P.O.W.E.R. Magazine Winter 2019

www.powerwoe.com

2019 WINTER ISSUE

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loria Allred is a founding partner of the law firm Allred, Maroko & Goldberg (AM&G).

Her firm handles more women’s rights cases than any other private law firm in the nation and has won hundreds of millions of dollars for victims. Over the course of her 42-year legal career, Gloria has won countless honors for her pioneering legal work on behalf of women’s rights and rights for minorities.

Gloria is a three-time Emmy nominee for her commentaries on KABC television in Los Angeles. Her nationally syndicated television show “We the People, with Gloria Allred” was also nominated in 2012 for a Daytime Emmy Award.

In January 2014, Gloria received the Lifetime Achievement Award from The National Trial Lawyers for her trailblazing and pioneering role in combatting injustices and winning new rights, especially for women and minorities. She was honored at the 2016 International Women’s Forum (IWF) World Leadership Conference with the 2016 IWF Women Who Make a Difference Award. President Obama has introduced Gloria as “one of the best attorneys in the country.”

In 2017, Netflix announced “Seeing Allred,” an original documentary about Gloria and her battles for justice which launched globally on Netflix in February 2018 after its world premiere in the U.S. Documentary Competition at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival. In February 2018, Gloria received the Lenore Kramer Award for Excellence from the Women’s Caucus of the New York State Trial Lawyers Association, and in July 2018, she was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Organization for Women (NOW) for her enduring commitment to fighting injustices against women.

Gloria is the author of “Fight Back and Win: My Thirty-Year Fight Against Injustice-- And How You Can Win Your Own Battles.”

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Founding Partner Allred, Maroko & Goldberg (AM&G)

Allred and Patty Hearst, 1979

Allred at a press conference with California Gov. Jerry Brown, 1977

GLORIA ALLRED

Who or what inspired you to become an attorney?

I wanted to seek justice.

You are known for being the best attorney in the country. What do you attribute your success to?

Speaking truth to power. Preparation and strong advocacy. Teamwork with outstanding attorneys in my law firm.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you have faced being a female attorney?

In the beginning of my career, sexism and sexual stereotyping. However, later in my career and in recent decades I do not feel that I have faced obstacles because I am a female attorney.

What advice would you give to women who want to begin a career in law?

Become advocates for women’s rights. Fight for vic-

tims of sexual harassment, rape and child sexual abuse and for women who have been discriminated against because of their gender. There is a great need for attorneys in this field and there is also a need for women attorneys to represent women in the area of family law.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

An empowered woman is a woman who has the ability, the desire, the opportunity, the power and the courage to act and make decisions which will have an important impact on her and on others.

You are an attorney, author, speaker, and mother.

How do you balance it all?

I do not pretend to have a balanced life. I work during the day, nights, weekends and holidays.

I love my work and I feel blessed to do it. www.amglaw.com

President Reagan greets recipient Allred at President’s Volunteer Action Award Luncheon, 1986.

Allred leaps for joy in 1988 after becoming the first female member of Friars Club.

She sued the club to join.

Allred co-hosted a radio talk show in Los Angeles on KABC Talk Radio for 14 years.

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President and Owner | Fortunoff Fine Jewelry

sther Fortunoff is the president and owner of Fortunoff Fine Jewelry. As a granddaughter of the founders of the Fortunoff retail chain, she grew up in the family business, along with three generations of her family.

They transformed Fortunoff into a New York institution and a go-to store for millions looking to purchase fine jewelry, which is Esther’s specialty.

After a purchase of the company by two private equity firms ended, the Fortunoffs gained back ownership of their name, and Esther began to plan for the reintroduction of Fortunoff Fine Jewelry.

In 2010, she put FortunoffJewelry.com on the web, and in 2014, she opened the Fortunoff Fine Jewelry boutique on Old Country Road in Westbury, at the east end of The Mall at the Source, close to where the previous Fortunoff department store had been since 1964.

Esther continues in her role as a buyer of precious gemstones, diamonds and pearls. She also contracts for the design and manufacture of the proprietary jewelry collections. She makes it a point to

identify and work with little-known local and women designers.

“I am delighted to be carrying on the long-storied tradition of my family,” says Esther. “Generations of jewelry expertise means fabulous quality at prices that just make sense. ‘Real values’ have always been the Fortunoff promise and I am proud to say that promise still holds true. My goal is to exceed a customer’s expectations in selection, quality, design, and service, and to earn my customer’s trust and loyalty.”

Esther has been inducted into “National Jeweler” magazine’s “Retailer Hall of Fame,” and has been awarded the “Retailer of the Year” Award of Excellence from the Women’s Jewelry Association.

Her board service spans both the jewelry industry and community. Within the jewelry industry, she has served on the boards of Jewelers of America, the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, and the Natural Color Diamond Association.

Locally, she serves on the boards of the Long Island Association, where she is active in the Women’s Collaborative; The Safe Center LI, which restores hope to victims of abuse; and Mabou Mines, a legendary New York City-based avant-garde theater company.

Esther Fortunoff How did you get started in your field/industry?

I grew up in the Fortunoff business where I worked as a teen. After a brief foray into archeology, I found that I wanted to come back to the family business. I guess jewelry was in my blood.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The diamond business is very male dominated, but I was determined to be a diamond buyer. I had to learn to be a tough negotiator, and even when I did, I wasn’t always taken seriously. It was a real challenge.

Who was your mentor? Who influenced you the most?

My father taught me how important it was to give back and give credit to others. My first real “boss,” Stan Ulick, taught me how to interact with others at work as a person – not just as a Fortunoff executive.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

My working mother was my best role model. She always brought work home, so she could be present with us. I did the same – it’s better to be with your family for special moments, even if you have to duck away to read reports.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

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Men are still primarily in charge in so many industries.

Navigating how to interact with them is still the biggest challenge women face. How do you strike the right tone, acknowledging your experiences as a woman, while still communicating in a man’s world?

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

Learn the technical aspects of your craft, such as a thorough knowledge of gemology and jewelry terms. Know your business’s numbers – especially if you hope to move up in management. Talk to people in other businesses. Don’t become narrow-minded.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

You take control of your own life. If a situation is untenable, you find another way to work or live. If you’re being mistreated, you figure out how to correct the situation. Use your network of mentors to help. It isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.

Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by.

I work hard to always give back to those who have helped me and to my larger community. Such giving keeps me humble. I know how fortunate I am, and I feel a strong sense of duty to help others who haven’t been as fortunate. www.fortunoffjewelry.com

“I’ve always had a passion for beautiful jewelry.”

– Esther Fortunoff

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

TJA PUBLISHING, LLC

PRESIDENT AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tonia DeCosimo DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Syndi Reibman SENIOR EDITOR Susan Koop EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Ellen Gold PUBLIC RELATIONS Alison Swerdloff MEDIA DIRECTOR Jeremy Felber WEB DESIGNER & IT Chris Ziminski CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cris Bell EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS Nicole Crumb Joan Leslie Heller ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Julia Abreu Shari Brozinsky Helene Kaye Sari Meyer Renee Rosenfeld Michele Siemion Jaqueline Winters Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized/P.O.W.E.R. magazine is published quarterly by TJA Publishing, LLC. All biographical information and photographs submitted by members, as well as questions and answers may be altered as necessary to fit our format. While every effort has been made to ensure that information is correct, errors may occur.

There is no guarantee of accuracy, timeliness, and completeness. We are not responsible for other’s opinions or views as expressed herein. P.O.W.E.R. magazine does not assume any responsibility for unsolicited materials. Copyright 2019 by P.O.W.E.R. magazine. All rights reserved. Content may not be reprinted or reproduced without permission from P.O.W.E.R. magazine.

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W

ow, 2019!! Time certainly flies when you are a woman juggling it all.

For the past month, you have probably heard everyone and their mother talking about what their New Year’s resolutions are going to be: lose those excess holiday pounds, take a leap and make that career change… you know the drill. However, while we all have the best intentions, more than 80% of New Year’s resolutions are scrapped within a few months’ time. What can we do to make the odds of success better?

I consider myself to be a highly motivated, goal-oriented person.

Over the years though, I’ve realized that trying to pull off ten or more New Year’s resolutions is simply not realistic. I end up getting so overwhelmed that I give up on all ten. So I interviewed and conferred with other successful women, and I decided to prioritize and try to tackle three resolutions for January 2019.

Talk

TONIA’S

Perhaps you’ve heard of “Christmas in July.” If you are a goal-setter like me, why not set three more resolutions halfway through the year as well. Then by the time 2020 rolls around, you will have completed six resolutions, instead of abandoning ten.

In interviewing P.O.W.E.R. members, I have been inspired and motivated by how many successful women are able to set and achieve their resolutions. Sometimes we achieve things that we didn’t even know we wanted. They just happen through our efforts or through the help and mentorship of others. In this issue, the women we showcase reflect how both resolutions and goals can be achieved through hard work and perseverance.

Speaking of goals, we have some extremely P.O.W.E.R.ful women in this issue who have definitely reached the top of their game. Take Bobbi Brown, who created an empire and revolutionized the makeup industry by introducing a natural color line during a time when bright colors were the rage. Gloria Allred focused her law practice on women’s issues and has become one of the most powerful advocates for women’s rights. Erin Oprea, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, took her awareness of physical fitness and nutrition and became a fitness trainer to the stars. Under Audra Moran’s leadership, the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Alliance (OCRSA) has awarded the most research funding in its history and has passed the $100 million mark in funds raised for ovarian cancer research. These powerhouses are just a few of the women we showcase in this issue who exemplify how resolutions and goals can be achieved. Let them inspire you to set the bar high and motivate you to achieve those dreams. 2019 can be your year to shine!

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Ellen Sirot

Top Hand Model/Founder SIROT™

fter graduating from Barnard College, Ellen Sirot felt that her hands and feet were being brutalized while working as a professional dancer and waitress when she accidentally stumbled upon the world of “parts” modeling. Her first modeling stint was as a leg and foot model. She soon realized that the busiest parts in the business were hands. The only problem was that her agent didn’t think hers were a winning pair. Determined to become a hand supermodel, Ellen began a rigorous hand makeover effort. She started researching the most beneficial beauty products and their ingredients available, all the while developing a system for how to approach hand care.

As a result of her research and persistence, she singlehandedly and literally was able to do a personal hand makeover and create her picture-perfect hands. Since then, Ellen has been booking job after job with no signs of slowing down. With a career span of over 30 years, Ellen’s hands are regularly used as a “hand-in” for models and actresses in their twenties.

Continuing her passion for the best age-defying products, Ellen carefully experimented for years to find how to keep her hands soft, ageless and healthy. She has created easy hand-saving tricks to allow her to be a working mom while keeping her hands looking and feeling their best. To find what worked best on the delicate skin of the hands, Ellen worked with different formulations and ingredients. Eventually this passion and knowledge led to Ellen founding SIROT™, her clinically-proven line of beauty products dedicated to the specific anti-aging needs of the hands and nails.

Once Ellen saw the amazing results she had on her hands with SIROT™ and its proprietary formulations, she knew she needed to expand and enlarge the line to include incredible, anti-aging products specifically created for the face, neck, body and of course hands/nails!

SIROT™ is currently sold exclusively on Evine, where Ellen is a regular guest presenter.

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You are a successful hand model, founder of SIROT™ Skincare and mother. How do you juggle it all successfully?

I am a master juggler – like most women! I have found that compartmentalizing works very well for me – seeing what I need to do most immediately and giving my pure focus to that situation. As an entrepreneur I often work late into the night or in the early morning. When I began my first business, I felt like I did not sleep for five years! But, I always want my daughter to feel like my #1 priority – even if that means putting other things on the back burner for a few hours.

What can you tell us about your SIROT™ line? What are the benefits of the ingredients you use and how are they different from other lines on the market today?

SIROT™ was formulated based on my needs as a hand/body model needing to keep all of my parts looking soft, healthy and ageless. I have a proprietary, patent-pending technology based on Silicium which is a mineral that supports the strength, structure and stability of the skin giving the skin a look of bouncy, youthful, dewiness.

What advice would you give to women trying to launch their own product line?

My best piece of advice is to try to start small with prototypes or small batches so you don’t get into a situation where you have huge debt prior to proof of concept and feasibility.

Find a mentor who has been through the process in your industry to try to help you avoid pitfalls that you may not be aware of. Ask for help and connections from everyone you know to see if you can shortcut your journey. www.sirotskin.com

Alexis Rodriguez Alvich Founder | Harper Grey Consulting

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lexis Rodriguez Alvich is the founder of Harper Grey Consulting, an integrated marketing communications consultancy servicing the beauty, fashion and lifestyle industries. She specializes in creating holistic breakthrough consumer marketing programs and PR campaigns amplified across high priority brand channels and consumer touch points to deliver a significant ROI. Alexis has more than 17 years experience in public relations and brand development within the beauty and fashion industries combined. She began her career with DNA Public Relations. Two years later, she joined a global brand team at Ketchum Public Relations. Alexis left Ketchum in 2002 to join Tractenberg & Co. where she worked with a number of wellknown beauty brands including Stila, Sephora, MD Skincare, and Kate Spade Beauty.

In 2003, Alexis was hired as the in-house PR manager to launch Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) Beauty. Two years later, she was promoted to director of public relations, overseeing global communications in 12 countries including the U.S.A., UK, Italy, France, China, and Russia. After five years at DVF, Alexis moved in-house to LVMH, Inc. to oversee PR in North America for Parfums Givenchy and Pucci Fragrances.

For Givenchy, she worked directly with “Givenchy Play” spokesperson Justin Timberlake and his team to secure the most press the brand has ever garnered at launch.

Most recently, Alexis served as the executive director of public relations for Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. In her first two years on the job, she helped implement a comprehensive social media strategy, resulting in a 177% increase of Facebook fans and a 243% increase of Twitter followers in one year. She was also responsible for the brand’s most successful social/digital campaign to date, #LongWearLifeProof. Alexis commissioned female athletes to create UGC doing their sports while wearing Bobbi Brown Long-Wear makeup, resulting in 140 million+ press impressions, 1.3 MM video views, and 200% ROI based on online sales alone.

Alexis has spent many years developing relationships with key beauty, fashion and lifestyle editors and stylists. When not working, she spends time mentoring aspiring publicists through her blog ThePRCloset.com or sharing parenting and life advice on her blog MamaWifeWorkLife.com.

Alexis currently resides in Westchester with her husband, two children, and Cavapoo.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

It was a happy accident. I took an internship with a boutique PR firm that specialized in PR for independent beauty brands. I fell in love with the job and the industry and the rest is history.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The ever-evolving PR landscape! I’ve had to constantly reinvent myself and learn skills like social media marketing, influencer marketing, etc. This means constantly growing your network of contacts and fostering all of those relationships.

You are a successful business woman, a wife and mother.

How do you balance it all?

I’m not sure I do balance it all. Something is always sacrificed, and I feel guilty no matter what. When I do try to give everything 100% across the board, I burn out quickly, so what I have learned is that it is okay to ask for help.

Having worked with some of the most iconic names in beauty and fashion, what or who intrigues you the most?

I feel very lucky to have worked with Diane von Furstenberg and Bobbi Brown. They are two incredibly accomplished, inspiring and empowering women who both taught me that confidence and hard work can make dreams come true.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

My industry is so different now than when I first started.

Traditional PR is almost non-existent, so I’d say learn as much as you can about social and digital media combined with consumer marketing and you’ll be set up for success in a Consumer Engagement or Integrated Marketing Communications role. www.harpergreyconsulting.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 9

Table

OF CONTENTS

obbi Entrepreneur, Makeup Artist, Author, Speaker

rown

Bobbi Brown is a beauty industry titan, world-renowned makeup artist, best-selling author, sought-after speaker, and serial entrepreneur.

As a Professional Makeup Artist, Bobbi created ten simple lipsticks that evolved into a global beauty empire. Read about her . . .

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Winter Recipes . . . Winter Getaways . . .

Chicken Soup, Crockpot Beef Stew, Other Comfort Food

Plus “The Nanny” & Other Family Sitcoms’ Comeback, Tartan is the New Black

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Sara Anne’s Suggested Trends

Winter Cleaning Tips Deep-cleaning tips to keep your home well maintained for this winter

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SPOTLIGHT

Tonia’s Talk:

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P.O.W.E.R. Networking Money Power New Column

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Turbo Charge Your Finances by Boosting Your Personal Power

2019 Can Be Your Year to Shine!

Woman of Distinction Dr. Mary Gallant Women of Excellence Women of the Month Rising Stars

Woman of the Year Dr. Leona W. Ayers

P.O.W.E.R.ful Women Esther Fortunoff

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Alexis Rodriguez Alvich Ellen Sirot

2 Gloria Allred, Lawyer Fighting Injustices Against Women

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52 Leslie O’Hare

In the Limelight Dallas Prince, Artist, Painter, Designer

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Dear P.O.W.E.R.

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P.O.W.E.R. Publicity

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P.O.W.E.R. V.I.P.s

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Book Corner

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Empowered Women’s List

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28 Erin Oprea Celebrity Trainor & Author P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 11

Dallas Prince D allas Prince is a recognized artist and painter who has been creating contemporary-realist works of art since the early 70s. While working as an art director in film and television, she was introduced to the jewelry home shopping industry, where her art merged with creative accessorizing to form a lifetime passion. For Dallas, jewelry is the ultimate artistic medium.

As an on-air guest, Dallas has spent more than 15 years creating unique jewelry, showcasing artistic elements, visionary mountings and unique color combinations.

Each design echoes the same elegant sense of beauty as her paintings. “I aim for subtlety in feminine style and elegance without sacrificing intricate details.

While I’m my own best customer, I’ve always felt a profound responsibility to the women who wear my designs,” says Dallas. Based in downtown Los Angeles’ jewelry district, she continues to design

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and manufacture her private collection for adoring fans.

Dallas Prince Designs has been showcased on multiple international television shopping networks for over 15 years. From dazzling unique collections to one of a kind pieces and bridal sets, Dallas and her business partner, Vincent Ciurluini, are recognized by industry leaders such as AGTA, WJA and JCK as award winning designers. Vincent is a Graduate Gemologist with an eye for color.

They are a jewelry power couple that continues to create innovative collectible jewelry.

After discovering her talent as an artist very early, Dallas realized that passion and achievement go hand in hand. Her artwork and designs have been recognized in many fields, but the jewelry industry provided a new avenue to explore her creativity. Her signature collection, Dallas Prince Designs, features artistry in metals, exotic gemstones and detailed antique finishes. Dallas’ goal is to emulate

How and when did you realize you had a creative talent?

My talent appeared very early in childhood in the form of artwork through pencils and crayons. I had the ability to sketch everything that I saw, but I loved using crayons to create colorful renderings.

How do you come up with new ideas and styles?

Inspiration comes from color, texture, shape and form, so I am visually influenced everywhere. My favorite place for unique ideas is antique shows. I can create a new collection from the scroll work on vintage door handles.

In what way does your collection differ from other jewelry designers?

The finishing details give life to my designs in a way that elevates

Artist, Painter and Evine Guest Dallas Prince Designs history’s artisans while creating tomorrow’s collectibles. An ascribed painter and published artist for over 35 years, she is proud to be a signature member of the International Society of Acrylic Painters.

She spent her early years developing her artistic style using different mediums, and eventually found that she prefers using acrylics. Her passion for contemporary realism led to using vibrant colors and a unique layering technique that creates depth, expression and undeniable detail. Many of her works can be found under her married name of Ciurluini.

Dallas’ paintings have been showcased in galleries such as The Westminster Gallery in London, The Royal Birmingham Society of Artist Gallery in Birmingham, England and Black Sheep Gallery at Hawarden Castle in Flintshire.

She considers it an honor and a privilege to have experienced such enlightenment through her artwork and is fortunate to share this with others. the entire style. Every piece from Dallas Prince Designs has a degree of artistry that says “vintage,” but the overall look of the finished jewelry says “upscale.”

