Tcnyw may 2014 web by Courtney Rae Kasper

Free

MAY 2014

TODAY’S CNY

CARRIE LAZARUS

t o d ay s c n y w o m a n .c o m

on Racing for the Cure

INSIDE: Shop Local: Brooklea Drive What’s Your Garden Style Profile? NOVEMBER 2013

Cooking Fresh with bc’s Chef Marsh

1 todayscnywoman.com

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Childhood.

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NOW IT IS.

Are you spending $2,800 or more per yearto heat your home with Propane or Oil? Are you spending $100 or more per month in electricity? If you answered yes to these questions then call TAG Mechanical Systems now.

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TODAY’S CNY

woman editor-in-chief Courtney Rae Kasper

letter from the editor

Senior editor Joanne Settel Moore

Being a Well-Woman

associate editor Ashley M. Casey editorial intern Vekonda Luangaphay PhotographERs Amelia Beamish Emily Jureller Alice G. Patterson Designer Tamaralee Shutt assistant designer Mary Austin Ad Representatives John Gaca Patti Puzzo Contributors Olivia Bitetti, Nicole Chenet, Kathe Harrington, Nell Killoran, Joely Live, Joleene Moody, Nicole Rice

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SCotsman Media Group President Bill Veit Associate Publisher Richard Westover Associate Publisher Courtney Rae Kasper Distribution David Spearing

will not knowingly accept or publish advertising which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertising. The Scotsman Media Group assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors in advertisements, but if at fault, will reprint the portion of the ad in which the error appears. Style, size of type and location of advertisements are left to the discretion of the publisher. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Copyright 2013 Scotsman Press. 750 W. Genesee St. • Syracuse, NY 13204

Breast cancer has effected most of us in some way or another, whether it was a family member, close friend, colleague, or a personal scare—and unfortunately, it is a disease that we’re still fighting for to find an answerable cure. For this month’s cover gal, the ‘C’ word hit home during a time when breast cancer wasn’t a topic that was spoken about freely. Her late mother, Blanche Lazarus, was diagnosed with the disease at age 45. Although her mother survived, Lazarus opens up in this month’s cover story about the experimental procedure that saved her mother’s life and taking on the role as the 2014 Susan G. Komen Central New York’s Race for the Cure Honorary Chair. A longtime health advocate, Lazarus has been involved with Komen CNY’s first race back in the early 1990s at ShoppingTown Mall. The event has now grown from 800 to 9,000 participants, and Lazarus says she’s honored to play an important part in the 20th Anniversary race on May 17 at the New York State Fairgrounds. CNY Woman will be there, too! See details on page 22 on how you can join our Race for the Cure team. If you need some couch-to-5K inspiration, don’t worry—we have you covered in this issue’s health piece “Running 101.” While we’re on the subject of health, let’s not forget that May also marks National Women’s Health Week (May 11–17). Mark your calendars for May 12—the 12th annual National Women’s Checkup Day— and pledge to be a well-woman by scheduling regular screenings and exams now. Spread the word through social media with the hashtag #NWHW! (Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, such checkups are considered a preventive service and covered by most health plans free of charge.) And for some exciting news of our own, we recently brought home several national titles, including third-place for most improved free glossy publication Contact us 315-472-7825 todayscnywoman.com

Carrie Lazarus with daughter Dani at Komen CNY Race for the Cure 1994; Blanche Lazarus (right) and an honorable mention for general excellence. Thank you to our loyal readers, contributors, and advertisers for your ongoing support—this is just the start of making CNY Woman the go-to local women’s lifestyle magazine. Starting with this issue, you’ll notice a few new and exciting additions, as we pledge to bring you better content that captures the lifestyle of CNY women. In the Know will bring you the must-see-and-do talk of the town; Home & Garden provides industry expert advice on sprucing up interior and exterior dwelling spaces; Shop Local spotlights the best finds in our region; and Food For Thought serves up a seasonal ingredientinspired recipe from local chefs to serve at your table—bon appétit. Stay well, and we wish you all a Happy Mother’s Day—see you at Race for the Cure on May 17!

#KeepReadingLocal,

Associate Publisher & Editor-in-Chief @CourtneyRKasper

Get Your Family Memories Into Your Life

Back

Attend our FREE Event- Photo and Memory Organizing Get advice and guidance from the experts! Bring your photos, slides, Super 8 movies, VHS tapes—even scrapbooks and photo albums—for a free estimate. Save on shipping as Eric and Jennifer take orders back to their office with them.

In Utica: Wed May 14, 2014 from 6:00pm-7:30pm Mohawk Valley Community College IT Building, Room AC 116

In Syracuse: Thursday May 15, 2014 from 6:00pm-7:30pm CrestHill Suites 410 New Venture Gear Dr., East Syracuse

Work right with the experts:

RSVP required: www.decluttercoachdeb.com > “Events”or call (315) 794-9495

MAY 2014 Cover

Carrie Lazarus photography by Alice G. Patterson photos taken at NewsCHannel 9

» in the know 8 News & EVEnts

Exodus 3 Ministries fashion show, blowout 2014, and more local happenings

12 Celebrations

Contest winners Morgan and Josh tie the knot

14 Storefront

Venturing out with new business Pride + Joy

»cny it girls

16 CNY Inspiring Teen Girls Racing ahead with 10-year-old drag car racer Natalie Musolino

»women ties

AUGUST 2013

t o d ay s c n y w o m a n .c o m

17 Uptown style

Q&A with Michalle Harmon of Sasha’s Salon and Spa

»features 18 Carrie Lazarus

Honorary chair of Komen CNY’s race for the cure

24 remembering jill

tribute to an inspirational fighter

27 Cynthia mckenzie

portrait of a survivor

»shop local 30 13066

Discover the shops of Brooklea Drive.

»home & garden 34 Inside out

What’s your garden personality?

»health 35 get up and go

beginner’s guide to running

»food for thought 36 focus on

asparagus

»inspiration 38 you can do it

Navigating the path to leadership

AUGUST 2013

in the know: NEWS & EVENTS Humans of Syracuse

LeMura named president of Le Moyne Our September 2013 cover star Linda LeMura has made higher education history. She’s been named the first female president of Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York. The college’s board of trustees unanimously selected her as the college’s 14th president on April 3. LeMura is the first laywoman to serve as the head of a Jesuit institution. She succeeds Fred Pestello, who is leaving Le Moyne after six years to take the helm at St. Louis University, another Jesuit school in St. Louis, Missouri. LeMura, a Syracuse native, has served as Le Moyne’s provost and vice president of academic affairs since 2007. She joined Le Moyne in 2003 as dean of arts and sciences. — Ashley M. Casey

Hello, neighbors I was walking down Butternut Street when I saw these beautifully colorful women, and so hoped they’d allow me to take a photo. They were happy to, and were laughing as they set up their pose. I asked where they were from originally. “Bhutan.” Then the eldest of the three said, “We should probably say Nepal.” We fumbled with my phone putting in contact info, which I promptly lost! I hope they find this photo so I can bring them a copy.

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— Kathe Harrington, Humans of Syracuse Founder

Kathe Harrington, of Eastwood, is the founder and photographer of the Humans of Syracuse Facebook page, which was inspired by the popular Humans of New York page. Follow her work and connect with her by liking humansofsyracuse.

Fortune publishes children’s book Oswego native and Scotsman Media Group employee Elizabeth Marie Fortune has released her first children’s book, Shhh, Quiet, Listen: What Do You Hear When You Listen for God? Fortune, a customer service representative with the Scotsman’s commercial printing department, now lives in Camillus with her husband, William, and their 7-year-old daughter, Erin. She published the book through Inspiring Voices, an Indiana-based publishing company that specializes in spiritual literature. Fortune began writing the book in 2009 while at home with Erin and found that many of the books she read to her daughter lacked a spiritual message.

something to talk about? We love hearing from you, so give us a holler at editor@todayscnywoman or tweet us @CNYWoman, post on Facebook/CNYWoman or Instagram @CNYWomanMag!

“I saw there was a need for this type of book,” Fortune says. “As Erin was getting older, that’s when the concept came about because I saw how kids are really busy.” Fortune said part of the book’s message is to take time from one’s busy day to be thankful. She plans to write a series of religious children’s books. Shhh, Quiet, Listen is available on amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, and the Connection Point bookstore at 198 W. First St., Oswego. — Ashley M. Casey

The House that Hope Built A fashionable benefit to help women of Exodus 3 Ministries transform their lives

Exodus 3 Ministries was incorporated in 2010. While the organization continues to meet and support women at their own homes, in October 2012, Person signed a lease for a house to welcome women residents. The house can support up to seven women. “I prefer an intimate setting for the women,” Person says of having a comfortable, home-like atmosphere. The proceeds of the fashion show will go toward the outreach work of Exodus 3 Ministries and the maintenance of the home. “Bottom line is we want to keep the doors open, and [community] support will help,” she says.

