facebook.com/AAGPBL. syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2012

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We know Go Red For Women Syracuse is all about women’s heart health, and now the American Heart Association in the Syracuse region has a new way to look at makeovers for women. The BetterU program IS an innovative initiative that has chronicled 11 women’s journeys toward meaningful lifestyle changes that have improved their heart health. The BetterU women are at the halfway mark of their makeovers and the changes are happening! The 12-week BetterU Challenge, which is being sponsored by St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center, was designed to remind all women of the need to make healthy lifestyle choices. Each of the 11 women received a three-month membership and personal training at Gold’s Gym, a baseline medical evaluation from Laboratory Alliance, a consultation with a cardiologist, nutrition coaching from a St. Joseph’s dietician, and smoking cessation help if needed. Their experiences have been noted in their individual blogs, and their success will be celebrated at the annual Go Red For Women luncheon on Nov. 1. The BetterU women are featured in this edition to give our community of readers a chance to see what a few lifestyle changes can do to change your life forever.

Sonal Patel, 34, of Syracuse

“I applied to be in the makeover to improve my overall health and lose weight.” Best Benefit: The workouts at Gold’s Gym, but mostly the group support. Knowing that there are other people who are in the same situation willing to be there for you and motivate you. Notable Change: My clothes fit better and I have a lot more energy. Anna Jorgensen, 46, of Jamesville

“I applied to get healthy as I have heart disease in my family.” Best Benefit: Getting healthy weight loss. Notable Change: I have a lower BMI, a smaller waist, more energy and

I feel stronger.

Laura Gray, 46, of Weedsport

“My main reason to apply was to quit smoking as I have a strong cardiac family history and I was also hoping to improve my diet and lose weight.” Best Benefit: While preparing to begin the program I learned that I had high cholesterol, which scared me and made me want to quit smoking and improve my diet even more. So since day one, I have quit smoking. Notable Change: I have lost a total of 10 pounds since I went to the

cardiologist. Unfortunately, I had a “standstill” on the weight lose for about three-and-a-half weeks when I quit smoking but the big thing is, I didn’t gain! My mood has improved and I am sleeping so much better!

Roseann Gardinier, 46, of Munnsville

“I applied because I have cholesterol, I’m borderline obese and have a family history of heart disease.” Best Benefit: The increased energy and feeling healthier and stronger.

Notable Change: My weight. I have not yet had my cholesterol rechecked, but I have lost 16 pounds since I started. I went from 175 to 159 pounds in seven weeks. Suzanne Viola, 45, Eastwood

“My main reason for doing the Go Red For Women was to get my weight down and to become healthier over all.” Best Benefit: The membership to Gold’s Gym and the personal trainer! Also learning how to read food labels so you can choose healthier food choices. Notable Change: I have lost 21 pounds so far since starting this journey! My family and I plan on continuing this healthy lifestyle when this journey comes to an end. Beth SaviCki, 37, Cicero

“I applied so I could lower my blood pressure, lose weight and increase my overall health and well being. I have a nine-year-old daughter and I want to live to see her grow up!” Best Benefit: I have never dieted or exercised in 37 years and have been

successful in these past 8 or so weeks!

Notable Change: I lowered my blood pressure to 120/80 in only four weeks! Also I have lost 19 pounds total. Watching these numbers go down has been rewarding and motivating! Jacklin Anderson, 25, North Syracuse

“I applied because I found out in January that I had high cholesterol and being only 25 years old that scared me!” Best Benefit: It keeps me motivated to keep active and eat well as I hear other women’s stories.

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2012

Notable Change: I found out before this started when I saw

the cardiologist that my cholesterol had already gone down to a healthy level! I had already started to exercise more consistently, doing CrossFit and Yoga, and eating better. So my main goal was to keep my numbers the way they are since high cholesterol is genetic for me I will always have to watch it to keep it in check and keep on living a healthy lifestyle.

Tecora Pertilla, 36, Fayetteville

“I applied to improve my overall health.” Best Benefit: Learning the steps in which to live a healthier

lifestyle.