What advice would you give to other women who want to design jewelry?

Find your passion and create a collection using it. Whether you love flowers or geometric shapes, you can feature them as artwork. Any one-dimensional sketch can be used as a three-dimensional work of art that adorns us.

www.dallasprincedesigns.com www.evine.com

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Dear

P.O.W.E.R.

Q Now that the year has ended, I would like some tips on how to review my failures at work so I can make positive changes and set realistic goals for the New Year. I want to stop beating myself up over my mistakes. — J.K.-New York A First, let me congratulate you on taking the time to assess the past year so you can prepare wisely for the new one. We have all been programmed to think that failure is a bad thing. However, it is through failure and mistakes that we learn to change and grow. We need to remind ourselves that there is no success without failure. Each situation that we experience is a lesson and an opportunity to move closer to success.

Every time your mistake leads to failure, you have the unique opportunity to review your strategies and methods, and tweak them until you get your intended outcome. What could you have done differently to bring about the desired result? For example, upon reflection, you may realize that if you had lined up additional vendors, you would not have been stuck when the one you chose could not meet the necessary deadlines. You would have had others to contact and utilize to fill the void. This year, make sure you put in some extra effort to research other vendors so you have a “Plan B.” Or if you realize that the “failure” was caused by a lack of trained employees, make sure that your goal for the next year is to have a larger number of trained employees or a better training program in place.

Unfortunately, as much as we hate failure, it is guaranteed at some point in our lives. In fact, the only way that you can avoid failure is if we do not push ourselves at all. If you cultivate a positive mindset, then you can move on from each failure without losing your enthusiasm and drive. By creating a plan for your future based on what you have learned from your mistakes, you can take back control of your situation. This also puts you in a better position to succeed, as you know where you are heading and how to get there.

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Q I am starting a new job on Monday. How do I decide what to wear? I want to look professional but also want to blend with the office environment. — A.S.-Texas A Congratulations on landing your new job. The first day of any new job or new position can be scary and overwhelming. People are judging you, and it only takes a few seconds to make an impression. To get started on the right foot, you need to look confident and comfortable, and your clothes play a key role, sending an instant message about who you are. For many, the job interview is a good place to assess what people in your new workplace are wearing. Is it a business casual office, a blazer and dress pants/skirt place, or full of fashionistas wearing the latest trends? Don’t be shy asking your hiring manager. If you were not able to view your new office ahead of time, it is always best to be a little overdressed. You can always adjust your wardrobe as needed if it ends up being a more casual environment. Even if you’re overdressed, the idea is to look understated and professional. It is important to be remembered for your work and skills, not that you wore a crazy outfit!

I would opt to keep it simple. A black sheath dress, or tailored black ankle pants with a crisp white button-down and tailored blazer are great looks. Keep your hemlines appropriate for the office, meaning no miniskirts or skin tight dresses.

You can play with trends a little bit but nothing over the top; remember you are trying to make a good impression. A chic scarf and a few delicate bracelets are great added touches, but avoid sky-high heels in fuchsia or a giant statement necklace. A classic pump in black or nude is always appropriate and, if you don’t wear heels, you can opt for a simple ballet flat in a neutral color.

Remember, the first day on the job is not the day to break in a new pair of shoes. It’s often the simple things that pull your look together: a fresh haircut, manicured nails, and a classic makeup look (no hot pink lipstick or sparkly eye shadow!)

Make sure you try everything on ahead of time and that you feel great in your outfit. Have it all set, ironed, and laid out so that in the morning you will not have that stress hanging over you. Your outfit should empower you to do your best and feel your best! Remember, you are a woman of P.O.W.E.R.

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PODCAST RADIO Our podcasts are prerecorded audio interviews which give our members the opportunity to convey a message or story. This is a great way to increase your exposure and market reach. The podcasts are promoted through our social media.

Publicity

P.O.W.E.R.

f you are interested in being interviewed to get your story on social media, consider a Podcast, Press Release, Video or even a possible Times Square Reuters Billboard display through P.O.W.E.R. We can help get you the additional exposure you deserve to take your career to the next level.

TIMES SQUARE PHOTO RECOGNITION Your photo, name and company name are displayed on the famous “Reuters Billboard” in Times Square, NYC. Times Square is considered the busiest area in Manhattan with approximately 330,000 people passing through daily, many of them tourists. Over 460,000 pedestrians walk through Times Square on its busiest days. It is also the hub of the Broadway Theater District and the world’s entertainment industry. It is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing an estimated 50 million visitors annually. This is a great way to attract attention and high visibility for yourself and your company.

PRESS RELEASE Your Press Release is a written public announcement covering your personal and business accomplishments designed to enhance one’s exposure and market reach. This newsworthy communication is distributed to radio, television, broadcast, journalists and social media sites. This release can include your photo or company logo as well as a hyperlink to your company website so readers can instantly learn about who you are and what your company offers.

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

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 15

Woman

OF DISTINCTION

M

ary J. Gallant is an associate professor at Rowan University, where she has been a faculty member since 1992. She teaches social theory in the core for the sociology major, working to create an expanded sociological imagination in each student. She also served as chair of sociology from 2007 to 2015. Dr. Gallant earned her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Minnesota in December of 1985.

As a dedicated academic, Dr. Gallant does research in social theory and its application.

Among her great concerns is the growth of conflict and violence worldwide. She is a Holocaust scholar and teacher with an awareness of the Holocaust as a turning point in the lives of millions of European Jews and in the post-Holocaust focus on what surviving genocide globally means for individuals and their families caught up in chaos.

In 2002, Dr. Gallant published her first book, “Coming of Age in the Holocaust: The Last Survivors Remember” mainly for her students in the course. The research for the book was funded by grants she received during her first years as a researcher and scholar.

Using in-depth interviews, she observed that there were certain aspects of self and identity important to the survival process. She is now working on a second book which focuses on the causal effects of friendship network structure on uncertainty during the first two years of medical school training. In this work she takes a social network approach. The book is titled, “Friendship Networks in Medical School: A Network Analytic Approach to the Study of Social Solidarity.”

academics.rowan.edu/chss/departments/sociology/ facultystaff/marygallant.html

Dr. Mary Gallant How did you get started in your field/industry?

From early until late in my childhood, I was a high performer, attending Honors College when I was 15. Love of learning more than any particular intellectual inclination was my impetus.

Sometimes it spurred me on; other times it got me in trouble. I owe so much to excellent teachers who were always there for me.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

There were so many! I have continually stayed strong when everyone else thought the battle was over. Women throughout my career were a minority in academia.

It meant continually facing the

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irrationalities of prejudice and detraction, envy and hatred. Keeping a clear mind and remaining impartial was as important as learning to turn the light back on again.

Who was your mentor? Who influenced you the most?

I had several people who seemed heroic to me. In childhood, my music teacher was my mentor; as I completed my dissertation, my advisor was. My parents influenced me the most, and with them, my close friends.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

Stay organized. After that, learn to laugh and love together. Encourage the best in them always. In the clinches, honor the

Associate Professor Rowan University

dignity of each person involved.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Women have a lack of people to believe in them. It is difficult to find the best teachers and training they can get. A supportive infrastructure is so often out of reach.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

Integrity and ethics matter.

I am an academic and teach students, so respecting others is very important. Speak softly and carry a great vocabulary.

Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by.

Having a great sense of humor (I just wish I could tell a good joke.)

Author

OUTSTANDING

23 P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 17

Marjorie A. Graf

A

Vice President and Chairman of the Board Graf & Sons Inc.

s the Vice President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Graf & Sons Inc., Marjorie A. Graf has over 40 years experience. She specializes in finance and the overall operations. She also oversees the exporting side of the business, customer service and sales. Graf & Sons Inc is a wholesale sporting goods store based in Mexico, Missouri, which sells sporting goods, hunting products, ammunition, shooting and reloading materials on a national scale. Marjorie has been recognized by the Mexico Chamber of Commerce for leadership in business and philanthropy. In her spare time, she enjoys family activities, shooting, camping, hunting, fishing, cooking, and church activities. www.grafs.com

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Lillian Johnson

Inventor Cramps-B-Gone

L

illian S. Johnson is the inventor of Cramps-B-Gone, a homeopathic drink which alleviates leg and other cramps. She came up with the recipe when she started getting leg cramps in her 60s after standing on her feet all day. With a patent pending, Cramps-B-Gone is a proven drink which helps athletes and others who experience leg cramps. She has been overseeing the operations of Josat, Inc. for the past three years, which manufactures and delivers the product.

Previously, Lillian served as a teacher for 43 years, specializing in reading. She received her B.S. in Elementary Education from West Chester University in 1965, her M.Ed. in Psychology of Reading from Temple University in 1978 and an additional degree in Educational Leadership from Nova University in 1988.

Currently, Cramps-B-Gone is being used not only by football players, but other sports enthusiasts as well. This product does not need to be refrigerated, which is a plus in the sporting world.

In her spare time, Lillian enjoys genealogy, reading, dancing and bowling.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

Discovering the need for a product to stop muscle cramping within 30-90 seconds among sports enthusiasts of all ages led me to create a drink that people could take on the sidelines at a football game or on the bench of a basketball game.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Starting a business after retiring is a very challenging venture because my family members who would normally assist me don’t live nearby. They also think that I should just sit on the beach in Florida with a good book.

Who was your mentor? Who influenced you the most?

My parents were my mentors, hence the name of my corporation. Josat is a blend of Joseph and Hattie. Their 52year marriage was a love story that survived the depression and seven children whom they spoiled. My mother Hattie lived to be 106.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

Before retiring, my extended family, close friends, and devoted husband were always there for me. My husband was a house-husband 34 years ago when I was 41. My family and friends have always been there for me and continue to be there for me no matter what. I always try to reciprocate. Giving of yourself is very important, even if it is simply an issue of time.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Career-minded women need to consider whether or not they want to have children because daycare services are very expensive, even for women who

have a college degree. Women entrepreneurs often experience problems getting startup funding.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

If you believe you have a marketable idea, pursue your ‘dream’ until you exhaust all of the possible avenues that will lead to your success.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Fifty years ago, women went to college to find a husband, while I wanted to change the world. My education empowered me to compete in a man’s world. Education empowered me to live my life the way I chose to live it.

Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by.

I am determined. www.crampsbgone.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 19

Jennifer Marcenelle

J

ennifer Marcenelle is a board certified holistic nurse and certified Gemstone and Diamond Therapy associate practitioner.

Her program combines the technologies of Gemstone and Diamond Therapy with the cognitive restructuring technique of neuro linguistic programming. Her practice is truly holistic, addressing the physical symptoms as well as the thoughts, memories and emotions that cause burnout. Jennifer’s philosophy is that burnout is completely reversible. She helps her clients release their unwanted energy and helps them heal their injuries from the inside out.

Previously, Jennifer was an emergency room and cardiovascular ICU nurse. For the last 17 years, she has served in healthcare laboratory sales with In Vitro Diagnostics, working worldwide to bring new technology and laboratory tests into patient care.

At the age of 44, Jennifer experienced a health crisis resulting from years of anger and frustration, trying to please and meet the unrealistic expectations of others. This experience led her on a journey of self-responsibility and healing, which changed her life forever. She has since devoted her career to helping people get their lives back.

As a result of her life and career journey, Jennifer has compiled her poignant experiences into her upcoming book titled “From Burning Out to Burning Bright: Get Your Life Back

by Healing Your Thoughts, Memories and Emotions.” She has earned a M.B.A., B.S.N., R.N., and HBC-HN and is one of only a dozen or so certified gemstone and diamond therapy practitioners in the world today. Jennifer is also the only practitioner who specializes in burnout and is currently an active member of the American Holistic Nurses Association.

Jennifer’s practice provides concierge energy medicine for individuals, families and their pets as well as customized private and corporate retreats. She also speaks to corporations and small groups across the nation, helping them discover their own solution to burn out and demonstrating how gemstone and diamond therapy can help them make incremental and profound changes to transform their lives.

In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking and dirt biking.

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

Founder and CEO

How did you get started in your field/industry?

After my health crisis and nervous breakdown from burnout, I took a journey of self-healing which led me from western medicine to eastern medicine then on to Gemstone/Diamond Therapy. Now I’m in private practice and provide this service to women and leaders.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Imbalance in partner relationships from congestion in our own masculine/ feminine energetic flows, as well as the stress from dealing with the tricky workplace relationships.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

First and foremost, nurture my relationship with my spouse to align our dreams and goals.

Who was your mentor? Who influenced you the most?

Maggie Daniels is a fellow sales executive who was also rapidly promoted and was dealing with similar challenges of being a female leader in a Japanese company.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

Put your highest self in charge. Follow you heart and dedicate time to developing a 1:1 relationship with your personal spiritual guide.

Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by.

Integrity BurnBrightToday.com

Cherie Alleyne Owner | Blum’s

C

herie Alleyne is the owner of Blum’s, a swimsuit and lingerie shop based in Patchogue, New York. She attended the University of the West Indies in Barbados, where she was born.

With a background in sales, Cherie is experienced in all aspects of the swimwear industry. She is responsible for purchasing, inventory, advertising and marketing, training the staff, and the overall operations of the shop. As an experienced buyer, Cherie makes it a point to carry swim suits for all shapes, sizes and ages.

Originally a corset shop, Blum’s has been around for more than 90 years. The company prides itself on having the largest collection of swimwear in Suffolk County. As an iconic store for swimwear and intimate apparel, they ensure every customer gets a proper fitting and that the store stocks hard to fit cup sizes.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I started working as a sales associate at a swim store in New Jersey many years ago. I worked my way up to a buyer of swim wear before joining Blum’s in Patchogue, New York to develop their swim line business.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

I was not always taken seriously because I am a woman of color working in a predominantly Caucasian-dominated industry. Not everyone wants to see you succeed. I had to overcome many roadblocks to continue my journey to success.

Who was your mentor? Who influenced you the most?

Abe Siegel, the original owner of Blum’s, took me under his wing and mentored me. He taught me all about the financial aspects of the business. We communicate often regarding the climate of our industry which affects our business decisions.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

You have to understand the importance of having a work/ life balance and put family first above all else. The two can only exist if you commit to this practice.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

As projected in the #METOO movement, women still find themselves being objectified and not treated fairly or equally from the workplace to the board room. There are still a lot of men who are very intimidated by strong, successful women.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

A good education is key. Networking can prove to be beneficial. You never know who you might meet to propel your career forward. Remain positive, proactive, and upbeat. Be mindful of what you post on social media. Dress for success.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment is synonymous with confidence. One of my favorite quotes is by Marcus Garvey: “If you have no confidence in self you are twice defeated in the race of life. With confidence, you have won before you have started.”

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 21

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P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 23

Women

OF EXCELLENCE

Erin Banda Coach and Founder Erin Banda Life and Health Coaching

E

rin Banda has been a life coach for over 3 years. Based in Washington, D.C., she is a personal development and lifestyle coach for professionals who want the support, confidence and accountability to turn their life’s vision into reality. She is committed to the growth of her clients and seeing them meet and exceed their goals.

Previously, Erin spent 25 years in the legal and nonprofit arenas. She served as a nonprofit manager with Nyumbani USA for almost 20 years, managing daily operations, and supporting Kenya’s largest facility treating HIV positive children. She has also served as an assistant with the National Register of Health Service Psychologists for almost a year.

In addition to having certifications through the International Association for Health Coaches and the International Coach Federation at the ACC level, Erin received a B.A. in Government and International Relations from Clark University in 1990. She is committed to the growth of her clients and seeing them meet and exceed their goals. She is a member of the International Coach Federation and the International Consortium for Health & Wellness Coaches.

Erin feels that her most impactful and meaningful education and training has been the collection of her life experiences. This includes navigating her own career confusion, being the best mother possible and continuing to follow her own life purpose. Erin has overcome divorce, debt, health challenges including depression, relationship/connection issues, launching her own nonprofit serving women and children in Africa, remarriage and co-parenting. She uses the skills and lessons learned to help her clients transform their lives.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I was inspired to become a coach after healing my own emotional and physical issues through food and self-care. I realized that my life and mind-set were getting in the way of my health, and ultimately, it was up to me to take responsibility for both.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

I feel there are still expectations of the roles women and men ‘should’ play in the work force, in their families, in relationships, etc. While these expectations do come from society, they are also internal, where I believe the work begins.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

Dream big and put in place the structure sufficiently necessary to support you in achieving your goals. The world needs you!

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment is not bestowed on me by someone or something else. It’s an inner knowing that I am the source of my life and how it turns out. I only have to make the choice and access it. erinbanda.com

Gineean Holyoke Contractor | KGJ Fence, Inc. Gineean Holyoke has over 30 years experience in the fencing industry. She is the owner of KGJ Fence, Inc., which provides fencing building, planning, installation, follow-up and repair services for residential, commercial, industrial and ranch fencing needs. The company has built privacy, security, slat, rail, chain link, ornamental and accent fences for almost 30 years in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

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

The company is certified through WBE as a Women’s Business Enterprise. As a contractor, Gineean is responsible for providing job estimates, hiring installers, providing general office support and administration as needed and ensuring the best possible customer service. She is a member of the R.C.N.C. In her spare time, Gineean enjoys fishing, travel, and public speaking. www.kgjfence.com

Kelley Gardner Owner and Founder Kelley Gardner, CRNA, Inc. Kelley Gardner is the owner and founder of Kelley Gardner, CRNA, Inc. She has over 34 years of experience in the healthcare field and is passionate about providing safe anesthesia for all patients.

She is certified by the National Board of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists. She serves as a coordinator and owner of all CRNA groups delivering high risk anesthesia in Sacramento, California and has developed a reputation as being one of the finest anesthetists in the field.

After obtaining her B.S.N. from the University of Utah School of Nursing

in 1984, Kelley worked as a trauma emergency room nurse until she started graduate school. She earned her M.S. in Nurse Anesthesia from the Abbott Northwestern School of Nurse Anesthesia in 1991. She worked at Kaiser Hospital prior to opening her own practice.

Kelley has worked in many underserved rural areas and volunteers her anesthesia skills for medical missions in Haiti.

According to Kelley, “Being a nurse anesthetist, you have to be a strong, fearless person, as you are dealing with life and death decisions for your patients.”

Kelley specializes in obstetrics, high risk obstetrical anesthesia and general anesthesia. She is a member of the National Association of Nurse Anesthetists.

Gloria B. Gertzman

W

ith almost 40 years experience, Dr. Gloria B. Gertzman is a general dentist. From 1980 through 1992, she served as a clinical professor of oral diagnosis and radiology at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, teaching clinical and didactic treatment planning, radiology and oral facial genetics to predoctoral and postdoctoral students and dentists.

From 1992 through 1994, Dr. Gertzman was the dental director of Soundview Health Center, in the Bronx, New York. While there, she started, practiced in and managed the dental department.

Dr. Gertzman then served as dental director of Bridgeport Community Health Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where she started a dental department and then opened a satellite dental department in Stratford Community Health Center in Stratford, Connecticut. She practiced in and managed both dental departments.

From 2003 through 2005, she was the dental director for Building Services 32BJ Health Fund of New York City. During this time, she directed a staff of 80 people.

Dr. Gertzman then served as dental director for a family dental practice in New Jersey from 2005 through 2007.

In 2007, Dr. Gertzman opened her own private practice of family dentistry

Kelley is also an independent distributor and consultant for Kyani, which promotes natural health and wellness products. In her spare time, she enjoys snow skiing, golfing, water color painting and sporting clay. www.sleepgal.kyani.com/en-us/

Ph.D., D.M.D., F.A.G.D., C.C.H.P. | Dentist Gloria B. Gertzman Dentist and Dental Office

in Pennington, New Jersey. She had 1800 patients of record at this practice through 2012.

