ISSUE 6 • FALL 2017
FASCINATING FEMALES VALERIE PLAME Former CIA Operative
BRITTANY WARNICK
A PASSION FOR BUSINESS, A LOVE FOR LIFE!
PHOTO CONTEST
WINNERS WORKING FROM HOME:
Tips for Success
Domestic Violence Survivor
DELLA MITCHELL Storytelling Fourth-Grader
PORTIA BRADY Fashion Designer of Theodora James Collection
STACY STYLEZ New York City DJ
THERESE ROCCO Former Assistant Police Chief
THE WARNING Rock & Roll Girl Band
EMMY AWARD WINNER:
DARIETH CHISOLM 50 Shades of Silence:
Recovering from Revenge Porn
COVER STORIES 50 Shades of Silence: An Interview with Darieth Chisolm
Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................................................................................. 9
LIVING The Power of a Pencil to Change a Life
Cori Wamsley..................................................................................................................... 13
Former CIA Operative Inspires the Next Generation
Jen Forsyth............................................................................................................................ 17
BUSINESS The Do’s & Don’ts of being a Successful Work-from-Home Mom
Rachel Weaver LaBar....................................................................................................... 21
5 Reasons Women Are Better Leaders
Kristie Knights...................................................................................................................... 25
Leadership Lesson Series—Part 3: Inner Driven Leadership
Diane Lazarowicz.............................................................................................................. 27
CULTURE From Rock Band, the Video Game, to the Real Thing: The Warning
Tarra Flores-Sloan.............................................................................................................. 33
What’s Your Soundtrack?
Jess Branas.......................................................................................................................... 37
Little Girl’s Mermaid Tale Makes a Big Splash
Cori Wamsley..................................................................................................................... 39
BOOK REVIEW: BEAUTIFUL
Dr. Shellie Hipsky............................................................................................................... 43
Passages and Prose Showcases Local Authors, Lets Them Shine
Cori Wamsley..................................................................................................................... 45
FALL 2017
CONTENTS
CONTENTS Continued FOOD & TRAVEL RESTAURANT REVIEW: Revel + Roost
Rachel Dayoub....................................................................... 51
Passport to Inspiration: Flight 93 National Memorial
HEALTH & WELLNESS Nemacolin Woodlands Spa
Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................................... 57
Photo: Mara Rago
Kim Adley................................................................................. 52
Inspired to Thrive After Adversity
Brittany Warnick......................................................................61
Getting Back to What You Love After Breast Cancer
Cori Wamsley......................................................................... 63
SPECIAL SECTION: PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHER FEATURE: Where the Wild Things Are Heather Tabacchi.................................................................. 67
Top Shots
Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................................... 73
FASHION & BEAUTY DESIGNER PROFILE: Portia Brady
Cori Wamsley......................................................................... 81
Style Week Pittsburgh 2017
Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................................... 86
Modern Makeup Maven
Cori Wamsley......................................................................... 89
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Darieth Chisolm of the 5o Shade of Silence movement and Dr. Shellie Hipsky the Editor-in-Chief of Inspiring Lives Magazine are teaming up to advocate against cyber stalking, revenge porn, and cyber bullying.
Society Spotlight................................................................ 90 Sustainable Chic at the Ecolution Fashion Show
Samantha Barna.................................................................... 93
Fall 2017: A Passport Through the Decades
Teri Lynn Woodruf.................................................................. 94
Just Jackie: Reflect with Elegance
Jackie Capatolla.................................................................... 97 COVER NOTES: Photographer: Mary Beth Kratsas Stylist: Julie Shields Makeup Artist and Hair: Carol and Lauren from Izzazu Clothes from: Larrimor’s
A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dear Readers, Images are powerful. A single photograph can tell a whole story. For years, I have been in front of the camera for magazine covers and modeling, usually for runway and print work to raise funds for charities. Since founding Inspiring Lives Magazine, I have been on set directing countless photo shoots with incredibly talented Photo: Ray Feather
photographers! Tapping into my team’s creative talents always takes my breath away and fuels my imagination. Bringing a concept to life or capturing the essence of a person, in a single image is a gift that my photographer friends have, and we love to showcase this talent with the magazine. For this issue, we set out to shoot Emmy Award winner Darieth Chisolm after shopping for the beautiful clothes at Larrimor’s with stylist Julie Shields. Our cover photographer Mary Beth Kratsas, knew Darieth’s image well since she had been on our televisions in Pittsburgh as the Channel 11 News anchor for over two decades. Throughout our shoot, we captured many beautiful portraits of Darieth, but as the director of the shoot, I knew we weren’t conveying the true essence of her 50 Shades of Silence project. As Darieth modeled in the drizzling rain in front of the red doors at the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning, I stopped the shoot. I said, “Wait! We have to tell your story to Mary Beth.” After Darieth explained what had happened to her and her new mission to help others experiencing cyber-bullying and revenge porn, Mary Beth uttered, “Wow. Thank you for trusting me with this, Darieth. We need to tell this story with the photograph.” Soon after, we captured the image of Darieth on the computer and phone surrounded by the blurred buzz of students. Also, we photographed her in front of the door reclaiming her own personal power. The pictures tell the story of surviving the struggles of what she called “cyber rape” in our powerful interview. This issue also honors gifted photographers in the Inspiring Lives Magazine Photography Contest. In this issue, we featured Fascinating Females and the Top Shots from photographers because, as I always say, “Inspiration is just a story away!” Hugs,
Dr. Shellie Hipsky FALL 2017
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. SHELLIE HIPSKY s.hipsky@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS KELLY FROST
CREATIVE DIRECTOR CHRISTINE M. SCOTT
k.frost@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
creative@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
LEAD STYLIST
CORI NICOLE SMITH WAMSLEY
TERI WOODRUFF
editorial@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
styling@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
CIRCULATION TEAM
INTERN
KENNETH ASKEW & ABIGAIL ASKEW
ANNA COMPTON
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES
Dr. Shellie Hipsky • Cori Wamsley • Jen Forsyth Rachel Weaver LaBar • Kristie Knights • Diane Lazarowicz Tarra Flores-Sloan • Jess Branas • Kim Adley Brittany Warnick • Samantha Barna • Teri Lynn Woodruff Jackie Capatolla
circulation@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
RACHEL DAYOUB
r.dayoub@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
CINDY ELLEK
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
c.ellek@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
MARCI RADCLIFFE
m.radcliffe@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS SAMANTHA BARNA
social@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
Mary Beth Kratsas • Karen Bartos • Clare Ascani Luis Villarreal • Dennis Rodriquez • Mitch Mitchell Debbie Bayer • Mario Epanyo • Annie O’Neill Ray Feather • Kim Adley • Angie Candell Brandon Gerard Bauer • Heather Tabacchi • Lucia Cintra Emmai Alaquiva • Lisa Seligman • James Ray Mary Lou Smith• Richard Parsakian • Ryan Smas
RACHEL DAYOUB
r.dayoub@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
MARCI RADCLIFFE
m.radcliffe@inspiringlivesmagazine.com
InspiringLivesMagazine.com Copyright © 2017 Inspiring Lives, LLC, Inspiring Lives International Publishing, Inc. P.O. Box 513, South Park, PA 15129, USA Contact Inspiring Lives International Publishing, Inc. at advertising@inspiringlivesmagazine.com. Reprints and back issues available on request. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in articles or books. Although every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this magazine is correct at the time of going to press, the authors have written from their own view point and therefore all information is personal opinion. The information is not shared in a professional capacity and does not constitute as professional advice for your own situation. Please consult an expert if that is what you require. The authors and publisher assume no liability to any party as a result of the contents of this magazine.
LIVING IN THIS SECTION: 50 Shades of Silence: An Interview with Darieth Chisolm
Dr. Shellie Hipsky.......................................................................... 9
The Power of a Pencil to Change a Life
Cori Wamsley............................................................................. 13
Former CIA Operative Inspires the Next Generation
Jen Forsyth.................................................................................... 17
“The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.” —Oprah Winfrey
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5O SHADES of SILENCE: An Interview with Darieth Chisolm By Dr. Shellie Hipsky • Photography by Mary Beth Kratsas • Hair and Makeup Izzuzu Salon and Spa • Styled by Julie Shields at Larrimor’s
Dr. Shellie: Darieth, you have been writing for Inspiring Lives Magazine for the past year. Please tell us a bit about your background. Chisolm: I have spent some 25 years in television. I anchored the news WPXI Channel 11 the NBC affiliate in Pittsburgh, I also host other TV and internet based programs. I'm an Emmy Award-winning television host, a life and business coach, visibility strategist, author, and speaker. Dr. Shellie: And you've been traveling around the world recently. Is that correct? Chisolm: I certainly have. Part of my work in coaching allows me to travel, (as long as I have my cell phone and my laptop). I enjoy travel. I do speaking engagements worldwide and have coaching clients that I meet with to facilitate retreats and live workshops, as well as one on one coaching. So it's really given me the best of both worlds. I get to work with very talented, inspiring entrepreneurs, and then, of course, I coach and teach and train in my travels, which I love. Dr. Shellie: Absolutely. We both share that love for traveling the world and helping people out. What has been your favorite part of your travel thus far? Chisolm: We have one life, right? So in that one life, as much as we can explore and discover new places, new people, new lifestyles, and travel really helps to sweeten this one life that we have. Four years ago, I retired from Channel 11. I sold my aerial fitness studio, Fullbody Fitness Club, and jumped headfirst into coaching. I started a video podcast and YouTube show called Hustle & Heart TV, wrote a book, Hustle! Why now is the time to Unleash your Passions and started speaking, so that really
launched a transition for myself. And over that period of time, I started working with some coaching clients, and that's when this travel really began to pick up. Two years ago, I went through a divorce and decided to leave the Pittsburgh area and live primarily in Florida and Jamaica and continue to work and travel from both of those locations. Dr. Shellie: What led you back to living predominantly in the United States? Chisolm: I was beginning to transition out of a very controlling relationship I was in, and I wanted to come back to the States for my coaching work. Dr. Shellie: You experienced something that no women should ever have to go through during that time in your life. Correct? Chisolm: Yes, I am what I call a recent survivor of “cyber-rape.” It is “cyber-stalking,” and what some people refer to as “revenge porn.” On January 1st of this year, I received a phone call from my ex boyfriend, who had threatened to kill me. On the phone, he said he would “stab me in the heart and shoot me in my head” if I didn't return to that relationship in Jamaica. Obviously this was terrifying, especially hearing that from someone that I had a relationship with. Someone who I trusted. Being threatened is a very scary feeling. I did my best to keep distance, stay away, reject any of his responses, and hope and pray that he would just go away and leave me alone. When I started ignoring him, he used a different weapon— his cell phone—and he started texting me nude pictures and videos that he had taken of me while I was asleep. I didn't know he had taken them, they were taken without my consent.
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Seeing those images left me so ashamed and so embarrassed. I was living in fear. And he continued to send threats trying to force me to continue a relationship that clearly I was not going to be involved with. But one of the things I discovered is that rejection breeds obsession. Eventually he created a public website for other people to see these pictures and videos and continued to threaten me. At that point, I knew I needed to take action. He was trying to silence me, and he continued his behavior because I was too afraid to speak out. I would never want anyone to see me this way. I was ashamed and embarrassed. Then, one of my girlfriends said to me in a prayer, “Darieth, you have nothing to be ashamed of. You did nothing wrong.” When I shared this with my 21-year-old son, he said, “Mom, you are the strongest person I know, He doesn't know who he is messing with!” This gave me strength and conviction to seek help and support and fight back. I am now aware that this man, who I once gave my heart to, is a sociopath and a narcissist. I'm working to have as much compassion as I can, because, clearly, he's a sick individual. But at the time, he made me experience a level of shame that left me feeling paralyzed. I know that many victims of abuse or assault are humiliated in this way. Then they shrink in power and silence. Yet, hearing people who truly love me say, “you have nothing to be ashamed of ” allowed me to give myself permission to seek the emotional help that I needed. But it also gave me strength to report it to police and to seek both civil and criminal charges. Dr. Shellie: So tell me about what you’re doing now to help victims of this type of crime. Chisolm: I am creating a multi-media project titled 50 Shades of Silence. It will be a documentary when complete, that not only tells my story, but the stories of other victims and survivors of crimes like this.
In the documentary we will explore this while giving voice and dignity to victims so they feel less ashamed about speaking out and getting help. As part of the multi media campaign, our website will provide resources and information about what to do, how to get content removed, and legal remedies. It’s designed to help victims, as well as for people to share their stories. There's something to be said about when you can share your story, and as you know and you've said Dr. Shellie, over and over again, “Inspiration is just a story away!” I know many survivors out there can offer words of comfort and relief and information to other people. I want to hear from them, so we are asking victims and survivors to share their stories in the documentary and anthology. We will also have a crowd-funding campaign through Patreon, so people can donate so we can properly shoot the documentary. As Patron’s they will go behind the scenes with us on all aspects of this journey. When this is complete, people can host screenings in their own communities and view the film, but then also invite lawmakers and victims and advocates to talk about this. That excites me the most about the project! It's really about lending voice to the voiceless and allowing people to speak up and speak out and supporting them in their mission to have dignity and respect through this. Dr. Shellie: What would you say to comfort a friend experiencing this form of cyber harassment? Chisolm: First I would recognize where they are, embrace them, and say, “I'm so sorry this is happening to you” and explain the steps they can take immediately. One of them would be that if they are experiencing a sense of shame or embarrassment or a feeling of isolation, they need support. They need to find a safe person like a family member or a counselor and safe place to talk about it.