Notable Change: I have really enjoyed trying new and difficult

exercises, and have felt my body change, even though I haven’t gotten on the scale yet.

Tonia Moore, 42, Syracuse

“I joined the program to become more heart conscious.” Best Benefit: The membership to Gold’s Gym. Notable Change: My most improved number is my waistline.

On July 4 it was 44 inches and as of Aug. 14, it’s 37 inches.

Glorious Wallace, 60, East Syracuse

“I applied because I am ready to commit to the work and dedication required to get a healthier functioning heart. I was diagnosed with heart disease two years ago.” Best Benefit: To know I will have a healthier heart. Notable Change: I have a new perspective on lifestyle and the

ability to encourage others with her own success.

Barbara Muller, 78, Liverpool

“I applied because I was neglecting my own health while caring for a loved one.” Best Benefit: I am back on track and I am putting my health

first.

Notable Change: I am getting closer to getting on a regular

regimen, and increasing both my strength and endurance.

To learn more about these BetterU women, visit http://www. goredforwomen.org/betteru/, and see what it’s like to make a positive lifestyle change.

- Beth Savicki, 37, Cicero

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

syracuse women

SUZANNE DEFURIA

President, Potter Heating & Air Conditioning BY AMBER BRENZA I PHOTO BY CINDY BELL Suzanne DeFuria is still sitting at her desk at 6:30 p.m. on a Friday. “How many people are still at the office at this hour on a Friday, by choice?” she asks. The truth is - not many. Suzanne is president of Potter Heating & Air Conditioning in Syracuse and the only woman-owned business in New York state that is 8A certified in heating and air conditioning. “I love my job,” she says. “I love getting up in the morning and working.” In addition to presiding over a successful HVAC business, Suzanne also is vice president of Perrone Plumbing, an affiliate of Potter Heating & Air. “I think I’ve gotten a lot of respect because I’ve been in this business so long, as a woman,” says the 30-year veteran of the HVAC business. And being a woman in this field would be intimidating to most, but to Suzanne, it makes her job more enjoyable. “I like working in a male-dominated field,” she says. “I like going to a jobsite on my Harley and being with my guys out in the field.” But a woman’s knack for organization and compassion will only go so far in a work environment — professionalism and business savvy come into play, as well. Luckily, Suzanne’s warm personality is accompanied by a work ethic many only dream of. “You’re only as good as the people behind you,” she says. “I’ve learned to see who I work well with and who works well with me.” And at age 65, Suzanne is far from done with making those business decisions. “Most people my age are retiring now,” she says. “But retirement hasn’t even crossed my mind yet.” Suzanne’s accomplishments don’t end in the male-dominated business realm; she also spends a lot of time volunteering for many local organizations. Suzanne is a volunteer and member of the board of directors at St. Joseph’s Hospital, an active participant on the AIDS Community Resources board, and acting secretary of the Subcontractors Association, among several other charitable endeavors. In addition to her professional and extra-curricular success, Suzanne is a mentor for the Syracuse Builder’s Exchange for women and minorities, and has been for the past 22 years. “I like to be able to tell people what I’ve already gone through so they don’t have to make the same mistakes,” she says. “Everyone needs some kind of mentor so they know what they need to do to be better. Not that I’m looking to criticize; I’m looking to tell them what to do to improve.” So, what drives Suzanne to take on such a full schedule? “I guess I just love life,” she says. “I feel like I’ve fulfilled a lot of things, but I still love getting up in the morning, working out, and starting my day.” A love of people also helps Suzanne motivate herself to be the best she can be. “I try to stay away from people who are negative; and if they are negative, I try to turn them around.” And (continued on page 38)

