P.O.W.E.R. Magazine Summer 2021

2021 SUMMER ISSUE

Cook Like a Rock Star with

Anne Burrell Meet our POWER Couple: Realtors

Jennifer and Jason Gibson Get Stretching with Expert Franchisor

Kika Wise

Improving Global Skin Health with

Celeste Hilling

Shop HQ Jewelry Designer and Entrepreneur

Victoria Wieck

Helps Turn Your Dreams into Reality

Elisa DiStefano, a Powerful Voice in New York Media

Health Inspired Beauty PROTEIN POWER

MINERAL ACTIVE ENVIRO DEFENSE

Patented SGF-4 Technology™ uses four specialized growth factor proteins for immediately visual lift and volume while replenishing cell strength and essential nutrients for healthy skin renewal.

SkinSuit™ is a ground-breaking new category of environmental protection that inhibits and quenches damage caused by sun/uv, digital screens, electronic devices, pollution, and heat for flawless skin texture.

Sheer formulation corrects imperfections on all skin tones and types.

TOPICAL SUPERFOODS Beauty Infusion™ targets proprietary superfood extracts and probiotics balance macrobiota and allow you to dial up the level of nourishment, hydration, brightening, or clarifying your skin needs to meet the changing conditions of each day.

MEANINGFUL MASKING Clean actives redefine sheet masks and move them into the performance category. Instant brightening, pore minimizing, and hydration results from a no slip, no drip, bio-degradable sheet.

FEAR FREE PEEL™ Our anti-inflammatory AHA and retinol exfoliators deliver “peel” results without harsh peeling, irritation, or redness. Gentle enough for the most sensitive skin or color tone to use every day.

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Celeste Hilling

CEO Skin Authority

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ith more than 20 years’ experience in beauty and well-being, Celeste Hilling is a recognized media expert on healthy lifestyle, skin care science, and technology trends. Celeste shares her passion for improving global skin health as a public speaker and expert resource for top outlets including “The Doctors,” MSNBC, and The New York Times.

She also hosts the Beauty Workout segment on Fox 5 and Beauty Workout Channel on YouTube.

With an uncommon technology leadership background, Celeste was among the first female Fortune 25 Officers as vice president of Compaq Computer Consumer Division Worldwide. Celeste leverages her technology and research background in the development of Skin Authority proprietary SGF-4 Technology™ and VitaD Fortified™ formulation design.

MSNBC spotlighted her as “giving the beauty industry a makeover” by introducing the first human interactive retail displays and mobile apps for virtual, personalized skin care coaching.

Based in Southern California, Celeste has a sincere passion for philanthropy focused on underserved families and children, which inspired the Skin Authority Touch Transforms Foundation. She serves as chairman of the board of the San Diego New Children’s Museum, past co-chair and honorary member of the advisory board of Scripps Memorial Hospital of La Jolla, California, and a founding board member of Doctors Offering Charitable Services. In 2017, Celeste was honored by San Diego Magazine Woman of the Year Awards, in addition to previous awards for “Women Who Move the City” by San Diego Magazine, and “Women Who Mean Business” by San Diego Business Journal.

Described by San Diego Magazine as giving the cosmetics industry a makeover, Celeste is an innovative,

dynamic, and respected expert on skin care, wellbeing, and brand loyalty. As CEO of Skin Authority, she works with celebrities, fashion icons, beauty editors, and consumers worldwide to instill a passion for the company’s products and unique approach to the ultimate customer service experience.

As a highly sought speaker on beauty, health, and self-esteem, Celeste presents hundreds of times per year around the world. A well-respected media resource, she has been quoted by leading outlets including FOX News, NBC, ABC, The New York Times, Women’s Wear Daily, Forbes, and BusinessWeek.

With a vision to build a modern skin care brand that delivers products that are relevant to the needs of today’s consumers, Celeste challenges Skin Authority to continually integrate the most advanced ingredients and techniques in its products, and to deliver a unique 360-degree customer service experience using integrated technology to reach consumers cost-effectively wherever and however they prefer to be contacted. “Healthy skin is beautiful, so it is important to me that our products produce not only dramatic cosmetic results, but also boost and defend the immune strength of our

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body’s largest organ.” She reflects this passion in the company’s decision to eliminate added fragrances, dyes, and parabens from its products. Celeste personally oversaw the launch of its grounding breaking SGF-4 Technology™ products designed around four natural nourishing proteins or skin growth factors, developed specifically to target and reprogram the aging process of skin cells.

Working with world recognized leader the Dole Nutrition Institute, Celeste also led the charge for making skin care an extension of good nutrition by introducing the first whole food source of Vitamin D in the VitaD Fortified™ series from Skin Authority. Her vision is to turn today’s passive skin care shopping experience into a high touch, high impact, personalized experience. Because of this, she handpicks Skin Authority distribution partners from among the most prestigious retail and spa locations.

Prior to launching Skin Authority, Celeste was key in developing two companies that were acquired by the leading publicly held company in its industry segment. In both instances, she was a strategic officer, for Steiner Leisure Ltd., as president/CEO of the Day Spa Group, and Compaq Computer Corporation as president, Consumer Software Business Unit and vice president, Consumer Division. In addition to being a busy executive, mom, and spokesperson, Celeste also makes time to give back to her community.

What made you change from a career in technology to skincare?

Through my own personal health journey, I learned the vital importance of vitamin D sufficiency. In researching and understanding the critical role skin plays in strengthening our complete immune defense, I felt called to use that knowledge to develop products which boosted our skin immunity while making us more cosmetically beautiful.

Please explain what an interactive retail display is and how this helps consumers?

We patented a two-way video technology which allows a live skin professional to look at your skin (no robots here!), consult with you to identify the customized solutions which are best for your skin goals, help you pick those items off the shelf at retail locations, and deliver them to your home. Those skin coaches remain available to you virtually to help guide you at home on an ongoing basis at no charge.

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Tell us about your latest Skin Authority line SkinSuit.

SkinSuit is the first of its kind. It is a complete environmental skin protector which doubles as a beautiful, silky primer on all skin colors and types.

Think of it like a “topical spacesuit” protecting your skin from the rays coming from the sun, blue light from your phones and devices, as well as damaging pollution and heat. It is 100% mineral free, reef safe, with no added fragrances, dyes, or parabens.

How did the Skin Authority Touch Transforms Foundation come about?

We believe in the power of the 1-1 human connection in healing and bringing us together as a community. This is why we built our business around skin coaching connections.

Through Touch Transforms, we are able to give back by supporting organizations who transform people’s lives through touch. For example, we support Look Good, Feel Better, which supports cancer patients with free hair, makeup, and skin services to help them

deal with the physical side effects of their treatment programs. We also provide skin care and clothing to prepare young adults leaving the foster program for job interviews and college activities, among many others.

As an entrepreneur, what is one piece of advice you would give to young women looking to start a business?

It is okay to be vulnerable and ask for help or advice. Seek out strong mentors and surround yourself with people you can learn from. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just put one foot in front of the other and keep moving forward toward your goal.

What does the word power mean to you?

I think power is the ability to make a difference by channeling your energy there. It sometimes means sharing your influence with others or on the behalf of others. Every women’s superpower is believing in herself even when she isn’t sure anyone else does. www.skinauthority.com

Entrepreneur, Real Estate Mogul Infinity Properties Group

Annetta Powell S ince 2001, Annetta Powell has purchased, renovated, and sold more than 600 properties totaling $50 million dollars in real estate sales. She has maintained a steady flow of success through her real estate empire, Infinity Properties Group. After graduating from the University of Phoenix in 2002, she realized that she would never become a millionaire working for someone else. She took control of her financial future, purchased a house for $18K, renovated it, and sold it for a profit of $24K. She published her first book, “Finding, Fixing & Flipping Properties,” in 2007 and began sharing the secrets of her success through real estate training seminars.

In September of 2008, Annetta was investigated for real estate fraud and was indicted in 2011 for real estate fraud for assisting buyers with down payment money to purchase investment properties. In 2014, she was sentenced, and served 15 months in prison. After being released in 2016, she published another book in 2018 sharing her story called “Indicted to Ignited.” While dealing with these legal problems, the bottom fell out of the housing market. Annetta had purchased a number of homes and was unable to sell them due to the market crash. Due to these circumstances, she went broke.

The recession taught Annetta that she needed to have multiple streams of income if she wanted true financial security. As a result, she diversified her income to

How did you overcome the obstacles you faced to become the success you are today?

I learned early on that no one was going to come and save me. If I wanted more, be it wealth, health, or from my relationships, the only person that could make it happen was me.

What influenced you to go into the real estate industry?

Growing up, I always loved looking at houses. A home is an extension of you. So it was natural that I gravitated towards real estate.

Why is it so important to build wealth through multiple streams of income?

include rentals which bring passive monthly income in monthly. She also owns five tax franchises known as the Tax Expert Stores, and a party bus luxury limousine company known as Blitz Luxury Rental.

Annetta gives back to the community through the Abram Powell Foundation, a nonprofit 501c3 which provides support and resources to the hearing impaired and deaf community. She has also been featured in Black Enterprise, Sheen, and Entrepreneur.

No one knows what the future holds. Simply relying on one source of income is risky. If you only have one basket filled with eggs and you drop the entire basket, how many eggs do you have left?

What is The Wealth Connect?

The Wealth Connect teaches individuals how to master entrepreneurship and how to build long lasting wealth through multiple streams of income.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

The world is an abundant place. Set your goals and go at them night and day. There’s nothing you can’t do with the right mindset and level of action.

Tell us about your nonprofit, the Abram Powell Foundation.

Having a father who was unable to speak or hear, I saw firsthand the challenges that plague the deaf community. We organize special events for the deaf community to help them socialize, have fun, and enjoy a greater quality of life.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power means having the ability to wake up and do as you see fit. It is the ability to keep your loved ones out of harm’s way and pave a path that’s even brighter for future generations. annettapowell.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 5

Table

OF CONTENTS

Cover Story

Victoria Wieck grew up in a sleepy coastal village in South Korea, but achieved the American Dream when her family moved to America.

Discover this jewelry designer’s amazing journey.

Recipes by

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Killer turkey burgers, Tagliatelle with corn and cherry tomatoes, Taleggio grilled cheese with bacon and honey crisp apples, Kale Caesar salad and Grilled brocolli rabe 6 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Tonia’s Talk

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With the COVID pandemic easing in the United States and legislators opening things up again, it is the perfect time to take a fresh look at our careers and businesses, and decide where to go from here.

Regular Features P.O.W.E.R. 30 Publicity P.O.W.E.R. VIP List

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Book Corner

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Empowered Women’s List

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Women EmP.O.W.E.R.ing Women

Power Couple of the Year

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Lifetime Achievement Award Women of Distinction Women of the Month

Women of P.O.W.E.R.

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Elisa DiStefano

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18 19 60 Isabel 23 Dominguez de Haro

What makes must-see TV? Combining cuisine, celebrities, and of course, attractive women.

That’s what Dining Divas is all about...

Kika Wise

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PRESIDENT AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tonia DeCosimo VICE PRESIDENT Nicole Crumb 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 EVENT ADVISOR Ulrika Nilsson CONTROLLER Maureen Meagher ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Shari Brozinsky Anna Rose Cameron Denise Forte Helene Kaye Sari Meyer Erica Nelson Susan Russo 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 other’s opinions or views as expressed herein. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine does not discriminate based upon race, religion, and political views. P.O.W.E.R. magazine does not assume any responsibility for unsolicited materials. Advertisements do not constitute an endorsement of the product or services by P.O.W.E.R. Magazine. Copyright 2021 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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ith the COVID pandemic easing in the United States and legislators opening things up again, it is the perfect time to take a fresh look at our careers and businesses, and decide where to go from here. This issue of P.O.W.E.R. Magazine is the perfect summer read about these amazing women who are powerful, innovative, and making great strides in their careers.

Cover girl Victoria Wieck is the definition of success and offers great advice to help us all. She followed her heart instead of the money and today is a successful jewelry designer with her own TV show on Shop HQ, connecting with millions of viewers regularly. She is currently writing a how-to book, “Million Dollar Hobbies, How to Turn your Idea into a Multi-million Dollar Business,” which is scheduled to be released in 2022. Victoria has also started her Million Dollar Hobbies podcast to help others turn their passion into profits.

Kika Wise is one of the country’s few African American franchisors and the nation’s youngest female franchisor. She is building a fitness empire with Kika Stretch Studios. She has been running her own business for over a decade and is dedicated to helping other African Americans become entrepreneurs and learn the business and art of franchising. Kika was even able to pivot her business this year and find success by opening another location in the midst of the global health pandemic.

Our POWER Couple, Jennifer and Jason Gibson are entrepreneurs and real estate agents with Waterfront Realty group. Both Jennifer and Jason are business owners and have worked together for over 30 years, being married for 27 of those years. They list much of their success to focusing on each of their strengths.

Their professional partnership ensures that

Talk

TONIA’S

personalized experience. Celeste Hilling is an amazing example of someone who has utilized her knowledge of one field to create and enhance a new one.

Elisa DiStefano is an award winning News 12 reporter, a top entertainment reporter and feature anchor, and a published author. She has become a powerful voice in New York media having interviewed top celebrities. In addition, Elisa and her husband, Mo Cassara, spend their free time running their two restaurants, both based on Long Island. Elisa explains how she started early, reporting and making videos for as long as she can remember. She was a part of her high school’s news program which aired in the cafeteria. Elisa explains how she never took “no” for an answer and kept working hard to achieve her goals.

their clients have the best two people for the job in one package. They also are not afraid to expand their business interests and are the owners of Rita’s Italian Ice in Naples, Florida, and the couple is the awarded operators of Lowdermilk Beach, which is one of the best beaches in Naples. Their strategies in running On a summer weekend, let’s sit back in our a successful business and keeping both their working relationship and marriage thriving are lounge chairs and read about these women and what they have accomplished and are pearls of wisdom. continuing to achieve. Featuring women in Celeste Hilling is a recall industries and professions in different stages ognized media expert on of their careers will give us new ideas and inhealthy lifestyle, skin care spire us to take the steps to grow our businessscience, and technology es and perhaps create some new ventures. trends and is CEO of Skin Also take a look at our P.O.W.E.R. Blog on Authority. With an uncompowerwoe.com for June about “5 Key Stratemon technology leadership gies to Help Grow your Business.” The future is background, Celeste was among the first festarting to look brighter already! male Fortune 25 Officers as vice president of Remember, we are all women of P.O.W.E.R. Compaq Computer Consumer Division Worldwide. Celeste has taken her knowledge of technology and research and has utilized it in the development of her beauty skin care line and by introducing the first human interactive retail displays and mobile apps for virtual, PRESIDENT AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF personalized skin care coaching. Her vision @Toniadecosimo is to turn today’s passive skin care shopping @power_woe experience into a high touch, high impact, P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 9

Tonia DeCosimo

ELISA DISTEFANO Features Reporter/Anchor, Entertainment Host, Entrepreneur

Photos by Bowen Media

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lisa DiStefano is an award winning News 12 reporter with a social media following of over 125K. As the top entertainment reporter and feature anchor, she shares news and traffic reports each morning, produces her own food and fashion segments, and is known by locals for her weekly adopt-a-pet segments featuring rescues from local shelters. Covering everything from fashion week to A-list movie premieres, Elisa is one of the most powerful voices in New York media, having interviewed celebrities like Justin Bieber, Brad Pitt, and Amy Schumer.

A philanthropist at heart, Elisa lends her time and talent to local and national charities including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Long Island Cares. She received a Humanitarian of the Year award from The American Cancer Society, a New York Press Club Award: Entertainment News/TV, and was named Best of Long Island, “TV News Reporter” for multiple years. Elisa was recognized as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Business and with a prestigious 40 Under 40 Award.

Elisa is a frequent contributor to publications like Entertainment Weekly, Newsday, Luxury Living Magazine, amNewYork and more.

A published author, she co-wrote “The Bridal Body: Your Workout Workbook and Recipes for Success,” a fitness and nutrition guide helping brides get in shape for their big day.

A graduate of Boston University College of Communication, Elisa and her husband, Mo Cassara (CBS Sports & ESPN college basketball analyst), spend their free time running their two restaurants, MO’NELISA, and The Point Bar & Grill, both based on Long Island. They share their home by the beach with their two children, Christian and Elle.

How were you able to break into the competitive world of television news as a news anchor?

I started early. I’ve been reporting and making videos for as long as I can remember. I was a part of my high school’s news program which aired in the cafeteria. I did multiple internships in college and sent my reel out to newsrooms all over the country – I got some great feedback and many rejections. I didn’t take “no” for an answer and continued to work so that I could pay for coaching to improve my skill set. I worked for free to gain experience. Eventually, someone took a chance on me.

What techniques are important when interviewing celebrity entertainers on the red carpet and who has been your favorite interview?

Do your homework by preparing for the interview, but then as soon as the interview begins, just be present. Make eye contact, listen, and let the conversation be authentic. I have so many favorite interviews. Julie Andrews was a standout surreal moment. Amy Schumer was one of the most fun.

There was nothing like interviewing Venus Williams while going one on one on the tennis court (luckily my interviewing skills are better than my tennis skills).

What advice would you give women looking to enter the media field?

If you aren’t hired for a job you want, create it. We now have the tools, technology, and platforms to be content creators first. Learn aspects of every job from camera

work, editing, graphics, writing, and producing. Find a mentor to support you along your journey.

It is great to have a seasoned pro to bounce ideas off of.

How do you balance your time between your family, media work, and running your two restaurants with your husband?