Cantello, who also serves on the planning board of directors for Exodus 3 Ministries as treasurer and financial manager, says the event committee meets weekly to brainstorm their ideas for the fashion show. “We started [working on it] last year, so we're excited about it,” Cantello says. There will be musical performances by the a cappella gospel group, Five to Life, and soloist singer, Leigh Ann Tumino, co-founder of In My Father's Kitchen, an organization that provides meals and spiritual outreach to people in need. The event will run from 5 to 9 p.m. and will feature raffles, a buffet dinner, and vendor booths. “We're starting at 5 to give people time to shop at the vendor

Debra Person

IF YOU GO: What: Exodus 3 Ministries presents “Transformation” 2014 Spring Fashion Show When: 5 to 9 p.m., Friday, May 16 Where: Driver's Village Center Court, 5885 E. Circle Drive, Cicero Price: Admission is $65 per person. Tables of 10 are available for $600. Contact: 315-487-6894 or 315-876-2248 to reserve tickets

booths and look through the raffle items,” says Cantello. “We expect it to be a very exciting and fun evening for everyone.” —Vekonda Luangaphay

The Must-Do List

6 to 7:30 p.m.

Young Women’s Leader Panel, Baldwinsville

Today’s CNY Woman editor-in-chief Courtney Rae Kasper, Caeresa Richardson of Eaton Corporation, and Sandy Mullett from Empower Federal Credit Union, lead a discussion on what it means to be a young leader. discoverpls.com

5 to 8 p.m.

Everson night out, Syracuse

Enjoy fine craft beers by Empire Brewing Co. and Middle Ages Brewery, live music, and one-of-akind beer steins from local potters as you stroll the Everson Sculpture Court. everson.org

5 to 9 p.m.

You can’t fail Leadership, east Syracuse

Take part in The Art of Sistering: Using Our Collective Strengths for Personal and Professional Success, a leadership workshop lead by Gwen WebberMcLeod, of Gwen, Inc., at the DoubleTree Hotel; $60. gweninc.com

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Exodus 3 Ministries is a faith-based nonprofit organization that strives to inspire women to have faith and hope in their lives. The organization provides a home setting for women who lack basic living necessities, such as furniture, kitchen supplies, and access to laundry facilities. Person’s goal is to help women positively transform their lives.

“They will get a chance to view the latest styles of fashion from casual to business to evening wear for men and women from Saks,” says Vivian Cantello, a member of the fashion show event committee. She says the fashion show will also feature child models showcasing clothing from Curtain Climbers, a children's-only consignment shop in Syracuse.

“Transformation is our theme because the butterfly is our logo, and the journey of Exodus 3 Ministries is a transformation in itself,” says Debra Person, founder and executive director of Exodus 3 Ministries.

The 2014 Spring Fashion Show will feature models from the AMS Models & Talent agency on the runway showcasing trendy clothes from Saks Fifth Avenue OFF Fifth. Ann Marie Stonecypher, the owner of AMS Models & Talent agency, will be the emcee.

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On May 16, the center court of Driver's Village will be transformed into a fashion mecca as the Exodus 3 Ministries hosts their fourth annual fashion show.

Vogue Hair Design

BLOWOUT 2014: Circus freak

Photography by Karen Guyder Felter, Leigha Hurley, and Tamaralee Shutt

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It was a kaleidoscope of colors, sequins, and mile-high hair styles as salons from across the Syracuse area competed at the 2014 “Circus Freak”-themed blowout fantasy hair show held on April 13 at the Landmark Theatre. Vogue Hair Design took home the coveted Blowout trophy and more than $4,000 was raised for the Q Center in Syracuse. Vendors included Anne’s Savory Delights, Tom’s Bootleg BBQ, Creations By Nella, ItWorks, Michelle DaRin, and 83 & Company. Sponsors included Continental School of Beauty, Rain Lounge, Paparazzi Day Spa, Landmark Theatre, Today’s CNY Woman, and Movin 100.

What’s on Laura’s BookShelf? Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey: The Lost Legacy of Highclere Castle By Lady Carnarvon Lady Carnarvon, author and the real life resident of Highclere Castle in the international drama series, Downton Abbey, pens a captivating story with scenes that transport the reader. Set in a place and time from history where a web of family dynamics enchants us and makes this masterpiece an instant classic—a page-turning read, indeed. ladycarnarvon.com The Mother of All Field Trips: Homeschooling two kids in 14 countries By Jeannie Ralston I had the pleasure of spending personal time with Jeannie Ralston in San Miguel, Mexico, and have tremendous admiration for her writing ability as a journalist and author. Her ability to bring the reader along as she journeys through varying landscapes and cultures is aweinspiring. In this notable story, Ralston spins a masterful tale about her family, their experiences, and adventures. A must read. jeannieralston.com

Homegrown reads: Sharing My Stones by Marianne Angelillo, and Beyond the Underground: Aunt Harriet, Moses of Her People by Joyce Stokes Jones and Michele Jones Galvin Laura Ponticello is the founder of Laura’s List: Books for Women and author of Live the Life of Your Dreams: 33 Tips for Inspired Living. Laura’s List is dedicated to cultivating connections and harnessing the power of stories to empower women using books as conversation pieces. If you have a story you’d like to share, connect at laurasbooklist.com, lauraslist, and goodreads.com/laurasbooklist.

Christine Arietano Krahling recommends Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson, and My Beloved World by Sonia Sotomayor.

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What are CNY women reading? Share with Laura at LaurasListBooksForWomen!

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These titles can be found at independent book retailers in Central New York, Barnes & Noble, and through online resellers.

Morgan and Joshua Rowe say “I do” By Joanne Settel Moore

Photo by Studio Black Photography studioblackstl.com

here is a painted sign that hangs on the wall in the family room of newlyweds Morgan and Joshua Rowe’s home that reads: “The secret to having it all is believing that you do.” For Morgan and Josh, these words are more than just wall art—they describe the couple’s approach to life, especially during a time when having it all seemed just about unimaginable, a time that included thyroid cancer for Morgan, the death of Josh’s great-grandmother and unemployment for both. But despite these unexpected hardships, Morgan and Josh persevered, continuing to reach out to help others while certain dreams were put on hold. The most important being Morgan’s dream of marrying her best friend.

where the ceremony took place. Morgan wore an elegant strapless white gown embellished with delicate embroidery, a dress she loved from the moment she saw it. “There were five dresses I had to choose from. When I looked at those five, I didn’t even try any on,” she says. “I just knew that dress was right.” When Josh saw Morgan walk down the aisle, he summed his feelings up in three heartfelt words: “It was amazing.” From there, the wedding celebration continued at Gentile’s Restaurant, which donated the lavish reception. Floral centerpieces of teal, blue, and pink echoed the thyroid cancer wristbands that each guest received. The three tier vanilla cake with Bavarian cream filling had decorative scrolls in the same color scheme.

But that all changed on March 23, 2014, when Morgan and Josh said “I do” as the winning couple in a giveaway wedding contest created by Chef Kevin Gentile of Gentile’s Eclectic Italian Restaurant in Syracuse with help from Today’s CNY Woman magazine. The event was sponsored by more than a dozen local businesses.

Every wedding is filled with memorable moments. For Morgan and Josh, one moment that will forever stand out involved a very special wedding gift—not for them, but from them. Morgan’s brother, Matt Yoder, and his wife, Jamie, were guests at the wedding. Both serve in the Navy and never had a traditional wedding. After Morgan and Josh shared their first dance, they surprised Matt and Jamie with their own first dance. “They really enjoyed that,” says Morgan.

Snow flurries and temperatures in the 20s couldn’t keep the more than 75 friends and family from King of Kings Lutheran church in Liverpool Photo by Rhys Harper rhysharperstudios.com

Photo by Rhys Harper rhysharperstudios.com

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then certainly two of those words must be “thank you.” Thank you to Morgan and Josh from all of us at Today's CNY Woman magazine and Gentile's Eclectic Italian Restaurant for allowing us to help make your dream wedding come true. There are so many incredible people who donated their time and professional services to this very special couple. From the wedding gown and flowers, to the cake, photography, music and honeymoon plans, to the tireless efforts of publicist Jean Tringale and others—this day could not have happened without each and every one of them. We are awed by their generosity and goodwill.

Just back from a honeymoon touring Vermont, Morgan took a moment to reflect on her wedding day and the people who made it all possible. At first, she is overwhelmed at how to even begin thanking everyone. But then she finds the words, which, like Morgan, are all about everyone else. “I don’t even know how to start thanking them all,” she says. “Everything that Gentile’s Restaurant did for us, everything down to the last vendor... the selflessness that all of them expressed to us was amazing.”

Photo by Studio Black Photography studioblackstl.com

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Benefiting:

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Morgan and Josh, it was our pleasure.

watch the wedding! To see the video of Morgan and

Josh’s wedding and to hear about the amazing contribu13 tions from each vendor, visit todayscnywoman.com.

in the know: STOREFRONT

Kathleen Zapata (left) and Geraldean Lantier

Trends for Tots

New and noteworthy boutique offers motherapproved gear By Nicole Chenet Photography by Alice G. Patterson

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The picturesque village of Skaneateles is known for great shopping, excellent restaurants, and beautiful views. Now, with the recent opening of Pride + Joy, Skaneateles is the place for parents to find the necessities for their new additions.

