September 2014 by Barbara McSpadden

september 2014

swm fashionable man fabulous finds

sw inspires

syracuse FASHION WEEK

FRAN HARWOOD KATHIE MORRIS CYNTHIA GIANNUZZI

Shauna Diliberto

maeflowers vintage

w w w. s y r ac u s e wo m a n m ag . c o m

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2014

presents

T O

H E A L T H

nd seco : stop ce fran

Ladies Night Out with mini spa activities, skin care, chair massages, stress reduction activities and more.

A night out for couples thinking about if and when to have a baby - in the near future or down the road.

Pregnancy Prep 101

FREE with reservation

Thursday, Sept. 18 6 - 8:30 p.m. Justin’s Grill East Syracuse

France may be home to the city of love, but even hopeless romantics want answers to embarrassing questions about life before, during and after menopause. Join our ladies-only audience to get the answers from our gynecological experts: • Mary Jane Minkin, MD, Yale School of Medicine • Stephen Brown, MD, Crouse Hospital

We know that parenthood begins even before you get pregnant. Join us for a relaxing night out including brief presentations, followed by questions and answers, from the following experts: • Crouse OB/GYN provider • Professional financial advisor • Relationship counselor from Crouse HelpPeople

$10 per couple

Tuesday, Sept. 23 6 - 9 p.m.

Sharkey’s Bar & Grill Liverpool

$10 per couple

Thursday, Dec. 11 6 - 9 p.m.

Dave and Busters Destiny USA

Fee includes a snack, soft drinks & games to bring home or play onsite, plus a $25 gift certificate for any class offered by Crouse Hospital’s First Steps Pregnancy, Childbirth & Family Education Program.

Dress Up

A ladies-only party of pampering and empowerment

YourLife

with Confidence and Good Health

Put on your favorite black attire and accessorize with

$25 per person (Only 300 available)

• An amazing goody bag of gifts valued at $100 for each guest

• Delicious food and drink, plus dancing to live music • Relaxation activities, professional bra-fittings and a photo booth

Thursday, Oct. 2 6 - 9 p.m.

• “Speed Date Your Doctor” to learn more about their services

Traditions at the Links

• Boutique shopping, salon booths, makeover stations and a nail-accent bar and much more!

Co-sponsored with

East Syracuse

and Creating a Healthier Community, Starting with You!

For more Information and Registration visit crouse.org/spirit or call 315/470-5777

This walk gets us to the finish line faster.

When you walk and fundraise in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, you help the American Cancer Society make the greatest impact and save more lives in more communities, through groundbreaking research and programs like clinical trials matching and free rides to treatment. Walk with us, because you can help us finish the fight.

MakingStridesWalk.org/syracuse Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Syracuse October 19, 2014 Clinton Square ÂŠ2014, American Cancer Society, Inc.

September Letter from the Editor

ETC: Out and About 7

Platter Chatter: Stella’s Diner

Fashion Forward 10 Fabulous Finds: Syracuse Fashion Week

Special Feature: Molly’s Wish

WISE Women 20 For a Good Cause

14 12

SWM Fashionable Man 24 Cover: Shauna Mae Diliberto

Fitness: Syracuse Pure Barre

Queen of Arts: ArtRage Gallery

WBOC Leading Woman 37 Healthy Woman: Crouse Spirit of Women

Reads & Writes 40 Syracuse Women Inspire 43 SWM Main Events 48

SWM Calendar 49

38 38

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a firsthand look at some of the fabulous women’s clothing stories in this area. Cynthia Giannuzzi from Clothes Mentor, EcoChic Boutique’s Fran Harwood and Kathie Morris of The Changing Room all bring on the bling in their own way. Cynthia carries highend resale clothing; Fran follows the three Es — eco-friendly, economical and eclectic; and Kathie features versatile, vintage-inspired clothing with a West Coast vibe.

FROM THE EDITOR

It wasn’t until I made my exodus from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University in 2012 that I really began developing my sense of fashion. I experienced a metamorphosis from jeans and plain tops, to brightly colored crops, patterned sweaters and one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. My biggest rule when it comes to my wardrobe is no whites, blacks or grays — and I can promise you this issue represents all my color and more. Cover woman Shauna Diliberto is a prime example. The owner of pop-up shop maeflowers vintage recently brought her New York City fashion sense back to her hometown of Syracuse to spread her love of floral prints, polyester, and unique clothing to local fashionistas. Check out the colors that fill not only her clothing racks, but her Tipperary Hill home in the cover story, “Shauna Mae Diliberto’s Dream… maeflowers vintage.” Also featured this issue are the colorful ladies of Stella’s Diner — the Stellakis sisters. Judy, Betty and Mary have been serving up hot breakfasts, lunches and dinners since 1998. And people don’t come back just for the food, but the atmosphere. Betty Boop dolls of all sizes and colors hang from the ceiling above 1950s-inspired red and silver booths, while matching barstools line the counters, giving customers a sneak peek at the inner workings of the kitchen. The sisters pack quite a bit of color themselves, and shared their wonderful story with us in this month’s Platter Chatter. For all of our Inspires this month, we couldn’t turn down the opportunity to get

And finally, a little information about me, your new editor. I have been passionate about this magazine even before I became an intern here in spring 2012. I suppose I owe it all to Calico Gals owner Janet Lutz, who introduced me to the magazine in fall of 2011 when I interviewed her as part of my beat on women for a newswriting class. She raved about SWM and its editor Farah Jadran, whom I contacted later that year about the possibility of an internship. After interning, I continued to write for the magazine while working in my hometown of Geneva as an assistant editor for a small publishing company. And when the time came for Farah to move on to the next phase of life, she called me to let me know her SWM journey was ending, but a new one could be beginning for me. Farah has given me all the tools I’ve ever needed to be successful – encouragement, a mentor, and a shot in the journalism world. I am forever grateful to her, all the wonderful women who have already welcomed me with open arms into this community, and to all the Syracuse women I have yet to meet. It is all of you who make my job a little sweeter and the Syracuse community a lot more colorful. To a great future,

Alyssa LaFaro ON OUR COVER... Shauna Diliberto was photographed by Cindy Bell of Focus Studio Inc. at her Tipperary Hill apartment, wearing her own line of maeflowers vintage clothing. Cover woman makeup artistry provided by Julianna Pastella, hair by Jillain Pastella-Salomone of J. Luxe Salon, and seamstress work by Alice Merrick. EDITOR’S PHOTO Alyssa LaFaro was photographed by Cindy Bell of Focus Studio Inc. at 920 Salina St. in Syracuse.

OUR TEAM Publishers

Kelly Breuer Barbara McSpadden

Editor-in-Chief

Barbara McSpadden

Editor

Alyssa LaFaro

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Farah F. Jadran

Creative DIRECTOR Kelly Breuer

Photography Cindy Bell Stasya Erickson Gerard H. Gaskin Bob Gates Rick Needle Jussara Potter

Contributing Writers Sharon Fay Farah F. Jadran Kailyn Jennings Leesa Kelley Alyssa LaFaro Samantha McCarthy Kimberly McCoy Amari D. Pollard Maggie Lamond Simone Rose Viviano

advertising Sales Renee Moonan Linda Jabbour

Please contact Renee Moonan (315) 657-7690

AUnlike d vanye rother t i spublication e w i tinhthe Syracuse u s . . . 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 12 times a year by Syracuse Woman Magazine, llc. and Eagle Publications, 2501 James Street, Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13206. Copyright © 2014 Syracuse Woman Magazine, llc. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or republished without the consent of the publishers. Syracuse Woman Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts, photos or artwork. All such submissions become the property of Syracuse Woman Magazine, llc. and will not be returned.

etc

MOVIES

Dolphin Tale 2 – 9/12 It has been several years since Sawyer Nelson and the team at the Clearwater Marine Hospital, headed by Dr. Clay Haskett , rescued Winter. Winter’s surrogate mother, the very elderly dolphin Panama, has passed away, leaving Winter without the only pool mate she has ever known. Now, time is running out to find a companion for her before the team at Clearwater loses their beloved Winter to another aquarium.

This Is Where I Leave You – 9/19 When their father passes away, four grown siblings are forced to return to their childhood home and live under the same roof together for a week, along with their over-sharing mother and an assortment of spouses, exes and mighthave-beens. Confronting their history, they ultimately reconnect in hysterical and emotionally affecting ways amid the chaos, humor, heartache and redemption that only families can provide.

OUT & ABOUT Hope for Heather’s Teal Ribbon Run and Walk – September 13 Come out to the Teal Ribbon Run 5k and 3k Family Fun Walk on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Lewis Park in Minoa. The 5k begins at 10:30 a.m., followed by the 3k walk at 10:40 a.m. After the race there will be awards for the top finishers and teams, raffles, and the Village of Minoa’s Festival in the Park. Registration is $25 until Aug. 31, so sign up early! The Teal Ribbon Run is put on by the Hope for Heather Foundation, which honors Heather M. Weeks, who passed away at the age of 24 after battling ovarian cancer. The organization holds numerous events each year to raise money for ovarian cancer research, education and support for those affected by the disease that approximately 20,000 women are diagnosed with each year. To register for the event and for more information, visit hopeforheather.org.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk – October 19

Making Strides of Syracuse will take place on Sunday, Oct. 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Clinton Square. Be sure to come out and show your support for breast cancer awareness with a noncompetitive 1.5- to 2.5-mile walk.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer celebrates survivors and shares hope and determination to cure breast cancer. It unites communities, raises awareness about how we can reduce our risk, and raises money for the American Cancer Society’s fight for breast cancer research, services and mammogram access. It is currently held in more than 300 communities in the United States. Walk individually or as a team, and donate money to an organization dedicated to end breast cancer, which affects about one in eight women nationwide. There are currently more than 2.8 million survivors. To register, volunteer, or for more information, visit main.acsevents.org.