“…you have nothing to be ashamed of. You did nothing wrong.” We also are going to look very closely at legislation. We do not have tough enough laws in place to protect victims of cybercrimes. Many states don't even have them, and many judges and law enforcement are ill equipped to understand what actions to take to protect the victims, the punishment is just not tough enough. Internet companies are not responding quickly or appropriately. When victims ask them to remove content that has been used to defame someone, they are quick to stand with the perpetrators of that content, claiming that it's Freedom of Speech. This renders the victims helpless to remove the content.
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Secondly, they must take legal action and find an attorney quickly who can help them through civil and criminal recourse. Finally, if the content is still out there, there are certain actions they can take to get it removed, because we know, it's by the nanosecond that things get shared, and that's really where most of that shame is. People think everybody is looking at them. That photo could go viral on the Internet, and it does leave one feeling like they're raped because their images are being shared by the nanosecond. You need to act quickly to either get the website shut down or the content removed as quickly as possible. So doing those three things very quickly is really important.
“We are desensitized. People have to understand that we still should be sensitive to others’ desires to maintain some level of privacy.”
Dr. Shellie: Excellent. Obviously, people who are on TV have been dealing with these revenge porn type of issues more and more. What would you say to someone that said, “They were asking for it because they're famous,” or “They were asking for it because they're always in the public eye”? Chisolm: Nobody asks for that. You and I being in front of audiences in our careers know that very well. Especially when you do the type of work that both you and I do. Serving others and inspiring others and encourage others, part of our mission, obviously, is to spread that message wide and far. But just because they have more exposure does not mean that they purposefully open themselves up to be a target. Now, unfortunately, we are open to more of it because we're more seen, but it doesn't necessarily mean that “we're asking for it.” Dr. Shellie: I just want to tell my readers and I'm sure you do, too, that the guilt is not on them. The blame is not on them. Why do you call it “cyber-rape”? Chisolm: Because in every sense of the word, that is what I felt like. Many other victims that I talked to who said that every time they knew that someone was viewing their content, (their naked photos or videos online), they had not given permission for that person to see them in that way or to share it.
Certainly, this is not to compare the seriousness of one being physically assaulted in rape, and, my heart goes out to victims who've had to experience that. The sense of being assaulted in that way and being stripped of one's sense of self and dignity and pride is a raping, in and of itself. It's like a stripping away without your permission. It’s a humiliating, isolating, and terrifying situation, which is the sense and the feeling and the emotion that one who's been raped may feel. Part of the problem is that when we see things, we don't tend to think that it is alarming to someone else because we're seeing it more often. We are desensitized. People have to understand that we still should be sensitive to others’ desires to maintain some level of privacy. Or when permission has not been given for someone to share certain content, we have to respect that and not share it. We need to have a sense of responsibility and decide, “I'm not going to participate in that.” My case is an extension of cyber bullying. Kids are literally holding weapons in their hands. They all have cell phones, and they're blasting things out without being sensitive to how that might hurt or impact some other child.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 98
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Students explore the Power Tool Homework Kits they received through the Adopt-A-School program.
Teachers search the Resource Center for free supplies for their classrooms.
THE POWER OF A PENCIL TO CHANGE A LIFE By Cori Wamsley • Photos provided by The Education Partnership
D
id you know that 60,000 students in the Pittsburgh area don’t have the basic school supplies they need? Teachers run out of copy paper in the first few months. Some kids don’t have anything to write with at home. It’s The Education Partnership’s mission to serve all those students, driven by their mantra “A pencil is a power tool.” I spoke with community partnership coordinator Laura Carlson, who told me about how this one organization strives to give all the teachers and students in southwestern Pennsylvania the tools they need to build a better future. “One in 3 kids go to school without the basic school supplies they need,” Carlson said. “So we go directly to the schools with the highest percentage of kids on the free and reduced lunch program and provide them with those supplies. It’s so simple, yet the students are blown away when we show up and help them.” A huge part of the non-profit’s ability to provide those supplies is their Adopt-A-School program, which allows them to partner with community businesses and gives companies a chance to rally around economically challenged schools that are right in their community. “Technology and energy companies are housed in the same communities that are experiencing a huge economic decline because the coal or steel industries are gone. When these companies work with us, they can select a school right down the
street from them and help those kids. We have become a conduit to true community building and responsibility.” An emerging trend across the United States is corporations helping schools in their own community. It’s ideal for many reasons. “When you give an employee permission to care, then it drives the company to greater success.” Businesses can make a difference easily, and it not only helps the students who need it most, but it also builds morale among employees and bolsters confidence in their company while building relationships in the community. Representatives from the business are able to talk to the students and inspire them to achieve when they are face-to-face, either handing out supplies or at arranged presentations in the schools. In some cases, the businesses are considering internships with the students. “The surest line between two hearts is the face-to-face contact, not just writing a check for school supplies. Seeing the need builds a bond.” And what about the impact on the students? The Education Partnership surveys the teachers frequently to make sure they have what they need for their classroom and determine what’s helping. The results are astounding. The teachers say that their students miss fewer days of school, behave better, and make better grades after they have the supplies they need. “When you show kids that you care about their future, they take pride in themselves. It helps them achieve academically.” And education helps break the cycle of poverty.
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The Power Tool Homework Kits provide necessities for students to learn and grow.
The Education Partnership also has a Resource Center where they store an assortment of supplies that a classroom or students may need. They have shoes, flower bulbs, and various other items that area businesses donate, all to help level the playing field. Teachers from partner schools have access to anything in the Center for free. Right now, the non-profit has 100 partner schools in six counties in southwestern Pennsylvania. Schools that have 70% or more of their students on the free or reduced lunch program can apply for assistance. The non-profit serves both public and private schools: the only requirement is student need. Roughly 42,000 students are being served now, but the goal is to reach 60,000 in the area. Carlson said that they have been able to serve so many already through the power of partnership and the kind hearts of those who want to make a difference in children’s lives. “Many companies feel a responsibility to support the community, but they aren’t sure how. The Education Partnership is a great opportunity for employee engagement that will make a huge impact, close to home.”
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The Resource Center reduces the burden on teachers to provide classroom supplies in underprivileged schools.
Laura Carlson and her children volunteered to create inspirational notecards to include in the supply kits for students.
“SPEAKING FOR 60,000 KIDS IN NEED IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PROFESSIONAL WORK I’VE EVER DONE.” It’s a funny story, but a light actually led Laura Carlson to her dream job with The Education Partnership. After years of being ill with lyme disease and staying home with her young children, Carlson knew she wanted to return to work, but she wasn’t sure where or how. Her previous career in aviation and real estate no longer resonated with her, and she longed to make a difference in the world. She wanted to discover her purpose. When she posted a chandelier on Facebook to sell last year, she received a strangely appropriate response. Justin Brown, the founder and executive director of The Education Partnership, asked if she would be willing to donate it to the non-profit and drop it off at their headquarters. She had never heard of the organization. Considering what had been weighing on her mind, the message gave her pause. She consented…on the condition that he would give her 30 minutes of his time to talk about the organization.
When she arrived, light in hand, Carlson got her talk, as well as a tour of the center. She expressed her desire to make a difference somewhere, and Brown told her, “You want to find a mission that will make you cry.” They stayed in touch after the exchange of the light, and a few months later, Carlson began volunteering. When the opportunity to be the community partnership coordinator arose this June, she jumped at it. Even her kids have become involved in her work. When they asked if they could have a lemonade stand this summer, Carlson agreed, as long as the money went to help The Education Partnership. In just 3 hours, they raised $150. Carlson said she isn’t afraid to do whatever it takes to help the kids The Education Partnership works with. “I’m so honored to do this work. I can be so bold talking about it because it’s a real need. And anyone can make a difference.”
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BUSINESS PROFILE
GINO CHIODO AND EMILIO CORNACCHIONE
G
ino Chiodo and Emilio Cornacchione spearhead Izzazu Salon, Spa, and Serata. The two met in the early 1990s at the former Joseph Horne Company Salon while “learning the ropes” under legendary Pittsburgh hairdresser Arnold Zegarelli, who once said of the dynamic duo, “They’re like two halves of a pair of scissors; when they come together, they cut really well.” The merging of Gino’s unparalleled connection to the uniqueness of each of his clients and Emilio’s superior styling flair have made them leaders within the city’s beauty industry. For nearly 20 years, the duo has inspired trends and motivated their stylists to utilize innovative cut and coloring techniques to reflect smart, seasonal looks. To further achieve their mission, Gino and Emilio developed their own hair care line, Izzazu Haircare. They have two beautiful locations serving the Pittsburgh area.
IZZAZU PITTSBURGH
izzazu.com izzazublowouts.com
301 FIFTH AVENUE | 412-325-1600
IZZAZU WEXFORD 100 VILLAGE CLUB DR | 724-933-0100
IZZAZU.COM
Downtown 301 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412. 325. 1600
Wexford 100 Village Club Drive Wexford, PA 15090 724. 933. 0100
FORMER CIA OPERATIVE INSPIRES THE NEXT GENERATION By Jen Forsyth
I
t’s one thing to have your entire world fall apart, but to have it played out in international media makes it even more difficult. This is what happened to former undercover CIA operative officer Valerie Plame. Falls, however, can teach lessons. They can also put the strongest among us in the places they are most needed, like helping to bolster arenas where women are sorely needed. Plame’s husband, former diplomat and career foreign service officer Joe Wilson, wrote an article published in the New York Times on July 6, 2003, about six months after the United States went to war in Iraq. The war was based on the pretense that former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction, a point reiterated by then-U.S. President George W. Bush in his State of the Union Address in January 2003. Wilson’s July 2003 article, however, based on his own visit to Africa in February 2002, debunked the idea that any weapons existed. One week later, the late columnist Robert Novak published his own article in The Washington Post, not only blasting Wilson and defending the Bush Administration, but also outing Wilson’s wife Plame as a CIA agent. Valerie Plame awoke one morning to photographers on her front lawn and her career as a covert CIA operative over. She worried not only for her own safety now that her identity had been outed so publicly and in such a political manner by Novak, but also for the safety of her family, which included her young twins, and for the clients she had been in charge of protecting. It was all gone and out of her control. “It was July 14, 2003, when my name appeared in the newspaper,” Plame remembers. “It was for baldly partisan reasons. I loved what I did. I was really proud to serve my country. If none of this had happened, I’d be overseas now chasing nuclear weapons.” “But it didn’t happen that way. Obviously, I’ve had to adjust, and it took a couple years. We moved from Washington, D.C. to where we are now in Santa Fe, N. Mex., and started to rebuild our personal and professional lives. It’s a process.” What happened to Plame became a huge scandal known as “Plamegate” and captured the media’s attention for years. Novak’s column came about because officials in the Bush Admin-
istration leaked Plame’s name to journalists, unhappy about her husband’s published op-eds about the lack of weapons of mass destruction. The Chief of Staff to Former Vice President Dick Cheney, Lewis “Scooter” Libby, was ultimately indicted and convicted in leaking Plame’s name to the press, but his sentence was commuted by Former President Bush. Others were involved, but Plame realizes being angry about the situation does her no good. “Being bitter is not a useful emotion. It just holds you back. Sure I’m angered by what happened and the people, but, finally, you have to let that go. You have to say, ‘Alright, so here’s the new hand I got dealt. I have small children. I have to keep working.’ You just pick yourself up.’ When I was growing up, if I came home complaining about a bad teacher, my dad, who’s gone now, would say, ‘Valerie life is not fair.’ It’s not fair! You know? So once you really accept that, you say, ‘So what am I going to do with this?’ Like everything, one thing leads to another, other doors open up, and you meet people. You find out there is a whole tribe of women out there who are interesting and interested and curious and will support you.” Today, Plame spends much of her time on the speaking circuit. Inspiring Lives Magazine caught up with her at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) in Pittsburgh, PA, where she was the keynote speaker for the school’s Information Network Institute’s STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) panel and discussion. While she does cover “Plamegate” and the details of her earlier career, her passion in her speeches focuses on cybersecurity, nuclear proliferation, why these things apply and should matter to every person on this planet, and also, why more women should enter and excel in these fields. “We still have a long way to go, as we know,” Plame laments. “I saw some protest signs I really liked around the time of the inauguration that said “I can’t believe that it’s 2017 and we still have to talk about this stuff!” “Women are still far behind in many, many ways. It’s not
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Photo: Jen Forsyth
LIVING
Valerie Plame and Jen Forsyth.