Most days, I don’t feel there is any balance - especially over this past year. It felt very hard at times. Being a mom and wife is always my number one priority. I try to be fully present when I am with my family. And I try to be fully present during my workday when I am on-air and out on a story. Most of the work I do with my husband happens before my on-air prep in the very early hours of the morning and at night after the kids go to bed. Luckily, it is a labor of love because it can be exhausting. But, when you love all aspects of what you do, there are many, many rewards.

How did it feel to be recognized as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Business?

It was truly an honor. I have been fortunate to be recognized for my work in media, but this was the first recognition for business. Receiving that award alongside powerful business leaders (all of whom I greatly admire) was a very proud moment.

What does the word power mean to you?

It is the ability to make a difference, create positive change, be comfortable, confident, authentic, and feel joy in your own skin. elisadistefano.com www.monelisapizza.com

Photos by Siobhan

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Patricia Nash Designer, Entrepreneur Patricia Nash Designs Nash for Men

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efore becoming a Designer and Entrepreneur, Patricia Nash wanted to open up a bakery at the age of 18. Having managed several commercial bakeries in Houston, she was passionate and skilled in designing and baking cakes.

Unfortunately, due to her youth, she was denied a loan. She took a few accounting courses at a local college, got married, and opened up a little shop called “The Basket Case,” which sold basketry, wicker furniture, and silk floral arrangements. That store expanded to three stores, but tragically, there was a massive fire while she was pregnant with her second child, so she decided to take some time off.

In 1986 she founded Innovo, Inc., which sold household items like aprons, kitchen trivets, and children’s items including craft paint sets, craft aprons, and little mugs.

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Patricia delved into the world of licenses when she acquired those for major league baseball and football, Nickelodeon, Jim Henson’s Muppets, and Disney. The company began to manufacture duffel bags, backpacks, and eventually handbags.

Patricia then moved to Knoxville in 1999, where she began creating handbags for dozens of household brands. She loved Tennessee so much that when the company decided to move to Los Angeles, Patricia left the company to stay in Knoxville.

Considering her next career move, Patricia was lured to New York City and commuted there weekly for several years designing for other brands. In 2007, she moved back to Knoxville and launched a company to license and produce handbags for other brands. After much inspiration and encouragement, in 2010 she

launched her namesake brand, Patricia Nash Designs, a line of affordable, hand-crafted leather bags inspired by memories of travel, family, and her life. Her collections pay homage to vintage craftsmanship through delicate, hand-finished detailing and a fresh take on timeless styles. Patricia’s lifestyle brand has now grown to include gift items, scarves, luggage, and Nash for Men. Her brand can be purchased in major retailers across the U.S. including Macy’s, Dillard’s, Belk, military exchanges, QVC, TSC, and HSN. In 2019, the brand launched jewelry and knit woven accessories. In 2020, they celebrated the brand’s ten-year anniversary.

In 2020, Patricia established an emergency fund for women and children through the YWCA of East Tennessee, aiming to help prevent homelessness in her community.

She also became a member of C200, a national organization of women business leaders. The company is an approved member of WBENC. In January of 2021, the company announced the appointment of Evolution USA as the licensing and brand management agency for relevant category extensions such as home furnishings and housewares, women’s resort wear, sleepwear, eyewear, and other gift items and accessories. Evolution USA is tapped with developing and managing a full-scale licensing program including identifying retail and licensee partnerships with an initial focus on the North American market. Patricia will still oversee and have approval of all products and will not license their existing product line of handbags.

She enjoys spending time with her family and grandchildren.

What motivated you to launch Patricia Nash Designs in 2010?

In 2008 I was considering retirement and several major retail executives encouraged me to start my own namesake brand. I would often say that if I could create a brand look that was unique and not just another lookalike bag, that filled a whitespace, I would consider it. I have always been a lover of Italian leather bags and vintage handcrafted handbags. Over the years, I had collected quite a few that I loved. The deciding moment that encouraged me most was finding a 50-year-old bag in my mother’s closet that she had saved and cherished over the years. It was a tooled leather bag with braided straps and hand lacing. I knew if I could create a brand bringing back that old world craftsmanship of beautiful, full grain leathers that reminded us of the styles that brought back memories, but also made them functional and affordable for today’s woman, I could have a formula for a successful brand.

How do travel and memories fuel the designs of your handbags?

European travel and vintage shopping is where I get most of my inspiration except for some tropical inspirations. The architecture, the country sides, the vintage shops, and the cultures of so many new experiences always inspire me.

Explain your company’s culture to us and why it’s so important?

Paramount to me is product integrity- it must be as we represent it to be. The customer always comes first.

No one is micromanaged. Everyone is expected to step up to the best of their ability. We are flexible on work hours and location. We understand what it is like to be a working mother or daughter. We all step up to help each other even when it is not in our job description.

We are passionate and believe in the brand and its stories of travel, family, and memories.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

Grassroots marketing really launched us. That included personal appearances, being in stores meeting people, and driving hundreds of miles from one mall to the next meeting sales associates and customers. The second biggest strategy was going on television selling our brand and telling the story.

How do you balance your professional and personal life?

Personal time for me always has been more about quality than quantity, ever since my children were little.

I often would see mothers at ball games or school events talking non-stop with the other mothers and totally disengaged with the kids’ activity. I was 100% focused on my children then and am the same with my grandchildren now when I am with them.

What does the word power mean to you?

Responsibility. patricianashdesigns.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 13

p atri c ia n a s h d e s ig n s . c om

Real Estate

POWER COUPLE OF THE YEAR

Jennifer & Jason Gibson Real Estate Agents, Entrepreneurs | Waterfront Realty

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ennifer Gibson is an entrepreneur and real estate agent with Waterfront Realty group in Southwest Florida.

She is extremely detailed and unlike anyone you will ever meet. Jason Gibson is also an associate real estate broker at Waterfront, and has great communication and negotiating skills. Together they are driven, hard-working, and trustworthy. Both Jennifer and Jason have been business owners and have worked together for over 30 years, being married for 27 of those years. They consider themselves the perfect team.

They own Rita’s Italian Ice in Naples, Florida, and the couple are the awarded operators of Lowdermilk Beach, which is one of the best beaches in Naples.

With close ties to the business community in Naples, the couple specializes in point-to-point customer care from retirees to high profile executives relocating to Florida. Jason takes care of the contracts and negotiations, while Jennifer strives to go above and beyond for her clients, not just finding them the perfect home. As a power couple, Jennifer and Jason strive to ensure their clients find not just a house, but a home within a community that they will become an integral part of, along with their family. They believe in building relationships that last, so even after the home search is over, they continue to be available to their clients, many of whom they count as friends.

Having worked together and been married for over 25 years, what strategies have you used to keep the business as well as the romance alive?

It is hard and not for everyone. Most couples have time away from each other when they go to work. When they come home, then it’s time to spend quality time with each other. Jason and I have to make that separation, too. We have our working relationship during business hours, but we turn it off when we walk through the door at night. Communication in marriage is key. That goes double when you’re business partners.

Explain how the separation of responsibilities at Waterfront Realty Group Inc. has led to your continued success in real estate?

We focus on each of our strengths.

I’m the workhorse and Jason’s the big picture man. I’m all about details.

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Finding the right property that fits our customer’s needs is my specialty. Jason excels at contracts and negotiations. Our professional partnership ensures that our clients have the best two people for the job in one package.

How has your sense of community in Florida helped fuel your other businesses in Naples, Florida?

Jason and I stay very involved in our community. We are actively involved in our church. We volunteer at community events, and we are always out networking and meeting new people. It’s basically being present in daily happenings in Naples and making sure we are a part of what is going on in the community.

What advice would you give to other couples looking to go into business together?

It’s extremely difficult. Owning a business is a very stressful venture on its

own. The one thing you have to make sure of is that you are a rock-solid power couple before you consider going into business together. It adds a completely new level of difficulty into your marriage, and you have to be ready for it. It’s not for everyone, but when it works it’s wonderful.

What does the word power mean to both of you?

When I hear the word power, I immediately think of the following words: Integrity, strength, reliability, success, hard work, and control. The funny thing is that we don’t go about our day thinking about them. They are just who we are.

At the core of our being, we live by these words every day. www.waterfrontrealtygroup.com/ourteam/jennifergibson/

Mia St. John M ia St. John is a proud Mexican American who is a professional boxer and former five-time world and international champion. She is a model, businesswoman, and Tae Kwon-Do champion. Mia was born in San Francisco, California. Her fighting career started at the age of six, when she began competing in Tae Kwon Do. She earned a black belt and received a B.S. in Psychology from California State University of Northridge in June 1994. Mia made her pro-debut in boxing in 1997 after signing a contract with Don King, promoter. After accumulating a boxing record of nearly 70 pro fights and five world and international titles, Mia retired from boxing in 2017.

In addition to hosting sporting events, Mia has made appearances on Conan O’Brien and “Good Morning America.” Her book, “The Knockout Workout” and fitness DVD is in stores nationwide. Due to the personal tragedy of her son committing suicide and husband dying from an overdose, Mia has become a major advocate for mental health awareness. She developed her own foundation, the El Saber Es Poder Foundation, which provides programs and empowers individuals suffering from mental illness, homelessness, addiction, and poverty.

In November of 2008, El Saber Es Poder and Micron donated computers, electricity, and internet to Barrio de La Cantera in Zacatecas, Mexico.

Mia was presented with an award for her role in sports and humanitarianism from Governor Amalia Garcia. She also received the WBC Goodwill Ambassador Award from The World Boxing Council. In 2015, Mia was named Mental Health Warrior, by CNN. In 2011, Mia created a youth wellness program based on her book, “The Knockout Workout.” This youth program addresses serious health and social challenges facing Latino youth and their families today. Mia joined forces with Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano and Metta World Peace on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. to reintroduce the Mental Health in Schools Act and create awareness and support for mental health initiatives.

In 2014, Mia’s son Julian passed away at the age of 24. He was a talented artist battling Schizophrenia and addiction. His art studio, Stone Art, in Palm Springs, California, is now a free center for young adults suffering from mental illness, including homelessness and addiction.

Professional Boxer, Model, Advocate

What made you decide to pursue a career in boxing?

I started competing when I was six in Tae Kwon Do. I wanted to be a boxer ever since seeing the movie, “Rocky.” I sent a letter to Don King expressing this and he signed me. I switched from Tae Kwon Do to boxing at that point.

How did it feel becoming the WBC international world boxing champion in your home country?

I was born in America, but Mexico is where my family is from. To win in Mexico was one of the highlights of my career.

What advice would you give to young women interested in a career in boxing?

You cannot turn pro until you get a college degree. That is what my mom always said, and I agree. Education is extremely important.

Boxing is a sport and a dangerous one. I got recognized for boxing but used my voice to speak on behalf of mental health.

What have you learned from losing loved ones from mental health issues?

I have grown and evolved as a human being. What is important is the greater good and making things better in the mental health system. My son was sacrificed for the greater good.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power means the strength to survive anything. When you have to live life without your child, that is strength. www.miastjohn.com

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

Lifetime M

MATHY MILLING DOWNING

athy Milling Downing is an alliance member with the nonprofit KnowMoreAboutDrugs.com.

With over 16 years of experience, she is responsible for advocating for children’s rights, and education regarding the use and effects of antidepressants and other drugs given to children. She has served as a lobbyist and is the past state director of Drug Awareness.com. Mathy earned an M.E.Q. in Special Education, an M.A. in Elementary School Counseling from Johns Hopkins University, and holds additional educational certifications.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I have spent over 40 years as a teacher. I am a mother and a child advocate. My advocating for children nationally and internationally began with the demise of my 12-year-old daughter in 2004, who died from being prescribed a medication for an off-label use. We had no knowledge of the dangers of this classification of drugs. There were no medication guides or warnings.

I wanted to be a voice for positive change and an advocate for those who had no voice.

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

It was hard to testify in front of the FDA about errors made in regard to children. It was very difficult to stand up in front of a panel of medical experts and tell them that they had knowingly failed us as parents by 18 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Month

WOMAN OF THE

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

She belongs to ISEPP, ADK, an international sorority for outstanding women educators, and serves on the boards of African Palms, Episcopal Church Women for the Diocese of Washington, DC, as well as the National Board of the United Thank Offering. She has been recognized in both Who’s Who in America and Marquis Who’s Who Top 100 Registry for Business Leaders and Professionals. Mathy has earned three humanitarian awards for her work with children’s rights. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, travel, beaches, and being with her family.

withholding information that could have saved our children’s lives.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means strength.

Women need to not be intimidated.

We need to stand up for what we believe and not be afraid. Empowerment is moving forward, being bold, and speaking truths. It’s refusing to be silenced. It’s the expectation of equality and a shared voice. Women are powerful. When we speak, people need to listen. We need to stand up for our beliefs and be recognized.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I read every day. I also take yoga.

I love to walk. I am fortunate that there are beautiful trails nearby. I also find being on a beach very soothing; I enjoy walking, listening to the waves, and the sound of gulls.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

Take time to breathe. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Have gratitude for all that you have. Don’t regret the past. Look forward and learn from your mistakes. Be a life-long learner and share your knowledge with others.

What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

I am reading “It’s Okay to Laugh (Crying Is Cool Too)” by Nora McInerny. It’s a relatable memoir.

It’s a reminder that bad things happen to good people. You learn to live through the pain and move forward.

It deals with family dynamics.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Never give up; follow your dreams.

Give it your best shot. Not everyone will like you. There will be people you won’t like as well and that’s okay.

You will be emotionally stronger and more realistic because of it. knowmoreaboutdrugs.com

President, Co-Owner Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd. Knapp Sisters Cattle Company D&S Investments

Darcy Knapp-Fricks

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arcy Knapp-Fricks serves in a variety of industries including real estate, investments, cattle production, ranching and self-storage. She is the President and Co-Owner of Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd., started with her sister, Shelly Knapp, in 1999, which specializes in land rentals. They also own Knapp Sisters Cattle Company which focuses on cattle production and ranching and D&S Investments. Darcy is responsible for land rentals, agricultural and ranch management.

She provides, maintains and manages rental properties and real estate.

In addition, Darcy and Shelly own The Knapp Sisters Self Storage which consists of five self-storage building facilities. The self-storage facility is a AAA business which consists of five self-storage buildings, with the largest of the five being climate controlled.

They are open 7 days a week. Their business was rated the #1 U-Haul dealer in the State of Texas and #3 U-Haul dealer in the U.S. Darcy and her sister are members of the Texas Self Storage Association, the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, the Arlington Historical Society, the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. Darcy attended the University of Texas at Arlington and Texas Wesleyan University. She was featured in an article regarding her family donating land to make a

Distinction

WOMAN OF

historical park. In her spare time, she enjoys time spent on her ranch in South Texas and travel.

Darcy’s advice to others is to always go with your gut feeling; it will not steer you wrong. There is nothing too big or too small for you to accomplish. If you believe in yourself and whatever your plans are, you can be successful. She feels strongly that you should never let anyone take your dreams away from you. When she got the idea to build the self-storage facility, she had made up her mind that it was going to be different from others. Even though she knew nothing about the storage business until then, Darcy listened to her gut that told her to go with it, and it has been a success. www.knappsistersselfstorage.com

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

Woman

OF DISTINCTION

Dianne L. Bird Administrative Assistant, Retired McMaster University - Hamilton

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ianne L. Bird is a retired administrative assistant. She spent over 30 years with McMaster University of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. While with the university, she provided administration and general support to the University Advancement Office, the president and to the six faculties. She also arranged dinners and meetings internationally to promote the University. Currently, Dianne is active with a local senior center. She is a member of the McMaster University Retirees Association. Through this association, she actively liaises with other retirees. In her retirement, Dianne enjoys reading, member of several book clubs, enjoys yoga, volunteering for animal rescue, helping children with special needs, and senior wellness.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

When I was going back to work, I decided to start with Kelly Services.

This gave me a good variety of jobs and an idea of what was out there. I had about six different jobs. Each was different and gave me more experience in my field. Then I applied for and got the job at McMaster.

The university was perfect for me.

My areas of expertise were teaching hospital and university advancement.

University advancement covered the whole of the university regarding raising funds for areas that were desperately in need. Before I retired, I had raised $4,500,000.

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

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It was challenging telling your boss that you were willing to do new challenges and learn new things. The obstacles were that if you didn’t have a degree, it was thought that you didn’t have the ability to take over the more challenging portfolios. Experience at the university wasn’t a plus; you really had to push your way up front to get the opportunity.

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

It’s challenging trying to show that we are quite capable of making decisions and making new ideas come to fruition. It is harder to get the jobs that women can do and do well.

They really have to put themselves out there.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

It means acknowledging all the struggles that women have to go through in order to prove themselves worthy of their jobs and the fact that they are very talented and knowledgeable. They must prove themselves to the powers that be and be recognized by their peers. Empowerment is when you have reached the goals that you have set out to accomplish.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

When I was working, I would grab some tea and sit in the rose garden in the summer, take in the birds, the fragrance of the roses, and the peacefulness. In the winter, there is a little nook on the second floor that is very quiet and relaxing. In the summer, I now retreat to my gazebo; in the winter I relax in our living room. Both areas are quiet and are good places to read and relax.

What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

Reading is one of my favorite hobbies. Since I have joined book clubs, there are different books every month. The challenge is to figure out what the author is telling you, whether you like the book or not, and the reason why. I am now reading “The Litigators” by John Grisham, which is a murder mystery, and as the title suggests, lawyers are involved. This book is being very challenging for me. Usually I have figured out who the murderer is before I have finished the book. This one will be different. www.mcmaster.ca

Susan Zemser Israel A

Owner | 3 Lovebugs/dba Entrée Boutique

n experienced businesswoman, Susan Zemser Israel was the owner of 3 Lovebugs/dba Entrée Boutique, which was a fashion boutique in Port Washington, New York. The shop carried women’s and teenage girls’ clothing and accessories. Susan was a buyer and stylist. She was responsible for the overall shop operations, inventory, selling, marketing, management, and style decisions.