The Equalizer – 9/26 Denzel Washington plays Robert McCall, a retired intelligence officer who helps the powerless. In the movie version, he is living a quiet life while working at a Home Depot, when one act of kindness toward a prostitute (Chloe Moretz) gets him embroiled with the Russian mob. Marton Csokas will play a vicious fixer for the Russians.

A Walk Among The Tombstones Liam Neeson plays Matt Scudder, an ex-NYPD cop who now works as an unlicensed private investigator operating just outside the law. When Scudder reluctantly agrees to help a heroin trafficker (Dan Stevens) hunt down the men who kidnapped and then brutally murdered his wife, the PI learns that this is not the first time these men have committed this sort of twisted crime…nor will it be the last.

Wedding World Expo at the NYS Fairgrounds – Oct. 26

The CNY Wedding World Expo is coming to the New York State Fair Sunday, Oct. 26. The event will last from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Horticultural Building. Connect with the finest wedding professionals in CNY through the interactive exhibits, runway fashions, massages, food, wine and more. Exhibitors include bakeries, entertainment, attire, decorations, catering companies, invitations, lodging, transportation, makeup, photography, insurance and financial services, travel event planners and so on. Every wedding detail is included in the expo, so be sure to stop by, as there are more exhibitors, fashion and giveaways than ever before! Registration and parking are free, so take advantage of CNY’s largest wedding show. Syracuse Woman Magazine is the official media sponsor for the event, so be sure to check out the booth at the expo, as well! For more information and to register, visit cnyweddingworldexpo.com.

chatter ::platter

youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll like it at

Stellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diner

by Kailyn Jennings I PHOTOS BY RICK NEEDLE

As you walk into Stella’s Diner on Wolf Street in Syracuse, you enter a time capsule — one full of retro silver and red booths and Betty Boop. She’s hanging from the ceiling, plastered on a napkin holder, stuck on a magnet. And they are all gifts from loyal customers who have stuck by Stella’s Diner since 1998. When they were younger, the Stellakis sisters — twins Judy and Betty, and their older sister Mary Martin — paid their bills by working in the restaurant business. Judy worked as a prep cook in Delaware and Betty waitressed on the boardwalk there when they were both 14. They took after their mother, who started waitressing when she was 16 years old. Judy’s dream was to open a restaurant, and soon enough, they all desired it. They talked about opening a place for a few years, but didn’t have a real plan. However, in October of 1998, Mary and Betty were driving and saw a vacant, affordable restaurant at 913 Wolf St. Two months later, Stella’s was open for business. Mary and Betty waitressed, while Judy did the cooking.

“When we found this, the property was five different parcels,” Betty added. They bought all five and got a permit to build. They were closed for six weeks, and people constantly called, asking when they would reopen. In late 2003, they opened their doors. “We wanted a soft opening because we had all new everything,” Betty continued. “We only turned on the lights and opened the door, but then there was a line of people.” “It was a madhouse,” Mary said. “I was very surprised. I knew they would come, but I didn’t think they would come the first day.” Even with three times the space and staff of the original location, customers should still plan on waiting for a seat during rush hours. It’s no surprise, though. The friendly atmosphere and hearty food are memorable and crave-worthy. Their slogan says it all: “Eat it. You’ll like it.” When you stop by Stella’s, try one of their bestselling dishes. “We are best known for our breakfast. The customers like Eggs Benedict and Frettas,” Betty said. The Eggs Benedict is made in the traditional sense — two halves of an English muffin topped with Canadian bacon, poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce. The Fretta is made with scrambled eggs and tossed with

But breakfast is not the only meal they serve. “People I’ve known a while say they didn’t know we served dinner,” Mary explained. “We’ve served dinner for 15 years!” So try out a dinner entrée, too, maybe one of the sisters’ favorites — Rattlesnake Pasta or Caribbean Chicken Salad. The Rattlesnake Pasta is rigatoni tossed with jalapenos and roasted peppers in a spicy southwest sauce, baked with cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, and your choice of grilled or crispy chicken and/or sautéed shrimp. The Caribbean Chicken Salad is made with wild greens, mandarin oranges, crumbly blue cheese and candied walnuts, tossed with sweet and sour dressing.

When their lease was set to expire, they searched for a new location with the same demographic, and moved to 110 Wolf St. “We didn’t want to move away from our customers,” Mary said.

homefries, ham, sausage, pepperoni, broccoli, mushrooms, onions, peppers and cheese.

Not only can a freshly cooked meal be expected at Stella’s but good conversation. “I like hanging out and meeting all the people,” Mary said. “I like just chitchatting with everyone.” “I think that is the best part,” Betty added. “And also, when it’s busy and everything is running smoothly, there is such a sense of accomplishment.”

And the customers agree. They are loyal to the diner and give back, as well. “Everything you see, customers brought,” Betty said, regarding the Betty Boop décor. “I only bought a magnet. Even the big things, they are gifts from customers.” They eat it. They like it. And it shows. For more information, visit stellasdinersyracuse.com.

::fashion

forward

work wear’s

Look

new

by Amari D. Pollard No woman who loves fashion ever wants to feel like her sense of style has to be stifled because of her profession. The ideal situation for a woman in the workforce is to have the ability to transition her everyday clothes to the office while still appearing professional. That way, she doesn’t require a whole separate wardrobe for work, which can cost a pretty penny. But luckily, with today’s latest trends, it’s easier for a woman’s wardrobe to serve her well in any environment. Check out these four fashion trends great for work — and weekends.

harem pants

Today, women take a walk down memory lane when they shop because modern fashion revives the styles of yesteryear. Many people were under the impression that MC Hammer and his pants would stay buried in the ‘90s with the neon windbreakers and turtlenecks, but they obviously weren’t listening closely enough when he sang, “Can’t Touch This.” Based on what women have been wearing lately, it looks like “hammer pants,” better known as harem pants, are here to stay. Although harem pants are a great style that can transition to the workplace, it is safer to stay away from the patterned ones because the combination of a busy pattern and a billowy design can sometimes be too much on the eyes. However, a solid-color harem pant, especially an earth tone, paired with a classic blazer is an excellent way to make an entrance at the office.

Mid-length, high-waist pleated skirts This style skirt, reminiscent of the ‘50s and ‘60s, is becoming quite popular again. Not too long ago, I would have to meticulously comb through the racks of vintage clothing stores in the hopes of finding an authentic skirt from those eras. Now it’s relatively easy to find them hanging on the racks in stores like Express and Forever21 — and for great prices. This type of skirt is perfect for work because it shows off a woman’s legs in a classy, sophisticated way since it falls to the knees. It’s actually perfect in every way. Today’s women appreciate the power of their curves again, and this skirt does a tremendous job of cinching in the waist. And if you have a boyish shape like me, the illusion of curves is greatly appreciated.

Structured satchels This is one of the most professional bags a woman can carry next to a briefcase. Essentially, it’s a square bag with triangular “pockets” that bulge out from the sides. It’s a rather severe looking bag, but that’s what makes it so appropriate for work. However, buying it in a vibrant color is sure to brighten up any outfit, and possibly any office.

Pointy-toe flats

When I put an outfit together for work, I usually pick a statement jewelry piece or a particular article of clothing to design the rest of my look around, but I’ve always had the hardest time finding the right shoe to finish off an outfit. That was until I discovered pointy-toe flats, which have the ability to dress up and complete any outfit, especially the ones with a metallic tip. These shoes are a great option for the working gal who is always on her feet and can’t handle walking in heels all day, or for those like me who simply can’t properly walk in heels. This way, you can still look polished and professional without hurting your feet.

VERO.SyrWOM_Layout 1 8/22/14 12:08 PM Page 1

The third Vero in the U.S. is close to home The Upstate Cancer Center in Syracuse, NY provides advanced cancer-fighting technology, including the third Vero SBRT installed in the nation. Skilled radiation oncologists, like Upstate’s Anna Shapiro, MD, use the Vero to locate, target and treat tumors in real time. The Vero provides a 3-D view then precisely delivers radiation through beams concentrated on the tumor, sparing healthy cells and tissues. The Vero also can be used for tumors that have spread or that are hard to reach with surgery. Accredited by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer, Upstate connects patients to the care, education and research resources of the region’s only medical university.

Upstate Cancer Center

SYRACUSE, NY WWW.UPSTATE.EDU/CANCER

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finds ::fab

Old

Something at Syracuse Fashion Week

The fifth annual fall edition of Syracuse Fashion Week (SyrFW) will take place Sept. 16 to 19 this year. On Thursday, Sept. 18, a handful of trendy Syracuse stores, along with four original designers, will display their collections on the outdoor Walton Street runway at the Syracuse Style Fashion Show. SWM Editor Alyssa LaFaro sat down with fashionista and SyrFW organizer Lisa Butler to discuss a few of this year’s store participants. Some are fashion show veterans, while others are new to the scene. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect at the show.

Size Fabulous Boutique Size Fabulous Boutique, an online store for

fashionable, full-figured women, showcased its clothing for the first time at the 2014 spring edition of SyrFW, and is participating again this fall. The online store stems from owner Jasmon Brown’s business Size Fabulous, which “focuses on building confidence and self-esteem through body image coaching and fashion/wardrobe styling services.”

