P.O.W.E.R. Magazine Fall 2019 by Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized

2019 FALL ISSUE

Breast Cancer is Unacceptable Breast cancer kills more than 42,000 people each year in the U.S. That’s unacceptable. Join us in reducing the current number of breast cancer deaths by half in the U.S. by 2026. JOIN OUR FIGHT. SAVE LIVES. komen.org/unacceptable © 2019 Susan G. Komen®.

Where the end of breast cancer begins.™

Paula Schneider President and Chief Executive Officer Susan G. Komen®

s President and CEO of Susan G. Komen®, Paula Schneider is responsible for the strategic direction and daily operations of Komen’s research, community health, public policy advocacy and global programs. Paula brings a personal perspective to Komen’s mission as a breast cancer survivor whose mother died of metastatic breast cancer. “I know from personal experience the devastation of breast cancer, and the power and impact of the Komen mission to end it,” she said. “I am determined to do all that I can to build on this iconic organization’s mission to end breast cancer, for everyone and forever.” Paula is regarded as an expert in organization management and finance, serving as president and CEO of American Apparel and Delta Galil

Premium Brands and as president at Warnaco Swimwear Group. Previously, she served in strategic advisory roles at the private equity firm, The Gores Group. A featured speaker at Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Summit in 2016, Paula was named one of Los Angeles Business Journal’s 500 Most Influential People for 2016. She was also honored with the National Association of Women’s Business Owners Inspiration Award in 2010. As Komen’s president and CEO, Paula is responsible for the world’s largest breast cancer research portfolio (almost $1 billion in funding to date), and a network of more than 60 Komen affiliates serving millions of women and men in the U.S. and globally. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and playing tennis. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 3

How did it make you feel when you were named president and CEO of Susan G. Komen®, the world’s largest breast cancer organization? Like many of my colleagues, I was drawn to this organization because of my personal connection to the cause. For me, not only am I a breast cancer survivor, but I lost my mother to metastatic breast cancer and I have two daughters. Those experiences ignited a fire to serve. I began as a volunteer fundraiser for breast cancer causes and events. The more I did, the more I realized I wanted to do. So, when I was given the opportunity to lead Susan G. Komen, it was an absolute calling for me. How has the transition been from working in the private sector to a nonprofit? When I was in retail, I used to joke with my teams that it’s not like we’re trying to cure cancer – now I can’t say that. I am lucky to work with a group of very passionate people who care deeply about our cause. Many of my colleagues are survivors. Some are currently undergoing treatment. Others have a family member who has undergone treatment, is living with metastatic breast cancer or have lost someone they love. This is very personal, and with that comes a commitment to go the extra mile. Please update us on your mission to end breast cancer. What strides have been made? There has been tremendous progress against this disease in the three and a half decades since Susan G. Komen was founded. We have been able to move the disease out of the shadows, educate women and men about the disease – what to look for and how to advocate for yourself with your doctors – increased early 4 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

What advice can you give to someone who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer? First, remember that you are stronger than you think you are. It’s going to be hard. There will be days where you will just want to stay in bed or on the floor of the bathroom all day. That’s ok. There is no shame in this. You didn’t do anything to cause this. Second, do your homework and listen to your gut. When you first hear the words, “You have breast cancer,” you often don’t hear anything else. Take the time to seek out information so that you can be your own best advocate. And if something doesn’t feel right with what you are being told, get a detection so we can get people into second opinion. treatment sooner, and have developed What does the word empowerment more targeted, effective treatments. mean to you? The combination of these things has In the context of breast cancer, led to a 40% reduction in the mortal- knowledge is power. We seek to ity rate for breast cancers in the U.S. provide women and men with all since 1989. the information they need to have Despite this progress, there is informed conversations with their so much more to do. More than health care providers and to feel 42,000 women and men are expectempowered to take charge of their ed to die each year in the U.S. from treatment journey. metastatic breast cancer. To us, that Name one outstanding quality number is not just a statistic. It is that you think people should know made up of our mothers, sisters, about you or that you want to be fathers and friends. They are people remembered by. who deserve a chance to live longer. I think one of the strongest That’s why we have set a bold goal qualities I have is a willingness to of reducing the current number of embrace change. I ask our teams to deaths in the U.S. by 50% by 2026. constantly think about new ways of To accomplish it, we are focusing doing things. How can we evolve to our research efforts on developing operate more efficiently, reach people breakthroughs for the most aggressive in new ways that match with their treatment resistant breast cancers, as changing lives and preferences, think breast cancers that have metastasized. creatively about partnerships and At the same time, we are focused on how we engage in our mission? We ensuring all people can access timely, cannot move forward by doing what quality care – particularly African we’ve always done, so we have to be American women who are 40% more willing to try new things and if we likely to die from breast cancer than fail, fail fast and move on. white women. ww5.komen.org

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Table

OF CONTENTS

Toniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Talk

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Features P.O.W.E.R. Publicity

P.O.W.E.R. VIP List

Book Corner

Jaclyn Smith is an award-winning actress, designer, businesswoman and role model who has held the public interest for more than four decades.

Cover Story

Empowered Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s List

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Jaclyn Smith Women of Distinction | Lifetime Achievement Samantha Ruth, Dr. Patricia Broderick

Women of the Month | Lifetime Achievement Chimene Van Gundy, Michele Briscoe

Lifetime Achievement Awardees

Dr. Leona Ayers, Marjorie Graf, Alberta Cotner

Women of the Month

18 22 25 34

Special Cancer Awareness Issue Survivor Stories

Paula Schneider

Suzanne Somers

Dr. Susan Palleschi: EmPOWER Yourself with Knowledge of Breast Health & Disease

Cancer Assistance

PHONE NUMBERS, WEBSITES AND HELPFUL INFORMATION

From

Fran Drescher

Cancer Quotes

Lance Armstrong: “We have two options: give up or fight like hell.”

! e v i v r u S ll i W

Three Women:

Jolene Wahl, Maria Culhane, Cat Stephenson

A Day at The Hampton Classic

Lidia’s Kitchen

The famous chef shares her story and Thanksgiving recipes

Ashley Borden’s S.O.S. Food Plan

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 7

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 CONTROLLER Maureen Meagher EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Nicole Crumb ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Julia Abreu Shari Brozinsky Anna Rose Cameron Helene Kaye Sari Meyer Renee Rosenfeld Michele Siemion Jacalyn 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 otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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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ctober is breast cancer awareness month and this issue of P.O.W.E.R. Magazine is devoted to women who have cancer and for those who are survivors. It is hard to understand the emotional and physical pain this disease causes unless you have been through it yourself or with someone close to you. Both my father and sister had cancer. My sister is a two-time survivor of both uterine and breast cancer. Her faith, positive attitude and support from family and friends are what got her through this disease. The women we showcase in this issue who are cancer survivors did not allow this disease to stop them from pursuing their goals and dreams. Many have even said that surviving it has led them to start or join foundations or write books to help others fight the fight. Jaclyn Smith, our cover girl, is an award-winning actress, designer, businesswoman and role model. Her breast cancer was found through her yearly mammogram and led to a lumpectomy and radiation in 2002. She remains vigilant about her follow-up care. Jaclyn says her family has served as her inspiration and stresses that no one should go through cancer alone.

Actress, Director, Producer and philanthropist Fran Drescher is a 19-year cancer survivor, having been misdiagnosed for two years by eight doctors. Fran wrote her book, “Cancer Schmancer,” founded the Cancer Schmancer Movement whose mission is to educate, prevent and activate patients and was instrumental in passing the Gynecologic Cancer Education and Awareness Act of 2005. In 2001, Suzanne Somers, actress, author, singer, businesswoman and health advocate, was diagnosed with breast cancer, had a lumpectomy and radiation, but declined to undergo chemotherapy. After being misdiagnosed with inoperable cancer, she interviewed doctors about cancer treatments and those interviews became the basis of her controversial book, “Knockout,” about alternative treatments to chemotherapy.

Talk

TONIA’S

Paula Schneider is the president and CEO of Susan G. Komen®, the world’s largest breast cancer organization. She is a breast cancer survivor, diagnosed in 2007, who lost her mother to metastatic breast cancer in 2010. She is determined to do all that she can to build on this iconic organization’s mission to end breast cancer. There is so much that is still unknown about cancer and not every type has recognizable symptoms. You know your body better than anyone. Keep asking questions and pursue testing. Learn all you can from survivors. Stay strong and be positive. Along with our survivors, we are always proud to feature women in all industries and professions who empower and inspire us every day. We are women of P.O.W.E.R.!

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

We are Long Island’s first and largest center of excellence in breast reconstruction. Specializing in: • Post-mastectomy breast reconstruction With a Patient Empowerment Program to

support patients prior to and after mastectomy

• Cosmetic surgery • Aesthetic and skin care

About Dr. Randall Feingold Dr. Randall Feingold is a plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction for 25 years. He is the director of plastic surgery at St. Francis Hospital in Roslyn, NY, as well as clinical associate professor of Plastic Surgery at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. Dr. Feingold is a nationally recognized expert in breast reconstruction, providing natural tissue options using microsurgery as well as all implant-based options. He has lectured on breast reconstruction at national and international conferences, and has served as the James A. Lewis visiting professor in plastic surgery. He has also written multiple articles published in peer-reviewed journals, as well as textbook and atlas chapters on advanced techniques in breast reconstruction. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Feingold is a co-founder of BreastReconstruction.org, a comprehensive web resource for women facing mastectomy. For his dedication and leadership in the field, Dr. Feingold was honored by the American Cancer Society with their 2007 Physician of Distinction Award.

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Annette Pennington

nnette Pennington is a licensed medical aesthetician and skin care specialist with Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, PC. She specializes in analyzing, refreshing, and rejuvenating patient’s skin. She offers many different spa treatments including: ultherapy, CoolSculpting, IPL, laser hair removal, facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and home care products. Annette customizes all treatments according to each patient’s individual skin type.

Annette coordinates skin care services with the doctors in the practice. This includes preoperative skin conditioning before

Licensed Medical Aesthetician NYBRA/Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, PC chemical peels and facelifts, complimentary postoperative makeup to conceal bruising, and postoperative ultrasound after liposuction, breast augmentation and breast reconstruction. She also does nipple tattooing after reconstructive breast surgery. Annette is a graduate of St. Vincent’s Hospital School of Nursing. She received her aesthetic training at the New York Institute of Beauty on Long Island and is licensed by the State of New York. She brings her years of medical experience and her compassionate nature into practice daily. She is a certified volunteer with the American Cancer Society’s “Look Good…Feel Better” program which teaches skin care and makeup techniques to cancer patients to help assuage the visual side effects of some cancer treatments. Annette is committed to providing the safest, most advanced medical aesthetic services and products available. Her goal is to educate, treat and meet the needs of each and every patient on a personal basis.

Mollie Sugarman

Clinical Director, Patient Empowerment Program NYBRA/Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, P.C. is vital when faced with the myriad of ollie Sugarman is the clinemotions one experiences when conical director of the Patient fronting a cancer diagnosis, a genetic Empowerment Program at mutation for breast cancer, mastectothe New York Breast Reconstruction my or reconstruction. In 1972, Mollie Associates (NYBRA/Aesthetic Plastic was appointed an instructor of Surgery, PC) in Great Neck, New psychiatry at New York Medical York. With over 40 years experience, College. The following year, she she brought her extensive background was awarded an Honorarium from to the practice and created a unique the Psychiatric Society of New York and integrative approach to caring for Medical College. Mollie’s former women and men undergoing mastecprivate practices focused on individuals tomies and subsequent reconstruction. dealing with serious illnesses, difficult This new medical model is part of a It’s obvious to anyone who works life transitions, and couples’ issues. patient’s overall treatment plan and She was also honored with the Mari serves to address an individual’s emo- with Mollie that she is passionate about her work. She strongly beGoldberg Award in 2014 by the Lean tional needs in preparing for surgery lieves that a nurturing environment On Me Breast Cancer Network. and for their restoration.

Theresa Scolaro

heresa Scolaro is a physician assistant with Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, PC of Great Neck, New York. Born on Long Island and raised in Bayville, Theresa attended Catholic elementary and high schools. She received a B.S. in Biology from Fordham University in the Bronx. Her intense interest for medicine piqued in high school and after learning more about the PA profession, she graduated with a M.S. in Physician Assistant from Touro College in New York City. As a result of spending more and

Physician Assistant NYBRA/Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, PC more time in surgery on her clinical rotations, Theresa developed a passion for plastic surgery and started her career there. She’s been in the field ever since and loves her job. She enjoys the time in the operating room, educating and helping her patients in the office, and working alongside her fellow attendings and PA’s. Theresa has been with the practice for over five years November. She loves spending time and feels blessed to make a difference with her fiancé, enjoys seeing friends in the lives of women with breast and family on the weekends, cooking, cancer every day. Recently, Theresa reading, physical fitness and travel. got engaged and is looking forward www.aestheticplasticsurgerypc.com to her wedding in New York City this P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 11

Susan M. Palleschi

M.D., FACS

r. Susan Palleschi is a surgeon specializing in diseases and surgery of the breast. She was born and raised on Long Island. From an early age, Dr. Palleschi aspired to become a physician. She yearned to combine her love of science with her desire to help people. After graduating from high school, she matriculated at the University of Pennsylvania where she earned her B.A. in Biology, graduating magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. She then attended medical school at SUNY Stony Brook School of Medicine. During her clinical rotations, she was intrigued by the field of surgery. After earning her medical degree, she

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completed her internship and residency in general surgery at the prestigious Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Palleschi initially enjoyed the diversity of general surgery, but soon she found herself drawn to the field of breast surgery. Breast surgery embodies many different facets that together culminate into a very special field in which Dr. Palleschi feels privileged to practice. She appreciates the meticulous technical aspects of breast surgery as well as the physiology and pathophysiology of breast disease. But above all, she treasures the very special relationships that she develops with her patients who entrust her with their care. At the start of her dedication to breast surgery many years ago, she attended a breast cancer patient event. She was deeply moved by the evening. She recalls saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;As much as I think that I give to my patients, my patients give back to me so much more.â&#x20AC;? It is her patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; strength, courage, resilience and appreciation that inspires her every day to strive to provide the most exceptional care to them. She views her relationships with her patients as a lifelong personal commitment to monitor and maintain their breast health and well-being. Dr. Palleschi emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with her patients. When a patient comes in for consultation, whether for the evaluation of abnormal breast imaging, a new breast symptom, genetic predisposition, positive family history, a diagnosis of a breast condition requiring surgery, or a new diagnosis of breast cancer, she spends time evaluating, educating and counseling her patient. She knows that this education will empower each patient to make the most appropriate decisions about their breast health and care. Recently, Dr. Palleschi was honored at the Lean On Me Sixteenth Gala Dinner Dance in May of this year. Her practice is located in Great Neck and she has admitting and operating privileges at North Shore University Hospital at Manhasset, North Shore University Hospital at Glen Cove, Long Island Jewish Medical Center and St. Francis Hospital. She is board certified in general surgery, and she is a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons and the Massachusetts General Hospital Alumni Society.

EmPOWER Yourself with Knowledge of Breast Health and Disease

By Susan Palleschi, M.D., FACS ctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which increases breast cancer risk. means it is an opportuniIt is important to perform selfty to educate ourselves on breast breast examinations and to bring health to emPOWER us with the any concerns to your health care knowledge we need to understand provider. The following signs and breast cancer statistics, risk factors symptoms warrant clinical evaluation for breast cancer, signs and sympby a healthcare provider: breast mass toms of breast disease, breast cancer or thickening; nipple discharge that screening guidelines, and breast is bloody, or any nipple discharge cancer prevention. that is spontaneous; nipple inversion Approximately 1 in 8 women that is new or changing; dimpling or in the United States, or 12%, will retraction of the breast skin; and skin develop breast cancer over the changes, such as thickening of the course of her lifetime. 1% of all skin, swelling of the skin or redness. breast cancers will develop in men. Breast pain or tenderness is very Encouragingly, the death rate from often benign and is not commonbreast cancer has decreased. This ly associated with a diagnosis of better survival is attributed to treat- breast cancer. Nonetheless, you ment advances and earlier detection should bring any and all breast through breast cancer screening. concerns to the attention of your There are several risk factors health care provider. for breast cancer. 99% of breast Breast cancer screening is vital for cancers occur in women. Age is the detection of breast cancer. The a factor. Growing older increases goal of screening is early detection, one’s risk for developing breast which then correlates with an earlier cancer. Women who are overweight stage at diagnosis, better prognosis are at an increased risk for breast and potentially less aggressive treatcancer. A woman’s risk of breast ment. Women should start screencancer increases almost twofold if ing mammograms at 40. Screening she has a first degree relative who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Approximately 5-10% of breast cancers are genetic. The most common mutations are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. A woman with a BRCA mutation has up to an 87% risk for developing breast cancer. BRCA mutations are also associated with an increased risk for ovarian cancer. Increased breast density is associated with a slightly increased risk of breast cancer. The use of postmenopausal combined hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

mammography has been proven to save lives through early detection. Based on a women’s risk factors for breast cancer, some women may start screening mammograms at an earlier age. Women with dense breasts on mammogram may benefit from screening ultrasound. Breast MRI is recommended for women at high risk for breast cancer, such as BRCA carriers, patients treated with chest wall radiation at a young age and those patients with an estimated lifetime risk greater than 20%. All women should continue screening as long as they remain in good health with an average life expectancy of 10 years or longer. There are some steps you can take to limit your risk. The American Cancer Society recommends exercising 45-60 minutes a day for 5 or more days a week. Strive to maintain a normal body mass index (BMI). Avoid smoking and avoid or limit alcohol use. Avoid Hormone Replacement Therapy. Tamoxifen and other similar medications are used to treat women who have had breast cancer. It is also used to prevent breast cancer in high risk women. These medications reduce the potential risk of breast cancer by approximately 50%. This knowledge of breast cancer statistics, risk factors, signs and symptoms of breast disease, breast cancer screening, and breast cancer prevention will position us to optimize our breast health, help us to recognize the potential signs of breast disease, and allow for earlier detection with better outcomes related to the diagnosis of breast cancer. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 13

uzanne Somers is one of America’s most popular and beloved personalities. In a multifaceted career spanning more than three decades, she has achieved extraordinary success as an actress, singer, comedienne, New York Times bestselling author, Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year, entrepreneur, and lecturer. She is the voice and face of alternative medicine. Her most recent book, “Two’s Company: A Fifty-Year Romance with Lessons Learned in Love, Life & Business” (Harmony, November 2017) was her most personal, intimate, and inspiring title yet. She received raves for her bawdy, fun, romantic show “SUZANNE Sizzles” in residence at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino and hit the dance floor with ABC-TV’s “Dancing with the Stars” 10th anniversary season. Suzanne received an Emmy nomination as Outstanding Host for “The SUZANNE Show,” her weekly onehour health specials. She is a founder of ForeverHealth.com, an online resource to connect patients with doctors specializing in natural hormone therapy, and a partner and ambassador for LifeWave.com. Her first big break as the mysterious blonde driving the white Thunderbird in George Lucas’ 1973 cult classic, “American Graffiti” was soon followed by her portrayal of the ditzy, yet lovable Chrissy Snow on “Three’s Company,” which propelled her to national fame. During her five years with the show, Suzanne helped make the sitcom one of the most highly rated in history. From 1987-1989, she held the title character role in the hit series “She’s the Sheriff,” and from 1991-1997, starred with Patrick Duffy in the situation comedy series, “Step by Step,” which ran for seven seasons. She also hosted her own daytime talk show, “The Suzanne Somers Show” and was the weekly co-host of “Candid Camera” from 1998-2000. Suzanne is the recipient of two People’s Choice Awards for Favorite Actress in a New Television Series in both 1978 and 1992. Suzanne’s one-woman, musical autobiography, “The Blonde in the Thunderbird,” debuted on Broadway in a limited engagement at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre in Summer 2005. In 2010, she brought one of her most popular talks on aging and wellness to a national cinema audience with “Suzanne Somers’ BREAKTHROUGH Tour.” Suzanne has authored 26 books, including 14 New York Times bestsellers, five of which were #1 New York Times

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Actress, Entrepreneur, Author bestsellers. She has created a branded product line which is available on her web site, suzannesomers.com. It includes food, cook’s tools, beauty, fashion, jewelry, and fitness products. She launched SUZANNE Organics, her lines of luxurious anti-aging and nourishing skincare and body care, organic all-natural hair care, and organic makeup that are organic and Certified ToxicFree®. A master of the informercial, she introduced her Somersize products to consumers on the Home Shopping Network in 1992, quickly becoming one of HSN’s biggest success stories as a top-selling, trusted brand name. After 17 record-breaking years at HSN, Suzanne brought her products to ShopHQ. She also sells her products successfully at QVC with her RestoreLife Vitamins and Supplements and her show, “A New Way to Age.” Additionally, Suzanne is the owner of the line of ThighMaster personal fitness products, with more than ten million products sold. Recognizing her outstanding success and noting her as a pioneer in the electronic retailing industry, the Electronic Retailing Association presented Suzanne with its Lifetime Achievement Award in September 2005. Suzanne’s most recent telefilm work includes the lead role in the USA Network movie, “No Laughing Matter.” She starred in “Devil’s Food,” a 1996 Lifetime made-for-television movie, and produced and starred in “Seduced by Evil” for the USA Network in 1994, “Exclusive” for ABC-TV in 1992, as well as “Keeping Secrets,” an adaptation of her autobiography for ABC-TV. Her television and feature film credits also include “Happily Ever After,” “Nothing Personal,” “Sky Heist,” “Yesterday’s Hero,” “Serial Mom,” “Hearts of Stone,” “The Darklings,” and “Say It Isn’t So.” In January 2003, Suzanne was recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She was the 1999 Hall of Fame Inductee of Books for a Better

Life, which honors the year’s most outstanding self-improvement books. In 2000, she received the Rick Weiss Humanitarian Award for her ongoing fundraising efforts for AIDS-related projects. Suzanne’s other honors include the 1997 KNX Woman of the Year award for her contribution to the research, education, and prevention of alcoholism in families; the first R. Brinkley Smithers Award, established in 1995 to honor a chief architect in the field of alcoholism research; and the 1993 “Mother of the Year” award from The National Mother’s Day Committee in New York City. Suzanne received the Humanitarian Award from the National Council on Alcoholism, and the Distinguished Achievement in Public Service Award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She has served as National Honorary Chairperson of the National Association for Children of Alcoholics twice and, most notably, was the first layperson named to the American Psychiatric Foundation’s board of directors. She also served on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Advisory Council to the secretary of Health and Human Services. A sought-after commencement speaker and lecturer on the topic of aging, achieving peak health, and motivation, Suzanne has spoken to audiences of up to 50,000 people. She is the founder of the Suzanne Somers Institute for the Effects of Addiction on Families. Suzanne and her husband, Alan Hamel, whom she first met in 1968, are something of an anomaly in Hollywood, having enjoyed an enduring relationship for more than 50 years. Together, they have two sons, a daughter, and six grandchildren. They live in Los Angeles, where they oversee a manufacturing and marketing company that annually produces more than 1,000 products that are marketed globally.