From 2012 through 2016, Dr. Gertzman served as dental director for Essex County Correctional Facility in Newark, New Jersey.

Since 2016, Dr. Gertzman has been a consultant for dental practices in risk management and for dentists opening new dental practices. In addition, she has been inserting comprehensive care dental practices into urgent care medical facilities. In this capacity, Dr. Gertzman meets with the owners of the urgent care facilities, architects, building contractors and town offices to ensure all aspects of the dental facility are in compliance with local, state and federal laws.

Dr. Gertzman is a Certified Correctional Health Provider through the National Commission on Correctional Health Care. She earned her B.A. in Education and Psychology from Brooklyn College in Brooklyn, New York, her M.A. in Genetic Counseling, her Ph.D. in Human Genetics from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey and her D.M.D. from University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

Dr. Gertzman holds licenses to practice dentistry in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. She was awarded a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry in 1988.

Dr. Gertzman was awarded the American Dental Association Award for Recognition for Service in a Foreign Country, when she volunteered to provide dental care to residents of a kibbutz in Israel in 1980.

She has 14 publications to her name and received a patent for a nipple for a baby with a cleft palate in 1986.

In the mid 1980’s, Dr. Gertzman joined the organization Doctors Without Borders and traveled with other healthcare professionals to South America, where they treated people in an underserved area for a wide variety of health problems.

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

Women

OF EXCELLENCE

Barbara S. Haardt V.P. Residential Lending | First Savings Mortgage Corp.

With almost 33 years experience in the mortgage industry, Barbara S. Haardt is the vice president of residential lending with First Savings Mortgage Corp. where she is responsible for originating mortgages in the states of D.C., Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware.

While working as a branch manager with Plaza Home Mortgage, she was responsible for training loan officers and staff. She opened Plaza’s first office on the East Coast. She trained over 100 loan officers, many of whom own their own companies. She also works with top realtors presenting first-time homebuyer seminars as well as keeping them informed on guideline changes. Barbara has closed over $1.5 billion in loan transactions. She has been a top producer in all of the companies she worked for 32 years in a row.

Barbara is a member of the Mortgage Bankers Association and volunteered at

the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center of Washington, D.C. As a 15 year survivor of breast cancer, she enjoys giving back and participates in many organizations.

Born in central Pennsylvania, Barbara originally came to work in Washington D.C. for the FBI. After marrying, she helped her husband build his business as the largest independent dental company in the tri-state area. She then helped close friends start an advertising business and served as their chief financial officer. Before coming to First Savings, Barbara worked for several national lenders for 16 years.

In her spare time, she enjoys Formula One racing, opera, the symphony, and Broadway shows. Her love of Formula One Racing allows her the opportunity to travel the world to see races in person and discover new cultures. She is a proud mother of two daughters and has five grandchildren.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I started with a friend’s mortgage company as a telemarketer in 1985 to earn some extra money. I was the top producer and earned $3000 in one week.

I left the advertising business as I was offered a full-time job and training. It was a tough decision as I was a single mom with two children.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

Asking for help, great daycare for the kids and aligning our goals, so we were on the same page. I did a lot of work at night after they went to bed.

What advice would you give to women starting a career in your industry?

Find a company with an excellent training program. Go to work for a top producer in the business and figure out what they are doing that works. You do not have to reinvent the wheel. Successful people know what works. www.haardtteam.com

Rowena Stamps Executive Director | Home Instead Senior Care

With almost 10 years experience, Rowena Stamps is the executive director of Home Instead Senior Care, located in Tucson, Arizona, which provides home care for seniors and Alzheimer’s patients internationally. With a background in home services, Rowena specializes in senior care and Alzheimer’s patients. She provides leadership and direction to the administrative team. She is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, providing guidance and support to the staff and ensuring that clients receive the best possible services from the association’s caregivers. Previously, Rowena served as a counselor, mentoring and supervising other caregivers. She then served as a cli-

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

ent care manager, and was the director of client care, where she led the entire team of client care managers and counselors, consistently assuring excellent services were provided to the clients.

Currently, Rowena is earning her B.S. in Psychology. She belongs to the Alzheimer’s Association, Desert S.W. Chapter and the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce. In her spare time, she enjoys outdoor activities, animal advocacy and is a life enthusiast.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Ensuring I was able to be a present mother for my children. I had my children with the intention of raising them myself. This type of work is 24/7, so balancing work with family life has been a challenge.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Limiting beliefs. We need to stop believing everything we hear and rely

more on our own authentic thoughts.

Spend more time seeking within rather than believing what the outside world has to say.

Who was your mentor? Who influenced you the most?

My mother gives more than she ever receives and is a truly selfless human.

I watched her care for others at the expense of her health and finances.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

Start with love. Look for ways to help make someone’s day and life better.

Listen and truly hear what people are saying. Don’t try and change someone’s mindset. Instead, try and see where they are coming from. You will be amazed at what you learn.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

The gaining and distribution of knowledge. Helping others help themselves. www.homeinstead.com/115

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10

TIPS for a

Healthier New Year

Walk at least 10,000 steps per day.

Movement is key. It’s not just about the 1 hour workouts. It’s about keeping your system engaged all day.

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1

Drink at least half your bodyweight in ounces of water per day - more if you are ill or active. This is such an easy one and it has a huge impact!

Most people are actually dehydrated.

Drinking water makes your whole system work better.

Use the buddy system. Pick an accountability partner. It’s harder to skip a workout if someone else knows you’re skipping it.

Make small changes throughout the day like taking the stairs or walking to a colleague’s desk rather than sending an email. Moving more in small ways throughout the day can result in big changes over the course of the year.

Try everything! If you know you hate walking on a treadmill, try a spinning class. Sign up for a salsa class or kickboxing or tai chi. There are tons of ways to get healthier and stronger.

Keep looking until you find one you love.

Stay active, even on your “rest day.” Don’t let that rest day become a glued-to-the-couch day. Get in your 10,000 steps even on that day.

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3

5 7

Strength train at least three days each week. You don’t have to lift huge amounts of weight, but consistent strength training will result in stronger, prettier muscles.

Hire a personal trainer. Correct form is critical to getting the results you want, so hire a professional. You may not work with them all the time, but they can make sure that you are exercising correctly so that you reduce your risk of injury.

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Play. I tell people all the time that the world is my playground. Take your partner on a walking date of your city.

Play soccer. Play volleyball. Finding a team sport that you can participate in will give you a great workout and you’ll have a blast doing it.

10

Turn strength training into a game.

Using tabatas (high intensity interval training) you make it a fun challenge to yourself with every workout.

C

elebrity Trainer and Author Erin Oprea serves as the personal trainer to some of the fittest names in music, including Carrie Underwood, Kelsea Ballerini, Kacey Musgraves, Maren Morris, and many others. Born in Sacramento, and raised in San Diego and Nashville, Erin was involved in soccer and fitness at a very young age. She felt the need to help others become physically fit and at 18 she received her first certification as a personal trainer.

A nine-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Erin made history when she was appointed to lead the first female platoon attached to the infantry in a war zone. She embraced the challenge the U.S. Marine Corps could offer her and enlisted at the age of 20. Her years of service included 2 tours of duty in Iraq. While serving our nation, she became even more aware of the importance of physical fitness and nutrition.

In 2006, Erin was recertified and immediately began using her unique fitness and nutrition plans to train an elite group of clients. Immediately, word spread, and she began training top business executives, celebrities and others who live busy lives and are conscientious about their appearance and health. She trains privately, one on one, in homes and on the road when necessary.

Erin has been Carrie Underwood’s personal trainer since early 2007. Working with celebrities like Carrie Underwood and Jennifer Nettles has earned Erin the title of “Trainer to the Stars.” She understands that her background, experience, confidentiality and friendliness are the cornerstones to her success. Erin’s calorie-torching workouts have been featured on Good Morning America and E!, as well as in People, Women’s Health, Self, Vogue, Glamour, and many more. Her revolutionary fitness and nutrition guide “The 4 x 4 Diet: 4 Key Foods, 4-Minute Workouts, Four Weeks to the Body You Want,” is available now.

Erin lives in Nashville with her husband, Sean, and her two sons. As a family, they are heavily involved in soccer, sports and other family activities.

opreapersonalfitness.com

Photo by Ryan Sims Photography

CELEBRITY TRAINER & AUTHOR

What made you decide to become a personal trainer?

I became a certified personal trainer when I was 18 years old. I’d always been very active, and I really love fitness. I wanted to use that love to help others find the love for taking care of themselves.

You enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at the age of 20 and were appointed to lead the first female platoon attached to the infantry in a warzone. How did it feel to be a woman in that position?

We were the first all-female Marine platoon in a warzone ever, and the first attached to the infantry. I felt a huge sense of responsibility to prove that we were every bit as capable as our male counterparts were.

You are known as the “Trainer to the Stars,” including Carrie Underwood. What makes your fitness and nutrition plan unique from other trainers?

Fitness is both my passion and my fun. My workouts are fun and are full of simple moves that can be done anywhere. Abs are made in the kitchen, so, my clean recipes are tasty and easy to follow.

What is your daily routine like?

My day starts at 3:30 a.m. I train clients from 5 a.m. until 5 or 6 p.m. Drive times are filled with interviews and meetings. My evenings are spent providing virtual training, writing my new book, and spending time with my family.

What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced as a trainer?

There’s just not enough time in the day! I really want to help as many people as possible learn to live a healthy lifestyle, but there are only so many hours in a day. Thank goodness for social media’s reach.

What part of the body on a woman is the most difficult to get fit?

The brain! Women talk too negatively to and about ourselves. Everyone’s bodies are made differently, though, so it’s not the same spot for everyone. It’s arms for some, legs or core for others. We all have different challenges.

Is it really necessary to drink 8 glasses of water per day?

Proper hydration is incredibly important. Take your weight in pounds. Divide that number in half and that’s the baseline of ounces you need every day. It goes up depending on your lifestyle.

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

Women

OF THE MONTH Bonnie A. Ard

President | Anderson Home Builders, Inc.

Bonnie A. Ard is the president of Anderson Home Builders, Inc., a residential construction company based in Pensacola, Florida. With over 36 years experience, Bonnie started working in the residential construction business back in 1988 with her husband Darryl. They build custom homes and have done several spec homes in the past. Bonnie is responsible for setting up contracts and helping clients with all aspects of new home construction, including some interior design, liaising with contractors and selling real estate. Her husband oversees the contractors in the field.

After being in the construction business for several years, Bonnie decided to get her real estate license to advertise their homes, rather than going through outside sources. She is a real estate agent with Gulf Real Estate Group, LLC. She recently retired from a full-time teaching position with A.K. Suter Elementary school after 32 years.

Bonnie received her M.Ed. in Supervision Administration and Elementary Education from the University of West Florida in 1991. She is a member of N.A.R. and N.T.A. In her spare time, she enjoys family time, travel and camping.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The biggest challenges I faced were working in an industry that basically was done by men in the past. This didn’t discourage me. It made me more determined.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Some of the biggest challenges that women face today are not being given the opportunities to provide jobs that have always been done by men and not being paid on the same pay scale as men in the same position. www.mygulfre.com

Darline H. Meskiel Darline H. Meskiel of North Hollywood, California, is a LMFT with almost 25 years experience.

She provides family and marriage therapy on a local basis. She has also been the co-director of Driver Safety Awareness Inc., for over 20 years, which provides court ordered driver safety awareness courses. Darline takes a family systems approach to her therapy and helps clients get their lives back on track.

She specializes in drug and alcohol addiction 12 step programs, grief counseling, and helping clients cope with anxiety, traumatic events and negative thinking.

Darline received her M.S. in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University in 1982. She is a member of the A.A.M.F.T. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and spending time with friends.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I attended California State University. My major was Rehabilitation Counseling. My professor at the time suggested that I look into Marriage and Family Therapy because he thought I was a natural.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life?

Before making the commitment for your goal, ensure that you have dependable childcare lined up.

Julie Christine King With over 30 years experience, Julie Christine King is a treasury management representative for Comerica Bank of Dallas, Texas. Her responsibilities include assisting global clients with technical difficulties, providing technical support services and check scanning assistance, training employees and clients and consulting as necessary.

Julie is a leader of Celebrate Recovery.

In her spare time, she enjoys gardening and spending time with her family.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Bank mergers and technology changes affect our business constantly. I take advantage of classes, seminars and workforce development opportunities.

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

LMFT, Private Practice and Co-Director Driver Safety Awareness Inc. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

We have to cook, clean and raise a family in addition to reviewing homework and providing an income.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

It means that I am able to define who I am and what I want. I can choose my career, the money I want to make, and who I want as friends. I am woman, hear me roar.

Name an outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by?

I am able to inspire and encourage those who cross my path to be the best they can be.

Treasury Management Representative Comerica Bank

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

Learn to say no without feeling guilt or shame. If you are married, don’t forget you are. Intentionally make time for your spouse, and grow your marriage as you grow your family. The power within each of us can inspire others to make things happen.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

Look for a strong mentor. Find your strength, and use it to change something you are passionate about for the better.

Be confident, courageous, and don’t apologize or feel guilty for your ideas, thoughts or opinions. Speak up.

Be seen. Be you.

Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by.

I am confident in myself and what I believe in. I will not waiver from my business values. I am honest. I do not gossip nor engage in gossip. For the most part, I am happy and grateful for each day and I take pride in my job and the company that I represent. I love and believe in women. We have the power to influence, inspire, accept our failures, learn by them and not let them define who we are. We are fearless, smart, talented, and authentic. We are not perfect and that’s o.k.

www.comerica.com

Velma Crawford With over 50 years experience, Velma Crawford is the owner of Veez Ties that Bind. Velma creates wearable art using decorative aprons. She sews pretty and unusual designs onto aprons and sells them at events and through the internet.

Velma began creating aprons when she was ill. The creation process became a positive therapy for her and continues to give her peace. As her therapy turned into a bit of an obsession, Velma turned her obsession in a successful business.

Designer | Veez Ties that Bind Velma’s designs are inspired by her grandmother, who taught her the art of quilting. In addition to creating her wearable apron works of art, Velma is also a storyteller. She earned her M.A. from the University of Maryland in 2001. In her spare time, she enjoys writing short stories and is a Hospice volunteer. Velma is one of those rare examples where she is able to make a living doing something she loves.

J’Non H. Griffin J’non Griffin is the owner of Home Health Solutions, LLC of Carbon Hill, Alabama, which is a full-service consulting firm for both home health agencies and hospices nationwide. She has almost 30 years experience in home care nursing. In her current role, J’Non oversees the daily operations of the company.

J’non has experience as a field nurse, director and executive with home health and hospice agencies, both large and small. She has served as director of staff development and appeals for home health and hospice agencies. She has taken part in mock surveys for agencies, and prepared agencies for accreditation.

She has been directly involved in accred-

Owner | Home Health Solutions, LLC itation surveys, acquisitions and many regulatory crises with state survey agencies and the intermediary. As regional director of operations for a home care company, J’non was responsible for the operations of several branch agencies. She has been responsible for risk management, acting as compliance officer, the development of policies and forms, survey compliance, appeals of Medicare denials, writing Corrective Action Plans, start-ups of parent and branch agencies, consulting with agencies on a variety of subjects, and staff education.

With a broad educational background, J’Non received an A.S.N. from Walker College in 1988, a M.H.A.

Anna Schmookler Anna Schmookler is the owner of RJZ Construction Safety Inc., which is a premier boutique health and safety consulting company as well as an independent full-service site safety and training organization, located in Brooklyn, New York. The company is committed to providing their clients with the best safety management services. Their team is highly experienced, tenured and distinguished, having worked with many major builders and super structures.

Among her responsibilities as the owner, Anna specializes in construction site safety services and training. She specializes in human resources and all office administration. Having some of the biggest developers in New York

to call her clients, Anna is passionate about construction site safety and creating a safe work place for the people inside and outside of the construction site. After immigrating to America from Azerbaijan with her parents and sister at the age of 4, Anna watched her parents struggle and sacrifice. They both became successful and encouraged their daughters to do their best. They are her constant inspiration.

In her spare time, Anna enjoys her family and creating memories.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I got started in this field due to an injury that my husband sustained on his own job site. The need for construction safety enforcement was clear to me. He

from Western Governors University in 2000, and a B.S.N. from the University of Southern Alabama in 2006. She is Certified in Homecare Coding Specialist-Diagnosis (HCS-D), Board Certified in Home Health-Coding (BCHH-C), Certified in OASIS competency COS-C, and is an AHIMA approved ICD-10CM trainer/ambassador. She is also a wound care certified practitioner through WCEI. J’non serves on the board of Home Care Directions and is a frequent contributor on Beacon’s Ask an Expert Panel. She has also been a contributor to the Decision Health Publication, The Diagnosis Coding Pro, and Eli’s Newsletter. She has presented several webinars and has been a national speaker several times on varying subjects. www.homehealthsolutionsllc.com

Owner | RJZ Construction Safety Inc. became very dedicated and was the one who helped me get into this field. He is my constant motivation.

Who was your mentor? Who influenced you the most?

My parents. They still mentor and influence me more than they can ever imagine. It is because of them that I had the courage to create my own business and be my own boss.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

I would say being viewed as the “secretary.” Breaking down that stereotype has to be the biggest challenge I have faced so far. www.rjzconstructionsafety.com

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

Soruba “Rani” Kuusto Soruba “Rani” Kuusto is the owner of wellnessnurse.com (under construction), a new company providing nurse consulting services.

With over 35 years experience, she is a recently retired nurse consultant from the State of California, Department of Corrections. She is a skilled negotiator who handled complex issues from the California Governor’s office as a Chief Nurse Executive. Soruba served as a nurse consultant and is a Certified Nurse Instructor and a Certified Public Health Nurse. She offered consulting services through CAL-OSHA during her employment.

Since retiring, Soruba volunteers her time in the community which has been her passion. She is a member of many organizations and holds the following positions: co-chairperson for the Health and Wellness Council GOPIO International, chairperson of the local chapter in GOPIO-Los Angeles, vice-president of the Fullerton Lion’s Club and volunteer for the SAHARA organization. Previously, she volunteered for Habitat for Humanity in Mexico, volunteered in Chennai,

Annie Halum Annie Halum has almost 10 years experience in the catering industry and is the owner of Nola Creole Cajun.

Based in Flat Rock, North Carolina, the business provides authentic Cajun and Creole food for weddings, special events, corporate, and business events.

As a full-time caterer, Annie cooks Cajun and Creole specialty foods. She is also responsible for the daily operations, sales, marketing, providing estimates, creating menu choices and staff oversight.

With some college and a Certification in Safety, Annie ensures all food safety. She belongs to the Canuga Conference and is a volunteer with the I AM organization. In her spare time, she enjoys family activities, rock climbing and snow tubing.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

When I was 12 years old I started cooking with my dad, family and friends.

I went on to become a sous pastry chef, cook 2 and wedding planner in New Orleans. At the age of 27 I became the manager of a hotel at the Oceana Bar Grill.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The biggest obstacle was experiencing hurricane Katrina, and finding out results about family and friends, which led me to relocate to North Carolina.

Surviving Katrina was a dream come true

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

Owner | wellnessnurse.com

India helping survivors of a tsunami, and worked with Peace Corps volunteers in the Middle East and England. Soruba helps the homeless people in her local community during the weekends by cooking and serving breakfast, and distributing clothes, shoes and socks. As a nurse educator, she volunteers her time by educating the local community, schools and prisons on subjects like diabetes, heart disease, domestic violence, bullying, and other relevant issues.

Soruba earned her B.Sc. in Nursing from the S.N.D.T. College of Nursing in Mumbai, India and her M.P.H. from California State University- Long Beach. Her hobbies include travel, art, music, theater, the stock market, ethnic cooking and photography.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

I worked long hours, weekends and holidays for more than 14 years straight. Sometimes I also faced patients with violent behavioral issues.

Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by.

I am a very kind-hearted, humble person, a great listener and speak several languages.

Caterer and CEO | Nola Creole Cajun and overwhelming. I assisted in opening The Mason Jar Restaurant in New Orleans. Then I became a head pastry chef of the Royal Sonestra Hotel. The result of these experiences gave me the courage to open my own business.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

Be strong. Don’t give up. Forgive people from the heart. Don’t do anything unless you love it.

Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by.

I am highly intelligent and full of talent. I am passionate and have a drive for what I do. I’m here to serve the needs of my customers in a unique fashion.

Nancy J. Nusbaum

Owner and Executive Director | Comprehensive Care System With over 50 years nursing experience, Nancy J. Nusbaum is the owner and executive director of Comprehensive Care Systems (CCS) of Bakersfield, California.

CCS is a nurse-owned and independently operated company, offering a wide range of health care-related professional services benefiting workers compensation insurance companies, workers compensation and personal injury attorneys and companies looking to maintain a healthy workforce. Nancy oversees the careful review and analysis of medical records and determines whether proper care was provided to an injured or ailing individual. She also provides an expert opinion

on what outcomes can be expected as a result of the treatment provided and makes recommendations about ways that a claimant can be better served.

Nancy has a broad educational background. She earned her M.S.N. from Texas Woman’s University. She is a R.N., F.N.P., C.L.C.P., C.R.R.N. and C.C.M. Her specialties include medical case management, worker’s compensation insurance claims and legal nurse consulting services. Nancy travels with patients to their appointments and treatments as needed. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening and family activities. www.compcaresystems.com

Owner, Operator and Master Pilates Trainer | Archer Pilates Melanie K. Archer is the owner, operator and Master Pilates trainer at Archer Pilates in Los Angeles, California. Her staff are licensed, certified and trained in classical Pilates, structural integration, sports medicine and holistic bodywork. With over 12 years experience, Melanie oversees the operations of the center, teaches numerous Pilates classes, and works with those who need rehabilitation due to sports injuries, chronic illnesses such as MS, and other physical limitations.

In 2006, Melanie decided to change careers and left the education field where she had been a pre-school teacher. She discovered Pilates when struggling to lose the last 20 pounds of her baby weight.

She originally converted the garage at her

home in Culver City into a studio.

When the business outgrew the size of her garage, Melanie opened the current studio. She earned her B.A. from California State University- Los Angeles and has multiple Pilates certifications including being a Master Trainer. Melanie has been featured in articles in the Culver City Star and The Argonaut. She created the Archer Pilates Academy in 2015 and her entire staff is certified through her course.

What are some of the biggest challenges/ obstacles you faced in your career?

The biggest challenge has been building my business while being a single parent.

Trying to balance the two to ensure that my business was constantly growing while not allowing it to take away from raising my

Delores Clemons

Delores Clemons has been affiliated with State Farm for 30 years as an agent in management and claims.

Her professional designations are Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Financial Consultant. Her specialties include home insurance for single and multiple family homes, condos, co-ops, renter’s and auto insurance. Delores also serves as a business and life insurance representative. She has experience with relocated residents and has provided insurance for the residents of Westchester County and the five boroughs of New York City for over 20 years. She is a

member of the President’s Club, Ambassador Club, and SVP Club.

After seeing a need for networking opportunities, Delores spearheaded a group of business owners and community leaders and formed the Business Empowerment Coalition, a grassroots organization. She founded the Business Networking International Chapter in Port Chester, and sat on the Public Relations Committee for the Westchester Association of Women Business Owners.

Delores was also the vice president of the Solid Rock Community Development Corporation, in Yonkers, New York.

Delores received a B.A. in Communications from North Carolina State University and holds a Certification in Business Management from Bloomfield College. She earned her M.B.A. from

Deveron D. Ellison

Deveron D. Ellison is the owner of HBH Services, which is an e-commerce company that sells wholesale pet toys on Amazon.com. A strong advocate of animal rescue, she donates to several animal rescue organizations and owns two rescue dogs and two rescue cats. All the toys she sells are tested by her pets first to ensure safety and endurance. In addition to running the operations of her website, purchasing wholesale items, overseeing the marketing efforts and inventory, Deveron has served as an associate director in the Bursar’s Office of Southern Methodist University for the past 17 years, helping students negotiate the financial aspects of the university.

Deveron is a member of and was

Month

WOMEN OF THE

Melanie K. Archer

daughter was quite the task.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way and look to create your own to ensure you have the time and resources needed so you can be there for those that depend on you in all aspects of your life. archerpilates.com

Insurance Agent | State Farm

www.clemonsagency.com Dowling College in 2016. Delores has worked in the field of education and real estate. Previously, she was a business analyst with Dun & Bradstreet and ran for a seat on the City Council of Orange, New Jersey. In 2009, she was one of 25 consultants that wrote a self-help book entitled “Raising African American Girls.” Delores is a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and the National Association of Female Executives. She enjoys golf with her husband Larry, and spending time with her family.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

I would tell women to be the very best you can be in all areas of the profession and leave nothing to chance. You never know when someone is looking at you for that next great opportunity.

Owner | HBH Services honored to speak for Dale Carnegie.

She belongs to the Texas Bursars for Universities and Colleges. In her spare time, she enjoys drawing, rescues and spending time with her

family and pets.

What are some of the biggest challenges you faced in your career?

Working as a qualified worker in the corporate world. As we know, women do not get equal pay or the same opportunities as men. In all my years it has improved but it still has a long way to go.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

Never give up. Tell yourself every day that you are the best. Wake up with a smile on your face and make every day as if it was going to be the last.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

Put your mind to it and you will succeed. It takes a while to get settled and know how to make a profit. Keep at it and have faith in yourself.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Being able to do anything that I put my mind to.

Dsmartcat.shop

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 33

Women

OF THE MONTH

Jami L. Hartley

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

W

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

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

Zibute Z. Janeliunas President and Owner ZBT Enterprises

As the President and Owner of ZBT Enterprises for the past 11 years, Zibute Z. Janeliunas is responsible for the overall operations of the company. The business is based in Toronto, Canada and works with nonprofits and associations, mainly installing software packages which assist with dues, billing, membership tracking, and fundraising. Her consulting services cover Canada, the U.S. and the Caribbean. Zibute specializes in business process reengineering, strategic direction, training, business process review and software implementation.

In addition to consulting and running her business, Zibute serves on three hospital committees and is on the board of directors of a local nursing home.

She earned her A.S. in Business Administration and Marketing from Ryerson

College in 1976. In her spare time, she enjoys travel, singing in the choir and teaching children in music ensemble.

Previously, Zibute served as the executive director of Advocis/Gama for eight years. She was responsible for membership growth, events management, budgeting, strategic direction, developing new programs and reporting results to the board and the international board.

During her tenure, she increased the

Rhona L. Dawson With 20 years experience, Rhona L. Dawson is the owner and a claims adjustor with Estimating Ink of Suffolk, Virginia. In addition to the overall operations of the company, Rhona is a claims adjustor and manager responsible for liability claims. She serves as a liaison between insurance companies and contractors and helps homeowners and contractors get more from insurance companies. Rhona specializes in insurance adjusting. She also handles the administration of the business, is responsible for instructing and training, as well as providing supplement and settlement assistance. She received her A.A. in Special Education from Tidewater Community College in 1984.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Balancing what we do and who we are

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membership from 150 members to 1100 members within three years.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

In the corporate world I found myself working more hours, contributing more, volunteering more and yet there did not seem to be a way to break the glass ceiling. As a self-employed person I found that I gained the freedom to achieve my potential.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

Take as many courses as you can.

Find a mentor. Work smart and contribute. Move to another workplace if yours does not have opportunities What does the word empowerment mean to you?

You can use your skills and capabilities to achieve your maximum potential. The ability to make changes in your life and career without being stopped by anyone.

Owner and Claims Adjuster Estimating Ink

is sometimes difficult. Helping family and friends understand choices, goals and passions helps family and friends respect your limits and appreciate the value of time spent between your professional life and personal time. We face many of the same direct diversions as the professional women of the past.

I believe persistence and confidence have provided a solid foundation for the success of any endeavor.

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

As for women starting out in my industry, you should carefully review and evaluate choices before making decisions.

Present decisions with a firm and confident position yet be humble enough to make revisions and consider alternate choices.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

“Empowerment” is the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights. This definition on a personal level means a declaration of the pursuit of my professional success.

Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by.

I want to be remembered for my persistence.

Marilyn Meléndez

Co-Owner PROUCO Group

Marilyn Meléndez is the co-owner of PROUCO Group, a flooring systems company based in Gurabo, Puerto Rico. Along with her husband Johnny, Marilyn continues to expand and develop the company to meet the needs of this ever-changing industry. The company provides flooring services of the very highest quality.

Marilyn earned her M.B.A. in International Marketing from the Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in 2008. While at PROUCO, her responsibilities include oversight of the daily operations and promoting the PROUCO Group brand on social media. In her spare time, she enjoys family time, exercising, reading and listening to music.

What do you feel are some of the How did you get started in your field/ biggest challenges that women face industry? today?

I was working as a recruiter at a To face gender discrimination. To private university. One day, my husband get paid as much as men. To become asked me to join him at our new indusa leader in a man’s world. trial flooring company. All of a sudden What advice would you give to womI became the president of PROUCO en starting out in your industry?

Group!

To cultivate and increase their What are some of the biggest challenges/ self-trust. To keep learning. To be obstacles you faced in your career? empowered!

Being a business woman in a man’s What does the word empowerment world is not that easy. Trying to get the mean to you? respect from workers is truly a challenge.

To be confident. To have inner It’s like either you stay, or you quit, and strength. To believe that there are no that’s not negotiable. I remain. limits. To be a visionary.

Charmaine Dunn Charmaine Dunn is the owner of Charm’s Consulting Services, LLC, which provides consulting services to individuals and businesses. Charmaine assists businesses and individuals with grants, specializing in grant proposals (RFPs). She also provides consulting services. Charmaine earned her MBA from Central Michigan University and is PMP Certified. She is a member of and supports the following organizations: Autism Speaks, the National Museum of African American History, Women of Incarcerated Loves Ones (WILO), the United Negro College Foundation and the Virginia Black History Month Association. In her spare time, Charmaine enjoys coaching and mentoring.

What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully?

It is important to take time out and acknowledge God, because without Him I could not have made it. Meditation, prayer, reading, and having a spiritual connection that allows you to breathe

Consultant Charm’s Consulting Services, LLC

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

Be strategic in building your team.

Partnering and networking is powerful.

Exchange skills, knowledge, and tools.

Embrace change and be willing to learn from others. Seek appropriate training.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

The ability to encourage and support another person, building their confidence, by way of mentoring/coaching and allowing them to grow without judgement, making mistakes along the are helpful. Take time out for family, way and encouraging them through friends and vacation. Slow down, have the process to always move and work fun and don’t sweat the small stuff. towards their potential.

What do you feel are some of the bigName one outstanding quality that you gest challenges that women face today? think people should know about you or Sometimes as women we are our remember you by. own worst enemy. We have been I am a very passionate person and conditioned to believe we don’t deserve really enjoy encouraging others and success. We must overcome our obwatching them grow, change, excel and stacles by embracing and believing in transform into becoming their best ourselves, encouraging and supporting despite challenges or obstacles. each other.

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

Beauty Evolution LLC

Entrepreneur | Makeup Artist | Author | Speaker

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obbi B

obbi Brown is a beauty industry titan, world-renowned makeup artist, best-selling author, sought-after speaker, and serial entrepreneur. As a Professional Makeup Artist, Bobbi created ten simple lipsticks that evolved into a global beauty empire. She has written nine beauty and wellness books, many of them New York Times bestsellers, and has launched Beauty Evolution LLC since leaving the eponymously named Bobbi Brown Cosmetics in October 2016.

At a time when stark contours and shiny red lips were in fashion, Brown designed cosmetics to highlight a woman’s natural look, and introduced Bobbi Brown Essentials in 1991. This line of color cosmetics revolutionized the industry. The original brown-based lipstick shades offered a simple way for all women to embrace and highlight their lips.

Other groundbreaking products soon followed. Bobbi’s philosophy is straightforward: “Women want to look and feel like themselves, only prettier and more confident.”

In 1995 Bobbi Brown Cosmetics was acquired by The Estée Lauder Companies, where Bobbi served as Chief Creative Officer, building a billion-dollar brand.

Unwilling to rest on her laurels, Bobbi has returned to her roots as an entrepreneur.

Her latest endeavor is EVOLUTION_18, a line of lifestyle-inspired wellness products

rown that launched on QVC in the spring of 2018.

Another, justBobbi.com, also launched this past spring, is a platform for Bobbi to share many of her life inspirations. In addition, Bobbi and her husband Steven Plofker recently opened and redesigned The George, a 32-room design-inspired, boutique hotel in Montclair, New Jersey.

Bobbi’s gift for translating trends into real-life applications has made her a soughtafter expert on television, in magazines and newspapers, and online. Bobbi’s message resonates with diverse audiences. She is the Beauty & Lifestyle Editor of Elvis Duran and The Morning Show, and she continues to work editorially, penning columns for Charlotte’s Book, Purewow, and Naturally, Danny Seo. Born in Chicago and a graduate of Emerson College, Bobbi’s entrepreneurial impact extends beyond fashion and beauty.

She has received the Glamour Woman of the Year Award, The Fashion Group International Night of Stars Beauty Award, and The Jackie Robinson Foundation’s ROBIE Humanitarian Award, to name a few. She was appointed

by President Obama to the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiation and has been inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame. She also holds honorary doctorates from Montclair State University, Fashion Institute of Technology, Monmouth University, and Emerson College.

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

Be

ty u a

Evolution

Evolution­_18 Wellness Products

Brown’s

The George Hotel

Bobbi

Founded Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, 1991

How did you get started in the beauty industry?

I graduated from Emerson College with a degree in theatrical makeup.

From there, I moved to New York, and volunteered my time on every shoot, and with every photographer I could. With time, I finally made a name for myself, and launched my brand, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics in 1991. In 1995, I sold it to Estee Lauder Companies, where I remained the CCO for over 25 years.

Who was your mentor or who inspired you?

My grandfather (who owned a car dealership in Chicago) was my mentor in business. He was the hardest working man I ever knew. He taught me that you can achieve anything through hard work and never giving up. My mother was the one that inspired me to get into makeup. I used to watch her put on makeup and was amazed by how glamourous she looked. When I wanted to drop out of school, my mom said, “Pretend it’s your birthday and that you can do anything you want. What do you want to do?” I said that my wish would be to go to Marshall Field’s (a department store in Chicago) and play with makeup. My mom told me to become a makeup artist. So, I transferred colleges to Emerson, where I majored in theatrical makeup.

You are known for creating a naturally-toned makeup look while other makeup artists were using bright colors. What made you decide to use a natural color palette?

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

I was a working makeup artist in the 80s when the predominant style was very bold and garish. Every time I was on set I would have to mix together a multitude of colors in order to find one that looked like the natural tones that were found in a woman’s skin. I randomly met a chemist and told her my idea to develop a line of natural looking makeup. So we did. I wanted colors that accentuated a woman’s features, not covered them up.

Between creating your makeup line, launching and building a new company, traveling, raising a family, and writing 9 books, how do you juggle it all?

For me, family comes first. I believe in balance and making sure to find a moment to breathe. I find ways to destress like exercising, and the occasional vodka on the rocks.

Name one outstanding quality that you would like people to know about you.

I have an insatiable sense of curiosity.

I always need to be learning something new. I have trouble doing the same thing over and over again and feeling satisfied. Through my work, I try to create content that aims to educate and inspire others.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to hang out with my husband and sons and have a vodka on the rocks.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Having strong-willed determination.

Check out Bobbi Brown’s new podcast, “Long Story Short,” where she interviews amazing people. www.justBobbi.com www.evolution18.com www.thegeorgemontclair.com

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

nd re a g spon n ti c a ding e r e r p e e m to ev ople’ h ti t h O c s live eryo n. o mu i t ne o c s s e , r p d i r oblem spen ad no d y life . o t s, h m ed s e f f u o i I se yl r m u o t Once ec ha t h t e s t I re l e e s s t alize n a w d it and was okay for me to think about and identify w hat I wanted,

. e if l y m n i e c a l p rema e k a t rkable th ings beg an to

Melody Beattie

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

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

The Language of Letting Go: Daily Meditations on Codependency

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

Pamela McCoy

P

amela McCoy is a designer for Gems of Distinction and Gold of Distinction.

She began developing jewelry and fashion items in 2000. She consistently strives to create pieces that help women feel more comfortable and confident in every aspect of their lives. Pamela loves being part of the entire process, from visualizing a design to seeing it come to life.

With almost 30 years of T.V. experience, including 18 years hosting the 6-9 p.m. prime time slot on the Evine network with her husband Wes, Pamela is considered a fashion icon as well as a trend and jewelry expert in the television home shopping industry.

She is passionate about designs that include fashion, home and fine jewelry with classy upscale details and strongly believes

that elegance is always in style.

Pamela is a GIA graduate with certifications in diamonds, colored gems, and precious metals.

Her ability to identify trends and create relationships with viewers has translated into many successes. Historically, there has always been a connection between fashion and jewelry. Her love of both has led to a jewelry collection that creates an elegant look that women love and can afford.

Pamela’s collections consist of pieces with tasteful grandeur. Her luxurious

How did you get started in your industry?

During a television show at Evine I hosted with my husband Wes, I decided to voice my opinion concerning current fashion and jewelry designs. A manufacturer, who watched the show decided he agreed with my viewpoint and approached me with an offer. I accepted!

What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced starting your collection?

My biggest challenge was finding a way to provide couture details and a tailored looking fit through television. Typically clothing sold on T.V. at that time was presented as an “easy fit” with elastic waistbands and very little structure. The challenge was

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Designer & Evine Guest Gems of Distinction large silhouettes, animal motifs, and timeless elegance are found nowhere else. Her designs give you the best quality the industry has to offer.

enormous, but with a great team and perseverance, anything is possible.

How do you come up with new styles?

Two ways. First, I look for what is NOT in retail. I want to fill the void. Second, I actually listen to my customers. If you ask them, they will tell you exactly what they want.

What advice would you give to women wanting to start their own clothing line?

Never doubt yourself. If you have a passion for your designs, it will show in the finished product.

Find a manufacturer who will partner with you.

And finally, never underestimate your customers.

www.pamelamccoycollections.com www.evine.com

Sarah Cooper Writer Comedian Speaker

S

arah Cooper is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after writers and comedians in the world of comedy. She has been performing and producing comedy for almost ten years, in between working for global technology corporations that made her feel like they stole her soul.

In 2010, Sarah started performing standup at the Laughing Skull Lounge in Atlanta, Georgia, where she quickly became an audience favorite and was a semi-finalist in the Laughing Skull Comedy Festival. Shortly thereafter she moved to New York and began training with the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, performing regularly at Broadway Comedy Club. In 2013, her blog post about meetings went viral and led to a 3-book deal with Andrews McMeel. In 2015, Sarah began speaking about How did you realize that you were funny?

I was always telling stories when I was little and entertaining kids on the bus. I used humor to diffuse any kind of uncomfortable situation at home or at work. It was a result of me really hating confrontation and hating feeling like anyone was uncomfortable.

How long did you work for Google?

What happened that made you decide to leave?

I worked there for almost four years.

Then I wrote this blog, “Ten Tricks to Appear Smart in Meetings.” A lot of that was based on my co-workers and what they would do in meetings. It was a little scary publishing it because I knew that they were going to see it.

Thankfully, they all loved it and thought it was hysterical. I then realized that

humor in business and performing comedy regularly with Comedy vs. Nerds and The Set Up. In 2016, Sarah’s first book, 100 Tricks to Appear Smart in Meetings, landed at #1 in the Books > Humor > Business humor > Paperback books > Books with pages > Handheld books category.