Kenn Kushner Designs

This year will be Kenn Kushner Designs’ fifth year participating in SyrFW. The Walton Street store features jewelry made from 18-karat gold, platinum and high-quality gems. For more than 20 years, owner Kenn Kushner has created custom jewelry for a variety of clients. His signature style, however, is clean, “architectural” pieces in a variety of geometric shapes and sizes.

september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

New

::fab

Something

finds

The Changing Room

One of this month’s Syracuse Women Inspires, Kathie Morris of The Changing Room is also a first-timer at this year’s fashion week. At two locations — one in downtown Syracuse and another in Baldwinsville — her stores feature vintageinspired clothing that “combine European essence, East Coast spirit and West Coast cool.”

mr. shop

Another fashion week veteran, Mr. Shop on West Fayette Street is “the original, upscale fashion center for Syracuse men.” Whether shoppers are in need of a custom suit, sports jacket, or fitted denim, Joel Shapiro and his staff have years of expertise to help patrons leave looking dressed to impress.

modern pop culture Just a few blocks from newbie Indie Kids is SyrFW veteran Modern Pop

Culture. Here, shoppers will find “vintage clothing with a modern style.” Owner Nathan Schafer hand-picks the store’s clothing and accessories from all over the country, offering customers high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces at an affordable price.

Indie Kids Having just opened this past May, Indie Kids is displaying its wares for the first time at SyrFW. Located on Jefferson Street in Armory Square, the store features trendy kids’ clothing with brands like Fore and Anthem of Ants. Owner Michelle Brancaccio hopes her store will provide parents with an alternative to the array of kids’ clothing chains usually found at malls.

Now Carrying Sympli available in plus sizes

106 Salt Springs Road Fayetteville, NY 13066 (315) 632-4291 Hours: Mon-Sat. 11-6

A-K Cup The Shoppes at Towne Center | Fayetteville, NY 315.637.3467 | www.everybodybras.com

EcoChic Boutique The look you want

comfy U. S . A .

your style...

your look...

your essence...

for less

Now Featuring Fall Fashion! New Items Arriving Daily

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ook b e se ac n F yracu o us hicS n i Jo coC at E

4314 East Genesee St. DeWitt, NY 13224 315.445.CHIC (2442) www.EcoChicBoutique.biz

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in Marshall Square Mall 315-449-6700 • 3fifteen.org • facebook.com/3fifteenstore

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Blushing Rose Boutique Come see our new more spacious location

April Cornell Clothing & Linens Candles, Jewelry & Many other gifts

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::special

feature

In Oct. 2011, my father was killed in a car accident by a drunk driver. At the time, my husband and I had been fostering dogs. But we were going through such a rough time with my dad’s passing that we decided we weren’t going to foster any more dogs for a while. In November, however, we received a phone call about Molly, a 6-year-old Yorkshire terrier from a puppy mill in Missouri. I figured it was a sign from my father. He loved dogs, always had a rescue dog, and he loved visiting whenever I had a new foster dog. Molly was in really bad shape, like all puppy mill dogs. She had fleas, her hair was extremely matted, and she only weighed six pounds — she was a mess, to say the least. We fostered her for about a month until we realized that she wasn’t just a foster — we were falling in love with her. So we decided to adopt her. Molly was different from other puppy mill fosters. She wouldn’t come near anyone, wouldn’t bark, and kept to herself most of the time. This went on for the first few weeks we had her. It took her a long time to learn to trust us. But once she did, she followed me everywhere. I never had a dog that was so attached to me. She was so affectionate and loving. She wouldn’t go to anyone but me. When I would leave the house, she would wait by the front door until I came home; she’d never leave that spot. When I asked her for a kiss, I was covered with them. By the following summer, she would hang in the pool with me on her float. She loved it. That was one of my best summers. In mid-September, however, I noticed that she was having trouble getting up one step. The next morning, it was obvious that there was something seriously wrong. She was breathing heavy, trying to catch her breath, and her stomach was bloated. We rushed her to the vet, and after taking x-rays, blood work and a sonogram, the doctor told me that Molly’s liver had failed. There was nothing they could do because her liver was ready to erupt. We could not believe it. There had been no prior signs of this; it just happened overnight. It was one of the worst days of my life as a foster/ adoptive parent. We tried to keep her as comfortable as possible, but the following week, it was evident that it was time — time to say goodbye to one of the most loving dogs I have ever owned. I promised Molly that I would work hard to expose and help close down as many puppy mills as possible, with the help of other rescues and groups, so that other dogs would not have to live their life like she had to for six years. Mill dogs are tortured and abused, and forced to give birth heat after heat. The vet guessed at least eight litters were produced from Molly. Mill dogs are not given yearly exams by vets; they are only seen as cash crops in the eyes of the puppy mill owners. I was glad we were chosen to love her the last 11 months of her life. I know she was finally not a prisoner to the puppy mill and was living her life as a loved dog, enjoying every moment of it. She lived like a queen here. In 2013, I started Molly’s Wish with the goal to educate the public about the dangers of puppy mills, provide a safe haven for animals rescued, help with expenses for those that need extra assistance, and advocate to change laws and legislation. On Oct. 4, I will be hosting my second annual puppy mill awareness event — a walk called Miles for Molly, Puppy Mill Awareness at Driver’s Village in Cicero from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be many rescue organizations with adoptable rescue dogs, vendors, a video about puppy mills and activities for kids. A few of the speakers this year are Lorry Schlick, president of citizensagainstpuppymills.org; Kathy Herenchack, the cofounder and director of PMAD Rescue; animal communications specialist David Louis; Stefanie Heath Higgins, founder and program

director of Cuse Pit Crew; and Barbara Getman of My Pet Has Issues Animal Behavior Counseling. We will also have a dog trainer onsite, a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, dog costume contest and blessing of the dogs. We ask that each person bring in a picture of their pet(s), present or past, and put it next to the St. Francis statue. A pastor will bless all the animals. DJ Tim Rose and his son Scott from Sound Junction DJ Service will be one of the MCs there.

feature

by Sharon Fay

::special

1 woman, 1 dog, 1 vision We all love our pups, but just think — there are dogs who spend every day of their lives in crowded cages with no food, water or vetting. We need to put a stop to these mills. We need to be the voice of these dogs. And together we can make this happen. For more information, or if you’d like to volunteer at Miles for Molly, visit mollyswish.org or email Sharon Fay at mollyswishinc@gmail.com.

What is a Puppy Mill? A puppy mill, sometimes known as a puppy farm, is a commercial dog breeding facility that is operated with an emphasis on profits above animal welfare, and is often in substandard conditions regarding the well beings of dogs and their care. There are an estimated 4,000 puppy mills in the U.S. that produce more than half a million puppies a year. Puppy mills usually house dogs in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, without adequate veterinary care, food, water and socialization. Puppy mill dogs do not get to experience treats, toys, exercise or basic grooming. To minimize waste cleanup, dogs are often kept in cages with wire flooring that injures their paws and legs — and it is not unusual for cages to be stacked upward in columns. Illness and disease are common in dogs at puppy mills because mill operators often fail to apply proper husbandry practices that would remove sick dogs from their breeding pools. They are prone to congenital and hereditary conditions that include epilepsy, heart disease, kidney disease, musculoskeletal disorders, endocrine problems, deafness, blindness and respiratory disorders, to name a few. This information was gathered from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). For more information on puppy mills, visit aspca.org/fight-cruelty/puppy-mills/puppy-mill-faq.

“Mill dogs are not given yearly exams by vets; they are only seen as cash crops in the eyes of the puppy mill owners.”

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2014

women ::wise

WISE HAPPENINGS:

Check out wiseconference.com/events for a complete list of upcoming events!

september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

©Disney

SPECIAL

SEPT. 23-24, 2014

NOV. 18-20, 2014 WINNER! BEST MUSICAL REVIVAL 2011 TONY AWARD®

The #

LONGESTRUNNING

AMERICAN

PHOTO BY NAOMI KALTMAN

Photos by Jeremy Daniel

oadway History!

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Fashion

::for a good

cause

& Compassion at the BCRF Fashion Show by Samantha McCarthy

“From all of the money fundraised through Estee Lauder, 91 cents of every dollar is donated to the Breast Cancer Research Fund,” said Nikki Marcis. “We are the highest-rated breast cancer foundation in the country.” Nikki is the creator of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) Fashion Show, which began in 2013. Nikki was born and raised in Central New York and graduated from Jamesville-DeWitt High School. Not wanting to go very far from home, Nikki attended LeMoyne College and graduated with a political science degree. Before applying at Estee Lauder in Destiny USA, Nikki researched the company’s mission statement. One of the main goals for Estee Lauder is to “make women feel good about themselves, and that is very close to my heart,” said Nikki. After reading that, Nikki knew she “could help women and this opportunity was meant to be.” While attending a class about new products and upcoming makeup trends last July, Nikki learned more about the BCRF. “The founder of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation was Estee Lauder’s daughter-in-law, who was a breast cancer survivor.” Nikki’s mother, Lisa Marcis, is a breast cancer survivor as well, and starting this fundraiser was the perfect chance to bring the whole team together and raise awareness about the disease. “Not a lot of women in my generation understand breast cancer,” explained Nikki, “and my personal goal is to make younger women knowledgeable and educated on everything about breast cancer. The BCRF Fashion Show mission is not only to raise money, but also raise awareness about the disease and who and how it affects.” Just two short months before the 2013 show, Nikki did most of the planning on her own. Last year’s event was successful as the Ramada was maxed out, and the show raised $4,000. The 2014 BCRF Fashion Show will be held on Oct. 4, from 5 to 11 p.m. at the Sky Armory in Syracuse. “I am anticipating a lot of success this year because I know that I sparked an interest in the community,” Nikki said. There will be room for 300 people, and the goal this year is to raise between $6,000 and $10,000. There are some new additions to the fashion show this year. Even though Sky Armory can hold about 500 people, there will be an “illusion of a runway to keep it trendy, yet comfortable for our models.” Also, there will be a dance floor and DJ for entertainment. “Our models this year are both breast cancer survivors and people who have supported the cause,” explained Nikki. The fashion show will be gala-themed, and cocktails will be served at the event. Each person who buys a ticket will receive a free drink on arrival. Stationed food instead of a sit-down dinner is a big change that Nikki made this year. “I want people to be up and mingling more to have more of a fun and free-spirited night.” RealtyUSA and Suburban Transportation are sponsoring the event. Tickets are available through Eventbrite at bcrfsyrgala.eventbrite.com. Anyone can make a donation to the Breast Cancer Foundation on this site as well. Tickets are now on sale, and only a limited number of tickets will be sold. Come out and support Nikki and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation at the second annual BCRF Fashion Show! For more information, visit BCRF Syracuse Gala on Facebook at facebook.com/BCRFsyrgala or use #BCRFsyrgala on Twitter. 22