Located at 22 Jordan Street—the previous home to the Chamber of Commerce and Pomodoro Too—Pride + Joy offers “something for everyone,” from expectant parents to grandparents to those simply looking for a meaningful gift, says Geraldean Lantier, a business partner at Pride + Joy and also owner of the women’s store, Skaneateles 300. Pride + Joy has a “boutique atmosphere with gift-y items,” Lantier says, but the shop also stocks strollers, car seats, bedding, feeding items, skincare, and

other essentials. Shoppers will also discover a beautiful selection of clothing and shoes for both boys and girls. Pride + Joy, says owner Kathleen Zapata, was born after she and Lantier—the moms of six children between them—realized that the area truly needed a place where parents could shop for the basics with confidence, and without feeling overwhelmed. “We’ve taken the guesswork out of shopping for a new baby,” Zapata says. “Everything we offer, we’ve tested ourselves.” She and Lantier travel to events like the ABC Kids Expo in Las Vegas to see the latest baby and kid gear. “We collaborate on everything,” says Zapata “We make sure we are on the same page with all decisions.” Their unwritten rule is to only carry items that they would purchase for their own children. Perhaps the offering they’re most proud of is the selection of strollers. “That’s what really sets us apart,” Zapata says. A stroller, she believes, is “the most important investment,” and it was essential that customers be able to try out

a stroller in the store before purchasing it. A stroller isn’t something you want to purchase online without trying first, according to Zapata. Shoppers have the opportunity to do just that—the new 2,000-square-foot store was designed to allow shoppers to take a realistic test drive. In addition to carefully curated necessities and gifts, Pride + Joy offers a variety of events, from a weekly art class and story time to CPR classes, face painting, and eventually, a stroller fitness class. Expectant parents can also create a custom registry both in-store and online, a service that both Lantier and Zapata say gives shoppers an alternative to registering at big-box stores. The two shop owners also believe in giving back and often participate in special events like Jam for Jenna, held on April 26 in honor of Jenna Hinman, the Fort Drum mom who is battling life-threatening cancer after giving birth to twin girls.

After walking through Pride + Joy’s sunlit, cheery interior, it’s clear that Lantier and Zapata put great care and thought into everything, right down to the logo: a lion and its cub, surrounded by classic scallop detailing and modern fonts. “It’s not your typical baby store logo,” Lantier says, noting that it reflects their commitment to offering both traditional and more contemporary items. n

“We Grow Our Own” Quality Bedding and Vegetable Plants - Geraniums Hanging Baskets - Premium Annuals- Perennials We Have Everything You Need to Make Your Garden a Success! Bagged Soil & Mulches • Seeds • Onion Sets Seed Potatoes • Jiffy Pots • Fertilizer • Lime Grass seed • Paver Sand • Gift Certificates

6905 Route 80 East, Tully (between Tully and Fabius) For store hours and to learn more about Pride + Joy, visit prideandjoyshop.com and prideandjoyskaneateles.

Event Calendar Story Time 10 a.m., Saturday, May 3 With special guest Tanja Babich

(315) 683-5532 neilcaseysfarmmarket.com

Featuring…

Made in the USA Candles, Locally Made Soaps, Food Products, New Trendy Fashion Jewelry, Scarves, Purses & More! Gifts Sets Made to Order in Your Favorite Vintage Pyrex!

Clark + Walker Photo Sessions Saturday, May 17 30-minute or one-hour sessions. By appointment only

Not your average antique store! 107 Fairgrounds Dr. • Manlius • 682-1602 Sun & Mon: Closed • Tues-Fri 10:30-5:30 • Sat 10:30-5

HABA Play Day 11 a.m., Saturday, May 10 A day of fun with locally made HABA toys

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Mr. Chad’s Music Class 10 a.m., Wednesday, May 7 Offered every Wednesday

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Everyday Art 9:30 a.m., Monday, May 5 Taught by Nancy Rynciewicz Offered every Monday

Meet Natalie Musolino by J o e ly l i v e P h otogra p h y by N i c o l e R i c e

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Tell us about a local Inspiring Teen!

From racing a snowmobile in the winter to racing a stock car during the summer, there is never a boring weekend for this 10 year old from Bridgeport, N.Y. While her father races in the adult National Hot Rod Association dragster series, Natalie, a fourth-grade student at St. Margaret’s School, races her dragster in the NHRA junior league, reaching speeds of more than 70 miles per hour.

CNY I.T. Girls: What’s your most memorable race and was it on a snowmobile or in your dragster? NATALIE Musolino: The Mason Dixon Dragway Nationals in Hagerstown, Md., was my most memorable race, even though I redlighted twice, which means I jumped the light. CNYIG: What does it feel like when you’re racing? NM: I feel excited and speedy!

J o e ly l i v e facebook.com/CNYITgirls twitter.com/CNYITgirls youtube.com/CNYITgirls CNYITgirls@gmail.com

CNYIG: What is the fastest you have ever gone in your race car and snowmobile? NM: In my race car my highest speed was 76 miles per hour and on my snowmobile 73 miles per hour. CNYIG: How does it feel to watch your dad race?

NM: I sometimes feel afraid when my dad goes so fast at about 200 miles per hour, but he has been racing since before I was born. I counted the years until I could race. CNYIG: Is there anything you do right before a race that gets you ready or pumped up? NM: I pray to get me ready and I usually race on Sundays. I am Catholic. CNYIG: Is there a reason your stock car is green? NM: The color green sticks out and my dad goes out in the garage every night with our dog, Stella, and works really hard on our cars to make them look and run good. CNYIG: Is there anything about racing that scares you? NM: The only thing that scares me is crashing. I’ve been racing snowmobile since I was 4 years old and racing stock cars since I was 8 years old, so hopefully that won’t happen. I like going fast! n To see Natalie Musolino racing, visit YouTube.com/td1332 or check out the local track in Cicero where she races at estadrags.com.

Women TIES

Uptown Style

in Downtown Syracuse Michalle Harmon of Sasha’s Salon and Spa has been beautifying Salt City residents for 30 years

A: Being current and keeping up with the latest styles. We offer the newest color techniques, like balayage, and the latest in chic cuts, like the stunning blunt bob worn by Victoria’s Secret model Karlie Kloss. Plus, I love what I do. My clients are really special to me and I love making them feel beautiful. I feel it’s a privilege to get to know them as they sit in my chair and open up to me about their lives.

A: It’s so exciting to see people coming in and not leaving on Friday! There is a lot of really beautiful living space going up all around us. The neighborhoods, eateries, festivals, and farmers markets are all fantastic—it feels like more of a community. I wouldn’t move to the suburbs even if I were given free rent! Q: Do you have any plans down the road for your salon? A: I’m actually quite thrilled with our most recent expansion—we went from 900 to 2,000 square feet seven years ago when we moved from Armory to Clinton Square. And our clients have free parking. Q: What is your golden piece of advice for other women entrepreneurs?

Q: Sasha Salon is referred to as “a space of conscience.” What does this entail?

A: Stay on top of income, reinvest in your company, and be flexible to recreate yourself, but be true to what you love to do. Most importantly, embrace your mistakes—they’re not failures, just lessons to learn from. n

A: We promote a responsible way of living by using sustainable, organic products, and high quality lines like Goldwell that are paraben- and sulfatefree. We want the very best for our clients and environment.

Michalle Harmon is this month’s Women TIES Inspirational Entrepreneur. Sasha Salon and Spa is located at 206 W. Water St. in Syracuse. To learn more, visit sashainthesquare.com or call 315-471-1612.

Women ties may events “Lessons From A Stalled Business and a National Television Appearance” with Bonni Stacconi Phelps, founder of Baked Euphoria Cakes and Pastries When: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday, May 6 Where: The Maplewood Inn, Liverpool Cost: $29 “Reach Your Ideal Customers with Dynamic Content Creation” with Danielle Klahr, owner of Klahr Writing When: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday, May 8 Where: The Century House, Latham Cost: $29 to register: Contact Women TIES President Tracy Higginbotham at 315-708-4288, info@womenties.com or visit womenties.com. Follow Women TIES at womenties and “like” WomenTIES. Together Inspiring Entrepreneurial Success©

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Q: What has been key to your success as a long-time entrepreneur?

Q: As a 30-year resident of downtown Syracuse, what is your perspective of its recent upswing?

With more than a quarter century of success under her apron, Michalle Harmon, owner of Sasha Salon and Spa, is an inspiration to women entrepreneurs in the beauty industry and beyond. The creative hairstylist set out to open a serene environment promoting “everyday well-being” in downtown Syracuse in her mid-twenties, naming it after her beloved Bulgarian grandmother. Her dream salon has been a staple in the Salt City ever since.