MikeAzriaPhotography

Q&A with suzanne

In your role as Chrissy Snow on “Three’s Company,” you portrayed a blonde sex symbol. Do you have any mixed feelings about playing that stereotypical role? None whatsoever. She was lovable and had a moral code; the audience knew what she would and wouldn’t do. She was a delicious character. When I got the part, I thought long and hard about how to do a likeable and loveable dumb blonde. I believe I achieved that. You became the spokesperson for the extremely popular ThighMaster. You look amazing. Are you still using it today and what other workout techniques do you recommend to stay fit? Of course; it’s great for the inner thighs and pelvic floor. Funny story: we were looking for an angle on the commercial to sell the original ThighMaster. I had bought a very expensive pair of heels. I walked up to my husband in my underwear and heels and said, “How do you like my new shoes?” He said, “Wow, great legs!” I said, “That’s the commercial!” It started with the camera on those shoes and panned up with me praising the ThighMaster. My workout includes the ThighMaster, the ButtMaster, yoga every other day, walking and hiking. I keep it simple and I eat right. You were diagnosed with stage II breast cancer and post-surgery decided to forgo chemotherapy. Why? I approach life from a natural perspective. The idea of loading my body with chemical poisoning made no sense. Instead, I used the protocol of Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez, which I wrote about in “Knockout” and “TOX-Sick,” to clean the body and feed it right. It involves no chemicals, organic food only, low to no sugar, and low grain. It’s the best decision I ever made. Here I am, 20 years later with no evidence of disease. For me, I won. Years after your first diagnosis with cancer, you were misdiagnosed with inoperable cancer by six doctors. Tell us about this experience and what advice you would give to women getting a cancer diagnosis today? I thank God every day that I had the courage to turn down chemotherapy because it was a complete misdiagnosis. Six doctors were wrong. One even said, “I’ve never seen this much cancer in a person,” and I was told I should get my things in order. Imagine what that does to you! I didn’t have cancer. I had been deliberately poisoned with succinylcholine in my drink, as I wrote in “Knockout” and “TOX-Sick.” It put me into anaphylactic shock and almost killed me. You have to listen to your gut. This is not advice; it’s just what I did and I’m glad. Your books, “Knockout” and “Ageless” are loved by many; however, there is also a lot of negative press and comments by the medical field about them. How has this affected the validity of your books? I don’t tell people what to do. You can ask yourself, “How’s your way working?” I have interviewed the best and the brightest, and in my books, I present another option. I went natural, avoiding all drugs unless absolutely necessary. Many appreciate my message. There will always be critics. One thing I’ve learned as a celebrity is to develop a thick skin and listen to my gut intelligence. How does it feel to be a “Grandma” of three while still remaining a sex symbol for generations? I’m the new kind of grandma. Those grandmothers of our childhoods were wonderful loving ladies we all loved so much, but life today is very different. We’re living longer. I want to live life with quality by replacing hormones, replacing my nutrients and minerals, eating organic food, living clean, having love in my life, and remaining sexual hopefully up to the very end. It’s a beautiful thing and a new chapter I never expected. And my grandchildren love having a young grandmother.

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

MikeAzriaPhotography

Tell us about your latest book released in 2017, “Two’s Company: A Fifty-Year Romance with Lessons Learned In Love, Life & Business.” Hollywood is known for breakups and yet, we lasted. It’s a beautiful love story and I’m more in love with my husband today than I was 50 years ago. We’ve had highs and lows but we never gave up. My husband is kind, smart, sexy and funny. I love his company. We are in business together and are always asked, “How do you to do it?” We work together to create these businesses, so love and business and business and love are like a “figure 8.” It never begins and it never ends. It’s absolutely wonderful. We really are “Two’s Company.” What made you decide to start your new organic makeup and skincare line, SUZANNE Organics? SUZANNE Organics toxic-free line of skincare, hair care and makeup was a natural extension of my writing … my brand. I try to avoid chemicals at all costs. The skin is your largest organ, and chemicals in creams eventually enter your blood stream. Toxic-free living can be life-changing and the difference between having a long life of quality or having one of disease. It’s a choice. What does the word empowerment mean to you? I learned about empowerment when I got fired unfairly from “Three’s Company.” I had the audacity to ask for salary commensurate with the men on TV. Men were making ten to 15 times more than me and I was on the #1 show in the country. Instead of becoming embittered, I got the “I’ll show you’s.” My husband and I decided to work only for ourselves. Our first foray was the ThighMaster, which has sold over 10 million units and still sells. We never looked back. That is empowerment. I am in charge and in control. What do you want to be remembered by? And, what is something people don’t know about you? I want to be remembered as someone who used fame for the better good while having fun doing it, and for giving back. I want people to know how grateful I am for the life I am living, that I wake up and thank God daily for the love I have in my life, my beautiful marriage, that I love my work, that I love living in America, and that I love my great health. What most people don’t know about me is that I was discovered in the NBC Commissary by Johnny Carson in 1973. www.SuzanneSomers.com

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

P.O.W.E.R. Recognizes Kari R. Wilson

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.

P.O.W.E.R.

Publicity

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 | 17

Lifetime

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Samantha Ruth

Transformational Psychologist

amantha Ruth has over 20 years experience in the mental healthcare field. She is an author, trainer, speaker, and transformational psychologist, as well as the founder and president of Samantha Ruth, formerly known as Never Give Up, which provides services internationally. Samantha offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of her client’s individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for.

Samantha has years of experience working with a wide range of mental health issues. Since relocating to Colorado in 2014, she has devoted her energy towards increasing her education, experience and overall knowledge so that she can provide the best services possible. She promises to provide clients with a safe and confidential environment so they can work together towards accomplishing their goals. Clients work with Samantha individually or in one of her exclusive groups. She helps them from the comfort of their home regardless of their location. There is full confidentiality and she provides secure online safety. Samantha works with clients via email, telephone or video. Being extremely holistic, she provides several alternatives to medication, looking at natural solutions first such as nutrition. She is a co-author of Kate Butler’s fifth book in the inspired impact author series, “Women Who Illuminate,” which launched on August 28th. Her chapter is titled “Infinite Love.” She has also added several new services to her business including professional accountability partner, individual services, group services, group plus individual, and public speaking. What Samantha is most proud of is the Whole Lotta Love, The James Lincoln Ruth Foundation she created to honor her husband, which changes lives through love. After obtaining a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Samantha obtained her M.A. in Psychology from the Center for Humanistic Studies in Detroit, Michigan. She has written several articles in her field. She was recently certified in “tapping,” and hopes to offer this modality of therapy in schools. She is also a Certified Canfield Success Trainer. While living in Michigan, Samantha specialized in individual, family and group counseling. She also provided trainings, speaking engagements and crisis management for schools and companies, which is something she still loves doing today. She worked at The Common Ground Sanctuary, Livonia Counseling Center, Oakland Psychological Clinic, and Great Lakes Psychology Group. When Samantha moved to Denver, she learned how large of a need there was for digital services. This led her to create Never Give Up. In her spare time, she enjoys being outdoors with her two dogs, Sassy and Dallas. 18 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

How did you get started in your field/industry? I’m one of the rare breeds who always knew I’d be in a ‘helping’ field. It started with babysitting, coaching sports and continued from there. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? The stigma surrounding mental health prevents some from seeking help they need and deserve. What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed? Never give up! Find mentors to help guide you. Believe in yourself. What does the word empowerment mean to you? To give individuals the power to take control of their lives, make them stronger and more confident. What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why? I bought a copy of “The Success Principles,” by my mentor, Jack Canfield. It applies to every aspect of life, and is what I wish I learned in school, while growing up. What advice would you give your younger self? Never stop playing. Listen to yourself above all the outside noise. Be you, not who you “think” you should be. Celebrate everything about yourself that is different and uniquely you. samantharuth.com wholelottalovefoundation.com

Dr. Patricia A. Broderick Founder, The Broderick Brain Foundation and Medical Professor, CUNY School of Medicine

r. 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 intraoperative 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. How 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 the franchise. I think

Award

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

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.

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 | 19

esigner, CEO, and philanthropist Kendra Scott started her company in Austin, Texas in 2002, with only $500. Going door-to-door to Austin boutiques armed only with a tea box full of her jewelry, Kendra captivated businesses and customers with her vibrant personality and unique eye for design.

Known for her dynamic use of color and genuine materials, Kendra’s commitment to innovation, quality and detail has brought her from a small start-up to a billion-dollar business which has won over loyal fans, media and celebrities alike. With over 2,000 employees, Kendra boasts a thriving web business and has over 90 brick and mortar stores. She has expanded into the categories of fine jewelry, home décor, and beauty. Her company continues to operate out of Austin, Texas. Kendra firmly believes in embracing the spirit of philanthropy in all she does. Since 2010, the company has given back over $30 million to local, national and international causes. In 2018 alone, the company gave over $5 million in monetary donations, almost $10 million in in-kind donations, over 2,000 volunteer hours to philanthropic organizations, and partnered with more than 8,000 philanthropic organizations nationwide. Kendra has been awarded with the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2017 National Award; the Breakthrough Award from the Accessories Council Excellence Awards; named Outstanding Mother of the Year by the Mother’s Day Council; awarded Texas Businesswoman of the Year by the Women’s Chamber of Commerce; listed by Forbes as one of America’s Richest Self-Made Women; Top 100 Entrepreneurs of the Year by Upstart Business Journal; and Best CEO by Austin Business Journal. She is a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America and maintains her position as Chairman of the Board of Kendra Scott, LLC.

Kendra

Scott

You have expanded your product line by adding fine Designer, CEO, Philanthropist | Kendra Scott, LLC. jewelry, home décor and beauty products. What’s next for the Kendra Scott brand? I always say the sky is the limit! As always, we are continuing to bring our customers more of what they love from our brand – bold colors, genuine stones, and quality details. Where do you find inspiration for your jewelry designs? I often find the most inspiration in my travels. When I visit a new destination, I love to take in landscape and the architecture, and imagine how I can capture that in our jewelry. Family and fashion are the two core pillars of your business. Why is this balance so important to you? I have always had a love for fashion, from playing in my aunt’s closet when I was young, to opening my first business, but while fashion is a love of mine, so is my family. My family has inspired everything I have done, and they continue to inspire me every day, so making time for both is crucial to me. You are renowned for your philanthropic fundraising events. Which charity is your favorite and why? I could never pick just one. At the moment, though, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation comes to mind. I recently joined their board of directors. I have always been inspired by their commitment to investing in cancer research. Do you find it ironic to be the mother of three sons and have an ultra-feminine jewelry line? I do find it ironic sometimes, but I wouldn’t trade being a mother of three boys for the world. It’s an adventure with them every day, and they keep me on my toes. What advice would you give to women wanting to start a career in jewelry design? My biggest word of advice is to find your space in the market. What unique mark can you make on the industry that just doesn’t seem to be out there? Create something that your customers can’t find anywhere else. www.kendrascott.com 20 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

KE N D R A S COT T.COM | @KE N D R A S COT T

Woman

OF THE MONTH | LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Real Estate Investor and Entrepreneur Outstanding Real Estate Solutions, Inc. and Mobile Home Millions, LLC

Chimene M. Van Gundy

himene Van Gundy is a real estate investor and entrepreneur with Outstanding Real Estate Solutions, Inc. and Mobile Home Millions, LLC, who invests in mobile homes and mobile home parks, which provide affordable housing to people across the U.S. After completing her B.A. magna cum laude in Criminal Justice from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2006, she worked multiple jobs in the corporate world and served as the lead paralegal for several different law firms. After being laid off in 2015, Chimene decided that rather than working for another corporation she would be her own boss. She read the novel “Rich Dad Poor Dad” which became a wakeup call for her and changed her life. Having spent time in and out of the foster care system, no one taught her about money, credit, or budgets. So, after hearing her husband say “I believe in you” she took some real estate education classes, found a mentor and the rest is history. 22 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

A true entrepreneur, Chimene runs and manages five different companies. She is known as the “The Mobile Home Millionaire” and “Queen of Mobile Homes” because she has fixed, flipped, and wholesaled more than 500 units to date, all in four years. She does business in 11 states and has taken her business international as well, rehabbing mobile homes in Ireland where they are called “Holiday Homes.” She is a member of W.R.E.N. Chimene serves as a featured writer for Think Realty magazine, where she educates others on the mobile home asset class. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her five children, horseback riding, dancing, musicals, ballet, theater and animals. What is the one book you recommend our community should read and why? “The ONE Thing,” which talks about how we all have our own “genius” zone and should improve and refine it. Once done, we can become wealthy using it.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What did you buy and why? I got a massage. I am all about self-care. This is vital when you are building a business or organization. What advice would you give your younger self? To not worry about what other people think. It is none of my business what others’ opinions are of me. I will continue to always pursue my dreams. How did you get started in your field or industry? I read “Rich Dad Poor Dad” which changed my perspective on money and assets. I quickly noticed the need for mobile homes and affording housing. I forged my way through this. What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in your industry? Real estate is primarily dominated by men. I am constantly educating others that manufactured housing or mobile homes are not trailer trash. What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed? Stay laser focused and communicate well. If you do this, success will follow. In this area, we beat men hands down. Form relationships because your network is your net worth. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means having the freedom to choose what you do and dictate your worth and value, instead of someone else. www.mobilehomemillions.com

Michele Briscoe Owner Briscoe Investment Enterprises

ichele Briscoe is the owner of Briscoe Investment Enterprises, a relatively new real estate investment company based in Brooklyn, New York. As the owner, Michele is responsible for investing in real estate properties. She received a B.S. in Banking and Money Management from Adelphi University in 1988. Michele has served as an MTA NYC Transit Authority station agent since 1997 and continues to do so while running her own business. Currently, she is also a distributor for VASAYO. Previously, she worked for the Realize Food Company. Michele is a member of Delta Sigma Pi. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and relaxing.

How did you get started in your field/industry? I got started in my field by watching TV and reading books about entrepreneurship. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? The biggest challenges that I faced were learning how to start a business and get mentorship from someone who knew the business. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? The biggest challenge that women face today is in believing they can accomplish what other women before them were unable to because of societal biases. What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means having the ability to help yourself and others achieve their goals. What advice would you give your younger self? I would advise my younger self to believe in yourself no matter what others may say. Have faith in God. Continue to seek wisdom and understanding. Work towards your goals until you accomplish them. Have patience and be grateful to God for all things that you perceive to be good or bad because all of your experiences will develop who you will become. What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why? The book I would recommend

Month

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD | WOMAN OF THE

would be, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Higher is Waitingâ&#x20AC;? by Tyler Perry. It gives you an example of how anyone can accomplish their destiny no matter where you started from or how lofty your dreams are. What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? One habit that makes me more productive as an entrepreneur is to schedule personal downtime daily to rest, pray, and recoup. How do you bring ideas to life? To bring ideas to life, I picture the vision, speak aloud the idea, pray about the idea and then take action on the small steps to get there. Fortuneseeker82.vasayo.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 23

Woman

OF THE MONTH

Dr. Rohini J. Joshi How did you get started in your field/industry? I was inspired at a young age by my grandfather’s passion for healing and holistic medicine. This eventually helped me connect with people as a physician, since my grandfather was never judgmental regarding his patients. My goal was to create a genuine relationship with my patients and to make positive changes in their lives and bodies. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? One of the biggest challenges I had in my career was being a woman working in a male dominated field. Another obstacle was that I started my career too young. I was the youngest graduate of my high school. I grew up very soft spoken and timid, 24 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

and had to overcome that. I am part of the minority community and was the first woman in my family to go to college. Thankfully and happily, this opened doors for many others who followed. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? I think that a huge challenge for women is finding the balance against all odds. Women wear so many hats and have so many expectations. I always say, “Health is wealth.” I also believe in Darwin’s theory of the survival of the fittest. If you educate one woman, an entire village will be educated. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means be the best version of you while enjoying life’s

r. Rohini J. Joshi is a neurologist specializing in headaches, Multiple Sclerosis, epilepsy, peripheral neuropathy, neuralgia, stroke patients, Parkinson’s disease and general neurology. She also utilizes vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), which is an alternative treatment for epilepsy when medication management is not effective in controlling seizures. With over 20 years experience, Dr. Joshi teaches doctors and residents at Adventis Health and Kaweah Delta where she practices. Over the years, Dr. Joshi has won an Outstanding Faculty Award and the Hind Rattan Award. She received her M.D. and performed her residency at the University of California, Davis School of Medicine. She had a second residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Joshi finished her Fellowship in Geriatrics at Kaiser Sunset and is affiliated with The University of California at Los Angeles. She is a member of C.N.S., A.A.N. and A.P.P.I. In her spare time, she enjoys painting, yoga and music.

Neurologist journey. Write your own story as you go along and don’t forget to smell the roses. If you are in a male dominated industry, like the field of medicine, or you have to strive to maintain your originality in your chosen area, do not lose your identity as a woman and definitely don’t pretend to be a man. God has designed each person to be unique. Be you. Be human. Women’s empowerment is the process of becoming stronger and more confident in today’s world. We know that empowering women is the key to economic growth, political stability and social transformation. Women can elaborate and recreate what they can be, do and accomplish in any and all circumstances. We have to find balance and look after our families, children and ourselves. basicholistichealing.com

Leona W. Ayers, M.D. Academy Professor of the Emeritus Academy Ohio State University, Department of Pathology

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 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Physician Scholar.â&#x20AC;? 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 1998-2000 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 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 226 abstracts/posters at national and international meetings, 110 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.

Award

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

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 professional 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

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

shley Borden is a fitness and lifestyle consultant to some of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces and world-class athletes. With over 35,000 hours of personal training experience, her unique approach to fitness can be attributed to having tackled her own personal struggles, transforming them into a positive philosophy and dynamic training program. She is one of the most sought-after experts in her field, being both ACE Certified and AED/ CPR Certified. Ashley’s ability to customize her training system suits many types of high-profile clients including Christina Aguilera, Mandy Moore, Ryan Gosling, World Series Champions’ Nick Swisher, Brian Wilson and other UFC, NFL, and MLS athletes. She also works as a master trainer with fellow trainers and coaches. Ashley’s tips and techniques have been featured in In Style, Vogue, Elle, Allure, Shape, and the Los Angeles Times. She has been recognized by such publications as Elle Japan, Harper’s Bazaar Russia, Who Australia and London’s NOW magazine internationally. The Huffington Post declared her one of the Top 20 Fitness Experts worth following on Twitter. Women’s Health named Ashley a “Top Body Transformer,” one of only six trainers in the country. Women’s Health UK selected her as “One of the World’s Top Trainers” in their “The A-List.” On TV, Ashley has been a featured expert on “The Today Show,” “The Doctors,” “Rachael Ray,” “Discovery Health,” “Hallmark’s Home & Family,” “The Tyra Banks Show,” MTV, VH1, E! and more. She was a co-host on “The Cooking Channel’s Drop 5 Lbs.” and is an advisor for Livestrong.com. Ashley is a featured trainer on E!’s “Revenge Body with Khloe Kardashian.” Now in its third season, Ashley has not only helped contestants to realize their health dreams, but has created AB Fit App programs so she can share her knowledge with anyone looking to lose weight, tone up, and integrate healthy habits into their lives. 26 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

As co-author of the book “Your Perfect Fit,” by McGraw-Hill, Ashley and denim designer Paige Adams-Geller (of Paige Denim) are the first to marry fashion, fitness and Ashley’s S.O.S food plan. It was given kudos by the Wall Street Journal. Ashley has also released two comprehensive, award winning DVD/ streaming programs internationally. “The Body Foundation” is a 21-day, no equipment, functional training program for all levels that is small space friendly with a pre-programmed calendar that offers appropriate progressions for each person’s maximum gains. Ashley also created the acclaimed 6-week fitness program, “6 Weeks To Sculpted,” voted #1 by Fitness Magazine. This program offers short, intense strength, core and cardio workouts with foam rolling and yoga for recovery. Previously, Ashley ran her own personalized, luxury retreats at the Four Seasons Punta Mita, Mexico and the 5-star Pelican Hill Resort in Newport Beach, California. Each experience included personalized training, spa treatments and customized meals by their executive chefs according to her S.O.S. Food Plan. Her retreats are now offered as private, tailored experiences for individuals or companies, and can be built around any resort property or location. Ashley is a proud ambassador for the animal rescue and welfare organization, Best Friends Animal Society. She has also worked with at-risk youth, helping children to improve their knowledge of nutrition and fitness through the Chaka Khan Foundation. An avid dancer growing up, she always felt an inherent connection to fitness, yet battled a vicious eating disorder throughout her teen years. Hitting bottom at 18, Ashley finally found a peaceful balance of exercise and nutrition through the help of Overeaters Anonymous. She states, “After having such a profound recovery experience, I felt inspired and called to share my insight on exercise and nutrition with others.” ashleyborden.com

Wear training clothing that is functional, fits correctly, and feels good. Invest in a good pair of tights and shoes first. Then build around those items. If you feel frumpy and sloppy you won’t feel motivated! Make sure you have the proper gear, including stable, protective footwear, and clothes that fit and make you feel good about yourself. I love compression tights with a high waist. The website www.gymshark.com has a great selection and excellent prices. If you are training outside dress accordingly. Try and wear light-colored clothing with wickable fabrics that breathe and keep sweat away from the skin which causes chafing. Many injuries in life and the gym result from being clumsy, absent-minded or not "set up" when completing a task. Whether it’s moving furniture, lifting heavy, awkward items, or reaching behind you to grab something, all of these tasks can be recipes for injury if you are not purposeful. Focus on the task at hand. Picture yourself completing the task before you do it. For example, if you are picking up a heavy bag, visualize the correct body position needed before you pick it up and move it. Fats are your friends. Omega 3’s and heart-healthy fats are an essential component to a lean physique and stabilizing hunger. Incorporate foods like avocado, nuts, olives, and oils such as flax, Udo’s, Oil 3,6,9 Blend, olive, and avocado oil. Strive for progress, not perfection. Small improvements each day add up to big results. This goes for show-

ing up to your workouts on time, drinking enough water, sleeping, etc. Follow a structured training plan with proper progression. You may initially have some weight loss if you are cherry picking classes, or randomly training at the gym. However, that type of working out doesn’t give you a physique change. To see the shape of your body change, you need programming with strength, accessory work, cardio and conditioning. Roll out! Make sure you are consistently foam rolling your body on a daily basis. Foam rolling helps to promote blood flow (resulting in a higher metabolic rate), aids in better overall mobility, helps to push lactic acid out of your muscles and assists in bringing out the shape of your body. Breaking up muscle adhesions means less “knots.” It’s like having a masseuse at your disposal for a fraction of the cost. Try my free, full body “Rolling Out Guide” at: ashleyborden.com/ foamrollingguide. Get off the fake food, and that includes soda and fancy coffee drinks. If it has more than five ingredients or says partially hydrogenated oil throw it away! Not sleeping enough. People think they can “catch up” on sleep. You can’t. Sleep regulates our hormones. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces the stress hormone cortisol, which increases your hunger levels. Lack of sleep also throws off your blood sugar levels which can lead to cravings for sugar. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep a night.