september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

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man

by Alyssa LaFaro I photos by Gerard Gaskin

::swm fashionable

“When you look good you feel good, and good things happen, right?” This rhetorical question posed to me in a recent interview must be true because there’s certainly one good thing happening for interviewee Michael John Heagerty — he’s Syracuse Woman Magazine’s fashionable man this year. Michael strolled into Café Kubal for our interview looking relaxed in chestnut-colored woven espadrille slip-on loafers from Forever 21; tan CPO drawstring khakis from Urban Oufitters; and a navy blue, shortsleeve, button-up with white polka dots from H&M. Round, Lennon-esque, black-framed sunglasses from Urban Outfitters topped off the outfit. Most Syracuse residents have probably met Michael at one point or another at Kitty Hoynes Irish Pub, where he’s worked for his aunt and uncle (Cindy and David Hoyne) as a waiter for the past eight-plus years. He admits that he didn’t truly develop his style until moving to Syracuse to work at the restaurant. “Since I’m always on foot, always working at the restaurant, I need to have things to change into quickly when I’m off my shift,” he told me. He’s a little bit of an urban cowboy; he feels most at home in his vintage, brown, mid-calf boots from Modern Pop Culture, a good pair of jeans, and what he calls “ripseys” — cowboy cut shirts with snaps instead of buttons. He’s also a self-proclaimed “king of cardigans” and wears a lot of patterned clothing with dots, plaid or stripes. Others know him as the charming founder of NOexcusesSYR, a tour company that promises to unearth some lesser-known Syracuse history, said Michael. “I want to give people tours that are offthe-cuff. The concept is to meet someone new, learn something you never knew about Syracuse, and then do something you’ve never done before.” Here, he gets to really show off his style — a hybrid of new and vintage clothing. “A tour guide is meant to look the part,” explained Michael. “I think that when you make a first impression with a group of strangers, you want to feel comfortable and confident. Fashionable, knowledgeable and informative are all parts of a tour guide’s tool belt.”

Lookin’GooD, Feelin’Good An interview with SWM fashionable man Michael John Heagerty

september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

Michael’s fashion sense is, in fact, so well-known in Syracuse that earlier this year he was asked to walk down the runway in the opening ceremony at the spring edition of the Syracuse Style Fashion Show. He donned clothing from both the Mr. Shop and Oil City Customs, and walked alongside players from the Syracuse Crunch. For the upcoming fashion show, he’s been helping organizer Lisa Butler and her team with promotion via NOexcusesSYR’s social media platforms and word-of-mouth. He hopes to walk down the runway for at least one event in September. “I don’t know what makes me more fashionable than the other person walking down the street,” concluded Michael, “but I do know that fashion is simply about uniqueness, and I am a unique individual. I’m really into aesthetics, and an extension of that is wearing nice clothes that make me feel good and comfortable.” For more information on Michael’s tour business NOexcusesSYR, visit noexcusessyr.com, facebook.com/ NOexcusesSYR, or twitter.com/NOexcusesSYR.

maeflower

::cover

story

Shauna Mae Dili

Fashion, flair & feeling good in the ‘Cuse BY FARAH F. JADRAN I PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY BELL Digging through a “bargain bin” with $10 in her pocket, Shauna Mae Diliberto found some of her most cherished clothing items. “My mom was so creative,” said Shauna about the family’s trips to Thrifty Shopper stores. Although they were on a budget, Shauna learned early on that a few dollars goes a long way in the right place, and with the right mindset. “I could spend hours picking out clothes in the Thrifty Shopper,” Shauna said. “I would go crazy for polyester and floral prints. Some people might be embarrassed, but I march to the beat of my own drummer.”

Her grandmother’s closet was another exciting place to find beautiful patterns and an array of vintage clothing. Shauna said her grandmother had maybe a total of 40 items in her closet, but they were all quality pieces that she maintained with meticulous care. One of Shauna’s favorite pieces was a starch white button-up top that was always carefully washed and then hung to dry. “She rarely shopped,” Shauna reminisced, “but she looked so chic.” september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

Shopping was always a fun childhood activity for Shauna, but now it’s part of her career. Her love for vintage and chic second-hand clothing became a way of life. The question isn’t, “why vintage?” Rather, the question is — “why not vintage?” The answer is simple… It’s maeflowers vintage. One of a kind “The idea that no one else would have it…” said Shauna as she described the pure pleasure she feels when finding that one-of-a-kind piece. “You stand out in the crowd.” “Standing out” is a quality that Shauna has become known for, but not just for her unique fashion sense. Her smile is genuine and it doesn’t just light up a room — it ignites the spirit of those in her presence. From head to toe, Shauna rocks her everyday vintage ensembles. She loves fashion and the special effect vintage has on the industry. Her passion is so strong that she started her own one-of-akind business venture.

iberto’s dream...

rs vintage

In October, it will be one year since Shauna’s shop, maeflowers vintage, has been popping up all over Central New York. maeflowers vintage began with a fleet of very fashionable pieces Shauna collected while living in New York City. Although born and raised in the Syracuse area, and also a proud Liverpool High School grad, Shauna always wanted to live in NYC. However, there was only one way Shauna was going to make it to NYC. Shauna’s father, Jim Diliberto, told her, “You either get a job there or you go to college there.” With her father’s “do it” attitude — Shauna only applied to schools in NYC without telling anyone else. “I got in, and I thought…this is not happening.” Jim, with his daughter in tow, ventured to the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising (LIM) College Fashion Lab in Midtown Manhattan where Shauna would study fashion merchandising and marketing. Her dream of living in the fashion capital of the world had finally come true. Shauna’s fashion path didn’t stop there. Aside from initially working as a waitress to earn extra money, Shauna attained what she would describe as her “100 percent” dream job.

“I loved my job,” said Shauna about her post with the Macy’s merchandising group as the associate product manager for the Martha Stewart Collection. “I met a ton of amazing people. It feels good to make your dream come true…to live in the city you always thought you wanted to live in.” From NYC to a dream in CNY While Shauna’s career pursuits were in full force, it was only time until more dreams would come to fruition. Shauna and the “love of her life,” Ray Ripple, met at Coleman’s Authentic Irish Pub. Seven years of dating long distance and about 193 round trips between NYC and Syracuse led to an unforgettable engagement on the Brooklyn Bridge in 2011. The betrothed ‘Cuse couple started making more trips to the Salt City. Ray was sure to point out all the “cool” places and “hidden gems” in Syracuse. “Ray always loved Syracuse,” Shauna said. “He kept pointing out cool neighborhoods and locations for our wedding. That’s when I really started to fall back in love with Syracuse.”

story ::cover

“When I look at runways, everything is a throwback. Fashion just keeps coming back.” — Shauna Mae Diliberto

september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

Shauna traveled back and forth 10 times from NYC to Syracuse over the course of nine months to plan their nuptials. In the midst of the wedding excitement, Shauna’s love for her hometown only grew stronger. On Sept. 14, 2012, Ray and Shauna tied the knot in Franklin Square and then celebrated with a reception at Pratts Falls in Manlius.

When the couple got on a plane for their honeymoon, Shauna realized where she wanted to return afterward. “I wanted to fly home to Syracuse, not New York City,” said Shauna, as she revealed her desire to live in the big city had faded. “I wanted to come back here and be around family all the time.”For one more year, Ray and Shauna lived in Spanish Harlem in a 400-square-foot apartment. They cherished every single square-foot of space. With a marketing manager promotion on the table with Macy’s, Syracuse was still the best choice in the end. NYC was no longer the “end all, be all” of cities. Her coast-to-coast trips and even her travels to Paris were no match to the ‘Cuse. They said, “goodbye”, to a handful of close friends, and also bid farewell to the quaint Mexican restaurants near their apartment, and headed back to Syracuse for the next part of their journey. Ray took a position with the Mooney Marketing Group in Syracuse and Shauna took on the world of vintage fashion.

maeflowers vintage

With a father full of entrepreneurial spirit (as the owner of Custom Logo), and don’t forget that “do it” attitude, Shauna had an unwavering vision of opening her own vintage boutique. However, Shauna took her time in making the final decision. Even dad chimed in with the pros and cons to help his daughter make the best business decision. The move back home also opened up worlds of space in their home. Ray and Shauna claimed a trendy Tipperary Hill apartment, not too far from their first rendezvous point, Coleman’s. “I have a third bedroom declared for just clothes,” said Shauna, her collection of vintage pieces quickly outgrew their beloved place in Spanish Harlem. Besides two more bedrooms, Shauna boasts the full kitchen and the fact that they now have a dining room table. “We have a table — it’s exciting!” Shauna said. “This is huge.” That vintage collection contained some pieces that were Shauna’s, but there were other items in a variety of sizes. She was compiling this vintage stock with the hope that she would one day open a boutique. At the same time, Shauna began to realize how her fashion business would be more successful in Syracuse versus a bigger city. “People are more loyal,” Shauna said. “Places like Pastabilities are in business for a reason.” Also a firm believer in “buying local” — Shauna said she was excited to join the movement with maeflowers vintage. “I think Syracuse wants to see small businesses succeed.” The business officially came on the fashion scene in October of 2013 and the first pop-up sale was held in December at Café at 407 in the village of Liverpool. Supportive family members such as Shauna’s sister Deanna Diliberto Cordell and their aunt, Mary Ellen Diliberto Clausen, prompted this pop-up boutique. At first, Shauna was unsure of how receptive women would be to mixing a little vintage into their wardrobe. “When I look at runways, everything is a throwback,” Shauna said. “Fashion just keeps coming back.” Shauna said today’s modern fashion is “vintage inspired” and that being “ironic” or being a “dork” is cool. As one self-proclaimed dork to another (I know you’re out there!), this couldn’t be closer to the truth. After interviewing Shauna, I had to know, could I rock a vintage look? Next to my own positive experience at a maeflowers vintage pop-up sale, Shauna says many women will come to a sale in need of fashion guidance. “So many women will tell me, ‘I don’t know if I like vintage.’”