Women TIES’ Tracy Higginbotham with Bonni Stacconi Phelps

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By Nell Killoran

Lights, Camera, Action: Carrie Lazarus on set at the NewsChannel 9 studio on Bridge Street in Syracuse testing her lines for the evening newscast

Carrie Lazarus The NewsChannel 9 icon on racing for the cure, why she doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t regret staying in Syracuse, and the work-life balance myth By Courtney Rae Kasper Photography by Alice G. Patterson

Lazarus and her coanchor of 27 years Rod Wood, who she says is the team’s morale leader and resident comedian.

Lazarus’ mother was 45 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was the early 1970s and the recommended treatment was almost always a mastectomy. But after seeing an article about an experimental treatment for breast cancer in The New York Times, Lazarus says her mother, who was a very strong advocate for her own healthcare decisions, volunteered for the new treatment—lumpectomy with radiation. “My mother remembered waking up in the recovery room and she could hear an argument going on on the other side of the privacy curtain,” says Lazarus. “The nurse was yelling at the doctor,

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“My parents tried to keep it from me,” says Lazarus, who was 13 years old when her mother was diagnosed. “They didn’t use the ‘C’ word back then, and it wasn’t until I was older that I looked back and realized what had happened.”

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It took a while for Carrie Lazarus to put together her mother’s “simple operation” and the words “breast cancer.”

saying ‘do you know that woman has a young daughter? How could you make her a guinea pig?’ The idea that you could save the breast and take out the cancer and radiate was so new that the nurse thought the doctor was letting my mother take an unacceptable risk because she had a child. Now it’s the standard care for many women.”

nel 9 anchor will act as the Honorary Chair for the 2014 Komen CNY’s 20th Anniversary Race for the Cure. “It’s a huge honor,” says Lazarus. “I’ve never attended a more emotional event. When the survivors come out in that wave of

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Although radiation was more brutal in the 70s, it turned out to be the right treatment for Lazarus’ mother who remained cancer free for the rest of her life. “It was really a lonely burden for women to face something like breast cancer during that time because it was a hushed subject,” says Lazarus, adding that her mother was always reserved about being a survivor.

Lazarus says she is vigilant about staying up-to-date on her exams and recalls how it influenced her career early on. “I was the health reporter as a young adult, so I remember doing projects at the station like Buddy Check 9 where you would have a buddy and every month you would call her to remind each other to have a breast self exam,” says Lazarus. “Every month we would do a story about a survivor or new treatment. It seems old-fashioned now but that was before you could just text your BFF.” And although Lazarus admits that her original goal was to replace Jane Pauley on NBC’s Today Show (she even turned down a major opportunity in Denver when Channel 9 came calling), it’s through having such opportunities to create programs like her “Family Healthcast” show that solidifies why she’s never been regretful about making her career in Syracuse for nearly 30 years. “The Healthcast has helped me give something back to the community,” says Lazarus, adding that she takes pride in providing viewers with trusted information to improve their lives.

But one local event that the mother and daughter celebrated her survivor status together was the annual Komen of Central New York’s Race for the Cure. Lazarus and her mother were supporters of the event since the inaugural 1994 race at ShoppingTown Mall. “She was happy to see this movement,” Lazarus says of her mother who passed away at age 85 last November. “It was a feeling that this community was speaking out about breast cancer and that it was OK to talk about it and support women and wear pink to honor loved ones. Growing up I didn’t know any other children around whose moms had breast cancer, so when I showed up at ShoppingTown, there were people from all generations and it really hit home.”

pink and they sing… everybody’s crying. But I’m disappointed. I remember saying at the first one, ‘maybe there’ll come a day when we can just race and we wont’ have to race for a cure’—but we still are.”

This month, the veteran NewsChan-

Given her mother’s health history,

At present she is hard at work on her latest project, The Carrie Lazarus Fund for Extraordinary Talent. Inspired by her newest show “Extraordinary People and Places of Central New York” and an idea from her husband of nine years Dave Birchenough, the fund aims to help budding local performing artists take lessons in their given disciplines—and she’s raised more than $80,000 just in the first year. Lazarus credits her mother as her number one influence of how to manage a work-life balance, as Blanche was

Lazarus and her husband Dave Birchenough in their Skaneateles home. The couple married in the 1840s boat house seen in the distance.

Lazarus’ positive outlook is not just confined to the studio. It touches upon everything she does and is just one of the many reasons why the Susan G. Komen CNY chose her as their 2014 Race for the Cure Honorary Chair. “My involvement has come full circle since the first event,” says Lazarus. “And a lot of advancements have been made in breast cancer care, but we’re still looking for the cure. I think we’ll get there as we realize that more targeted treatment for women as individuals is necessary.” If anyone can help make it happen, it’s Lazarus. n

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“At any given moment, it’s not a perfect balance,” says Lazarus. “My generation was part of the first where many women worked, but my mother always worked—she was an oddity at the time. She set the example for me to find something that I loved waking up to everyday. I’ve set a good example for my daughters to find what they love because you have to have something that’s yours and something that you can be proud of and work hard at. Nobody has it perfect, and there’s no such thing

as perfectly balanced. It’s just doing the best that I can and it’s part of enjoying life, so I can come into the studio with a smile on my face and it’s real.”

”

one of few women of her generation who juggled a career with motherhood. (Blanche made her profession as a fashion coordinator for a menswear company in Manhattan.) Lazarus hopes that she’s passed this down to her own daughters, Emily, 24, and Dani, 21.

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“

It’s a huge honor. I’ve never attended a more emotional event. When the survivors come out in that wave of pink and they sing… everybody’s crying.

Join Us!

CNY Woman’s Race for the Cure Team

10 things you don’t know about Carrie Lazarus Fitness routine: yoga, Pilates, walking Go-to snack: Lazarus treats herself to a cup of Chobani yogurt with fresh fruit right before her evening newscast.

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Favorite boutique: Skaneateles 300

Hair care: Lazarus swears by Industry Salon’s Amanda Reule who’s been styling her “thick and curly” tresses for as long as she can remember. In the kitchen: Lazarus and her husband love cooking together, mostly something light like shrimp on the grill or grilled romaine lettuce for salads, or summer wine and cheese on the boat. Travel spot: The British Virgin Islands where the couple shared their first trip together. Favorite color: cheery yellow

Her obsessions: Family photographs and Veranda magazine Outdoor love: When she’s not skiing, playing golf with her husband, or boating on Skaneateles Lake, Lazarus has a penchant for the botanical and enjoys caring for her lavender, hydrangeas, peonies, and roses. Tuned in: Lazarus admits that she and her husband are currently watching “Homeland,” “House of Cards,” and “True Detective,” and she also loves “Dancing with the Stars.” “He always guesses right!” Lazarus says about her husband’s ability to score the contestants. Celebrity moment: “I interviewed Anne Burrell from The Food Network a few weeks ago and she said, ‘oh, I remember when you had French braids when you first started out. I had them, too!’” says Lazarus.

Today’s CNY Woman, a division of the Scotsman Media Group, is a proud media supporter of the 20th Anniversary 2014 Komen CNY Race for the Cure. We will be there at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, at the New York State Fairgrounds and Expo Center with our CNY Woman team! The event is one of the region’s largest and most successful fundraising and education efforts for breast cancer, drawing in nearly 9,000 participants annually and overall investing $5.5 million into breast health care. If you’d like to donate to or join our Race for the Cure team, visit komencny.org and register under the team name “CNY Woman.” (The entry fee is $30.) We hope to see you all there as we stand together to find a cure. For more information about the national Susan G. Komen organization, visit komen.org.

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Jill Jorolemonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daughter, Alison, and her husband, Chris, at their Weedsport home

Remembering

Jill Jorolemon’s family marks 10 years with Race for the Cure. By Ashley M. Casey

Photography by Amelia Beamish

“It’s kind of the epitome of small-town living: when you go through something like that, it’s almost like you have a big team behind you,” Chris says. The next school year came, and Jill began to feel “just not right.”

“I’m sure the reason why she didn’t pass away on Christmas Day when she was so sick was simply out of her determination and stubbornness that she didn’t want to ruin Christmas for everybody,” recalls Jill’s husband, Chris Jorolemon.

“The Susan Komen foundation is an organization that she jumped into feet first and supported 100 percent. The Race for the Cure was her way to try to make people aware of breast cancer and its effects on families and [she] definitely was active in raising money for the cure,” Chris says. “We continued that tradition on after Jill passed away. We still form the team every spring and raise money and do it in her honor.” This year, Jorolemon’s Crew boasts 35 to 40 members. Their goal is to raise $5,000 in memory of Jill. Last year, they raised almost $8,000.