Follow these nutrition tips from my Dietitian, Kristen Bell R.D., who is the co-author of my S.O.S. Food Plan (ashleyborden.com/ foodplan) 1 Start your day with 20 grams of protein within 20 minutes of waking up. 2 Leave carbs out of dinner time to accelerate weight loss (except vegetables which are unlimited). 3 Eat when you are barely hungry and stop when you are barely full. 4 Be accountable to someone. Choose a friend that you can do this challenge with. 5 Focus on the quality of food and mindful eating instead of staying under a certain calorie goal. 6 Ditch the sugar - of all sorts. Consuming too many calories, even if they’re from “healthy” sugars, such as honey, agave, and fruit in excess can still lead to weight gain. Limit fruit intake to 1.5 cups a day. Cutting out any electronic devices with a screen 30 minutes before bedtime has been shown to increase the body's production of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep–wake cycles. Studies have shown that increased melatonin may help you sleep better. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 27

PHOTO: Joey Carman

ran Drescher is a diverse, accomplished career woman. She is successful in the fields of writing, producing, directing, creating, philanthropy and activism in the areas of health, arts, education, environment and civil liberties. A two-time Emmy and Golden Globe nominee for her performance of the title role in “The Nanny,” Fran also created, executive produced and directed several episodes. Her latest project is NBC’s “Indebted,” a pilot from “The Goldbergs” executive producers Dan Levy and Doug Robinson. Fran attributes her ability to have a keen eye for visual composition to her being a fine art collector. She created, wrote, produced and directed the single camera sitcom pilot “Day-Trippers” for MTV Networks. She also directed the 99th episode of the single camera medical drama series “Strong Medicine” for Lifetime Network. Other series Fran created, produced and starred in include “Living with Fran,” “The Fran Drescher “Tawk” Show,” and “Happily Divorced,” a show based on her real life relationship with her gay ex-husband Peter Marc Jacobson. Once high-school sweethearts, Fran and Peter have remained close friends and writing/producing partners to this day. Among her many films which include “Spinal Tap,” “Ragtime,” “Cadillac Man” and “Doctor Detroit,” Fran is most proud of her starring role in “The Beautician & the Beast,” a film she starred in, created and produced for Paramount Pictures. Fran won Esquire’s Five Minute Oscar for her performance in the mockumentary “This Is Spinal Tap.” Her inimitable voice can be recognized as the Bride of Frankenstein in the Sony Pictures animated feature film franchise “Hotel Transylvania.” Theatre credits include “Nora & Delia Ephron’s Love,” “Loss and What I Wore,” “LCT’s Camelot” for PBS, Neil La Bute’s “Some Girls” and “The Exonerated.” During the 2014 winter/spring season, Fran starred as

the wicked stepmother in Rogers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” on Broadway to soldout houses. Fran has authored two New York Times Best Sellers, “Enter Whining” and “Cancer Schmancer,” as well as a children’s book, “Being Wendy,” which celebrates a child’s uniqueness. She also wrote the foreword for “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Find Your Inner Strength: 101 Empowering Stories of Resilience, Positive Thinking, and Overcoming Challenges.” A 19-year cancer survivor and leading health advocate, Fran founded the Cancer Schmancer Movement whose mission is to educate, prevent and activate patients. She is a sought-after public speaker, engaging and inspiring large rooms with her both humorous and motivational lectures. As a public diplomacy envoy appointed by the US State Department, a position she’s proudly held during the last two administrations, Fran shares her personal survival story and mission statement for early detection and prevention to our allied nations and military globally. Fran was instrumental in passing the Gynecologic Cancer Education and Awareness Act of 2005 by unanimous consent, the first of its kind in U.S. history. As a multi-talented figure, Fran is committed to promoting wisdom, tolerance, joyfulness, mindfulness and living in grace as a daily practice. She lives at her homes in Malibu, California and Central Park West, New York City with her dog Samson.

Fran Drescher

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

Actor | Producer | Director

They say laughter is the best medicine. How does it make you feel knowing you make people laugh and bring so much joy to their lives? I’m a nurturer by nature and I like to help people and be a heroine. There was a time in my career when I thought people didn’t take me seriously, that I was just looked at as a sitcom star. Over the course of my career I would speak to people who have seen my body of work and who are aware of what I have been through and my challenges. I have helped them and it’s fulfilling to know that I am impacting people’s lives. I was recently doing my stand-up act at the Hollywood Improv and a man left me red roses and a card thanking me and telling me that he went through a difficult time in his life and was even considering ending it. He said my candor regarding what I have been through, how I always make lemonade out of lemons, and my humor always made him feel uplifted. It meant a lot to me. You have had so much fame and fortune, but you have also had to overcome difficulties in your life including being a rape victim and receiving a diagnosis of uterine cancer. What was your first thought when you heard the word “cancer?” Did you ever say “Why me?” I think when anybody gets a diagnosis like cancer, they’re going to kick, scream and say, “Why me,

Lord?!?” You’re going to be angry. We all make plans for what we want the future to be and then we play our plan out. Suddenly the plan you are playing no longer applies and you’re going to have to play out a new plan. No one has a crystal ball. We have to be fluid enough to shift gears. Eventually you’re going to have to accept that no one leaves this planet unscathed. Bad things happen to good people. You’re going to have to make the choice of either remaining stuck in what was supposed to be or playing the hand that’s been dealt to you courageously and as elegantly as you possibly can. You were previously misdiagnosed by eight doctors when you had uterine cancer. How does that happen? For two years and eight doctors, I slipped through the cracks. I was misdiagnosed with a premenopausal condition that I didn’t have because at the earliest and most curable stage of uterine cancer, it mimics perimenopause almost identically. Because the majority of women with uterine cancer are either obese or postmenopausal, both of which I was not, it was the doctor’s assumption I must be premenopausal. Doctor # 1 said I was too young

for an endometrial biopsy because that would have proved uterine cancer and she said I was too young and too thin to have uterine cancer. I now know that this presumption could have caused me a late stage cancer diagnosis like it does for so many Americans. Doctor #8 was convinced I was premenopausal and put me on a hormone replacement which was the worst because it had estrogen in it. When you have uterine cancer, taking estrogen is like taking poison. As a result, I began breakthrough bleeding 24/7. I called her up and said, “This cannot be right!” She eventually did an endometrial biopsy and three days later she told me I had uterine cancer. We have to be our own greatest advocates and recognize the early warning whispers of the cancers that may affect us. We need to know the tests that

QwithAFran &

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

are available because they may not even be on the menu at the doctor’s office, especially if your health insurance doesn’t typically cover it. I wrote the book “Cancer Schmancer” because I didn’t want what happened to me to happen to other people. The book morphed into The Cancer Schmancer Movement. We’re a very progressive, cutting edge nonprofit in the health arena. We partner with environmental groups and pristine food movements. We are empowering them with education, motivation and activation. You can read more about it at CancerSchmancer.org. Tell us about your annual Master Class Health Summit, which you do every fall. This year it will be held on November 2nd in Los Angeles at the beautiful Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. This is a life changing event. People go from breakfast through lunch into the afternoon hours listening to one cutting edge doctor after another telling them things about their health that you most likely don’t hear about from your regular physician. We also put it out as a live stream globally so people around the world that can’t make it to Los Angeles can still experience the full day of speakers. And of course, I’m there! You said that you finally learned to love yourself after being married twice. Why do you think it took two marriages to come to that realization? Life is a journey. The stuff that we work through is like an onion and you keep peeling off the layers. I had been working on myself towards the end of “The Nanny” when my marriage to my first husband, Peter, started to break apart. I started therapy and was making peace with every member of my family, understanding them better and understanding what pushed my buttons 30 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

and why. I underwent pretty intense psychotherapy for over a decade. By the time I was with my second husband he pushed buttons I didn’t even realize I still had. I’m actually very grateful for my relationship with him because I started speaking to a therapist and spiritual shaman. I was in a lot of pain when my second husband and I were fighting a lot. I wouldn’t hear from him for several days if not weeks at a time. I remember saying to my shaman, “I feel like somebody took a fork and scraped my guts out.” And he said, “Well, that’s because you’ve been filling your insides from the outside. You’ve got to fill yourself with you and then just find a person to love that doesn’t fill you but complements you.” Now I know that whenever I feel that horrible gut-wrenching feeling, I need to say, “I love you Fran. I know how special you are.” It’s Fran and Fran till the end of time. That alone feeling, that fearful feeling, helped me learn how to fill myself with self-love. Buddhism taught

me that while we are here, this is a great big classroom and everything that comes at you is your opportunity to grow on your journey of self-refinement. What does the word empowerment mean to you? I think empowerment is being connected to your inner voice and listening to that. It’s getting rid of external noise and quieting your mind. Listen to your inner voice and then take action. What advice would you give to women today who are juggling it all? Doing it all is a number one priority and that’s you! If you don’t make yourself number one, then you are not a well-rounded human being. This was one of the silver linings of my cancer and it is a downfall of many women who put everybody before themselves. You are useless to everyone if you are six feet under. We need to be just like the woman on the plane who must put on a breathing mask first before her child. You have to learn to breathe for yourself. Carve out time to be joyful; to be quiet. Do what brings you happiness. Whether it’s taking a walk, lying down on the bed, arranging flowers, dancing in front of the mirror to music you love, you must do that for you. The notion of having to do it all is propaganda. Nobody needs to do it all. You are going to burn your candle at both ends. Keep it simple and keep it real. Stay connected to your spiritual self. Keep your mind, body and spirit in balance. You are in charge of your daily internal thermostat. Your journey is to connect with your soul; to be loving to yourself; to be kind to yourself; to be connected to your body and to honor your body. Learn more and join Fran’s movement. Go to www.cancerschmancer.org

Maria White Reeps

or Maria White Reeps, being a woman of P.O.W.E.R. is as much about her own success as it is about empowering others. Maria has proven herself as a force in the business world as the executive vice president of sales at Intracoastal Abstract for over 27 years. During that time, Maria also served as president of Innovative Abstract from 2002 to 2018 and continues to be a partner and underwriter in several other business enterprises in the title industry today. Her many roles have encompassed management, budgeting, business planning and building strategic alliances. At the core of her success has been her ability to build and sustain long-standing, meaningful relationships and referral networks. Building relationships and making connections has enabled Maria to excel in her business, personal and philanthropic efforts. They have also allowed her the opportunity to mentor, encourage and empower others, especially women. Through her positions at Intracoastal, Innovative and other business enterprises, Maria has had the opportunity to mentor women in career paths that allow them to

Marisa Testa

arisa Testa, often referred to as a female hybrid of Dave Grohl and John Bonham, is a hard-working, dynamic drummer, percussionist, singer and multi-instrumentalist. Hailing from Long Island, New York, Marisa comes from a musical family background. She started playing music at the early age of eight years old- first singing, then picking up a guitar, then a pair of drumsticks. Marisa graduated from Farmingdale High School, and then relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a degree in the drum program at Musicians Institute. Her first summer in Los Angeles consisted of her studying, touring and interning at Warner Brothers Records simultaneously. After completing her first year of studies and playing around the Los Angeles area with numerous artists and bands, Marisa was asked to join celebrity artist Corey Feldman on three national tours. She has also

Executive Vice President of Sales Intracoastal Abstract

utilize their strengths, cultivate their careers and build their businesses. Whether it is sales development, title closing, business planning or networking skills, she is always willing to use her skills and insights to help build up other women and encourage them to achieve their goals. Beyond the scope of her professional success, Maria devotes a significant amount of time to philanthropic endeavors. Charities which focus on the health and well-being of children hold a special place in her heart. She has been a chair and committee member for the March of Dimes for over 21 years and has received multiple honors and commendations for her fundraising efforts including recognition as a “Woman of Distinction.” For the past 24 years, Maria and her husband Eric have worked as committee members for the Diabetes Research Institute and have successfully raised millions of dollars for the research essential to defeat this disease. For Maria, the greatest benefit of her own success has been the ability to balance the priorities of family, faith, career and philanthropy. Family has always been a priority. Maria believes that her greatest achievement is being mom and stepmom to three daughters who themselves have grown to be independent, accomplished young women. Maria believes that empowering others to succeed is more important than furthering one’s own success. True success comes from making a difference. www.intracoastalabstract.com

Drummer | Singer | Instrumentalist

Jesaiah, rock/funk/electronic artist Corey Feldman, Kidz Bop’s Karina Rae, saxophonist Scotty Page (Pink Floyd), guitarist Dory Lobel (The Voice), singer Debby Holiday (Rod Stewart), bassist Sean McNabb (Dokken, Quiet Riot, Great White), and many more. In Marisa’s early career in New York, she also had the pleasure of singing at Carnegie Hall under the conductor, Dr. Jeffrey Ames. Recently, Marisa has been playing with the Six Flags Full Throttle Band, Adriana & the Wildflowers, Street Drum Corps, and many other artists had the great honor to have worked and choreographers. Additionally, she under the mentorship of Rich Redhas had a signature snare drum made mond (Jason Aldean) and Kenny for her by Queen City Drums, and Aronoff (numerous bands/artists). has received a drumstick endorsement Marisa has had the privilege of with Los Cabos Drum Sticks. Marisa touring, performing and recording is ready to meet and play with new with many artists and bands including artists, bands and productions. Rudy Mancuso (YouTuber), electronic www.marisatesta.com pop band Lost in Los Angeles, alterInstagram: @marisa_testa_musician native pop American Idol contestant, P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 31

Lifetime

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

arjorie Graf has over 40 years experience in the financial field. As the vice president and chairman of the board of directors of Graf & Sons Inc., she specializes in finance and the overall operations. She also oversees the exporting side of the business, customer service and sales. Previously, she served in sales and service at Mexico Refractories and Kaiser Refractories for over 16 years. Graf & Sons Inc. is a wholesale sporting goods store based in Mexico, Missouri. They sell sporting goods, hunting products, ammunition, shooting and reloading materials on a national scale. The company was founded in 1957 by Arnold Graf, his wife Velma, their two sons Bob and Howard, and their spouses. What has become known as “The Reloading Authority” first started as a gasoline service station 32 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

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

in Mexico, Missouri that sold boats, motors, hunting and fishing merchandise. Marjorie and her husband, Bob became sole owners of the business after the passing of co-founder Arnold Graf in 1972 and the retirement of Howard Graf in 1981. In 1986, Bob and Marjorie started to advertise across the board and began to sell internationally with the help of UPS. In the beginning they shipped just 1,000-2,000 products a year but with the creation of their website, www.grafs.com, in 2001, the product lines expanded to fit the need. The company has many extremely competent employees including Marjorie’s two sons who are also involved with the business. Today, Graf & Sons stocks over 20,000 products and ships both nationally and internationally by mail order, phone sales, and internet sales. In 2013, Graf and Sons, Inc. was rec-

ognized by the Mexico Chamber of Commerce for their leadership in business. Their retail business and their philanthropy were honored at the Chamber’s 29th annual Commerce & Industry Appreciation Dinner. Obviously, Marjorie is quite proud of how far they have come. Recently, Marj Graf was the 2019 inductee “as an individual” into the Missouri Trapshooting Association Hall of Fame on May 17, 2019 at Linn Creek, Missouri. Sadly, Marjorie’s husband Bob passed away in 2018. She actively enjoys spending time with her four children, five grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. In her spare time, she also enjoys shooting, camping, hunting, fishing, cooking, and church activities. www.grafs.com

Singer

nlike many who spend years searching before finding their paths, Queens born Nikki Vianna always knew hers. She first picked up a microphone as a child and along with not taking “No” for an answer, never looked back. She recently signed a deal with Atlantic Records and was signed by Chairman and CEO Craig Kallman personally. Her newest single, “When You Leave,” is a collaboration with Matoma and marks the follow up to her debut single “Done,” which was deemed an “undeniable banger” by Billboard upon release. In August 2019, she sang the national anthem at the 44th annual Hampton Classic. Like many artists, Nikki started by entertaining relatives for hours on end at family gatherings and took lessons from some of the industry-leading vocal coaches, including Danny Madden. At the age of 12, while attending the Mark Twain Middle School for the Gifted and Talented in Brooklyn, she made headlines on American Idol Juniors. She started recording sessions alongside many legends and influential songwriters while still in school. Nikki’s voice powered the fan favorite “Show Me Love” which featured Flo Rida. In 2018, she performed with Cash Cash, recording the dance hit “Jewel” which had over seven million streams and earned a spot in the Billboard Top 40 Top Dance songs chart. She also joined an A-list guest list of collaborators such as Justin Bieber and Jennifer Lopez when Poo Bear showcased her on “From Here” which featured LAZR on his debut album, Poo Bear Presents Bearthday Music. “I’ve been through a lot on my road to get here,” explains Nikki. “I put all of that into my lyrics and words. Music helped me get past so many situations. I hope I can affect and help listeners in the same way. You can jam to what I’m putting out, but it might touch you too. I’d love to inspire. That’s what I’m here to do.” www.nikkiviannamusic.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 33

Women

OF THE MONTH Kelley Gardner

elley 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.

Dr. Janan Sayyed

ith almost 20 years experience, Dr. Janan Sayyed is the founder and director of Active Care Chiropractic & Natural Wellness Center PC, located in Manhattan, New York. Dr. Sayyed is a licensed and Board Certified holistic physician, chiropractor, and clinical nutritionist. She earned an M.S. in Clinical Nutrition in 2001, her N.D. in 2002 and was Board Certified as a Holistic Physician in Acupuncture in 2005, all from the University of Bridgeport. Dr. Sayyed earned her D.C. from the University of Bridgeport School of Chiropractic in 2006. She is a member of the A.C.A. and the I.C.A.

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

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, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being a nurse anesthetist, you have to be a strong, fearless person, as you are dealing with life and death decisions for your patients.â&#x20AC;? Kelley specializes in obstetrics, high risk obstetrical anesthesia and general anesthesia. She is a member of the National Association of Nurse Anesthetists. 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.kelleygardnercrnainc.com

Chiropractor, Founder, Director Active Care Chiropractic & Wellness Centers Dr. Sayyed is trained in holistic/preventive medicine, functional medicine, clinical nutrition, acupuncture, bloodwork, digital X-rays, sports medicine, and natural wellness. She is also trained as a naturopathic doctor and is a spinal specialist utilizing a variety of modalities and therapies. Dr. Sayyed is licensed in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. She is planning to be licensed in Dubai and Jordan. Due to her vast experience and willingness to help others internationally, Dr. Sayyed has been featured on Natural Medicine, Channel 5 Fox News and Channel 41, the Spanish Channel. She is an educator, researcher, has authored

Cheryl A. Palmieri

heryl A. Palmieri is an independent sales director with Mary Kay Inc. With almost 5 years experience in the cosmetics industry, Cheryl is responsible for overseeing a team of 64 consultants. She specializes in sales, leadership, education, training, providing in-depth skincare product information and serves as a makeup specialist. Until recently, Cheryl served as a program assistant at Montclair State University. She received an A.A. in Marketing from Southern New Hampshire University. In her spare time, Cheryl enjoys hiking and travel. She volunteers with the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. How did you get started in your field or industry? It all began at a bridal show. I was

Owner and Founder Kelley Gardner, CRNA, Inc.

one book and contributed to articles in journals, health newspapers and magazines. She volunteers her time with the King Hussain Orphanage Foundation in Jordan, City Harvest, and Save the Children in Westport, Connecticut. Dr. Sayyed is a member of the American Chiropractic Association, World Chiropractic Congress, National Acupuncture Detoxification Association, The American College for Advancement in Medicine, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, Beta Beta Beta, Phi Beta Kappa, Golden Key International Honour Society, International Chiropractors Association, International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, American Academy of Hospital Chiropractors, and the American Academy of Pain Management. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and writing. www.naturalchiropracticcare.com

Independent Sales Director | Mary Kay Inc.

newly engaged, went to browse, was asked to participate in a Mary Kay Beauty experience and agreed. I fell in love with the product, the company, their values and the women involved. I decided to try it as extra income for my wedding and it turned into my passion and career. What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in your career? The biggest obstacle was that I was very quiet and shy. I learned to value myself, not be so self-conscious and follow my passion to help all women feel beautiful and empowered, no matter what. What do you feel are some of the biggest

challenges that women face today? Some of the biggest challenges are being taken seriously in business, especially in a home-based business. It is not a fad or hobby, but a full-fledged business, especially with Mary Kay where a woman in the mid years of her life took her life savings and began a business which now spans over 40 countries. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is your own way of making yourself feel self-confident, self-reliant and to feel good about what you are doing, while helping other women do the same by building them up and building their self-confidence. www.marykay.com

Leslie S. Taylor

eslie S. Taylor is a referral partner with Send Out Cards, which is a tool to show customers appreciation and to make connections through personalized messages via the means of regular “snail mail.” It enables clients to send a card from their computer or cell phone within minutes. The service can be used to assist with fundraisers, club activities, business notifications, personal thank you cards, birthday and condolence cards and everyday holidays. Leslie provides an easy way for customers to stay in touch with business clients, family and friends. Leslie and her husband have been in

Referral Partner | Send Out Cards the industry for the past two years. She is responsible for educating individuals and companies on the benefits of relationship marketing using cards. She earned a B.A. in Dance, Secondary Education and English from the University of North Texas in 1998. Previously, Leslie served in a variety of industries including retail, restaurant, banking, and clerking. She has a background in English composition and dance. Leslie belongs to the Lions Club and is dedicated to animal rescue. She enjoys travel, photography, festivals, shows, dancing and dining out. How did you get started in your field or industry? I was already in direct sales when I

was introduced to Send Out Cards. It complements existing businesses to keep customers, clients, friends and family top of mind. It was a good fit and gives that personal touch in your mailbox. What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in your career? Breaking out of my comfort zone. You have to get past that and open yourself up to different experiences to help you grow as an individual and in your business. Reading is important; there is a lot of material. It’s about finding what is relevant to you. What does the word empowerment mean to you? It means being well grounded, having confidence, a sense of self with a strong foundation and knowing your strengths. www.alignable.com/spring-tx/send-out-cards

Anna Marie Szalan

Owner and Principal | Edco Industries

Melvina J. Newman

Property Manager

s the matriarch, Owner and Principal of the family run business, Anna Marie Szalan has been with Edco Industries for 41 years. The company has been designing, manufacturing, assembling and packaging quality injection molded products and structural foam products since 1978. It was established and founded by Anna Marie’s husband, Edward Szalan and his father John Szalan, who started an injection molding company in the late 1970’s. Edward purchased a small building and one injection-molding machine in a semi-industrial area of Bridgeport, Connecticut, which quickly grew and expanded to include roles for his entire family.

elvina J. Newman is in the real estate industry serving as a property manager in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In this position, she oversees the management of a home owner’s association. She is responsible for bookkeeping, oversees daily operations and ensures that all restrictions are adhered to by members. Melvina previously served in the legal and retail fields and has an A.A. in Business. She is a member of the Cosmopolitan International Diabetes Association, currently serving as a Cosmopolitan North Central Federation officer and Cosmopolitan Fund for Children Foundation Board member. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

Today, the business is operated by Anna Marie and her son John, who worked in the factory as a teenager and later became a plastics engineer. Anna Marie’s first position with the company was in accounting. She trained under a CPA for four years and took some college courses. Her responsibilities grew with the company and she began purchasing raw materials and had a role in sales as they grew. Currently, she oversees the company’s manufacturing and business operations, purchasing, accounting, giving job quotes and estimates. Over the years she had to learn many jobs within the industry that were viewed as “men’s” jobs but is the first to happily admit that she

After starting my career in the legal field and then owning my own retail business, I knew it was time for a change. A customer suggested I look into management of a homeowners association. He felt my background would be a benefit. What were some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? People were the biggest challenge in my retail career. We had to market ourselves to our customers. This is still true in the homeowners group as there are many different opinions and marketing is still key.

was readily accepted. Anna Marie enjoys her current role and hopes to continue growing the company. Anna Marie is a member of the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening and travel. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? The biggest challenge I had to face was establishing myself as a serious businesswoman in a male-dominated industry. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment to me means women helping women, especially in male-dominated industries. Plastics is one of those industries, and being able to empower, encourage, and help women excel in this field is important to me. www.edcoindustries.com

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Women today still face the same challenges with discrimination and equality in the work force. We are still paid less for the same work, have limited opportunities for advancement, and are still facing sexual harassment in the work force. What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry? Believe in yourself. If you do that you will succeed. You must network with people, become involved in the community, be courageous, always do your very best and reach for the top.