In 2017, Sarah was on the writing team for SOMA The Musical, a comedy musical about Silicon Valley seen by over 6,000 tech babes and bros. She was also named as one of the 20 Hottest Bay Area Innovators by 7×7 Magazine.

In 2018, Sarah performed at SF Sketchfest, moved back to New York and will be releasing her third book, “How to Be Successful Without Hurting Men’s Feelings.”

there was a huge kind of opportunity because so many people love that post.

That’s when I created my website and started writing more.

What do you mean by the phrase “general trash talker?”

I like making fun of things. For whatever reason parody is just something that I’ve always gravitated towards- parody and satire. I love anything that pokes fun at something, reveals the truth, and takes on the ridiculousness of it.

Being a female comedian, would you say that people don’t take you as serious as they would take a male comedian? How do you feel about that?

It’s just a hurdle. There are a lot of similarities in the office world. You get on stage and you know immediately you’re not just a comedian. You’re

a female comedian. And I’m also a black female comedian so it’s a double whammy. I have to prove myself a little bit more.

What advice would you give to women who want to become a comedian?

The first thing you have to do is just give it a try. I would say, before you even think about taking a class or anything like that, go to an open mike event.

Which female comedian do you admire?

Chelsea Peretti is one of my favorite comedians. She’s a little bit awkward and she has kind of a dark sense of humor.

Where can we see you? What is your web site?

My personal website is sarahcpr.com. I have a list of my upcoming events there.

sarahcpr.com

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

Chief Financial Officer Evine

D

Diana Purcel What made you decide to become a CPA? I’ve always had an interest in business, and accounting is the language of business, so the path came naturally. My CPA and time spent in public accounting at the beginning of my career has opened many doors for me.

What advice would you give to women who are interested in a career in accounting or finance?

Take the time to understand how to read and understand financial statements, including footnotes if applicable, and pay attention to various levers for the business. Seek out an accounting or finance person to be a mentor to you.

What are some of the obstacles you face as a CFO?

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

iana Purcel joined Evine as Chief Financial Officer in April 2018. Prior to Evine, Ms. Purcel was the CFO of Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurants, a privately-held/ private equity sponsored, restaurant concept based in Chicago, Illinois. Before that she spent over ten years as the CFO of Famous Dave’s of America, Inc., a publicly held restaurant company and franchisor based in Minnetonka, Minnesota. Her other experience includes serving as the CFO of Paper Warehouse, Inc., formerly a publicly held party-goods retailer and franchisor, and having key roles at Damark International, Inc. and Target Corporation. Diana began her career with Arthur Andersen & Co. She has a B.S.M. in Accounting from Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, and is a CPA.

Having enough time – to think strategically about the future, to understand and respond to business trends, communicate with investors, be a community advocate and champion for the brand, to be accessible to my teams – I could go on and on!

With a high-profile career, how do you maintain balance in your personal life?

Balance is achieved over time as opposed to at a single point in time. Sometimes choices are heavily weighted in one direction by necessity, so you need to purposefully make different choices to self-correct. Set boundaries for yourself and others. www.evine.com

Katrina D’Onofrio Makeup Artist | Makeup by Katrina NYC Corp.

K

atrina D’Onofrio is a professional makeup artist. She graduated from Long Island Nail and Skin Care Institute of New York in 2003. She then began her journey as a freelance makeup artist catering to brides and local professionals, working with all age groups. She specializes in creating the appearance of flawless skin and captivating eyes. Her work became recognized by some of the industry leaders in PR which then began her career in the celebrity world.

Among others, Katrina’s work has been featured in Us Weekly, People Magazine, New York Fashion Week, BRAVO, MTV and CBS. Katrina is passionate about making her client’s look and feel their very best. Her training and experience in the industry has made her an expert in creating a flawless look for any special day. She is well known for her attention to detail. With each client, she creates a customized look that will bring out their best features. Her warm and inviting nature creates an environment that keeps her clients coming back.

www.makeupbykatrinanyc.com Facebook: MakeupbyKatrinanyc Instagram: @makeupbykatrinanyc

Katrina’s Makeup Tips

LIPS Nude shades can make your lips look fuller.

Stay clear of nudes that are too pale and make you look washed out. For fuller looking lips, try using a collagen lip plumper that helps plump your lips before applying your lipstick.

Also, apply a lip liner and over draw your lips for both nudes and darker shades to create a fuller pout effect.

FALSE EYELASHES False lashes are a wonderful way to help add a little something “extra” to anyone’s eyes. What’s important is starting with a soft natural lash style first. Measure them along your own lash line and cut at the end. Apply a thin layer of glue to the lash and wait about 20 seconds for the glue to get tacky before applying the lash. Place it EYES on top of your lash line closest to your Eye liner is an excellent way to lid. Be careful not to apply it on top of open your eyes. However, if black is your lid otherwise it won’t look natural. too harsh try a softer color like brown. Pinch them together with your own Avoid doing a thick liner on your lashes and apply mascara to combine upper lid. It can make them appear both lashes together to make them look too heavy. Matte shadows are also natural. For those that feel that false flattering. Shimmer shadows will lashes are not suitable for them, a safe draw attention to the areas you may alternative is using an eyelash primer be trying to conceal. When in doubt, before mascara to create volume and less is more. length to your natural lashes.

QUICK DAILY ROUTINE TIPS For ladies or moms on the go, I highly recommend using a BB cream.

For those that prefer even lighter coverage, try a tinted moisturizer with SPF. Mascara is also a necessity to help open your eyes and help you look awake. Apply your favorite blush or bronzer to give your cheeks some color. Try a long wear lipstick that you can apply and not have to reapply throughout the day. Brows truly frame your face and help you look younger. So, apply a tinted brow gel to help fill them in to pull your entire look together.

P.O.W.E.R.

VIPS

Laura Winckel

Faith Beauty Shop/ World Fitness

Owner and Founder Harker Heights, Texas

Personal Trainer Gary, Indiana

RETAIL/QUILTS

Kathryn Griffin

We’ve Been There Done That NON-PROFIT/VOLUNTEERING

Director Houston, Texas

DeeAnn Smith

Serenity Treatment Services MENTAL HEALTH CARE

Psychotherapist Birmingham, Alabama

Nargis Khazzan

CONSULTING

EDUCATION

Education Director Spring, Texas

Mary Ardissone Mary J. Ardissone HEALTHCARE

Home Health Aide Fitchburg, Wisconsin

Linda Johnsen

Bookkeeper Darlington, Wisconsin

ACCOUNTING

Bookkeeper Long Beach, California

Demetra ElderWilliams

Dream Seekers Talent Management ENTERTAINMENT

Talent Manager Hackensack, New Jersey

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

The Goddard School Spring (Klein)

Nurse Riverside, California

Superior Plus

Consultant Casselbury, Florida

Stephanie Day

HEALTHCARE

Kristine Campbell Spotlight Risk Consulting LLC

HEALTH/FITNESS

Every Cent Counts Bookkeeping

Prestigious Elder Care

Gisselle Elizabeth Cerezo

Rita Williams

Quiltopia/Quality Quilts by Laura

ACCOUNTING

Betty Seltzer

Farmers Insurance - Betty Seltzer Agency INSURANCE

Insurance Agent Glenn Dale, Maryland

Gloria Manchester Create a New Life Story COACHING

Life & Business Coach Sacramento, California

Ann Edenfield Sweet Wings For Life International

NON-PROFIT/VOLUNTEERING

Executive Director/ Founder Albuquerque, New Mexico

Margo Souza

AGRICULTURE/RANCHING

CEO, Retired Turlock, California

Keomi Brannon Kay’s Kleaning Service LLC CLEANING SERVICE

Cleaner Moore, South Carolina

Antoinette Franklin

Michele York

Steve White Motors AUTOMOTIVE

Sales Manager Hickory, North Carolina

Stephanie Hall

BCDC Anger Management COACHING

Life Coach McDonough, Georgia

Ekene A. “Kennie” Amaefule

Kathie Sutten P2STravel

Puget Sound Veteran Administration Medical Center

TRAVEL

Travel Agent Kinston, North Carolina

HEALTHCARE

Nurse Auburn, Washington

Arleen J. Gaetani

A.V. Franklin Literary Enterprises, Inc.

New Leaf Consignment

PUBLISHING

Business Owner Morris Plains, New Jersey

Educator San Antonio, Texas

RETAIL

Georgia Modica Geormels Second Chance Handyman LLC

CONSTRUCTION/BUILDING

Michele Synegal Management Dynamics, Inc. CONSULTING

Consultant North Bethesda, Maryland

Vivianne Hagopian V&R Associates FINANCIAL SERVICES

Bookkeeper San Diego, California

Contractor New Orleans, Louisana

Vicky Ware RAWE D&V

RETAIL INDUSTRY

Inventor Wyandanch, New York

Brenna Treadway Le-Vel Thrive

HEALTH SERVICES

Sales Manager Halstead, Kansas

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 47

Marilyn’s Spinach Salad Ingredients

1 bunch of baby spinach leaves, rinsed 3 oz. can drained white tuna 12 cherry tomatoes, halved ¼ cup dried cranberries 1 mandarin orange, peeled and segmented 1 handful of slivered almonds Coconut flakes – to taste ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup blueberry balsamic vinegar

Directions

• In a salad bowl, combine all ingredients and enjoy a healthy food!

Erin Oprea Overnight Oatmeal Ingredients 2 cups steel cut oats 8 cups water Directions

Toppings may include: cooked egg whites, blueberries, a dash of cinnamon

• Cook in slow cooker on low for 9 hours

Recipes

by Marilyn Melendez

Annie Halum’s Crawfish Pie Ingredients

2 packs crawfish tails 1 cup green onion ¼ cup minced garlic ½ cup chicken or shrimp stock ¼ cup diced bell pepper ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley ½ cup milk 1 stick of butter 2 Tbsp. corn starch A pinch of crab boil seasoning ½ tspn. each: salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper 1 pre-made pie crust (top and bottom)

Directions

• Pre-heat oven to 350.

• In separate bowl, mix corn starch

Crock Pot Beef Stew Ingredients 2 lbs. beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces ¼ cup all-purpose flour ½ tspn. salt ½ tspn. ground black pepper 1 clove garlic, minced 1 bay leaf 1 tspn. paprika 1 tspn. Worcestershire sauce 1 onion, chopped 1 ½ cups beef broth 3 potatoes, diced 4 carrots, peeled and sliced 1 stalk celery, chopped

and milk to make a slurry. Set aside.

• In large pot, melt butter on medium heat.

• Add all ingredients to pot except for milk and corn starch slurry.

Sautee till softened – about 10-15 minutes, mixing often.

• Cook bottom pie crust at 350 for 5 minutes. While the crust bottom is in the oven, add the slurry to the pot and mix well. Allow to simmer and thicken for 5 minutes. Remove crust from oven, pour contents of pot into pre-baked pie. Cover with top crust. Cut slits for steam to escape. Place back in oven and bake additional 15-20 minutes till pastry is browned on top.

Chicken in Bourbon Cremé Sauce

by Deveron Ellison Ingredients

1 lb. chicken breasts Salt and pepper 1 oz. bourbon 4 Tbsp. butter & 2 Tbsp. butter (separate) ¼ cup flour for dredging 1 cup heavy cream *Special thanks to AllRecipes.com

Directions

• Place meat in crock pot. In a small bowl mix together flour, salt, and pepper. Pour over meat, and stir to coat meat with flour mixture. Stir in the garlic, bay leaf, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, onion, beef broth, potatoes, carrots, and celery.

• Cover, and cook on Low setting for 10 to 12 hours, or on High setting for 4 to 6 hours.

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

Directions

• Slice chicken breasts in half and pound thin with mallet.

• Season chicken on both sides with a little salt and pepper.

• Dip chicken in flour and shake excess off.

• In large frying pan, melt 4 Tbsp. butter.

Fry chicken till golden on both sides.

• Add bourbon to the chicken and light on fire. Allow to burn off.

• Add 2 Tbsp. of butter into pan and melt.

• Add cream and simmer for 5 minutes.

Food

Chicken Soup

by Syndi Reibman

Ingredients

4 lbs. chicken leg quarters with skin (rinsed) 6 chicken backs (for extra flavor) 1 lb. carrots, peeled and nickeled Other items needed: 1 lb. celery diced Large stockpot 3 yellow onions, peeled and quartered (12 qt. or larger) 6 cubes Telma chicken bouillon Cheese cloth 1 Tbsp. Kosher salt (to taste) Tongs 2 Tbsp. whole peppercorns Large ladle 1 bunch fresh parsley 1 bunch fresh dill

Fresh pepper Directions

• Prep your carrots, celery and onions first. Peel carrots, slice into nickels or large chunks depending on your preference.

• Wash and dice celery using the entire stalk. No need to discard the leafy tops.

• Slice top and bottom off onion, peel and quarter.

• Rinse entire bunch of parsley and dill. Slice bottom roots off. Keep whole.

• Wrap peppercorns, parsley and dill in cheese cloth twice. Using food grade rubber band or kitchen twine, tie cheese cloth together so it is tight.

• Fill stockpot half full using cold water. Turn burner to high. Add carrots, celery and onions. Add chicken.

Unwrap and add bouillon cubes. Add herbs wrapped in cheese cloth. Add water till there is at least 3” of room at the top.

• Bring to a boil. Turn down to low simmer and allow to simmer for at least 2 hours UNCOVERED. Check water level after 2 hours. Add salt and pepper to taste.

• You will probably need to add about half a gallon of water after 2 hours. Add water, bring to a boil, then simmer for an additional 2-3 hours.

• Remove soup from heat. Using tongs, remove chicken, bones and skin carefully to a separate large sheet pan to cool. Remove cheese cloth and discard. After about 30 minutes, debone chicken and add pieces of chicken back into the soup. Taste to see if more salt or pepper is needed.

• This makes enough to freeze in a number of containers and have soup for a few weeks.

Indian Shrimp Curry

by Soruba Kuusto Ingredients

Directions

• Grind the chilies, ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander, tamarind, peppercorn, salt and turmeric and set aside the paste.

If too thick can add ¼ cup coconut milk.

• Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil and cook the sliced onion for 5 minutes.

Add the ground paste and cook for 30-40 seconds.

• Then add the shrimps, cauliflower and 3/4 cup of coconut milk and stir well.

Cook for 10 minutes or well done.

Garnish with cilantro leaves.

• If the dish is too spicy, feel free to add some sour cream.

1 lb. shrimp, peeled 1 medium size cauliflower cut in small bits 1 yellow onion sliced 3 green chilies – if preferred less spicy use 1 small chile 1 piece of fresh ginger (1 tspn. grated ginger) 2 cloves garlic minced 1 tspn. cumin powder 1 tspn. coriander powder 1 tspn. tamarind paste or use 2 large tomatoes 6 peppercorns – if preferred less spicy use 3 of them 1 small piece turmeric or 1 tspn. turmeric powder ¾ cup canned coconut milk – lite preferred ¼ tspn. salt – if more salt is needed add salt to the curry when you are eating the shrimp with Basmati rice or brown rice or with roti/nan.

Cilantro leaves for garnish.

Bobbi’s Afternoon Chocolate Smoothie

by Bobbi Brown This is my favorite smoothie from my new brand, EV_18.

Ingredients

1 serving of EVOLUTION_18 Afternoon Chocolate ½ cup of frozen cherries 1 cup frozen kale 1 Tbsp. chia seeds 1 Tbsp. raw cacao powder 2 Tbsp. coconut powder ¾ cup of water 1 cup of ice

Directions

Combine all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 49

D

r. Sheila Nazarian is a top board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, entrepreneur, social media influencer, wife and mom based in Beverly Hills, California. Besides being one of the nation’s top medical authorities, Dr. Nazarian also created The Skin Spot- a curated collection of medical-grade skincare products made affordable and understandable. Additionally, she founded the Nazarian Institute as a conference to help luxury brands think BIGBranding, Innovation and Growth.

Dr. Nazarian received a B.A. in Economics at Columbia University of New York. She earned her M.D. at Yeshiva University’s Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, and did a dual residency in General and Plastic Surgery at the University of Southern California. Dr. Nazarian earned a Masters in Medical Management (M.M.M.) at USC’s Marshall School of Business during her research years. She is an assistant professor at USC and teaches aesthetic surgery on a volunteer basis. She is married to a neurosurgeon, has three children and an adorable rescue dog, and resides in Bel Air.

Dr. Sheila Nazarian

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Nazarian Institute and The Skin Spot

What or who influenced you to become a plastic surgeon?

Originally, I wanted to be an architect or an orthopedic surgeon. I really was looking for a career that kept me active as well as creative, which unfortunately neither of these two options allow for. Off the advice of a family friend, I decided to investigate the plastic surgery residency at USC. It was there that I met my mentor (who still advises me to this day), and the rest is fate.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Every day is a challenge to make sure I’m balancing all my

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

priorities. I’m a mother of three, wife of a neurosurgeon, owner of four businesses, and also preparing for the second Nazarian Institute conference for January 2019 (a large-scale ‘meeting of the minds’ that focuses on luxury branding, marketing and growth); so it’s vital for me to prioritize and schedule each day out What is the most popular surgical procedure you see women wanting today?

Currently, the most popular surgical procedures at our office are buccal fat pad removal, labiaplasties, and body contouring.

What non-invasive procedure is your most popular?

Injectables and skincare. Just like how you never leave the dentist without your toothbrush and floss to maintain results athome, we believe the same about skincare.

What advice would you give to women pursuing a medical career?

Make sure your professional life stays on par with your personal life. If you give all of yourself away to your career, you won’t be able to find the time to create and cultivate meaningful relationships and experiences outside the office.

www.nazarianplasticsurgery.com www.theskinspot.com

R

egina Calcaterra is the author of “Etched in Sand, A True Story of Five Siblings Who Survived an Unspeakable Childhood on Long Island.” A New York Times best-seller, “Etched in Sand” brings its readers messages of resilience, optimism, brings to light the plight of foster children, and shows that no child is ever a lost cause. It portrays how we can all impact the life of a child in need in a positive manner. Due to its uplifting messages, it has been combined into high school and college curricula nationally.

Regina is the co-author with Rosie Maloney, her younger sister, of “Girl Unbroken: A Sister’s Harrowing Story of Survival from the Streets of Long Island to the Farms of Idaho.” This novel has also been integrated into college curricula.

Regina travels nationally speaking about her books’ messages, especially how we can all impact the life of a needy child.

In addition to being an author, Regina is a partner at Wolf Haldenstein. In this capacity, she represents institutional investors and health and welfare benefit funds in complex federal litigation which includes securities and antitrust litigation. She also represents individuals subject to federal civil rights litigation. Before returning to private practice, Regina served as the Deputy General Counsel to the

New York State Insurance Fund and as Executive Director to both of Governor Cuomo’s commissions investigating public corruption and the utilities in relation to storm preparedness.

Both investigatory commissions published reports that resulted in new statutory and regulatory schemes. She served as the Chief Deputy to the Suffolk County Executive Bellone prior to working for the Governor. She also assisted in the management of Super Storm Sandy and its immediate aftermath.

In keeping with her history of public service, Regina is the second vice chair to the SUNY New Paltz Foundation Board.

She serves on the advisory committees of You Gotta Believe, which is an organization that works to help older foster youth get adopted; the Felix Organization, which provides unique positive experiences for foster youth; and the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

Having received many awards, the most recent in 2018 include Champion of Civil Rights and Social Justice from the City and the State of New York, and the Women of Distinction Award from her alma mater Seton Hall University School of Law. Regina received her B.A in Political Science from SUNY New Paltz and her J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law. She is admitted to practice in several federal courts, the State of New York and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Partner and Author Wolf Haldenstein

You have lived a true-life rags-to-riches story, rising above your past. Looking back, what gave you the strength and drive to reach your goals to become a highly acclaimed attorney?