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2012

“We are constantly in motion and making positive changes.” LAURIE LIECHTY

President, CPS Staffing Inc. & Professionals Inc. BY ALYSSA LAFARO I PHOTO BY KELLY KANE “From day one, I always wanted to be the employer of choice, so I worked very hard at having a reputation of being good to my employees, being a place people wanted to work,” said Laurie Liechty, the well known and ambitious entrepreneur. Laurie is the current president of not one, but two companies — Contemporary Personnel Staffing Inc. and Professionals Incorporated, Central New York’s largest independently owned temporary staffing and international professional recruitment firms. Laurie is no newbie to the world of business. This veteran recently celebrated 23 years of owning Contemporary Personal Staffing Inc. in August. And her experience began way before founding her own company in 1989. “I worked for a recruiting firm for 16 years before I decided to start my own.” Laurie learned the ropes of the business she’s in from her longtime mentor and employer John Willard. “He was a pillar in the Syracuse community in the ‘60s and ‘70s,” said Laurie, with a glint of admiration in her voice. “He was the founder of J.W. Willard Associates, a full-service recruiting and staffing firm, when there were few people in our business. He was a founding member of many of our state and national associations and set the standards that our firm lives by today. He was a wonderful, wonderful role model, and I thank him for his tutelage.” So in 1989, with a dollop of encouragement, an ambitious mindset, and persevering passion, Laurie made a leap of faith. “I did some soul searching about my own career path. After much research and encouraging words from some of my business associates, I decided to start my own recruiting firm, one that could truly make a difference, one with a personal touch.” She left J.W. Willard Associates to begin Contemporary Personal Staffing Inc. It’s not uncommon for professionals to make the jump from the nest of their mentor and soar into the open skies, but Laurie dove headfirst into the abyss in opening her second business seven years later. What may be even more impressive than the fact that she opened a second business, is that this business loosened its CNY belt loops and expanding globally. Professionals Incorporated, founded in 1996, helps place candidates internationally with the company’s clients and partners located in the Northeast, whereas Contemporary Personal Staffing Inc. acts as a full service staffing firm for Onondaga County and its surrounding counties. Earlier this year, she was one of two recipients to receive the Ann Michel Award given by Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship (WISE). This award is given annually to two women who have started CNY businesses that are at least three years old and have generated jobs, elicited exceptional economic impact and growth, and demonstrated innovation.

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

(continued on page 38)

“I’d like to add that freedom, and not money, is what motivates an entrepreneur, especially a woman entrepreneur.” JUDITH C. MOWER, Ph.D. “Retired” Organizational & Community Development Consultant

BY FARAH F. JADRAN I PHOTO BY RAINE DUFRANE

By now, you’ve read the heading of this page and noticed the word, retired, in quotes. Why? Well, Judith C. Mower wonders the same thing. “I’m actually retired from my consulting practice and have been for two years,” Judy says. “I stay very busy with civic activities, so much so that I wonder why I call myself ‘retired’ at all.” Judy is no stranger to the professional Central New York climate. She knows what’s hot, and what is not hot. When Judy began her career just being seen as credible was a challenge hence the Ph.D. “I eventually found out, as all women do, that being underestimated serves a very good purpose.” Next, she realized she could get a lot more accomplished. “Once I had an established reputation for excellence, the challenge became the ‘feast or famine’ nature of consulting,” Judy said. “Sometimes I would have so much work to do that just getting things done well and on time took every ounce of energy and every moment I had, and then would come the ‘dry spells’ of comparably less work and fewer projects, and less income to be counted on.” Working toward her goals and finding her niche in the business was made less stressful by the support of her family. “It helped enormously to have a husband (Eric Mower) with a steady income, and a very patient and understanding daughter.” What inspired her to be a leading woman in her profession? “I had terrific clients - mostly men, to be truthful, who saw the quality of my work and were generous and specific with their praise, and who referred me to their friends and colleagues.” Because of them, her phone kept ringing and new projects found their way to Judy. “I also was much inspired, and professionally developed, by men and women leaders with whom I worked on nonprofit boards and in various civic endeavors. I learned leadership mostly in that arena.” Judy says she cannot recommend highly enough how valuable such experiences can be for entrepreneurial women.” In a corporate structure a woman can perhaps count on being helped to become a leader by those above and around her in the hierarchy.” In addition, Judy says serving on boards and working with other volunteers can do the same for women entrepreneurs. Some entrepreneurs have dollar signs in their eyes, but for Judy, it was never about the paper. She begins to speak of one’s basic nature. “I’d like to add that freedom, and not money, is what motivates an entrepreneur, especially a woman entrepreneur,” Judy said. “Maybe it comes from an unconscious understanding that our culture, still male-dominated, is filled with forces that want to tell us what to do and how to be.” This entrepreneurial thing, it’s in her blood. “My parents were both entrepreneurs, and I come from a long line of them: innkeepers, mill owners, livery stable owners, and the like,” Judy said. “It’s as if I lack the DNA to want a boss.” Judy had some excellent women teachers in high school, who were her role (continued on page 38)