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

| Lori J. Sawatzke

ith almost 20 years of experience, Lori J. Sawatzke has been a strategic account manager with BWise, a NASDAQ company since 2014. She is experienced in client management, program management and project management in a variety of business segments. Lori combines strong customer service skills with the knowledge and expertise about the business to be a creative problem-solver

Irene Johnson

rene Johnson is the owner of Family Enterprises, which consists of five residential homes for adults and elderly residents. Irene is responsible for overall operations, training her staff, hiring, marketing, compliance and ensuring residents receive proper care. She is a mental healthcare provider and provides general care to the residents as well. Irene received her C.N.A., took numerous classes at Husson College, and earned an A.S. in Healthcare Administration and Medical Records from the University of Phoenix. She previously served as a C.N.A. for another agency, performing general nursing duties and caring for patients in a variety of medical fields. In her spare time she enjoys traveling. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

Strategic Account Manager | BWise – a NASDAQ company for her customers. She is known within her field for her excellent scope of work preparation, follow-through, attention to detail, organization and relationship building. Currently, Lori provides relationship management, ongoing customer management and post-sales management. She specializes in customer retention sales and consulting services,

customer-centric care and product support, internal and external strategic and global account relationships, creative problem solving and strategic planning, critical thinking, multitasking, process development/implementation, program and project management, project planning/scope development, remote and local project teams. Previously, she served as a project manager with Landis+Gyr of Minnesota from 2013 until 2014. Lori is a member of Team Women. In her spare time, she enjoys sports and reading. www.bwise.com

Owner | Family Enterprises I started my medical career as a C.N.A. I then enrolled in Husson College and took many medical classes. I also took mental health classes at a local mental health hospital. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? As a C.N.A., I did agency work where I traveled to hospitals and nursing homes. This gave me a lot of experience in many different medical fields. The biggest challenges I endured were shortages of help and patients not getting the care they needed or deserved. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Competition with other women.

Women are still afraid to travel alone in most cases. Women suffer in the retail world with costly products compared to men’s products. Women also have monthly problems, and are expected to carry out their work as if nothing is wrong with them. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means the ability for me to become more knowledgeable about my work, to be able to train, and have the best control over my business. I enjoy overseeing the work of my staff and training them to give the best compassionate care to my residents.

Human Resources Specialist | DC Government

rica Patrice Gross is a human resource specialist with DC Government. Her responsibilities include assisting in carrying out HRD programs through a broad range of assignments involving the design and delivery of training and organizational development interventions, with a particular emphasis on employee development and change management. Erica has an extensive background in HR generalist affairs. She specializes in HR department startup, employment law, FMLA/ADA/EEO/WC, mediation and advocacy, policies and procedures, staff recruitment and retention, employee

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relations, alternative dispute resolution, benefits administration, program/ project management, orientation and on-boarding, training and development, performance management and organizational development. She has developed teambuilding programs and written personnel manuals, corporate policies, job descriptions and management reports. Erica earned a B.S. in Business Management from Ashworth University, a B.S. in Human Resource Management from Madison University, and is currently working on her M.B.A. in Human Resource Management at Ashworth College. She is a member of S.H.R.M. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, dancing, travel, family activities, and participating in breast cancer walks. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I began my career in my early 20’s as a human resource assistant. I enjoy the level of problem solving, educating others and ensuring employees’ overall satisfaction with their jobs. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? The biggest challenge I faced was that I had to go above and beyond to gain respect as a woman in the HR profession. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? I believe most women face the challenges of having to wear multiple hats and trying to balance them all. What does the word empowerment mean to you? It is the process of becoming strong and confident and doing something positive to help others achieve the same confidence in themselves. dc.gov

Theresa L. Moroso

ith almost 30 years experience, Theresa L. Moroso is the owner of EaglePoint Builders, Inc. which is a certified woman-owned construction company. Theresa is responsible for the daily operations of the company, bidding on projects, ordering materials, marketing, new

Dr. Karen Wolstein

r. Karen Wolstein is the clinic director, chiropractor and owner of Wolstein Chiropractic and Sports Injury Center. She specializes in sports injuries, manipulation under anesthesia, and is an independent medical examiner. She has experience and an extensive knowledge of exercise and fitness. Dr. Wolstein started her career in 1993 at Suncoast Spinal Centers with her brother. She was the owner of multiple chiropractic and medical clinics known as Suncoast Total Health Care, implementing rehabilitation, physical therapy and overall wellness treatment programs for all ages.

client acquisition and ensuring client satisfaction. The company is bonded and DCAM certified. They have won numerous safety awards throughout the years. Theresa is a member of the A.G.C. In her spare time, she enjoys fishing and ice hockey.

Owner and Chiropractor Wolstein Chiropractic and Sports Injury Center

Licensed in the state of Florida, Dr. Wolstein is a diplomate of the Board of Sunstate Massage Academy. She is a member of the Florida Chiropractic Association, Florida Chiropractic Society, the American Chiropractic Association and the P.C.C.A. She attends annual conventions and educational seminars to keep current on advancements in the field. Dr. Wolstein earned her B.S. in Marketing from Florida State University in 1986, a M.S. in Sports Health from Life University in 1993, a D.C. from

L. Renee Williams

Renee Williams has over 25 years experience in all phases and aspects of clinical research operations and is an expert in oncology. She has developed a new suppository product that can help women achieve a healthy sensual balance using centuries old Chinese herbs and flowers. She is responsible for the overall operations of the company and clinical research. L. Renee earned a M.A. in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix in 2001. She received a Certification in Clinical Research from A.C.R.P. in 2008, a Harvard Executive Business Certification in 2015, an Entrepreneurial Business Certificate in 2016, both from Harvard University, and a Clinical Project Management Certification from Barnett International in 2016. L. Renee has authored more than 15 publications from Indiana University

Owner and Contractor EaglePoint Builders, Inc.

Purdue. She is a member of the Drug Information Association, the Association of Clinical Research Professionals and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. In her spare time, L. Renee enjoys family activities, travel and tennis. How did you get started in your field/ industry? When I was deciding what I wanted to do in life I originally wanted to be a pediatrician, but then I was introduced to clinical research, which was a better fit. As a clinical research associate, I monitor and manage clinical drug trials.

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WOMEN OF THE

the Life University School of Chiropractic in 1993 and has a Certification in Manipulation Under Anesthesia. She has completed post-graduate certifications in accident injury management and dynamic motion X-ray. Dr. Wolstein has written numerous articles. As a fully qualified healthcare professional, Dr. Wolstein genuinely cares about her patients and has helped hundreds of patients throughout the years. She receives constant referrals from her patients, local attorneys, businesses and other healthcare providers. In her spare time, she enjoys fitness, skin care products and running her own business, Crystal Time. www.wolsteinchiropractic.com

Clinical Research Associate Triple Apex What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Clinical research was not really developed at the time, so there were not many African Americans representing the industry. Today, there is still a very low percentage of representation, which means there is not very much diversity and mentorship in the industry. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means fully embracing your authentic self no matter what others may think or say. It’s having the confidence to say “No” when you know something is not a right opportunity and to say “Yes” when positive and loving intentions are in alignment with others who embrace the same understanding. www.tripleapexforwomen.com

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Women

OF THE MONTH Alicia A. Zefta

n established leader in the industry, Alicia A. Zefta is the owner of Alicia Makeup Academy LLC, where she has served as an instructor and makeup artist for over a decade. With almost 35 years of both national and international experience in the beauty industry, Alicia has worked with numerous major makeup and skincare companies. She has extensive product knowledge and serves as a product consultant and developer for several brands. Her exceptional ability in makeup media (editorial, photo, stage and bridal) has enabled her to become one of the most sought-after artists and educators in the industry as well as an inspirational voice. Alicia earned her A.A. and is a Licensed Esthetician from Lebanon. She is a Licensed Makeup Artist in

Brynda E. Lattimore

rynda E. Lattimore is the owner of Shop Smart, Think Smart, which is a national e-commerce business that features kitchen products and Fone+Me, which features mobile phones and mobile phone accessories. She oversees the daily operations, marketing, sales and lead generation, shipping of kitchen products and follows through with orders and customer service. Brynda earned her A.A. in Business from American Intercontinental University in 2013. She is a mother, foster mother and grandmother who has fostered 15 children over the years. Her favorite hobby is writing children’s books. To date, she has published “The Last Fedora” and has recently published a second entitled “Mervin, The Church Mouse.” In her spare time, Bryn-

errion D. Roberts is the owner of Perri Auto Sales, LLC an Independent Automobile Dealership based in Huntsville, Alabama. With over 15 years experience, Perrion is responsible for the overall operations, management, sales, marketing, promotions and staff oversight. She earned a B.S. in Legal Studies from South University in 2015. She is a mentor to young girls who are in trouble for the first time and is starting a scholarship for a young girl who changed her life and wants to attend college. She is a volunteer for the United Way. In her spare time she enjoys traveling, shopping and cooking.

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Paris, a Licensed Special Effects Makeup Artist and Body Painter, a Certified Lash Extension Artist and a Certified Microblading Artist. At the academy, Alicia teaches students new makeup techniques and guides them towards employment. She is a member of the International Union of Makeup Artists and was voted one of the Top 100 Makeup Artists in the United States by Elle Magazine in 2012. In her spare time, Alicia enjoys drawing, travel, cooking and reading. She empowers her students to stand out in the field. How did you get started in your field/industry? At 16 I took my first esthetic class in Lebanon and was the top of my graduating class. As a gift, the school awarded me an airline ticket to Paris, where I decided to take more classes. My first job was as an in-house makeup artist for Yves St. Laurent and teacher at my alma mater. www.aliciasacademy.com

da enjoys spending time with her family and writing children’s books. How did you get started in your field/industry? Reading was a hobby when I was young. I enjoyed all types of books, which later led me to try writing on my own. After researching different authors I wrote my first children’s book, “The Lost Fedora” in 2012. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? My biggest challenge is having my

Perrion D. Roberts

Owner, Instructor & Makeup Artist Alicia Makeup Academy LLC

peers take my writing seriously, the support of my family and truly believing in my new-found accomplishments. Approval is something that we all need, but it should come from within ourselves. It is a challenge to stay focused. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Our biggest challenges as women are sticking to the grind, keeping those accomplishments coming and being proud of ourselves for our achievements. Never let the downfalls keep you down. Giving up is not an option. Remain focused and keep the faith. shopsmartthinksmart.com

President/CEO | Perri Auto Sales, LLC

How did you get started in your field or industry? My automotive career started when I was hired by Bill Heard Chevrolet of Huntsville, Alabama. I was promoted to new car sales manager and later to finance manager. My foundation for success was provided by Ms. Ellenae Fairhurst, the first ethnic and female Lexus dealer in the U.S., who sent me to a training class to receive my Infinity new car sales certification. This inspired me to one day own an automotive dealership and for that I will be forever grateful.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? When starting my dealership, it was difficult to secure enough capital to operate my business. I have faced double bias due to both my race and gender. I have had total lack of representation and had to strive alone in this industry and business that is dominated by men. My biggest challenge was having difficulty in gaining information and being considered for participation in retail dealership training programs. What does the word empowerment mean to you? It is the process of becoming a strong woman and having more confidence, especially in controlling my life and claiming my rights by gaining mastery over my life. www.huntsvillecardealer.com

Renae C. Renhcel

r. Renae C. Renhcel is a writer with R & R Productions. With over 40 years experience, she has written three books. Dr. Renhcel earned her Ph.D. from the National Christian Counseling Association in 1990. She attended L.A.E.L University, the Carolina University of Theology, the Evangelical Theological Seminary and Pittsburgh State University. A retired counselor, she currently writes books, screenplays, and skits. Dr. Renhcel also provides graphic design and enjoys organizing events. In her spare time, she enjoys puppetry, coaching youth sports, crafting, painting, quilting, reading and traveling in her RV. How did you get started in your field/ industry? Taking an art class in high school inspired my desire to screen print. Attending counseling for depression inspired

Writer | R & R Productions

me to pursue a counseling career. I wanted to become a counselor like I wished I had. My failures in life inspired me to be a better person. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? It is a struggle to get equal acceptance and the same pay as men. I had a disastrous divorce. I constantly tried to balance raising three kids, coaching their sports and carrying 15-20 hours a semester for a teaching degree. I suffered a total physical, spiritual and mental meltdown. I lost my self-identity while trying to be all things to all causes. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Finding the balance between work and family, without losing who you are as an individual. Being seriously heard as an intelligent co-worker, wife and

Amanda J. Salas-Dickey

manda J. Salas-Dickey is the owner of Biga Restaurant, located in the famous Gaslamp district of San Diego, California. Biga is a full-service Italian restaurant which offers handcrafted Italian cuisine, and old world pizza served from 850 degree wood-fired ovens. Their menu is created by using seasonal, local ingredients. It varies based upon what is available at the local farms,

Anita Latin

ith 12 years experience, Anita Latin serves as the visionary of Abounding Love Bible Ministry. Anita hosts a weekly prayer cluster joined by men and women in the San Francisco Bay Area and across the United States. She is responsible for in-home bible study, leading weekly prayer meetings, and working with women in transition. In August 2014, Anita hosted her first annual women’s conference entitled, “Take Me to the King!” This conference has become an annual spiritual renewal for women of all walks of life. After being inspired by the movie “War Room,” she began a monthly bible study for women in her home.

mother. Finding time to recoup and recharge. More girl time with friends. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means: leadership, authority, and having a get’er done mentality; obtaining the skillset to accomplish tasks to include others without demeaning them; leading by example; encouraging others working under you with positive correction when needed; a position of responsibility, not lordship.

Owner | Biga Restaurant

fishmongers and meat purveyors. Any items they cannot purchase locally are imported from Italy. Amanda and her husband educate locals about the importance of sustainable restaurant practices and how important farm-to-table food choices are to communities. They offer gluten free and vegan friendly options. With almost five years experience, Amanda

is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the restaurant including front of the house staff, customer service and marketing. She is also a motivational speaker. Amanda received her B.A. from Stanford University in 1998. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and dining out. www.bigasandiego.com

Executive Pastor | Abounding Love Bible Ministry Anita received an A.S. in Secretarial Training from San Francisco City College, a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, a M.Th. from Fuller Theological Seminary and is a Candidate for her D.Min. from the American Baptist Seminary of the West, which she expects to receive in 2020. She is the past musician and chaplain of the California State Baptist Convention Women’s Department. She presently serves as Executive Pastor of The House of Prayer Everywhere in Oakland, California. In her spare time, Anita enjoys reading, creative writing, dining out, family activities, interior design, graphic design, and serving as a Traci Lynn Fashion jewelry consultant. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Being a woman! Although I worked closely in ministry with my father, he would not publicly acknowledge my call to preach in my life. However, some of his colleagues told me when I was a teenager that if I were a boy, they knew I would be a preacher. Women on the pulpit were simply not accepted in the Baptist church during that era. Sadly, even today there are still pastors in the community where I live who will not accept women in ministry. albministry.org

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Belle Ross

elle Ross is the director of the ABC Learning Center which is an early childcare center. With almost 25 years experience in the educational arena, Belle is responsible for the daily operations of the childcare center. Known as “Auntie Belle,” she ensures each child receives individual attention and gets the best childcare available. A former Montessori teacher, her program combines learning with fun activities. These include music, artwork, languages, celebrating holidays and special events. Belle offers homemade food and healthy snacks, provides potty training and is involved with the children’s parents. She hosts gatherings

Director | ABC Learning Center throughout the year to encourage bonding for working parents so they can share in their children’s education and growth. She also invites parents to attend conferences to discuss their child’s development. Belle is available to answer parent’s questions and ensures they can reach her by phone, email and text. She created the curriculum and offers weekend and evening care as needed. She is experienced with special needs children as well. Belle earned her B.A. in Mass Communications from St. Paul’s College of the Philippines in 1986 and received a degree in Early Childhood from Diablo Valley College in 1999.

Patricia A. Clarke

atricia A. Clarke is a retired speech-language pathologist from the Palmdale School District. With 45 years experience, she was responsible for providing speech therapy to students in grades K-6. Patricia specializes in assisting students with articulation and language, fluency and voice. She received her M.A. in Speech Pathology from the University of Kansas in 1986. She is a member of the American Speech Hearing Association, the National Black Association of Speech Language and Hearing, and the California Speech and Hearing Association. Patricia is continuing her private therapy practice. She also teaches Sunday school and enjoys performing with her praise dance group at local fundraisers.

How did you get started in your field/industry? I spied a poster about speech pathology outside of the French lab, so I enrolled in the introductory course to satisfy my curiosity. I was hooked when I learned of the various career options a speech pathologist could have working in schools, hospitals, health clinics, government and post-secondary settings. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? I often had to explain my career choice

Birgit R. Barron

pon retiring from the U.S. Army as a Sgt. Major, Birgit R. Barron was unsure of what to do with the next chapter of her life. After spending some time with her mother, who enjoys sewing and fiber art, Birgit decided to open her own embroidery business. Five successful years later, Barrons Embroidery, LLC is an online store which provides embroidery design, sewing services, T-shirt design, sales of princess dress and shoes, sports attire, custom designs, logos and alterations. As

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She is a member of U.D.W. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, baking and writing books. How did you get started in your field industry? When my first son was four years-old, he convinced me to teach at the Montessori school where he was enrolled. I taught there for three years and decided to set up my own ABC Learning Center. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Some of the general factors that affect the business are a lack of budget from subsidized sectors to help low income families to access quality day care. Another is being able to maintain and promote a higher standard of quality care and service due to limited resources.

Speech-Language Pathologist Palmdale School District to classroom teachers and even administrators who failed to see the impact of communication skills on academic success. My first job interview was with a superintendent who asserted that Black therapists were ineffective models for standard English speakers (i.e.: Caucasian students). What does the word empowerment mean to you? I believe you are empowered when you understand and celebrate you... who you are. When you can move beyond your past, dare to dream beyond the present, and through faith and perseverance, actively pursue your destiny. www.palmdalesd.org

Owner | Barrons Embroidery, LLC the owner, Birgit is responsible for the operations of the business, marketing, designing and embroidering T-shirts, hats, jackets and other apparel. She also creates memorial pillows for veterans. Birgit serves as the manager of a local emergency shelter. She is currently a candidate for her D.E.M. at Cappella University which is expected in 2021. In her spare time, Birgit enjoys spending time with her family, riding her Honda chopper, gardening, crafting, helping children of war and furthering her education. How did you get started in your field/ industry? I started out crafting and sewing many years ago. I bought an embroidery machine after a conversation with my mother in Germany convinced me to get

one. I quickly learned how to operate it, load patterns, get new ones and with the advanced software, I was able to design and digitize those patterns into stitching patterns. Today you will find me on Etsy and on my website. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? If I had to sum it all up, the biggest obstacle I had to overcome to fulfill my dream was being female. Whether in law enforcement or the military, there were always aspects women could not participate in. Often it was just a gender issue, not because women could not handle it, but because either the system or attitude of teammates would not allow it. Law enforcement was by far the worst. www.barronsembroidery.online

Manager/Leader Tupperware/Avon

rs. Phyllis E. Groth has been a team leader with Avon for almost a decade and has been a manager with Tupperware for almost 25 years. In this dual role, she is responsible for signing on new Avon representatives to sell the products and educate clients. Phyllis trains, leads and motivates her teams. She consults with Avon clients about beauty and skincare products. She sells Tupperware products in a variety of venues. She also recruits new team members and encourages and assists them in further recruitment. Phyllis enjoys the relationships she builds with re-

Denisha S. Marino

enisha S. Marino is the owner of Golden Bookkeeping Services. With over 36 years experience in banking and accounting, she works with business owners to gain a better grasp of where their companies stand financially. She provides business advisory services, bookkeeping solutions, support, training, and accounting oversight to small and mid-sized companies in the fields of real estate investing, oil and gas, financial services, property management, insurance services, consulting, engineering, and medical/health services. Utilizing her QuickBooks bookkeeping, consulting, and training skills, Denisha helps both local and remote businesses update or correct their books. She helps her clients become more pro-

WOMEN OF THE

turn clients. She also enjoys being a team leader and ensures her team is knowledgeable about the products they are selling. Phyllis makes it a point to educate and help her managers. Phyllis is a member of the I.S.I. Auxiliary and is the president of the Battle Creek Lutheran Church Ladies Aid and Mary Circle. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening and cooking.

Accountant and Owner | Golden Bookkeeping Services LLC

active about using their financial information. She is certified as a QuickBooks Enterprise Solutions ProAdvisor, QuickBooks Desktop, and as a QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor. Denisha completed continuing education tax courses and has completed accounting courses at the University of Colorado at Denver, Metro State College, and Front Range Community College. She is a member of the National Association of Tax Professionals, the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers, Accountex, and QBExpress. Prior to starting her business in 2005, Denisha raised her family. She has experience in the banking, oil and gas, and

Angela Jones

ngela Jones is a supervisor with the United States Postal Service. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing the daily responsibilities of the branch, scheduling, monitoring the staff and managing the building on weekends. She directs multiple mail processing operations and ensures safety compliance throughout the facility. Angela also serves as a tax and business consultant. Currently, Angela is a candidate for her B.S. in Technical Management with a concentration in Accounting from DeVry University, to be completed in December of 2019. She earned an A.S. in Executive Accounting from Northwestern College, holds a certification in Accounts Payable Management, a certification as an Accounts Payable Specialist, is a certified Notary Signing Agent and a certified Illinois Notary Public. She is a member of the National Association of

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Phyllis E. Groth

financial industries. In her spare time she enjoys the outdoors, reading, gardening, and spending time with friends and family. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? I have a tendency to push myself too hard and work too many hours. Eventually, I was working over 90 hours a week. My husband and family helped me through this and convinced me to slow down. How did you get started in your field/ industry? My professional career began in banking, but I quickly learned that what I truly enjoyed was working with numbers. After achieving the position of teller supervisor, I began taking accounting courses through community college. Soon after I was able to acquire my first accounting position and ultimately open my own firm. www.goldenbookkeeping.com

Supervisor United States Postal Service Black Accountants, Sigma Alpha Pi, The National Society of Leadership and Success, the W.Y.C.A., and the N.A.A.C.P. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and fitness. How did you get started in your field/ industry? From my earliest positions as a bank teller, I knew I eventually wanted to acquire a senior-level position in accounting and finance management in the private or federal sector. Due to recent promotional opportunities, I have reached that goal. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? My biggest challenges have been the full acceptance of ideas for implementation from male counterparts at work. It has

been an obstacle to not have a series of mentors who could provide consultation and career awareness advice. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Women do not have equal pay for performing the same duties as their male counterparts, especially at the senior and executive levels. We are also typically omitted from decision-making positions. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means being able to create, develop, and influence innovative ideas and formulate positive results without restrictions from established regulations and policies. This mission encourages a high energy level, interpersonal communication skills, and resourcefulness.

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Women

OF THE MONTH

Harper Greenberg Munro

arper Greenberg Munro was inspired to start her own business while raising her two sons. She wanted to show her children that a woman has as much drive, determination and power over their destiny as anyone. Harper is the successful owner of M. Holden Supply LLC, a certified Women’s Business Enterprise construction supply company. Located on the South Shore of Long Island, they serve a loyal and growing customer base in New York and its surrounding areas. The company supports its customers’ projects by supplying exclusively for a wide range of manufacturers. Their goal is to help fill a contractual minority quota while keeping the pricing as competitive as possible. Harper earned a B.A. in Business from the Fashion Institute of Technology in 2000. Her responsibilities include overseeing the daily operations of the company, overseeing commercial construction projects, and overseeing contracted jobs throughout New York. Harper is a Certified WBE in New York City and New York State.