With an impeccable sense of style and a love of fashion, Susan collaborated with her clients to help them attain just the right look, accessorizing and personalizing outfits to match each individual’s own sense of couture.

From finding those special shoes, belts, jeans, or a blazer, she ensured that her store carried the current fashions that are in vogue, from timeless pieces to vacation wear and professional outfits. Customers often said that rather than feeling that they’d gone to a store to buy clothes, they felt as though they’d spent the afternoon with girlfriends having fun.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Susan received her B.A. in Accounting from Baruch College in 1985, and received her M.A. in Education and Psychology, and Early Childhood Education from New York University in 1996. Previously, Susan worked at Morgan Shareholder Services and the 92nd Street Y Nursery School, of New York City. Currently, Susan is starting a new apparel endeavor in California. She is very excited at the prospect of sharing her love of couture with new customers and establishing herself as a West Coast fashionista.

Susan Zemser Israel is one to watch, in style. The previous owner of Entrée Boutique in Port Washington, NY has since ventured to the West Coast to share her love for couture and aesthetics with friends, family, and aspirers alike. During her time as the owner and lead stylist at Entrée, Susan has created a niche for not only developing her client’s impeccable wardrobes, but curating confidence unique to each individual woman, many of whom she gratefully calls friends.

Since refreshing her lifestyle from the East Coast to Newport Beach, CA, the mother of three and leader in the fashion space has proven that opportunity and adventure can strike anywhere. With styling, sales, marketing and operations under her (undeniably chic) belt - Susan is planning for her next endeavor, a shop fit for the Golden State. She ensures that her store will always

carry unique styles - from timeless pieces to vacation wear and professional outfits. Her New York customers often reflect that an experience at Susan’s boutique was that of having a fun time with girlfriends. Susan wants her future California clientele to feel the same. With NYC in the rearview for now, anticipation is high for this next chapter in Ms. Zemser Israel’s vogue journey. In addition to Ms. Zemser Israel’s entrepreneurship, Susan is active in raising funds for CMTA and Inspire Napa Valley to benefit Alzheimer’s research development.

Susan resides in Newport Beach, CA where she spends her leisure time enjoying the company of her three children, Hannah, Elana and Jake. She continues to satisfy adventure through new activities outdoors, sailing, and travel.

Distinction

WOMAN OF

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

Woman

OF DISTINCTION

Dr. Mary J. Gallant

Sociology Faculty | Rowan University

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r. Mary J. Gallant has been an associate professor of Sociology at Rowan University since 1992. She teaches classical social theory in the core of the sociology major. From 2007-2012 she served as chair of Sociology and continued as chair of the combined department of Sociology and Anthropology from 2013-2015.

Dr. Gallant earned her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Minnesota in 1985.

The Holocaust was a turning point in the lives of millions of European Jews, and, in the post-Holocaust years, it vitalized various kinds of social science research supporting helpful intervention to end genocide. Dr. Gallant published her first book in this area, “Coming of Age in the Holocaust: The Last Survivors Remember” (2002) and is preparing a new edition of this work. Her journal articles and book chapters associated with the study of the Holocaust came out of presentations at international conferences in Germany and Britain on rescue and resistance. She focuses on interaction strategies and self-processes associated with surviving destruction of the self during extremity related to genocide. Her recent work is presently underway reflecting on the Holocaust and Allied forces in WWII. It is expected to contribute to a socio-historical volume on military ethics and education.

An additional element of Dr. Gallant’s research is in the area of social network analysis. This research emphasis emerged out of her dissertation on medical school socialization. In 2013, she published a second book, “Friendship Networks in Medical School: A Network Analytic Approach to the Study of Social Solidarity” at the invitation of a German publisher specializing in dissertation research and interested in teamwork in different kinds of social networks. Work is now being prepared which focuses on the role of informal social support and medical student success.

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How did you get started in your field/ industry?

My mentor at the University of Missouri was Dr. Robert W. Habenstein. He was famously associated with qualitative sociology and the success of graduate students who studied under him. My undergraduate work led on to a master’s degree sponsored by a Killam fellowship in the area of family, kinship, and community in the North Atlantic.

His own training at the University of Chicago connected me to his colleague Dr. Gregory Prentiss Stone and, after Dr. Stone’s untimely death, Dr. Joseph J. Galaskiewicz, my dissertation advisor. At the time they were both on faculty where I completed my Ph.D. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Throughout my career I have been aware that women in academia are up against a different pattern of irrationalities of prejudice and detraction, envy, and hatred, than male colleagues.

Gender scripts that guide our lives in many areas still need to be fine-tuned to make career paths smoother. My biggest obstacles were here. In the worst of times, finding surprising alliances were as important as self-discipline and critical self-examination in gaining the higher ground I sought.

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

Stay organized. Be open to new people and ideas. Learn to laugh and love life with family and friends. Always encourage the best in everyone wherever you work.

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

Integrity and ethics matter. Respecting the dignity of others is very important. I teach this to my students.

Especially when the going gets tough, keep a realistic sense of humor, an ability to think clearly and strategically and, carry a great vocabulary!

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

Optimism. Miracles happen. Help them materialize. academics.rowan.edu/chss/departments/sociology/facultystaff/marygallant.html

Dr. Pam Gumbs

Month

WOMAN OF THE

Owner and CEO United Pharmacy

D

r. Pam Gumbs is the owner and CEO of United Pharmacy, which is a pharmacy providing personalized pharmaceutical services in conjunction with patients’ full medical history for over 20 years in Berkeley, California. Dr. Pam has been in the industry for 40 years, and is currently responsible for operations including hiring, inventory, and customer relations. She provides consultation services on all medications, specializing in asthma and respiratory disorders. She also conducts medication therapy management services for all patients.

In addition to running the pharmacy, Dr. Pam is the consultant pharmacist for the City of Berkeley, president of the Alameda County Pharmacists Association, past president of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists- California Chapter, member of Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International and the Federation of International Pharmacists.

Dr. Pam provides community service for Alameda County regarding substance abuse and youth education.

Dr. Pam obtained a Pharm.D. from the University of California at San Francisco School of Pharmacy in 1975 and completed a Geriatrics Residency at the University of California at San Francisco Geriatric Institute. In her spare time she enjoys golf, reading, writing, sewing, museums, and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

As a child I wanted to be of service to my community. My fields of interest included legal and healthcare. I chose pharmacy because I did not know of any women lawyers. I am grateful for that decision.

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

The world tends to pick upon the intellectual human beings. As a Black woman of color, the world appears to pick upon me twice as much for that reason alone.

How do you achieve work/life balance?

Life is 90% attitude. I believe that my work is pretty much a part of my life. I enjoy my work as much as I enjoy my family and friends. I sincerely believe that finding a career that is rewarding to oneself gives one an optimistic view of life.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

My escape and/or recharge button began as a child when my mother asked me to just sit down and read a good book.

Even today, picking up a journal, book, or even a good continuing education article tends to put that smile back on my face. I am once again ready for the challenge now before me.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

The golden rule has been my template for life and living: Do unto others as you wish others to do unto you.

What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

My younger brother gave me “The Expositor’s New Testament” to read as a guide upon reading and interpreting Bible verses. During challenging times, one often misinterprets events based upon attitude. An overview of the situation might show two opposing viewpoints. When the positive is challenged, one can seek another unbiased viewpoint from this book.

What does empowerment mean to you?

I often liken the world of pharmacy to the term “cutless surgery.” Whom does the community patient come to regarding the correction of a physical or psychological occurrence but the pharmacist, who through their knowledge of clinical pharmacy can offer the proper referral or medication to correct these things without actually entering the amazing human body?

I sincerely believe that knowledge is empowerment. The knowledge of dispensing the proper medication to the right patient for the right disease state and the patient’s compliance with a medication regimen is empowering.

Teamwork among the provider, the pharmacist, the nurse, the dentist, and the patient is essential. www.consultingwithdrpam.com

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

Women

OF THE MONTH

Jaleana C. Stevenson Author | Jibari’s World LLC

J

aleana C. Stevenson is an author, flight attendant for American Airlines, and world traveler who was inspired to write a children’s book in response to the pandemic and social culture in America. She wrote “Jibari’s World: The Profound Question,” to help children understand what is happening in the world, and to give them a broader knowledge of social issues. It is intended to help people have a conversation with children regarding racial injustice and systemic racism as well. Her book is available for purchase on amazon.com and through her website, along with T-shirts and face masks. Jaleana attended Xavier University. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her family, fashion, travel, dining out, and music. www.jibarisworld.com

Latosha L. Veney

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Motivational Speaker, Life Coach, Business Consultant, Author Caring Hearts and Hands LLC, CNA Business Solutions

atosha L. Veney is a woman of many hats and talents. Her life’s journey consists of running the daily operations of two home care businesses, CNA Business Solutions, life coaching, consulting, and inspiring others through her words as an author and speaker. Due to her ability to serve the elderly and home care communities effectively and compassionately, one of her home care businesses received the “Best in Newport News” in 2019. As a consultant, Latosha is passionate about teaching new home care business owners the knowledge that she has acquired over the years. She also believes in the importance of individuals reaching their full potential.

Through her certified life coaching program and motivational speaking, she provides others with practical tools, strategies, and daily resources to ensure growth when applied. Latosha is the author of “My Quiet Storm.” Her purpose for writing this

Sonia M. Montano

S

onia M. Montano is the CEO and vice president of Montano Wood Care Corp., a wood and metal restoration company based in Yonkers, New York. With over 25 years’ experience, Sonia is responsible for the daily business operations, development, and future growth of the company, as well as maintaining partnerships with various local organizations. Previously, Sonia was the owner and publisher of Nuestro Mundo newspaper, a monthly Spanish language newspaper that covered the New York Metropolitan area. She earned a Business Degree, magna cum

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book was to share an account of the storms she has overcome in her life in hopes of empowering others to quiet their own storms. Latosha received an A.A. in Business Management and Marketing from Strayer University in 2015. When she is not changing the world, she enjoys reading, travel, and creating lasting moments with her family.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment is about taking control of your life. It is a continuous process, happening moment by moment. Empowerment is all about choice. What you choose to do daily reveals how empowered you are. You are in control of your destiny. You are in charge of you. An empowered individual realizes this truth and daily strives to be a better version of themselves so that they are able to empower the world. www.latoshaveney.com

CEO, Vice President | Montano Wood Care Corp.

laude from The College of Westchester in 2002. She is a member of the B.C.W., B.R.I., and is vice president of the Westchester Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. In her spare time, Sonia enjoys being with her family and playing tennis.

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

Two of the biggest challenges that women face today are a deserved higher position in a company along with salary inequality. In general, there are many similar administrative positions for men and women, however the ones given to women are lower in pay. The wage gap

needs to be erased. Another big challenge is unemployment due to childcare.

This is a huge challenge for the working mother. Support needs to be provided to mothers so they can support their children.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means becoming stronger and more confident. It is having the ability to control your life and the power to do something. Power also means letting other people discover how they can be stronger and powerful, and encouraging them to dare to do something they always wanted to do or wanted to achieve. www.montanowood.com

Dr. Fidelia Onyebuchi Nnachetam CEO & Owner | SFS Medical Group

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r. Fidelia Onyebuchi Nnachetam is the owner and CEO of SFS Medical Group, based in Inglewood, California, which provides on-call medical visitation services to patients at home. Dr. Nnachetam has over 20 years of experience. She earned her D.N.P./P.M.H.N.P. from Brandman University in 2021, an M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix in 2012, A.P.R.N., an M.S.N.-F.N.P.-B.C. in 2015, a B.S.N. from the University of Phoenix in 2010, a L.P.H.N., an A.S.N. from Excelsior College in 1999, and an R.N. She is responsible for home visitations, medical services and specializes in family medicine. Dr. Nnachetam belongs to the N.A.N.A. In her spare time,

she enjoys hockey and swimming.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I collaborate with physicians and other team members to provide primary and preventative care by performing physical examinations, diagnosing, treating conditions, and making appropriate referrals. I also educate patients regarding preventative care, prescribed treatments, self-management of disorders, and tailor instructions to patient’s unique conditions.

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

Being in the nursing career can be very taxing and take a toll on a person both physically and mentally.

Barbara Nachon

B

arbara Nachon is the owner of BNachon Building Solutions LLC, a wholesale and retail turnkey operation company. Barbara is a highly motivated Latin business owner with over 25 years’ experience in the industry. Her company sells all types of building materials and is always ready to help anyone in need of her services. She is experienced in all aspects of building including materials, decorating, structuring, tiles, roofing, landscaping, flooring, doors, and design. She provides leadership to her crew and personnel and provides personalized client services.

Barbara’s experience in this field is mainly from all the years of interacting with homeowners, contractors, engineers, and architects.

BNachon Business Solutions LLC is a member of the Better Business Bureau. Barbara is honored to have been chosen by the State of Florida and is Certified as a Woman and Minority Business Owner, which allows her to do business individu-

Some struggles that I endure are balancing work and school while trying to adapt to American culture.

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

Women are often faced with providing for the family or being the head of the household which leads to neglect. There are times when women are not able to take care of themselves or make themselves the priority for a while.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means remaining motivated during challenging times and maintaining a reason to keep going. Having a role model to look up to and being able to follow in their footsteps brings out empowerment.

Owner | BNachon Building Solutions LLC ally, with the state, and with several counties, through the VSS (Vendor Self-Service) System. Known for her huge heart, Barbara has opened Healing Harts Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with mental health issues in her community. They encourage their clients to treat their anxiety and depression with natural holistic supplements, acupuncture, and aroma therapy. The nonprofit also provides education targeting having a better life without drugs or alcohol.

In her spare time, Barbara enjoys volunteering, feeding the homeless, and travel.

Henna Naseem

H

Owner | Natomas Boutique

enna Naseem is the owner of Natomas Boutique, based in Sacramento, California. She is a supplier of women’s clothing. Henna chooses which products to sell including apparel, accessories, and jewelry. Natomas Boutique sells ladies and men’s suits of all seasons and fancy dresses in linen and cotton with embroidery. The store specializes in salwars, sarees, blouses, Maharani style kurtas, kurtis, leggings, frocks, bridal wear, groom wear, and lady’s gold-plated jewelry. Henna oversees the operations, management, marketing, and administration of the shop.

She earned a B.S. in Human Resources Management from the University of Phoenix in 2018. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking and sewing.

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

Stephanie Strawbridge

S

tephanie Strawbridge has over 25 years’ experience in funeral services and grew up in the industry, learning from her grandfather and mother. She is the funeral director at Strawbridge Memorial Chapel, a funeral home in Cleveland, Ohio. She is responsible for offering comfort and compassion to families and overseeing all funeral services and the staff. Stephanie earned a B.S. in Business Management from Central State University in 1992 as an honors graduate. She has worked in the funeral industry since 1989 and became a Licensed Funeral Director in 2007.

In 2008, the Strawbridge family was

dealt a traumatic blow that turned into a blessing in disguise when Stephanie and two family members became unemployed. Stephanie’s vision of owning her own funeral business became a reality when they secured the location for their own funeral home. In October of 2008, the family formed the Strawbridge Memorial Chapel, the first funeral home in the city of Cleveland to be established by an African American woman.

Stephanie is an elected Central Committee member and an elected Executive Committee member in the ward where she resides. She serves as the board vice president of the Mount Pleasant NOW

Ann Marie Cushing

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nn Marie Cushing has over 30 years’ experience in the healthcare field. She serves as a visionary architect, educator, fundraiser, and advocate for health reform initiatives. As a board member of Voice for Hope, she provides leadership and strategic vision focusing on the energy of the natural health constituency of the national health reform effort. In her current role, she advocates and consults for hospitals, clinics, and foundations, and assists with fundraising and education programs for health services. Ann Marie is a board member of the California Institute of Human Sciences. She has served as the co-chair and executive committee board of directors of the Open Center, and as a practitioner and former coordinator of the Sound and Music Institute at the

April Fitzgerald

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pril Fitzgerald is a real estate agent licensed in Virginia. She was born in Washington, DC and currently resides in Virginia where she has lived her entire life. April primarily serves the Northern Virginia and surrounding area, providing buyers and sellers with professional, responsive, and attentive real estate services with regard to marketing and purchasing residential properties for the right price under the best terms. She takes pride in servicing her clients by delivering exceptional

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Funeral Director | Strawbridge Memorial Chapel Development Corporation and sits on the Southeast Design Review Committee. Stephanie is a member of the Greater Cleveland Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., El Hasa Court No. 47 (DOI-PHA) serving as imperial deputy for the Desert of Ohio, Bethel Chapter No. 58 Order of Eastern Star, and enjoys a lifetime bond with her Kappa Sweetheart sisters from Central State University (Delta Zeta Chapter).

Stephanie was honored as the first African American woman to open a funeral home in Cleveland, Ohio. She was selected as Business Woman of the Month by Iota Phi Lambda and recognized by Who’s Who in Black Cleveland. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and karaoke. www.strawbridgememorialchapel.com

Visionary Architect and Fundraiser | Voice for HOPE

Center, which is a holistic learning center based in New York City. She earned an M.G.A. from the University of Maryland. She is certified in Holistic Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies, California Journal of Holistic Studies, and the New York Open Center. She holds certifications in Cranial Sacral Biodynamic, Shin Jitsu, Tai Chi, Qigong, and Yoga Therapy. Ann Marie has traveled worldwide as a spokesperson for health and integrative medicine modalities.