“She thought she’d pulled a muscle in her chest moving furniture in the classroom. It didn’t go away after a few days, so we went back to her oncologist,” he says. “The cancer had spread to her liver and she had spots … on her sternum.” Jill first learned of Komen CNY shortly before the 2004 Race for the Cure when she saw a flyer for the race outside her oncologist’s office, a building which Komen CNY shares. The Jorolemons stopped in to learn more about the organization and its fundraising, and Jill hit the ground running. “Just like everything in life, once she got behind something she was behind it 100 percent, and she was driven,” Chris says of his late wife. “The last year that Jill was alive, she personally raised about $20,000.” Jill’s devotion to Komen led them to name an award after her in 2007. The Jill Jorolemon Legacy of Commitment Award is awarded to someone who dedicates themselves to fundraising, events, and volunteering for Komen CNY. Jill’s struggle with cancer began in late 2003, when a lump in her breast turned

Eventually, doctors found there was little more they could do for Jill’s cancer. She enrolled in clinical trials at Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Despite the grim prognosis, Jill maintained a fiercely positive attitude. “If she went to an appointment and they gave her 99 percent bad news and one percent good, then she focused on the one percent good,” Chris says. “She always took the small possibilities, the small positives, and that’s what she would focus her attention on.” Through the hardest days, Ali kept her mother going. Jill compiled photo albums and spent every possible moment with her daughter. “When you’re not feeling well and you’re not feeling like getting out of bed, when you have an infant daughter, you don’t

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Although Jill has been gone for nearly eight years, her family is making sure her spirit and drive are not forgotten. This is the 10th year that Jill’s family has participated in the Susan G. Komen CNY Race for the Cure, a race that Jill first ran in 2004, pushing baby Alison in a stroller.

out to be more than just a clogged milk duct. After her mastectomy in December 2003, Jill began chemotherapy and radiation, working through much of her treatment. Chris’ and Jill’s already tight-knit families, friends, and employers rallied around her. Jill’s coworkers pooled their sick days when she had to take time off for treatment, and there was a neverending supply of volunteers for meals, transportation, and babysitting for Ali.

In 2003, the 28-year-old special education teacher from Weedsport was diagnosed with breast cancer just before the holidays. Despite her illness, Jill did her best to keep the focus on her daughter, Alison, and their loved ones—not on her cancer. Just three years after that initial diagnosis, on Dec. 26, 2006, Jill succumbed to the disease.

Jill

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Jill Jorolemon was determined not to ruin Christmas.

“It helped us to understand that if you can work through it that there’s still a lot of good left to live.” have a lot of choice,” Chris says. After Jill’s passing, he adopted the same attitude. Having the same network of family and friends who were there during Jill’s illness doesn’t hurt, either. “Some people would say, ‘Aw, it’s too bad that you have a daughter that’s 3 years old that you have to raise without a mom now,’ but that’s been a blessing for me as well because that … makes me get up and keep going on the days I didn’t feel like it,” he says. For Chris and Alison, life moves ever forward without Alison Jorolemon plays with her dog, Lincoln. Jill. Four years after Jill’s death, Chris reconnected with a high school classmate, Amy Barrigar. They’re engaged to be married. Ali is 11 now, and fills her calendar with dance, Girl Scouts, and volunteering at church. In addition to their annual participation in the Race for the Cure, the Jorolemons hold a garage sale every other year and donate the profit to Komen CNY.

There are a few silly stories, too. Chris says Jill purchased a wig, but was unsure about wearing it, so it sat on a wig stand for a few days. Ali, just a toddler, mistook it for one of their three ginger cats and chirped, “Hi, cat!” “Jill was like, ‘That’s it. I’m not wearing a wig. … It looks like a cat,” Chris laughs. From then on, Jill covered her head with scarves until her red hair slowly grew back in. (Ali shares that red mane of hair.) Chris says he takes solace in seeing the trial drugs Jill was prescribed are now being used to help other women with breast cancer. He hopes the story of her positive outlook touches others, too.

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Ali’s few memories of her mom are happy ones. She often accompanied her parents to Jill’s clinical trial appointments. “We always tried to find part of it that was ‘fun time,’” Chris says. She remembers having her photo taken with more than 80 painted ceramic cows in Boston’s “CowParade.” During a stay in New York, Chris pushed Ali and Jill around the city in a wheelchair in the rain, taking in all the sights.

“No matter how tough your day, there’s still positives there. A good attitude and determination can overcome a lot of adversity in life,” he says. “Unfortunately, in her case, it didn’t prove to be everything she needed to beat the disease, but it … helped us to understand that if you can work through it that there’s still a lot of good left to live.” n

Winning Warriors The Jill Jorolemon Legacy of Commitment Award was created in 2007 for people who dedicate their efforts to Komen CNY through volunteering, fundraising, and participating in other events. “They contacted me and asked if I wouldn’t mind if they named an award in her honor. … Obviously, as a family, we were thrilled to do that,” Chris Jorolemon says. “We attend the ceremony every year where they present that award and we try to meet the person that receives it in Jill’s name and have a conversation with them.” Livvy Kronhaus, Director of Education at Komen CNY, remembers when Jill walked into the office with just a quarter-inch of hair on her head. “I never saw her give up hope,” Livvy says of Jill’s three-year battle with cancer. “It was amazing—she came in smiling every single time.” Here is the list of past winners: Joan Cincotta 2007 Ginny Biesiada O’Neill 2008 2009 Elaine Jacobs 2011 Cynthia McKenzie 2012 Roberta Cometti Ann Marie Otis 2013 Read Cynthia McKenzie’s story on page 27. Cynthia says she was “shocked” to receive the award in 2011. “Every year, I see her parents at Komen events. They are wonderful, wonderful people,” she says of Jill’s family. “The award means commitment to the Race for the Cure, and commitment to finding a cure for this horrible disease. I was so honored to receive it.”

Never Give Up

Hope By Joanne Settel Moore

Photography by Amelia Beamish

For most women, hearing the words

â&#x20AC;&#x153;you have cancerâ&#x20AC;? is tough enough.

Imagine hearing that three times.

McKenzie with husband, Darryl, and daughter,Allison

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It was the summer of 2004 and Cynthia McKenzie was feeling invincible. The Baldwinsville resident had two beautiful children, a wonderful husband, and was quickly making a name for herself as a nurse in the field of clinical research. She felt healthy and happy. Life was, as she remembers, wonderful.

But in late August, McKenzie received a phone call that changed her life and marked the beginning of a journey that would include three different bouts with cancer and the start of a long relationship with the Central New York branch of the Komen Foundation. Her doctor called to say that biopsy results confirmed breast cancer. For McKenzie, the news came as a tremendous shock as both a recent mammogram and a ductagram had been negative. “The first word my doctor said was ‘unfortunately’. As soon as I heard that, I dropped the phone and just about passed out,” she says. As a professional in the medical field, McKenzie found being on the patient side of things to

be very difficult initially, “I was used to seeing all these patient charts and names,” she explains. “It is just so different when it’s yours,” Not one for self-pity, McKenzie allowed herself just a few hours to take it all in. “My children were 3 and 6 years old, and I was focusing on the worst,” she recalls. Her sister, Laura Orlando, came right over, with a bottle of wine and a shoulder to lean on. “I have the best family,” McKenzie says with a smile. With her husband, Darryl, and her sister sitting by her side, McKenzie faced the situation head on, beginning with an incredibly difficult phone call to their mother. Her mom took the news hard, McKenzie remembers, but quickly rallied to offer support. McKenzie also praises the unrelenting efforts of the team of outstanding doctors that aided in her recovery. “Breast cancer is not like it was even 10 years ago, “ she says. “There are treatments that are out there that are so unbeliev-

able. They just keep researching.” But she says women have to take that first step and get a mammogram. Despite her own mammogram that was negative, McKenzie firmly believes mammograms save lives. “Don’t be afraid to get one,” she says. “It could save your life.” She also credits the support of Komen CNY, a group that keeps hope alive. “You always have to think positive. Never give up hope,” McKenzie says. “You just say, ‘I can beat this. I’m going to beat this.”’ And beat it she did—until 2008, when the cancer metastasized to her liver. This time, the recovery was brutal. “Some people go through chemo and it’s no big deal,” McKenzie says with wonder. She wasn’t so lucky. For her, it was as if every possible chemo side effect insisted on making its presence known. She lost her fingernails and toenails, and her throat was filled with sores, making eating difficult. Remaining positive in the face of four hospitalizations just to deal with the side effects

was an understandable challenge. During that time, McKenzie read the book The Secret. “It saved my life,” she says. “It’s all about positive thinking.” Over and over again, she told herself the same message: “I’m going to be healthy, I’m going to live a long time, and I’m not going anywhere.” It was a start. McKenzie began to take charge of her life again. One of her first decisions came after her daughter lightly touched McKenzie’s head and came away with a ball of hair. That moment was when McKenzie decided to shave her head and buy a wig. Not wanting to call more attention to her situation, McKenzie found a wig that was very close to her natural hair color and texture. “I felt so much better,” she says, “just having hair on my head, even though it wasn’t mine.” That first wig, however, was short-lived, a casualty of standing too close to a hot oven. “It kind of melted,” McKenzie recalls with a laugh. Once again, McKenzie weathered the fight with cancer. She credits her doctors and an amazing army of friends, co-workers, and family who pulled together. A meal was delivered to her house every single day. “It was just incredible the support I had from everybody, even if they didn’t really know me. Just unbelievable,” McKenzie says, her voice still edged with awe. Just one year later, McKenzie’s doctor ordered a brain MRI, reassuring her that the test was simply a routine precautionary measure taken with patients who have had metastasis. McKenzie was therefore unprepared for the unsettling results—there were 14 to 16 lesions on her brain. She went through the all-too-familiar routine of radiation all over again.