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BUSINESS IN THIS SECTION: The Do’s & Don’ts of being a Successful Work-fromHome Mom Rachel Weaver LaBar............................................................... 21
5 Reasons Women Are Better Leaders
Kristie Knights.............................................................................. 25
Leadership Lesson Series—Part 3: Inner Driven Leadership
Diane Lazarowicz...................................................................... 27
“It’s important to be willing to make mistakes. The worst thing that can happen is you become memorable.” —Sara Blakely
THE DO’S & DON’TS OF BEING A
SUCCESSFUL WORK-FROM-HOME
MOM By Rachel Weaver LaBar
I
t’s like clockwork. The second I tell anyone I work from home, the same response always follows. “You’re so lucky!” they say, envy filling their eyes. “You can work in your pajamas!” I always smile and nod. I know the picture they’re creating about my life in their minds. They see me in a fluffy robe reclining in an overstuffed armchair as I bring an espresso to my lips with one hand and typing up an email with another. This fantasy version of me then closes her laptop, stretches, puts cucumber slices over her eyes, and sighs. “Thank goodness that’s done!” she says. “Now, back to my life of uninterrupted leisure!” This scenario, while lovely, could not be farther from the truth. My reality typically involves me frantically pacing around my home office/dining room, silently praying that whatever is playing on Disney Junior lasts at least another two minutes so my toddler remains distracted and doesn’t start loudly demanding a cookie in the background of the business call I’m mere moments from finishing. Being a work-from-home mom is all about keeping the beautiful juggling act of your life soaring smoothly at all times, which can be easier said than done. It requires discipline, the ability to prioritize, and knowing when to say “no.” In my experience, the lifestyle comes with its own set of do’s and don’ts, and understanding all aspects of it can help you find the perfect balance to make it work for you and your family. The following advice has helped this mom stay sane while forging a career from the comforts of my own home— yes, occasionally while wearing pajamas. Do become a pro at time management. This is a must for any work-fromhome mom because, often, you’ll find yourself wishing you had a personal assistant to keep everything straight. There is a limited amount of time we can work each day. My daughter’s nap time is my work time, so efficiency is key. I have to be able to prioritize tasks. If a project requires more than a few hours of my time, I have to line up child care. Look as far into the coming days and weeks as you can, create a plan of attack and make sure to include
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BUSINESS time for fun things to do with the kids. Remember, it’s all about balance. Don’t give into distractions. This is by far the hardest part of working from home. You just get going with work when the doorbell rings or a friend calls. You decide to take a quick five-minute break, but the TV with the jam-packed DVR is right there and you really should watch a few things to free up some space. You sit back down at your desk but…hmm…has it always been this dusty? Better do some housework (it has to get done eventually anyway, right?), and before you know it, the day is over. Remember, no one holds you accountable but you. Don’t give procrastination the power to derail your day. Do force yourself to get out occasionally. Working from home can be lonely. You no longer have regular coworker interaction, and depending on the age of your child, you might have no one to really talk to all day. When time for a break presents itself, pack your kid up and hit the library, swing by a coffee shop or stop at the park. Do whatever you like to do as long as it’s out in the world among other people. You’ll likely feel more energized to tackle your work once you’re back at home, and your little one might even nap a little longer, allowing you to get even more done. Don’t allow friends and family to think you are at their beck and call. When you work from home, people tend to assume you’re always free and expect things of you they never
would if you worked in a more traditional setting. If surprise pop-in visits or the expectation that you can run errands for others becomes a problem, gently put an end to it. Tell the offending person, “You would never come to a place of business while I was working and expect my full attention, right? Please don’t do it while I’m working at home.” Do force yourself to schedule time off just as you would if you worked a traditional 9-to-5 job. It’s easy to get caught up in work and forget to take a break. Often, work-from-home moms are either their own bosses or freelance contractors. That means no paid sick time or vacation days, but it’s still important to give yourself the chance to disconnect and unwind. Taking care of your mental and physical health helps you ultimately be your best. Don’t feel bad about saying “no.” This applies to both your professional and personal lives. If your work plate gets too full, do not feel bad about scaling back. If your calendar becomes too packed with playdates, don’t be afraid to cancel a few. Find a rhythm and a balance that works for you, and do not let others judge you for it. Finally, do be thankful. Not everyone has the option to work from home, and while it can be challenging, it remains a luxury for most of the working world. If you are able to keep your career while saving money on child care, be grateful, and keep at it for as long as it makes sense for you and your family. n
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BUSINESS
5 REASONS WOMEN ARE BETTER LEADERS By Kristie Knights
Photo: Karen Bartos
A
s women, it is a no-brainer to see we are more effective leaders than men. However, you know how the story goes: society will be in uproar if this is stated publically. Now before I offend the men reading this article (because I know you are reading this article), yes, I did the research to substantiate the claim I am making. Do not worry! You are still the manliest of men, regardless! I regard myself as a smart woman; I would not say such a statement without supporting evidence. Often, we hear of the rise of men through the ranks; however, rarely is a woman’s rise through the ranks reported. Is it because it doesn’t happen? No, it simply isn’t reported as often. According to The Business Insider, in 2012, a research firm analyzed the leadership effectiveness of women compared to men. The research on overall leadership effectiveness between men and women demonstrated that women are 54.4% more effective than men. The research included multiple leadership competencies, which I will not review in this article. However, in this study there is a clear indication of women as better leaders. At a recent iCONIC conference, Kip Tindell, CEO of The Container Store, said women “make better business leaders than men. I think what is happening now is that you are getting more of a conscious capitalist approach and less of this top-down, military kind of structure…there’s a beautiful feminization of American business taking place.” I think we can agree as women that other women coming together, uniting, and supporting each other’s endeavors is powerful! A man authentically recognizing the gifts and talents of a woman is equally empowering; hats off to Kip! What is it about a woman that makes us better leaders? Here is just a bit of what I have observed: 1. Communication. Women are naturally more effective in communication. We are more expressive, empathetic, and egofree authentic listeners. As effective communicators, we are able to provide healthy feedback, while encouraging growth. 2. Emotional Intelligence. Although women are often criticized for being “emotional,” the level of emotional intelligence and regulation posed by women provides a foundation for balanced decision making. Women are also more patient and willing to teach others to grow and better themselves for the good of the organization.
3. Passion-Driven Momentum. Women display higher levels of passion. This is essential in leading, inspiring, and creating a team that is connected. A leader is watched at all times. Passion is contagious! 4. Relationship Skills. In any business, relationships are essential for growth. A woman has a greater ability to facilitate and maintain relationships within the organization. That is said to be true for the employees as well as the customers. Women have the innate ability to create a welcoming environment of worth. This is an asset in the morale, credibility, integrity, and growth of an organization. 5. Warrior Mentality. Women are warriors. We have learned how to succeed against all odds in multiple life experiences. This translates nicely in the professional world to our leadership roles. Women have dealt with discrimination, lack-luster attention for success, and lack of appreciation. Despite it all, women leaders rise above the odds. Tenacity, determination, and commitment to overcome the impossible give us the vote of a BETTER LEADER. Yes, you have surmounted the odds. You have fought the battles and won. Even if you don’t recognize that, it is true. Take a few minutes to survey your life and all that you are! Many of you may feel discouraged and wish for more. Stop comparing. Survey your journey. Think of three or four times you have leapt over hurdles in your life. Capture the memory for me. Got it? Sit in it for a few moments. The feelings stir as you hold the memory in your thoughts—that is the feeling of a BETTER LEADER.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 98
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LEADERSHIP LESSONS SERIES—Part 3:
INNER DRIVEN LEADERSHIP By Diane Lazarowicz
I
n part one of this three-part series on Inner Driven Leadership, we took the first step toward becoming inner driven leaders by discussing Personal Competence, where we defined our core values, personal mission statement, and authenticity. In part two of this series, we explored Social Competence and examined our social skills and interactions with other people. In this final article, we will discuss the last competency of Inner Driven Leadership: Behavioral Competence. Here we will explore some behaviors of inner driven leaders, such as goal setting, long-range planning, and life-long learning. We begin with the first behavior of inner driven leaders, goal setting. Successful leaders use goal setting techniques to help them plan a road-map toward success. Not only can goals boost performance, but they can help one feel motivated and inspired to achieve their goals. When I first began my business, I had never set goals before and was unsure of where to start. So, let us begin with SMART goals. SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound: • Specific: Be specific about what you want to achieve. Try not to be vague. Include a lot of detail. Answer the question, “My goal is to…” • Measurable: Determine how you will measure your progress. Can you see the desired results or measure them against something existing?
to touch as a result of achieving your goal? What sounds will you hear? After answering these questions, take the time to create a vision board, and place it where you can see it each day to inspire and motivate you to continue on. Now that you have your SMART goals written, let us discuss the next behavior of inner driven leaders, which is Long-Range Planning. Once your goals have been created, you need to determine how you will make them happen. The chart below shows the process one would take to create the action steps needed to achieve their goals:
ANNUAL GOAL Set one big goal
QUARTERLY GOALS Four smaller goals leading to the annual goal
MONTHLY GOALS Three monthly goals leading to the four quarterly goals
WEEKLY/DAILY GOALS
• Achievable: Develop a strategy for how you are going to achieve your goal. What skills, knowledge, and resources are needed to achieve this goal? Are you equipped? Is it realistic?
Daily goals leading to the monthly goals
REVIEW
• Relevant: Define your “Why.” Why do you want to achieve this goal? How does this goal relate to you and your business or life?
Review as you go along and make needed adjustments
• Time-Bound: Set a deadline. Goals without deadlines tend to be put off. On what date do you plan to achieve the goal?
Using the chart above, let us walk through an example of how this would work if our goal was to create a social media plan.
When preparing your SMART goals, write them down because written goals are more likely to be achieved. Also, share your goals with others. Telling others adds an element of accountability, making you more apt to make them happen. In addition, try to visualize and experience your goals. Deeply submerge your thoughts into what achieving that goal will be like. If possible, engage the five senses. Ask yourself how you will feel when the goal happens? What changes will you see in your life? Can you taste or smell anything (like the salty seashore) as a result of reaching your goal? What will you be able
• • •
Annual Goal: Create an annual social media plan Quarterly Goals: Set up 4 quarters with a theme for each quarter. E.g. Q1 we will discuss Leadership. Repeat for Q2, Q3, Q4. Monthly Goals: Q1 January—Discuss leadership defined; Q1 February—Discuss leadership behaviors; Q1March— Discuss leadership assessments.
Repeat the same process for the other quarters and months.
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BUSINESS • •
Weekly Goals: January Theme—Leadership. Q1: Leadership defined. Week 1: Definition; Week 2: Statistics; Week 3: Changes in leadership over the years; Week 4: Quote from famous leader. Repeat the same process for the other Months and Weeks. Daily Goals: List the month and the days of the week 1–31. Write a topic related to your theme for each day.
Yes, this may appear time consuming, and it is initially. But, once complete, it serves as a detailed roadmap toward achieving this goal. Actually, this was one of my recent goals, and I completed a plan just like this in about 3-4 hours. The objective is to Plan the Work and Work the Plan so you can achieve your goal. Besides goal setting, inner driven leaders have a 5-Year Plan. Once again, when I began my business, I did not have one. When asked, “Where do you see yourself in five years,” I said, “I don’t know.” I was then told that if I did not have a plan, I would most likely be in the same place I am today five years from now. Imagine remaining stagnant with no growth personally or professionally for five years. That thought prompted me to create a 5-Year Plan for my life and business. Here again, it took time, about 5-8 hours, but was worth it.
Begin with a big picture of what you want to accomplish in Year One, then Year Two, and so on. When complete, you will have mapped out the next five years of your life. Having a plan like this is motivational and keeps you focused on what is really important. By no means is this plan locked in stone, as you can change it at any time. The last behavior of inner driven leaders is to be a life-long learner. Most leaders are learners. It is important to continue to be a student of life. Read books, listen to audio books, take courses, and attend seminars. Learning fuels growth for leaders. Other opportunities for growth include taking leadership and DiSC assessments and working with an executive/leadership coach. Often, leaders do not know what they do not know, so coaching is valuable in helping them develop. This concludes part three of the Behavioral Competencies of Inner Driven Leadership. In this section, we explored the behavioral skills of goal setting, long-range planning, and long-term learning, all necessary to be an inner driven leader. In the Inner Driven Leadership series, we explored the three competencies of Inner Driven leadership: Personal, Social, and Behavioral Competencies. As you finish this final article of this series, continue growing your own Inner Driven Leadership by completing the following action steps. Thank you for joining us on this journey. n
ACTION STEPS PERSONAL COMPETENCY
SOCIAL COMPETENCY
BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCY
Determine if your core values, personal mission, and leadership are in alignment
Strengthen your communication skills by taking a DiSC Behavioral Assessment Profile
• Create Annual, Monthly, Weekly, and Daily Goals. • Write out a 5-Year Plan. • Leaders are Learners…keep studying your craft.
Diane Lazarowicz is an award-winning executive coach and communication and leadPhoto: Clare Ascani Photography
ership expert who helps women trust their inner voice to achieve their goals through
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the delivery of strong communication and leadership. Diane has over thirty-five years of professional business experience and is a Suma Cum Laude graduate of Robert Morris
University. As a life-learner, she is also a graduate of the Referral Institute and the Dale Carnegie Skills for Success program. In addition, Lazarowicz serves on the Board of
Directors for the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce and is co-chair of the
Membership Committee. She is also a volunteer and advocate of the “Choices” youth program. TOPPERFORMANCERESULTS.COM
FIND YOUR TRIBE OF PEOPLE WHO JUST “GET” YOU Visit an upcoming meeting of Pittsburgh Women's Mastermind and discover support, connection, and personal growth with a group of likeminded women business owners. We have over 100 members who are collaborating and growing their businesses together. PITTSBURGH Our chapters are located in Cranberry Township, Robinson WOMEN’S Township, or South Hills. RSVP soon as our meetings fill up quickly! RSVP at www.joybufalini.com/pwm
MASTERMIND
CULTURE IN THIS SECTION: From Rock Band, the Video Game, to the Real Thing: The Warning
Tarra Flores-Sloan.............................................. 33
What’s Your Soundtrack?