Ann Marie is a certified light and sound therapist, practicing both therapies in mindfulness settings. She

has been a program and health advisor for several national and international organizations, and is a speaker in the health, wellness, and scientific communities of integrative and holistic medicines. Ann Marie is the former president of The Pavilion, and a member of the Asia Pacific Spa and Wellness Coalition, Global Foundation of Integrative Medicine, New York Academy of Sciences, Bangkok Scientific, SpaChina, Sound Healing Association, and Alliance and Holistic Chamber of Commerce. She was featured in Steinway Magazine and SpaChina as a contributing writer. Ann Marie enjoys travel, photography, and is a film maker. www.voiceforhope.org

Realtor® | Weichert Realtors service and establishing lifelong relationships. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, traveling, shopping, and spending time with her family. April is married and has four children.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I always aspired to be a realtor. Since my daughters were flourishing and developing into their own young women, I knew that it was the perfect time for me to secure my real estate license.

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

One of the biggest challenges and obstacles I have faced in my career is time management. I found that staying consistent to a routine and schedule along with dedication is the key to my success.

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

I feel the biggest challenge for women is maintaining equality in the workplace alongside our male counterparts, specifically in the realm of leadership positions and promotions. www.brightmlshomes.com/april-fitzgerald

Lorie A. McDaniels

IT Consultant Sempra Energy

program management, resource management, and employee training. Lorie earned a B.A. in Political Science from Loyola Marymount University in 1982. She has experience in managing various human resource projects related to HR, payroll, compensation, and benefits.

She is also experienced in resolving production orie A. McDaniels is an information technology consultant with over 25 years’ experience. Current- problems, process improvement efforts, quality ly, she is responsible for artificial intelligence pro- assurance procedures, adhering to project lifecycles, and gram management with Sempra Energy. She is the chief RAD methodologies. In her spare time, Lorie enjoys technical liaison for the company and is responsible for reading, visiting wineries, and being a wine connoisseur.

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Nancy Grabusnik

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ancy Grabusnik is the owner and manager of G&S Hardware & Supply, True Value/Benjamin Moore Paint store. She has 25 years’ experience in the retail industry. She is responsible for the sales of hardware, plumbing, electrical, cleaning, automotive, and other supplies. Nancy oversees the daily management and operations of the store, hiring and training the staff, ensuring staff safety, and ordering specialty items as necessary. As a locally owned hardware store, she enjoys liaising with customers and ensuring they have the supplies they need for their community. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, crafting, travel, and spending time with family and friends.

Owner and Manager | True Value G&S Hardware & Supply

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I got started in the hardware business when my husband, myself, my sister-in-law, and my brother-in-law purchased the business. I have always worked in the customer service field and excel at helping and assisting people with issues.

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

The biggest challenge I was faced with was when my husband passed away. I had to step into his role and run the business with very little knowledge of how to be an owner/boss. Also, it is challenging understanding the customer’s

Lakeisha Marie Davis

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akeisha Marie Davis is a Certified Paraprofessional with the Newark public schools in the New Jersey Regional Day School, in Newark, New Jersey. She has over 25 years’ experience in the educational arena and is responsible for assisting teachers and helping students with special needs. In her spare time, Lakeisha enjoys reading and shopping.

How did you get started in your field?

I was a junior in high school and worked part-time in a daycare center.

I loved working with young children, helping them grow and develop. I realized that a young child’s mind is like a pot of gold. They light up when they

Month

WOMEN OF THE

learn something new. I decided to be an educator and get the necessary tools to achieve my goal, which is to open my own day center. I want to give back to the community by providing a healthy and safe environment for these young minds to grow, develop, and have positive academic achievement. My center will have classes to teach young mothers to deal with their children’s problems and behaviors. We will provide afterschool tutoring and many recreational activities such as music, dancing, yoga, and art classes.

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

The challenges I face are equal

needs, especially when there is a language barrier.

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

For the field that I’m in, the biggest challenge I face is with the older generation that feel a woman doesn’t know anything about hardware, electrical, plumbing supplies, etc. They think I’m the phone/counter girl.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means having the authority to make decisions, give approval to improve things, and make changes. stores.truevalue.com/nj/hackensack/18955

Paraprofessional North Public School opportunity, equal pay, and sometimes there is no opportunity for advancement and career opportunity. There is also a lack of teamwork and many employers do not communicate with their employees. As a working mother, I face many challenges. I want to make sure children receive adequate daycare, provide all the necessary things children need to grow, and ensure they get the best academic education to become successful in society.

What does empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment is being a role model and living by example. It means to be able to uplift and motivate others to do better.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 27

Women

OF THE MONTH

Barbara A. Smith

Major Business Application Projects Manager, Retired Salt River Project arbara A. Smith is retired after national minister of music in her church 40 years’ experience. She served organization. Barbara earned a B.S. in as a major business application Business Administration and an M.S. in projects manager with the Salt River Information Systems Engineering from Project, one of Arizona’s largest utilities, Western International University in which has delivered low-cost, reliable 2007. She enjoys being with her family, power and water for more than 100 reading, and starting a new career in years. During her career, Barbara mandesktop publishing. aged teams of software developers and What are some of the biggest challengprovided technical support for multiple es/obstacles you faced in your career? and varied applications. Although the bulk of her I was hired at Salt River Project during the era career was spent in the development and support where careers in the information technology field were dominated by males. I went on to become of technologies for human resources and payroll, she also spent the first female to hold the position of manager of time managing teams who provided support for multiple applihuman resources information systems. cations to all organizations throughout the company.

What does the word empowerment mean to Barbara is experienced in all phases and stages of lifecycle you? development for technology, including R&D, growth, matuIt is having the authority and power to be in rity, and decline. She has a deep understanding of the various control of your future and destiny. It is allowplatforms used for technology development, including appliing someone the chance to seek and find the cation, content management, analytics, Web and API. Curconfidence to secure and utilize opportunities to rently, she mentors young women by encouraging them to seek showcase their abilities. careers in the mathematics and science fields. She serves as a

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Viki B. Zarkin

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Motivational Speaker

iki B. Zarkin is a motivational speaker and coach on a national level with over ten years’ experience. She earned a B.S. in Communications and Broadcast Journalism from Ithaca College in 1987. Viki emphasizes empowerment and helps people advocate for themselves, especially in medical situations.

Viki is living with metastatic stage 4 cancer and gets chemo monthly.

She wants women to know that they should stand their ground, believe in themselves, and trust their gut feelings – whether it is about people, health issues, or other concerns. Viki enjoys

Susan Ramos

S

travel, cooking, and her family.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

With a degree in Communications and Broadcast Journalism, I’m not afraid to share my voice. When I got cancer and my doctor first told me to go home and get my affairs in order, I had two small children at home.

My story needs to be told, and I am now writing a book, titled “I AM THE ONE.” What are some of the biggest chal-

Facilitator, Coach, Author Vibrational Healing / Decipher Wellness

usan Ramos is a facilitator, coach, and author. She has been with Vibrational Healing and Decipher Wellness for 12 years and is responsible for energy work, teaching healing, wellness, PTSD wellness, vibrational, and energy healing. Susan received an A.A. from the University of Phoenix in 1998. She is a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served from 1985-1993. In her spare time, she enjoys writing.

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

lenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

It’s been difficult to adjust and pivot during COVID-19 for motivational speakers, especially someone like myself that is so involved with the audience. I learned to adapt to Zoom. The technical aspect was a bit of a damper. However, the biggest obstacle is helping enough women, and making myself heard enough so that I can make a change for woman and their preventative health.

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

We are taught not to believe in ourselves. I find this in the medical world all the time. We think doctors are always right, so we do whatever they say instead of following our gut or our intuition; we are dying because of it. We were raised to be “yes” people, not “no” people, and that must change. www.iamtheone.com

Wylaina Tucker Dugar

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ylaina Tucker Dugar is the owner of Cincinnati Cleaning Experts, LLC which serves the Southwest Ohio region. She takes her role as a minority and female business owner very seriously. Wylaina is an expert in details and COVID-19 sanitization. Cincinnati Cleaning Experts, LLC specializes in residential, commercial, apartment, and post construction cleaning. As a nurse turned entrepreneur, Wylaina has always enjoyed serving and helping others. Her passion for cleaning started over seven years ago in 2013 as a hobby while cleaning her own home, then branching out to include family members and friends.

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

One of the major challenges I face as a nurse, entrepreneur, author, wife, and mother, is that I wear many hats. Sometimes it’s hard to prioritize my time and juggle multiple things.

Right now, it’s challenging to clean people’s homes in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, not all people are receptive to allow this much needed service to take place in their homes at this time due to fear of infection and contagion.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means goals achieved that can be manifested in our daily

Diana Dee DeFranco

D

iana Dee DeFranco is the owner, a notary, and title clerk with Dee’s Notary & Tag Service Inc. She has almost 30 years’ experience in the industry and is responsible for the overall operations, management, and administration of the business. Diana has some college and is a Licensed Notary Public. She works with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation processing title requests. Additionally, she provides notary services for individuals, businesses, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. Diana belongs to the Lion’s Club and S.B.A. In her spare time,

lives. The acronym that I personally use to motivate myself and overcome my own obstacles is ‘E.M.P.O.W.E.R.M.E.N.T,’ which stands for: ‘Evolve and mitigate powerful obstacles of women, eradicating radical mediocrity and embracing new trailblazers.’

I use this word as part of my daily affirmation. Empowerment can be as complex as one makes it, or as simple as the acronym I used to define it. Ultimately, empowerment is an individual’s adherence to activate their true destiny through unlocking the greatness within and revealing one’s true identity. www.CincinnatiCleaningExperts.org.

Owner, Notary, Title Clerk | Dee’s Notary & Tag Service Inc.

she enjoys boating, fishing, and being with her family.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I became a notary in 1993. I wanted to utilize my customer service skills to help people that may not understand or some that may not have the capability to complete transactions by themselves.

Working with the state vehicle and driver license procedures can be very difficult. I worked for a dealership in Gap, Pennsylvania that had been established for over 40 years. In 2017, I was able to obtain the business and turn my passion for helping people into my purpose and career.

Lady M. McIntosh

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Owner | Cincinnati Cleaning Experts, LLC

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

Some of the largest challenges that we face in our facility is the process to make our customers understand that once the paperwork leaves our office, we have no control over the completion of the work.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means having the resources, contacts, skills, and knowledge to complete customer service requests.

Having confidence in oneself demonstrates the word empowerment. No task is too little to achieve, and no challenge is too big to tackle. I believe in treating everyone with respect, kindness, and following the golden rule.

Author, Speaker, Coach, Counselor, Radio Host | ILM Media Group

ady M. McIntosh is the owner of ILM Media Group.

She is a speaker, counselor, radio host, and Certified Coach. Lady M has over nine years’ experience, and currently serves as a dating coach, assisting single people in finding a partner. She coaches her clients regarding relationships, dating, and family. She also provides life coaching services. Lady M earned a B.A. from Point University in 2015 and is currently a candidate for an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy. In her spare time, she enjoys painting, traveling, and being with her family and friends.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

My journey began in media as a coordinating producer in 2006 with the Wedding TV Network. In 2010, my first book, “So You Want to be Married” was released. After releasing my book, I received my certification as a life coach.

During my undergraduate studies, my purpose became clear to me. In 2017, I received a phone call from the Glory Network regarding an offer to become a radio show host.

That began my career in radio. When the pandemic happened, I decided to receive my certification as a dating and relationship coach. My radio show platforms are used to discuss women’s empowerment, dating, relationships, and marital topics.

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

The biggest challenges I faced were life’s ups and downs. I had to learn and understand that there will be times when you want to throw in the towel. However, the path to my purpose took time, and I ultimately realized my purpose is to provide guidance to others.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means strength, confidence, and durability. It is a word that speaks volumes about what a leader should possess.

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

P.O.W.E.R.

PUBLICITY

I

f you are interested in being interviewed to get your story on social media, consider an in-person interview, podcast, press release, video, or possibly a 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.

P.O.W.E.R. TALK TV Set up your in-person interview through P.O.W.E.R. Talk TV. Allow others the opportunity to visually get to know you and your business.

P.O.W.E.R. TALK RADIO Our podcasts are pre-recorded 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.

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 A press release is a written public announcement covering your personal and business accomplishments designed to enhance your 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.

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

For further information, call us at (516) 365-3222 Ext. 209 or (631) 393-6760 Email us at info@powerwoe.com Visit us at: www.powerwoe.com Follow us on social media FB: @POWERWOE Twitter: @powerwoe Instagram: @power_woe

K R O N MOORE After graduating from Specs Howard School of Media Arts, what was your lucky break into the world of entertainment?

My first audition (ever) was an open call for a musical, and I was mortified to perform in a room full of the other candidates. The director ran out to catch me and offered me the lead role.

How did you get your start in entertainment?

I formed an R&B/Pop girl group in high school. A little-known fact is that we were offered the opportunity to be an opening act on a tour. I had to decline because I was starting my freshman year of college.

What traits have you used to create your villainous character, Victoria Franklin in “The Oval?”

Victoria is a complicated combination of stealth, wit, cunning, intelligence, and volatility. I’ve “borrowed” traits from other actors I admire, as well as from real-life experiences.

Which is your favorite acting medium: TV, film, or theatre, and why?

Theatre is my favorite acting medium.

Mel B. Elder

K

ron Moore is known for bringing dynamic female characters to life, showcasing her ability to illuminate their strong inner compass, unshakeable drive, and sheer determination. She stars as one of primetime’s most larger-than-life villains, Victoria Franklin, in Tyler Perry’s #1 rated series “The Oval” on BET. Currently in its second season, the dramatic series captures the volatile relationship between the President, first lady and first children, as they navigate their new life in the White House. Kron can also be seen playing Dr. Chapel in the DC Universe series “Stargirl,” based on the DC Comics superhero Stargirl, created by Geoff Johns and Lee Moder. Additional television credits include OWN’s “David Makes Man,” Amazon Prime’s “Them,” OWN’s “The Haves and the Have Nots,” TLC’s “Too Close to Home,” ID Tv’s “Swamp Murders” and “Detroit 1-8-7.”

On the film side, Kron starred as Linney in the 2020 Sundance Film Festival official selection “Beast Beast,” executive produced by Alec Baldwin. Her other film credits include “The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water,” “Into the Storm,” and “Mosquito-Man.” As a vocalist, her voice can be heard on several albums and she has been part of various singing groups. She also boasts a career in theatre with credits including Ain’t Misbehavin’, Triumph and Tragedy- The Life of Sam, and Little Shop of Horrors.

Kron is a graduate of The University of Alabama with a degree in Psychology. She also studied Film, Television and Radio Broadcasting at Specs Howard School of Media Arts, ranking second in her graduating class. A Detroit native, Kron currently lives in Atlanta, Georgia.

Committed to using her visibility and influence in positive ways, she remains an advocate for wellness, mental health, anti-bullying, women’s empowerment, and education.

Actress, Mental Health Advocate

As actors, we only have one opportunity to perform for that audience, so it’s fun to play off of their energy. We also have several opportunities to make real-time discoveries about our character.

What are some of the ways you advocate for wellness, mental health, anti-bullying, women’s empowerment, and education?

I use my platform to mentor, encourage overall health, including mental health, and eradicate the stigma associated with mental illness. I strive to be the personification of women’s empowerment by consistently supporting women in business and those who are breaking boundaries.

Is there something you haven’t accomplished yet that you still want to do?

I’m interested in writing and directing. In the near future, I’d like to focus my efforts on creating stories that represent my culture in its wholeness.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is understanding who you are, being authentic, and relentlessly pursuing your goals. It’s being loving and kind, despite your circumstances.

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

Marjorie A. Graf

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arjorie Graf is the president and chairman of the board of directors of Graf & Sons Inc. which 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. Graf & Sons, Inc. 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 in Mexico, Missou-

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

ri that sold boats, motors, hunting, and fishing merchandise. Bob and Marjorie Graf 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. 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.

Today, Graf & Sons stocks over 20,000 products and ships both nationally and internationally by mail order, phone sales, and internet sales. The company has many extremely competent employees including Marjorie’s two sons who are also involved with the business. Marjorie specializes in finance and the overall operations. She also oversees the exporting side of the business, customer service, and sales. Previously, Marjorie served in sales and service at Mexico Refractories and Kaiser Refractories for over 16 years.

In 2013, Graf and Sons Inc. was recognized by the Mexico Chamber of Commerce for their leadership in business, their retail business, and their philanthropy, and was honored at the 29th annual Commerce & Industry Appreciation Dinner.

In January 2019, Marjorie received the Mexico Chamber of Commerce Presidential Award. Recently, she was the 2019 inductee “as an individual” into the Missouri Trapshooting Association Hall of Fame on May 17, 2019 at Linn Creek, Missouri. This was quite an honor as she has always enjoyed the shooting and hunting sports.

Sadly, Marjorie’s husband Bob passed away in 2018. In her spare time, she enjoys family activities with her four children, five grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren. Marjorie also enjoys shooting, camping, hunting, fishing, cooking, and church activities. www.grafs.com

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

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

Chef, TV Personality, Author, Teacher

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ith her trademark spiky blonde hair and sparkling personality, Anne Burrell is the hugely popular and fan favorite host of “Worst Cooks in America” and “Worst Cooks in America: Celebrity Edition.” Anne is an industry veteran and passionate teacher who prides herself on creating rustic Italian dishes that celebrate simple and pure ingredients.