In her experience with maeflowers vintage shoppers, Shauna says most women worry about “fitting into” vintage clothing. “One girl told me she was ‘too fat to wear vintage,’” Shauna said. “She was in tears. I almost started crying for her.” She reiterated that every girl and every woman has probably felt this way, but for maeflowers vintage, it’s not about size — it’s about style. Currently, maeflowers vintage has fashions from size double-zero to 22. Despite any shaken confidence, her once distressed shopper decided to come to a pop-up sale in Clinton Square. “I already pulled stuff for her and everything she tried on, fit,” Shauna said. “She was so happy. You just have to know what’s flattering and how to dress your body.” Shauna also has an exclusive seamstress, Alice Merrick, who will tailor maeflowers vintage clothing. “This is why I’m doing it — every girl just wants to find a garment that fits her. Alice will take things in or add fabric for a better fit.”

In the name of vintage

So, where did the name come from? “I love my middle name and I love spring,” Shauna said. “And I’m obsessed with flowers.”The definition of “vintage” has changed, according to Shauna. “I customize and modernize most of the vintage pieces that I buy.” In addition, sometimes Shauna comes across a long skirt that becomes a short skirt and a knee-length skirt. Also, a long floral dress can become a separate top with a matching skirt. Each piece can be worn together, or in my case, I bought the top portion of one of these creations and I match it with my own solid-colored straight-leg trousers or a pencil skirt. These vintage pieces are then accessorized with hand-selected jewelry and items like belts and scarves that add a little extra flair to the ensemble. Whether it’s a high-neck floral dress or a solid crop-top — Shauna makes the style into a classic. “I can take anything and modernize it, but some things are not wearable…some clothes need to stay ‘back in the day,’” said Shauna as she laughed. “But for the most part, I can take ‘old stuff’ and make it into something new.” Shauna says she has enjoyed watching Syracuse and the surrounding suburbs add more vintage to their everyday style. While strengthening her brand, she is now looking ahead to the next phase for maeflowers vintage. During one of the maeflowers vintage pop-up sales, Shauna took over an Armory Square storefront for a few days. “I didn’t sell a lot during that sale, but that didn’t matter. I got to help people.” Plus, Shauna felt what it was like to have her own boutique space. “I got to own it for a couple days,” said Shauna as she remembered what it was like to turn the key. “It looked good and it felt good.” Shauna made the temporary space her own. She brought fresh flowers and even a couch to create a scene. “Shopping is a lifestyle, you should feel at home.” The next step for maeflowers vintage is to find that perfect boutique space. While the business is just one month shy of a one-year anniversary, Shauna says it might be another year before maeflowers vintage has a permanent home. However, maeflowers vintage will definitely be a part of more runway shows, vintage photo shoots and private vintage parties. Showing her styles in Syracuse Fashion Week last April was “a dream,” according to Shauna. With a grateful attitude, a genuine smile and of course, a gorgeous vintage style — Shauna has arrived. Her dreams are more than just visions. Shauna left the Salt City to take on NYC. Now she’s a fashionable entrepreneur who calls Syracuse home. To learn more about maeflowers vintage or to shop online, visit maeflowersvintage.com. Follow the vintage journey on Twitter at @ maeflowerslove, on Instagram at maeflowersvintage and on Facebook at facebook.com/maeflowersvintage. Clothing featured in this photo shoot: maeflowers vintage. Hair: Jillain Pastella Salomone, J. Luxe Salon. Makeup: Julianna Pastella. Seamstress: Alice Merrick. Location: Shauna and Ray’s Tipperary Hill apartment.

story

If you couldn’t guess by Shauna’s love for style, design and fashion, the big day was sprinkled with hints of DIY, all compliments of the bride. “I would describe it as a Syracuse shabby-chic meets Brooklyn-chic style.” Happiness manifested in Shauna’s eyes and in her words as she talked about her wedding day and how planning every detail brought her joy. From last-minute twinkly lights draping the wooden beams inside the reception space to the golden burlap used throughout — her wedding day sounded like it was one of a kind.

::cover

Before we go any further, let’s wish the happy couple a wonderful two-year wedding anniversary!

Nevertheless, Shauna has helped numerous women find out what works best with their individual look and body shape. Plus, Shauna has enjoyed reigniting the excitement in others for dressing up. “Don’t save your fancy clothes for special occasions,” said Shauna with encouragement. “You’re gonna get out of your sweatpants and go to Wegmans. Go to Empire and have brunch with some friends and wear that fancy skirt.”

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something to ::fitness

tuck about

Syracuse Pure Barre enters the fitness scene BY FARAH F. JADRAN I PHOTOS COURTESY OF PURE BARRE

You’re drenched in sweat and your muscles are shaking uncontrollably. This isn’t a marathon and it’s not a boot camp session — it’s Syracuse Pure Barre. Some techniques you’ll experience during a Syracuse Pure Barre class are most reminiscent of ballet, and other moves have hints of yoga, Pilates and special conditioning workouts for athletes. You most certainly use a ballet barre and you will be instructed to “tuck and tuck and tuck” to really feel the deep burn in your belly. Is Pure Barre for everyone? According to Cathy McKie, Pure Barre instructor and owner of Syracuse Pure Barre, one of the main reasons anyone can take part in this workout is because it involve isometric movements. “These movements are small isolated contractions of one’s isolated muscles,” Cathy said. “Since people are using their own body weight — it is an especially safe form of exercise, reducing chance of injury that people sometimes experience.” Throughout any class, the Syracuse Pure Barre instructors make personal hands-on corrections to help clients work safely, and to help them get deeper into their form, thus getting desired results safely and quickly. Because it’s been noted to be a “very safe” exercise, Cathy’s studio has many classes filled with women and men of all athletic abilities. It’s also a positive option for athletes looking to recover from an injury or to add more fitness to their workout routine. I tried a class at Syracuse Pure Barre and I was amazed. As a runner with four full marathons under her belt along with some triathlons and various other races — I was definitely put to the test. There came a point during the 55-minute class (the exact moment varies for all Pure Barre participants) when my quads were shaking 32 september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

uncontrollably. Plus, I couldn’t believe how much I was sweating and truly working every part of my body. While my class only had female participants, both men and women can benefit from Pure Barre classes. “The workout is designed to work all the major muscle groups of the body,” Cathy said. These major muscle groups include the chest, shoulders, back, arms, gluteal, thighs and abs. “These major muscle groups are worked to exhaustion, then immediately stretched out. This combination creates long lean muscles.” Cathy and her Syracuse Pure Barre instructors say that many clients have noticed becoming not only stronger, but much more flexible after taking a series of classes. “The results are fast and very effective, and people see changes in their bodies after two weeks of classes,” Cathy said. Next to signing up for your class, there’s little more that has to be done in preparation. Pure Barre class participants should wear pants, leggings or capris that they are comfortable in (no shorts) and a top that covers your midriff. Most of this athletic apparel is already in your closet, but you will have to make one important investment — sticky socks! The sticky socks can be purchased at the studio, and they’re important in retaining your body’s heat as well as preventing your feet from sliding. The instructors say, “You’ll thank us later.” And, I certainly did. Cathy says the Syracuse Pure Barre studio is filled with people doing something positive for themselves. In turn this creates a positive, supportive environment that lifts spirits — as it lifts, tones and burns bodies. For more information about Pure Barre, or to register for classes at Syracuse Pure Barre, visit purebarre.com/ny-syracuse. Syracuse Pure Barre is located at 6789 E. Genesee St. in Fayetteville.