My siblings and I grew up homeless and in and out of foster homes. My childhood gave me the strength and discipline to become a fierce advocate not only for myself, but also for my siblings.

These experiences led to me becoming a professional advocate for others.

You are a lawyer, author and activist.

Which profession do you find most fulfilling and why?

All of them are equally fulfilling since they all provide me the opportunity to be an advocate. Attorneys advocate for their clients, activists advocate for causes they are passionate about and as an author I use my pen and voice to advocate for foster children.

Your two books, “Etched in Sand” and “Girl Unbroken” about your painful past have been utilized in school curriculum for middle and high school students and colleges. What do you hope younger generations will learn from reading these novels, so they can work for change?

I hope that my young readers who are facing insurmountable challenges learn that they have the inner strength to persevere. I also hope that my writings give readers perspective and compassion that leads them towards helping those suffering in their communities.

You are active on numerous boards, involved in many community activities, serve as a speaker and advocate for older children in foster care, served as a former New York State Official along

with your extensive litigation practice.

How do you balance it all?

I am now living the easy part of my life. I get to advocate nationally on behalf of foster children and practice law - all while being supported and loved by my companion Todd, sweet family and close friends. That is my balance.

What advice would you give to women starting out in the legal profession, especially those interested in advocating for social issues?

Learn how to practice law by gaining trial and advocacy experience. Then learn the area of law related to the social issue you are passionate about. Find pro bono opportunities to gain the critical experience needed to become an expert in your passion. www.whafh.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 51

President Leslie O’Hare Media

L

eslie O’Hare is the president of Leslie O’Hare Media, based in Dallas, Texas.

She is one of the leading authorities in her field as a TEDxempowerment speaker and keynote speaker. Leslie is acclaimed for her accomplishments as an Off-Broadway actress, entrepreneur, radio personality, ABC affiliate television talk show host, television director/producer/writer, theatrical director, publisher of “L The Leslie Magazine” and philanthropist. Her career spans over 20 years. She also has a book coming out soon titled “Be Bold, Be Patient, Be Alert, Be Ready.”

Whether sharing her personal story about being in an abusive relationship, abandoned by her father, rejected by her mother and society, and having to start life over at almost fifty years of age after losing her home and marriage, Leslie brings real life-changing messages to her audiences. She has become an inspiration to many by sharing her story and captivating audiences. Choosing to change her mindset, have control over her life and not allowing the circumstances in her life to have control over her has allowed Leslie to help others regain their focus and get their life back.

In addition to serving as a faith and business transformational speaker, Leslie is a master storytell52 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

er. She has a gift of being able to draw her audience into her story. She speaks from the heart with realness and humor and has made a positive imprint on the lives of many people across the country.

Leslie is best known for her long-running television talk shows in Dallas, Texas; two of which were “The Leslie Taylor Hare Show” and “The Leslie O’Hare Show.” Both shows were reflections of Leslie’s entertaining personality. The shows focused on family, empowering women and girls, human interest stories, entertainment and pop culture.

In an effort to branch out, Leslie is continuing to grow her brand by designing her own clothing and bedding collection. The brand aligns with her personal mission, which is empowering women and girls via her various designs. It was important to Leslie to launch a fashion line that encompasses luxury, sophistication and most importantly, affordable styles for women and girls of all ages.

Leslie continues to encourage women to be the champions of their own lives and live the best life possible.

You are a woman of many hats. How do you do it all?

I always say that I have 10,000 balls in the air because I am always juggling so many different things.

One of the biggest things that keeps me grounded is starting and ending my day with prayer. It allows me to keep my mind focused on what I need to do and keeps me sane. Like every woman out there, we are wives, mothers, sisters and daughters. We are CEOs of companies and we juggle so many different things. Without prayer I don’t know how I would make it.

Tell me about your media company. What made you start that company? How many years have you been in business?

I’ve had Leslie O’Hare Media since 2010. The reason I started it was because as a young child, I always knew that I was going to get into entertainment. I started out working in theatrical plays as a child at the age of five and then from about seven through 25.

I was in beauty pageants and began to realize that entertainment from a public speaking perspective and from an acting perspective is where my destiny was going. I thought one of the smartest things was to start my own company. The Leslie O’Hare Media umbrella allowed me to start my own television talk show on an ABC affiliate station and broadened my public speaking career. I wanted to empower women, be a mentor and a leader for other women.

You have a story that happened with your dad that really touched me. Can you tell us a little about that?

At the age of 14, I met my dad for the first time.

Unfortunately, 20 minutes into meeting him, he really disappointed me. I went to visit him while visiting relatives out of town. I rang the doorbell and he opened the door. He had no idea who I was and said to my cousin, “Wow, what a pretty girlfriend you have.” I looked at him very innocently (I was in 10th grade at the time) and said, “I’m your daughter Leslie.” He looked at me obviously surprised and welcomed me into his home.

Ten minutes into the conversation, we were wrapping everything up and I said to him, “Can I keep in contact with you?” He looked me straight in my eyes, with his current wife sitting right next to him, and said, “Absolutely not. I want nothing to do with you. I don’t want you to contact me ever again. My three boys that I have with my wife are

more important than you are. They are my priority.

You’re not. Not only are they my priority, but so are the two children that my wife has from her previous marriage. They’re also more important than you.

So, I’m going ask you to never contact me again.”

So that Prince turned into a frog in my face. “Who says that to their daughter?!?”

For the next few weeks, I cried like a baby. Eventually, I stood up and I said “OK- enough.” At that age, I knew I had enough confidence in myself because of the confidence my mother had instilled in me and my relationship with God. I knew that his decision had nothing to do with me and it was his loss. I knew that I was destined for greatness. So that’s what that entire experience taught me at that age.

You have a book coming out soon, “Be Bold, Be Patient, Be Alert, Be Ready.” Tell us about that.

It’s all about being bold and being fearless. I think in life we must be bold. We have to be alert. We must be aware of our surroundings. People need to be ready for every single instruction that God gives us, so we can quickly move. I really hope one of the greatest takeaways that everyone that picks it up will walk away with is knowing that in life we’re going to be thrown 10,000 balls. It’s ok if some of the balls fall. It’s ok if we fall and fail. That’s how we get back up.

What are your future goals?

One of my goals is to have a nationally syndicated talk show. I’ve been on the ABC affiliate station before. My ultimate goal- my bucket list at the top -would be to have a nationally syndicated television talk show. Another goal is to have my clothing and bedding collection sold at Nordstrom, Macy’s and also on one of the shopping channels.

What is your life philosophy?

My philosophy in life is really taking a step back, looking at your life and recognizing that you already have the tools that you need to be successful. When I talk about being successful I’m talking about being successful as an individual; as a mother, a sister, a parent, a father- and recognizing that you’re already a champion. My philosophy is to awaken the champion within and know that you were destined for greatness and that everything you need to be successful in every area of your life is within you. www.leslieoharemedia.com Booking contact for Leslie O’Hare: Edbryan@thebillionova.agency

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 53

Book

CORNER

Angela Gachassin| Autism Healed for Life When a child is tender age of two. Yet with very little diagnosed with autism, it help from doctors, Angela incorpocan come with questions, rated lifelong skills and strategies into fears, and doubts. The his daily life, which allowed him to challenges can seem inlive with endless possibilities to soar! surmountable, and many By age fifteen, Glenn had progressed parents are left feeling so far that he was a guest speaker, hopeless and unsure representing his school at a district

about what to do next. But this diagnosis is only the beginning—with hope and with faith, healing is possible.

In Autism: Healed for Life, author Angela Gachassin shares the moving chronicle of her and her son’s daily experiences as they struggle to conquer his autism symptoms.

Glenn was a nonverbal child diagnosed with severe autism at the

conference. Angela shares how she integrated speech, occupational, sensory, and food-aversion therapies together with play and other social self-care skills, showing parents how to become their child’s best advocate and mentor. Yet through it all, she reveals how focusing on the finished work of Jesus Christ can provide ultimate healing.

Glenn’s remarkable journey from severe autism to ultimate healing is a glorious reflection of the goodness of God! Take this amazing true-life journey with an inspirational, motivated, and faith-filled mother determined to help her son find his healing for autism.

Erin Oprea The 4x4 Diet: 4 Key Foods, 4-Minute Workouts, Four Weeks to the Body You Want Discover the 4 key foods and the 4-min- increased muscle definition in the arms, legs, and stomach; improve cardiovascular endurute workouts that will change the way you ance; and break sugar and sodium addiclook and feel in just 4 weeks. tions. Complete with meal plans and recipes, Celebrity trainer and former marine Erin Oprea’s motto is “lean and clean.” Her The 4 x 4 Diet is perfect for anyone looking unique 4 x 4 diet shows you how to get clean to streamline your body and lifestyle.

Erin Oprea is a NESTA- and AFAA-cerby reducing the 4 major hitches in most tified personal trainer as well as a former diets: sugar, starch, sodium, and alcohol.

She also tells you how to get lean, using her marine who has served two tours of duty in Iraq. She has been Carrie Underwood’s 4-minute tabata workouts: 8 repetitions of 20 seconds of high-intensity moves, then 10 personal trainer since early 2007, and has earned the title of “Trainer to the Stars.” She seconds of rest. currently lives in Nashville with her husband Within 4 weeks, the average person will be able to reduce bloating and belly fat; gain and two boys.

Tonia DeCosimo | Single and Not Settling In a society where it’s becoming increasAfter not walking down the aisle (as ingly difficult to find the right partner, she assumed she would) in her twenties and then hoping it would happen in her more and more people are finding themselves romantically unattached and they thirties, Tonia DeCosimo found herself are still reluctant to “settle.” DeCosimo single at age forty and couldn’t help but ask herself, “Whose fault is this anyway?” weaves together real-life stories in a web of hilarity and heartbreak, to expound on The answer, she determined, is not as straightforward as it seems. And she quick- single life in modern America—with a ly found out she’s not the only one facing sprinkling of tips to avoid those treacherous relationship pitfalls. these challenges.

Lighthearted and poignant in equal In her new book Single and Not Settling!, DeCosimo takes you through her measure, Single and Not Settling!, offers camaraderie, hope, and a real look at life in dating journey. the dating trenches.

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Gloria Allred Fight Back and Win: My Thirty-Year Fight Against Injustice-And How You Can Win Your Own Battles Voted by her peers as one of the best lawyers in America, and described by Time magazine as “one of the nation’s most effective advocates of family rights and feminist causes,” Allred has devoted her career to fighting for civil rights and has won hundreds of millions of dollars for victims of abuse. She has taken on countless institutions to promote equality, including the Boy Scouts, the Friars Club, and the United States Senate. And as the attorney for numerous high-profile clients—including Nicole Brown Simpson’s family, actress Hunter Tylo, and Amber Frey, Scott Peterson’s girlfriend—Allred has helped victims true stories serve to remind us that assert and protect their rights. winning justice depends on the Throughout her memoir, Allred righteousness of the cause and an offers colorful—sometimes shocking—examples of self-empowerment individual’s willingness to stand up, speak out, and fight back. Fight from her personal and professional Back and Win is a powerful testalife. Presenting nearly fifty of her most memorable cases, Allred takes us ment to Gloria Allred’s trailblazing deep inside the justice system to show career and the battles she has fought alongside countless brave individuhow it’s possible to win even in the face of staggering odds. Her inspiring als to win justice for us all.

About the Author Gloria Allred is the most prominent women’s rights attorney in the United States and is one of the highest-profile attorneys in the world.

She has been a television commentator on Fox News Channel, CNN, MSNBC, CNBC, and Court TV, and is a three-time Emmy nominee for her television commentary on KABC Television Eyewitness News in Los Angeles. She was rated one of the most important radio talk show hosts in America by USA Today, and has won the President’s Award from the National Association of Women Lawyers and the 1986 President’s Volunteer Action Award for her work in child support enforcement, presented to her by President Ronald Reagan at the White House. A founding partner in the Los Angeles law firm of Allred, Maroko & Goldberg, Allred lives in Southern California.

Dr. Mary J. Gallant Coming of Age in the Holocaust: The Last Survivors Remember

Coming of Age in the Holocaust is a narrative analysis of the experiences of Holocaust survivors- eighteen children, adolescents, young women and men who faced grim circumstances posed by nazi state terrorism and its genocidal social policy. These survivors, in their narratives, describe how they dealt with misunderstanding, terror and abuse. Just over fifty years since the 1933-45 period, we may still find that there is much to learn from those whose social worlds were so terribly rent by racism and wanton violence.

Vivian Lewter Loydd Biography Poetically Speaking Vivian Lewter Loydd was born January 2, 1956 to Essie B. Lewter. She has been married for thirty years and has three children and nine grandchildren. Mrs. Loydd owns two businesses, A Blessed Child Preschool for ten years, and Visions and More Christian Novelty Store for two years.

Vivian is a people person, having never met a stranger, and has an outstanding

personality. She has been an evangelist for over twenty years. She founded Upon This Rock Outreach Ministry in Lake Wales, Florida in 2005. “I Am My Sister’s Keeper, Sisters Strengthening Sisters” is a yearly retreat Vivian also began in 2005.

Vivian Lewter Loydd is truly a woman of essence.

A

s President and CEO Audra developed the national expansion of a of Ovarian Cancer support program for women Research Alliance (forundergoing treatment merly OCRFA), Audra Moran for gynecologic cancers, is the head of the largest global called Woman to Woman, charity for ovarian cancer and secured a $1 million research and advocacy. She corporate sponsorship to directs their overall strategy, ensure its success. Woman operations and fundraising to Woman is now at 35 efforts to promote progress hospitals around the counand awareness, while hastening try, expanding to at least 18 additional sites within the breakthroughs in diagnostics next three years, and serves and treatments with the ultias the perfect complement mate goal of finding a cure for to OCRA’s powerful research ovarian cancer. and advocacy work.

Under Audra’s leadership, Audra oversaw the merger OCRA has awarded the most of Ovarian Cancer Research research funding in its history Fund (OCRF) with another and has passed the $100 milnational nonprofit, Ovarian lion mark in funds raised. She President & CEO Cancer National Alliance has extended the organization’s (OCNA), with OCRFA Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance national reach by engaging launching in January of grassroots supporters around the country. She also integrated another nonprofit, Ovarian 2016. OCRFA recently shortened their name to Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA). She continues to lead Cycle, into OCRA, expanding its indoor cycling events to the now expanded organization, with offices in New York more than 23 locations nationwide.

City and Washington, DC. ocrahope.org

Anne SerranoMcClain Co-Owner | MCMC Fragrances

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aised in Rhode Island and Japan, Anne Serrano-McClain’s many travels instilled in her a great sense of adventure and appreciation of other cultures and ways of thinking.

In 2005, Anne moved to Brooklyn, New York, where she found herself surrounded with creative people. Like a flower that had to wait to bloom, she felt that she had finally found a place to call home. The energy and optimism of New York allowed Anne to follow what was, at the time, a budding passion. She turned to the fine art of perfumery after an extended interest in photography, as another way to distill an experience into something tangible, yet ethereal. Anne enjoys learning about the aromatherapeutic qualities of natural ingredients, to understand

the psychological effects that the distilled oils of flowers, resins, barks, peels, leaves and other plant materials have on the mind.

Anne graduated with honors from the Grasse Institute of Perfumery in 2009 and founded MCMC Fragrances shortly thereafter. Since its launch in April of 2010, MCMC Fragrances’ popular scents have been featured in InStyle Magazine, Vogue Magazine, the New York Times, New York Magazine, the Financial Times, and many others.

The family-owned company, which is operated by Anne and her sister, Katie, is dedicated to creating original products made with the highest quality ingredients.

Each fragrance is formulated by Anne, who studied natural perfumery and aromatherapy before moving to Grasse, the perfume capital of France, for an intensive study of the history, techniques, and practices of modern perfumery.

Based in Brooklyn, New York, all their products are carefully crafted in small batches and bottled by hand by their in-house production team. They are guaranteed to be made with love. www.mcmcfragrances.com

MONEY

Power

By Ann Margaret Carrozza Elder Law and Estate Planning Attorney

Turbo Charge Your Finances by Boosting Your Personal Power

I

define the word “POWER” as the ability to take informed action to achieve a desired outcome.

We can use proven strategies to increase our power, and thus achieve great results in many spheres of our lives.

The area that most fascinates me and to which I have devoted my career, is mastery over one’s financial life.

In his forward to my book, “Love & Money,” Dr. Phil observed that “Money problems are not solved by money alone.” To many, this seems ridiculous.

Surely a huge windfall would eliminate financial problems, right? Before answering, I’d like you to consider a sobering statistic: 70% of all lottery winners end up dead broke within a few years of the win. Based on interviews with these folks, together with observations of my 10,000+ estate planning clients, I have come to believe that if we are unable to safeguard, protect and grow $20, we will be equally out of control with $20 million.

We can create a different financial outcome by developing ‘Money Power.’ Going back to my definition of POWER, we achieve a desired result by becoming informed and taking action.

The most important source of information for growing wealth is the study of legal protections. Think about it. What does it matter how diligently I save, how skilled I am at investing, or how lucky I was in the lottery, if there is a 40% chance of being wiped out in a divorce and a 70% chance of requiring very expensive long term care later in life? Add to this, the ever-increasing volume of other types of lawsuits filed in our litigious society.

For starters, we should all consider using an Asset Protection Trust to own real estate.

“Unprotected Real Estate Ownership” leaves us very vulnerable to being sued.

A properly drafted trust, on the other hand, will safeguard the home during life and also save our children money later, by eliminating capital gains tax and the probate process at death. To guard against long term care claims, the assets must be in this trust for at least five years prior to an illness.

Next, to prevent losing assets in a bad break-up, we MUST consider a relationship agreement. To get married today without a prenup is INSANE. This is especially true in a second marriage where we must balance the shelter needs of a surviving spouse with the long term interests of adult children. Without a prenup, my surviving spouse will inherit my house, and regardless of what he says now, will NOT ensure that my kids ultimately receive it upon his later death.

Think cohabiting partners can opt out of legal protections? No one needs them more. Without a cohabitation agreement, will, and/or trust, I will be at the mercy of my partner’s relatives upon his death. Will they let me continue living in my partner’s home? I shouldn’t count on it.

Are happily married couples free from the need for a post-nuptial agreement?

Not by a long shot. The wills of married couples almost always leave everything to the surviving spouse. What happens to the assets when that surviving spouse remarries? I recommend that all married couples create a limited post-nuptial agreement which requires a

surviving spouse to enter into a prenuptial agreement in advance of a future remarriage. This will ensure that your children, and not someone else’s, ultimately receive the wealth that you are working so hard to build.

With some information under our belts, it is time to circle back to our definition of POWER and take action.

A first step is to get some recommendations from a good asset protection attorney. Another sure-fire way to generate powerful forward momentum is to surround yourself with a community of dynamic, intelligent and action-oriented people. Through your association with P.O.W.E.R, you have already accomplished this step!

Ann Margaret Carrozza is a practicing Elder Law and Trusts and Estates attorney who also served as a NYS Assemblywoman for 14 years. She is a legal contributor to Dr Phil and other TV shows and is the author of “Love & Money: Protecting Yourself from Angry Exes, Wacky Relatives, Con Artists and Inner Demons”- available on Amazon. She can be reached at 718.224.4746.

www.myelderlawattorney.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 57

P.O.W.E.R.FUL

Winter Cleaning Tips

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any of us usually deep clean the house in the spring time. However, consider the fact that we are indoors most of the winter months.

During this time, we track in salt, ice melt, and a lot of dirt in general. Trying to keep heat from escaping also means we have a lot more dirty air circulating throughout the home than in the summer when windows and screen doors are more apt to be open.

Here are some deep-cleaning tips for the winter to keep your home well-maintained and improve your indoor air quality as well.