Jess Branas........................................................ 37
Little Girl’s Mermaid Tale Makes a Big Splash
Cori Wamsley.................................................... 39
BOOK REVIEW: BEAUTIFUL
Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................ 43
Passages and Prose Showcases Local Authors, Lets Them Shine
Cori Wamsley.................................................... 45
“I grew up in a world that told girls they couldn’t play rock ‘n roll.” —Joan Jett
FROM ROCK BAND, THE VIDEO GAME, TO THE REAL THING:
THE
WARNING
By Tarra Flores-Sloan • Photography by Luis Villarreal
T
hree girls played a cover of Metallica’s Enter Sandman on a YouTube video that was shared on Facebook. It had more than 15 million views. Chills instantly came over me when I watched their video, and I knew that I had to interview them. It was late July when I finally caught up with The Warning, three sisters from Monterrey, Mexico. Dany Villarreal (lead vocals and guitar, age 17) and her sisters Paulina (drums, lead and backup vocals, age 15) and Ale (bass and backup vocals, age 12) were preparing for a concert with Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Alice Cooper, Tesla, and others. I felt like I was speaking with three best friends—not sisters who spent each day studying, singing, and practicing together. Practicing sometimes two to three hours per day, these young ladies have a serious work ethic. Early on, the sisters were introduced to music, instruments, and dance. “We all started out playing piano and taking dance lessons,” Dany said. “Since we were little, we have always been in a musical environment. If we weren’t in a band, we would definitely have stayed in the arts. I can’t imagine being a lawyer or a doctor.” Playing the Rock Band video game is what sparked their interest in playing instruments other than piano. Since then, Dany has been playing guitar for 9 years, Paulina drums for 8 years, and Ale bass for 5 years. Influenced by all music genres, they identify their own style as a mix of original, modern, and classic rock. A school festival gave them their first opportunity to perform together as a band. I asked the girls about the first songs they ever loved. Dany said, “I was obsessed with Comfortably Numb by Pink Floyd.” “The first song I ever loved was Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Queen,” Paulina said. “I watched Elton John concerts, and Yellow Brick Road was my favorite…I was three,” Ale said. Already, The Warning has performed for Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass.; TEDx at the University of Nevada (Reno, Nev.); House of Blues in Anaheim, Calif.; and their first music video for their first single, and they have also graced television sets across America on The Ellen Show. Their humble spirits, intelligent minds, collaborative love, and positive attitudes melted the hearts of viewers. Soon, The Warning will take the stage at the Mother of All Rock Festival, as well. “We will be the only Mexican band there,” Dany said. “Rock music is popular in most Mexican and Latin communi-
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MUSIC
Dany Villarreal
ties. Even if they aren’t fans, we all know the songs. We are very popular in Brazil also.” With each full day of work and study, the sisters still make time for extracurricular activities and friends. “When we aren’t playing music, I love to color or doodle and design clothes,” Paulina said. “I love to read fantasy, Percy Jackson or Harry Potter,” Ale said. “We still make time for our friends, too,” Dany said. “They are very supportive. We can’t go to every party as we just aren’t home all the time anymore. The trade is that we are sharing the
stage with legends that we have always looked up to. That is super exciting.” For these girls to achieve their dream so early in life, they had to have a fantastic support system at home. This is also one of the places they found their inspiration. Without hesitation, the sisters agreed on who their heroes are. “Both my parents are my heroes,” Paulina said. “My parents are the perfect role models.” “Without them we couldn’t be here,” Dany added. “When we are tired, my parents encourage us to try again, always pushing us to be the best musicians and people we can be. They have helped a lot more than anyone can even imagine.” What would they tell other aspiring musicians? “If anyone out there has a dream,” Dany said, “don’t give up. Go after it. It can be stressful. But it is worth it in the end. Rock is alive. Girl power!” Rock on, sisters! n For more information, visit TheWarningBand.com or Facebook/TheWarningMusic3. Tarra Flores Sloan is a two time best-selling author, entrepreneur, wife, and mama of three.
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Paulina Villarreal
Ale Villarreal
DJ STACY STYLEZ WHAT’S YOUR SOUNDTRACK?
However, Feldbrandt, like many of us, picks her daily tracks depending on her present mood. At this point of our conversation, I would love to choose the song “Happy” for her soundtrack, which is how she sounds as she talks about her next endeavor. She isn’t just a beautiful mother, wife, and deejay, but a fashionista, as well. Stacy is creating a line of clothing based on her style and wants to bring it to the mainstream. Wanting to make life fun, she mixes funky with business-wear: a sure bet for an exciting line in the future. “I want to put smiles on people’s faces.” And this woman certainly does! Not only captivating, DJ Stacy’s journey is certainly motivating. We tend to stop ourselves from living our passion out of fear. We worry about people’s judgment. DJ Stacy is a teacher and a prime example of an authentic woman who exudes confidence and loves life. Her wise words? “Don’t give power to people who try to discourage you or others. Life is too short. But that person can’t stop you from living your passion and your life. It’s YOUR life.” n
Photo: Dennis Rodriguez
W
hether you’re at a club, wedding, or red carpet affair, no one can deny that the music will make or break it. Stacy Spierer-Feldbrandt (known as DJ Stacy Stylez) has just the soundtrack and personality that brings joy to audiences all over the world. From New York to Israel, making one decision to say “yes” started her on a path to living her passion. This truly is a woman who sets a precedent that we can all follow. So how did this begin? “I actually got lucky from the start. Just for fun, I was making mixed tapes at home and one of my mixes got into the right hands. One of my ex-boyfriends was a producer and had someone come over who was in the music industry. They loved my mixes. And in the meantime, a girlfriend of mine was running a club and knew I should do something with this…so she asked me come down to DJ one night.” This was her “yes.” That one small step with which many of us struggle. Not knowing the outcome, not knowing the “howto,” and certainly not having experience stops many of us from going after what we want. With Stacy, she demonstrates to all of us to live in the present and just have some fun. “I figured, what did I have to lose?” As I listened, I was in awe of this woman who loves life. The chuckles that came from her as she recounted that night instantly put a smile on my face as I’m sure she does with everyone whom she encounters. “I really didn’t know what I was doing. Making mixes and deejaying are two totally different things. All I could do was show up. I had my mixes, some albums, and a tambourine. And every time I changed an album I shook that tambourine and put out my high energy, which made the crowd go insane.” On this night, her luck continued as David Letterman’s crew came in looking for a venue for Paul Shaffer’s surprise party. This is where the next step appeared. They liked what they saw and hired her for an after party. Since that fateful night, it’s been “a rollercoaster of a ride.” And yes, there are more passengers on that rollercoaster. Feldbrandt is far more than just a superstar; she is a wife and mother who brings that same energy to her family. “It’s pretty crazy. I have a 1-year-old and a 3-year-old. I find it challenging, but somehow, I’m able to do it. I’m not going to let anything hold me back. For my children, I’m also making them better as people. This journey teaches them about creativity and doing what you love, which will help them later in life.” As we continued our conversation, we laughed in agreement that every day of our life has a soundtrack. Being a lover of music, she doesn’t claim one distinct style as her favorite.
Photo: Mara Rago
By Jess Branas
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Photo: Mitch Mitchell
Brianne Mitchell and her daughter, Della.
Little Girl’s Mermaid Tale Makes a Big Splash By Cori Wamsley
D
ella Mitchell, a fourth grader, is a big dreamer. And her ability to tell stories is unique. Della’s mother, Brianne, said that Della has been telling stories since she could talk, and she thought about writing them down for years. When she finally did write one down in early 2014, it was a work of art that reflected Della’s caring, gentle nature. This story became Della and Lila Meet the Monongahela Mermaid. “Della’s stories were always about fantastical creatures, mermaids, fairies, and unicorns,” Brianne said. “They were full of whimsy, creativity, and magic. She has a great sense of adventure and loves nature.” She began this story—about helping a mermaid—while she was doing her homework, and Brianne finally took the opportunity to start typing. Della’s story featured sweet little animals and her family and friends, as well. Her little sister, Lila, got in on the fun, advising on what the mermaid should look like—green with blonde hair, like her, of course!—and giving other details. Della had final
say, though, and made the mermaid, Marina, a brunette with a rainbow fin. As they worked on the book, Della played a big part in the story development and design choices. After Della finished telling the story, Brianne read it back to her, and Della tweaked her masterpiece. “After Della was done with her tale, there were a few loose ends, so I asked questions about the plot. She knew all the answers.” She made a few more changes on the next reading. Of course, because the book is aimed at young elementary age children, Della was an expert on what her audience wanted, so after they decided to publish, Brianne and Della worked together to determine the best artwork, size, and texture for the book. They looked at books at the book store to discover what artwork was most appealing to children. When they found their illustrator, Sian Bowman, Bowman would send sketches for Della’s approval and also asked for pictures of Della doing certain things so she could sketch her for the book. Both Della and her sister enjoyed posing for the illustrations.
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BOOKS Then they visited the library and the girls’ private book collection to see what book size worked best for little hands, and they decided to make the cover 85% recycled material with a rubbery feel based on what felt good to Della. The finished product is appealing to both the eye and the hand. Being such a young author, Della actually takes the whole author bit, “in stride,” Brianne said. “Being creative is part of her normal process. Entertaining everyone with a story is natural to her, so I doubt she understands the magnitude of being a published author at her age.” Her stories have changed as Della has matured, now including humor. Della is inspired by Jim Henson’s creatures. She adores the Muppets, especially Fozzie, and blends Henson’s whimsy with the humor of some of her favorite comedians, like Jimmy Fallon and Will Ferrell. But, her stories always feature a lesson and show her caring and nurturing side. The talented girl also enjoys other creative pursuits, including entering art and photography shows and writing music. Della writes lyrics and strums chords on her guitar, and she enjoys sharing her songs with her family. And when she’s not involved in one of her creative outlets, she’s probably in her room reading.
Brianne herself is a creative-type, as well, so she was the perfect partner for Della’s stories. She has taught English at local colleges and has written and published some academic pieces prior to taking the leap to the creative side. “I always loved to write, but I never considered myself an ‘author.’ I stepped outside of my comfort zone, though, because I wanted the girls to see that it’s worth it to try. I want them to see that you really CAN do it.” Their books are intended to “develop early childhood literacy, encourage creativity, and cultivate environmental and community service awareness in the minds of our youth.” In fact, the whole family has involved themselves in this mission. Proceeds from the book go to the non-profit they established, the River Fund, which provides educational and enrichment opportunities for children in southwestern Pennsylvania. Also, they raise money and awareness for local causes like scholarships, litter clean-up, and more. “The River Fund allows us to give back to kids and families,” Brianne explained. “I wanted my kids to see that it’s important to give back. Doing things for children is part of my soul.” Della and Lila Meet the Monongahela Mermaid is quickly gaining local popularity and is available not only on the website (www.dellaandlila.com), but also on Amazon.com and the iTunes bookstore and at local libraries, the Carnegie Science Center, the PPG Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, and other local favorite children’s places. The book was also lauded by Pittsburgh Magazine with one of the Best of the ‘Burgh awards this summer. Della’s next book, a tale of adventure where the girls sail off with the Monongahela River pirates, called Della and Lila and the Treasure Adventure, is expected to be out in the fall of 2017. n
Photo: Debbie Bayer
Clockwise, from top left: Brianne, Mitch, Lila, and Della Mitchell.