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arts ::queen of

Where Art Meets Activism:

september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

arts

::queen of

The ArtRage Gallery by Rose Viviano & Kimberley McCoy I photos by Bob Gates & Stasya Erickson

The staff of ArtRage Gallery, Rose Viviano and Kimberley McCoy, first met when Rose was painting a 1/4-scale reproduction of Picasso’s “Guernica” in a studio at the Delavan Center. It was 2006 and the height of the Iraq War. Rose’s version of the famous painting depicting the horror of war and the suffering of innocent civilians was designed to be portable, to be carried to street protests organized by the Syracuse Peace Council. Eight years later, Rose and Kimberley work together as the director and the community engagement organizer of ArtRage. The gallery is unique to CNY in its mission to exhibit visual art solely concerning social justice issues. Before ArtRage opened in 2008, Rose and Kimberley were activists with the Syracuse Peace Council, the oldest peace organization in the country. But their passion for art and activism started earlier. In the 1970s, Rose, originally from Syracuse, graduated from the Art Institute of Boston and studied structural stained glass at the Boston Museum School of Fine Arts. During her time in Boston, she became a political organizer working on issues such as domestic violence, racism and prison. In the late ’80s, she returned to Syracuse and eventually opened a glass studio called Rose Colored Glass. In addition to creating original work, she restored many CNY historic church windows. After the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, with the fear of escalating hate and violence in retaliation, Rose was moved to get involved with the Syracuse Peace Council, which introduced her to the Syracuse Cultural Workers (SCW), a peace and justice art publishing business that grew out of the Peace Council in 1982. In 2007, when the SCW’s president, Dik Cool, had the idea to begin a social justice art gallery in Syracuse’s Hawley-Green neighborhood, he knew Rose would be the perfect cofounder. Throughout Rose’s life, art and activism had always been separate, but as the director of ArtRage, she’s found the perfect way to combine her love for the arts with her drive to work for a more just and peaceful world. Kimberley, on the other hand, sought out a connection of art and activism early on in college. She studied art history at Syracuse University, and simultaneously got involved with campus activism, having been inspired by anti-corporate globalization activism like the 1999 Seattle World Trade Organization protest. When she wasn’t marching in protests, she was in lecture hall learning how famous artists like Goya, Picasso or Kollwitz used their art to speak out against war. She continued to seek out artists who used their art to raise awareness, focusing on more contemporary artists like the Bread & Puppet Theater or the Beehive Collective. During college, Kimberley began working with the Syracuse Peace Council, and after graduating she became an AmeriCorps VISTA, designing community art programs for youth. She later attended the Arts Administration master’s program at Boston University, hoping that her master’s degree would be useful at a non-profit arts organization like ArtRage. Sure enough, she was hired there in 2010. Rose and Kimberley have been the two staff members at ArtRage ever since.

None of this would have been possible without the third woman behind the ArtRage Gallery, Ruth Putter. Ruth passed away this past April at the age of 95. She was an artist whose work on women’s rights and photo-documentation of local peace demonstrations fit right in on ArtRage Gallery walls. Ruth was ArtRage’s founding donor. She provided the funds for gallery renovations and to get the organization up and running. She did it as a memorial to her late husband Norton, an activist in his own right. Naming the gallery, ArtRage – the Norton Putter Gallery, pays tribute to Ruth and her husband Norton’s social activism. ArtRage is a unique and special space in Syracuse. It’s one of the only independently run, non-profit art galleries in CNY. Its mission to exhibit art on social justice themes means that the exhibitions are always poignant and relevant. The exhibitions serve to educate, inspire and spark dialogue; and are fueled by the belief that themes of war, poverty or racism are amazingly powerful and that the public wants to see them. As a non-profit organization with an annual budget of about $100,000, funds are primarily raised through individual donations, grants, fundraising events and sales in the gift shop. ArtRage also has amazing volunteers and a committed, hardworking board of directors. On Sept. 6, ArtRage begins its seventh exhibition season. It will open with its first-ever juried exhibition, called “GLOBALissues. CLIMATEmatters.socialCHANGE.” From more than 200 submissions, the jurors selected 23 works that will be on view until Oct. 18. The show includes 12 CNY artists, as well as artists from across North America. The work deals with a variety of themes including healthcare, the prison system, environmentalism and religion. As in all of their past seasons, ArtRage will feature both local and national artists. The season also includes four other exhibitions: “Trans*cending Gender: The work of Gavin Laurence Rouille and Rhys Harper,” “Selma to Montgomery March at 50: Civil Rights Photographs by Matt Herron,” “Capillary Reaction: Hydrofracking and Irrevocable Loss – The paintings of Ron Throop” and “Impressions: South Sudan – The Photographs of Michelle Gabel and Bruce Strong.” In addition to exhibitions, ArtRage hosts many evening and weekend events. Programming such as artist talks, workshops and films accompany each exhibition. This year will be its third year hosting the Gifford Foundation “What If…” film series, which screens documentaries about communities working together for change. ArtRage also hosts events for other community organizations and individuals. On any given night you may be able to see a poetry reading, meet a local author at a book-signing, or attend an organization’s educational event. The staff and board want the gallery to be visited and used by the community as much as possible, and want everyone to feel welcome. ArtRage believes that everyone has the right to art and that art is essential to building an open, just world. Next time you visit, make sure to check out the print of Picasso’s “Guernica” hanging in the back hallway. syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2014

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::wboc’s leading

DIVING

woman

headfirst into wboc by Alyssa LaFaro I photo by Cindy Bell

“I think you need to jump right in if you’re going to do something,” said Carol Kolceski. That’s exactly what she did when she started POW Promos, a print and promotional product company, last September. It only took Carol one month to join WBOC (Women Business Opportunities Connections), and by June 2014 she was already a member on the marketing committee and a new director at large on the board. She will celebrate one year of being in business this month. Like Carol’s above declaration, POW Promos lets other business owners jump right in, too. “My clients can get their logo designed and all the marketing materials to display that new logo — business cards, a notebook, a letterhead, polo shirts, trade show booth materials — from me,” she explained. “My competitors are large organizations that require customers to go through the chain of command to get art quotes, design feedback, delivery information, etc. I provide customer service and a live person to talk to, and handle all of my customers’ needs personally.” The idea for POW Promos came from years of working for several different companies, Carol told me. “Eventually I realized it was time to focus on what I love most — the print and promotional side of things. I had been in sales and marketing positions for more than 20 years, 15 of which I had gained experience with custom printing and promotional products, as well as selling office supplies. I always felt like I was selling everything and didn’t have enough focus. Once I fulfilled my contract with my former employer, I made the change to start my own business.” Carol’s clients serve a menagerie of industries, but she gets a steady flow of nonprofits, as well as engineering and architectural firms. “And then just a lot of individuals,” she added, which is one reason why membership in WBOC is so important to her. “A lot of the women I meet at WBOC are just getting their businesses started,” she explained, “so they need business cards, banners, their logo on a polo shirt. “However, WBOC, for me, has been more about the support and encouragement,” she continued. “They are just a fantastic group of women doing the same thing I am and providing lots of educational tools and guidance to their peers.” They’ve provided more than that for Carol. POW Promos was presented WBOC’s first-ever Opportunity Grant, which has aided Carol in building her website and social media strategy. WBOC also provided her with the WISE Symposium entrance fee, awarded to a new female startup business to help her meet other women in business. “The organization has connected me with some of the most inspiring, supportive and brilliant women in Upstate New York. I am very appreciative of everything they’ve done for me, and I’m appreciative of what I’ve gotten out of it.” So, in return, Carol pays it forward. She joins committees and runs for board positions. She offers her services and hires the services of others (Allison Zales from Choose Change organized her office, for example). And she simply enjoys a glass of wine with these women and makes friends. For the future, she already plans to be a part of the holiday auction committee. “I’d like to see some great items donated for the auction that will go towards the Opportunity Grant, as well as have great attendance at the event. The key is getting involved with people, and then they will want to get involved with you.” Carol’s dived in. Have you?

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2014

woman ::healthy

Get in the

Spirit with Crouse Hospital

by Leesa Kelley

Founded by women for women in 1887, the Crouse Hospital legacy of caring for women and infants carries on today. So does the tradition of women leading the hospital, with Kimberly Boynton being named president and CEO earlier this year. One thing that hasn’t changed, however, is women today remain the primary healthcare consumers and decision makers for their families. That’s why Crouse Hospital has become the exclusive Spirit of Women hospital in Central New York. “Building on our proud tradition of caring for women, Crouse has joined this national program to expand and enrich services and programs that women need and want,” said Boynton. “We invite women of all ages to become members of the Crouse Spirit of Women program. It’s free and easy to join, and will give us all a chance to learn about improving our health together.” Crouse Spirit of Women is about health and wellness education and empowerment — and having a good time. They’ve developed the term “healthutainment,” where “u” are in the middle of your health and entertainment. A few examples of this include Crouse’s “Day of Dance for Your Health” this past June, and a dress-up ladies only party called “Dress Up Your Life with Confidence and Good Health” set for Oct. 2. Both events demonstrate to women and their families that learning new ways to get and stay healthy can be just what the doctor ordered when she tells her patients to take care of themselves first. “Women have so many roles in life — including serving as their families’ chief medical officer — that they often lose track of taking care of themselves,” explained Kathleen Miller Murphy, RNC, CCE, Crouse Hospital’s manager of community education and development, and Spirit of Women program coordinator. “We need to take time to do something good for ourselves. Whether it is a fun night out with friends or learning something new from our health education emails, Crouse Spirit of Women has something for everyone at every age.” With more than 150 hospitals in 100-plus cities across America, Spirit of Women partners seek to educate women and their loved ones about key health topics, such as physical activity for the working mother, keeping your heart healthy, the importance of mammograms, and concerns from pre-pregnancy through menopause.

“Our Dress Up Your Life event in October touches on many of those topics, with a ‘Speed Date Your Doctor’ session for women looking for a physician and/or to ask specific questions, a presentation about becoming your best self, professional bra fittings and answers to questions about mammograms, along with pampering treatments, shopping, live music, food and beverages,” added Murphy. Presented in conjunction with N a t u r - Ty m e and Y-94 FM, tickets for Dress Up Your Life are $25 each and can be purchased at Natur-Tyme or online at crouse. org/blackdressevent. The evening’s festivities also include shopping at Nature-Tyme’s Closet for Charities, which will donate all proceeds that night to the Crouse Health Foundation. Funds raised will be used to further the work of Crouse Hospital’s Spirit of Women HeartCaring Program. This innovative initiative unites women, local physicians and Crouse Hospital to improve the cardiovascular health of women in Central New York. Crouse Hospital wants women to join them for one or all of the upcoming Spirit programs. “Together we can exhibit the kind of spirit that makes a difference in yet another generation of women in our community,” said Boynton. For more information on Crouse Spirit of Women, visit crouse.org/services/ spiritofwomen.