Furnace/Oil Burner

Put in a service call to have your furnace or oil burner serviced and cleaned. This could help you avoid a more expensive problem due to breakdown and parts failure later, especially in the dead of winter.

changed. Make sure the flue is clear and clean out the ashes.

Refrigerator

While we usually clean out the refrigerator before major holidays, it is a good idea to make this part of Air Filters your monthly and seasonal cleaning routine. KeepIf you have air filters in your home, you should ing the shelves clean keeps harmful bacteria at bay. change your HVAC filters every three months to Tossing out old and expired food is important for ensure your air stays clean. If you haven’t changed your health and to keep from having odors. Using them in a while, do so and put a note with the very hot water with a little bleach will keep germs date on the bottom. away and ensure your fridge sparkles. You should also keep an open box of baking soda in the back of Chimney You should have a chimney service come every two the refrigerator to absorb odors.

You can save $5 - $10 per month by cleaning dirty to three years. While there is no real rule for when refrigerator coils. To clean your fridge coils, first unto clean a chimney, if you do use your fireplace a plug your fridge, then, locate the coils either on the lot, there is a chance of creosote buildup which can be dangerous. Also, keep in mind that pests such as back or bottom of the unit. You may need to gently squirrels, raccoons, birds and mice love finding warm pull the refrigerator out to reach the coils, so make sure to vacuum behind the fridge while you have places to live that make for expensive problems if access. Use an old paint brush or special vacuum atthey’re not addressed. tachment to brush off dirt and dust. Vacuum again, Heat Registers then use a damp rag to remove any stubborn dirt.

You should vacuum the heat registers and baseDeclutter boards. Before doing so, turn the heat down and Decluttering may seem like a daunting job, but make sure the surface is not hot. Remove the if you have lots of piles of unopened mail, newspafaceplate and using the brush attachment on your pers, clothing and junk lying around, you are giving vacuum, clean the tops, sides and underneath. dust more places to settle. Go through your home Wood Burning Stove If you use a wood-burning stove, it is a good idea room by room. This is a great opportunity to clean out closets, drawers, shoe racks, and find all those to buy your cords ahead of time to help offset the things you forgot were lying around. A general rule expense rather than waiting until the weather has of thumb regarding clothing and shoes is that if you haven’t worn it in a year, you aren’t going to wear 58 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

it. If you haven’t used something in the past three should take this opportunity to clean the window months, you probably don’t need it. Either donate it treatments like curtains and valences, which can to a worthy cause or put it in a storage space. hold large amounts of dust and allergens. Be aware Dryer that many window treatments are made with delDryer vents can be a major fire hazard, especialicate, expensive materials, so rather than taking a ly in dry winter months. Lint buildup cannot be chance and ruining them in the washer, drop them avoided. Disconnect the back pipe if possible and off at the dry cleaner and have them professionally using a vacuum, remove the lint from dryer vents. cleaned.

You may have to invest in a dryer vent snake or Stove/Oven special brush, but better $20 than a fire! Once you Because many of us grill in the summer, winter remove as much lint as possible, run the dryer for means much more stove and oven usage, which about ten minutes to flush any loose lint out. means more spills and grease accumulation. Start

Kitchen

We all think we keep a clean kitchen, and many of us are lucky enough to have a ‘cleaning girl’ or crew, but how often do you wipe down your cabinets and drawers? When was the last time you emptied out your kitchen drawers and put new drawer and shelf liners in your cupboards? In addition to clearing out some clutter and getting rid of dirty liners, this is a good opportunity to go through that junk drawer as well. You may also want to consider getting your knives sharpened professionally, checking the expiration dates on your spices and going through your pantry to get rid of expired food.

Carpets

You should regularly vacuum your carpet to keep visible dirt from building up, and you should consider renting or even buying a steam cleaner to refresh your carpets, couches and chair cushions. If you have older carpets that need a serious deep-cleaning due to pet odor or staining, you may want to hire a professional company for an intense shampoo treatment.

early in the morning and use your oven’s self-cleaning function to remove grease and burnt food.

Make sure to open a few windows due to smoke and be prepared for your fire alarms to go off.

Fire Alarms

This is a good opportunity to replace the batteries in your fire alarms throughout the home if you have not done so. If you do not do this regularly, try to do so during Daylight Saving in the spring and fall.

Clothing Drawers

When cleaning out your clothing drawers, you may want to replace sachets to keep clothing smelling fresh. You can purchase potpourri and pour some into knee-high stockings, tie the tops and place them in your closet if you cannot find a sachet. You can even make your own by drying scented flowers, lemon and orange peel.

Laundry

When running your weekend laundry, you should make it a point to wash your pillows, comforters, blankets, mattress covers and bedskirts room by room. If your throw pillows unzip, wash those as Windows well according to the directions.

Besides the winter months being gloomy, dirty winRather than getting the winter blues, keep yourself dows block sunlight and make it darker inside your and your family occupied by having a clean, decluthome. Grab a couple of microfiber towels from your tered and well-maintained home. If you conquer local dollar store and a spray bottle. Mix one room per week or weekend, by the 2 cups of water with 2 tablespoons time spring arrives, you will have a of vinegar and a tablespoon of sense of accomplishment and can lemon juice. Mix well. Scrub now enjoy the outdoors. the inside and outside of your windows to brighten up Special thanks to your home and allow more Clair Jones and sunlight in. www.improvenet.com While you’re in window cleaning mode, you

Rising

STARS

Fran T. Romero Owner and Consultant Diva Business Solutions Fran T. Romeo is the owner of Diva Business Solutions, a Florida-based company that provides a variety of small business solutions for start-ups and small businesses nationally including web design, web development, business consulting, branding, e-commerce web design, web site updates, logos, graphic design, promotional products, video marketing, blogging, social media, SEO and copyrighting services.

With almost 30 years experience, Fran oversees the operations of the company and serves as a consultant. She is a branding and promotional product specialist, marketing consultant, and commercial printer, with specialties in web design, web development, and graphic design. Fran belongs to the eWomanNetwork Foundation, I.A.W. and B.N.I. organizations. In her spare time, she enjoys golf and fundraising. divabusinesssolutions.com

Marilyn E. Maze Psychologist, Principal PsyCoun Institute

Development Association. She has organized the annual APCDA Conference since its inception, Marilyn E. Maze, Ph.D., is a conducted numerous research presenter and developer of trainprojects on hot labor market ing materials, who has worked and career counseling issues, and in education, non-profits and presented at international conferfor-profit environments for over ences. Previously, she developed 40 years. She designs effective the ACT Profile. training materials for specific popMarilyn is a fellow of the ulations and has created and deNational Career Development veloped materials used by millions Association and won their Presiannually to develop career goals dent’s Award and the Credentialand enhance interpersonal skills. ing Commission Service Award in She has trained at high school, 2016. She also earned the Lifecollege, and graduate levels, and at time Achievement Award from domestic and international conthe Maryland Career Developferences and webinars. Marilyn ment Association in 2010. serves as a principal of PsyCoun In addition to mentoring her Consultants and is the executive colleagues, Marilyn is responsible director of the Asia Pacific Career for recognizing the developmental

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

needs of individuals and groups, setting clear learning goals, providing training for counselors and conducting workshops for corporate talent development. She develops and organizes workshops for specific groups, develops the website and manages the business aspects for PsyCoun.

PsyCoun.com

Sara Anne’s Trends SUGGESTED

Vacation Trend Winter Getaways According to the popular travel site, IntrepidTravel.com, winter will become the new peak season!

A recent study found that 79% of Americans would consider an overseas trip during the winter, and 53% of them would not be seeking a change in weather – suggesting a majority of winter travelers aren’t motivated by warmer temperatures.

In fact, winter festivals around the world attract millions of visitors, such as China’s Harbin Ice Festival which had over a million visitors last year. The number of hotels opening in or around the Arctic Circle is increasing as well, including a new hotel in Northern Sweden.

By Sara Anne Fingerman Contributing Writer

Fashion Trend Tartan is the New Black Tartan is back and this time around, it’s not going anywhere. The once outdated trend had announced its triumphant return amidst major runway shows last season.

The pattern was found scattered all over dresses, skirts, coats, pants and even accessories.

Décor Trend

Barware Line created by Women for Women Chic & Tonic is an accessible line of products for the bar and kitchen with a cheeky and retro cool vibe, designed to make entertaining a truly happy Family Sitcoms are Backhour. Chic & Tonic challenges the norm of masReality Shows are Fading culine barware products that cater to a mostly male When Netflix brought back the Fullers, a remake audience by bringing women products with a classy of the popular late 80’s comedy Full House, soon and feminine edge. after many networks jumped on the nosCurrent Chic and Tonic products include: cocktalgia TV bandwagon. In this digital era, tail shakers, stemless wine tumblers and stainless people crave the wholesome comedy steel reusable straws! For the full line of products, they grew up with and the writers are visit chicandtonic.com. delivering!

Will and Grace, The Connors and even Murphy Brown hit the small screen last year. Frasier, Mad about You and ALF are slated to air this year!

What show would you like to see?

E-mail us and let us know! My pick would be Friends, The Nanny and Dr. Quinn MediP.O.W.E.R. Magazine Magazine || 61 29 P.O.W.E.R. cine Woman! sarah@powermagazine.com

What’s Streaming?

Dr. Patricia Broderick Founder | The Broderick Brain Foundation Medical Professor | CUNY School of Medicine Dr. Patricia A. Broderick is a medical professor with CUNY School of Medicine, CCNY. In addition to her approachably intriguing teaching career at the Medical School, she is a staunch researcher. Dr. Broderick is the founder of The Broderick Brain Foundation, which is dedicated to funding training for medical, doctoral, masters, undergraduate, and high school students, as well as professors, doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers in the unending quest to discover how the brain works. As the inventor of The BRODERICK PROBE® nanobiosensors and owner of their trademark, she developed and patented this series of nanobiosensors as well as the electrical circuits to direct the sensing work of the nanobiosensor. Whereas all patents are assigned to the innovative company she founded, Eazysense Nanotechnologies Inc., in concert with The City University of New York Technology Commercialization Office, a portion of her patents are assigned to New York University. Eazysense Nanotechnologies Inc. holds unlimited franchisee rights to the BRODERICK PROBE® via the Indian Dept of Franchise while Japan’s franchisee holds market rights for the BRODERICK PROBE®; the brand name for the product is EASYSENSE. The BRODERICK PROBE® nanobiosensors image dynamic changes in neurotransmitters in vivo and in real time, on line.

Neuromolecular Imaging (NMI) during successful intraoperaHow did you get started in your field/ industry?

I just dived in. The swim has been refreshing, scary and exciting.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

I am not so sure that it is the glass ceiling that we are facing that makes the obstacles. I believe I have met the glass ceiling head on with the invention of the BRODERICK PROBE® and

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

tive surgery in the brain of the epilepsy patient with New York University Institutional Review Board Approval is, in reality, the first translational nanobiotechnology for the millennium and beyond.

With a broad and integrated educational background including post-doctoral positions at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Cornell Medical Center, Dr. Broderick earned her B.S. from St. Thomas Aquinas College in 1963, her M.S. from Fordham University in 1970 and her Ph.D. from St. John’s University in 1979. She has written numerous book chapters, and peer reviewed prestigious articles in the neurodegenerative and psychiatric as well as sensor journals. Dr. Broderick serves as an editorial member of the board on more than twenty scientific and medical journal boards. She is a member of the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, The Society for Neuroscience, The Association for Women in Science, The Electrochemical Society, and The American Epilepsy Society. Dr. Broderick enjoys her family and her work. With her unusual way of multitasking, using her knowledge, being outgoing and having a kind personality to relieve and alleviate problems, Dr. Broderick stops everything to tutor students and assist families of patients with brain disorders.

the franchise. I think there are no sex differences in this respect. The resources are fewer and far between making a genre of more anxiety over money than ever. As an inventor, I feel differently than others. This takes a creative brain, a thinking out of the box, guts, a “take it on the chin” attitude.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

To inspire, to lead, to motivate, to

make a difference in the world, to make a significant advance in science and medicine, to do what the world says I have done. Yes, I have made a significant difference in and for the world. I have empowered people to follow my lead, follow my inventions, follow my path to success step by step, and always do so with a smile.

www.eazysensenanotechnology.com www.eazysensationalbrainimaging.com www.eazysense.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 63

E M P O W E R E D

Doris Day

Candace Giles

Taylor Anne Levy

Jacqueline D. Sanders

Sherry LaRowe

Vickie D. Naney

Cheryl D. Hooten

Annette Hadley

Cassandra Cho

Elonda Y. Hatter

Stella L. Jones

Jane Cebrynski

Althea P. Davis

Christine Truitt

Cindy Liu

Jaisha Morris

Laura Davis

Lisa Todd

Victoria I. Fonseca

Sue Lee

Micheline Avril

Rebecca E. Dieringer

Tranisha Rene Dangerfield Darlene K. Edwards

Theresa Damaso

Sophia Allen

Day Dermatology & Aesthetics Great Creations DOCTOR TEACHER Inter Tallahassee HOSPICE EXECUTIVE

Northcentral University PSYCHOLOGIST VAMC HEALTH PRACTITIONER The Davis Group INSURANCE AGENT Marriott International SALES MANAGER NetApp, Inc. SALES MANAGER

Jane Gariepy Jane Gariepy EDUCATOR

Tess-Marites Lankovich Tess-Marites Lankovich ARTIST

Monalisa Ferrari

Ferrari and Associates International, LLC CONSULTANT

Dannette Smith

Modern Accentz HEALTH PRACTITIONER

Kim Johnson

Veterans Administration Hospital NURSE

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Ascension Lifving NURSE

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Natasha Beslin Royalbinature SALES MANAGER

Butterfly Ministries FOUNDER Primerica GENERAL MANAGER Mary Kay CONSULTANT

Todd Architects, Inc. INTERIOR DESIGNER Dieringer Law Group LAWYER US Bank MORTGAGE BROKER

Theresa T. Witherspoon Head Start EDUCATOR

Latarsha Holden

Three Elements, Inc. EDUCATOR

Bernice Graham A Trinity Solution IT SPECIALIST

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Immortal Ornaments LIFECOACH

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TXU Business Marketing MARKETING/ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

Queens DESIGNER

Cheryl’s Specialty Shop BUYER Kittens Knit’s Kakes & Kookies BUSINESS OWNER Skytrade, LLC IMPORTER/EXPORTER Olin Corporation PLANNER/COORDINATOR

LB Lyte Consulting Co. ACCOUNTANT

Crystal Choplick The Good Dog Inn OWNER/OPERATOR

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The Lazy Gym ESTHETICIAN

S.A. Rasool Corporation OWNER

PreciousPlayHouse SALES MANAGER

Nina Schmidbaur Nina Schmidbaur THERAPIST

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Dreamcatchers WRITER

Nancy A. Burrell Freelancer NOTARY PUBLIC

Debony R. Hughes

Maryland Department of Health DENTIST

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Jane Cebrynski DIRECTOR

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Abundance Art® LLC ARTIST

Somali Bantu Association of America EDUCATOR

The Palladium Times MARKETING/ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

Otterbein Home Health

Truvision Productions CAMP DIRECTOR

Millennium Residential Home Inc. SOCIAL WORKER

Jennifer Dearman Jennlin1791 AUTHOR

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E M P O W E R E D

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Regina F. Cole

Denisha Dasha Williams

Stefy Does Hair COSMETOLOGIST

Daunz Dollhouz HAIR STYLIST

Grace Vaughn

In The Real World PUBLISHER

Mary Surrena

Culebra Casita Tropical REALTOR

Gloria A. Brown

Historical Cultural Museum Inc. EDUCATOR

Gloria Knoll

Colorado Primary Care Clinic HEALTH PRACTITIONER

Lora Mayo-Brown

Mayo & Brown Catering LLC CATERER

Barbara McFadden BJS Graphix and Gifts GRAPHIC ARTISTY

Shawna Edmonds

All About You Salon LLC COSMETOLOGIST

Ernestine S. Moreno Elderbiz CONSULTANT

Beverly Johnson Claim Fund WRITER

Kinyata Barnett

Preciousmemori SHIPPING SPECIALIST

Susy McMillen

Champion Income Tax Inc. TAX PREPARER

Laura Greco Build N Care CONSULTANT

Daphne Clarke-Hudson

Marquee Global Coaching & Professional Development PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT COACH

Christine Bates

White Rabbit’s House OWNER/SALES

Fancy Lipz Cosmetics NURSE Edison School of the Arts EDUCATOR

Jocelyn E. Jeriah Jocelyn Jeriah SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Deborah E. Johnson

A&D Complete Cleaning CLEANING Euphoric Hands Theraputics

By Deni, LLC MASSAGE THERAPIST

Sharrette Arnold Melissa Y. Zales

Kathy Anderson

Linda Sanicola

DuziScan, LLC FASHION/FITNESS

Vanessa R. Lefebvre

Vanessa Lefebvre Hair Design HAIR STYLIST

Casandra S. Cole

These Lips R Sassy - By Cassie COSMETICS

Jessica Floyd Mary Kay BEAUTY

Sandi Alex-Saunders WSLP Publisher AUTHOR

Kathryn M. Griffin

We’ve Been There Done That DIRECTOR

Phyllis A. Jimerson

Heavenly Sweet Treats BAKER

Phyllis S. Lyons

GuideOn Education Consulting LLC EDUCATOR

Dr. Linda Sanicola, Psychologist PSYCHOLOGIST

Linda Kolanko

Cruise Planners: Linda Kolanko TRAVEL AGENT

Theresa Betler

Sivad’s Daycare Educator

Alison D. Mosley

Kristine Delahunt-Haag Almost Heaven Rescue COUNSELOR Twain’s Twines FASHION DESIGN

Eunice DeShields Sharon Horton

Sharon Accessories OWNER

Josephine McNeill SmileKrafters DENTAL HYGIENIST

Melissa Baker

White Lion Real Estate, Inc. REALTOR

Sheila Brock Missy’s House NONPROFIT

Tanya Gonzales-Perez

Juliette Gonzalez

SE Pipeline Construction ACCOUNTING

Florence Walker

Joy Martin

Angelica Jones

Dawn Terrick

Raneisha I. Washington

Artech SENIOR PROFESSIONAL IN HUMAN RESOURCES

Angela C. Dailey

Partylink Group Inc. HOSPITALITY STAFFING

Vividly Posh Events EVENT PLANNER

Cathy J. Kirk

Cathy Jo Cleaning Services LLC CLEANING

EnRemmon FOUNDER

Megann L. Frankhouser Hallmark RETAIL

Repar Golf and Driving Range PG&E EDUCATOR CLERK

Blum’s Swimwear & Intimate Apparel STORE OWNER

TINY TOTS KINGDOM DIRECTOR

Africa Prince Abbey, Inc. CONTRACTOR

Twain N. Revell

Amanda Ratliff

Cherie Alleyne

Physician’s Integrative Laboratories DOCTOR

Ashley M. GorbuljaMaldonado

Freelancer CONSULTANT

Elaine D. Babb

Dawn Terrick Branding BRANDING SPECIALIST

Kimberly Langdon M.D.