Growing up in upstate New York, Anne’s passion for food and cooking began at an early age, triggered by her love of watching Julia Child and her own mother’s talent in the kitchen. After graduating with a degree in English and Communication from Canisius College in Buffalo, she pursued her interest in the restaurant busi34 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Photos by Ken Goodman

ness by enrolling in the Culinary Institute of America.

Following her graduation in 1996, she furthered her education by spending a year in Italy attending the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. During that year, she did apprenticeships at La Taverna del Lupo in Umbria and the Michelin-starred La Bottega del ‘30, a 30-seat restaurant that offered one six-course seating a night in Tuscany. It was during this period that Anne developed her true love of the Italian kitchen and grew to appreciate and understand the philosophy of Italian cuisine.

Upon her return to the United States in 1998, Anne was hired as a sous chef at Felidia Ristorante in Manhattan, owned by Lidia Bastianich. She then went on

to become a chef at Savoy Restaurant in Soho, where she created flavorful Mediterranean-inspired menus while cooking over an open wood fire.

After several years of working in restaurants, Anne took the opportunity to spread her culinary knowledge and passion as a teacher at the Institute of Culinary Education, where she taught for more than three years. Seeking her next challenge, she returned to restaurant life and accepted the role of executive chef at Lumi Restaurant, while continuing to teach part time. She then moved on to be the executive chef of the Italian Wine Merchants where she curated and executed wine-pairing dinners. It was during this time that Anne began her TV career, appearing as a sous chef on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America.” From there, she went on to be the executive chef at New York hotspot Centro Vinoteca.

While there, Anne was offered her own show on the Food Network, the Emmy-nominated “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,” which ran for nine seasons.

Since then, Anne has become a much-loved staple on Food Network appearing regularly on shows such as “Chef Wanted,” “Beat Bobby Flay,” “Chopped,” “Food Network Star,” and others. She is also the author of two cookbooks, the New York Times top ten bestseller, “Cook Like a Rock Star,” and the follow-up, “Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower,” both of which give home cooks the confidence and support to be rock stars in their own kitchens.

Anne has served on the Garden of Dreams Foundation advisory board, which brightens the lives of children facing obstacles, and is a Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation celebrity ambassador, where she is an advocate for juvenile diabetes awareness. She travels frequently around the country in her role as both a mentor and guest speaker where she discusses her career and love of cooking.

Throughout her culinary journey she has always said, “I feel so lucky to be able to share my true passion in life with others.”

When did you realize that cooking was your calling?

It was actually a very specific moment in my life. I was 23 years old, and I had a major epiphany. I remember everything about the moment- what I was wearing, what time it was, etc. I suddenly realized, I’m 23 and I am way too young to be this miserable. I’m going to go to culinary school. So I moved home after being out of house for six years and got a job as a prep cook. In order to go to the culinary school I went to, they wouldn’t even look at you unless you had some sort of experience first, so that’s how I started my career as a chef- working as a prep cook.

How have your travels in Italy shaped how you cook today?

My travels in Italy have truly shaped who I am now as a chef. I went to Italy not really knowing anything about real Italian food. I only knew the America Italian kitchen (which I loved). Then I got to Italy and realized, this is so much better than I ever knew food could be! Everything I learned about Italy- the people, the culture, etc., really shaped who I am as a chef. When you graduate from culinary school, you have an education and a foundation, but you don’t know much yet. It is through work experience that people decide what kind of a house they want to build on their foundation, and I built myself a little Italian villa.

Who has been your mentor?

I have been lucky to work with some amazing chefs that have really shaped who I have become as a chef. A very important person to me early in my career was Lidia Bastianich, not only because of her Italian cooking in America, but also because of her being an amazing woman chef at a time when there weren’t many doing it. She is an inspiration.

After so many seasons as a host, what still excites you about being part of “Worst Cooks in America?”

To this day, what excites me about “Worst Cooks in America” is taking the journey with these people, watching them go from some of the worst cooks to seeing them actually learning and using the information that they have learned in boot camp. It’s knowing that they take these things that they’ve learned home to their families and that this helps to improve their lives that is so special to me every single season. I get really invested in all of the recruits and their progress. It makes me so happy to see them go on to be successful after the show.

Tell us one thing that people don’t know about you.

Most people probably don’t know that I absolutely love to knit, and I also love to sing karaoke. A lot of people do probably know this already, but I am also a huge New York Rangers fan.

What is a favorite food you can’t live without?

My absolute favorite food is pasta. I love it so much- any how, any way and any time.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power means a lot of things to me. I feel that power can mean confidence, and with that confidence, owning yourself and being the bigger person sometimes. I feel powerful as a woman. I feel powerful as a chef. The love of both of those things and being able to make a living based on what my passion is gives me power. Through my passion and the love of what I do to help people every day makes me feel very powerful!” www.anneburrell.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 35

Recipes by Killer Turkey Burgers Serves 4 Time: About 45 minutes

Directions • Coat a large saute pan with olive oil and toss in the onion. Season

Ingredients MISE EN PLACE

Extra virgin olive oil 1 onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice Kosher salt 2 cloves garlic, smashed and finely chopped 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated 1 eight-ounce can water chestnuts, coarsely chopped (not too fine-they add GREAT texture) 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 Tbsp. sambal oelek or Asian chili paste (optional, but recommended) 1/2 bunch of fresh cilantro, leaves finely chopped 4 burger buns (I like the seeded ones)

GARNISHES (ALL OPTIONAL, GARNISH HOWEVER YOU LIKE) 4 slices American or Cheddar cheese (American melts better) 4 slices beefsteak tomato 4 slices red onion 4 leaves butter lettuce 1/2 cup mayo mixed with 2 teaspoons sambal oelek

•

•

•

•

with salt and bring the pan to medium heat. Cook the onion until soft and very aromatic, 7 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and let cool.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the turkey, ginger, water chestnuts, soy sauce, sambal, cilantro, and the cooked onions and garlic. (NOTE: Save the onion pan to cook the burgers in later!) Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup water to the mix--this will keep the burgers really moist! Use your hands to squish the mixture until everything is really well combined.

Make, cook, and eat a little tester patty to be sure the turkey is really delicious. If the seasoning isn’t just right, add a little more soy or a touch of salt. When you’re confident the burger mix is perfectly seasoned, form it into four equal patties.

With a paper towel, wipe out the sauté pan you used to cook the onion, coat the pan with fresh olive oil, and bring it to mediumhigh heat. Add the burgers, being sure not to crowd the pan--if you need to work in batches, knock yourself out. Cook the burgers for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. The burgers should be browned and cooked through when done. If working in batches, keep the first batch warm in a 200°F oven while cooking the second batch.

Toast the burger buns, top with the burgers, and garnish as desired.

Tagliatelle with Corn and Cherry Tomatoes Ingredients Extra virgin olive oil 3 cloves garlic, smashed Pinch crushed red pepper 1 pint grape tomatoes, cut in half 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable stock Kosher salt

2 ears corn, kernels cut off the cob 1/2 pound fresh tagliatelle 1/2 cup grated parmigiana 6 basil leaves, chiffonade

Directions • Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil.

• Coat a large sauté pan with olive oil and add the garlic and

the crushed red pepper. Bring the pan to a medium-high heat. When the garlic has turned a lovely golden-brown color, remove it and discard. Add the grape tomatoes and half the stock and season with salt. Simmer the pan until the tomatoes have wilted and let off their juices. Add the corn and the remaining stock and simmer until the corn is cooked through.

• While the corn is cooking add the pasta to the pot of salty boiling water. Cook the pasta until the water comes back to a rolling boil plus 1 minute. Remove the pasta from the water and add it to the sauté pan with the tomatoes and corn. Add about a half a cup of the pasta cooking water and cook until the water has evaporated and the sauce clings to the pasta. Remove the pan from the heat. Toss in the parmigiana, basil and a big drizzle of high quality extravirgin olive oil. Stir or toss the pasta vigorously. Divide the pasta between two serving dishes, sprinkle with a little more grated parmigiana, and serve immediately.

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

Taleggio Grilled Cheese with Bacon & Honey Crisp Apples Serves 4

Time: About 40 minutes

Accept it and move on. This is the reality of grilled cheese. The mess is worth it!

1¼ pounds Taleggio cheese • Place an even layer of Taleggio on each piece 12 slices bacon of bread. Lay 3 bacon slices each on 4 pieces of the Taleggio-lined bread. Top the bacon 8 slices rye bread with an even layer of apple slices (these are 8 Tbsp. (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temp the bottoms, the ones with just cheese are the ½ cup Dijon mustard tops—together they make a pair!).

1 Honey Crisp apple, peeled and sliced really • Preheat a griddle or nonstick sauté pan to thin on a mandolin medium. You will most likely have to work in Directions batches, so also preheat the oven to 200°F to keep the finished sandwiches warm. Place • Toss the Taleggio in the freezer for 20 minutes pairs of tops and bottoms (not yet sandwiched to get it really nice and firm (don’t forget together) on the griddle or in the nonstick pan about it!). Remove the orange rind and cut and cook until the buttered side gets brown the cheese into slices about ¼ inch thick.

• While the cheese is in the freezer, cook the and crusty and the cheese begins to melt, 5 to 7 minutes. When the cheese is nice and melty, bacon in a large sauté pan over medium heat flip the top onto the bottom so the cheese is until brown and crispy on both sides. When on the inside. Give each sandwich a press, the bacon is done, transfer it to a plate lined flip it over, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more. with paper towels and reserve.

Keep the finished sandwiches in the oven and • Spread each piece of bread with a thin, even repeat the process with the remaining tops layer of butter. Spread the other side of each and bottoms. piece of bread with Dijon. Lay the bread • Cut the sandwiches in half on the bias and down on a baking sheet with the Dijon side serve hot. facing up. Yes, I know it will be a little messy.

Ingredients

Kale Caesar Salad Serves 2-4 Time: About 30 minutes Ingredients MISE EN PLACE Extra virgin olive oil 4 cloves garlic, smashed Pinch of crushed red pepper 2 slices of day-old Italian bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano Zest and juice of 1 lemon 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 2 to 3 anchovy fillets 2 shakes Worcestershire sauce Kosher salt 1 bunch of kale, tough stems removed, cut into ribbons

Directions • Coat a large saute pan with olive oil.

Toss in half the garlic and the crushed red pepper and bring the pan to medium heat. Cook the garlic until it becomes golden and very aromatic, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the garlic and ditch it—it has fulfilled its garlic destiny.

Toss in the bread cubes and cook, stirring

Grilled Broccoli Rabe

Ingredients MISE EN PLACE

1 bunch broccoli rabe, tough lower stems removed Extra virgin olive oil

Serves 2-4

frequently, until they are golden, crisp, and have absorbed all the oil, like little olive oil sponges. Remove from the heat and reserve.

• In the bowl of a food processor, combine the Parmigiano, lemon zest and juice, the remaining garlic, the Dijon, anchovies, and Worcestershire.

Puree until the mixture is smooth, 15 to 20 seconds. With the machine running, add 1/4 to 1/3 cup olive oil through the feed tube. Let the processor continue to run for another 10 to 15 seconds.

Taste and season with salt if needed.

• In a large bowl, toss the kale with the croutons and two-thirds of the dressing.

Let the kale sit for 3 to 4 minutes to soften. Taste, add the remaining dressing, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Time: About 30 minutes

Kosher salt Pinch of crushed red pepper

Directions • Immerse the rabe in a large bowl of tap water and let it hang out for 10 to 15 minutes.

• Preheat the grill to medium.

• Drain the rabe but DO NOT shake off the excess water. Toss the rabe with olive oil and salt and lay it on the grill in an even layer.

• Cook the rabe for 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning as needed so all sides grill. The

rabe should start to soften and char. If it starts to char too quickly, spray or shake a few drops of water on it.

• When the rabe is tender, remove it from the grill, drizzle with a bit more olive oil, and add a pinch of salt and crushed red pepper. Serve hot or at room temp.

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

Dr. Kelly Mattone D

r. Kelly Mattone graduated summa cum laude from California State University at Los Angeles in 1985.

She served as a Gross Anatomy teaching assistant for three years while earning her medical degree at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. After completing a residency and serving as chief resident in physical medicine, Dr. Mattone continued at Mount Sinai Hospital as an attending physician, clinical residency instructor, and associate professor of Gross Anatomy. She continues to teach in formal and informal settings, after 30 years.

An entrepreneur who recognized the importance of daily sunscreen use and professional strength skin care products, Dr. Mattone created her own line, OMD Physician SkinCare, which is available at Aesthetic Medical Studio. At Aesthetic Medical Studio where science creates beauty, she was the first non-core physician in the US to own and provide FDA cleared Ultherapy to non-surgically lift her patients faces. Her proficiency and passion with Ultherapy led her to become a national speaker, consultant, and educator for Ultherapy, Merz Aesthetics.

Dr. Mattone mentors young women in medicine and is an advisory board member at the Center for the Women of New York and the Navel Health Expo. She sits on the board of directors of Angels on the Bay, a private charity organization of St. Mary’s Children Hospital of Bayside, that has raised millions of dollars for children in community hospitals in her hometown. In 2013, she became a volunteer flight doctor/copilot for Angel Flights, a volunteer organization of pilots with small planes who provide private air transport for sick children to out-of-state medical treatment facilities.

An over-50 model and mother of four children who are athletes, models, and scholars, Dr. Mattone is an accomplished collegiate athlete herself. She keeps fit by keeping up with her kids. To that end, she transformed her formal living room into an indoor NCAA half court regulation basketball court.

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

Cosmetic Physician Aesthetic Medical Studio

What led to your shift from sports medicine to aesthetic cosmetic medicine ?

Early in 1990 I was using Botox, collagen, and ultrasound, to treat medical conditions in children and athletes. In the late 90’s, scientists discovered that Botox and collagen could non-surgically erase lines and wrinkles and lift sagging skin, and ultrasound could stimulate collagen to do the same thing. Baby Boomers took notice, and the popular demand created the emerging specialty of aesthetic cosmetic medicine. Thanks to technological advances, a little scientific creativity and foresight on my part, I realized I was trained and poised to be on the cutting edge of non-surgical cosmetic medicine.

I opened my cosmetic practice, Aesthetic Medical Studio, Where Science Creates Beauty, in Great Neck New York. I’ve been successfully providing the most cutting-edge beauty, without the cutting, for over 20 years.

Explain Ultherapy and its benefits.

The most sought-after procedure in my practice is Ultherapy, a gravity defying ultrasound face and body treatment. Ultherapy is the only FDA cleared procedure to lift and tighten the skin on your jowls, brows, and neck, while visualizing the tissues beneath the skin so I can see where I treat. The sound waves of Ultherapy harness your body’s own power to stimulate your skin to grow brand new collagen at multiple levels. Over the course of a few months, visible and noticeable lifting and tightening of the treated areas will start and continue to improve for up to nine months. The results last for years. I also use Ultherapy on the body to tighten up loose skin on your abs, butt, arms, and knees.

Ultherapy works on every skin type and can be safely performed in the summer on tanned skin. There is no increased sun sensitivity as you have with laser treatments.

How does a patented liquid collagen/HA matrix supplement like Liquid BioCell erase wrinkles from the inside out and restore joint health?

The real reason you have lines wrinkles and joint problems is simply because you have lost collagen and hyaluronic acid (HA). This natural aging starts in your 20’s and continues at a rate of 15% every ten years.

The worst offender is the daily sun exposure without sunblock that adds up exponentially over your lifetime.

You cannot ever stop the aging process, but science has proven that you can reverse the lines, wrinkles, dryness, and joint discomfort associated with aging with Liquid Biocell collagen/HA matrix. I have said for years that the fountain of youth exists. It comes in a bottle of Liquid BioCell collagen/HA matrix.

What makes your OMD Physician SkinCare unique?

When my sister, Dr Susan O’Malley and I formulated that skincare

line 20 years ago, it held the strongest, unique, and powerful combinations of peptides, hyaluronic acid, and botanicals available. We said we would keep it until it was outperformed. I knew the end of our line was coming a few years ago when the CEO of the clean label company I represent asked me as member of the Scientific Advisory Board to critically review the skin care line, Cell Proof Essentials that she was developing for global distribution. It contained an industry first- science driven patented cosmetic grade absorbable topical collagen/(HA) with clinical trials and third-party verification. This technology was incorporated into a complete total face and body system, the likes of which have no comparison, or competitors, certainly not my OMD Physician Skin Care line.

As a global ambassador, I launched the Cell Proof Essentials Skin Care Line in Japan 2019, and the US launch in January 2020. We won the 2019 editor choice beauty award for best green skin care and beat out 43 other countries. The Doctors TV show ranked us as the best skincare system, and we were recognized in New Beauty Magazine.

When the topicals are combined with the oral supplement Liquid BioCell, we call it the 360 Inside Out Beauty System. I use this dual approach with myself and every one of my patients because it allows me to address the root cause of aging as well as treat environmental concerns on the skin. I created a 360 skincare treatment protocol in my office that books weeks in advance.

You have been voted Best Botox Practice on Long Island for the last three years. What distinguishes you from other practitioners? What has led to your success ?

I’ve been injecting Botox for more than 30 years. I trained to use Botox therapeutically long before it made its cosmetic debut. The initial therapeutic indications were in children with strabismus and spasticity. I was an associate professor of Gross Anatomy at Mt. Sinai Medical School, so I know a lot about facial anatomy of specific muscle shapes and location. My sports medicine kinesiology taught me how to appreciate the beauty of how muscles interact relative to other muscle movement.