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BOOK REVIEW BEAUTIFUL, BY MARIO EPANYA
By Dr. Shellie Hipsky • Photography by Mario Epanya
B
EAUTIFUL is a celebration of black beauty captured through the lens of Paris-based, Cameroon-born photographer, Mario Epanya. For just over a decade, Epanya has worked to promote diversity in fashion and portraiture, highlighting the myriad shades and textures in black skin tone and hair, as well as the variety of body shapes and sizes. His iconic images, shaping the modern face of African beauty, fashion, and style have appeared in groundbreaking publications, among them New African Woman and Zen Magazine, and in campaigns for the likes of L’Oreal Paris and Maybelline New York. BEAUTIFUL presents a stunning collection of existing and never before seen portraits featuring everyday women and models of color, and it pays homage to the strong women who raised Epanya—his beloved grandmother, mother, sisters, aunts, and friends—telling the visual story that black is indeed BEAUTIFUL. Epanya started his career as a self-taught hair and makeup artist in 1995. In 2000, he moved to France where he studied and became a professional makeup artist working for the likes
of Dessange Paris. As a hairdresser and assistant for art agencies, he worked for several high-fashion brands. In 2007 Epanya made the transition to photography and set up his studio, Studioepanya. In 2010, Epanya garnered widespread attention for his creation of fictional Vogue Africa covers celebrating black beauty. The buzz drew attention to the need for greater diversity in the global fashion and beauty industries. Following this, Epanya created an online magazine, Winkler, and held his first photography exhibition, GLAMAZONIA, a series of black and white images dedicated to black beauty. This exhibition has been on display worldwide, including the Africana exhibit curated in Pittsburgh, Pa., by Demetria Boccella. n WWW.SHOKOPRESS.COM
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Patron Sponsor
Author Lillie Leonardi Presents
Passages & Prose: A Gathering of Authors and Their Books October 7th, 2017 10:00am - 4:00pm The Twentieth Century Club
4201 Bigelow Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 For more information visit:
passagesandprose.com
Passages & Prose 2017 is made possible with generous support from: Patron Sponsor UPMC Health Plan | Barnes & Noble Booksellers | Cribs For Kids | Embroidery From the Heart | Inspiring Lives Magazine | The Twentieth Century Club | WQED Multimedia | Author J.D. Wylde | B.F. Jones Memorial Librar y | C ooper-Siegel C ommunity Librar y | Characters by Kim | Pittsburgh Mercy Health System Operation Safety Net | Pittsburgh Puppet Works | Shaler North Hills Library | Springdale Free Public Library | Word Association Publishers
PASSAGES AND PROSE SHOWCASES LOCAL AUTHORS, LETS THEM SHINE By Cori Wamsley
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uthor Lillie Leonardi has always had a heart for helping others. For more than 25 years, she worked in law enforcement, beginning with municipal policing and two college campuses in Pittsburgh, Pa., and then going on to the FBI. Responding to the Flight 93 plane crash on September 11, 2001, however, changed her life forever. When she arrived, she witnessed a legion of angels encircling the site. After the crash, Leonardi served as liaison to United Airlines and surviving family members, law enforcement agencies, and social service organizations and assisted with preparations for two memorial services. Like many of her fellow responders, she became afflicted with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Leonardi sought therapy to help her recover, and her psychologist suggested that she start journaling her thoughts and emotions surrounding the event. When she eventually let her brother read her journal, he encouraged her to write a book based on the entries. He thought the story deserved to be told, and might serve as a source of healing for the families of those who were lost in the plane crash as well as the responders. In 2013, Leonardi published her first book with Hay House entitled In the Shadow of a Badge: A Memoir about Flight 93, a Field of Angels, and My Spiritual Homecoming. Just two years later, Leonardi founded Passages & Prose, dedicated to supporting reading, writing, and literacy in Pittsburgh and its surrounding communities. Passages &
Photo: Annie O’Neill
Lillie Leonardi
Prose offers arts and literacy programming through events, partnerships, collaborations, and workshops and provides opportunities for published authors to share their literary works with the public. For the third year, Leonardi is hosting Passages & Prose: A Gathering of Authors and Their Books, an annual event giving area authors a chance to interact with readers. “In creating Passages & Prose, I wanted to help aspiring and working authors achieve their literary goals,” said Leonardi. “Having had the desire to write since I was a child, my dream of becoming an author was something I thought about often, but never had the chance to pursue due to career, commitments, and timing. Once I was able to fulfill my purpose and heal through sharing my story, I knew I wanted to help others do the same and chose to start Passages & Prose as a way to continue serving.” This year’s Passages & Prose kicks off with a preview event at Barnes & Noble Booksellers at Settlers Ridge in Robinson Township, Pa., with authors Daniel Lowe, Sarah Stephens, and Wendy Walker on Friday, October 6, 2017 at 7 pm. The main event will be held October 7 from 10 am to 4 pm at The Twentieth Century Club in Pittsburgh. It will feature more than 50 local and national authors throughout the day, including the featured author for this article, Therese Rocco, who during her early days of policing trained Leonardi in crimes against children investigations. The event is free, open to the public, and family-friendly. Registration is suggested at passagesandprose2017. eventbrite.com. For more information about Passages & Prose, please visit passagesandprose.com. Photo: 24-Hour Woman
BOOKS
AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: THERESE ROCCO Pittsburgh’s First Female Assistant Police Chief The first woman in the Pittsburgh Police Department to become assistant poTherese Rocco lice chief was Therese Rocco. Being a trailblazer for women in law enforcement all over the country was no easy task, and now, Rocco has published Therese Rocco: Pittsburgh’s First Female Assistant Police Chief about her experience. At a time when women weren’t expected to work in dangerous occupations, Rocco began her career as a clerk in the Pittsburgh Police Department in 1948. “I was right out of high school and needed a job to help out at home. My neighbor had a connection at the department in the missing persons bureau, so that’s where I went.” The position was supposed to be temporary, but Rocco had found her calling.
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BOOKS “Everyone thought I was too young to work there. In fact, when I walked in the first day, they thought I was a runaway.” Everyone in that office was a woman, and most of them were mid-career. They were tough on her. The woman who was second in command of the department was particularly hard on Rocco, till she noticed that she had both interest in the work and talent. After that, she became Rocco’s mentor. “Having a mentor, especially in this type of work, is so important. You don’t gain anything in this world thinking you have all the answers.” Because she was such a good fit for working with children, no matter how they became involved with the police, Rocco quickly moved from clerical work to investigative work. “I’m a very compassionate person by nature, just like my mother. I’m good at listening to people’s problems so I did that with the kids. I loved advising them and locating them. What really excited me about the job was that I could care about humans in need.” The protocols for investigating missing children cases that Rocco established while she worked in that department saved numerous children’s lives, and she cared deeply about each of them. “Everybody’s child that I encountered was my child, whether they were abused, neglected, going astray, involved in prostitution, or addicted to drugs.” Her father passed away a short time after she started her job, and her mother had no idea that she was doing anything dangerous. She would have been shocked if she found out, and Rocco wanted to protect her. “I did some decoy work that she wouldn’t have approved of. For my first decoy job, I was supposed to be a victim. I had to wait for a ‘masher’ (a pervert) to sit down beside me in a theater and touch my leg. Then I had to raise my hand to alert the rest of the team to come in. I was so flustered when the man touched me that I forgot to raise my hand and ended up chasing him from the
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theater myself. I grabbed his leg and pulled his pants down as he ran.” Rocco was tough, and it’s a good thing. Not only was she in a dangerous career at a time when they had no internet, gun support, or walkie-talkies, she also had no training and was treated as “second class.” “I was discriminated against for being a woman, but when they needed help, no one hesitated to ask me or the other women. They knew we were good.” Rocco eventually stood up for female officers working under her in the department and nationwide. When she was a captain, Rocco and other female police officers all over the country were invited by chiefs of police to talk about why women should be on the force. United, these women helped others gain guns, rank, and respect. Here in Pittsburgh, when other women in the police department sued the Superintendent of Police and the City for equal pay and equal rights, Rocco supported them by going to court with them, though she didn’t join the lawsuit herself. When the case was finalized, the women got what they wanted and were considered legitimate police officers. Over her 50-year career, Rocco saw a lot, but she always loved her job and remembered every case she worked on. “So many people burn out after a few years, but someone once commented that I had the same enthusiasm as I did 20 years ago. I went into something I manifested into a fantastic career. I never gave up.” She has been honored for her tenacity in solving missing children cases multiple times, including her receipt of the Women of Achievement Award this past spring from Cribs for Kids, a Pittsburgh-area non-profit. With such a fascinating career, it’s no wonder that her friend Connie Valenti predicted that she would write a book about it. “Connie told me for years that I should write a book about all my experiences. And when I did, it took me twoand-a-half years to write!” Rocco was able to attend the University of Pittsburgh while she was a captain on the force, and enjoyed her writing courses. Having a desire to finally pen the tale, Rocco wrote the entire thing by hand, and a friend typed it for her. “I was amazed by how much I remembered. I would go to bed and think about what I wanted to write. Then, I would wake up during the night and write it all down.” Therese Rocco: Pittsburgh’s First Female Assistant Police Chief was finally published in March of this year with Word Association Publishers, and Rocco has enjoyed speaking at events in the Pittsburgh area where she gets to tell the stories of her incredible career. What advice would Rocco give women starting a new career today? “When you suddenly find something you think you will like, don’t give up. Stick with it. If you want something, work at it. It’s going to be rough. If you have a career like mine, you have to be wise enough to protect yourself and not let the work change your character. It’s all worth it to do something you love.” n
RevelandRoost.com Reservations are encouraged. Please call 412-281-1134 . 242 FORBES AVENUE, PITTSBURGH PA 15222
FOOD & TRAVEL IN THIS SECTION: RESTAURANT REVIEW: Revel + Roost
Rachel Dayoub........................................................................... 51
Passport to Inspiration: Flight 93 National Memorial
Kim Adley..................................................................................... 52
“One must travel, to learn.” —Mark Twain
REVEL ROOST
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RESTAURANT REVIEW REVEL + ROOST•PITTSBURGH, PA
By Rachel Dayoub • Photos by Revel + Roost Do yourself a favor, and visit the heart of downtown Pittsburgh in Market Square to dine at Revel + Roost, a rustic American restaurant. The name itself invokes the atmosphere: to “Revel” is to take great pleasure, while “Roost” refers to staying, especially through the night. You will, indeed, enjoy spending your evening here! The electric atmosphere collides with the energy of Pittsburgh as soon as you walk in the front door of Revel, the bottom half of the restaurant. Revel is the sophisticated lounge with an open feel and live music on certain evenings. They serve lunch and dinner with a very innovative menu. Roost, the upper level, has an inviting sit-down restaurant feel. When we arrived, we were greeted with a smile and led upstairs to Roost. We were seated at a beautiful table by the window overlooking the busy streets and energy of downtown. We admired the natural motifs and drift wood fixtures with so many other elements that display what Roost is all about. Amy, our enthusiastic server started us off with two seasonal cocktails. • The 6-Toed Cat is a Hemingway daiquiri with rosemary and plum. Devin Reed, the assistant executive restaurant manager, explained the name: Ernest Hemmingway once adopted a six-toed cat. • The Cran Can, a favorite of mine, has cranberry vodka, orange, and rosacea tarragon. We ordered two incredible appetizers and a variety of bread with cinnamon butter. • Pan-Roasted Scallops with maple-glazed pork belly, burnt shallot puree, and candied walnuts. • BBQ Grass-Fed Short Ribs with bread and butter pickles, stone ground mustard, and herbs. After the appetizers lit our taste buds on fire with excitement, out came the salads. • Mesclun Salad has field greens, carrots, cucumbers, radish, grape tomatoes, and a fresh lemon vinaigrette dressing. • Kale Caesar Salad has kale, roasted red pepper, and parmesan crumble. When our salads arrived, Devin explained that everything used in the kitchen is from local farmers and is all organic. Soon, it was time for the entrees! Three meals were placed in front of us, and I almost felt guilty eating them, since Chef Robert Tanner makes them look like a work of art. I will always go for the filet first—and it was definitely my favorite—however, the other entrees were delectable, too. Let me make your mouth water for a moment. • 10 oz. filet topped with crab meat, Grandma’s mashed potatoes, summer vegetables, and foie gras butter. • Murray’s Chicken Breast with corn puree, wilted spinach, zucchini, carrots, and herb-crushed potatoes.
Pan Roasted Scallops • Pan Roasted Skuna Bay Salmon with savoy cabbage slaw, asparagus, tomatoes, and mango vinaigrette. Throughout Chef Tanner’s selection, Amy served the wine that best suited the entrees. While we were digesting and hoping there would be room for dessert, Devin told us some interesting stories about the start of Revel + Roost. The restaurant is connected to the Hilton Garden Inn, and they have many banquets and events. Then guests can walk right down the hall and reserve a room for the evening. Then, dessert made its way to the table, and it was worth the wait! • Peach Cobbler consists of fresh peaches from the farm, baked with a layer of cinnamon crumbles, and topped with two scoops of vanilla ice cream. • S’mores Pie is two graham cracker crusts with semi-melted chocolate cut into triangles. Fire-warmed marshmallows accompany the treat. It was the perfect way to end this experience. Inspiring Lives Magazine plans to frequent Revel + Roost. The atmosphere, service, and quality of food opens up a world of flavor. The nontraditional concept and creative ideas by Chef Tanner made this a 5-star experience. n Location: 242 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Price Range: $31 to $50 Attire: Dressy revelandroost.com
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L VA I R
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Photo: Ray Feather
RIVAL • AR AR
FLIGHT 93 NATIONAL MEMORIAL By Kim Adley • Photography by Kim Adley A JOURNEY OF REMEMBRANCE The older I get, the harder it is to remember things. I tell myself it’s just the natural progression of the human mind. But, I know, there are some things that should never be forgotten. They are the important dates, the significant people in our lives, and also the momentous events that seem to change everything. I remember distinctly where I was, what I was doing, and who I was with on that late summer morning of September 11, 2001, like it was yesterday. I was having breakfast with a friend after dropping my son off at school. She and I were chatting when we learned from our waitress that America was under attack. I remember leaving the restaurant in a fog to go home and watch the live news coverage and the repetitive surreal footage of the planes hitting the World Trade Center in New York City. I sat fixated, stunned, and time seemed to stand still. Then more horrific events occurred, as the Pentagon was attacked. The last sucker punch hit in a remote western Pennsylvania field in Somerset County, as a fourth plane went down violently. I was sobbing, shaking…trying to process it all. It was a day like no other for America and the world, when life as we know it was shattered by the deadliest terrorist attack in world history. We must always remember. September 11, 2017, marks the 16th anniversary of 9/11. For the Americans who watched that day unfold on television, for the army of first responders who selflessly worked to make sense of the wreckage, and for the families who lost loved ones to the senseless acts of violence, there is truly nothing that can erase the horror of that day. However, the passing of time is like a soothing balm that has a way of softening the sharpness of the pain and dulling the vividness of the devastation and loss. But I tell you, as difficult as it is, we must always remember. I decided it was time to take my important “Journey of Remembrance“ this year to the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pa. It is the site of our nation’s permanent memorial to the passengers and crew of Flight 93. Flight 93 National Memorial is one of 400 parks in the National Park System. Visitors are greeted by a large topographical map that lays out the expansive site for self-guided touring. A new Visitors Center Complex, dedicated for the 15th anniversary of 9/11, introduces visitors to the story of the ill-fated flight
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and its heroic passengers and crew. This interactive and well done complex features numerous exhibits, a viewing window, bookstore and Flight Path Walkway and Overlook. Park rangers are readily available inside the visitor center to answer questions and give guidance. The complex sits on the hill overlooking the crash site and connects with Memorial Plaza and the Wall of Names below by paved road and walkway. This formal walkway, called the “Allee,” surrounds the entire field and is lined with 40 trees, one for each of the 40 passengers who lost their lives. The crash site itself consists of the plane impact site (marked by a boulder) and the debris field. The fields and woods beyond are the final resting place for the passengers and crew. Their remains are still present and this place is truly hallowed ground. It is a peaceful and solemn place to visit, and I suggest giving yourself at least 2 hours to explore, meditate, and experience the entire Memorial. The weather can be changeable in the Laurel Highland Mountain Ridge, so it is wise to be prepared for cooler windy conditions as well. Wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for your walk of remembrance. My journey to the Flight 93 National Memorial was reflective and inspirational. As I worked my way through the exhibits of the visitor center, I learned the dramatic story of the flights timeline and the heroic intervention of the passengers and crew of Flight 93. We may never know all the details of that fateful day, but we do know that the selflessness and courage of 40 passengers and crew changed history, and that needs to be remembered. I left the site knowing in my heart that those 40 passengers and crew are American heroes and this resting place in a common field is now a place of honor. The preamble to the mission statement of the Memorial Committee summarizes their intention in creating this evocative memorial. It says: A COMMON FIELD ONE DAY, A FIELD OF HONOR FOREVER: May all who visit this place Remember the collective acts of courage And sacrifice of the passengers and crew, Revere this hallowed ground as the final Resting place of those heroes, and Reflect on the power of individuals who Chose to make a difference.