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writes ::reads &

Refusing to live by Maggie Lamond Simone

I joke that “Body Punishment: OCD, Alcoholism and Learning to Fight Back” took 40 years to live and another seven to write, but that’s actually pretty accurate. I quit drinking at 28, but didn’t understand the OCD connection to my behaviors until last year — by then I’d written the book over several years, assuming they were self-injuring or impulse-control disorders. In 2013, the DSM-5 (diagnostic manual for the psychiatric profession) reclassified my issues as OCD, which made much more sense to me. Many people were kind enough to read the drafts of “Body Punishment” through the years for consistency, clarity and typographical issues, and while they were incredibly supportive, a few asked, “Why would you do this? Put this stuff out there when you seem to be doing okay?” And I guess there’s your answer — I am doing okay. I’ve had many years to get okay, beginning when I first told my kids about being a drunk and realizing there were a few more secrets in there somewhere — but not after losing decades to not being okay. I want to help someone else be okay at 16, or 20, or 30 even — to realize that all of this is livable, if not curable. OCD and alcoholism should not be the defining elements of a life; they’re just a part of it, like having flat feet or diabetes. Parts of yourself that you have to learn to live with, certainly, but once you do, they fade into the background and become just another thing. There is no shame attached. The shame comes in not being able to talk about it. I would not trade a second of my life, because I had to go through what I went through to be where I’m at. But if someone had told me at 10 years old that I wasn’t the only kid in the world who pulled out her eyelashes, I know my life would have been different. The shame of OCD behaviors — of the inability to stop doing them — is more damaging than the behaviors themselves, and that’s something I can control. I can talk about it so that other people don’t have to feel like they’re the only ones. And that’s where the shame ends. As humans we can live with a lot of things … but we shouldn’t have to live with shame.

I signed up for karate two weeks before I turned 30. I was single and had been sober one year. I had not yet discovered anti-depressants and was convinced my uncontrollable mood swings and anxiety were just really bad PMS. I plucked out my eyelashes and eyebrows and picked at my face if no hair was available. I’d recently been scolded by an attending physician at the local psychiatric hospital for an ineffective attempted suicide, apparently because I’d gotten him out of bed, and I planned my meals around the belief that if I could just get down to skin and bones, I could start over. When I put on my karate uniform for the first time I weighed 99 pounds, and one of the other women in class was laughing because she couldn’t pull my size 0 skirt up over her thigh. I was obsessed with my body, the most recent in a lifetime of changeable and often unbearable obsessions. I was, from my first conscious memory, a perpetual outsider, a living, breathing exposed nerve, destined through some twisted karma to feel unworthy of living at every turn. It wasn’t —

isn’t — simply a function of feeling sorry for myself; it’s a matter of truly, madly, deeply feeling that absolutely everyone else is better september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

than me. Defining “better” gets a little tricky, particularly since by general standards I’m intelligent, well-educated and often successful, but in my life “better” generally meant “more deserving of life.” I’d spent the vast majority of my life feeling like a freak, because there couldn’t possibly be anybody else on earth who did to herself what I did to myself. There couldn’t be another human being who felt about herself the way I felt about myself. And I could never understand why someone who was so smart — and I was so smart — could feel that way, act that way, do those things without being able to stop. How could I intellectually rationalize pulling out my eyelashes? I couldn’t. But if I couldn’t rationalize it, then why couldn’t I stop? I couldn’t do that either. Instead I spent my first two decades searching for the solution to the indefinable void where my sense of self should have been, and the next decade pretending I didn’t need it. I’ve since found out, of course, that the void is no longer undefinable. But until I found out what it was — at the embarrassingly late age of 52, after taking my daughter to therapy for three years for some of the exact same manifestations — I was always looking for something to blame. If I could find it, then maybe I could fix it. Was it my childhood? If it was, how come none of my siblings did what I did? Was it self-esteem? Was it the red hair? I felt like an outsider since I was old enough to know what an outsider was, and I needed to know why. All the things I did — plucking out my eyelashes; picking at scabs and, later, my skin; avoiding cracks in the sidewalk when I was a kid; counting in my head until I got to a certain number, over and over; panicking if I didn’t know what time we were leaving a function, even as an adult — all of these behaviors were so random that I didn’t even know where to begin to find a common thread. And so for almost 40 years I thought I was simply a melting pot for crazy. But I wasn’t. Almost all of my “bizarre” behaviors were explained by one section in the latest comprehensive mental disorder manual, the DSM-5: What I have is obsessive-compulsive disorder. One term. One concept. OCD. Throw in anxiety and alcoholism, and it all falls into place. Back then, though—as a kid, through adolescence, puberty, teens, twenties, thirties — all I knew was this: I was a freak, and I was alone. Maggie Lamond Simone is a national award-winning columnist and author, and a Central New York resident. Her humor and observational essays have appeared since 2002 in Family Times, an award-winning monthly parenting magazine in CNY. Her columns also appeared in the Sunday edition of the Syracuse Herald American from 1995 through 2001. Her latest manuscript, “Body Punishment: OCD, Alcoholism and Learning to Fight Back,” will be available in April 2015. To learn more about Maggie, visit maggielamondsimone.com.

with the SHAME

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2014

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Inspire syracuse women

CYNTHIA GIANNUZZI Co-Owner, Clothes Mentor

BY AMARI D. POLLARD I PHOTO BY RICK NEEDLE

Every woman’s sense of fashion stems from somewhere or from someone. Often, that person tends to be her mother. Do you remember trying on your mother’s heels and stumbling around the house? And then you watched her apply makeup in front of the armoire, transforming into the woman you hoped to look like one day. With her mother’s influence, Cynthia Giannuzzi, the co-owner of Clothes Mentor in DeWitt and Clay, found a love for style and fashion. An Illinois native, Cynthia attended college in her home state, concentrating on special education, before ever thinking of entering into the world of fashion. “I did not really get involved … with the fashion industry until I arrived here in Syracuse in 1979. At that point in time, Joseph and I became co-partners in Joseph Anthony & Company,” she said of her husband Joseph Giannuzzi. “So that’s where it started … in the hair industry.” While working in the aesthetics division (skin care, nail care, cosmetics, etc.) of Joseph Anthony & Company, Cynthia started to experiment with imaging. People who didn’t know how to quite put an outfit together would come into the salon and Cynthia would shop for them. Before Clothes Mentor, Cynthia and Joseph owned an upscale consignment boutique on James Street for 10 years. Later on, through a friend’s involvement with the Clothes Mentor franchise, the couple was given the opportunity to view a site and they fell in love with the concept. “With the concept of Clothes Mentor, we look at all seasons; it’s cash up front and no appointments are necessary so there’s no waiting game. So, this was perfect. I didn’t have to do all the other busy work of consignment,” Cynthia explained. Following their introduction to Clothes Mentor, there were no questions — they had to bring it back to Syracuse. And come this November, the Clothes Mentor site in DeWitt will be celebrating its fourth anniversary. The Giannuzzi duo says what makes their stores stand out is the fact that they pay cash on the spot and have great customer service while giving special attention to the customers during their one-on-one time. Clothes Mentor is designed for the Coach lover, the Michael Kors lover and the Ralph Lauren lover — they can all be found at either location. On top of offering a variety of designer labels from size zero to 26, Clothes Mentor offers an array of options from intimate wear to athletic wear to maternity wear, and everything in between. “Our concept is to dress your body beautiful at a great price,” promised Cynthia. Since fashion is always evolving and being recycled, people can expect to see a variety of trending styles available in the store. Cynthia has noticed a lot of styles that she wore in the ’60s and ’70s have started to make a comeback. She is seeing the sleeveless dress becoming very popular again, along with the bohemian-style dress, pencil skirts, wider pant legs, satchel bags and higher heels that are more sculpted. When it comes to their work, Cynthia and Joseph recognize each other’s strengths and understand that they need each other to run a (continued on page 46)

inspire

“Eco stands for ecological and economical, and ‘chic’ speaks for itself!”

::sw

FRAN HARWOOD Owner, EcoChic Boutique

BY SAMANTHA MCCARTHY I PHOTO BY JUSSARA POTTER

“I’ve always felt that clothing has an enormous impact on how others perceive us, but most importantly on how we feel about ourselves,” said Fran Harwood, owner of EcoChic Boutique in DeWitt. “My background is in the arts, so combining colors, textures and patterns are a very natural process for me.” Having an art background helped Fran gain an interest in the fashion industry. She took a “leap of faith” when she started her own business in Central New York. Fran wanted to open a store that fit women’s needs. Lorraine Koury, the owner of Boom Babies in Syracuse, served as a mentor to Fran before she opened her own store. “My time at Boom Babies opened my eyes to the importance of creativity and experimentation in the retail environment,” Fran shared. EcoChic Boutique is a place where women can “feel comfortable trying on different styles and enjoy fashion trends in a relaxed atmosphere.” Fran’s store has been open for almost five years and is located on the corner of East Genesee Street and Jamesville Road in DeWitt. EcoChic Boutique sells pre-owned clothing that is nearly new. “Many of my consignors shop while traveling, so they bring me a very diverse selection of items from all over the world that you won’t find anywhere else in Syracuse,” Fran explained. Likewise, Fran travels to Italy twice a year to purchase clothing and accessories for her store, which provides more choices than department stores. “A lot of professional women shop here, so we have a wide range of options for them, but we also get a lot of students and retirees looking for more casual attire,” Fran said. “You could say the overall style is eclectic, and I mostly try to provide unusual and unique pieces.” Fran has been noticing that fashion trends and styles are not always accepted. The focus of EcoChic Boutique is the individual who walks in the door and to make them feel comfortable in their personal style, said Fran. “My goal is to find what works best for their body type and personality, and what is really important to me is helping women look and feel their best regardless of trends.” Fran has lived in the Syracuse area for more than 20 years where she studied at Syracuse University and met her husband. “The city has a lot to offer, and I’m happy to be a part of the local economy,” said Fran about starting her business. There were three components that went into the name of Fran’s store: high style, environmentally friendly and low-cost. “Eco stands for ecological and economical, and ‘chic’ speaks for itself!” As a local business owner, Fran tries to give back to her community. “At the end of each season, I make donations to charities that help empower women.” EcoChic Boutique has donated clothing to Vera House and Chadwick House in the past. In addition, the store has participated in numerous fashion shows to raise money for The Women’s Opportunity Center, Ophelia’s Place and a handful of other organizations.