I performed and trained doctors in EMG nerve testing - which taught me how to precisely locate the motor points of muscles for injections. This increases my accuracy and decreases pain and any chance of unwanted outcomes. As much as I have mastered the science to injecting Botox and specific advanced techniques that can be learned through experience, inherent artistic talent is necessary to consistently achieve global beautiful natural results on any face. That just can’t be taught.

What does the word power mean to you?

My power is an energized soul of quiet grace, which grows daily from discipline, clarity, confidence, and faith in a place of love and with gratitude. www.drkellyscollagen.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 39

Women K

OF THE MONTH

Kandice M. McCullough

K

andice M.McCullough is the owner of McKay Home Solutions LLC, a construction company providing renovations and new construction in the greater Boston area of Massachusetts. Kandice attended Bunker Hill Community College. She has almost five years’ experience and is responsible for the management and operations, construction, plumbing, renovations, and new construction. Additionally, she offers commercial janitorial services and is a certified COVID-19 disinfection contractor. In her spare time, Kandice enjoys singing, cooking, and fishing.

Kristina N. Hernandez Eddy

ristina N. Hernandez Eddy is the owner of KR1STNA Media, a consulting firm offering strategy in marketing, media, and sales strategies. She is responsible for consulting, business administration, organic growth methods on social media, project management, creativity, printing, advertising, marketing, sales, automation, networking, processes, procedures, and business development. Kristina enjoys travel and networking.

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

Getting my clients to embrace digital marketing is challenging. The digital world we live in constantly changes, and as business leaders, we are all forced to keep up with the

trends. As a marketing and media consultant, it’s important to help others to understand how to properly brand, market, and represent their business and their products and/or services – both online and off.

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

What I come up against the most is that so many women out there are still afraid of unleashing their full potential. While it is normal to face these fears, especially in this scary new COVID-19 world, it’s still not a reason to give up or stop pushing yourself. The goal is always to dig deep and overcome circumstances,

Wynter W. Riddick

W

Owner | McKay Home Solutions LLC

ynter W. Riddick is the owner of B&R Supportive Living, LLC. She oversees the operations of the business and helps clients with MS, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, and neurological disorders live a productive life. Wynter rents rooms for her clients and assists them with all needs. She also helps clients in their own homes. Wynter earned a C.M.A. In her spare time she enjoys being with her friends and family.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I started in the mental health field 40 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

22 years ago, managing group homes for adults with intellectual disabilities. From there I branched out into nursing facilities and later servicing veterans. After realizing my passion was to serve others, I started my own business seven years ago. My business focuses on helping clients who have neurological disorders. My mission is to give the best quality of care to a new generation by implementing technology and using new resources.

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

Owner | KR1STNA Media fear, or anxiety. Everyone has a voice and as women, ours needs to be heard just as much as the next persons.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment is all about encouraging others.

To be able to bring brands to a higher level of understanding and success or to be able to support a growing professional is a powerful move. There are plenty of brands out there facing tough challenges, as people and as professionals. To be able to help them understand their challenges, their creative solutions, and how to bring to life plans that they have in their own dreams is huge. www.kr1stna.com Owner | B&R Supportive Living, LLC My biggest challenge has been learning how to work with a broken healthcare system. The biggest obstacle I’ve faced is advocating for those who can’t advocate for themselves.

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

Some of biggest challenges women face today are equality and equal pay.

We’re not just qualified to do domestic work. We’re educated and equally skilled to do whatever we put our minds to do.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment mean empowering the next generation of women to go further and reach higher. Empowerment is sharing knowledge.

Marilyn Kopasz

M

arilyn Kopasz has been a certified hypnotist for four years with Essential Health & Hypnosis, LLC. She underwent hypnosis for pain management and felt that it was so helpful, she wanted to help others. Using clinical hypnosis and energy psychology techniques, her clients are able to discover that their issues can be resolved and that they are able to lead a happy and healthy life. Marilyn is a Certified Hypnotist from the National Guild of Hypnosis in 2017, has an Advanced Certification for Pain Management from the American School of Clinical Hypnosis in 2018, and an International Certification for Hypnosis from the International Certification Board for Clinical Hypnotists in 2019. In February 2021, she earned the honor of being Board Certified by the International Association of Coun-

Hypnotist | Essential Health & Hypnosis, LLC selors and Therapists. She is an Energy Psychology Coach through the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology in 2019.

Currently, Marilyn is responsible for helping her clients with stress and anxiety issues, chronic pain, performance improvement, sex-related issues, fertility, and parenthood enhancement. Previously, she worked for the U.S. Department of Defense for over 30 years in the Washington, DC area and earned a DoD Meritorious Service Award. During the COVID pandemic, she has been volunteering with the Virginia Department of Health/Medical Reserve Corps to staff the call center and is a COVID vaccination assistant. She firmly believes in

Lea Nour

L

ea Nour is an operations manager with S&L Companies. She helps oversee 14 restaurant locations. Lea has a degree in Hotel Management from Penn State University and has a food safety license.

She speaks four languages: English, Lebanese, Spanish and some French. Lea has over 20 years of restaurant experience and has been with S&L Companies since 2019. She is responsible for developing, opening, and managing restaurants for the company as well as hotel management. In her spare time, she enjoys dancing, speed cars, travel, spending time with family and friends, the beach, and shopping.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I started as an assistant manager in the restaurant business and within six months I was promoted to general manager. After a few years, I became the training general manager and then a district manager. Currently, I’m the operations manager for S&L companies in Florida, which is the greatest company I have ever worked for. My dream was to become a hotelier and have my own hotels, but once I got into the restaurant business, I felt like the sky was the limit.

My goal now is to get to the top and

helping people whenever she can. In her spare time, Marilyn enjoys photography, cruising, and scuba diving.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

Previously, I worked with DoD service personnel returning from war.

Traditional health programs weren’t always helpful, so I learned alternative means of helping.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means sharing a sense of strength by action. Role models can help empower people to achieve greatness, make dreams a reality, and motivate people to go do their best.

EssentialHealthHypnosis.com

Operations Manager | S&L Companies highest position possible.

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

I have faced culture barriers, high turnover rate, employees with poor time management, and have trouble finding and recruiting people with a great work ethic.

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

Our biggest challenges are representation of women, race, ethnicity, women bosses, and the gender pay gap.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment is having power and control over your own life. It is the process of becoming stronger and more confident. It is finding ways to work with and support others. bleedblue.co/florida

Deshra M. Vines-Leak

D

CEO Precious Places LLC

eshra M. Vines-Leak is the CEO of Precious Places LLC, based in Holland, Ohio. Deshra founded the facility in 2008 and has worked with adults with complex behavioral health and medical needs for over 20 years. She founded the organization after recognizing that there were individuals and families seeking quality support and services who didn’t want to rely solely on county board day habilitation sites, developmental centers, and licensed care facilities. Hoping to bridge the gap, Deshra wanted to assist those individuals and families who are most vulnerable, by providing exceptional services in their private home and the community. She is responsible for overseeing the operations of the facility, the staff and faculty, marketing efforts, and liaising with the family and community. Deshra earned a B.S. in Health Service Administration with a minor in Psychology from Baker College of Flint, Michigan and has a M.H.L. from the University of Toledo. In her spare time, she enjoys travel, sports, and being with her family. www.preciousplacesllc.com

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

Jacqueline Jones

J

acqueline Jones is the owner of Crystal Eikcaj™ Skin and Hair Care LLC. With six years’ experience, she is responsible for the overall operations of the skincare business. Jacqueline was diagnosed with alopecia in 1997 and became diabetic in 2012. She suffered from extremely dry skin and hair loss.

She tried many products, but nothing really helped. She experimented with Shea butters and created her own skin and hair care organic products. Jacqueline sells over 35 different products. She is responsible for all product development, design, and distribution. Her flagship product is Refined Shea Moisturizer Total Care which is used by many diabetics, and whipped Shea butter in 25 different fragrances. Jacqueline earned an M.S.

in Administration and IT from Central Michigan University in 1994. She belongs to the Wayne State University Alumni Association. Jacqueline received a patent in 2020 for a fivepiece body wrap.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I got started out of necessity. I had health conditions that affected my hair and skin. After traditional medicine didn’t work, I created my own natural and organic products that restored the moisture, softness, and health back to my hair and skin.

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

Stephanie Mitchko-Beale

S

tephanie Mitchko-Beale is an Emmy Award winning senior level media executive. She is the executive vice president and CTO at Charter Communications. In her current role, she oversees network, mobile, video and software engineering teams, as well as network architecture, technology policy, and emerging technology organizations. Stephanie is a key spokesperson and sought-after presenter. Prior to joining the company, she was CTO and COO of Cadent.

Before joining Cadent, Stephanie was

Y

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

It takes money to start up, operate, and expand a company. Small businesses don’t get the financial backing needed to achieve their goals.

The pandemic has revealed the great disparity that exists in terms of how small businesses are treated vs. big corporations.

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

There is a double standard in how African American women of color are treated compared to minority women in general. Statistics prove that we don’t get a proportionate share of loans, etc., that are available to minority owned small businesses. www.crystaleikcaj.com

Executive Vice President | Charter Communications

the senior vice president of video infrastructure software at Cablevision, where she was responsible for the development of the innovative Multi-Room (cloud-based) DVR system, Video On Demand, and Subscription On Demand platforms.

With more than 20 years of experience, Stephanie is a technology, media, and advanced advertising specialist with a solid record of pioneering evolutionary products. She holds a Certificate from the SCTE-Tuck Executive Leadership

Yejide F. Akinlana

ejide F. Akinlana is a multi-faceted entrepreneur. She is the owner and CEO of We Manifest, Inc., a performance and production company. She has created and produced the all-women showcase series called “D.A.W.T.A.H.Z.” (Directing Artistic Women To Aesthetic Horizons ~ Zenith, the height we aspire to reach). Yejide has facilitated, paneled, and performed for community forums advocating literacy, female reproductive rights, and advocating against the prison industrial complex.

A dynamic performing artist, Yejide is technically trained in multiple dance styles. She has graced many stages including Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Brooklyn Academy of Music, Madison Square Garden, and Club Citta, in Tokyo, Japan. She has performed throughout

Owner | Crystal Eikcaj™ Skin and Hair Care LLC

the U.S., Tokyo, Japan, and Bordeaux, France. Yejide is a wordsmith, formerly known as The Night Queen, who captivates audiences with her word-sound power.

Clubbing since the age of 15 (without drugs or alcohol) has garnered her a respected position as a multicultural dancer and as a master of ceremony in the Hip Hop and House music scenes of New York City.

Yejide is a poignant writer who writes all of her own lyrics. She’s been a contributing writer for several online periodicals and grassroots magazines.

She has also critiqued artist’s projects.

Yejide penned a socio-political column in The Black Track Newspaper. She earned

Program at Dartmouth College and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from New York University-Polytechnic in New York. Stephanie teaches as a guest lecturer at NYU/Stern Graduate School and is a member of the NYU Poly Enterprise Learning Board. She is a member of W.I.C.T. and S.C.T.E. During her career, Stephanie has been awarded a Technical Emmy, a Creative Arts Emmy, and has been named the Top Woman in Technology. In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors, craft projects, and spending time with her family. corporate.charter.com

Owner, CEO | We Manifest, Inc. her B.S. in Criminal Justice from John Jay College and her Paralegal Certificate with Distinction from Long Island University.

Inspired by great music, Yejide is the producer and creative muse behind the Mixcloud podcast CHURCH, and the live Twitch broadcast of The Saturday Nite Dance Party. Yejide grows vegetables and cooks culinary treats for her blog, Mama Wize Cooken. She also grows her own herbs for Balance Wearable Art, her plantbased, vegan, handcrafted body and hair product line. She finds these activities and music therapeutic. Yejide enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren. www.wemanifest.com

Ellen A. Hughes

President, Clinical Process Consultant | Hughes Consulting

E

llen A. Hughes has over 45 years’ experience in the healthcare arena. She has had her own consulting business for the past two years and is a clinical process consultant. Ellen is responsible for consulting in clinical process improvement for Ohio hospitals and risk management/claims adjustment for professional liability for a number of healthcare systems and related companies. She specializes in the culture of change and the sustainability of change in healthcare settings. Ellen focuses on improvement projects, the elimination of HAI’s, patient safety, and organizational effectiveness. She teaches legal principals and risk management for professors, nurses, and defense attorneys at several local colleges. She earned her R.N. at Providence College and her B.S.N. at Bowling Green State University in 1978. Ellen is a member of ASHRM and APIC. Previously, Ellen worked for the Ohio Hospital Association for 12 years. In her spare time, she enjoys writing and RVing.

Cheryl A. Jones

C

heryl A. Jones is the owner of Revive It Cleaning Service. She oversees the operations of the company and provides commercial and residential cleaning services.

She is responsible for the staff, employee oversight, supplies, safety, marketing, new business development, and giving estimates. Cheryl earned an A.A. from Remington College in 1996.

Previously, she served as a medical assistant for 20 years. In her spare time, Cheryl enjoys cooking.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I got started in healthcare because of the admiration I had for the women in

Owner | Revive It Cleaning Service my family who were nurses.

Being able to see them care for others and lift their spirits at the same time helped me see my purpose in life.

I’ve always had a passion for helping others. Being a healthcare professional was the perfect career for me.

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

It’s challenging helping families deal with the passing of their loved ones and learning how to give them the right support. Another challenge I faced was getting past my fears of creating a cleaning company for the home healthcare industry

Karen J. McCants

K

aren J. McCants is the owner of KJM Promoting, an advertising and marketing agency. Karen has over 21 years’ experience. She provides advertising, marketing, and promotional services for companies utilizing their logos on clothing and other items. Karen oversees the operations and management of the company. A professional actor, she recently portrayed a GM employee in the movie, “No Sudden Move,” directed by Steven Soderbergh (HBO, 2021). She was in “Black Mafia Family,” produced by 50 Cent (STARZ), and she performed as one of the Vandellas in the play “The Vandellas,” directed and written by Robbie Taylor. Karen portrayed a supervisor in the movie, “Rec Man,” directed by

Month

WOMEN OF THE

Henry Wolfe III, and she played a functional heroin addict in the movie “First Lady,” produced by Dennis Reed II. Karen also acts in many commercials. She earned a B.S. in Marketing from the University of Phoenix. She has a Certificate from the Detroit Repertory Theatre and a Certificate in Voice from the Axis Music Academy. Karen was recognized by the Women Informal Network in 2015. She is a brand ambassador for Oprah Winfrey in “The Life You Want Weekend.” Karen is a custom clothing representative for Peter Balani’s Custom Clothing. Karen served

to help people preserve their homes.

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

Some of the biggest challenges for women today are being treated and seen as true equals in the corporate industry.

We have built a strong foundation, and often our creatives ideas have become thriving contributions to our communities with little or no recognition.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment is the ability to take all of the challenges and obstacles that you have overcome to build your dream.

It also means to share the wisdom and knowledge you acquired along the way and see another woman discover her inner power.

Owner, Actress | KJM Promoting as a project manager for the President Barack Obama’s Health Information Technology Initiative Program at Wayne County Community College.

In her spare time, she enjoys nutrition, family, church activities, community activities, helping others, and nature photography.

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

COVID-19 changed the world regarding how people interacted with family, jobs, coworkers, friends, going out in public, and health care. The world had to learn a new way of living and working together in a safe way.

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

VICTORIA WIECK

V

ictoria Wieck grew up in a sleepy coastal village in South Korea, surrounded by abundant natural beauty. One of her favorite activities was to watch the stunning sunset from her home, wondering what lay beyond the horizon. She would ask her mother endless questions about the world outside of her small town. Her mother read her stories and taught her how to read, but her curiosity knew no bounds. At school, she excelled in reading, writing, and art.

In 1972, her father moved the family to America, where he felt they would have greater oppor44 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

tunities to follow their dreams.

Immediately after arriving in Los Angeles, Victoria had to adapt to a new culture, learn a new language, and make new friends.

During those years, she often communicated through drawing when she didn’t know the right English word to use. Immigrant life as a young teen was difficult, but she embraced it with hope and optimism.

Victoria’s dream was to study literature or art in college, but her parents urged her to consider business instead. After making so many sacrifices for their children (giving up a comfortable life in South Korea and starting over) they wanted to be sure that their children would end up with secure jobs. She worked full time while completing a B.S. in Economics from UCLA and a M.B.A. from USC. After graduate school, Victoria was offered several jobs in New York but took a marketing job at a jewelry manufacturing company in Los Angeles to stay closer to her family. Much to her surprise, she ended up using her artistic talents a lot more than she ever imagined. Believing that there was a market for high quality, stylish jewelry at affordable prices, she formed her own company in 1989 on a shoestring budget. Over the next three decades, her jewelry career allowed her to travel to many places she’d only read about ever since she was a young girl. Victoria’s jewelry designs are inspired by her extensive travels where

she soaked in local history, cultures, and architecture.

Today, she is a successful jewelry designer with her own TV show on Shop HQ, connecting with millions of viewers regularly.

Over the span of 30 years, Victoria has traveled millions of miles around the world and finds herself more curious than ever. She is an avid reader of thrillers, mysteries, science fiction, historical fiction, and self-improvement books. One day, her husband encouraged her to write a novel about her experiences traveling around the world, and the various human conditions that exist.

When Victoria’s not on TV with her latest collections, she’s either writing or reading. Her first novel is called “Shattered Sky,” which is a science fiction/ young adult thriller about a young girl who sets out on a mission to save her kidnapped sister, and experiences sacrifice, betrayal, and love in a post WWIII world, where survival necessities are scarce.