Although test results are basically clean these days, McKenzie doesn’t consider herself cancer free. “I am still on Tamoxifen and Xeloda,” she says, “and probably will be for the rest of my life.” She still has some side effects from the medications, that “aren’t pretty,” but in general, she feels great and has a lot of energy. When McKenzie isn’t working as a nurse auditor for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, she is focusing her energy into fundraising efforts for Komen CNY. She first learned of the organization after her diagnosis when several friends from her church informed her that they were going to participate in the Race for the Cure in her honor. She decided to join them. “I was thinking it was going to be really small, you know, 100 people holding hands, walking in pink shirts,” she says. Reality set in when she arrived and saw the thousands of participants, including survivors, that were gathered there. It was an incredibly emotional experience and McKenzie vowed to return the next year with a team of her own. She kept her promise and created “McKenzie’s Matadors,” the name inspired by her reputation as a fighter. Her team has grown from 25 supporters in its first year to more than 80 last year, and has raised over $50,000 for Komen CNY. McKenzie currently holds the title as the top fundraiser for the race. Her team is ranked second. Time and time again, McKenzie has shown that challenges are only temporary setbacks. Whether it is battling cancer, or raising funds for cancer research, she is not one to let anything stand between her and her goals. Some might even call her invincible. n

Hair

Care

The first thing that you notice when you step into Mr. C’s Hairstyling Studio on Taft Road in North Syracuse, is the huge array of beautifully styled wigs. The second is the wall of thank you notes from the women who wear those wigs—women, who almost without exception, are undergoing cancer treatment. The American Cancer Society East Syracuse branch, often refers patients to Mr. C’s. For many, the loss of hair can be devastating. Hair stylists Jennifer Ferguson and her sister, Danice Magill, are committed to turning that dark moment into something positive. “We try to take the illness out of the equation,” Magill says. “We focus on laughter and share other women’s positive experiences and stories to encourage them.” It’s a formula that works. Time and time again, they see a transformation take place, a transformation that is only partly about the wig. “I think once the solution for the hair is reached, then these women feel a sense of relief and renewed strength and confidence,” Ferguson says. “They can turn their attention on the task of getting healthy, emotionally, mentally, and physically because all three of those things are so intertwined.” And it’s not just the clients who are changed. The brightly colored wall of cards is a daily reminder to this family- run business of the importance of living life to the fullest. “We get letters from people all the time, even from people whose loved ones have passed, telling us how we changed the way they lived the rest of their life,” says Magill. Ferguson agrees: “Cancer can touch any of us anytime. Those letters remind us about what we do and why it is so important.”

shop local: 13066

Brooklea Drive

Meet eight women-led businesses dotting this quaint Fayetteville area. By Olivia Bitetti, Ashley M. Casey, Courtney Rae Kasper, and Joanne S. Moore Photography by Amelia Beamish and Emily Jureller

Local love: Paola Kay often hosts fundraising events that help support local food banks. “It’s important to me that I give back and support as much as I can,” Lee says. Free advice: Lee says it is important to “acknowledge your passion, stay focused and work hard.” She adds, “I feel very fortunate because I followed my passion and my dream came true.” Wendy Lee, owner Paola Kay Gift Shop 105 Brooklea Drive PaolaKayGiftShop

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Her start: It’s been Wendy Lee’s dream for the past 20 years to have her own shop. An inveterate traveller, she has always kept a journal of unique products discovered during her trips. When it was time to open her own store, she turned to that journal to find many of the items that she now sells.

The name: Her store is named after a 1915 hand-crafted mahogany cabin cruiser boat that her great-grandfather bought and named for his wife, Paola Katherine. The ambience: Every nook and cranny in this light-filled store offers unique items artfully displayed with a generous touch of whimsy and color. Unique offerings: Many one-of-a-kind items ranging from hand blown glassware, to jewelry, books, linens, and more. There is also a great selection of gifts for men.

Up next: Lee looks forward to making her store better. “Not necessarily bigger,” she explains, “better—more interesting, keeping it fresh, and focusing on American-made.”

Boutique—named after Fernandez’s daughter—on Valentine’s Day in 2001. These days, it’s mainly Ilacqua who runs the store. The ambience: The soothing baby blue walls, white cubbies, and light baby powder scent of Chloe’s Closet brings shoppers back to their childhood nursery. Those cubbies are stocked with luxe onesies, blankets, books, toys, and a few trinkets for parents and grandparents, too. “Most people have a really good time when they come in,” Ilacqua says. “Grandparents—they have a ball shopping for their grandchildren.” Favorite product: Ilacqua is fond of the puppets she sells. “I think they make a wonderful gift for young or old because you can use your imagination,” she says. “The toys should be as fun for the adults as for children.” Free advice: Ilacqua says her mother’s lessons in patience have served her well in interacting with customers. Her own motherly advice? “Try to be a good listener.”

Kathy Ilacqua, owner Chloe’s Closet Baby Boutique 107 Brooklea Drive ChloesCloset Her start: When Kathy Ilacqua’s daughter, Kate Fernandez, was pregnant with her first child, the mother-daughter team found there was a need for unique, highend baby items. They filed their small business license for Chloe’s Closet Baby

Up next: As her loyal customers’ little ones have grown, Ilacqua has expanded the size range of her clothing stock, especially for girls. She says her granddaughter created a Facebook page for the boutique, and a website is in the cards as well. “I’m not as up on [technology] as my grandchildren, but a lot of my customers are, so I need to do better at that,” she says.

The ambience: Kousmanidis says Miracles Hair Studio prides itself on its “comfortable elegance.” The spacious salon boasts a sophisticated palette of earth tones with cushy leather furniture and modern art hanging throughout the building. Guests can relax with complimentary refreshments, and there is a private waiting area for children away from the salon floor. Success secret: “The salon would not be

Up next: Within the next year, residents of North Syracuse should keep their eyes out for the Edelmans’ new venture. “They could use a really cool, high-end salon,” Edelman says. The details aren’t final just yet, but Edelman says it will likely bear the “Miracles” name as well.

Michelle Watts, owner Olive on Brooklea, 205 Brooklea Drive oliveonbrooklea.com

The name: Watts was set to name her unique space Amphorae, an ancient type of container used for transporting olive oil. But, she opted to highlight the charming street that has always been the Fayetteville native’s favorite area of town that now houses her business. Top seller: With more than 40 premium olive oils (think: blood orange or wild mushroom sage) and balsamic vinegars (think: fig or pineapple) the Tuscan herb olive oil is the most popular, says Watts. “We carry oils from the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, and we rotate our selections based on the freshest harvest,” she says. “They all have very different taste characteristics just like fresh fruit crops.” Local love: “Tying in local people to my business is a real niche of mine,” says Watts. She sells local artwork and other artisan goods like honey. Watts commissioned an area potter to create her olive oil pots and plates, and Lune Chocolat crafts truffles with her products. She hopes to continue expanding this collaborative portion of her venture. Watts also often donates to regional events, but in the future she hopes to connect more strongly with one or two different charities and host events in her shop.

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Her start: A native of Texas, Kendalia Edelman has been a hairstylist for 33 years. In 2004, her husband, podiatrist Dr. Eric Edelman, wanted to purchase a salon space for her. The intended location was a former church in Manlius, so Edelman brainstormed heavenly names for the business. The Edelmans ended up buying a space on Brooklea Drive, but the “Miracles” name remained. It’s now a full-service salon and medical spa with 34 employees. “This is their baby,” manager Kim Kousmanidis says of the Edelmans’ salon.

The ambience: With plush chairs in the front room and sleek, inviting tasting stations in the main space, Watts designed her business to mimic the feeling of a warm, light-filled gathering spot.

Kendalia Edelman, owner (right), and Kim Kousmanidis, manager (left) Miracles Hair Studio 200 Brooklea Drive miracleshairstudio.com

Local love: Kousmanidis says the Miracles staff loves being one of several salons in “hairdresser alley,” as she jokingly calls Brooklea Drive. “They’ve been great to us,” she says of the Fayetteville community. During the holidays, the salon collects donations for people in need and encourages their clients to do the same. “We offered gift certificates for people who donated food,” Edelman says of their Christmas food drive. Miracles also volunteers at St. Baldrick’s hair-cutting events.

Her start: After hearing an interview of Tom Mueller, the author of Extra Virginity: The Sublime and Scandalous World of Olive Oil, the fire was lit, says foodie Michelle Watts, a former yoga instructor and breast cancer survivor. She began her research in May 2012 and signed a lease in August. “I saw a need for top quality olive oils that are fresh and have sound chemistry for optimum flavor and health benefits,” she says.