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2012

SUZANNE DEFURIA (cont)

LAURIE LIECHTY (cont)

JUDITH C. MOWER (cont)

even though there’s so much that Suzanne has already done, there’s much more she wants to do. “I’ve done so many things, so I have to think about the things I haven’t done,” she says. “One of my dreams is drive a race car — that’s next.”

Although she deserves the praise, Laurie strives to make people aware of how she could not have accomplished all she has without the help of her staff. “It isn’t all about me!” she stressed. “Our firm wouldn’t be where we are today if it wasn’t for our very seasoned, dedicated, and talented staff.”

models for using and developing her intelligence, even when that meant going without dates.

But Suzanne’s life hasn’t been as rosy as her personality provides. In having a rather difficult upbringing, Suzanne learned at a young age that having compassion will ultimately make you a better person. “When you have a tough upbringing, you have the chance to be a more compassionate person, as well as a stronger person.” That compassion and strength came in handy during her successful battle against cancer — Suzanne has been a cancer survivor for more than five years. Through her hardships, however, Suzanne has never lost her zest for life and people. A perfect example of this love of people and warm personality happened just a few days ago while Suzanne and her husband were out to dinner. “I saw this woman and she had a very sad look on her face,” she said. “So, I kept smiling at her until she finally smiled back at me. The way I see it, if someone smiles, they can’t be that unhappy.”

When she’s not surrounding herself by her work and wonderful employees, Laurie surrounds herself with other people in her life: her fiancé Bob, family, and friends. She enjoys lazy days on the boat, decorating and golfing. She’s also an avid member of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and is currently their Woman of the Year. “My mother had lymphoma,” explained Laurie. “And somehow Barbara Ashkin, the prior Woman of the Year, found out. At an event, Barb approached me, passing the baton to me. I couldn’t say no. To think that we could make a difference in someone’s life who is suffering from one of these blood disorders is beyond heartwarming.” No matter what Laurie puts her mind to, whether it’s growing her business, creating an enjoyable work environment, or raising money for a cause, one thing is for sure, she will do it with genuine passion and concern for others.

While personal achievements are always a positive, Judy is honored to say she helped found the Women’s Fund of CNY. It was a wonderful experience, she says. “Now there is a reliable source of support for programs that help women and girls, and the results of that support will be life changing for those who receive it.” “Most important to me is that the Women’s Fund is teaching women to become philanthropists, with their own money and in service to their own interests.” Judy recently finished her service on the board feeling confident that the Women’s Fund “is here to stay” and that its future is secure. “Its pool of funds will grow and grow as more and more women step up and give,” Judy said. “I will be a donor for the rest of my life.”

18200

Whether it’s her flair for business or her personable attitude, everyone can agree that there’s just something about Suzanne, and it can be best expressed in her own words: “I am what I am.”

With her knack for business and the help of her clever staff, Laurie’s businesses will continue to grow. Currently, she is working to make both her businesses ISO compliant, a certification that demonstrates to her future clients and business partners the efficiency and effectiveness of her companies.

Her commitment to become an organizational development consultant began with her experience in a National Training Laboratories program for graduate students in social psychology and other academic fields that involve the study of group dynamics. “Finally, like the frosting on a cake, I credit my partnerships with civic leaders of both genders and all backgrounds as my most important teaching experiences,” Judy said. “I learned more from them about being a leader than I ever could have learned in any classroom.”