Victoria is currently writing a how-to book, “Million Dollar Hobbies, How to Turn your Idea into a Multi-million Dollar Business,” which is scheduled to be released in 2022. This book will serve up a healthy dose of inspiration based on her unique journey, as well as proven methods of starting a business without taking unnecessary risks. Victoria has also started the Million Dollar Hobbies podcast to help others turn their passion into profits.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 45

Story

Jewelry Designer

COVER

As a successful entrepreneur, what is one important strategy that has helped you grow your business?

Think about where the business is going, not where the business has been. Consumer demand and behavior change. If you are mostly reacting to what happened last month, you’ll be playing the catch-up game for a long time.

What or who inspired you to become a jewelry designer?

My parents have encouraged me to follow my heart instead of the money.

Even though I loved the idea of becoming a jewelry designer, I didn’t think I could be successful at it. I worked in corporate for a few years with decent pay but wasn’t happy. I decided to take a leap of faith and start a small jewelry company catering to women who yearned for beautiful and original designs.

What advice can you share on building a large and loyal social media following for businesses?

Don’t focus on the number of followers so much. Focus on the quality of people you are attracting to your circle.

I have a system that I’ve developed: Share relevant information (how-to tips, inspirational quotes, fun activities).

Leave your ego at home. Elevate (share tips, and information about you and your products), amplify, and pay dividends (if you’re sharing a new way or a better way to do something, you’ll find higher quality followers). Treat everyone on social media the same way you want to be treated. Don’t make every post about your products or ask people to buy something. Switch it up and post motivational quotes, useful tips, and inspirations behind your products or services. You can also ask for opinions by conducting an online poll, or have people vote on two or three options.

Tell us about your podcast, Million Dollar Hobbies.

I started the Million Dollar Hobbies podcast to help others turn their passion into profits. I wanted to inspire and encourage everyone who dreams of creating something of their own to act in regard 46 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

to their own future. I share all that I’ve learned through my journey of going from a penniless immigrant to building a $500 million business. I have awesome guests who share their expertise as well.

By the way, if anyone wants their business ideas tested or has a unique journey, they can apply simply by going to www. milliondollarhobbies.com.

You have an upcoming book of the same name, “Million Dollar Hobbies” in the works. What motivated you to write this?

I’ve heard that something like 70% of Americans dream of owning their own business someday. I wanted to help all those who want more free time and more emotional fulfillment out of their life to do just that. The Million Dollar Hobbies is a true “how-to” book that gives the reader a glimpse of how I built my business in seven simple steps. I wrote the book so that the reader can take action immediately after reading the book with real simple tools that don’t cost a lot of money. It is my hope that this book creates a million millionaires!

What advice would you give your younger self?

Look for help from others who have walked just a few steps before you. You will learn a lot even from those who failed in their journey because they’ve seen the unfortunate detours, felt the storms, and may have fallen off a cliff they didn’t see. It will help you greatly to simply avoid the costly mistakes they’ve made. Also, whenever you can, find a few like-minded people who share similar emotional peaks and valleys.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is a neutral word to me. It depends on who has it and how it’s used.

What is important is to understand that each of us has the power to help heal and cause change. If we use it wisely, we can change the world. victoriawieck.com www.milliondollarhobbies.com

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RISING

K I K A

Entrepreneur and Franchisor Kika Stretch Studios

W I S E

Star

A

s one of the country’s few African American franchisors and the nation’s youngest female franchisor, Kika Wise is building a fitness empire with Kika Stretch Studios. Kika is an expert franchisor who was able to pivot her business this year and find success by opening another location. Having franchised her business with 13 locations nationwide, she has positioned herself and her unique fitness techniques in stretching as an ultimate source of fitness and health. She has been running her own business for over a decade and is dedicated to helping other African Americans become entrepreneurs and learn the business and art of franchising. A favorite of athletes and any yoga enthusiast, Kika is quickly becoming a go-to figure in health, and her growing studios are quickly becoming must haves in fitness. Despite the global health pandemic, Kika was able to open another Kika Stretch Studio in Calabasas, California this year.

A former pro dancer turned expert franchisor, Kika she created a signature one-of-a-kind approach to stretching called the Kika Method®, which is a gentle and guided form of stretching that has several benefits for clients including increased vitality, alleviating stress, experiencing less pain, and sleeping better. Kika’s studios practice guided stretching through her trademarked technique, but as a wellness guru, Kika can also provide tips on how to stretch on your own at home.

What motivated you to turn from your career as a pro dancer to being a franchisor and wellness educator?

My son was my motivation. At the time he was six months old. I wanted to be involved in his life, while providing for him.

Explain to us what the Kika Method® and the Kika Stretch Age® are all about.

Imagine lying on a mat and having someone gently stretch out your entire body for you. We release tension that’s been trapped inside of your body for years. The Kika Method® is a measurable way to determine how old you are flexibility-wise. We measure you before and after your session.

For people who have an established business and are considering franchising, what are some of the most important steps needed to move forward?

You must have systems in order to franchise. Your business must also thrive without you being there. Delegation is key.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business that you would recommend others consider?

One strategy that has helped me grow my business is to stay true to who you are. Find what makes you unique and build your brand from that. Let your unique talents shine through your brand.

With so many gyms and other studios closing during lockdown, how have you been able to pivot your business to keep it afloat and even open a new location?

We are a one-on-one studio and hold our stretching sessions in private rooms. Our clients have felt comfortable coming to stretch. We also have helped people thrive, move, and stay healthy during the pandemic.

With your studios becoming a must-have in fitness for athletes and yoga enthusiasts, what are your future plans for expanding your brand?

We have an aggressive plan to add 15 more locations this year, adding hubs of pain relief and tension relief to people across the country. kikastretchstudios.com 48 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

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1646 SE 3rd Court | Deerfield, FL 33441 www.Century21.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 49

Women S

OF THE MONTH

Debra Lynn Vine

Dental Assistant | US Army Dentac

D

ebra Lynn Vine is a dental assistant with the US Army Dentac program. She is responsible for assisting the dentist with fillings and other procedures, general dentistry, and providing dental hygiene and education to patients. Debra earned an A.S. in Healthcare Administration from the Colorado Technical University. She belongs to the Dental Assistant Association. In her spare time, Debra enjoys travel and her grandchildren.

Samantha Pucci

amantha Pucci is the vice president of Richard R. Pucci & Associates, Inc. She has been with the company for eight years and has served as the vice president for the past four years. Samantha is responsible for project estimation and bidding, project planning, contracts, and change orders. She serves as the company’s safety supervisor and representative and specializes in hospitals, pharmaceuticals, and commercial building.

She earned her B.A. in Business Administration with a concentration in Entrepreneurship from Muhlenberg College and her M.B.A. from Saint Joseph’s University in 2008. She is OSHA 30 Certified and holds other

Toni Sutherland

T

oni Sutherland is the founder and principal of Alta Investment Group. With over 25 years of experience, Toni is responsible for wealth management, real estate investing, and providing financial services for her clients. The company’s goal is principal preservation with income and growth.

She actively tries to create financial stability and security, financial independence, and give her clients peace of mind regarding their financial 50 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Vice President | Richard R. Pucci & Associates, Inc.

certifications as well.

Samantha belongs to the National Association of Women in Construction.

In her spare time, she enjoys tennis, golf, and cooking.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I was inspired to enter the construction industry by my father.

From a young age I watched him grow his construction company from the ground up. After gaining experience on my own, I chose to start working alongside my father- traversing the new norms of construction.

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

One of the biggest challenges I

have faced was navigating my way in a predominantly male industry.

Breaking through that barrier and being an equal took time. I learned that with knowledge comes respect, and with respect comes the power to create change in the workplace.

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

Equal pay for equal work is a problem woman have always faced.

I believe lack of self-confidence and the fear of speaking up or speaking out in the workplace is an issue woman need to address. Not doing so only allows for the continuation of stereotypical and socially accepted ‘norms’ that have plagued our ability to grow in the workplace. pucciandassociates.comc

Founder, Principal | Alta Investment Group future. Previously, Toni became an independent registered representative with Emerson Equity LLC, after a career with American Express Financial Advisors, and Smith Barney, a division of Citigroup. At Smith Barney, she was part of a corporate group which specialized in stock option programs for various corporations such as Microsoft and

Home Depot. She holds a California Real Estate License in addition to Securities Licenses 7, 63, and 65. Toni also holds a Life Agent’s License.

She is on the board of the nonprofit Wet Art organization. In her spare time, Toni enjoys travel, interior design, reading, and gardening. www.altainvestments.com

Dorothy K. Lane

D

orothy K. Lane is the CEO of Inspiring Minds Behavior Business Consultant Coach.

With eight years’ experience, she is responsible for the overall operations and management of the company. Dorothy specializes in business coaching and consulting. She also advocates for parents who have children with disabilities. She helps with IEP’s and collaborates with the state foster care program, helping to place children in proper homes. Dorothy attended college.

A woman who wears many hats, Dorothy also serves as a real estate investor. She is getting ready for the state test to be a Licensed Realtor.

She is the operator of a childcare daycare center, Kid’z Stars DayCare and also has a private care patient.

Diana Ceneus

D

iana Ceneus is a scientist and clinical researcher. With over 15 years in the science and healthcare field, Diana is currently a sleep researcher at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, working together with NYU School of Medicine on the effect of slow wave sleeve (SWS) characteristics on amyloid burden (a genetic marker of Alzheimer’s disease) risk amongst cognitively normal African Americans versus Caucasians. She was recently offered another research position at Montefiore-Einstein Cancer Center for Care. Previously, Diana served as a front line essential COVID-19 tester and has tested thousands of patients from all ethnic backgrounds and all age groups and continues to do so as needed. Diana earned an A.S. in Biology at Union County College, her B.B.S. at Montclair State University minoring in Biochemistry in 2013, and an M.A. in a Social Work/Public Health in 2016. She will be pursu-

CEO | Inspiring Minds Behavior Business Consultant Coach She advocates for services for people and educates parents and family caregivers. Dorothy addresses the court system and helps individuals who have been accused of a crime or have been incarcerated.

She also helps those with health issues, specialize needs, disabilities, and mental health issues. Her foremost responsibilities are serving as a financial business advisor and consulting coach. Dorothy is preparing to launch a children’s financial business ownership program.

Previously, she ran a foster care home.

In her spare time she enjoys reading and Modern dance.

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

It is imperative that policies change through legislation regarding disabled people’s rights, their families, and caregivers.

There are many grandparents raising their grandchildren with disabilities and mental illnesses. It’s time to stand for equality, especially in regard to status, rights, and opportunities. Everyone needs to be treated with respect.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means being able to become one with yourself, to rise through difficult times, and not letting your past hold you back from your future.

Clinical Research Coordinator, Sleep Researcher | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/NYU School of Medicine COVID-19 Tester | BioReference Laboratories/Fast Med ing her Ph.D. in Public Health in the near future.

Diana has worked in the nonprofit community for over 15 years.

She currently serves as a worship leader at Christ Church in Montclair, New Jersey. She has also been very active with Eben-Ezer Baptist Church, serving as their youth leader, worship leader, dance teacher, and creative director running fashion shows at their yearly banquets whenever possible. She coordinates

outreach programs, traveled on a mission trip to Haiti in 2016, and hopes to return to finish what she started very soon. Diana also volunteers at the yearly fundraising gala for worldwide orphans. Previously, she served as a clinical coordinator with the NJ MENTOR Network and was a family liaison with Montclair State University/EECO AmeriCorps. In her spare time, Diana enjoys volunteering and fundraising for nonprofits and orphans, outdoor activities, and playing with her dog, Alfalfa.

Ruth Parks

Nurse, Owner | Presto Vocational Institute Owner | Jon Jon’s BBQ uth Parks is the owner of the Presto Vocational Institute, which is a vocational training institute based in Los Altos, California. A nurse with over 20 years of experience, Ruth is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the institute, training nursing assistants, LVN’s, RN’s, pharmacy technicians, home health aides, and phlebotomists. She earned an A.S.N. from West Medical College in 2004 and has a Certification in Holistic Health. Additionally, Ruth owns a childcare center and a restaurant, Jon Jon’s BBQ. In her spare time, she enjoys making organic soap and skincare products, holistic drinks, and essential oils.

R

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

Donna A. Horton

D

onna A. Horton is the owner of Chesapeake Highlands Memorial Gardens of Port Republic, Maryland, and has spent her entire life in the funeral industry.

A native of Washington, Donna was raised in the mortuary business. Her father was a funeral director and he and her mother built their own business, Horton’s Funeral Home, in Washington, DC. A Registered Cemetarian, Donna is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the cemetery, the maintenance and upkeep of the facility and grounds, liaising with and assisting families with preparations and burial services. She

Licensed Cemetarian | Chesapeake Highlands Memorial Gardens received a Certificate of Achievement in Land Management and Grounds Operation from I.C.C.F.A. and is on the advisory board of the University of the District of Columbia Mortuary Science program. Donna is a member of the board of directors for Horton’s Funeral Home.

In her spare time, she enjoys being with her family.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

My parents, R.N. Horton, and Julia Horton started R.N. Horton Company Morticians Inc. (Horton’s Funeral Home) located in Washington, D.C. in 1936. At the age of 16, I started

Nyalla D. Schwartz

N

yalla D. Schwartz is the owner of Financial Fitness Education Inc. With over 25 years’ experience, she is an expert on educating clients regarding their finances through personal finance and debt management courses.

She earned a M.B.A. from Pacific Southern University in 1986. She is a member of I.W.L.A. Among her many career highlights, Nyalla was responsible for securing contracts with Central Michigan University to endorse the personal finance and debt management courses.

She secured contracts with Bridgewater Interiors, Inc. in Michigan, and

Owner | Financial Fitness Education Inc.

Alabama, and she secured contracts with the Michigan Housing Development Authorities to offer the personal finance and debt management course with Freddie Mac and Fifth Third Bank for first time home buyers.

Nyalla secured contracts with various automotive companies both in California and Michigan. She has certified over 200 qualified individuals to teach the personal finance and debt management course at all entry levels. She developed various deliveries of

Sharon Georgina Jones Designer | Exwuisitedesigns

S

haron Georgina Jones is a designer with Exwuisitedesigns.

With three years’ experience, Sharon is responsible for overall design services from start to finish including interior and residential design (by appointment). She provides all forms of design including traditional, contemporary, and modern. Sharon works with her clients to ensure that they find the exact items, colors, finishes, and fabrics needed to complete their home. She earned an A.A. In her spare time, Sharon enjoys swimming and horseback riding.

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

driving the hearse for funerals. At 20, I had moved on to doing office work and serving as a bookkeeper. I was not interested in embalming, so I settled on just being the records/bookkeeper for the company. In early 2019 my brother was notified about a cemetery that was up for sale, which we then purchased, and I finally found my niche. It felt like that was where I belonged, so I became a Licensed Cemetarian.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment is the ability to refine gender roles. It’s being able to walk into a room full of people who want to know the key to your success not because you are a woman but because you own a successful business. www.chesapeakehighlands.com

the personal finance and debt management course ranging from nine hours to 72 hours to include E-learning and interactive CD-ROMs both in Spanish and English.

Additionally, Nyalla teaches at risk high school students in the Detroit public schools. She writes syllabi for community colleges and is the author of the “Financial Fitness” Handbook.

She manages and is a mentor to artists, athletes, and business professionals to help them reach their fullest potential.

Nyalla advises and counsels clients regarding their career in the entertainment industry for the purpose of developing and enhancing their artistic value. In 2005, she received the National Leadership Award from the Business Advisory Council- Honorary Chairman Business Advisory Council in Washington, DC. In 2010 she was recognized by Cambridge Who’s Who for demonstrating dedication, leadership, and excellence in business management. Currently, Nyalla is fundraising for Save the Children. In her spare time, she enjoys her grandchildren, travel, and mentoring children.

Electronic Engineer (Retired) Chicago Board of Education

B

arbara Koenig-Pfannkuche is retired after 40 years from her position as an electronic engineer. She spent most of her career with the Chicago Board of Education teaching electricity, electronics, and appliance and computer repair. She has also taught electronics engineering to college students and inmates in the jail system. Barbara specialized in drafting and design. Born in Chicago, Illinois, she earned an A.S. in Electronics from DeVry University in 1957.

She was honored as the first woman to attend and graduate from that University. She was the first female permitted to take electric workshop and shop courses in her high school. Barbara received a scholarship to the Art Institute in Chicago. She obtained a B.S. in Industrial Education Electronics from Chicago State University in 1975. Over the course of her career, Barbara has worked for Pierce Wire Recorder, Chicago Aerial Industries, Hammond Organ, Union Thermal Electric, Victor Adding Machines, C.P. Clare, and E.P.L. In the 1950’s, Barbara was a model. During her career, she engineered cameras for government planes. She also helped work on the early fax machine before transitioning into education. In her retirement she enjoys travel, farming, gardening, and snow skiing.

Monica Burneikis

M

Founding Attorney Burneikis Law

onica Burneikis is the founding attorney at Burneikis Law, a plaintiffs-side personal injury law firm based in California. Monica is dedicated to representing victims who have been injured at the hands of others and specializes in cases involving catastrophic personal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and wrongful death. She handles cases arising out of a wide variety of circumstances, including motor vehicle, pedestrian, bus, bicycle and motorcycle accidents, ride-share accidents, drownings, burn/fire cases, dog bite/tramples, trip/ slip-and-falls, and cases involving governmental tort claims.

Monica earned her B.A. in Political Science from San Jose State University in 2001, and her J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law in 2005.

With over 15 years of experience as a trial lawyer, Monica has a proven track record for success both in and out of the courtroom. She is skilled in all aspects of civil litigation and has achieved several multi-million-dollar results for her clients. She has an extensive list of awards and accolades, all of which she attributes to the trust her clients have placed in her to advocate and pursue justice on their behalf.