september 2014 :: syracuseWomanMag.com

Last year, “Team EcoChic” began participating in the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Syracuse, an awareness event through (continued on page 46)

::sw

“I can’t wait to come to work every day.”

inspire

KATHIE MORRIS

Owner, The Changing Room BY KAILYN JENNINGS I PHOTO BY GERARD H. GASKIN

Figuring out what you want to do with your life may seem like a daunting task. For Kathie Morris, the answer was simple — fashion. “Owning my own women’s clothing store has been a lifelong dream, which has now come true here in Syracuse,” she said. “I don’t remember a time in my life when I wasn’t interested in fashion and dressing up. Maybe it started as a child with Barbie or paper dolls, but it seems like it has always been part of me.” When she was in high school, Kathie was selected to work and model for a local department store, which opened up opportunities at various other department stores and women’s boutiques. “I was bitten by the retail bug, and whatever else I did, like becoming a licensed cosmetologist, aerobics instructor, community volunteer, etc., all turned into opportunities for me to be involved with fashion, clothing and accessories.” Kathie found her passion, which opened more doors while she lived in Rochester. “I was fortunate to sell designer clothing while working in high-end boutiques, and I sharpened my display skills at Cohoes, where I was department manager,” she continued. “I was also a manager and buyer for two hospital gift shops. More recently, I worked at Macy’s after moving to Syracuse.” Kathie then made the decision to open her own clothing store — The Changing Room. The Downtown Syracuse location shares space with A la Maison, with the motto, “One door ... two beautiful stores.” The original location is on Syracuse Street in Baldwinsville. “I began with a very small space there,” Kathie said. “I was able, over time, to grow into my current space. I love the whole feeling of that building. It is a fun and very girly atmosphere.” In March, Kathie opened another location on South Warren Street in Downtown Syracuse with Michele Graham, owner of A la Maison. “We had been looking to expand to downtown for quite a while and feel very fortunate to have found this beautiful location. We believe in the future of downtown — that it will be a vital and very exciting part of this community — and we are thrilled to be part of it.” As you walk in the downtown store, you are met with soft colors — brown, pink and cream. The overhead lighting highlights the vintageinspired clothing and accentuates the jewelry displays. “The clothing has a West Coast vibe and is vintage-inspired, feminine and very comfortable,” she said. “I am inspired by clothing with a ’70s feel that has great attention to detail.” Kathie sells clothing designed in Los Angeles and New York City, and she even carries a line of French-designed couture. Upstate New York may not seem to fit in with those places, but Kathie found her niche. “I would say that my clothes were not the typical Syracuse style,” she said. “By that, I mean that my style of clothing was not what was commonly seen here when I moved to Syracuse eight years ago. Three years later, when The Changing Room opened, some people embraced it right away, while others were not sure what it was.” (continued on page 46)

syracuseWomanMag.com :: september 2014

CYNTHIA GIANNUZZI

fran harwood

kathie morris

successful business. After being partners for more than 30 years, they say working together comes naturally.

the American Cancer Society. “We raised some money for a great cause, and it was a wonderful way to form new relationships and deepen existing ones with customers and consignors,” Fran said. Team EcoChic will be taking part in the event again this year, and Fran invites customers to join the team. Details on the event and Team EcoChic will soon be available on EcoChic Boutique’s Facebook page.

The clothing is not “wear once,” but rather versatile. Kathie explained this to me by pairing the same brown dress with various other items, making outfits for a dinner date, work and a wedding.

::sw

inspire

(cont)

“We love working together. We have our strengths, we have our weaknesses, and we blend them together. It’s a win-win,” said Joseph. Between the two, it’s the perfect balancing act. Cynthia handles the floor, and has a manager who is an extension of what she does, while Joseph is in charge of the bookkeeping and promotions. “It’s very comfortable, and we play off each other. It’s like having that one person that you don’t have to think with, they kind of fill in all the gaps,” Cynthia added. “We’ve worked together since 1979. I can’t imagine not working with him. I think it would be difficult if I didn’t have him around and vice versa.” When asked what Joseph finds inspiring about Cynthia, he quickly and firmly replied: “Everything.” “Her passion, her energy, her sincerity. She loves what she’s doing, she loves helping. She’s a giver — that’s probably her strongest suit — and all of her energy is around giving; she’s not a taker by any means,” he explained. “It’s a pleasure to watch that, because unfortunately in society you see too many people wanting to take, take, take. I enjoy those the most — seeing her passion, seeing her excitement. She energizes other people.” For more information, find your local Clothes Mentor on Facebook at facebook.com/clothesmentorclay.

(cont)

“EcoChic is a very funky, non-traditional store,” said Fran. EcoChic Boutique’s number-one priority is customer service, and the staff is upbeat and outgoing to help women feel comfortable while shopping. Most of the time Fran and her staff help women create head-to-toe outfits including accessories, shoes, jewelry and handbags. “We also add new pieces to our inventory every day, and items go on sale after a month in the store, so there is always a new treasure to find and the prices are very reasonable.” Fran is a passionate business owner, and her passion is only continuing to grow with every satisfied shopper that leaves EcoChic Boutique. For more information, visit EcoChic Boutique on Facebook at facebook.com/EcoChicSyracuse, or visit the website at ecochicboutique.biz.

(cont)

“I don’t want to sell a dress that will only be worn once and then just hang in your closet,” Kathie explained. “I look for pieces that can be dressed up or dressed down through layering or accessorizing. I also look for pieces that can be worn by women regardless of age.” Fall is right around the corner, so Kathie encourages women to check out the new styles. “You will be seeing high-low hems, Oxford flats, fun hats and plaid,” Kathie shared. “We will be showing these looks, but with The Changing Room twist.” And don’t worry — Kathie is more than happy to help you. “I can’t wait to come to work every day,” she said. “I love the personal styling aspect, helping women find clothes that they love, and making them feel happy, confident and beautiful,” Kathie said. “I believe the magic happens in a changing room. I’m here to help them find an outfit or piece of clothing that puts a smile on their face and that they will love to wear.” For more information, find the two stores on Facebook at facebook.com/alamaisonandthechangingroom.

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Syracuse Woman Magazine

events SWM’s Events SIXTH ANNUAL SYRACUSE IRON GIRL Syracuse Woman Magazine wants to congratulate all the 2014 Syracuse Iron Girl finishers! The sixth annual Iron Girl Syracuse Women’s Triathlon took place on Sunday, Aug. 3, at Oneida Shores Park in Brewerton. The Iron Girl event series is an opportunity for women of all ages to come together as a community. To be fit, to be healthy, and to celebrate the joy of living well —that is the Iron Girl lifestyle. This year’s event included a special first wave that raised funds for Hope for Heather Ovarian Cancer Awareness, a local organization that also raises funds for ovarian cancer research. For more information, visit hopeforheather.org. 2014 CREDIT UNION CLASSIC PRESENTED BY WEGMANS The 2014 Credit Union Classic presented by Wegmans ran from July 28 through Aug. 3 at Drumlins Country Club in Syracuse. Veronica Felibert shot a 6-under 65 on the final day of the Symetra Tour to earn her first career victory on the tour at the Credit Union Classic presented by Wegmans. The Credit Union Classic champion, born in Venezuela, started playing golf at age 7. She credits her parents as being her main influence on her golf career. Felibert birdied three of her final four holes to seize control and win by three strokes over Lindy Duncan. For more information, visit symetratour. com. Photos courtesy of Symetra Tour Media.

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september 2014

EVENTS CALENDAR

Landmark Theatre Window Project

16 Hospice CNY’s September Song

19 Syracuse Bicycle Breast Cancer Awareness

october 4 2nd Annual Miles for Molly Walk

october 4

WHEN: 7:30 to 8:30 PM WHAT: Kick-start Syracuse Fashion Week when downtown Syracuse comes alive for an encore presentation of the Landmark Theatre Widow Project. Come watch fashion, commerce and creativity all intersect as local businesses unveil their decorated windows for Syracuse Style. WHERE: Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse INFO: For more information, visit facebook.com/Syracusefashionweek. WHEN: 6:30 to 10 PM WHAT: September Song is Hospice of Central New York’s largest fundraiser of the year, promising an evening of music, dinner, dancing and fun. Proceeds go to filling the gaps left when Medicare, Medicaid and insurances refuse to cover certain medications and treatments for patients. WHERE: Traditions at the Links, 5900 N. Burdick St., East Syracuse WHEN: 10 AM WHAT: Help raise awareness for breast cancer prevention, screening and treatment. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Central New York and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. So grab the family and join Syracuse as it bikes towards a better future for those diagnosed with breast cancer. WHERE: Green Lakes State Park, 7900 Green Lakes Rd., Fayetteville INFO: For more information, visit syracusebicycle.com. WHEN: 11 AM WHAT: Established in honor of Molly, a Yorkshire terrier rescued from a puppy mill in Missouri, Molly’s Wish hosts the Miles for Molly Walk to educate the public on the cruelty of puppy mills. Dogs are welcome. WHERE: Driver’s Village, 5885 E. Circle Dr., Cicero INFO: $20 walk includes a t-shirt and goody bag. For more information, visit mollyswish.org.

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