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what it is without every single person working here. There would be no Miracles if there were no great employees,” Edelman says of her staff.

back to the people who give to you,” Fleischman says. Up next: This year, Fleischman strives to begin the legacy-building stage of her career. “If I can step back and help [beauty school students and my stylists] learn what I know and carry on what I’m doing, that would be a cool legacy for me,” she says.

Lauri Fleischman, owner Fringe Salon, 207 Brooklea Drive fringesalon207.com Her start: “I always knew I was going to do hair,” says Lauri Fleischman, who has been a stylist for 33 years now. “My father is a barber and my cousin went to beauty school and I was her model when I was in seventh grade. I told my parents that I was going to do hair and I started cutting kids’ hair in school. I still love it.” Fleischman began her professional career after high school and in 1992 co-opened her first salon, Realities. She founded Fringe in 2011, and it was named a 2012 salon of the year honoree by Modern Salon Magazine.

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The ambience: Fleischman describes her Aveda hair and skincare salon as rustic chic. The warm and earthy space organically came together, she says. “We designed stations that were hidden and not cluttered. It was important for everything to look streamlined and sleek yet easily accessible for stylists,” she says. East Lake Designs’ Maggie Borio stepped in to add modern touches like the antler chandelier and light green styling chairs.

Free advice: “Stay happy and find positive every day in your life because that keeps you beautiful from inside out,” she says, adding that every woman also needs a really good blow dryer, brush, and smoothing serum. Local love: Fringe is often involved in client-supported events and others that are important to the salon like Blowout, an annual fantasy hair show that benefits ACR Health, and animal- and cancerrelated fundraisers. “It’s about giving

Debra Pascale, director of catering Pascale Bakehouse & Café, 210 Brooklea Drive pascalebakehouse.com Her start: Debra Pascale left New York City in 1983 to become marketing director of The Hotel Syracuse. She committed to one year in the Salt City. Shortly after, she met her future husband, Neal, and decided to stay. She has been working with the Pascale restaurants since 1992 and also oversees catering at Pascale Wine Bar & Restaurant, Pascale Italian Bistro & Catering at Drumlins, and Justin’s Tuscan Grill. The ambience: The aroma of coffee and freshly baked bread permeates this welcoming space. Racks of artisan breads line one wall and a large display cabinet offers a tantalizing array of pastries. The café side offers lunch and breakfast fare in a casual setting. Top seller: “Our Bete Noire [a flourless chocolate cake] has been our signature dessert since 1981,” Pascale says, adding that the café menu is also bringing in rave reviews. “People from all over the county come in and say, ‘We’ve heard about your homemade soups,’ and they want it.”

Local love: Pascale restaurants have a long history of giving back to the community. “We set a budget every year as to what we can give back, “ says Pascale. Additionally, the bakehouse strives to support local fundraising events. “Whether it’s contributing cookies or bread, we always try to accommodate them,” she says. Free advice: Running a business takes a big commitment, Pascale cautions, and a lot of work. But, she says, “it can be very exciting and very rewarding.” Her advice to entrepreneurs? “Don’t give up, go for it.” Up next: “We want to continue to see Pascale Bakehouse in Fayetteville thrive,” says Pascale. “We are also opening up another version of the bakehouse at Drumlins County Club. It’s really working at Fayetteville so we’re going to take the same model and do that at Drumlins for lunch.”

Danielle Marnell, owner, Neenee’s Boutique 204 W. Genesee Street neeneesboutique.com Her start: Fayetteville native Danielle Marnell opened the lavender-colored doors to her high-end women’s fashion boutique in September 2013. “I don’t want to sell your basic sweater. I try to go out of the comfort zone of this area’s idea of fashion, and so far it’s working,” Marnell says. The name: “Neenee is my nickname. I don’t know where my parents came up with that name, but it is one of the many nicknames that don’t make sense,” she says with a laugh. “It’s the one that I like the best.”

The ambience: Boasting more than 15 different lines of women’s fashions, Neenee’s carries everything from basic cotton asymmetrical tops to sequined cocktail dresses, as well as on-trend jewelry and accessories featured in bright and feminine displays. Success secret: Being honest with customers and helping them select clothing that they would look really great in, says Marnell. Free advice: “Go for it. If you love something enough and you are completely 100 percent passionate about whatever it is, do it. If you’re stuck and don’t know where to go, take a look at what you love to do, and put all of your time and energy into that,” she says. Local love: Marnell’s love of fashion and her hometown has led her to coordinate Fayetteville’s first-ever Fashion Weekend on May 2. The show will feature eight local shops, and all donations toward raffles will benefit the Fayetteville-Manlius food pantry. Up next: “I studied menswear in college, so I would love to open up a store for men in the next five to six years,” says Marnell.

fashions. “We wanted to bring something to Syracuse that wasn’t here; a more sophisticated, elevated level of women’s fashion,” says Albanese. “Fashion is an evolution, it’s always evolving. So, we have progressed to meet the needs of our customers and to draw in a bigger audience. That is what fashion is. It shouldn’t stay stagnant.” Unique offerings: “Us!” say the sisters in jest. They both agreed, though, that Rubbersole, a European sneaker line, is an exceptionally unique item that Ms. Fit carries. Trend tip: “It’s a great time to buy a floral frock,” says Albanese. “Get rid of the fitness clothes, and go out and dress up. See how good it will make you feel; you will project that.” Success secret: “It’s not just about selling a dress,” says Albanese. “We have fun, too, because one thing you learn about this business [is that] you can make a nice living, but you are never going to get wealthy. There has to be something more, and that is the joy of meeting people and creating [family-like] relationships with the customers.” Up next: “We are going to be here at least another 25 years,” Keehfus says with a laugh. n

The ambience: The spacious shop features vintageinspired décor with exposed brick walls and eclectic, modern fashions, shoes, and accessories from more than 20 different lines, including many European

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Their start: Celebrating 35 years of business in October, the Ms. Fit sisters Inez Albanese and Mary Keehfus spent their first four years with a storefront on the Syracuse University Hill, followed by eight years in Shoppingtown Mall. “Our mother had one of the first women’s clothing stores in Syracuse called Vannez Fashions. So, we were always around [the industry]. We grew up in that store,” says Keehfus.

At work...

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Inez Albanese and Mary Keehfus, co-owners Ms. Fit Clothing, 9 Limestone Plaza, Fayetteville MsFitClothing

At home...

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Home. Work. Life. Get it all together!

home & garden

Inside

Out

What’s your gardening

style profile?

By Ashley M. Casey

t o d ay s c n y w o m a n .c o m | M AY 2 0 14

“I can figure them out pretty quickly and give them something fun,” Chandler says of her customers. Based on what they wear, how they decorate their homes, and what they like, Chandler can eyeball her clients’ gardening personalities and choose plants and color schemes that fit their lifestyle and vision. Read on to find out whose style fits yours:

Traditional Tessie

Contemporary Claire

Eclectic Elisa

Personality Trait: Rough, wild, and up for anything Typical Look: Holey jeans with cool sunglasses

Personality Trait: Type-A urban professional Typical Look: Tailored suits and glasses

Tessie’s “plain Jane” staples—begonias, geraniums, and petunias—are right at home with Mom and apple pie. Red, white, and blue are Tessie’s chosen colors. Dark green, structured shrubs such as yew, boxwood, and holly surround her colonial home. Chandler says Tessie’s favorites “will never go out of style,” but new cultivars of old favorites go a long way to freshen things up. Wave petunias and ivy geraniums in coral or magenta can switch up Tessie’s garden.

Usually outdoors and always on the go, Claire is a remix of Tessie’s classic style. She is creative and loves to push boundaries. “[Claire is] taking older patterns and reinventing them with a different attitude,” Chandler says. Claire’s romantic garden vision is “wispy and pretty,” featuring roses, hydrangeas, ferns, and calibrachoa in shades of pink and purple. This busy lady may prefer more low-maintenance plants such as Wave petunias and lilies.

Elisa has no rules. She’s the artsy gardening expert who’s willing to experiment with bold colors and textures, mixing perennials, annuals, herbs, and vegetables in the same space. Elisa’s strong DIY sensibility incorporates pallets and “layering them into something fun,” Chandler says. Elisa’s patio is filled with dwarf blueberry and raspberry bushes, and she compensates for less attractive fruit and veggie plants by pairing them with geraniums in wild-colored containers.

Millie is driven and organized, which can be seen in her love of clean lines and minimalist aesthetic. She may not have time or space for a huge outdoor garden, but her love of order and structure shines through slow-growing hedges out front and lots of containers and houseplants. Millie prefers succulents such as hens-and-chicks, aloe, and cactus. She can spice up her buttoned-up style with a pop of color, like the wandering jew’s glossy flash of purple or the variegated leaves of coleus.

Personality Trait: Knows what she likes and sticks to it Typical Look: White jeans and nautical stripes

What does fashion have to do with flower beds? Everything, according to Christin Chandler, assistant manager of Dickman Farms in Auburn.

Personality Trait: Traditional with a twist Typical Look: Fun prints or cute sneakers

Modern Millie

No matter what your design profile is, Chandler says it’s important to nail down your goals before you set foot in the nursery. Otherwise, you’ll fill your cart with every little thing that catches your eye. “Truly understand what you want before you get there,” she says. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. “Know that there are people out there who are willing to help you. Feel free to ask questions,” Chandler says. n

Inspired?