Jennifer Rose Pagano

true Renaissance woman, Jennifer Rose Pagano, owner and operator of the Periwinkle Inn in Cape May, New Jersey, is a singer, songwriter, voice-over artist, photographer and a jewelry designer with Jersey Jewelry and More. For the last five years, Jennifer has designed custom, unique jewelry, including bracelets, necklaces, rings and other pieces- all made by hand. She sells the pieces on the website, which she oversees. Jennifer creates and distributes the products and follows up with customers whenever necessary. Jennifer is experienced at radio hosting, emceeing events, vocal coaching and has also acted in theatre productions. She is

She is also a Certified WBE with the Port Authorities of New Jersey and New York. She is a member of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and physical activities with her two children including golf, tennis, and swimming. How did you get started in your field/industry? I was lucky enough to be introduced to a large general contractor over 10 years ago. I started as the owner’s assistant, which exposed me to many aspects of the construction industry. He then asked me to pull permits, head sales and run the social network for a new asphalt plant. This gave me a chance to create and maintain a large client base in the New York area. Making the decision to leave after many years my boss said to me “If you are going to leave, you should look into becoming a WBE.” I followed his advice. www.mholdensupply.com

Jewelry Designer | Jersey Jewelry and More Manager | Periwinkle Inn

the owner and manager of the family run Periwinkle Inn and oversees the operations. Additionally, she runs events, weddings, conferences and ensures everything runs as smooth as possible. Jennifer is a member of the Cape May Chamber of Commerce. A seasoned photographer, she is also a certified Google street view 360 photographer. Jennifer attended the Connecticut School of Broadcasting where she became licensed and certified as a radio and television broadcasting technician. She also attended Weist Barron Acting School and Such A Voice where she studied voice over artistry. Among numerous honors, Jennifer re-

Noelle M. Natoli

oelle M. Natoli is a member of Clark Hill, a multidisciplinary, international law firm. Noelle earned her B.A. from Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park, California and her J.D., from Southwestern University School of Law in Los Angeles, California in 1999. With 20 years experience, her practice centers upon healthcare law, medical malpractice, transportation law and elder abuse. She has extensive experience from pre-litigation investigation and emergency response to post-trial law in all areas. Noelle has tried several cases and mediated more than 200 cases. A seasoned litigator, Noelle’s elder abuse

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ceived an Honorable Mention at the UK Festival4Stars Songwriting Competition in 2011. Her song “Harm” has won four awards worldwide. She was a Nashville Song Service Lyrics Only winner in the Pop Category for her song “H20.” Jennifer was the Unisong 2004 International Songwriting Competition Finalist for her song “Dress Rehearsal.” In her spare time she enjoys singing and performing voice over work. How did you get started in your field or industry? My family acquired the Periwinkle Inn when I was young. Being surrounded by it made it second nature and a passion of mine to run the hotel. Jewelry design just came naturally. www.jewelry.io • periwinkleinn.com

Member and Lawyer Clark Hill clients engage her services from long term care facilities, nursing homes, adult family homes, residential care facilities, hospitals, doctors, nurses, and employees of nursing facilities. Transportation clients include owner-operators, independent contractors, large and small trucking companies. Noelle provides consulting services for a national long term care risk retention group. She has also served as national counsel for a transportation insurance company. Noelle belongs to the State Bar of California and is admitted to the

U.S. District Court, C.D. of California. She serves on the steering committee of the Defense Research Institute’s Trucking Law Committee and on the board of the Women Lawyer’s Association of Los Angeles. She is a member of the Trucking Industry Defense Association, Transportation Lawyers’ Association, Defense Research Institute, International Association of Defense Counsel, and Association of Southern California Defense Counsel. In her spare time, she enjoys travel and spending time with her family. www.clarkhill.com/people/noelle-m-natoli

Dr. Jason B. Diamond

The Man Behind The Face

orn and raised in New Jersey, Dr. Jason B. Diamond received his B.S. at the University of Rochester where he excelled as one of the top premedical students and played baseball on the varsity team. These successes lead to early acceptance to the University of Rochester School of Medicine. In medical school, Dr. Diamond had a clear talent for using his hands. As a result, he secured a five-year residency specializing in facial surgery, where he gained extensive expertise in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery as well as general cosmetic techniques. Dr. Diamond was awarded the position of chief resident. His talent and passion for cosmetic surgery led him to Beverly Hills, where he received specialized training by the masters of the field. This is an experience that most plastic surgeons dream of but never achieve. Dr. Diamond spent an additional two years studying under and operating with more than 50 of the top plastic, facial plastic surgeons and dermatologists in the world. He quickly realized that each field had different areas of expertise, so he focused on mastering the details and specifics of all, which has coalesced into a practice that takes a cohesive approach to facial aesthetic beauty. Dr. Diamond was able to incorporate this knowledge into his practice. As a result, he has developed a state-of-the-art practice in facial plastic surgery that combines techniques and philosophies of the aesthetics industry at a global scale. He performs not only the most advanced facial procedures, but he is also widely known for his innovative non-surgical techniques and skin rejuvenating treatments, including Diamond Facial Sculpting™, The Diamond Tripartite™, and The Diamond InstaFacial™. Dr. Diamond’s talent, passion, and experience are obvious and show in his work every day. Dr. Diamond is dual Board Certified by the Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. He is licensed in California and New York, and internationally in Dubai and Moscow, where he maintains practices. He has been recognized as a “Top Physician” in the Guide to America’s Top Physicians for the past ten consecutive years. Dr. Diamond was recognized at the 2008 Aesthetics Show as “Best Facial Plastic Surgeon” and honored with “The Best Facial Plastic Surgeon Award” by his peers and colleagues. In 2016, he was given the inaugural Hollywood Beauty Award for Outstanding Achievement in Cosmetic Enhancement, an honor voted for by his peers. He is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. As a celebrity-endorsed plastic surgeon, Dr. Diamond was the facial plastic specialist on E! Entertainment’s “Dr. 90210” for seven consecutive years, the featured facial plastic surgeon on Netflix’ “Celebrity Plastic Surgeons of Beverly Hills,” and he is a plastic surgery resource for such media as the Discovery Health Channel, “Entertainment Tonight,” “E! News,” “The Today Show,” “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” “Vanderpump Rules,” and publications such as Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, and Harper’s Bazaar Magazine.

What facial surgical procedure do you perform the most in the U.S.? My Diamond Facial Rejuvenations are my signature surgical procedures because they address each feature of the face with a unique technique. I take a cohesive approach from the top of the head to the chest to ensure an overall, refreshed, and youthful appearance is always the result. What do you feel is your most popular non-surgical procedure, and why? It is a close race between Diamond Facial Sculpting, my Diamond InstaFacial, and Diamond Non-Surgical Facelifts. All are called upon for different reasons, but the facial structure and the integrity of the skin work hand in hand, so I always focus on both. What procedure produces the most natural look? All of my procedures. Regardless of how conservative or aggressive I am in treatment; it should appear natural such that it could be said the patient was ‘born with it’. For those women who are not able to afford procedures, what products do you recommend to them to achieve youthful results? Drink water. Stay out of the sun. Use sunscreen. Sleep on our silk pillowcases. Invest in a skincare regimen. But, try to budget an annual self-care treatment, the Diamond InstaFacial being my favorite, to stimulate collagen production. When you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good, you do good. That’s my philosophy. Is there such a thing as a “perfect face?” Let’s put it this way – even the most beautiful faces have slight asymmetries from side to side. The more perfect the face, the more balanced and symmetric it is, which is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. www.jasonbdiamond.com Instagram: @drjasondiamond

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Jaclyn Smith

aclyn Smith is an award-winning actress, designer, businesswoman and role model who has held the public interest for more than four decades. Born in Houston, Texas, she started dancing at the age of three and studied drama at Trinity University. She left for New York to pursue a career in dance, where she was discovered by an agent for her natural beauty and became the Breck Girl. Through that experience, she developed a relationship with Max Factor who developed a new scent, Jaclyn Smith’s California, which won best mass-produced fragrance in 1989, the year it was launched. Hollywood beckoned, and before long Jaclyn was appearing in popular series such as “McCloud,” “The Rookies” and “Switch.” In 1976 she starred as Kelly Garrett on “Charlie’s Angels” and was the only actor to continue with the series for its five-year run. Following “Charlie’s Angels” Jaclyn earned a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of the legendary first lady in “Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy.” She has compiled an impressive filmography of more than 50 films and TV appearances. In 1989, she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She continues to act in television roles, always with show-stopping results. In 1985, Jaclyn entered the business world with the introduction of her collection of women’s apparel and accessories for Kmart stores, pioneering the concept of celebrities developing their own brands rather than merely endorsing others. Since that time more than 100 million women have purchased clothing or accessories bearing her name, making her one of the best recognized people in America. In September 2008, Jaclyn launched her new line of bed and bath decor at Kmart and has since introduced outdoor living, home furnishings and seasonal items. Along with her long-time friend and famed celebrity hair stylist, José Eber, Jaclyn created a new collection of hair fashions and wigs called STYLE by Jaclyn Smith, in partnership with Paula Young, which launched in October 2008. In 2010 Jaclyn collaborated with her husband, Dr. Brad Allen, a renowned medical researcher and pediatric heart surgeon, to develop a family of luxurious cleansers, moisturizers, and protective skincare products. In 2003, Jaclyn battled breast cancer. The journey with cancer made her realize how important it is to have an attitude of gratitude and count your daily blessings. She remains vigilant about her follow-up care. Jaclyn’s husband Brad, son Gaston Anthony and daughter Spencer Margaret keep her centered and serve as her inspiration. She manages her life and legendary career with grace and style.

Actress & Business Mogul

Q and A Charlie’s Angels was iconic not only with the television series but the movies that followed. How does it feel being one of the original Angels? I never dreamed I would be talking about the show 40 years later. I’m happy to be a part of a show that we still talk about, so something must have been right. I think the concept of the show was unique at the time- three women instead of three men. It had a wide demographic from young to old. People still come up to me today and tell me how much they loved the show. What led you to take the leap from acting to designing your own clothing line? I was approached by Kmart. I was under contract with Max Factor at the time and they didn’t want me to do it. At first, I turned down the opportunity at Kmart, but they asked me to come to a meeting and I did. I went in and couldn’t believe the clothing line I saw in there called Hunter’s Glen. It was very remi-

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niscent of Ralph Lauren. I thought, “You know, I’m going to do this” even though a lot of people were against me doing so. It’s probably one of the best decisions I made in my career. I’ve loved it and I’ve gone the distance with the company. We’re coming back strong again after a bankruptcy. I’m part of that family and I cheer for the company. How does it feel to be a grandmother? It’s the joy of my life! It’s like a gift. Later in life, they talk about the golden years. You know- when you have an ache in your knee or this or that, but the grandchildren make it all okay. You get to experience Christmas and Easter like you did with your kids and you believe in all those innocent things again. You’ve had over 100 million women purchase your clothing and accessories. Why do you feel your brand has been so successful? I think my brand is timeless and classic. There’s value there, but there’s quality and there’s detailing to all the pieces whether it be our choice of buttons, embroidery or the lining of a jacket. It’s surprising we can do it for the price point that we do. The style is very elevated. When 46 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

I started there was no black, navy or khaki- it was all pastels. Now, we’re right abreast of the trends of the day because we have loyal customers. When I launched my line, I traveled across the United States visiting stores, meeting my customers and seeing their needs. It’s been an education for me. I know about design, but I learned about how to maintain the quality with the correct price point, while keeping the value important. Also, I think sizing is an important part. If you buy a size 8 it’s an 8. When you buy a plus size, it’s a plus size. Do you wear your own clothing line? I do wear my own clothing because it’s really pretty. We’re doing some vegan leather and people can’t believe we can do it for that price point. I’m a believer in mix and match, high and low. I’ve worn my pieces with different things that I’ve collected, and I’ve worn them with vintage pieces. Anything goes today. It’s all about comfort. When I design my line, if the fabric doesn’t feel good or if it’s not comfortable, I don’t want to use it. My customers have been loyal because we’ve maintained the philosophy of providing fashionable clothing at affordable prices while maintaining quality. Not only are you beautiful, you’re an actress, an entrepreneur, a wife, mother and now a grandmother. How do you juggle it all? Life can’t just be work, work, work. You must maintain a certain standard and schedule and that can be wearing. I always tell women to be good to themselves and make life easy for yourself. I have a very supportive team and I have a wonderful loving husband. It would be silly to say you don’t get stressed or you don’t have a hard time sometimes juggling everything. That’s just life and its ups and downs. I grew up a certain way, so I’m grateful for what I have.

I’m so lucky to have this life; working at my age is kind of amazing. I have two great children and they’re very much a part of my life. I’m one of those mothers whose children are my best friends and I want to spend time with them. I’m kind of a homebody and being home gives me balance and strength. My grandchildren give me joy. In 2002 you were diagnosed with breast cancer. What went through your mind when you received this horrible news? Fear. Fear of not being here for my children. The doctor came and told me that I had breast cancer, that they caught it early and that I was going to be okay. I just remember saying, “Am I going to be here for my children? He said, “You’re definitely going to be here for your children.” I went to that appointment by myself because it was just an annual mammogram. My response was, “I want to have a mastectomy. I want this done immediately.” I called my husband who is a pediatric heart surgeon and was in Chicago at the time. I called my mother in Houston. They both said, “No, you don’t have breast cancer!” I said, “Yes, I do.” They were in shock.

My husband told me that I needed an advocate; I needed someone who was knowledgeable to talk sense to me because the best prognosis for me was to have a lumpectomy and radiation which is what I did. I had a sentinel node biopsy and my nodes were negative. My husband Brad said I would be crazy to have a mastectomy. He said, “They’re going to watch you every six months.” So that’s what I did. Without him I might have gone ahead and said, “Do the mastectomy,” even though my doctor said I didn’t need it. It was the fear talking. I just wanted to get it behind me. It’s been 18 years now, and here I am. I spent three years touring the country and just talking to women about breast cancer, what the risk factors are, living healthy and emphasizing the importance of getting their mammograms. I’m still an advocate of getting a mammogram after the age of 40 every year. Women need to be smart today. What’s on the horizon for you? Is anything new and exciting coming up? We’ve come out with a new fabric called “Inside out performance fabric.” You wouldn’t believe that it could be worn outside. It can also be worn inside. You wouldn’t think it could withstand sun, wind and rain but it does. It’s a beautiful high-quality fabric. If it gets dirty you just wash it off with soap and water. It doesn’t fade in the sun. It’s a miracle fabric. I just launched it with interior designers from all over. I also just did a Christmas movie called “Random Acts of Christmas” for the Lifetime network. Tell us something that we don’t know about Jaclyn Smith. I would say I love to laugh. I love to joke. I think people see you on film and they think you’re so sophisticated. I think my image on film projects something else, but I’m kind of crazy and funny. I grew up in Houston which I refer to as a magical place. It was just easy and fun. It wasn’t rigid. I’m really a Texas girl even though I’ve lived in California and in New York. Texas will never leave me. You have many more years ahead of you. What do you want to be remembered for? It’s always about family; being a good mother and wife. It’s about kindness and just living life right, like my parents did. I think when you’re a mother nothing becomes more important than doing that. Now I have my grandchildren which are an extension of them. I’d like to be remembered as a good person who did things in the proper way. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Being your own person is empowering. It’s not having to have the last word; being confident but not overconfident; not having to prove yourself; less is more. When you have to be right you lose your power when you can say “OK, this is what I think,” and have the power to walk away and not have to convince someone else you’re right, because there’s something desperate about that. I think desperation stagnates good things. www.jaclynsmith.com jaclynsmithbeauty.com

Jaclyn’s short list of To Do’s – for everyday skin health & beauty

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Don’t smoke and limit or avoid alcohol!!! Drink plenty of water, and eat a wellbalanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Follow a sound beauty routine integrated with first class products that work with the routine – be consistent, find a simple regime you can follow. A routine you can’t or don’t follow is of no use. Wash your face with lukewarm water twice every day. Be sure to remove makeup gently and thoroughly – never go to bed in makeup. Sleep is important, so get 7-8 hours each night. Always wear sunscreen with complete UVA/UVB protection on any day you will be outside. Sunglasses help protect your delicate eye area from sun exposure, and prevent squinting, which can form lines. Make an effort to reduce your stress.

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Bobbie L. Belle B

obbie L. Belle has over six years experience in the entertainment field. She is the owner and CEO of Everything Entertainment LLC which is a recording studio and independent record label providing recording services and finding and promoting talent nationally. Bobbie supports artists and their vision, knowing that their passion and love for what they do is what will connect them with their audience. She loves meeting new artists and raising them to new heights in their music career. Bobbie is responsible for promoting new artists, records and distributing recordings. She also handles marketing and advertising for clients and the company. Bobbie states, “Dreams can come true, just work hard and never quit! You can overcome anything. I spent years in prison, overcame an addiction, got off parole and never looked back. I started in 2010 from nothing, coming home from prison and learning everything I could about the music business. I still learn new things to date. I have no choice but to make this work! I have too many people to prove wrong. Everything Entertainment LLC was created to help artists of all genres and walks of life to make their dreams come true. We are a family and help one another grow and evolve in our careers as well as our everyday lives.” In her spare time, Bobbie enjoys reading and shopping.

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Owner and CEO Everything Entertainment LLC

How did you get started in your field or industry? I was always into music. I connected with Chris “The Crisis” Hayes and started working at Dyhard Entertainment. What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in your career? Being a woman! Not being taken seriously and being taken advantage of monetarily. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? We couldn’t possibly know or do what our counterparts can do. We are not given the same opportunities as our male counterparts and we are not getting equal pay. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment to me means having the power to stand up for what you believe and making your dreams come true no matter what it takes. everythingentertainmentllc.com

Charlotte L. Murphy Author, Motivational Speaker, Entrepreneur BelieveInspire

harlotte (Char) L. Murphy is a non-practicing attorney, four-time breast cancer survivor, inspirational author, motivational speaker, entrepreneur and the founder of BelieveInspire. As a single mother, Char put herself through law school at the age of 32. She earned her B.A. in Psychology and English from the University of Arkansas Little Rock in 1980 and her J.D. at the University of Arkansas Little Rock- William H. Bowen School of Law in 1990. After running a successful law firm for 15 years, Char became ill and lost it all. This led to years of confusion where she felt that she had lost her entire identity as a well-known attorney. However, the upside is that it led to Char’s current career. She uses her experiences and motivates others through her writing, blogging, speaking engagements and consulting. Char is a teacher, coach and counselor. She writes inspirational and instructional blogs which are published on her website, Believeinspire.us. A social media expert, she encourages others to learn how to market themselves using the latest trends. Char consults professionally and personally, is a branding expert and an empowerment whisperer for women. In addition to her own motivational speaking engagements, Char is a contributor and speaker for the Komen Foundation. She is a volunteer for Heifer International, a board member and contributor to A.L.S., a former board member of the Salvation Army, and holds memberships with the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association, the Arkansas Bar Association, and the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Association (which encourages children’s education). Char is a contributor to the Arkansas Art Center, the Arkansas Theatre Association, and the Pulaski County Humane Society. Her published works include the book “Power Up, Super Women,” and co-authoring and authoring numerous articles in many different venues. Among her honors, Char was named a Best Lawyer in Central Arkansas, the Best Actor in the Vagina Monologues in Sedona, Arizona, and was featured in an article, “Best of the Best in Arkansas.” In her spare time, she enjoys fishing, fine arts, acting, being an artist, photography, travel, animal rescue, volunteering with nonprofits, writing and social media.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? I have had more than one career in my lifetime. I would say the biggest challenges I have faced are without a doubt, recurrent breast cancer forcing me from my legal career into “recreating myself ” in a totally new light. What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed? Know your passion and purpose; set your goals, keeping the standards for yourself high; make a plan and just START. Love and believe in yourself; be persistent, patient and positive no matter what comes up against you. Keep going! What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means, giving yourself and others the “encouragement” necessary, to access your talents, courage, strengths, will to succeed and inner power. It means to go within and dig out those “gemstones of truth” which are buried deep and bring them into the light to shine. Believeinspire.us P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 49

elebrity Interior Designer Kari Whitman founded Kari Whitman Interiors (KWI) in Los Angeles in 1994. The firm has offices in Los Angeles, New York City, and Aspen/Boulder. KWI has done projects all over the world. Kari is one of Hollywood’s most sought-after interior designers. Famous clients include Jessica Alba, Kristen Bell, Melanie Griffith, Antonio Banderas, Don Johnson and Don Henley. Kari is known for her eclectic design style and knowledge of eco-friendly and pet friendly interior design. Her expertise includes commercial interior design and projects ranging from condos to estate homes, boutique hotels to large-scale residential developments. Kari is a member of the American Society for Interior Design. Regardless of a project’s size, Kari assists her clients in all

phases of home design including selecting and purchasing furnishings, fabrics, and surfaces. She oversees the entire process from the initial concept to contracting, project management, complete furnishing and final installation. Kari fashions spaces for her clients that reflect their personality, affinities and needs. Her work has graced 14 magazine covers and over 100 articles worldwide. She was chosen as one of the top ten designers in the world for 2018. Kari also holds the honor of having been selected as the interior designer for Park La Brea, a large development in the historic Miracle Mile district in Los Angeles. From athletes, actors, royal families, luxury high rise apartments, or even a modest juice bar, no job is too big or too small when Kari Whitman Interior’s passion is behind the force.