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::SHIFT+CONTROL

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BY CARMEN E. ZAFAR

Nowadays, banking has become a team effort, and for two Central New York women it has helped them learn their strengths and realize a shared motivation. As well, moving into an executive position at work can cause some anxiety, but when you’ve got the right team in place, the move can be one of great ease. Seneca Federal’s Katrina “Trina” M. Russo, president-Chief Executive Officer, has been in the accounting field for more than 25 years, and her right-hand woman, Executive Vice President-Chief Financial Officer Wendy K. Bodnar, are at the lead of the pack working to keep community banking going strong. Wendy, who has been in banking for 13 years, all of which have been with Seneca Federal, says her work relationship with Trina has been positive. The duo never met each other until their promotions went into effect, but they realized they had similar goals and perception of the banking business. Instant chemistry made their entrance to executive management roles much easier. “Trina and I have a wonderful synergy that became apparent on day one,” Wendy said. “We communicate effectively with each other; have similar management styles and most importantly, we have the same vision for the business.” Coincidentally, Trina agrees with Wendy’s perspective. “We share similar goals for the association as well as visions for navigating the economic conditions we have all found ourselves in the last couple of years,” Trina said. “We are all willing to lead and be led considering our areas of expertise. We find strength in each other through a cohesive team effort.” While the duo has found a way to stay ahead of what could be categorized as a “dreary market,” each branch of Seneca Federal has taken an intense community focus since the economic decline. “All

Katrina Russo

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

three of our locations have really pulled together to help us navigate these turbulent times in the financial industry,” says Trina. And more than ever, Wendy says their group must “continue to navigate the changes in the financial industry and further the success of the business. And while it may sound unorthodox for a banker to tell you to get your exercise, it’s quite the opposite at Seneca Federal. In fact, she says she promotes healthy living to their customers and employees. Having taught fitness classes for more than 18 years, Wendy was so inclined to bring her two passions together. “I even introduced Zumba fitness dance to our employees last year!” Wendy said. “I held classes every other week in the basement of our Liverpool office. I continue to teach fitness classes and try to promote healthy living.” It’s this sense of caring that Wendy and Trina maintain when it comes to the people they work with and the community members who bank with them. “We just believe in the community bank model and really want to continue being an integral part of each of the communities that we operate and live in,” Wendy said. Likewise, Trina sees this as a shared mission, one that’s been long-standing. “I believe our predecessors as well as the current management team and Board of Directors have had the goal of serving and supporting our primary communities of Baldwinsville, North Syracuse and Liverpool,” Wendy said. According to Trina, the winds have shifted and the tough times are nearly behind them, and better days are ahead. “When we make a mortgage it is with the thought that it will be on our books for 30 years... not sold in a week for a one-time profit.” Trina says the team’s belief in helping people make long-term investments or signing for that dream house is what every day is about — it’s about community. “Wendy and I wholly believe in the community bank model and believe it provides basic banking for the communities we are located in.”

September is ovarian cancer awareness month, and like its silent symptoms, the awareness sometimes takes a backseat to other types of cancer. However, at Syracuse Woman Magazine, we believe it’s important to make all our readers well aware of all health risks.

(having to go urgently or often). Most of these symptoms can also be caused by other less serious conditions. These symptoms can be more severe when they are caused by ovarian cancer, but that isn’t always true. What is most important is that they are a change from how a woman usually feels.

Having a risk factor, or even several risk factors, does not mean that you will get the disease. Researchers have discovered several specific factors that change a woman’s likelihood of developing epithelial ovarian cancer. The risk of developing ovarian cancer gets higher with age. Ovarian cancer is rare in women younger than 40. Most ovarian cancers develop after menopause. Half of all ovarian cancers are found in women over the age of 63.