First and foremost, have the proper running gear. Start with a high quality pair of running shoes. It is vitally important to find a shoe that not only is comfortable, but also offers the necessary support. Make sure there is a little extra length at the end of the shoe. Take them for a “test drive” in the store—walk, run, see how they feel. When selecting clothes to run in, runners should generally dress for weather that is 15 degrees warmer than the actual temperature. But don’t wear cotton. In running circles, “cotton is rotten.” Instead, look for a synthetic fiber with wicking material that will help moisture evaporate more quickly. Dress comfortably, but avoid clothing that will flap or ride up. The next step, Mitchell explains, is to build a foundation so beginning runners are not doing too much too

soon. That means incorporating walk recovery periods into the workouts. At No Boundaries, Mitchell starts with a lot more walking than running and gradually increases the running. “Walking is not failing,” Mitchell says, “It’s a tool that allows your muscles to recover.” By the same token, Mitchell advises runners to limit their workouts to three times a week with a day of rest between each workout. It’s important for runners to be aware of what they eat, Mitchell says. Avoid heavy foods before running. A light snack such as a banana or a granola bar, she advises, is a better choice. Breathing is also a big part of running and often one of new runners’ concerns. “You need to breathe more when you’re running,” Mitchell says, “because your body needs more oxygen.” She coaches runners on the proper way to do rhythmic breathing that coincides with their steps. “Shallow breathing isn’t good,” she says. “You really have to get that full belly breath.” There will be days, Mitchell warns, when finding the motivation to run will be a challenge. It’s something that all runners face and she offers some solutions. “Write down your goal, sign up for a race, give yourself something to work towards,” she advises. Even better, she says, is to run with a friend or group, someone who “is going to get you out the door on those days when you’re feeling like you don’t really want to.” In turn, she adds, “you may be motivating them.” n

May 17, 2014 Syracuse

Komen Race for the Cure 5K

Supports breast cancer awareness and education. komencny.org/ komen-race-for-the-cure/race-information

May 18, 2014 Syracuse

Charity for Children 5K

Supports families with children suffering with various diseases and disorders. runsignup.com/Race/NY/ Fayetteville/CharityForChildren

June 7, 2014 Syracuse

Paige’s Butterfly 5K

Supports pediatric cancer awareness and education. paigesbutterflyrun.org/registration

June 14, 2014 Syracuse

Joe LaGuardia Amyloidosis 5K

Supports Amyloidosis awareness and education. runsignup.com/Race/NY/Syracuse/ JoeLaGuardiaAmyloidosis5K

July 4, 2014 Marcellus

Teal There’s a Cure 5K Supports ovarian cancer awareness and education. runsignup.com/Race/NY/Marcellus/ TealTheresACure5K

August 16, 2014 Liverpool

Willow Bay 5K

Run and fitness walk for Women. getentered.com/register/?event=25944

August 24, 2014 Syracuse

Inner Harbor 5K

Benefits the Inner Wealth Initiative that seeks to enhance the mental health and wellness of children and families. runsignup.com/Race/NY/ Syracuse/6thAnnualInnerHarbor5K

t o d ay s c n y w o m a n .c o m

nyone can run. Really. All it takes is a little determination, some enthusiasm and a good pair of running shoes. Just ask Mallory Mitchell, Training Programs Coach at Fleet Feet Sports in Syracuse. Mitchell coaches “No Boundaries,” a 10-week training program for new runners. While the ultimate goal at the end of the program is to complete a 5K, Mitchell has seen many variations on how that is done. “Whether you are walking and running, or just going very slow, as long as you’re getting to that 5K, you’re accomplishing that goal,” she says, adding, “There is always time to get there.” Mitchell encourages everyone to run and offers some valuable advice for those just starting out.

By Joanne Settel Moore

A P R IL 2 0 1 4

Step into a new running routine.

Check out these upcoming 5Ks throughout CNY. Follow the links below to register for the races.

food for thought

Spring

Fling Celebrate the season with asparagus

One of the surest signs that spring has arrived in Central New York is the abundance of fresh asparagus, not only in the produce sections of grocery stores, but also on the menus at local restaurants. Chefs revere this delicate vegetable for its savory flavor and ability to complement so many other foods. Gregg Marsh, executive chef at bc restaurant in Syracuse’s Armory Square, is no exception. He often pairs asparagus with fish or steak, or gives it a starring role in pasta dishes like the one he created in the recipe below. Keep in mind that the asparagus season, like spring in Upstate New York, is all too fleeting. Don't wait to put this dish on your own menu.

Look for stalks that are firm and straight with tightly closed buds and no wrinkles in the stem.

—Joanne Settel Moore

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t o d ay s c n y w o m a n .c o m

Pasta with Asparagus - from Chef Gregg Marsh

1 pound asparagus 1 container cherry tomatoes, cut in half 1 leek 2 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced thin 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 pound farfalle pasta 4 cups vegetable stock 1 lemon, juiced and zested 1/4 cup white wine 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese 1. Trim 1 to 2 inches up from the bottom of the asparagus. Reserve for stock. Cut remaining asparagus into one-inch pieces. 2. Cut the root end off of the leek and split remaining leek in half lengthwise. Wash split leek well to remove any loose dirt. Cut thin rings using only the white part and reserve the green end for the stock. Place vegetable stock in a pot large enough to hold the stock, the green ends of the leek, and the bottom ends of the asparagus.

3. Bring stock to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Strain and save for pasta. 4. Place 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large sauté pan. Add the chopped leeks and asparagus and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Remove vegetables from pan and set aside for later use. Wipe the pan and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Place over medium heat and add uncooked pasta. 5. Toss to coat the pasta with oil and cook until pasta starts to toast, stirring occasionally. 6. Add 1 cup of the vegetable stock to the pasta and cook until it is almost dry before adding the next cup. Continue adding the stock in 1-cup increments until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. 7. Add white wine and simmer for a few minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Add lemon juice, zest, reserved vegetables, and tomatoes. Stir together and mix in cheese. Serve immediately.

bc Restaurant

27 W. Fayette St. Syracuse, NY 13202 315-701-0636 • bcrestaurant.com

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Do what you

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inspiration

No matter who you are, where you come from, what you’ve done, how you’ve struggled or even how old you are, you are still a perfect candidate to lead.

In the

Squeeze

Bravely navigating your path to leadership By Joleene Moody

On the road to great success and fulfillment is a rather narrow and unpredictable pathway. I call it “the squeeze,” and it takes an incredible amount of courage and persistence to make it through. It’s narrow, it’s dark, and—depending on the season—it’s thorny as all hell. There are nights when it rains hard. There are days when it’s so hot, we can’t breathe. Sometimes we think we see the clearing in the distance and are so grateful, it’s not even funny. But then a boulder falls from the sky and stops us dead in our tracks. We’re devastated and fall to our knees in anguish. Defeated, we curl up in a ball and cry. It’s done. We’re over. Our dreams are just too far away. It’s too painful. So we give up. We pick our lifeless body up, overwhelmed, and walk the other way. And that’s too bad, because we are so close—so very, very close—to the edge of our breakthrough. I’ve been that woman in complete collapse in front of the boulder, exhausted from the fight and defeated from the seemingly endless avalanche of self-imposed expectations. But I got up. I’m not going to let the squeeze keep me from being everything I was born to be. It took months of bleeding from thorns and floundering through in the dark before I unwillingly realized the pain was necessary. I hated the very thought, but there it was. Yes, there are bright spots and sunshiny days, but there is uncertainty and struggle, too. If I was going to make it to the other side, I had to be willing to handle the pain. Plain and simple. In the squeeze, there will always be struggle. Always. You must learn to be brave and navigate the narrow pathway with persistence. It is the only way to make it to the other side where the passion and the love and the life you desire patiently await you.

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Trust the path. I’m quite certain I’ve never driven on a road that hasn’t presented some sort of challenge, even if it was a wee one. But I’ve driven on it anyway, trusting that the Universal Navigation System up yonder was leading me in the right direction.

No one ever said the journey was without challenge, yet we become so fearful when challenge pops up that we want to give up and run away. Remove the idea that your journey will be painless and I promise you, things will change immediately. You will find the courage you’ve been looking for. You will overcome the things you thought impossible. And you will lead yourself and others to that genuine place of fulfillment that so many of us don’t believe exists. True story. n Joleene Moody is a speaker, author, and consultant to women entrepreneurs in Central New York. Learn more about her at joleenespeaks.com or find her at -- joleenemoody.

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t o d ay s c n y w o m a n .c o m

Komen CNY Race for the Cure May 17th, 2014 at the NYS Fairgrounds!

We IMAGE for a Cure! Join our team “Imaging for a Cure” on May 17th, 2014 or donate at www.komencny.org Race for the Cure®

To schedule your next appointment call 315-452-2555 www.StJosephsImaging.com