Kari Whitman

Interior design is a true talent. When did you know it was your calling? I’ve always had an affinity for design, art and space. When I was about seven my parents took me to Hawaii on a vacation. I remember them saying, “Hey, we’re going down to the pool.” And I said, “OkayI’m going to stay up here for a few hours.” I reconfigured the entire hotel room. In high school they had a drafting program and from that point I was hooked. My stepfather was an artist, so I was always surrounded by a lot of art. Then I got side-tracked and was a model and actress for a while until I realized that it was absolutely not my calling. So, I just started my own firm. Emilio Estevez was my first client. How did you get a reputation as a “celebrity designer?” Luckily, I had done a movie with Emilio Estevez and Charlie Sheen. While I was doing that movie, they came over to my little studio apartment in Hollywood when I was a broke actress. They were like, “Oh my God- this is amazing!” They both

asked me to work on their houses and hired me, and that started my celebrity designing world. It began with my simply working with them in movies and getting to know that kind of celebrity scene. Dogs are near and dear to your heart. Tell us about Greener Pup. I have a nonprofit dog rescue foundation called Ace of Hearts, which I started in 2001 in memory of my beloved dog Ace who I rescued

Interior Designer Kari Whitman Interiors from a high kill shelter in Santa Monica. In honor of Ace, I’ve saved over 7,000 dogs to date. I started a dog bed company called Greener Pup. Everything is recycled but the zippers. The inside of the bed is made of recycled plastic bottles that would have gone to landfills. We use anywhere from 100 to 170 bottles per bed. We’ve just started doing a blue jean denim line for dog beds also. 100% of the profits go right back to Ace of Hearts. What advice would you give to women who want to break into the interior design field? If you want to start your own business as an interior designer, you have to know you’re not going to have time for anything else. Doing some stuff for free in the beginning to get some press and get your name out there is extremely important. You need to get to know the right vendors and people so you can have an “in” with them and get a great deal if you get a client. You need to stand out. www.greenerpup.com kariwhitmaninteriors.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 51

native San Franciscan, Doris Bergman entered “show biz” at the age of four as a piano prodigy, debuting as a guest soloist with the San Francisco Symphony at the age of ten. Doris’s talent caught the attention of Maestro Arthur Fielder who subsequently invited her to perform with the San Francisco ‘Pops’ and Boston ‘Pops’ Orchestras as a featured guest soloist. At the age of 17, she debuted with Maestro Leonard Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic for the ‘Young People’s Concerts’ Series. Doris earned her B.M. from Mount St. Mary’s College in Brentwood, California and her M.M. from the University of Southern California. Upon graduation, Doris became the booking manager of the Los Angeles ‘Pops’ Orchestra, famous for their dinner concerts at the Century Plaza Hotel, Jonathan and California Clubs. She brought to the ‘Pops’ the talent of Donna Summer, Nell Carter, Jose Feliciano, Robin Williams, Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jack Jones, John & Bonnie Raitt, Chic Corea, and David Benoit, to name a few. After a four-year tenure with the Los Angeles ‘Pops’ Orchestra, Doris was invited to become the executive director/booking manager of the Embassy Theatre in Downtown Los Angeles. Having developed relationships with major symphony orchestras and conductors alike, she booked The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, The Mozart Orchestra, The Los Angeles ‘Pops’ Orchestra and The California Symphony Orchestra. In 1987, Doris produced a land-

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mark AIDS benefit concert entitled ‘First Evening in June’ directed by Jerry Blatt and written by Bruce Vilanch. The talent included Bette Midler, Barry Manilow, The Manhattan Transfer, Gotham, Robert Townsend, Ellen Green, Bud Friedman, Aaron Russo, Melissa Manchester, Ken Page and more. This concert became the prototype for what was to become APLA’s “Commitment to Life” show. Later that year, she was invited to produce the opening of the Westin Maui Hotel with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra and booked Nell Carter for the performance. In late 1987, Doris formed The Bergman Organization, a full-service marketing, public relations and event production company, producing concerts and special events for nonprofit and corporate entities including Planet Hope, The L.A. Mart, United Way, City of Hope, Aid for AIDS, APLA, Welton Beckett & Assoc., ARCO, and The Westin Hotel Group. Celebrity guest/ performers booked and promoted by Doris included Sidney Poitier, Anthony Quinn, Edward James Olmos, Sharon Stone, Lee Iacocca, Paula Abdul, Dionne Warwick, Kurt Rus-

sell, Daniel Baldwin, John Carpenter, Peter Fonda, Raquel Welch, Sean Young, Jamie Lee Curtis, the cast of ‘Everybody Loves Raymond,’ the cast of ‘Hollywood Squares,’ and more. Having garnered strong relationships with celebrities and media, in 2005, Doris decided to shift her focus to public relations. She quickly developed a significant clientele and Bergman Public Relations was born. Her firm specializes in all aspects of celebrities, news, products and entertainment. Doris still manages to produce annual Oscar and Emmy events along with product launches, book signings, and restaurant openings. Recently, along with social media Guru, Diego Valdez, Doris co-founded The Hollywood Trinity, an all-inclusive one-stop service which introduces brands to the public through clever marketing, public relations and social media campaigns, including events. Along with over ten associates and experts in their respective fields, The Hollywood Trinity provides maximum exposure and strategic brand positioning through a cohesive and intelligent approach. Doris lives in Los Angeles with her husband, attorney Albert L. Sassoe, Jr.

Doris Bergman Co-Founder The Hollywood Trinity What was it like performing at a young age with so many famous orchestras and did you have a favorite? It was exhilarating. There was no fear – just excitement. I remember the general manager of The San Francisco Symphony coming to my dressing room and saying, “Ms. Bergman, you’re on.” I was only 10 years old and I performed Bach’s F Minor Piano Concerto at the San Francisco Opera House. It was like a dream. My favorite orchestra was The New York Philharmonic. Leonard Bernstein conducted, and I performed “Rachmaninoff Variations on a Theme of Paganini.” Leonard was a trip. When I went to his home to meet him for the first time, a young man opened the door and ushered me into the Grand Room where Leonard was relaxing on his chaise. I didn’t know whether to shake his hand or “bow to the master!” What led to the shift in your career from performing to booking and production? I couldn’t make a dime performing! I graduated with a Master’s in Music from USC, taught piano for a while and was miserable. I was offered a position with The Los Angeles Philharmonic, but the piano is considered a percussion instrument within the orchestra and I was a solo artist,

damn it! So, I continued teaching piano to miserable little rich kids and, one day, a man named Victor Wong approached me. He said, “Doris Bergman – I remember you. I put you on stage when you were ten years old – I was the general manager of The San Francisco Symphony the year you performed.” Victor then went on to tell me that he was now managing The Los Angeles ‘Pops’ Orchestra and asked if I would like to come work for him. I was subsequently hired by the board of directors as the booking manager of The Los Angeles ‘Pops’ Orchestra and the rest is history. How have you managed to retain your excitement, enthusiasm and wonderful sense of humor after all these years? Well, either you keep ‘em laughing or you keep ‘em crying. I prefer laughter. There is humor to be found in all situations – you just can’t take yourself too seriously. How do you maintain a balance between your personal and public life? Pills and liquor! Just kidding. It’s about knowing when it’s important to attend a public event and when it’s important to stay home. I much prefer staying home. I’m a solitary person and I find that I enjoy my own company best of all. My husband is very similar to me. We’re both Geminis so I guess that is why we get

along so well and understand each other so completely. You lead a very busy and exciting life. What do you do to relax and unwind? I listen to great classical music. Classical music tends to put me in another world. I become enveloped by the music and transport my mind to a place in time when the particular composer lived and wonder what inspired him to compose such ethereal music. Beethoven’s 7th Symphony is my favorite, along with Dvorak’s “New World Symphony,” Barber’s “Adagio For Strings,” Respighi’s “Pines of Rome,” and Hindemith’s “Mathis de Mahler,” to name a few, and I haven’t even touched upon my favorite piano music! What does empowerment mean to you? For me, empowerment is having a strong belief in yourself, regardless of what others think or say. It’s standing up and owning your beliefs, convictions and opinions; not backing down but always being diplomatic. You empower yourself by empowering others. Listen and learn. Sometimes, we have a tendency to talk too much, me included. We are better served by listening. Knowledge is power. www.bergmanpr.com www.thehollywoodtrinity.com

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idia Bastianich is an Emmy award-winning public television host and chef, a best‐selling cookbook author with a dozen books published to date, a successful restaurateur, and owner of a flourishing food and entertainment business. Most importantly, Lidia has accomplished all of this by marrying her two passions in life – her family and food, to create multiple culinary endeavors alongside her two children, Joseph and Tanya. Co-authored with her daughter Tanya, Lidia’s cookbooks include “Lidia’s Celebrate Like an Italian,” “Lidia’s Mastering the Art of Italian Cuisine,” “Lidia’s Commonsense Italian Cooking,” “Lidia’s Favorite Recipes,” “Lidia’s Italy in America,” “Lidia Cooks from the Heart of Italy,” and “Lidia’s Italy,” all companion books to the Emmy winning and four-time nominated television series “Lidia’s Kitchen,” “Lidia’s Italy in America” and “Lidia’s Italy.” Lidia’s most recent book is her memoir, “My American Dream: A Life of Love, Family, and Food,” which was released on April 3, 2018. A restaurateur since 1971, Lidia is the owner/co-owner of three acclaimed New York City restaurants ‐ Felidia, Becco and Del Posto. Along with her daughter Tanya, she owns Lidia’s Kansas City, as well as Felidia. She is also a partner in Eataly NYC, Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Sao Paolo, Brazil. Together with Tanya and son-in-law Corrado, Lidia also has developed a line of artisanal pastas and all-natural sauces, called LIDIA’S, which are sold at fine food stores nationwide. Lidia is a member of Les Dames D’Escoffier and founding member of Women Chefs and Restaurateurs, two nonprofit organizations of women leaders in the food and hospitality industries. She is also a champion for the United Nations Association of the United States of America’s

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Photo: Kerry Parker

B A S T I A N I C H Adopt-A-Future program, in support of refugee education. Throughout her career, Lidia has helped raise funds for many humanitarian causes including UNICEF. She created the Lidia Matticchio Bastianich Foundation in 1999, which helps better people in all walks of life. Lidia also supports and is active with numerous nonprofits that celebrate and promote Italian and Italian-American culture. Among the numerous awards and accolades Lidia has earned are seven James Beard Awards (Outstanding Chef, Television Food Show, Best Chefs in America, Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America, Specials 2016, Special 2017 and 2018), and two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Culinary Host (2013 and 2018).

Author, Chef, TV Host, Restaurateur, Entrepreneur Lidia with Graduating Class 2019, Culinary Institute of America

Lidia with Erminia and Julia

Photo: Michael Heintz

With everything you’ve experienced as a young child whose family escaped the communist regime in Yugoslavia, how has that shaped who you are today? I was born in Pula which was originally part of Italy. After World War II that part of the country was given to communist Yugoslavia. Everything changed- even our names. We couldn’t speak Italian and we couldn’t go to church. I grew up in a period of scarcity. My grandmother was in charge. She had an old farm with rabbits, ducks, chickens, goats and pigs. We depended on her garden as well. We dried figs and beans for the winter. I grew up very connected to the growth and production of food. In 1956 my parents decided to leave my grandmother’s and escape back to Italy. To this day, when I cook, all the smells remind me of cooking with my grandmother. It’s all about food and family. That’s what Italians are about. Being that you work very closely with your family, how are you able to separate your personal and professional lives? It’s not easy but you have to do it. You must give your children space to grow. Initially you teach them and then become their mentor. Then you’ve got to let them develop. It’s family time when we’re at the restaurants but in the office it’s business time. Do you have a favorite dish that you make? I love pasta! I love making pasta with linguini with clams.

Tell us about your cookbooks. My latest cookbook that came out in 2017 celebrates Italian style. It’s a wonderful book about gatherings and cooking for many people. It’s a beautiful book with a lot of instructions and a lot of good food. I recently published my memoir, “My American Dream: A Life of Love, Family, and Food.” It tells the story of who I am, how I traveled here when I was twelve years old and how I evolved as an American but still kept my Italian identity. I feel very blessed. I have two of the best cultures in the world. In October of this year “Felidia, Recipes from My Flagship Restaurant” will be released. Felidia was my third restaurant, but my first one in Manhattan and the one where I took over the kitchen until Executive Chef Fortunato Nicotra arrived in 1996. This book will feature both of our recipes from the early days at Felidia until today; they were created and modified so that the home cook can make these restaurant style recipes at home. Between the restaurants, television series, books, Nonna’s food line, wines and cookware, how do you juggle It all? It takes a lot of people including family and other chefs. We all collaborate and work together. It’s not a solitary journey. At this point in my life what I really enjoy is the mentorship element where I pass on knowledge that I’ve collected in my lifetime to the new generations coming into the kitchen starting with my children.

What does the word women’s empowerment mean to you? As a woman in the restaurant industry it’s very tough. I must say that in Italy women are in the kitchen rather than men. But men still run the restaurants. To me, empowering women means that women can own restaurants and should own restaurants. To this day financial institutions are reluctant to finance women in the industry. What was it like to cook for two popes? When I look back, it still feels unreal to me. When Pope Benedict came to visit, I was asked by the ambassador from the Vatican to cook for him. Of course, I said “Yes.” When Pope Francis came I was asked again. You know the pope doesn’t eat out in restaurants or stay in hotels. They stay at their embassy. So we went there using their kitchen and cooked for the pope. I did a little research and prepared what each one liked. I was asked to propose a menu and sent it to the Vatican ahead of time so they could give me direction. Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you. I feel great about being a mother and a grandmother. I have five wonderful grandchildren and I enjoy involving them into my passion; into my cooking. I think most people would say I beat the odds having made it as an immigrant woman. I came here not speaking the language, not having anybody here. People should always dream and believe that you can achieve your dream. Be passionate about it. Inform yourself; keep yourself on top of things; nurture yourself; invest in yourself. Be prepared to spend lots of hard work. What’s next for you? I want to do more fundraising and bring others together to support the different causes I feel are important. I will continue to work and keep writing cookbooks. I will work with my children running the restaurants and travel. I love to travel. I want to know the world and the foods of the world. lidiasitaly.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 55

Food

Turkey Breast with Apricots Petto di Tacchino con Albicocche

This is a fabulous dish for those special dinners when you do not feel like dealing with a whole turkey. It cooks much faster, and the recipe can be doubled, using two whole breasts, if you have a big crowd. Ingredients: Serves 8 8 ounces dried apricots 1/2 cup bourbon 7-pound whole bone-in turkey breast (if your butcher has a neck or giblets, take those, too) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste 3 tablespoons extra- virgin olive oil 3 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch chunks 3 stalks celery, cut into 1/2-inch chunks 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch chunks 4 sprigs fresh rosemary 4 cups chicken stock

From

Lidia’s Kitchen

Directions: • Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine the apricots and bourbon. Let soak 10 minutes. Remove the apricots, reserving the bourbon. Finely chop half of the apricots, and leave the other half whole. • Rub the softened butter over and under the skin of the turkey breast, and season all over with 1½ teaspoons salt. • In a roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the carrots, celery, and onion, and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to brown and soften, about 6 minutes. (If you have the neck or giblets, add them with the vegetables to brown, too.) Add the chopped apricots, and season with the remaining teaspoon salt. • Pour in the reserved bourbon, and add the rosemary.

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Photo: Steve Giralt

Add the stock, bring to a simmer, and cook until reduced slightly, about 5 minutes. • Fit a rack in the roasting pan, over the vegetables and set the turkey on it, skin side up. Throw the whole apricots into the sauce around the turkey. Cover with foil, and roast 45 minutes. • Uncover, and roast, basting the turkey breast occasionally, until the thickest part of the breast reads 165 degrees on a meat thermometer. Let turkey rest on a cutting board while you finish the sauce. • For the sauce, pluck out the whole apricots and set them aside. Pour the rest of the sauce into a medium saucepan, and mash with a potato masher (or put through a food mill into the saucepan). • Let the sauce sit for a minute, and skim any fat from the top. Bring the sauce to a simmer, and stir in the whole apricots. • Slice the turkey, and arrange it on a platter. Spoon half of the sauce over the sliced turkey. Serve the extra sauce on the side.

Cavolini Brasati con Aceto Brussels sprouts are not usually considered a favorite, but this recipe has converted many of my dinner guests into fans. People may shy away from them because of the intense cabbage flavor when they’re cooked whole, but if you cut them in half and offset the flavor with some acidity, vinegar, everyone will love them.

Photo: Tanya Bastianich Manuali Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling over the finished dish

Directions: • Trim the core of the sprouts. Remove the discolored outer leaves, and cut each sprout vertically in half. Wash them thoroughly, and drain well. • Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a 3-quart braising pot or wide, deep skillet. Smash the garlic cloves with the side of a knife, and toss them into the oil, shaking the pan until they turn golden, about 2 minutes. • Stir the sprouts into the oil, season them lightly with salt, and stir until they turn bright green,

Pear Bread Pudding

Serves 6

Salt 6 cloves garlic, peeled 1 cup water, or as needed 1/2 cup red wine vinegar Freshly ground black pepper

Recipes

Brussel Sprouts Braised with Vinegar

about 3 minutes. Pour in 1 cup water and the vinegar, and bring to a boil. Lower the heat so the liquid is simmering. • Cook, uncovered, until the sprouts are tender and almost falling apart and the liquid is almost completely evaporated, 20 to 25 minutes. If the liquid is evaporated before the sprouts are tender, add more water, about 1/4 cup at a time, as necessary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. • Spoon the sprouts into a warm serving bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, and serve. Serves 6 to 8

Budino di Pere e Pane

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter 6 large eggs 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Zest of 1 lemon, grated 1 cup milk

1 cup heavy cream, plus more to whip for garnish 4 cups day-old 1/2-inch country-bread cubes, crusts removed 2 Bosc pears, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch chunks 1/3 cup blanched sliced almonds

Directions: • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat the baking dish with softened butter. Whisk the eggs in a large bowl. Add all but 2 tablespoons of the sugar, the vanilla, and lemon zest, and whisk to lighten the mixture. Whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Add the bread and pears, and pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. • Sprinkle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar and the almond slices. Bake until the pudding is set and puffy and the top is golden, n about 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool on o ilss N s a rack for 15 minutes; serve warm or arcu M : at room temperature, garnished with to Pho whipped cream.

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

Louise Polite

Hair Stylist | Skin-Care Line Creator | Entrepreneur

ouise Polite is a Long Island-based entrepreneur whose mission is not only to make people look good but feel good. With over 22 years experience in the hair industry, she wanted to give her clients more than just great hair, so with determination and creativity she came up with the idea to start an all-natural body care product line. Through a process of trial and error, along with her client’s positive feedback, Sonny & Dew was born in 2013, when her first set of products were sold at hair salons and local street fairs.

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Being a small business owner, Louise has always looked to create a sense of family. Sonny and Dew is named after her in-laws and stands for the love, family, friendship, and devoted clients who have become extensions of Louise’s family. Sonny & Dew products are handmade with all-natural ingredients on the beautiful shores of Long Island, New York. When it comes to your skin, it’s important to know what you’re putting on it, which is why Sonny & Dew only uses fresh and natural ingredients familiar to everyone. For example, the body butter Louise created contains shea, aloe, vitamin E and blended essential oils. Her first line of products contained body butter, soap and sugar scrubs, all in just a few different scents. As time went on, she experimented more and more with a goal of expanding the product line. Sonny & Dew now has a large variety of scents and products that appeal to all. Louise wanted to give the people of Long Island something that would evoke memories of summers at the beach with family and friends, which is where the inspiration for her number one seller, “Day at The Beach” came from. After a few years of hard work, sweat and very long days getting the product exposed, Sonny & Dew was able to win Long Island’s Best All Natural skincare products three years in a row. Louise’s creativity continues to allow her to expand the company. This includes a full line of hair care products which she formulated using her years of experience in the industry. Shampoo, conditioner, thermal shine, style creme, volumizing spray and hair spray complete her T-Colours hair care line. Louise is an artisan who can go from coloring your hair to creating luxurious all-natural skin care products, makeup, customized party favors or home products. With an incredible amount of creativity and passion, she has successfully been able to exceed everyone’s wants and needs and build a company whose success is continuing to grow. sonnyndew.com

Lynda Fuller

Barbara Steingas

RETAIL Home Décor

HEALTH SERVICES Health Practitioner

Innovative Home Decor Blue Island, Illinois

Barbara Steingas

High Bridge, New Jersey

Soruba “Rani” Kuusto

VIPs

P.O.W.E.R.

Image Outlook HEALTHCARE Consultant

Buena Park, California

Linda F. Jolly-Evans

Renita A. Duncan

BANKING Banker

GOVERNMENT Consultant

Zions Bancorporation Houston, Texas

U.S. Air Force

Los Angeles, California

Jenifer R. Gossman

Kemper Technology Consulting INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY/IT Consultant Evansville, Indiana

Diana A. Garcia

Joanne Crawford

D’Elements Nola

American Leak Detection

Kenner, Louisiana

Gardnerville, Nevada

MASSAGE THERAPY Massage Therapist

CONSTRUCTION Building Contractor

Mariam Kavukchyan Kristine Campbell

Iris A. Young

Superior Plus

Iris A. Young & Associates

Long Beach, California

Uppper Marlboro, Maryland

ACCOUNTING Bookkeeper

COACHING Life Coach

MK Loan Consulting FINANCIAL SERVICES Financial Advisor Glendale, California

Cynthia Stevens-Montgomery Century 21 Award La Mesa

Mel Gauthier

Randi D. Ward

INSURANCE Insurance Agent

HUMAN SERVICES Director

WRITING Freelance Writer

La Mesa, California

Lily of the Valley Ministries Inc Alexandria, Louisana

Randi D. Ward

Lawrenceville, Georgia

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 59

Dr. Gertrude B. Hutchinson

r. Gertrude B. Hutchinson has over 45 years experience in the nursing field. She is an assistant professor, fulltime faculty at The Sage Colleges (TSC) School of Nursing in Troy, New York and an adjunct professor at SUNY Empire State College (ESC) in Saratoga Springs, New York. She teaches nursing theory, nursing fundamentals, and capstone students at TSC, and advanced pathophysiology and nursing theory online for SUNY ESC. She is the former director of history and education, and archivist at the Center for Nursing at the Foundation of New York State Nurses. After obtaining a M.A. in History from SUNY Albany in 2007, Dr. Hutchinson continued her education, obtaining a M.S.I.S. in NARA and Records Management from SUNY Albany in 2009. She then obtained her Doctor of Nursing Science with a focus on Leadership and Education from The Sage Colleges School of Health Sciences in 2016. Dr. Hutchinson is the recent recipient of the Tau Kappa At Large Chapter’s (STTI) “Excellence in Education” award and a past recipient of the Northeast Region New York Organization of Nurse Executives and Leaders Award in recognition of “creative and contemporary leadership in nursing practice.” Dr. Hutchinson is included in the International Who’s Who in Nursing. Dr. Hutchinson is affiliated with the American Nurses As60 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

DNS, RN, MA, MSIS, CCRN-R Lecturer and Full-Time Nursing Faculty - The Sage Colleges Adjunct Professor - SUNY Empire State College sociation, A.N.A.-New York chapter, the International Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau International, and the American Association for the History of Nursing. She is a life member of the Phi Kappa Phi and Golden Key Honor Societies, Phi Alpha Theta History Honor Society, the New York Organization of Nurse Executives and Leaders, the Nurses Educational Fund, the National League for Nurses and its affiliate Nursing League New York and the American Association for the History of Nursing. In her spare time, Dr. Hutchinson volunteers at the Hamilton Union Presbyterian Church and

serves in many leadership capacities as a life member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, NENYONEL, appointed board member to The Omentum Project Discovery Year Advisory Team, and as a volunteer with the Albany and Rensselaer Counties Medical Reserve Corps. She enjoys knitting, crocheting, reading historical fiction, playing piano, walking, family activities, and playing with her 2 cats. Dr. Hutchinson states, “I attribute my success to my inquisitive nature, wanting to help people, education opportunities and having gifts and abilities to leave the world a better place.”