Having regular pelvic exams is important, but when symptoms are apparent, the exam is even more crucial. During a pelvic exam, the health care professional feels the ovaries and uterus for size, shape, and consistency. A pelvic exam is recommended because it can find some reproductive system cancers at an early stage, but most early ovarian tumors are difficult or impossible for even the most skilled examiner to feel. Pelvic exams may, however, help identify other cancers or gynecologic conditions. Women should discuss the need for these exams with their doctor. The Pap test is effective in early detection of cervical cancer, but it isn’t a test for ovarian cancer. Rarely ovarian cancers are found through Pap tests, but usually these are at an advanced stage.

Early cancers of the ovaries tend to cause symptoms that are more commonly caused by other things. These symptoms include abdominal swelling or bloating (due to a mass or accumulation of fluid), pelvic pressure or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and/or urinary symptoms

4th Annual Teal Ribbon Walk/Run for Ovarian Cancer WHEN: 9AM, Sunday, Sept. 23 WHERE: Inner Harbor, Syracuse WHAT: To spread awareness in the CNY community and raise funds for ovarian cancer research through the Hope For Heather organization. Register at www.getentered.com & find info on this cause at www.tealribbonrun.org.

When it was noted in a recent Cazenovia Chamber of Commerce meeting that there are a greater number of women-owned businesses in the community, we started to wonder why that is? The answer wasn’t as easy to decipher as we first imagined. However, after talking to several women business owners, it’s clear why anyone might choose to set up shop in Caz. Here’s what the women behind some of Caz’s best-known businesses had to say: JESSICA AMIDON Owner of Caz Cans & Secretary for the Chamber

“I opened my business [in Caz] because I grew up here,” said Jessica of her four-year-old business. “It’s a great community for a small business.” Besides the strong downtown retailers, Jessica says it doesn’t stop there, there are great businesses in all of Caz. “It’s a community that supports local and it always has.” Plus, she says many people have come to know Caz as a place where they can dine and shop for a same-day destination trip. As well, Jessica says one of her favorite things about running a business in her hometown is that community members always are concerned with how Caz Cans is going. “People know me by first name and always ask, ‘How’s business?’ I know they’re interested in my success and that’s heartwarming.” SUSAN MACHAMER Owner of Cazenovia Jewelry Inc.

Susan has been in business at her Cazenovia location for 27 years, and also she has a second location in Fayetteville, which has been open for more than five years. “I came here to raise a family…it’s a great community, small town and this was all important to the mission I had.” After having worked in the city of Syracuse, Susan knew that Caz was (and is) the right place for her and her family. “I guess I realized the mission and then moved.” Susan says Caz is welcoming to women business owners of all ages. Also, she says it’s a better option than renting a space in a mall because you “have your independence” as a business owner. “You make your own hours and you can do what you want to do [with your business].” AMANDA BURY Owner of Amanda Bury Antiques

She’s a Morrisville native, but Amanda knew Caz would be the right place for her antique business because Route 20 has come to be known as the place to be. The business, going on 31 years, is on the way to Bouckville, a capitol for antiques and unique items. Plus, Amanda has much ease in her business plan because she owns her building. She lives above her store and makes her hours work for her. Why does Caz have so many women business owners? “I don’t know exactly why that is…it’s always been that way. I’ve seen some places change hands, but they’ve always been owned by women.” LAURIE HUNT Owner of Lillie Bean

Laurie was running a successful business in Florida before she returned to Caz, where she was born and raised. It ended up being the place her son wanted to be. The Florida real estate market was in good shape, so Laurie sold her business, her home and made Caz the place to be. “I’ve been in retail all my life, and I work hard because this is my living.” Laurie said that this move back to Caz was all quite convenient. “It’s a great place to live, raise my son and do business.” Her business move also was a positive one since she realized there was a need in the area for her store, which offers an array of women’s and children’s clothing, accessories and unique gifts for all ages. Laurie said she listens to her “local loyal clientele” because it makes her business stronger. Also, she says other stores are very supportive to her and she gives referrals to them as well. “We [women business owners] all support one another.”