A&C Auto Care AUTOMOTIVE

Hell in the Hallway Tee Shirt Company SALES MANAGER Meadow Heights R-II TEACHER

St. Raymond’s Elementary School TEACHER

Candy M. Bazzi

Arnold Family Care EDUCATOR

D. Mitchell’s Group Transitional Center CONSULTANT

Rosina Lim

Madeline Rivera

Freelancer Beyond Blessed Beauty Salon BROADCASTING COSMETOLOGIST

Jennifer Hamburger

Bessemer Police Department LAW ENFORCEMENT

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 65

E M P O W E R E D

Amy D. Bing

D’Kendra Griffin

Arianne Burress

Carolyn T. Herbert

Fearless Freedom HUMAN SERVICES Wal-Mart Pharmacy PHARMACY TECHNICIAN

Claudette Deer

Cdees Cleaning LLC CLEANING

Jacque Foreman

Foreman Graphics GRAPHIC ARTIST

Lula Brown

First Class Tax Service FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Dhanha C. Bien-Aime Yes I Have an Opinion AUTHOR

Theresa McCoy-Carpenter Health Law Compliance & Service NURSE

Janis Johnston

Problem Solving Systems PSYCHOLOGIST

Branea L. Kinloch K&B Cleaning CLEANING

Renee Moyer NVT Staffing RECRUITING

Michelle Lewis

Chick-Fil-A FOOD SAFETY AND TRAINING DIRECTOR

Debbie Mormino

The Cami Queen of New Orleans RETAIL

Evelyn Ormond Color Me Red ARTIST

Jusan Luckett Jones GorgoFX.MKUP EDUCATOR

Dawn White

Dream Fabulash COSMETOLOGIST

Herberts Wine Jelly, LLC FOOD

Caroline Luzze

Anita Bright

A & J Private Investigations/ Brighter Attitude Gift Shop PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR

Judy Sahagian Judy Networks EVENT PLANNER

Boys & Girls Clubs of South Puget Sound HUMAN RESOURCE GENERALIST

Melani S. Brown

Schirlyn Kamara

Edna Cavitt

Hands on Hope DIRECTOR

MSGL Enterprises, LLC ASTROLOGER Keller Williams on the Water REALTOR

Veronica Fuget

Trish F. Willis

Amanda R. Ayala

Kristen L. McCaleb

Roxanna Wilson

Anna B. Sadowski

Lighthouse Law Club LAWYER Omega Protective Services MARKETING/ADVERTISING SPECIALIST Royalty Builders LLC FINANCIAL ADVISOR AND REAL ESTATE

Lenora Dee Sutton-Kpa DOT City of Chicago CLERK

Cynthia Baas

FedEx QUALITY ASSURANCE Little Diva Soap Shop LLC & Boutique RETAIL Anna’s Place AirBnB AIRBNB BED AND BREAKFAST

Wendy Johnson Boatelope WEDDING VENUE

Gloria B. Gertzman

Blue Grace Logistics SALES MANAGER

Gloria B. Gertzman Dentist and Dental Office DENTIST

Jennifer M. Short

Gloria D. Dunklin

Navasota Independent School District EDUCATOR

Sangita Datta

New York Life FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Marla Nicholes

Chamblee Charter High School EDUCATOR

Polly G. DellaCrosse Duval County Schools EDUCATOR

Barbara A. Lester

Elissa Jeanne

Santoro Center for Breast Health and Disease Management at Saint Barnabas Medical Center DOCTOR

Mary J. Ardissone Mary J. Ardissone HOME HEALTH AIDE

Glenda W. Reitzell

Grace Space Charity THERAPIST

Allison B. Findeiss

Ally Bee Design MARKETING/ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

Gwendolyn D. Buchanan Independent Distributor with Herbalife DISTRIBUTOR

Brandy L. Bock Brandy L. Bock VIRTUAL ASSISTANT

Stephanie E. Strawbridge

Strawbridge Memorial Chapel FUNERAL DIRECTOR

Alberta S. Cotner Freelancer AUTHOR

Adriana E. Babino iPRESIDIUM IT SPECIALIST

Bevin E. Smullen Kean University LIBRARY ASSISTANT

Barbara Steingas

Barbara Steingas HEALTH PRACTITIONER

Secured Roofing and Restoration LLC PROJECT MANAGER

Bobbi Brown

Nancy Woller Wright

Connie Harris

Gloria Allred

Theresa D. Springer

Manjusha P. Sheobaran

Nicholes Transportation Service LLC TRANSPORTATION Patterson Air Force Base CONFIGURATION MANAGER A Naturally Healthy You PHARMACIST

MyEcon RETAIL

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Consovelia Harris CONSULTANT Greymatter Risk Management SALES MANAGER

Beauty Evolution LLC COSMETOLOGIST Allred, Maroko & Goldberg (AM&G) LAWYER

Samantha M. Ruth Never Give Up PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Parvaneh Rafaeloff Le Jolie Medi Spa COSMETIC SURGEON

E M P O W E R E D

Linda K. Holt

Chrissy DeLoughrey

Natasha M. Artis

Barbara A. Sheedy

Erin Oprea

Chrissy Haux

Perla Lichi

Karen A. Roulette

Dallas Prince

Shari Zamarian

Monica E. Rodriguez

Vanessa Y. McKinney

Sireka G

Rosanne Sorrentino

Lenora M. Robinson

Cynthia K. Mayweather

Dr. Lenora M. Robinson CONSULTANT

Taxi Productions MARKETING/ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

Chaka Phelps

Nokita Beck-Temple

M.L. Peggy Wells

Michele C. York

Linda K. Holt FINANCIAL ADVISOR Oprea Fitness FITNESS TRAINER Dallas Prince Designs JEWELER 1st Loyalty SJT NOTARY PUBLIC Freelancer HOME HEALTH AIDE

Yvette Best

Best Services Unlimited LLC ACCOUNTANT

Shannon McShane Freelancer LIFECOACH

Kerri Garrison

HealthNow New York Inc HEALTH INSURANCE EXECUTIVE

Diane Neustadt

Forest Hills Financial Group EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Erika Seaborn

Blessed Inspirations LLC INSURANCE AGENT

Gashbeen Ahmad Freelancer DENTIST

Alyssa Greiner

Spin360 Media Group CONSULTANT

Sharon Gertzman

Serenity Medical Spa DOCTOR

Jane Caruso

JCARUSO LLC INVESTMENT ADVISOR

Kim Vogel

Base Venture PRESIDENT

Virginia Dori

CMO-on-Demand Consulting CONSULTANT

Energy Services Group SAAS TECHNOLOGY

PineCone Vision Center BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Purdue University GLOBAL EDUCATOR

North Middle School EDUCATOR

Swag Empowerment LLC CONSULTANT

Marlaina Curtis

A1 Concepts Ltd TDA Marlaina’s Kitchen TELEVISION PRESENTER

Anna Vila

Fresenius Kabi QUALITY ASSURANCE

Rockwood Companies ACCOUNTANT

Perla Lichi Design INTERIOR DESIGNER

Roulette, LLC WRITER

Market Axess CREDIT ANALYST

Freelancer CONSULTANT

Steve White Motors SALES MANAGER

Barbara A. Pierce

Jenica N. Nathaniel

Practicalherbs.com HERBALIST

New Ground Security LAW ENFORCEMENT

Sandra L. Baca

Kathleen Jorgenson

Universitat de Barcelona TEACHER

The Wright Choice Learning Center EDUCATOR

Felicia Odumosu

Nevlyn Grace Nicholson

Talent Bureau Limited CONSULTANT

NextLevelArms US Next Level Arms ARMAMENT SHOP

Norma McLauchlin

Chosen Pen Publishing LLC PUBLISHER

Ruby H. Hernandez

Crossville Elementary School EDUCATOR

Priscilla Treadaway

Esperanto Developments ACCOUNTANT

Maggie A. Khoury Century 2 Beachside REALTOR

Ana R. Perez

Primerica Financial Services & Investments FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Shamekia N. Davis

Boston Children’s Health Physicians ADMINISTRATOR

STRIDE Human Resources and Organization Development Consulting CONSULTANT

Betty D. Seltzer

Fran T. Romeo

Diva Business Solutions CONSULTANT

Dream Seekers Talent Management TALENT MANAGER

Marilyn E. Maze PsyCoun Institute PSYCHOLOGIST

Sharon L. Badger

Mary M. Willy-Lozano TruHealth by Mannatech RETAIL/NUTRITION

Kathy Bowen-Fisher

Cumberland County College COUNSELOR

Barbara J. McNeal Zurvita CONSULTANT

Shay’s Boogies CONSULTANT

Neco Beasley

House of Neco HAIR STYLIST

Esther M. Bevels B E Smith CONSULTANT

Heather Sharpe

Parminder K. Bajwa Sindy N. Fondren

TF Jorgenson Business Management Partnership/ 1st Choice Management Services, LLC REALTOR

Demetra Y. Elder-Williams

Farmers Insurance Betty Seltzer Agency INSURANCE AGENT

Pam Imports OWNER

INSURANCE AGENT

The Cone Zone OWNER

Lorraine H. Painter Care Therapies, LLC THERAPIST

Healthy Image Dental Group, Inc. DENTIST

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Rita A. Williams

Georgina F. Young

Alexis Rodriguez-Alvich

Paula M. Turk

Linda Rosa

Anne Serrano-McClain

Faith Beauty Shop/World Fitness Georgina Young, M.D. PERSONAL TRAINER PSYCHOTHERAPIST FITTEAM GLOBAL LIFECOACH

Brenna L. Treadway Le-Vel Thrive SALES MANAGER

Patricia Broderick

LMR Consulting CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP SPECIALIST

Carol Salzberg

Caregivers of Ocean County CAREGIVER

Easysense Nanotechnologies JoAnn P. Tessmer Inc. / The Broderick Foundation Racine Clipper Beauty Salon BIOMEDICAL IMAGING HAIR STYLIST

Harper Grey Consulting PUBLICIST MCMC Fragrances PERFUMER

Corina Langford

Southern Technical College EDUCATOR

Joycelyne Lew

Final Print ENTERTAINMENT/PRINTING

Sudipa Biswas

Carol A. Stormer

Nikki J. Tsou

Sherri Covington

Jeannette M. Wright

Laurie M. Johnson

Julie L. Goodwin

Harvard Risk Management LEGAL ASSOCIATE

Swirl Studios MARKETING/ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

Olimpia I. Ramirez

Ruth E. Reed

Jacqueline T. Bowser

Jackson Therapy Partners OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST Education Management SENIOR PROFESSIONAL IN HUMAN RESOURCES Revenue Cycle Solutions LLC CONSULTANT Juan Castro State Farm OFFICE MANAGER

Anna Colla

Gems of Health and Wellness DIRECTOR

Pamela A. Sattiewhite

United Methodist Church LIFECOACH

Sandra T. Perez

M & A Human Capital FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Pamela Lynn Curry

Lipsey Logistics EQUIPMENT COORDINATOR

Starr L. Farrish

Starlight Tax Service, LLC TAX PREPARER

Brooke Eden Walsh

Walsh & Dry Services, LLC CLEANING

Roncaglia K. Gibson Jackson

The Single Parent Program of Leon County & Surrounding Areas COMMUNITY SERVICE

Cal-American Corporation REAL ESTATE AGENT Life Changing Career Academy LLC EDUCATOR

Neighborhood Citizens of Northwest Ocala, Inc. ENVIRONMENTAL

Jo Ann Lockridge

Eye Surgery Center of Chattanooga PATIENT CARE REP.

Tarrah L. Spooner

Lous River - Bar and Grill RESTAURANT

Betty Burden

Bom Hognadottir Rottweilers and German Shepherds DOG BREEDING

Lisa T. Williams

Nature Loving Soaps RETAIL/SOAP

Patricia Sokolich

City of Houston PUBLIC HEALTH

Kimberly L. Jones

Darline Moore

Sustainability Management Partners ENERGY

Dana Heartman

Foundation Coaching Group LIFECOACH

Stacy H. Brown

Northside Elementary School EDUCATOR

Marsha L. Gehle

Advanced Composites, Inc. GENERAL MANAGER

Vanessa R. Williams

Beyond Mink Hair Extensions HAIR PRODUCTS

University of New Mexico Hospital Surgical Technologist

Kathleen A. Calli

Abbey LeVine

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I.Am.I., LLC COMMUNITY SERVICE

Ellen Sirot

Sirot Skincare HAND MODEL/SPOKESPERSON

Shelia Fields

Galveston College EDUCATOR

Anita Bains

Anita Bains PSYCHOTHERAPIST

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Sharman C. Sowell

Queensway Motorcoach OWNER/OPERATOR

The Outdoor Toystore SALES Brick Board of Education EDUCATOR

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Pizza Ranch RESTAURANT OWNER

Brian Whitney 1964 IT SPECIALIST

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Kennesaw State University EDUCATOR

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Junaid Akhtar company DOCTOR

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Law Office of Patricia A. Sokolich LAWYER

Ivana Durovic

Lacman Logistics MANAGER

OSHA COMPLIANCE ASSISTANCE SPECIALIST

Linda Angel

Ruby H. Hernandez

Sandra E. Patnode

Angels Wedding Center WEDDING PLANNER

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Crossville Elementary School EDUCATOR

Barbara Bray

Rethinking Learning EDUCATOR

WestCare GulfCoast-Florida, Inc. COMMUNITY PROGRAM COORDINATOR

E M P O W E R E D

Catherine L. Clarkson

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Sonya Harris Saunders

Sherrie M. Gray

Caren Peyton

Linda LaFine

Normajean Valdez

Sophia Ruffin

OTC Global Holdings DIRECTOR Coldwell Banker REAL ESTATE AGENT

Jane Malecki

Glass Ceiling Warriors PRESIDENT

Melissa Porterfield Silk Mountain CONSULTANT

Veronica A. Wright Nu Concept Courier and Logistics Inc. COURIER

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Family Enterprises ELDER CARE

Franchesca R. Evans Freelancer DIRECTOR

Remax Platinum REALTOR LD Communications Answering Service COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Suzanne Constance Salus Prime LLC CONSULTANT

Linda C. Hair

J&L Property Solutions, LLC CONSULTANT

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Laura A. Cunningham WOAECIM Inc. PASTOR

Lois E. O’Daniels

U.S. Government ADVISOR

Alliance Insurance INSURANCE AGENT

Sherrie Gray Consulting CONSULTANT Alabama State Department of Education EDUCATOR

Shelley A. Krasnick

MaryBeth Yannessa

Freelancer RESEARCH

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A-1 Cool Tint by Sun-Cool Inc. Roben D. Hunter AUTOMOTIVE/CONTRACTOR Hunter Advisors PLLC LAWYER

Tifea Huey

LaShonda Jackson

Homeland Staffing SECURITY

USPS UNION

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Pinnacle Building Services DIRECTOR

Dawn Colleen Herdendorf

Esther Fortunoff

Fortunoff Fine Jewelry JEWELER

Judy A. Conner

TeeMark Manufacturing Inc. ACCOUNTANT

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Elegant Edge Hair Salon & Day Spa COSMETOLOGIST

Ethicon, Division of Johnson & Johnson ENGINEER

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Valerie Heston

Diamond Athletics EDUCATOR

Forevermore MARKETING/ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

Debi Blair

Ghezal Gonzalez

Tina Jackson

Elizabeth John

Diane P. Rogers

Karen L. Trocke-Kandah

Leslie D. Rich

Julie J. Coffey

Gina Stavropoulos

Christine Garner

Norma McLauchlin

Kameryn Lambert

Martha Garcia

Jeanette A. Camacho

Dulene Amilcar-Pierre

Anelise Feinstein

Wendy Richards

Jacqueline A. Anim

Sanctuary at Tuttle Crossing NURSE Advanced Disposal ACCOUNT MANAGER/RETENTION Wells Fargo Private Mortgage Bankers BANKER

Meca B. McLendon

Ava’s Creations TEACHER GG Tax Services TAX PREPARER

Karen Kandah Pet Sitting PET SITTING

Lady G Health & Wellness Inc. NURSE

Cynthia JE Saarie

That Butta Baby SKINCARE

Freelancer FISHING

Women’s Resource Center DIRECTOR Chosen Pen Publishing WRITER

All Seasons Carpet Cleaning CARPET CLEANING PURE CONSULTANT

Wings of Lyfe FOUNDER

Amazing Rare Rubies RELIGION

A Treasured Moment

by Martha EVENT PLANNER

Deia R. Aubrey

Sharon R. Lintzman

Sharon R. Lintzman, D.D.S. DENTIST

The Diller-Quaile School of Music TEACHER

Dixie A. Madsen

Susan Silverman

Vivian Lewter Loydd

Natacha Daring

Allene Schwartz

Elizabeth Horton Sheff

US Army PHOTOGRAPHER Dixie Madsen AUTHOR

Maggie B. Patralski MJM Framing and Construction LLC CONTRACTOR

The Women’s Tax Resolution Center, Inc. DIRECTOR

Natoshia Hailey

Event Entertainment Enhancement EVENT PLANNER

JC Painting PAINTER

A Blessed Child Pre-School EDUCATOR Make Music Happen MUSIC TEACHER

Health Sciences Charter School EDUCATOR Freelancer EDUCATOR

Sheff Movement MOTIVATONAL SPEAKER

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 69

Woman

OF THE YEAR

Leona W. Ayers, M.D. Academy Professor of the Emeritus Academy Ohio State University, Department of Pathology 70 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

D

r. Leona W. Ayers, M.D. is currently an academy professor of the Emeritus Academy at The Ohio State University in the Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, in Columbus, Ohio. She stepped down from her full tenured professorship to join the Emeritus Academy in 2015. She holds a Certificate of Qualification from the American Board of Pathology in Clinical and Anatomical Pathology and has special expertise in infectious diseases pathology and research interests in HIV/ AIDS related malignancies. Dr. Ayers taught pathology to medical students, pathology interns and residents, and medical technology students. While part of the graduate school faculty, she directed 26 graduate and professional students.

In addition to being an esteemed member of the medical staff of the Wexner Medical Center, Dr. Ayers is part of the consulting medical staff at The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Center where she has held various directorships and practiced pathology in the areas of

clinical pathology, medical microbiology and infection control.

She currently holds medical staff privileges as a “Physician Scholar.� She is a member of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and has been honored as an Outstanding Microbiologist in 1982, awarded the Earline Kutscher Memorial Lectureship in 1991, selected as Foundation Lecturer for the National Foundation for Microbiology Lectures Program for 19982000 and was elected to the OSU Emeritus Academy in 2014.

Dr. Ayers has been funded by National Cancer Institute grants for the last 24 years. These grants were given to support her research interests and HIV/AIDS related cancer diagnosis capacity building in the U.S., sub-Saharan Africa and India. As a principle investigator of the NCI MR AIDS and Cancer Specimen Resource, she organized and implemented the Sub-Saharan Africa Lymphoma Consortium with pathologist participants from East Africa, West Africa, South Africa and Europe. Dr. Ayers served as a leader in the first workshop in

How did you get started in your field/industry?

Duke University accepted me into the second year of the medical class of 1967 as a transfer from the Duke Graduate School. At that time there were very few women in medical schools, so Duke accepting me was the critical opportunity for which I am very grateful.

What do you think are some of the challenges that women of today face?

In any profession you are a professional, not a woman or a man. Your success or failure should come from what you can accomplish professionally and not your gender. Behavior must be profes-

India on Research Methodologies for the study of HIV/AIDS associated malignancies. Throughout her outstanding career she has been an invited speaker for 256 presentations at regional, national and international meetings and workshops, presented or published with colleagues 239 abstracts/posters at national and international meetings, 114 peer-reviewed Journal articles and 14 book chapters. She has held memberships and served on the College of American Pathologist, American Association of Clinical Pathologists, International Society Biological and Environmental Repositories and the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology.

After obtaining her B.S. in Zoology in 1962 from Duke University, Dr. Ayers graduated with a M.D., with Honors, from Duke University School of Medicine in 1967. She has been inducted into the Duke University School of Medicine Half Century Club. For the past 10 years she has served as PI of the Cooperative Human Tissue Network, MV Division, Grant (HTN/NCI/NIH).

sional with no exceptions in the workplace. Do not fall victim to the power and politics of all workplaces!

What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry?

This is an industry I would not recommend unless you have a deep and abiding love for humankind as well as the emotional stability, intellectual curiosity and drive to keep you going when times get tough. Healthcare including patient care at any level is not an industry for the weak or faint of heart.

pathology.osu.edu/ext/faculty/ayers.html

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