How did you get started in your field/industry? I started my career in acute care nursing. After completing my doctoral studies, realizing I had been teaching in non-conventional settings my entire career, I was hired at SUNY Empire State College as an adjunct faculty for masters-preparing nursing students. Now, I am enjoying my career at Sage with pre-licensure students while continuing to mentor and educate the master’s preparing students at SUNY ESC. What were some of the biggest challenges/ obstacles you faced in your career? One of the biggest challenges I faced at the beginning of my career was understanding that nurses don’t know everything right away. It takes time to grow from a novice to an expert. The same is true of teaching. The development of confidence and expertise grows with each course taught and with each student encounter. What is some advice that helped you juggle your career and family life successfully? Advice I received early on was to “maintain perspective and manage your time well.” My family time

and religious life are very important to me as well as spending time with friends. Time management is a skill I utilize to balance career, family, and self-care. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Flexibility in work schedules is important. When some women have to take “time off” from their career path for personal reasons, having the ability to work from home to stay on the career ladder would be a wonderful challenge to overcome. What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry? Prepare for your career. Attend conferences. Set goals for your career path – understanding that goals set at ages 25-30 may change. Find a mentor in your field to help guide your acculturation to the healthcare environment wherever you work. Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by. In a conversation with friends about “what would you write for your epitaph?” I responded with this statement: ‘She was real.’ That is one quality that people should know about me. www.sage.edu

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 61

eyra Couceiro is the vice president, owner and manager of Triton Supermarkets which has two locations. These local supermarkets offer a one stop shop for anything needed for a day at the beach as well as daily food needs. They have a cafeteria which caters and sells food by the pound, sandwiches, freshly made salads, and shakes. In addition to her retail endeavors, Zeyra is a dog breeder. Her family-owned and operated company, Vom Couceiro German Shepherds Inc., breeds and trains German Shepherds. The dogs are raised and cared for by Zeyra and her family. While many breeders say this, the Couceiro family means it! Instead of baby proofing their home, they puppy proof. There are always dog toys laying around. They do not use kennels ever. They sell German Shepherd puppies, older puppies and adults at times. All the dogs offered for sale are imported from Europe out of the best bloodlines available to produce a healthy, highly intelligent, courageous and loyal German Shepherd puppy that will become part of a family for years to come. They ship German Shepherd puppies and dogs worldwide. Vom Couceiro German Shepherds Inc. offers free continued support and counseling for owners and their dogs. They pride themselves in taking care of each puppy as if it were their own before they go to their new and loving home. The family ensures that all puppies are highly socialized. They also give them swimming therapy to get them adjusted to water and pools. Zeyra is proud of both businesses. Zeyra is also a notary public. She is a member of the G.S.D.C.A., U.S.C.A. and the National Rifle Association. In her spare time, she enjoys shooting, hunting and volunteering.

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Zeyra C. Couceiro

Owner, Vice President, Manager Triton Supermarket How did you get started in your field/industry? My love for supermarkets came from when my husband and I owned gas stations. I’ve had this supermarket for 12 years and I still strive every day to have “everything under the sun,” which is my slogan. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? There are many challenges when you strive to be the best. The larger chain stores and distributors don’t see you as their equal. They tend to squash the smaller stores. It’s cost me time, headaches and perseverance, but I do believe I now have the acknowledgment and respect due to my sales, success and commitment to the industry. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is a word I hold close to my heart. Between my grandmother and my mom, they instilled values and self worth at an early age. I’ve felt empowered ever since I can remember. I became a businesswoman at the age of 18 and by 20 had my own home. If you believe in yourself, never let anyone bring you down, and take obstacles as a mere stepping stone instead of a huge wall, then you can achieve more than you ever imagined. www.germanshepherds4u.co/ www.vomcouceiro.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 63

Elizabeth Whitmer

lizabeth A. Whitmer, RHIT, CCS, CCS-P, AHDI-F has over 25 years experience in the educational arena and in healthcare services. She is a professor in the Health Information Technology program at Florida Southwestern State College. The state college has five locations in southwestern Florida. In addition to serving as an AHIMA recognized ICD10 CM/ PCS Trainer, Elizabeth teaches medical coding, billing, legal compliance, HIPAA guidelines, privacy rules for healthcare patient records, along with Electronic Health Systems technology and security. The courses she covers are: Health Information Management and Supervision, Reimbursement Methodologies, ICD-10 CM/PCS coding, HCPCS, CPT-4 Coding, Anatomy and Physiology. Elizabeth is focused on moving HIT (Health Information Technology) into the future of the healthcare and wellness industry. It is with creativity and an inner desire to further learning that she promotes activities and programs that will make her students productive and successful employees. In addition to her role as an educator, Elizabeth built a phone app for her students and coders that is available through www.myhealthcarecoder.com. She also invented a coding keyboard for coders. She holds two patents for this industry-specific medical coding keyboard

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which is available at https://elliotttechnology.com. Elizabeth has also contributed articles of interest locally, and to the AHIMA. Elizabeth is a member of the American Health Information Management Association and the Florida Health Information Management Association, where she serves as an advocate on the Legislative Committee, working to educate legislators on healthcare bills that affect the State of Florida. She also serves as a student mentor. She has held many positions with FHIMA including director of FIRE (Find, Inspire, Recruit, Educate). She was president of the Southwest Health Information Management Association from 2003-2016. Elizabeth is affiliated with the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity, and the American Association of Professional Coders. She has received numerous awards in her field. Her most recent award is the Triumph Award in Innovation from AHIMA in 2017. When asked about her personal philosophy, Elizabeth states: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is my philosophy, along with W. Edwards Deming, that learning environments that liberate fear and spark passion in students, shall create vibrant long-term learning experiences, improved performance and a system where the students ...come out of the school with knowledge in their heads, not merely information.â&#x20AC;?

Professor Florida Southwestern State College

How did you get started in your field/industry? Healthcare has always been a passion for me. I was going to be a nurse or dental hygienist. After graduating from high school, I began working as a dental assistant. After three years, I began making plans to attend a local community college for dental hygiene. Alas, due to an unexpected diagnosis of a severe latex allergy, this changed the entire direction of my future.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Explaining what it is I do. People don’t understand that without Health Information Technology professionals, there’s no revenue generated for hospitals, doctor offices, nursing staff, and every other ancillary department that is healthcare. We are the revenue generators. Hospitals and doctors don’t make money. We make it for them.

How do you achieve work/life balance? Having the passion for my work is contagious and exhausting. I exercise, do yoga and horseback ride. I do not watch television. I am always thinking ahead of my profession. My balance comes from a man that supports all of my quirks and matches my energy.

What advice has helped you succeed in your career? Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. As a 22+ year HIM professional I have spent half of my time mentoring and teaching. With ample creativity and an inner desire to assist further learning, I stepped out of the box to promote employee productivity and job satisfaction. www.fsw.edu P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 65

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Kari R. Wilson

Professor Florida Southwestern State College

Award

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Director The Eudora Wilson House

ari R. Wilson is the director of The Eudora Wilson House, named for her mother-in-law, which is an assisted living facility in Pilot Rock, Oregon. In October of 2018, Kari bought a local old Baptist church and an adjacent building. She is working to renovate and reopen the two structures as the Eudora Wilson House. The Pilot Rock City Council has approved a conditional use permit to operate the facility, which would be the only one of its kind in the town of about 1,500. The home will add 12-15 jobs, including kitchen and care staff and is going to provide employees with on-site day care. Kari is responsible for general oversight of the facility. She also oversees fundraising efforts, community outreach, hiring, marketing, problem solving and providing basic caring for seniors. The center will house up to 14 people, including couples. Much of the renovation is taking place in the building next to the church, where contractors are erecting bedroom walls, walk-in showers and are working on a kitchen complete with a commercial gas stove. The church next door has an old stage which will serve as performance space or to display movies from a digital projector. The biggest part of the project is the construction of a hall to connect the church to the building. With over 20 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience, Kari began her career in healthcare in 1995 when she worked for Umatilla Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s detoxification program. From there, she served with the longclosed state psychiatric center in Pendleton and the former Blue Mountain Recovery Center, the Pendleton facility that treated addicts and the mentally ill. Since June 2015, Kari has cared for her mother-in-law, Eudora Wilson. Once the new facility opens, Kari has been assured that her mother-in-law wants to move right in. In her spare time, Kari enjoys playing golf and travel. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 67

Shanette Barth Cohen Executive Director Hampton Classic Horse Show

hanette Barth Cohen was named the executive director of the Hampton Classic Horse Show in June 2005 and assumed the role in April 2006. A former frequent competitor at the Classic, Shanette is a lifelong rider. During her tenure with the Hampton Classic, she has overseen numerous additions including an expanded Boutique Garden with more than 20 additional shops, major capital improvements to the stabling and parking areas and a $1M renovation of the Grand Prix field prior to the 2019 show. Two of her proudest accomplishments are the establishment of the Long Island Horse Show Series for Riders with Disabilities Finals and the addition of Animal Adoption Day, which gives rescued dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses a platform to find their forever home. Prior to joining the Hampton Classic, Shanette operated the Barth Group LLC company which she founded in 1999. This New York based event-marketing firm served major cor68 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

porations and nonprofit organizations by providing event planning and sponsorship marketing services. Previously, Shanette was the director of marketing development for the American Horse Shows Association (now the United States Equestrian Federation). She currently serves as vice president of the Board of the HEART Equine Ambulance. She served as a director-at-large of the New York Junior League from 2013-2016, and has volunteered with the NYJL since 1998. She also served for a decade in a volunteer role as co-executive director of the International Student Riding Association. Shanette previously worked in Washington, DC as a lobbyist and as a White House assistant in the Administration of President George Herbert Walker Bush. A graduate of Mount Holyoke College, Shanette lives in East Hampton, New York with her husband, Bryan Cohen. www.hamptonclassic.com

Photos by Alex Wolff Photography

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

Annette Naif Event Planner Naif Productions

aif Productions, led by Annette Naif, is a strategic event planning, design and production firm based in New York City. Whether planning an adventure for two, an executive retreat, corporate training, a gala, fundraiser, wedding or a citywide festival, Naif Productions utilizes the talents of the best vendors and venues in the business to produce and create upscale, seamless events worldwide. Helping clients create their unique style that translates into a memorable experience has been Annette’s passion since she became an event planner and wedding planner more than 25 years ago. The drive to provide a distinctive role for superior personalized service in the event planning industry inspired her to launch the company in 2010. Pulling together her years in motion picture, television production and corporate event development, Annette has seen how hitting just the right creative “note” can spark conversation, build relationships and create brand loyalty beyond measure. The key is to deliver a flawless, distinctive and superior personalized experience. 70 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

What inspired you to start an event planning business? Boredom! Funnily enough, I started my business in 2010 because I was bored in my corporate job as the director of operations and events for a commercial real estate company. I had a cushy job, made a lot of money, had my own driver and a beautiful office overlooking Times Square. However, I was bored out of my mind. I had just graduated college (I went back to school late in life), the economy crashed and the company’s business was at a standstill. Within four months of starting my business, I started to get clients and then I got laid me off. With my fierce negotiating skills, I was able to negotiate a one-year severance package. My life as an entrepreneur began. With all the events you produce, how do you maintain your exemplary customer service? Top-notch customer service is everything. We don’t take on every client and we have solid systems in place, which help us give the quality of service our clients rave about. I am personally hands-on with all our clients and our response time is extremely fast. We become an extension of the client’s team and provide the handholding service and wealth of knowledge our clients appreciate. Are there certain types of events you enjoy planning more than others? We love all types and sizes of events. As a strategic event planning, design and production company our goal is to help our clients produce a successful event. Of course, we love events with beautiful décor where there is a fun visual aspect to the event, but helping a client increase their sales, launch a successful coaching program or boost employee moral is what we excel at. What advice would you give to young people interested in starting their own event business? Hiring an event planning coach who has years of experience in the industry is the best money you will spend. The money you spend on a coach will far outweigh the money you spend on making costly mistakes. Believe me, I’ve made my share of mistakes over the past 25 years. We offer a personal coaching program that teaches event planners on how to start an event business without spending a lot of money. We hate to see planners struggle through the process. What does empowerment mean to you? It’s extremely empowering to run a successful business. There is nothing more empowering than coaching our clients through the process of producing a successful live event. We don’t just put out flowers and call it a day. We help our clients through the entire process – whether it is the creation of the event website, messaging, branding, event marketing, logistics, site selection and contract negotiation, onsite management, speakers or sponsors. You name it, we help develop the strategies to generate significant income from a live event. www.naifproductions.com

Author and Ghost Writer

s a small child, Alberta Cotner and her family traveled throughout the nation, as her father aspired to be a Country Western singer. This experience became integral to her innate ability of making up stories about the places they visited and the people they met. After taking a creative writing course in high school, she embraced writing and journaling as a hobby and joined the U.S. Navy, serving as a welder, a firefighter, an instructor and a corrections specialist among many other roles before having a serious accident, which severed her naval career. Alberta moved back to the Midwest and started a new life, fought and survived cancer and the devastating loss of her son and started writing again. She now serves as an author, ghost writer, counselor and inspirational speaker. Alberta is a member of the Rave Reviews Book Club and the Authors Independent Alliance. She is currently working on a novel, “Charley’s Breaking Point,” regarding obstacles faced in life, due this year. In her spare time, she enjoys horses, Mini Australian Shepherds, reading, writing, working with young adults in a local youth program and working with a local elderly center, sharing her stories and bringing the residents happiness. Alberta’s motto is “Never give up!”

Award

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

How did you get started in your field/industry? I have always journaled since taking a creative writing class in high school. Journaling allowed me a place to express my thoughts and feelings. After the death of my son, I found journaling helped me to really express my emotions that many did not understand. After that, I began writing to share myself and my experiences with others. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? I feel the most common challenge is having the support of our peers… no matter what position, job or title they may have in their business. We, as women, need to be proud and be there for each other. What advice would you give your younger self? I wish I would have had the courage to live a life truer to myself sooner. What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why? I believe one of the greatest leaders of our time is Colin Powell. One of his books is called “Soldier: The Life of Colin Powell.” It tells the whole story about the man, the soldier and the leader. This is one of my favorite quotes... “If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters.” - Colin Powell What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? I’m stubborn. When I get something in my head, I never quit until it’s what I want or the way I want it. How do you bring ideas to life? My ideas sometimes take on a life of their own. I actually strategize about the idea and plot out the best way to bring it to life. www.albertacotner.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 71

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Linda Dunnigan

inda Dunnigan is a life coach at Life Coach Linda Dunnigan in Sarasota, Florida. She provides life coaching for all ages targeting decreasing stress, motivation, success, bereavement, business and personal business consulting. She centers upon situations of everyday life to high stress situations. Linda helps individuals, couples, children, ages ten and up, families, large and small businesses, corporations, private and public organizations, and provides seminars and public speaking support. Linda’s clients are from all walks of life. She takes special care to understand the unique needs of each of her clients to design custom solutions that exceed expectations. Born in New York, New York, Linda obtained a B.S. in Business Marketing from Stony Brook College. Linda works with clients from all over the U.S. and out of the country by offering free consultations over the phone 24/7, Monday thru Sunday. She will meet in-person with local clients in Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice, Florida. Linda states, “I believe that you can grow into the person or business that you wish to be if you have the right tools. Keep calm and carry on! For the first time in your life give yourself a chance to really get to fulfill your life and the people around you.” In her spare time, she enjoys art and family activities.

Life Coach Life Coach Linda Dunnigan

How did you get started in your field or industry? I was born to care, listen and learn from everyone and to try and help all that crossed my path in any way I could. What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in your career? It took me a while to understand that my way was “My Way.” Not everyone thinks, acts, talks, lives and responds in the same manner. Everyone is different and deserves to be that way as long as it is not hurting or harmful. I understand that their journey through life may have been much easier or harder than my own. How do you achieve work/life balance? Separate personal from business. Find peace and serenity in meditation, music and environments of soothing calmness in sound, color and music. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours? I look at art work and enjoy solitude. I enjoy interacting with my grandson, having family moments, sitting by the water and enjoy sunsets and nature. What book is on your bedside table right now and why? “The 5 Languages of Love” by Gary Chapman, the complete series. What does empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means being stronger with life’s challenges and being more confident in moving forward with all circumstances, experience and hopes. Also making dreams happen. What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? Not procrastinating is key. What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why? “Thoughts and Feelings: Taking Control of Your Moods and Your Life,” Martha Davis, Ph.D. and Patrick Fanning, 4th edition. What advice would you give your younger self? Keep calm and carry on. Life is only 10%; 90% is how you react to it. What people do, say, act and think towards you is none of your business. It is theirs and theirs alone. www.lifecoachlindadunnigan.com (941) 377-8602 P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 73

“Time is shortening. But every day that I challenge this cancer and survive is a victory for me.” Ingrid Bergman

“Cancer opens many doors. One of the most important is your heart.” Greg Anderson “You know, once you’ve stood up to cancer, everything else feels like a pretty easy fight.” David H. Koch

“We have two options, medically and emotionally: give up or fight like hell.” Lance Armstrong

“I’m battling cancer. It’s another battle I intend to win.” Arlen Specter

“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and twice as beautiful as you’d ever imagined.” Anonymous

Barbara Vivolo

s the Founder and Owner of Barbara’s Hair Studio, Barbara Vivolo has complete empathy for her customers. She understands what it’s like to face breast cancer and deal with the physical and emotional results since she herself is a survivor. At the age of 40, with three young children at home, Barbara was diagnosed with breast cancer. She opted to undergo a double mastectomy and had full breast reconstruction surgery. Thankfully, Barbara made a full recovery. An experienced cosmetologist since 1984, Barbara started styling wigs for her mother and aunt who were diagnosed with breast cancer and un-

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“Above all, cancer is a spiritual practice that teaches me about faith and resilience.” Kris Carr

Owner | Barbara’s Hair Studio

derwent chemotherapy treatment. She wanted to help ease the trauma they felt due to hair loss from chemotherapy treatments. This became her life’s mission and passion. As a result of this experience, Barbara continued her commitment to helping cancer patients and other women who suffered from hair loss. She welcomes each client into her salon, measures and fits their wig so it looks like natural hair and styles the wig to show each person’s personal sense of style. Barbara offers a free initial consultation and walks her clients through the entire process. Barbara is a certified health and wellness coach. She receives ongoing training as a hair and wig stylist. She is also trained and certified as a Master Wig Fitter and Stylist. She is an advocate for women and has been working with New York lawmakers who are trying to pass a bill requiring health insurance companies to cover the cost of wigs and hair toppers during cancer treatments. Many women (and men) struggle to pay for the cost of cranial prostheses and Barbara hopes to alleviate this through her efforts. In addition to wigs, Barbara offers toppers for thinning hair to cover bald spots, shaving, and assistance through hair recovery. One can be assured that as soon as you walk through the door of Barbara’s Hair Studio you are in good hands. If you would like to make an appointment, contact Barbara at (631) 672-4855. www.barbarashairstudio.com

Photo: Richard Brusky

ristina Fontanelli has become an international personality through her recordings and appearances on stage, radio and TV. Her appearances include serving as a PBS-TV host for Andrea Bocelli, Il Volo and Michael Buble. She has appeared on CBS Weekend NY, has won Best Actress in a Comedy from the C.R.I.I.S. Film Festival in 2018 and from the Venus International Film Festival in 2019 for her role in SANTINO, a NIAF/Russo Brothers Production grantee. She is a regular at Feinstein’s/54 Below and has shared stages with Tony Bennett. Other TV appearances include hosting on CBS-TV and starring opposite Kevin James in a CBS promotional special. She has sung title roles with the Palm Beach Opera, and internationally with Hong Kong and Cairo Opera’s. Cristina has been a featured soloist with the Boston Pops and the St. Louis Symphony performing in major concert halls throughout the U.S. and the world, including the Lincoln and Kennedy Centers, Carnegie Hall and Guild Hall. She has been named one of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts most notable alumni and has performed at the White House as part of President Clinton’s holiday celebration. Cristina also opened the 2005 Stars and Stripes Inaugural Ball for President George W. Bush. Cristina has sung at Gracie Mansion at the invitation of Mayor Rudy Giuliani; in Washington, D.C. for the National Italian American Foundation

and the Italian Embassy; at Lincoln Center with stars from the Metropolitan Opera; and at the Waldorf-Astoria for the Columbus Citizens Foundation, honoring Franco Zeffirelli and Maestro Riccardo Muti. She has toured extensively in the Middle East as an “Ambassador of Opera.” As one of the notable soprano voices of her generation, Cristina’s operatic repertoire includes such heroines as Mimi, Musetta, Violetta, and the title roles of “Madame Butterfly” and “Tosca.” She has toured as a solo concert artist in major concert halls throughout Japan, Korea, Italy, Canada, Puerto Rico and the United States. She has received rave reviews for her nightclub entertainment abilities, in addition to her classical concert and operatic appearances. Cristina has recorded numerous CD’s. She is a proud member of the SAG-AFTRA and Equity unions. Her awards include the American Opera Auditions and awards from the Puccini and Koussevitsky Foundations, “Woman of the Year” awards from the Italian Charities of America, the NYC Transit Authority, the NJ Federation of Italian and Italian-American Societies, the Ethnic Press Council of Toronto, the Salerno Club of the State of NY, the International Women’s Network for Service to NY,

the “Entertainer of the Year” Award from the Schnepps Communication Network and the “Lifetime Achievement Award in the Arts” from the Order Sons of Italy in America (previous honoree Luciano Pavarotti). Cristina has been an on-air radio guest on WOR with Joe Piscopo, and on Bloomberg and Sirius Satellite Radio. She is included in the book “The Life and Times of Mickey Rooney” for singing “Happy Birthday” at Mickey’s 90th birthday party. She was signed by a platinum-record winning producer to record “Cristina Fontanelli Sings Great Italian Favorites.” Cristina produces and stars in “Christmas in Italy®” (in its 16th year as of this December) which gives more than 80 children performance opportunities every year. The show’s mission includes raising funds for children’s causes thru The Cristina Fontanelli Foundation. Cristina is currently producing the PBSTV special “Christmas in Italy®” which will be performed December 8, 2019 at Carnegie Hall. She appears annually with Opera & Broadway of the Hamptons and has opened the ceremonies at the Hampton Classic. She sings and entertains in 9 languages. www.cristinafontanelli.com

Lidia Bastianich Felidia: Recipes from My Flagship Restaurant

Beloved chef and best-selling author Lidia Bastianich shares, for the first time, the timeless recipes that have made her flagship restaurant, Felidia, a New York City dining legend for almost four decades. Ever since it opened its doors on Manhattan’s Upper East Side in 1981, Felidia has been revered as one of the best Italian restaurants in the country. In these pages, Lidia and longtime Executive Chef Fortunato Nicotra share 115 of the recipes that capture the spirit of the Felidia menu past and present. From pastas and primi to appetizers and meats, and from breads and spreads to sides and soups, these are some of Lidia’s absolute favorite dishes, lovingly adapted for home cooks to re-create in their own kitchens. Here are recipes for old-school classics such as Pasta Primavera and Linguine with White Clam Sauce and Broccoli. Contemporary favorites include Pear and Pecorino Ravioli, Chicken Pizzaiola, Short Ribs Braised in Barolo, and Eggplant Flan with Tomato Coulis. Exquisite dessert recipes include Warm Nutella Flan, Open Cannolo and Limoncello Tiramisù, while Passion Fruit Spritz and Frozen Peach Bellini come from the restaurant’s lively bar. Felidia is a beautifully illustrated, full-color cookbook that takes readers behind the scenes of the restaurant’s storied history and is filled with the same warmth and hospitality that are the hallmark of all of Lidia’s cookbooks. It’s the next-best thing to enjoying an evening out at this award-winning eatery!

Rose A. Okwany Budget Fitting: Secure Your Future

This book is meant to guide the reader on a journey of discovery through basic definitions and how they apply to the total financial picture. The author believes in the universal application of the principles therein. This is a book to be read and studied over and over for maximum benefit. You will certainly profit from your readings. Managing finances is by far the most important personal activity in daily life. Everyone needs money to live and certainly wants enough to live comfortably now and into the future. This book outlines principles that will guide you to budget fitting so you can secure your financial future.

Brynda Lattimore Mervin The Church Mouse Learns to Pray

The story is about a young mouse named Mervin who is somewhat sheltered because of his age. One day, despite his mom’s warning, he decided to go exploring. The things that he finds in an old church are heartwarming and very inspiring to him, and I hope it will be to all who read the book.

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Susan L. Spahn Never Give Up

This is the true story of 12 year old Billy Spahn, a happy, athletic, energetic kid from Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. Going up to his family’s cottage was always the highlight of his summer. On July 3, 1975, Billy dove into the lake and broke his neck. His family was told he was a quadriplegic and he should be put in a nursing home. His family never accepted that prognosis and they never told Billy that he wouldn’t walk again. This is the story of one child’s strength and determination to retrain his body and get his life back. Bill Spahn became a successful businessman, in addition to having his own fishing show. He retired at the age of 45, a multi-millionaire. This book is a true testament to what can be accomplished with courage, faith, hope and love – and, most importantly, when you… Never Give Up!