6424 Lincoln Hwy, Stoystown, PA 15563 • www.nps.gov/flni
Kim Adley is the owner and tour designer of Passport to Pittsburgh, LLC, a custom tour design company for Pittsburgh and beyond (www.passporttopittsburgh.com). She is also the 22-year sole proprietor of Characters By Kim, a professional storytelling business in western Pennsylvania (www.charactersbykim.com).
HEALTH & WELLNESS IN THIS SECTION: Nemacolin Woodlands Spa
Dr. Shellie Hipsky....................................................................... 57
Inspired to Thrive After Adversity
Brittany Warnick......................................................................... 61
Getting Back to What You Love After Breast Cancer Cori Wamsley............................................................................. 63
“The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it.” —C.C. Scott
NEMACOLIN WOODLANDS SPA
THE SERENITY THAT YOU DESERVE By Dr. Shellie Hipsky • Photos Provided by Nemacolin
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ying in the serene environment of the Woodlands Spa, I drifted into a peaceful mood as the skilled aesthetician worked her magic, using the lavender and lemongrass scents. The soothing spa music played as I was lulled into a calm state through the skin smoothing body butter treatment. I have had the pleasure of enjoying the innovative treatments at the Woodlands Spa previously, and this one lived up to my expectations. The Woodlands offers seasonal services and remedies to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.
Featuring forty treatment rooms and a full service salon, the Woodlands Spa offers a wonderful variety of services. Whether your goal is relaxation, rejuvenation, or true luxury, their talented staff will guide you through a journey of well-being. You can stay at the exquisite high appointed resort that has hosted celebrities and presidents or only come to the spa for a day of pampering. Try their signature services, including the Woodlands Ritual Facial or the Dream Catcher Massage. Retreat from the stresses of life at the Woodlands Spa and Holistic Healing Center at Nemacolin. n
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Holistic Healing Center.
Total body health is a focus at the Woodlands Spa.
Third Floor Lounge. The serene surroundings and warm atmosphere ease you into calm.
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Relaxing with a friend at Nemocolian’s Woodland Spa helps your stress to melt away. Turn up the heat, and sweat away your worries in the sauna.
Fall
SPA SPECIALS
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER • NOVEMBER
Garden Harvest Body Scrub 80-minutes | $240
A one of a kind garden-to-table experience in the spa! Pick from beautiful and fragrant fresh potted herbs to incorporate into a customized coconut oil and organic sugar scrub, hand ground and mixed in the treatment room. Choice of fresh Rosemary, Mint, Lavender or Lemongrass. This ultra-personalized treatment includes a full body exfoliation with your customized scrub and is finished with a light massage using a tailored herbal blended lotion. Guests receive Herbal Tea to enjoy after the treatment. Enjoy the aromatic herbs harvested from our garden while slipping into total relaxation! For more information on spa specials or to book an appointment, please contact a Resort Reservations Specialist at 724.780.2145, or the Woodlands Spa at 724.329.6772.
Inspired to Thrive After Adversity By Brittany Warnick
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id you know that homicide rates for intimate partner violence rise 80% for victims during separation and dissolution of the relationship? On December 2, 2016, I almost became part of that statistic. But God had other plans. After I ended our relationship, my ex-boyfriend beat me beyond recognition. I had been planning to walk the runway in a fashion fundraising event that would happen just a few days after the attack. Instead, I found out I would need reconstructive eye surgery because my face was a mess with broken bones. As one more thing I loved was snatched from me by my abuser, I angrily turned to Facebook to vent. I posted about the regret and loss. I had wanted to participate in the fundraiser so much. Little did I know, fashion was to be my savior. The response to my post was explosive! Dr. Shellie Hipsky and several others involved with the fundraising event offered me their support in light of what happened. Because of this one post, I soon discovered an entire group of inspirational women and survivors, The Global Sisterhood of Empowering Women. They are not only survivors, but they are also “thrivers” in life, business, and community. The more I get to know them, I realize that I have found people who are not only supportive but also play a role in positive friendship and mentoring.
After being welcomed into this group, I was surprisingly in good spirits over the following weeks. Even now, I see a huge transformation in my lifestyle that is positive and productive in ways it was not before this incident. Even with their support, I still suffer from episodes of trauma-induced paranoia (aka “trust issues,” but can you blame me?) as well as some nightmares. I’m still working through some negative thought processes and react or become reactive to certain comments and behaviors I deem “unacceptable” in others. Though I deal with this trauma, I have NOT let those negative issues rule my life. In the months since the incident, I have graduated with honors from West Virginia University, with my second college degree, which emphasizes communication, psychology, and social behaviors. I joined Americorps Vista working for the WVU extension services for the Community Learning Academy held every spring in West Virginia. In the spring of 2018, I will start my master’s in corporate and organizational communications, hoping it will lead to bigger and better things for my non-profit, SPROUT. I am taking steps to obtain my doctorate in psychology—which has always been a goal—so I can help people and remove the stigmas that surround mental health. Helping others is how I heal.
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Design by Brian David Thompson
Photo: Angie Candell Brandon; HMUA by La Pomponnee; Fashion
Warnick on the runway at the Dress for Success 25th Anniversary fundraiser.
Brittany’s Facebook post image.
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Fashion Design by Brian David Thompson
I am also revamping my successful retail clothing business Oaks and Derby after several years of operation with a grand re-opening scheduled for fall 2017. I would like to pursue my modeling career further, as my time allows. Most importantly, I continue my entrepreneurship and philanthropy via my non-profits, Preston County SPROUT and DV (domestic violence) FREE. SPROUT is a community-based non-profit that is helping rebuild and regrow commerce and tourism in Preston County, W.Va., while DV FREE is a non-profit I created to empower, educate, and provide tools to help victims of domestic violence become survivors. I also educate and advocate to society about the truths of domestic violence to ultimately eradicate this social issue through DV FREE. Back in December, the old me died the day I was attacked. A new, better version of myself has risen from the ashes. I am where I am today because of that fateful post on Facebook, and it is a GOOD place to be! Don’t stay silent about your experiences. They can help and inspire so many people. I am so blessed by grace to be me, and my experiences—both bad and good—have shaped who I am today, titanium eye plate and all! n
Photo: Angie Candell Brandon; HMUA by La Pomponnee;
HEALTH & WELLNESS
In Warnick’s Facebook post from Dec 3, she encouraged everyone to “take a good look and share this post if you know anyone or have been in an abusive relationship…people need to hear and see how real this is.” She posted the photo of herself after the incident, shown here as well, so everyone she knew could put a face with domestic violence. Rather than walking the runway to represent her friend Brian David’s brand, Brian David Designs, in the Fashion Alley fundraiser held in Pittsburgh, Pa., she was recovering from her injuries, which included a broken orbital floor. In the post she said that, “While he was beating me in the face, he told me he was going to kill me. I don’t know
how I got him to stop.” “Domestic violence knows no time limit,” Warnick went on to say. She explained the harassment and stalking she had dealt with over the time since their separation, despite restraining orders. “Now, I have to miss one of the biggest opportunities and nights with my friends because [my ex-boyfriend] couldn’t accept I wasn’t going to take his abuse anymore.” “When women tell you they can’t leave, this is why…Don’t victim blame…and don’t abandon your friends that are telling you the truth…it took THIS happening to me for people to believe me after so many years.” Warnick was lucky to survive her attack. Not everyone does. Since December, she
has made a full physical recovery and has been able to resume modeling, one of her dreams. Warnick reminds us that “we need real social change to realize that the stigmas behind domestic violence and other gender violence issues are mostly false and directly relate to our patriarchal social norms.” Victim-blaming is, unfortunately, still commonplace today. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. If you know someone who is being abused, be supportive and encouraging. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit their website www.thehotline.org for more information.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Photo: Gerard Bauer
GETTING BACK TO WHAT YOU LOVE AFTER BREAST CANCER By Cori Wamsley
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s an avid golfer, softball player, and owner of three businesses, Jean DeFilippis didn’t let a breast cancer diagnosis at age 49 slow her down. She “had to know what to do, how long it would take, and when I could get back to normal. I wanted my life back as soon as possible.” Getting her life back included a bilateral mastectomy (removal of both breasts), reconstruction, and radiation. When DeFilippis met Dr. Jim O’Toole, a Pittsburgh, Pa., plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic approaches to breast reconstruction, she knew she had found the right surgeon to handle her situation. “I wanted to look like I did before the surgery, as much as possible, and I was impressed by how he explained everything to me, as well as his story about deciding that cancer patients should be treated more like cosmetic patients.” The story she mentioned involved a cancer patient that Dr. O’Toole met early in his career when practicing in New York. That patient was upset after her mastectomy because she thought she looked like a 14-year-old boy that got attacked by a lion. And she saw that every time she looked in the mirror. Dr. O’Toole knew the approach to mastectomies had to change. “As a surgeon, we have to understand that shape and form isn’t enough. Women don’t want to see their scars every time they shower or get undressed. This is why I use incisions classically used in cosmetic breast surgery for cancer operations, to minimize visible scars on the patient.”
Photo: Gerard Bauer
Dr. Jim O’Toole and Jean DeFilippis
Jean DeFilippis leads a very active lifestyle as a survivor. Because 1 in 8 women will have breast cancer in their lifetime, DeFilippis talks openly about her experience. “I want women to know that this diagnosis isn’t the end of the world. I had a positive experience because I had a great support system and Dr. O’Toole’s help. I like to say that I just hit two speed bumps in life: one for each breast.” And women can make decisions about their treatment. “Dr. O’Toole doesn’t just tell you what to do. He talks about your options and helps you make the right decision for you. Every woman should work with a doctor who treats them that way.” Reconstruction and nipple and areola tattooing, done right in Dr. O’Toole’s office, helped DeFilippis achieve a similar shape, size, and look for her breasts, which was ideal. “When you look in the mirror, you look like you.” Another important aspect of recovery is returning to the life you love. Three years later, DeFilippis said she is “still hitting golf balls far and playing softball.” And Dr. O’Toole said he loves to hear that from his patients. “I want to empower women to decide what works best for them while adhering to the oncology principles. They need the opportunity and encouragement to choose a plan that quickly gets them back to their normal lives.” “What you’re going through is about you,” DeFilippis said, “so find a physician you’re comfortable with. You have to live with the results, so work with someone concerned about what you want.” October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and early detection gives the best odds for recovery. The Mayo Clinic recommends that women start getting mammograms at age 40 to detect abnormalities; however, regardless of your age, ask your doctor about anything that looks or feels unusual. Also, be aware of laws that ensure your rights to insurance coverage for surgeries at any point after a cancer diagnosis. Your health is in your hands, so get support and work with medical professionals you trust. Don’t let anything stop you from getting back to the life you love as soon as possible! n otooleplasticsurgery.com
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6023 Broad St. Pittsburgh, PA 15206 Located in East Liberty
412-661-0777 • PEACELOVEANDZEN.COM
SPECIAL SECTION:
PHOTOGRAPHY IN THIS SECTION: PHOTOGRAPHER FEATURE: Where the Wild Things Are
Heather Tabacchi............................................... 67
Top Shots
Dr. Shellie Hipsky................................................ 73
“Don’t shoot what it looks like. Shoot what it feels like.” —David Alan Harvey Photo: Heather Tabacchi
MODEL: Sophie STYLING: Jillian Keenist FLORAL: Carmel Vandale, Mt. Lebanon Floral
Where the Wild Things Are Photography by
Heather Tabacchi
MODEL: Sophie STYLING: Jillian Keenist FLORAL: Carmel Vandale, Mt. Lebanon Floral
MODEL: Dominic STYLING: Jillian Keenist FLORAL: Carmel Vandale, Mt. Lebanon Floral
“There should be a place where only the things you want to happen, happen.” —Maurice Sendak, ““
Where the Wild Things Are””
MODEL: Sophie
MODELS: Dominic, Sophie, and Ella STYLING: Jillian Keenist FLORAL: Carmel Vandale, Mt. Lebanon Floral
MODEL: Ella STYLING: Jillian Keenist FLORAL: Carmel Vandale, Mt. Lebanon Floral
TOP SHOTS
FROM THE FIRST ANNUAL INSPIRING LIVES MAGAZINE PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST When Inspiring Lives Magazine announced our first photography contest, we were wowed by the responses from photographers internationally and the images that were submitted. We were looking for heart in the images. Each photograph chosen tells a story or conjures thoughts and inspiration beyond the still image. We present to you the three TOP SHOTS for Inspiring Lives Magazine’s inaugural photography contest.