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

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Adverse drug events — injuries or harm caused by use of a drug — are the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Center for Medication Safety. The Centers for Disease Control estimate that drug injuries lead to more than 700,000 visits to hospital emergency departments each year across the U.S., and on average, 82 people die each day as a result of unintentional poisoning, when the person taking or giving a substance did not mean to cause harm. Children and seniors are the most susceptible to adverse drug events. People aged 65 years and over take more medications on average, and children are at risk from accidental consumption and improper dosing. Injuries resulting from the use of medication are often preventable. Dr. Laura Martin, an osteopathic physician with North Medical Family Physicians, says there are risks when taking any medication, and patients should be aware that their medicine could affect others around them if not properly handled. “Never share your medications with someone else,” Martin says, “Just because your prescription comes from a doctor doesn’t mean it’s safe, and just because it works for you doesn’t mean it will work the same way for someone else.” Adverse drug events are a serious public health problem, and medication safety is more and more imperative as misuse and abuse of prescriptions increases and prescription drug overdose death rates have never been higher. “Restricting dosages has a purpose, for keeping our patients safe,” Martin explains. Martin also warns of the risk for medication errors related to improper dosing, taking the wrong medication and drug interactions. Face-toface evaluations with your doctor are important for preventing adverse drug events, “no matter how long you’ve been taking a medication,” she says.

Medication Safety Tips

What can you do to prevent drug reactions and medication errors? - When your doctor gives you a prescription, make sure you are clear about the name of the drug, what you are using it for, the correct dosage, and for how long you should take it. - Read the instructions on the prescription bottle and ask your physician or pharmacist for clarification if you’re unsure. - When picking up a prescription, don’t just pay and leave; double check that your name and the name of the medicine are correct on the prescription. - Use just one pharmacy and ask your pharmacist to check for drug interactions, including over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements; interactions could cause medications to become stronger, or even less effective. - Be sure your doctor has a complete list of all your prescription and non-prescription drugs, supplements and medical conditions, to help predict interactions. - Take your medications as instructed and read all warning labels; never take larger or more frequent doses to try and get faster or more powerful effects. - Count your pills periodically, particularly with controlled substances, to be sure no one else is taking them. - Store all medicines in a secure place, away and out of sight, where a child cannot reach them. - Throw away all unused, unneeded or expired prescriptions. - Ask questions and let your doctor know if you experience any problems — however minor — with your current medications.

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

::fitness ::SHIFT+CONTROL

BY ANDREA B. WANDERSEE, MPA, RYT-200 I PHOTO BY SEAN K. HARP

I never thought of myself as an entrepreneur. My primary impetus for starting my own consulting firm was to have more control over my professional and personal life. Engaging in meaningful work is important to me, and I wanted to work with clients whose mission aligned with my value system. I also needed to establish business goals based on my own aspirations, and make more time for family, personal growth and self-care. I started Wandersee Consulting in 2010, thanks in part to the inspiration and practical advice offered at the WISE Conference, and the encouragement of my family. One of my priorities was to make time for a daily yoga practice. Although I have been dappling in yoga off and on since the mid-1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, I discovered the value of a regular practice in 2005 as I went through a divorce, a move and a career change. During this time, yoga helped me stay focused and grounded. When I practice yoga regularly, my life simply works better. Launching my own business has been exciting, empowering, overwhelming, frustrating and sometimes scary. It has never been boring. It takes a lot of energy and time to start a business, and it is not always easy to make yoga a priority. Last year, life handed me a not-so-subtle reminder that I needed to take care of myself when my son developed some health problems. As I walked back into the yoga studio after a long hiatus, I knew in my heart that yoga was not an occasional pastime or luxury hobby. It was an essential tool, a lifeline, to help me navigate all of the challenges life has to offer.