Krystal Pasiliao What Made Me Love My Profession

My passion and dedication for nursing are the reasons that made me love my profession and inspired me to write a book. With so many years working in this kind of profession, I have realized it and always feel it deep in my heart that anytime I take care of an individual, I get some sort of emotional connection. It gives me a feeling of satisfaction and happiness as a persona feeling that I am capable of performing and giving my best ability and providing excellent care to anyone. With this growing special attachment in me, it makes me stronger and stronger and better able to deal with so many difficult situations in life. No one deserves to die. We all deserve a second chance. I hope to give my readers an inspirational and learning experience by sharing with them my stories and memories of my many years of experiences as a member of the health profession.

In her most personal and inspiring book yet, New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Somers shows readers how to shape a healthy, lasting relationship through the lens of her 50-year love affair with her husband, Alan Hamel. For the first time, Suzanne will expose the inner workings of her marriage: a winning combination of love, business and family. Starting from the very beginning, when a big-city guy from Toronto met a small-town girl from San Bruno, California, readers will get a behind-the-scenes perspective on Suzanne’s groundbreaking success as a TV star and Las Vegas diva, multiple-bestselling author and successful entrepreneur and businesswoman, along with her more personal life as a mother, partner and ultimately self-fulfilled woman. Through fame, fortune, sickness and blended families, Suzanne and Alan have kept the vitality of their marriage alive— together 24/7 (and haven’t spent a night apart in 37 years) and combining business savvy in their constantly evolving relationship. Now, Suzanne reveals hard-won advice on how to rely on another person without sacrificing individual strengths. In this mixture of love story, memoir, and practical guide, readers, too, will discover how to forge and maintain a true partnership that’s built to last.

Sally F. Jackson You Are What You Eat: Human Body Function in Relation to Food

Beverly Harvey Landing An Executive Position: Proven Job Strategies That Win Offers

Today’s executive job market is fiercely competitive, and executives must market their value to organizations using a diverse range of channels and tactics. In the second edition of this powerful book, executive career expert Beverly Harvey gives you a simple, proven, step-by-step approach to: recognizing why the job-search strategy you used five years ago doesn’t work in today’s market; creating a job-search strategy based on your unique aspirations; identifying your personal brand and value proposition; launching an effective job-search campaign; understanding and pursuing the hidden job market; designing a strategy to leverage your network; building an online presence that attracts the right recruiters and decision-makers; preparing responses to tough interview questions; planning for persuasive compensation negotiations; and getting off to a roaring start in your new position.

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Suzanne Somers Two’s Company: A Fifty-Year Romance with Lessons Learned in Love, Life & Business

Fran Drescher Cancer Schmancer

Part inspirational cancer-survival story, part memoir and part laugh-riot, this book picks up where Fran’s last book left off. With her trademark humor, Fran tells of her search for answers and the cancer diagnosis that she ultimately beat. It offers a goldmine of humorous insights and shows what really matters most in life.

Through your parent’s influence, you learned the importance of eating balanced meals and drinking plenty of water. But classes on basic body function in relation to food never existed, so you grasped little about your body functions in relation to true nutrition. In this self-teaching book you will learn the basics of body function in relation to food and what your body can and can’t do with the foods you eat - all using basic and easy-to-implement concepts. You will understand exactly how your body works and how to make dietary changes to improve your overall health and prevent or eliminate a variety of diseases. Nutrition is not calorie counting, chemical reactions, or metabolism, but is proper and effective body function as a result of what you eat. Proactive health education has based this self-teaching book on research gathered from independent scientists and respected researchers from around the world. You are the sum of everything you eat, including food, water and exercise. Your body knows exactly what it needs, learn how to listen, and obtain a happier, longer, healthier life.

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Cancer Assistance

PHONE NUMBERS, WEBSITES AND HELPFUL INFORMATION GENERAL INFORMATION The Komen Breast Care Helpline 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) www.komen.org Provides information, general and financial assistance to women who meet eligibility criteria. American Cancer Society 800.227.2345 cancer.org Funds and conducts research, shares expert information, supports patients, and spreads the word about prevention. Provides information regarding all aspects of cancer research. Patient Advocate Foundation - National Underinsured Resource Directory 800-532-5274 www.patientadvocate.org Find local, state and national resources for people who have insurance but may struggle to pay out-of-pocket costs of care. Offers financial assistance information, legal and advocacy help if an insurance claim is denied. National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp Provides access to clinical breast exams and mammograms (plus diagnostic testing if results are abnormal, and referrals to treatment if breast cancer is diagnosed) to women ages 40-64 who do not have health insurance or are under-insured. The Pink Fund 877.234.PINK (7465) www.pinkfund.org/get-help Offers financial assistance for health insurance premiums. Provides 90-day non-medical cost-ofliving expenses to breast cancer patients in active treatment for breast cancer, so they can focus on healing, raising their families, and returning to the workplace. Sisters Network Inc. 713.781.0255 | 866.781.1808 www.sistersnetworkinc.org/programs.html Offers financial assistance for breast prosthesis, medical bras and compression arm sleeves. Committed to increasing local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African American community. Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (U.S. Department of Labor) 1-866-4-USA-DOL (1-866-487-2365) www.dol.gov/ Provides information on federal laws requiring insurance coverage of breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Gilda’s Club NYC 212-647-9700 gildasclubnyc.org Gilda’s Club New York City creates welcoming communities of free emotional and social support for everyone living with cancer – women, men, teens, children and their families. The program is an essential complement to cancer care, providing support groups, educational lectures, healthy lifestyle workshops and social activities.

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Breast Cancer Freebies breastcancerfreebies.com Offers information and links to receive free wigs, hats, makeup, house cleaning, transportation and other services and products. Amazing, and extremely helpful website with links to 20+ free services.

PRESCRIPTION DRUG ASSISTANCE The Assistance Fund - Breast Cancer Copay Assistance Program (855) 730-5871 tafcares.org/program-listing/ Offers financial assistance for prescription drug co-payments. This website also offers assistance for a variety of diseases. CancerCare – Co-payment Assistance Foundation 866-55-COPAY (866-552-6729) www.cancercarecopay.org Offers health insurance co-payment assistance for chemotherapy and targeted therapy drugs. NeedyMeds.com (800) 503-6897 www.needymeds.org/pap Offers information on drug company assistance programs. Patient Advocate Foundation – Co-Pay Relief Program 866-512-3861 www.copays.org Offers financial assistance for prescription drug co-payments. Partnership for Prescription Assistance 888-4PPA-NOW (888-477-2669) www.pparx.org Offers low-cost and free prescription drug programs for those with limited income. Strings for a Cure www.stringsforacure.org/SFAC-Programs/ info@StringsforaCURE.org Offers financial assistance for prescription drugs co-payments.

TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE American Cancer Society – Road to Recovery 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) www.cancer.org Offers local transportation to and from cancer treatments. Grind For Life 561-252-3939 www.grindforlife.org Providing financial assistance to cancer patients and their families when traveling long distances to doctors and hospitals. Those who qualify may request assistance for travel and lodging expenses, meals, and personal needs. CancerCare – AVONCares 800-813-HOPE (800-813-4673) www.cancercare.org/financial/information Offers financial assistance for transportation to and

from cancer treatments. The Catherine H. Tuck Foundation www.catherinefund.org Offers financial assistance for transportation to and from cancer treatments. The National Aging & Disability Transportation Center 866-983-3222 www.nadtc.org Promotes the availability and accessibility of transportation options for older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers. Komen Treatment Assistance Program 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) www.komen.org Offers financial assistance for transportation to and from cancer treatments. *Many local churches will offer transportation assistance in medical matters.

LONG-DISTANCE TRANSPORTATION Air Charity Network 877-621-7177 www.aircharitynetwork.org Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. Corporate Angel Network 866-328-1313 www.corpangelnetwork.org Uses empty seats on corporate planes to help cancer patients reach treatment centers. (Travel for caregivers is not covered.) Lifeline Pilots 800-822-7972 www.lifelinepilots.org Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. Mercy Medical Airlift 800-296-1217 www.mercymedical.org Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. National Patient Travel Center 800-296-1217 www.patienttravel.org Offers free or discounted air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers.

LODGING ASSISTANCE American Cancer Society – Hope Lodge and Hotel Lodging 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) www.cancer.org/treatment/supportprograms-and-services/patient-lodging.html Offers lodging for families during cancer treatment. Healthcare Hospitality Network 800-542-9730 www.hhnetwork.org Nationwide professional association of nearly 200 unique, nonprofit organizations that provide lodging and support services to patients, families and their loved ones who are receiving medical treatment far from their home communities.

Joe’s House 877-563-7468 www.joeshouse.org/Lodging.aspx Find an online directory of free and discounted lodging for cancer patients and their families.

FINANCIAL SERVICES/PERSONAL EXPENSE ASSISTANCE

Low-cost and Free Mammograms Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance companies cover the cost of mammograms. National Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp/ Provides access to breast cancer screening to low-income, uninsured and underinsured women. Planned Parenthood 1-800-230-PLAN www.plannedparenthood.org Offers clinical breast exams and referrals for mammography (and any follow-up testing, such as breast ultrasound). Counseling 800813HOPE (4673) or info@cancercare.org. Oncology social workers are available to help you cope with the emotional challenges of breast cancer. Healing Odyssey (949) 707-1710 connect@healingodyssey.net Nonprofit organization providing support and educational programs for women cancer survivors and their support team.

RETREATS AND RECREATION Casting for Recovery 888-553-3500 castingforrecovery.org Offers free flyfishing weekends in 33 states for female breast cancer survivors. Stowe Weekend of Hope 800-GO-STOWE (800-467-8693) www.stowehope.org Provides a three-day gathering held each spring in the resort town of Stowe, Vermont, for both male and female cancer survivors and their families including free accommodations for first-time guests and most events are free. Activities include educational sessions with top doctors presenting current medical research in all areas of cancer treatments, workshops by cancer type, movement and exercise classes, a 3-mile run and more. Little Pink Houses 336-213-4733 www.littlepink.org Provides free week-long beach retreats for breast cancer patients and their immediate families in private homes in 14 locations around the U.S. Meals are served in a common area with other families. Activities include fishing, yoga and parasailing. Babysitting is provided so parents can have a date night. Swim With the Dolphins 1-866-860-7946 www.dolphinsplus.com/dolphin-swimprograms/omas-dolphin-swim Dolphins Plus in Key Largo, FL, offers a free swim with the dolphins, hands-on session for cancer patients and survivors. To make arrangements and get medical clearance forms to participate, contact info@dolphinsplus.com.

Do it For the Love Foundation 844-484-3561 www.doitforthelove.org Wish-granting organization that brings people with life-threatening illnesses to live concerts for free to have a one-on-one experience with their favorite artists and enjoy the healing power of their music. If you have Stage IV breast cancer, contact them. Helpline 877-465-6636 The Susan G. Komen Foundation offers a specialized breast care helpline. American Cancer Society 800-227-2345 (24 hour hotline) The ACS offers programs that help individuals, families, and friends cope with the treatment decisions and emotional challenges they face. Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation 877-880-TNBC (877-880-8622) Assists and supports women with triple-negative breast cancer.

CLEANING Cleaning For A Reason (877) 337-3348 cleaningforareason.org Email: info@cleaningforareason.org Offers cleaning services for those undergoing treatment. Early Detection National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp/ The NBCCEDP funds all 50 states for early detection of breast cancer.

WIGS AND HEAD COVERINGS/ PRODUCTS American Cancer Society 1-800-ACS-2345 www.cancer.org To receive a new free wig or donate new wigs with tags attached for those who cannot afford a wig. Reduced Price Wigs 1-800-850-9445 www.tlcdirect.org For wigs at a reduced price, the America Cancer Society endorses www.tlcdirect.org. They offer a full array of wigs, headwear products, mastectomy products, cancer support jewelry and other goods. Head Wraps and Scarves/ Good Wishes Scarves (888) 778-5998 www.goodwishesscarves.org Provides a scarf to anyone experiencing the thinning or loss of hair as a result of illness or treatment at no cost. Each scarf is a gift of hope that carries with it the support and good wishes of people who care and represents the strength and dignity of those who wear it. Heavenly Hats 920-362-2668 heavenlyhats.org anthony@heavenlyhats.com Offers free hats for people who are facing hair loss due to cancer and other medical conditions.

Totes The Lydia Project 1-877-593-4212 | (706) 736-5467 www.thelydiaproject.org Offers free totes for women going through any kind of cancer treatment. The totes come filled with an inspirational journal, lotion, and other items. For women who are interested, a year of ongoing support is available in which you can share prayer requests, and request notes, phone calls, and emails. All4OneBreast Form Fund (508) 630-2242 cancer1source.org The fund will help pay for prosthetics and other post-mastectomy garments for women with financial need. Nordstrom Prosthesis Program 1.888.282.6060 shop.nordstrom.com/content/breastprosthesis-program This program is offered free in the lingerie department of 116 full line Nordstrom stores in 29 states. Certified prosthesis fitters are specially trained to fit women for any type of intimate apparel following a mastectomy, lumpectomy or other reconstructive surgery. They will also sew pockets for breast forms into regular bras, camisoles and swimwear you’ve purchased at the store, free of charge.

NETWORKING/ GENERAL SUPPORT/ OTHER FORMS OF CANCER Cancer Hope Network 877-HOPENET (877-467-3538) www.cancerhopenetwork.org Provides free one-on-one emotional support to adult cancer patients and their loved ones. Livestrong.org International organization that provides a variety of support services. 855.220.7777 or 877.236.8820 livestrong.org To make a donation call 1-844-GIVE 2 LS Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation 800-366-2223 (800-366-CCCF) candlelightersnyc.org info@candlelightersnyc.org Nonprofit organization that provides information, peer support, information regarding financial assistance and advocacy through publications and a network of local support groups. Leukemia and Lymphoma Society 800-955-4572 www.lls.org Offers information and financial aid to people who have leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, or multiple myeloma. Veteran Administration 877-222-8387 (877-222-VETS) www.va.gov Offers medical benefits, including cancer treatment at a VA Medical Cancer, to eligible veterans and their dependents.

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Jolene Wahl

n 2014 I had uterine cancer and beat it. In October 2018 I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer (there are fewer treatment options and it’s more likely to spread and reoccur than other types of cancer). I was terrified. The hardest parts were not being able to control the fear that came with being diagnosed, the unknown and waiting for doctor’s appointments and answers. All I could think was: How was treatment going to affect me? Will I survive or will I die? How will my children handle this? This was a scary time to say the least. I am fortunate to have family and friends who love and support me- some with firsthand experience and others who held my hand and spoke positively about my strength and how I would beat breast cancer.

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! e v i v r Su

Maria Culhane

ike most women, I dreaded and feared my annual mammograms. Because I had dense breasts, I dreaded the sonograms too. I had been through several biopsies over the previous years and cried with relief whenever I heard the word “benign.” In July 2013, the technician told me that the doctor needed a few more pictures after my mammogram. Later that week I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After consultations with three breast surgeons, they all agreed “the left one had to go.” For me there was no hesita-

Cat Stephenson

After a double mastectomy and chemo treatment, I was diagnosed with a reoccurrence of cancer in the original biopsy site. The next step is radiation. I still have some bad days but with God and prayer I know I can handle this. Staying positive and leaning on those who love and support you is the way to travel this road. My advice to any going through something similar is to make necessary changes in diet and exercise. Continue to work if possible. Play hard as life is for the living. Even if you don’t feel well inside, make the effort to look good on the outside. When you look good, you feel good.

tion. I wanted them both off asap. In August 2013 I had a double mastectomy. The surgery went very well, and I was extremely lucky. They got all the cancer out. It was contained and my lymph nodes were clear. Because the tumors were small and they caught them early, no further treatment was needed. I was not a candidate for hormone therapy. The experience truly changed my life and I believe made me a better person. The love and kindness of my husband, son, sister and family and friends was overwhelming and beyond belief. Every

t is a beautiful Saturday morning, and there’s not a cloud in the sky. I am at a high school football game taking it all in. I am also thinking about the fact that next week will be my last chemotherapy treatment for triple negative breast cancer. It has been five months since I have been in treatment. My hair is gone, I am bloated from the medicine, my feet and hands have very little feeling and yet I am happier than I have been in a very long time. How is that even possible? Can you really find happiness after being diagnosed with CANCER? My answer is an emphatic “Yes!” As scary as cancer can be, I have found

day I try to give something back for all their love and support. It helped heal me both physically and emotionally and I am forever grateful. I thank God every day for all life’s gifts and I pray for continued good health and for the good health of all my dear family and friends.

that it has brought more positive than negative into my life. My priorities are few, my friends are many, my want list has decreased significantly and I am free from prioritizing all that “stuff.” As a working mother of three children there was a lot of “stuff” that was always consuming me. Since my cancer diagnosis, that has been removed from my life. It is almost as if with each loss I have had due to cancer I have gained a gift. Each day I find a new silver lining that has come from my diagnosis. Perhaps it is because I have slowed down enough to recognize it or maybe it is just how I am choosing to view it.

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Hair We Share is based on Long Island, New York by Suzanne Chimera and Dean Riskin. With over 50 years experience, we are a second generation, family owned custom wig design business. We founded Hair We Share in 2014, after years of working with all types of hair loss including chemotherapy, alopecia, head trauma, accident and burn victims. The wigs we provide can have a retail value of up to $3,000.00.

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We started with one teenage girl named Brooke who was severely depressed because of her hair loss. Brooke’s mom called us after Brooke’s face lit up for the first time in years, upon seeing a wig we designed on 20/20. We knew the cost of the wig would be a burden on Brooke’s young family, so we put a post on Facebook asking people to send us their hair and decrease the cost of the wig. Within one week of the post 42 people chopped off their hair and sent it to us. As people sent their hair, we found we had created a sense of community for the hair donors and for Brooke. We created our Ponytail Tracking program to help cover our expenses and keep this community growing.

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P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 85

Kara Goldin Entrepreneur Founder and CEO Hint, Inc.

ara Goldin is the founder and CEO of Hint, Inc., a healthy lifestyle brand best known for its flagship product, Hint water, unsweetened flavored water. After deciding to give up diet soda as a means of losing weight and make some positive lifestyle changes, Kara decided to drink only water. However, due to how bland water was, she felt that it wouldn’t be a long-term solution, so she started experimenting at home. She began cutting up fruit and adding it to her water, boiling fruit skin and adding the oils to water and experimenting until she found a solution that she and her family loved. Eventually, friends and family began asking her to make the fruit flavored water for them and Kara realized that she had found her future. The company was born with a simple idea: to make water that tastes great. In 2017, Kara introduced Hint sunscreen, a SPF 30 sunscreen mist that’s enhanced with the same essences used in Hint water. Once again, she created the product to solve a personal problem after having several run-ins with precancerous cells on her nose. Kara and the Hint team are dedicated to helping people live healthier lives, easily. With water and sunscreen, there’s no telling what’s next.

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

Photo: Robert Meares

What inspired you to create Hint water? Prior to Hint, I was helping to build a $1 billion e-commerce business for AOL. I took a break to start my family. I was taking a moment to decide my next move and I wasn’t feeling 100%. I had gained weight, my skin was breaking out and I was sluggish. I realized I had a serious diet soda habit and looked at the label one day and decided it was time to pay attention to what was going in my body. I thought because it said “diet” it was healthy for me—and was I wrong! There were all kinds of ingredients I didn’t recognize, so I decided to give it up. I tried plain water, but I found it boring…the rest is Hint history. I started slicing up fruit and putting it in water. Then I tried boiling the essences out of the fruits and infusing them into the water. My water started quickly disappearing from the refrigerator; the whole family loved it. My friends started calling asking about the fruit water their kids had at my house and asking where they could get it. After a few months, I lost weight, my skin cleared up and my energy level really improved. When I realized there was nothing like it on the grocery store shelves, I decided to make it myself. I was totally inspired to create something that helped people lead healthier lives: simple

water with flavor but no sugar, no diet sweeteners, no sodium, no color, and no calories. I delivered the first 10 cases of Hint to Whole Foods on the way to deliver my fourth child (It sold out overnight and I had a boy). Do you use environmentally conscious, non-GMO ingredients in your products? Yes, all our ingredients are nonGMO certified. We are committed to the environment in general. Hint’s bottles are BPA-free and 100% recyclable. We are continuously working to reduce the amount of plastic and other non-renewable resources we use throughout the business. In fact, this year we’ve reduced the plastic in our bottles by 40%, while maintaining our high-quality appearance and performance. Did you ever imagine that Hint Water and Hint Sparkling would be as successful as they are? I’m a believer that when your brand is driven with passion and purpose, the odds are that it will be successful. If there is an authentic story behind your brand, one that people can relate to, embrace and integrate into their own lexicon, then it has a really good chance of taking off! When I started Hint, the mission was to empower people to lead healthier lives. Hint helps people fall in love with water and as the years pass, more and more people are going for our healthier option because they don’t have to compromise on enjoyment, or in this case, taste. Tell us about the Kara Network and your podcast “Unstoppable.” The Kara Network is a digital resource and mentoring platform for

entrepreneurs where we share insights and inspiration on a myriad of topics from simple observations to more complex issues. “Unstoppable” is a dynamic podcast where I interview founders, entrepreneurs and disruptors across various industries. We have a lot of fun, and sometimes we even share secrets out loud. What advice can you give to other entrepreneurs who are looking to create and launch a product? If you’re planning to create and launch a product, be sure that it solves a problem, that there’s something about it that makes it unlike everything out there already. You also want to be passionate about your new business, because even if it’s a runaway success, it’s going to take a lot of hard work. You want to think about how much career stability you need, and you have to be ready to live on the edge for a while. With the addition of Hint Sunscreen, what other products do you have on the horizon to add to the Hint line? This summer, we launched Hint Sunsticks, easy to toss in your tote or take anywhere with SPF 30 and water-resistant coverage for 80 minutes. Like our cult favorite mists SPF 30, the new Hint® sunsticks, in grapefruit and pineapple, are free of oxybenzone and parabens and deliciously scented with hint’s proprietary fruit essences. At this point, I really consider myself a consumer advocate, and I am always looking at ways to make everyday products healthier without taking away the enjoyment factor. Next up may be deodorant without aluminum and after that…the pos-

sibilities are endless, but everything we do will work toward achieving a healthier lifestyle. How do you manage to find balance between your personal and professional life? I don’t think there is such a thing as work/life balance for anyone. There’s work and there’s life. You do the best at everything you are doing and hopefully one makes you better at the other. I’m very lucky to have a super supportive family, a husband who is actually my partner at Hint, and four children who are now old enough to have worked with us in some way or another. I think loving what you do for a living makes you better at everything you do, including being a wife and mother. Living a healthy lifestyle without compromising on enjoyment balances me. It’s drinking Hint rather than soda, hiking in the morning and SoulCycle sometimes. I also need to take breaks now and then and check out with family a couple times a year. We usually do a big trip somewhere that has adventure, culture and ideally some serious down time. In general, I rarely miss an event for the kids and I rarely miss a milestone for the company. In some ways, I think of the Hint staff as part of my extended family so when something seminal happens I like to be there to celebrate or to troubleshoot if necessary. What does the word empowerment mean to you? It means taking control of your own destiny and helping others find their voice and make their own magic as well. www.drinkhint.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 87