LUCIA CINTRA
EMMAI ALAQUIVA
LISA SELIGMAN
“Of course, there will always be those who look only at technique, who ask ‘how,’ while others of a more curious nature will ask ‘why.’ Personally, I have always preferred inspiration to information.” —Man Ray (1890–1976), Fashion and Portrait Photographer
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PORTRAITURE LISA SELIGMAN | LISASELIGMAN.COM
Model: Divauna Taravella
BRIDAL/FASHION LUCIA CINTRA | LUCIACINTRA.COM
INSPIRATION EMMAI ALAQUIVA | YAMOMZHOUSE.COM
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TUESDAY- FRIDAY 11-7 | SATURDAY 11-8
L E E S A K A S S L E R D E S I G N S .C O M
FASHION & BEAUTY IN THIS SECTION: DESIGNER PROFILE: Portia Brady
Cori Wamsley............................................................................. 81
Style Week Pittsburgh 2017
Dr. Shellie Hipsky....................................................................... 86
Modern Makeup Maven
Cori Wamsley............................................................................. 89
Society Spotlight....................................................................... 90 Sustainable Chic at the Ecolution Fashion Show
Samantha Barna........................................................................ 93
Fall 2017: A Passport Through the Decades
Teri Lynn Woodruff..................................................................... 94
Just Jackie: Reflect with Elegance
Jackie Capatolla........................................................................ 97
“Fashion is what you’re offered four times a year by designers. And style is what you choose.” —Lauren Hutton
Photo: Heather Tabacchi
Model: Joanna Wentling
MODEL: Evita Scoccia
DESIGNER PROFILE
PORTIA BRADY
Theodora James Collection: Timeless Fashion Tailored to be as Unique as the Woman Wearing It by Cori Wamsley | Photography by James Ray | HMUA by Kourtney Leech and Dr. Shellie Hipsky | Hair by Sindel Taylor and Eva Dixon
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esigner Portia Brady, like many of us, began dreaming big as a child. She doodled dresses when she was younger, sketching everything from human versions of outfits she saw in Disney movies to catwalk dresses, as well as some of her own creations. As a teenager, though, she said that she “had this erroneous idea that, to be successful in life, you had to be in a ‘serious’ field, and so I put fashion aside and went to medical school.” Clearly, this wasn’t her ultimate path, but why give up on a career in medicine? “I was giving up on my creative side, and I was left unfulfilled. When I finally found the courage to chase what I loved rather than what I thought would make me successful is when I actually began to shine.” When Brady finally decided to pursue fashion, she started out by asking friends to model her fashion collection, slowly working in pieces she designed. She was self-taught, which was daunting at first. Then she got her first big client. “I was doing tweed capelets and the odd formal dress when I was asked to make a custom gown for a Grammy attendee. That was a whirlwind crazy experience, but I loved it so much that it took me into formalwear, and then bridal wear.” As Brady’s business grew, she considered going back to school to pick up skills she may be missing in fashion, but “when I realized I was too busy running my fashion business to go train, I figured there must be something about my approach that my clients like, so I kept at it!” And if the clients keep coming, why not keep designing? As with any art, though, progression in your career means taking risks, learning, and growing. Brady commented on some of her early designs, saying that, “Some of the first bridal gowns I designed remain favorites (for me and clients), but others I look back on and cringe!” She suggested, though, that “we can all lose sight of our own good points when we compare to others, so I try to keep perspective and just do the best version of my work that I can.” After months of working on a custom piece for a client— from table to dress form—Brady said that nothing thrills her like hearing back from the client and seeing her in that dress. “I love to see the finished look and hear how great she felt in it.” Designing dresses with a small operation like Brady’s has given her “a closer connection to each dress and each client,” making their compliments mean that much more to her. Brady believes that wedding dresses hold so much “significance to a woman, and it should therefore reflect who she
is.” They should be as unique as the woman wearing them, so she prides herself in creating something special that reflects the woman’s personality. Her website states that “True style is eternal and demands quality products that are made to fit,” and her process reflects that ideal, avoiding trends and focusing on inspiration from “vintage sources, or nature—things that are more timeless and classic, so they don’t look dated quickly.” As such, each collection she designs evokes a vibe unique to what inspired it. For example, “my 2017 summer collection is very colorful and bohemian and casual, but my 2017 winter collection that I’m working on right now is very dark and gothic and much more edgy.” “Since the weather is really bleak and damp and cold right now, I’m seeing lots of nature’s ‘ugly’ side—tangled bare branches, damp moss, weeds and ivy, and I’m actually loving it, which is taking our winter collection down this hauntingly beautiful gothic path.” Like many creatives, Brady cites time away from her work as a refreshing way to encourage her vision. A morning hike— where she so recently contemplated all that winter brings— typically helps her create a design or two, so she follows the hike with sketching. Though she said that many of the designs never make it past the sketching stage, everything she draws helps her see what fits together, especially if she’s working on a specific collection. Her matchless designs draw a variety of clientele, who vary by age and lifestyle and come from all over the world. Women seek her out for classic and destination weddings, as well as vow renewal. Clients may be surprised by her ability to finish a dress so quickly, and she says, “it’s always such a privilege to make it happen for them when they fear their only option is off-the-rack.” Flexibility of design and attention to the client’s personality and desires allow Brady to create dresses that can incorporate a client’s ideas, mimic a favorite dress they show her, or work from very little information at all. “I have some really creative clients who bring their own sketches and ideas to me, and they have every detail planned, but they just don’t know how to actually make the garment! And on the other end of the spectrum, some want ‘something,’ but they’re not sure what yet, so we explore fabric options,
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MODEL: Dr. Erin Michal
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Model: Divauna Taravella
MODEL: Cora T. Ray
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MODEL: Dr. Michele Langbein
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MODEL: Soigné Legacy
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STYLE WEEK PITTSBURGH 2017 by Dr. Shellie Hipsky | Photography by Mary Beth Kratsas In 2013, Wadria Taylor recognized the need for a platform to showcase cool local boutiques, venues, and talent, so she created Style Week Pittsburgh. It has grown over the last five years into a citywide, multi-day event that showcases and promotes fashion, art, music, and entrepreneurship. The atmosphere is inclusive, collaborative, and engaging. Each event provides the opportunity for attendees to highlight their own work while engaging with new people and expanding their networks. With the 2017 theme of “Style Meets Innovation,� Style Week Pittsburgh connected with an even larger group of entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators. Events included a designer fashion show, the Style Awards (which recognizes individuals in varying fields), a networking brunch, and a maker marketplace. Style Week Pittsburgh highlighted a diverse group of artists and entrepreneurs doing creative work.
Stephanie Renee Moye, Nadia Bazmore, Lana Neumeyer, Wadria Taylor, Gabriell Walker, Josy Nkuissi, Elaine Healy, Miyah Knight
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STYLE WEEK PITTSBURGH 2017
Philip Pelusi, Jennifer Pelusi, Marian McCann
Wadria Taylor, Valeria Green
Philip Pelusi Stylists
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FASHION & BEAUTY
MODERN MAKEUP MAVEN
April Ray, Kourtney Leech, Cori Wamsley, and Kavonna Anderson
Photo: Mary Lou Smith
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akeup artist Kourtney Leech has found her niche with custom foundations and mineral powders mixed to match your specific skin tone. Why is a perfect match so important? “No one wants to look like they are wearing makeup,” Leech said. “Finding the perfect foundation can be a struggle, especially for those with unique skin tones.” Customization allows women to wear foundation that smoothly transitions to their natural skin without an obvious line. Many makeup brands only offer a handful of color choices, leaving women frustrated by the too yellow, too pink, too light, too dark, too shiny…you get the idea. But Leech’s ability to custom mix a Motives Cosmetics liquid or mineral powder foundation makes her a rarity among makeup artists in the Pittsburgh, Pa., area. “Not only can I match my client’s skin tone,” Leech added, “but I can also add products to cater to her skincare needs and adjust the finish and texture of the foundation.” With options for 31 bases, toners, modifiers, and botanical additives—and that’s just the foundation kit—she has no trouble coordinating color with client-specific skincare. Her clients are guaranteed to love their $45 foundation or powder, which can last from 4 months to a year, depending on how often it is worn. So what else can Leech customize? “Basically if you can think it, I can make it,” she said. Eyeshadows, blushes, and much more. “I have a full recipe book.” And what Leech cooks up always results in a stunning, polished look that makes her clients glow. When she meets a client, Leech asks a list of detailed questions about the look she desires, rather than just doing what she thinks is best. Listening is a huge part of making her clients happy. As she works with them, she educates women on how to care for their skin and wear makeup so it’s a simple process they can duplicate. Leech emphasized that skincare is important, at every age, so she focuses on four main steps for skincare: cleansing, toning, treating, and moisturizing. With access to five healthy
Leech, with Kavonna Anderson skincare lines, Leech can recommend something designed for each client’s specific skin type, for every step of the process. “Quality, healthy products to put on our bodies are worth the investment,” Leech said. “We only have this body once!” To book a private or group consultation for custom foundations or powders at Leech’s studio in Canonsburg, Pa., contact her at kourtneyleech@gmail.com or (412) 209-8641. Follow her journey, and learn makeup tips and tricks and the latest products and trends by following her on Facebook (Kourtney Leech) or Instagram (@makeupbykourtney). Visit her website at www.shop.com/makeupbykourtney. n
HELPING OTHERS SEE THEIR BEAUTY
When she was 13 and curious about how to apply eyeliner, a search on YouTube showed Kourtney Leech a world of beauty gurus. She learned from these experts over the next five years, and when she was only 18, she started Makeup
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Photo: Mary Lou Smith
By Cori Wamsley
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SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT FIERCE THE RUNWAY
Model: Josy Nkuissi, Designer: Michael Anthony
Show producer, Jamyce Patterson, of PGH Style & GLAM..
Photo: Bruce Cowart Photography
Photo: Lindsay B. Garvin
Model: Gabriell Walker, Designer: Shawna Solomon
Photo: Lindsay B. Garvin
Model: Dana Quinn, Designer: Michael Anthony
Photo: Lindsay B. Garvin
Fashions from five local Pittsburgh designers graced the runway at the Fierce the Runway Fashion Showcase held on July 30, 2017. PGH Style & GLAM were the presenters of the event.
UNDRESSED AT THE FRICK MUSEUM: A SNEAK PEEK On Sept 6th, The Frick Museum Grable Visitor Center hosted 100 of Pittsburgh’s most influential people—including media, bloggers, and fashion industry insiders—for a preview of the upcoming exhibit, Undressed: A History of Fashion in Underwear. The exhibit will open on Thursday, October 19, 2017.
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Photo: Gerald Bauer Photo: Jen Rogers
Tonya Edinger of Weddings & Events of Pittsburgh and Amber Hogan of The Frick Museum.
Photo: Jen Rogers
Caption
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Guests at the event were given details of the Frick Museum’s 5-year-plan to retain and expand its relevance in the community.
Photo: Jen Rogers
Industry experts were given a preview of historic undergarments from the upcoming exhibit, displayed in specially designed protective enclosures.
MODEL AURA COPELAND’S SPARKLE FOR HAITI EVENT DAZZLED NYC More than 300 guests twinkled for the black tie charity event Sparkle for Haiti on September 16th. The founder—model and shoe designer Aura Copeland—aimed to end New York’s fashion week both with elegance and a noble purpose. Held at a private venue on the Lower East Side of New York City, Sparkle for Haiti emphasized the need for better educational opportunities for Haitian orphans to thrive. Currently, 300 children living in 17 orphanages in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, are enrolled in CREATE—an arts, design, dance, and musical program that provides them with a better set of cognitive skills and opportunities. Les Couleurs gives 100% of their donations to the arts education program CREATE in Haiti to inspire, educate and empower children’s overall cognitive development. The children they help come from underprivileged backgrounds and have very few educational opportunities. CREATE gives these children the tools to unleash their creative energy, make them feel empowered and appreciated, and learn skills that could create artistic opportunities or careers for them. To learn more about Les Couleurs Charity or to donate, go to lescouleursnyc.org.