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

On that very same day I decided to enroll Infinite Light Yogaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (www.infinitelightyoga.com). By committing to teaching yoga to others, I would be obligated to a regular practice for myself. The logic may seem simplistic but it worked for me. As I thought about the reasons yoga was important to me, I began to draw connections to my coaching work. Infinite Light specializes in experiential yoga that can be adapted for anyone. The practice and philosophy is so clearly beneficial for individual growth, that I realized I could incorporate yoga into my coaching practice. As I went through the program, I saw connections to other areas of my business, as yoga can enhance leadership, teamwork, communication and organizational development. I plan to incorporate yoga into Wandersee Consulting, and teach multilevel yoga classes with Infinite Light Yoga. The owners, Tony and Mary Riposo, are currently expanding the studio to offer a wider range of classes and programming. Their energy and creativity provides an exciting opportunity for all of their teachers to collaborate with them, and I would hope to be a part of that. Life as an entrepreneur is filled with paradox. There is control and chaos, freedom and pure accountability, independence and a need for others. Yoga allows me to balance these contradictions and embrace all of the uncertainty that is life. Learn more about Wandersee Consulting at www.wanderseeconsulting.com.

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::events

Syracuse Woman Magazine

SWM RUNWAY CELEBRATION BENEFITS OPHELIA’S PLACE PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHRYN LAHM

More than 250 people gathered on Thursday evening, Aug. 16, to support Ophelia’s Place in Liverpool. The non-profit supports women and men of all ages in their battle with eating disorders and body image issues.

Syracuse Woman Magazine has seen the true benefit of Ophelia’s Place and shares its mission. SWM wanted to show its appreciation to Ophelia’s Place since it has been there for the almost two-year-old publication since it was first launched. To show its appreciation, members of the SWM staff decided that organizing a Runway Celebration for real, everyday women to show off fashions to their community was the right thing to do. The show was held on a grand stage in the Canyon Area of Destiny USA. It featured hair and makeup by Royal Image Salon in North Syracuse, and fashions from stores such as Saks Off 5th Avenue, H&M, Chico’s, Dress Barn, Francesca’s Collections, Lane Bryant, Harstrings, The Hair Jeweler and Off Broadway Shoes. Also, Saks Off 5th Avenue and Hickey Freeman’s Streets of America featured some men’s wear in the surprise finale that featured a walk-off among Jim Reith (WCNY), Michael Benny (CBS5), James Gaddis (WSYR9), and Brad Vivacqua (YNN). MOVIN’ 100.3/96.5 provided music while Koto Japanese Steakhouse and The Melting Pot provided food for the evening. Many thanks to all the volunteers, especially Lynda King, Judie Gotch, Nancy Kordas and Jackie Lonergan, and to all those at Ophelia’s Place because you inspired this amazing community event. SWM is proud to be a part of new movement in the media, to remind all women that their individual beauty is a unique and wonderful part of our society.

september 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

RIDE FOR RESEARCH Time: 9 AM Registration; 11 AM Ride What: A chance for Central New York motorcycle enthusiasts to show their support for the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Fund of CNY. Where: Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, 246 W. Willow St., Syracuse Registration: $30 Pre-registered drivers; $35 Day of event drivers; $10 Passengers (includes cookout only); For more Info, call 672-5288. CLOS DU BOIS WINE DINNER Time: 6 to 9 PM What: A wine dinner presented by Forrest Harper Where: Mohegan Manor, 58 Oswego St., Baldwinsville Info: www.moheganmanor.com HANDBAGS HELPING HEARTS Time: 5:30 TO 7:30 PM What: A “girls night out” that features a silent auction of purses filled with amazing goodies and benefits Go Red For Women Syracuse. Where: Stickley, Audi & Co. Showroom, Fayetteville Towne Center, 300 Towne Drive Tickets: $15 each; www.heart.org/handbagshelpinghearts WOMEN IN BASEBALL: AAGPBL Time: 10 AM autographs; 11:30 AM on-field action What: Meet the actual players and some of the movie stars from “A League of Their Own”! Where: Alliance Bank Stadium, Syracuse Tickets: $5; Kids 10 & under are free; email shelleymccann@gmail.com for more information. RALLY FOR THE CURE Time: 1 PM Shotgun Start What: The 2nd Annual Rally for the Cure, CNY/Traci Morey Zimmer Memorial Golf Tournament to benefit Susan G. Komen For The Cure Where: Radisson Greens Golf Course, Baldwinsville Registration: www.rally4thecurecny.blogspot.com 27

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2012

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