Anita Covic
Miss Earth, Andreia Gibau, Aura Copeland, and Lina Maya
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Photo: Sparkle for Haiti
Aura Copeland, Antoine Verglas, and Anita Covic
Photo: Sparkle for Haiti
“When I was approached by Aura to join this noble quest to enable a better life for the children of Haiti, I was beyond impressed by the amount of passion and love she has for these children. We spoke about her Haiti experience, and she painted a vivid picture full of love and contradictions: beauty and poverty, laughter and tears, richness of the spirit and hunger in their stomachs. But most importantly, she told me about her sadness when she discovered the huge amount of captive creativity and potential in those children. They could give so much to the world if they just had a chance,” Anita Covic, Guest of Honor, said.
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Photo: Ronda Zegarelli
Sustainable Chic at the Ecolution Fashion Show By Samantha Barna
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hen you get dressed each morning, are you aware of the impact that your fashion choices have on the environment? In the age of ‘fast fashion’ garments are produced and sold at inexpensive prices, and trends come in and out of vogue faster than ever before. This voracious appetite for newer, better, and cheaper clothing is taking a toll on the environment. An abundance of factories competing to produce garments cheaply has caused the fashion industry to be the second largest contributor of carbon dioxide to our atmosphere, second only to the oil industry. And the environmental impact doesn’t stop there, according to the U.S. EPA, the United States produced 16.22 million tons of textile waste in 2014, only 2.62 million tons of which were recycled. Pittsburgh Earth Day (Pittsburgh, Pa.) addressed the growing problem of sustainability in the fashion industry head-on with its annual Ecolution Fashion Show held Thursday, April 20th at the Fairmont Hotel. Designers were challenged to utilize unconventional recycled and reused materials to create sustainable—and stunning—fashions. These designers included Domitille Angoulvant, Michael Anthony, Kat Belskey, Terry Boyd, Brandon Darreff, Katy DeMENT, Faith-n-Khaos, Lessa Kassler, Keith Kelly, Becki
Liu, Carol Luckner, Bradford Mumpower, Lana Neumeyer, RubyDawn Designs, Karen Page & Thomas Higgs, David Pohl, Beth Shari, and Alana Yoffee. The show’s theme “Planets—Preserving the Wonders of the Universe” clearly inspired participating designers to push the boundaries of their creativity to fashion celestial-inspired designs. Materials such as discarded wigs, garbage bags, soda can tabs, window screens, coffee bags, construction blueprints, and even takeout containers were expertly manipulated into avant-garde designs. Although the garments were eye-catching on the runway, a closer inspection post-show revealed the true extent of the hard work put into each piece, many of which took months to create. At the conclusion of the show, four winners were chosen based on the innovativeness, sustainability, and beauty of their designs: Terry Boyd, Carol Luckner, Bradford Mumpower, and Alana Rachel Yoffee. Attendees were in high spirits thanks to expert event curation from Richard Parsakian, which included dancing from the Staycee Pearl Dance Project, a performance by Thea Trix, and a film montage including the work of western Pennsylvania’s own Rachel Carson. n
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FALL 2017: A PASSPORT THROUGH THE DECADES Styled by Teri Lynn Woodruff, Creative Transformations • Photos by Ryan Smas, B Squared Photo Fashion is one again taking another look at trends from the past. The designer runways presented viewers with a journey through time highlighting vintage inspired looks. Color and texture are a focus, from rich velvets and faux fur, to fun floral and plaid prints reminiscent of the 1970’s. Sparkling glitz is still being used in both casual and eveningwear. Be sure to look out for the return of wide belts, broad shouldered jackets and power suits from the 1990’s, as well as high Victorian style collars. Estate sale jewelry looks, fringed accessories and western detailing are all the rage. Red in varying shades has been declared the hot hue for the 2017 Fall season. 1. VINCE CAMUTO
6. INC. INTERNATIONAL CONCEPTS
2. CLINIQUE
7. PATRICIA NASH
Shelbin III Ankle Strap Peep Toe in Red Suede $129 (www.nordstrom.com) Long Last Lipstick in Matte Crimson $17.50 (www.clinique.com)
3. CLINIQUE
Eye & Cheek Trio in Strawberry Fudge and Smoldering Plum $32.50 (www.clinique.com)
4. GOORIN BROS. HAT SHOP
1335 Minna Cloche Style Woven Hat $60 (www.goorin.com)
Asymmetrical Stretch Belt in Tobacco $34.50; Metallic Woven Belt in Cognac & Silver $34.50 (www.macys.com) Turquoise Cavo Floral Embossed Scalloped Tote $199 (www.patricianashdesigns.com)
8. AMERICAN RAG
Dawnn Embroidered Cowboy Boots in Chocolate $85 (www.macys.com)
9. KAT VON D
Sinner Eau De Parfum $85 (www.katvondbeauty.com)
5. PANACEA
Green Agate Earring, Bracelet and Necklace Set $78 (www.dillards.com)
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Photo: Brian Hanna/Photos On Call
JUST JACKIE Reflect with Elegance By Jackie Capatolla
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hat do you see when you look at yourself in a mirror or a window? The reflection we see is an image of who we are. What is reflecting back to you? Are you happy with what you see? Reflection is an expression, time to reflect, time to ponder, time to observe who we are as individuals and how we see ourselves. Sometimes we may love what we see as the energy is diverted back to us. Other times, our subconscious may not like what we see. The good news is we have a choice to transform the past, present, and future with love, peace, and respect as we look into the mirror and absolutely love what we see. Something we are proud of. Something that gives us confidence. Then we can say, “Yes this is me, and I love myself.” Just think how successful you could be if you truly loved what you saw beaming back at you. The light is shining bright, and you feel so amazing that the way you represent yourself is contagious, and everyone observes the glow within you. A reflection can be very powerful, for it gives us the ability to change who we are and make ourselves the best we can be. It makes us accountable deep down inside of us. We can be a better person if we love and respect ourselves. Do you admire yourself? If not, take another look. Be the energy you want to attract. Don’t look back; go forward, and be the image you want to see. My model is an inspiration of hope and love. As she looks into the window, she sees a reflection of elegance and grace. She believes in herself with confidence and strength. For this look, I wanted to capture the beauty within.
GET THE LOOK Hairstyle: This style represents the past, present, and future, three different textures of styles within one. As we go through our lives, we live, we grow, and we learn. This style is a reminder of where we have been, where we are now, and where we are going. I wanted to accessories the hairstyle with pearls, beads, and ribbon to show that we can be different. We can add something fun into our lives and make it work. Makeup: Bold and beautiful makeup and glowing skin. • Eye: Smoke it Out with bronze accents and smudge liner. • Lips: Just Jackie Grand Canyon • Brows: Brush on in Deep Chestnut
Model: Jenny Lou Photography: Ray Feather Photography Fashions: Jennifer Mendicino, Sottile Fashions Hair and makeup: Jackie Capatolla, Jacqueline’s House of Beauty Salon and Spa
Fashions: Two-piece pant suit, halter top. This look is a blend of texture and patterns. Feel sleek and on fleek in this black and white must-have for the season. Express yourself. Surround yourself with people who reflect who you are and who you want to be. Desire to be the very best within yourself. When you look in the mirror, love what you see. Love who you are and who you are becoming. Reflect with elegance! Until next time, live your dreams! n
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DARIETH CHISOLM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 Bullying on the playground hurt because people were calling you names. Well, now on the Internet, you know, they’re typing in all kinds of offensive statements and mistruths. Part of what I hope to do with 50 Shades of Silence is to really encourage social responsibility around posting, sharing, and texting and encourage parents to help their children be more responsible and not include themselves in certain behavior or to report things. We have to understand the need of being socially responsible. There are so many reporting tools, so when you do see something that clearly shouldn’t be on the Internet, report it. Everyone has to be more proactive in this sense, but if you’re not going to report it, then at least don’t share it and don’t add to it. The other thing I will share, in my case, my photos were taken against my will. These weren’t photos that I took and sent. This also happens to people that share certain text messages or photos in their relationship because they trust the person. I would encourage people to not share pictures that they wouldn’t want to be seen online, even when in a relationship. Dr. Shellie: Wow. This has been eye opening and intriguing, and I think it is really going to help my audience if they
come across this type of thing in their own lives, is there a place that you have found that people should contact if they become a victim of this type of a situation? Chisolm: On our website, 50shadesofsilence.com, we have a long list of support. It ranges from a 1 800 numbers that people can call 24/7 to get assistance and support, to a group of pro bono attorneys, to just understanding your rights, too, if you’re interested in being an advocate or supporting someone else. Dr. Shellie: Excellent. Well, Darieth, thank you so much for your candor and your authenticity. Chisolm: I realize that I could have chosen not to talk about this. I could have decided that I could deal with this and move past it. Yet, what became very clear is that I had to use my voice and my talent and my resources to seek justice for others, and to put a voice on something that I know so many people remain silent around. But I also want to give dignity to those people who have felt so isolated by this. 50 Shades of Silence will educate and bring awareness. I’m clear in my heart that my story, that my voice, is intended for such a time as now. n EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 So how can you help? The non-profit is always looking for companies to adopt
schools and people to run school supply drives or volunteer. Just think about the power in something as simple as a pencil…and people who care. For more information, contact Laura Carlson at laura@theeducationpartnership.org , or visit the website at theeducationpartnership.org n VALERIE PLAME CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 even advancement. So you keep inspiring generation after generation of young women to not be afraid. This is a rare environment (here at CMU) where everyone is excited talking about everything in the STEM field, but that’s not typical. Let’s face it.” That’s where Plame feels building a tribe, especially one of a global sisterhood, is so vital. “I moved around every two years for my CIA career, so I could never really develop [that sisterhood]. Now I do have that, and it is absolutely crucial. Women who are ambitious and who want to make some positive change in the world, you have to find each other and stick together and support each other!” Plame said that building a sisterhood and finding your tribe is “everything! You ask any seasoned woman, and she will say, ‘I couldn’t have done this without other women.’” n
BETTER LEADERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 Research has demonstrated that women are indeed better leaders. I have no doubt you have the ability to the lead the masses. Or if you already lead the masses, be humble, but own it; for you have arrived. The legacy you create is the reflection of your leadership. Here is to you and to better leadership! n PORTIA BRADY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 83 shapes, necklines, sleeve types, etc., until we find what is perfect for them or their bridal party.” Some of the ladies just show her a picture. They have “fallen in love with the idea of that dress, so we have to make that happen.” No matter what Brady has to work with, she focuses on creating the perfect dress for her clients, striving to keep the process as stress-free as possible. She wants them to walk away with something you can’t find in a store, something perfect for their specific event, their body, and what they dream of wearing. “That has always been at the heart of my designs. I just love to be able to make a dream come true for a woman who is at the end of her tether!” Brady’s ambition and hard work have led her to build her own unique fashion brand, one that offers clients the opportunity to look and feel beautiful and find
exactly what they are looking for, even if they don’t know what that is. What would she tell someone else hoping to achieve their own design dreams? “If you dream of it, do it. I won’t say that its always easy, and you may go years before you find your design legs, but if you love what you do, and you get to wake up every day and enjoy work, then that is true success.” To view some of Brady’s exquisite designs, please visit her Etsy shop at www.etsy.com/shop/TheodoraJames. Her website is www.theodorajames.com. n KOURTNEY LEECH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 89 by Kourtney. She credits her family, especially her grandmother, for cultivating in her everything she needed to achieve her goal. “My grandmother [photographer Mary Lou Smith] taught me to be creative,” Leech said, “and my family always encouraged me to do what made me most happy.” “I was bullied in high-school,” Leech said, “and some days, getting lost in applying makeup was the only thing that made me feel beautiful.” This drove her to build women’s and girls’ self-esteem by helping them feel beautiful and confident with makeup.
Leech didn’t know that she was ready to start a business till the perfect opportunity arose. When she was a high school senior in early 2014, she shadowed a professional makeup artist at a photoshoot. After doing the majority of the models’ makeup that day, she suddenly had a professional portfolio. Some may call this “luck,” but Leech said, “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity, and no opportunity comes twice.” She was definitely ready. At 18, she began working for Geno Levi Hair Salon in Pittsburgh, Pa., as a shampoo girl and was quickly promoted to lead makeup artist. Today, Leech works with women and girls for their everyday looks, as well as looks for bridal, prom, and modeling occasions. She loves the transformation that makeup allows women and “how they light up when they feel beautiful and glamorous!” For those who dream of becoming a makeup artist, Leech encourages them to reach out to her. “I love meeting aspiring artists and educating them on how to become a business woman and run a successful, profitable makeup business.” Because she wishes she had training available when she started, Leech offers detailed, hands-on quarterly trainings with Motives Cosmetics, as well as classes in her beauty studio. n
TURNINGS
“SUMMER ENDS, AND AUTUMN COMES, AND HE WHO WOULD HAVE IT OTHERWISE WOULD HAVE HIGH TIDE ALWAYS AND A FULL MOON EVERY NIGHT.” — HAL BORLAND
PHOTO: HEATHER TABACCHI
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