Burneikis Law also appreciatively pays referral fees to licensed attorneys in accordance with the California Rules of Professional Conduct. The firm offers free consultations and handles all cases on a contingency basis. burneikislaw.com

WOMEN OF THE Anna Ferrante Contractor, Owner | ATF Design Group

W

Month

Barbara Koenig-Pfannkuche

ith over 30 years of experience, Anna Ferrante is a contractor and the owner of ATF Design Group, which is a woman owned family business specializing in the design and construction of kitchens and bathrooms. Anna attended the Westchester Business Institute in 1989. She belongs to N.A.R.I. and was featured in articles in the NARI Magazine and Home Magazine. Anna is responsible for the overall operations, marketing, and management of the company. She has received two awards for kitchen and bath design, and one award for marketing. In the future, she hopes to open another showroom and inspire women to do things on their own. In her spare time, Anna enjoys spending time with her three sons, travel, puzzles, and designing. www.mykitchenandbathdesigns.com

Shawana Russell CEO Perfection Transportation LLC

S

hawana Russell is the CEO of Perfection Transportation LLC, a transportation freight service which is leased to Hirschbach Motor Lines. With almost 20 years of experience, Shawana is responsible for the overall operations, management, marketing, and all transportation and delivery services. She began her career as an independent contractor with Hirschbach Motor Lines February 26th, 2020.

Her first transportation job entailed driving a school bus, which she still drives today. Shawana enjoys being a mother figure to the children she drives, and she helps to ensure that their days start off with positivity. Previously, Shawana was a team company driver with CRST Van Expedited, a company driver for 4H Transportation Services LLC, a school bus driver for Villani Bus Company, and a company driver with Safra Logistics. She is passionate about driving and enjoys meeting people both professionally and personally. She provides transportation services for both refrigerated and dry goods. Shawana attended both the University of Phoenix and Pierce College.

She is a member of the National Technical Honor Society. She enjoys reading, writing poetry, listening to music, helping others, being with her family, being an active participant with her twins’ virtual schooling and with their MCJROTC, coloring, playing card games, playing board and video games with her twins, and exercising.

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

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Anjel B Hartwell A

njel B Hartwell, known as the wealthy life mentor, is an internationally known artist, author, and evolutionary alchemist. Honored as a “Movement To Watch” award winner and considered one of America’s premier experts, she has appeared multiple times in the major media and is the creator, executive producer, host of the 2020 People’s Choice Award Winning and Apple #1 Internationally Ranked Wickedly Smart Women Podcast. Anjel is consistently hired to consult with high achieving leaders.

What motivated you to start your Wickedly Smart Women podcast?

About a year in on my first show, Men On Purpose Podcast, I was called to return to my roots of serving women. I became inspired to start a second show to put women back in the spotlight.

What are your top 5 tips for new podcasters?

Be clear on the following: 1) Revenue generation requirements; 2) Business model so it serves your lifestyle; 3) Transformational high-end offer and enrollment process; 4) Perfect prospects for your offer; 5) Theme/show messaging that attracts perfect prospects.

Tell us about your new book, “Be Heard By Millions & Live Your Destiny – A Creative Age Leaders Guide to Speak, Sell, Serve & Succeed.”

I’m so excited. It’s #1 as the new release in three categories. This book teaches exactly what I did to create multiple millions in revenue as a single mom using virtual speaking as my main method for creating clients worldwide.

Artist, Author, Evolutionary Alchemist

How do you assist your clients to remove energy blocks and patterns?

I employ nearly 40 years of wisdom gained in the entrepreneurial space to offer practical strategies to my clients, along with 20 years of energy mastery and neuroshamanic spiritual technologies to help my clients achieve quantum shifts in personal empowerment.

Why did you create ArtWalk Nashua and FIREfest?

I had my own art gallery opening and was inspired to make my city (Nashua, New Hampshire) a destination location for the arts. ArtWalk came first. After seeing the success it garnered, the idea came in the next year for FireFest.

As an entrepreneur, what is one thing you do consistently that you recommend others do?

Take plenty of time in nature to recharge. Remember that you are not here simply to be a cog in a machine.

Put your wellbeing at the top of the priority list, not last in line for attention and nourishment.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power means the ability to create whatever I am inspired to with ease and joy. It means I have plenty of resources and the capacity to bring my visions into life and enroll others to join me in the fun. thewealthylifementor.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 57

Victoria Vives Khuong

V

Author

ictoria Vives Khuong is the international bestselling author of “In a Matter of Seconds,” and host of the Divine Sexuality podcast. She is also a healing and shamanism teacher and spiritual leader, having helped over four thousand women around the world access greater fulfillment in their lives. Victoria emphasizes divine sexuality as the most powerful philosophy she teaches because it is the foundation of femininity and womanhood. It addresses the core issues that modern women face in the competitive, fast paced arena of the modern world.

In the wake of the powerful positive changes that feminism has brought to human rights in the last century, women have been excelling in the corporate, business, and political world like never before. Now, a new series of challenges threaten women’s connection to freedom, happiness, and deep fulfillment due to a disconnect with femininity and the shortage of balanced feminine role models.

Victoria teaches powerful and practical methods to overcome these new challenges, helping women reconnect with their femininity and achieve a level of love, intimacy, sensuality, and purpose like never before.

How were you able to overcome the hardships of your past to discover your true calling as a herald of truth?

After fighting and struggling, I focused on my feminine intuition and insight instead, a core concept within divine sexuality, and found answers that were empowering and healing. Sharing this wisdom with other women was not a choice, but a calling.

What is divine sexuality?

It is a framework and lifestyle that transforms the modern perception of sexuality and femininity from a disembodied, political, and commercial issue into a gateway to personal growth, ecstasy in relationships, profound intimacy, and empowerment.

What is your favorite quote and why?

“Know thyself.” This Delphic maxim is the key to happiness and fulfilment.

In my work with femininity, it applies to being a woman. It’s too easy to lose sight of who we are as women and where our power lies.

What is one thing you want people to know about you?

Femininity is often equated with weakness, passiveness, and submission, but this is actually a misrepresentation of the feminine. I explore all sides of femininity from the nurturer to the warrioress, through healing and sexuality, and even stunts and martial arts.

Tell us about your podcast, Divine Sexuality.

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Photographer: Percebal FantasistoryArt Fashion design exclusively handmade by: a.a. antonio aguado costura

The Divine Sexuality podcast addresses issues that affect women daily but are seldom talked about in depth, like having career success but still dealing with debilitating body image and self-esteem challenges. Topics include sustainable romance, passion, and having an enriching sex life.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is the ability to affect change in oneself and the world. For us women, it starts by embracing the power of the feminine and discarding disempowering beliefs about it. It is time to rediscover our feminine power and reclaim it. victoriavives.com

Owner, Stylist Ambiance Salon

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ith over 25 years in the beauty industry, Alison Artz is extremely passionate about her craft. As the owner and a stylist with Ambiance Salon and Spa, she specializes in hair color and makeup. She has a Certificate in Cosmetology from the John Louis School of Beauty. Alison is responsible for the operations and management of the salon, including ordering and researching products.

She oversees a staff of 25, hires and trains stylists, supervises the managers, and is responsible for scheduling.

Alison serves as an educator for color companies and distributors. The salon is a Mondays at Racine Charter Salon, providing specialized services for clients who are going through cancer treatment. The salon provides free salon and spa services monthly.

Prior to owning the salon, Alison worked in some of Madison Avenue’s top salons in New York City. She has also had the opportunity to be an educator for some of the leading color companies, and has been involved in launching color lines, color reformulation, and organizing major hair shows. In addition to specializing in hair color, Alison is also a makeup artist. Her work has been seen on television and was recently included in Sophisticated Weddings magazine.

In her spare time, Alison enjoys visiting art museums, hiking, skiing, visiting the mountains, and being with her family.

Month

Alison Artz

WOMAN OF THE

How did you get started in your field/industry?

My dream was to be a colorist on Madison Avenue in New York City. I studied art and design, but hair color and makeup was always my passion. I started working in salons on weekends while I was still in beauty school.

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

It was difficult originally finding a salon that would help further my education and help me grow as a colorist. I found that I got stuck in the first few salons I worked in. It took some time to find the right fit.

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

As women we wear a lot of hats, and there is a lot expected of us. These expectations often prevent us from asking for help when we need it. Finding balance and setting boundaries are challenges for me personally.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

When you are at the top of your game, reach down and help somebody up. When you are down and out, reach your hand up and ask for help.

That is what empowerment is- community and support. theambiancesalon.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 59

Isabel Dominguez de Haro

Founder, CEO ADH/art, LLC dba Dominguez de Haro Art Gallery

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sabel Dominguez de Haro grew up in Granada, Spain and is the daughter of Master Artist Antonio Dominguez de Haro. She is the founder and CEO of ADH/ art, LLC dba Dominguez de Haro Art Gallery, located in the Four Seasons Hotel, Miami. Isabel was educated in Madrid, Spain prior to moving to the U.S. to attend college. She received her B.A. in Finance from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton and earned her Executive MBA in Finance at the University of Miami. She is currently enrolled at Sotheby’s Institute of Art in New York for her M.A. in Fine and Decorative Art and Design. Previously, Isabel had a career in finance, serving as the finance director at Goodwill Industries, Miami, where she oversaw accounting for all five divisions of the company. She is also a real estate agent for Coldwell Banker Realty in the Miami area.

Five years ago, Isabel made the unique shift from finance to the arts, when she opened her art gallery in Miami, introducing her father’s artwork to the U.S. market. While growing up, she was surrounded by the beauty of the underwater world which was captured by her father in his paintings. Antonio Dominguez de Haro would scuba dive daily to view the beauty of the ocean and sea life. Isabel’s vision is to allow collectors and everyday people in the U.S. to experience the beauty of her father’s artwork which is the “lens” to the underwater world.

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What makes Domínguez de Haro Art Gallery unique?

The Dominguez de Haro Art Gallery only exhibits the artwork of Antonio Dominguez de Haro. The gallery allows local residences and hotel guests who visit Miami to experience the beauty of the underwater world capture by the master artist from Spain. Since opening the gallery five years ago, I have had VIP parties each year, and a special collaboration with the New World Symphony and Brioni where the evening included exhibiting artwork, the New World Symphony entertaining the 200 guests with a concert, and a silent auction by Brioni, with the sale and proceeds of the artwork being donated to the symphony.

How has your Executive MBA and over ten years’ experience in the financial industry contributed to the success of your art gallery?

Receiving an Executive MBA allowed me to create a platform and solid foundation of growth and profitability at the gallery. It allows me to think both strategically and tactically as I seek to capture the market share within the art industry.

What strategies do you use to make sure your art clients’ needs are met?

No client is alike. My clients have a variety of requirements when they purchase artwork.

This includes many variables including price points, whether they want to purchase an original artwork or a giclée print, size requirements, placement in their home, and the actual scenery and color pallet which captures their imagination. Either I personally visit each client’s home and work with them, or I create a digital rendering of the artwork for them to see exactly how the artwork will look on their wall.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is having the ability to act when it matters most. It is accomplishing activities while having a meaningful impact. On a personal level, I enjoy acquiring tools through education and believe in the ongoing learning process which helps me stay adaptable during changing trends. The 2020 and 2021’s global pandemic has made me realize even more how important adaptability must be. It is important to maximize our ability and take effective action today and at all times. dominguezdeharo.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 61

Women EmP.O.W.E.R.ing

Women

Whether receiving an award, networking, promoting another company, or just having lunch, let’s support one another.

We Are More Powerful Together.

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

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER TEAM

Marilyn C. Stefans Certified Financial Planner, Federally Authorized Tax Practitioner Wealth Advisory Associates and Summit Tax Advisors

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arilyn C. Stefans’ income tax and small business accounting firm was established in 1978. Upon receiving the CFP designation in 1992, investment service retirement planning was added to the practice. Marilyn’s passion for working with families to pursue their financial success has resulted in strong relationships with long term clients. Multi-generations have come to her for her expertise in tax matters and financial planning. Her firms, Wealth Advisory Associates and Summit Tax Advisors, work together to provide financial strategies for all stages of life. Marilyn holds an M.B.A. in Finance and Banking from Adelphi University.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

As a science major in college, my initial career was as a computer programmer. I enjoyed preparing my own tax returns and began preparing returns for friends and family. This developed into a substantial tax practice while still pursuing my career in technology and finance in corporate America.

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

The glass ceiling in the corporate world. This was the reason I took a different path. I obtained my securities registrations and Certified Financial Planner® designation. I then offered market investment services to my tax clients. It is challeng-

ing but exciting since I had no formal marketing experience.

What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed?

Cement your image as a competent professional person. Keep gender out of it. You are a professional who happens to be a female. You are not a female who happens to be a professional. When men and women have the first impression of you as a competent professional, gender is much less important.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Have a strong self-image and don’t be intimidated by others. My parents taught me to be strong and self-reliant. www.wealthadvisoryassoc.com

*Registered Representative offering securities and advisory services through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, member FINRA/SIPC, a broker/dealer and registered investment advisor. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity. Law and Tax services are offered through Stefans Law Group and Summit Tax Advisors located at 137 Woodbury Road, Woodbury, NY 11797

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Donna M. Stefans Founder, Estate and Elder Law Attorney | Stefans Law Group PC President | Summit Tax Advisors, Inc.

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onna M. Stefans is an estate and elder law attorney, investment advisor representative, tax agent, and mother of two who consistently makes time for others with special needs. As the founder and lead estate and elder law attorney at Stefans Law Group PC, Donna has over 24 years of experience in elder law, estate planning, retirement income planning, special needs planning, Medicaid optimization, income tax, asset management, and

capital investment. This gives her the ability to create and maintain holistic life-care plans for clients - from birth to legacy. She is an Accredited Investment Fiduciary and president of Summit Tax Advisors Inc., a full service personal, business, trust accounting, income tax, and consulting practice. As an investment advisor representative with Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Donna has the experience, knowledge, and commitment to help her clients establish a successful strategy to help pursue financial success.

Donna is licensed to practice law in New York and Florida. She is the vice chair of the New York State Bar Association, Elder Law section, Financial Planning and Investment Committee, and is a member of the

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I was a trained singer, dancer, and actress in New York City as a child and teenager. In high school, I realized this was not a financially sound option. I saw my mother with her MBA CFP degrees and realized I wanted to join her practice. I earned my finance degree and broker’s license before I even graduated college.

What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed?

Educate yourself. Have a mentor for inspiration, support, and advice. Build a network of people who you can relate to, especially those who you can learn from. The stronger your connections of trust and respect, the better and more fulfilling your career will be.

What do you feel are some of the pros and cons working with your mother?

The pros and cons of working with my mother are heavily weighted in the pros. We are a mother/daughter team that lives by the theme of women empowering women. I have a lifetime mentor that always has my best interest in mind. I have been learning from my mother since the day I was born, and it continues today. I can’t ask for any better of a teacher than that. My learning has been by her example. We have full implicit trust in each other because we are not only business partners,

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, National Academy of Special Needs Planners, National Aging in Place Council, Financial Services Institute, Financial Planning Association, The Florida Bar, and the Nassau and Suffolk County Bar Associations.

An important part of her life, Donna is actively involved with people who have Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and other special needs. She gives her time and shares her knowledge at numerous events and seminars. She is a member of the board of directors of the Long Island Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, and a board member of HorseAbility, an established organization that improves the lives of people with special needs through therapy programs utilizing interactions with horses.

but family. While many people can say they can trust their business partners, deep down, they know there is a possibility of a parting of the ways for self-interest.

Not in our case. We have never ever once had to worry or think about that. Although there are not too many cons, working with family can be challenging. Like any other mother/daughter relationship, we will disagree on our actions and approach to situations. So adding the partner/partner challenges along with the mother/ daughter natural challenges makes for some lengthy debates on our business practices sometimes.

The other challenge is succession plans. It is unthinkable to me to have to face that someday we won’t be working together due to natural life events. We both have a hard time fathoming the idea that one of us will have to replace the other someday. These plans must be faced, and we do work on the contingencies, but this is much more challenging in heart and mind than just finding a new business partner. I am proud to say that my mother and I have created a truly dynamic and incredible business practice together. We have both had our own personal journey but have shared it together. www.stefanslawgroup.com www.wealthadvisoryassoc.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 65

Voice Actor, Author, Producer, Entrepreneur

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elissa Del Toro Schaffner is an American voice actor, co-creator, producer, and narrator of The Untold Tales Podcast, a short story sci-fi audio drama. In addition to being in the ‘mother after 40 club,’ she wears multiple hats. These include international best-selling author, accomplished accountability coach, and creator/illustrator of the Minority Girl Empowerment Coloring Book, “Careers for Little Sisters” (available in English and Spanish). Melissa was also a contestant on the nationally televised game show “Who Wants to Be A Millionaire.” She was an electrical engineer and a project manager before she took the big leap into her dream of business ownership. Her current mission is to inspire one million women to live the life of their dreams.

With an educational background in electrical engineering and project management, how did you get involved in the voice-over field?

I used to joke with my friends in engineering school that I wanted to be a character voice in a Pixar movie, because I loved to entertain and tell stories. I was inspired to become an engineer because of my father, but it just wasn’t me. When my father died 20 years later, I solidified my commitment to follow my voiceover dreams and booked my first audiobook on ACX Audible. The rest is a journey in progress.

How have your experiences as the mother of a young child and a corporate professional helped you perform voiceover scripts for a global client base?

Voice acting is an exercise in empathy, awareness, and connection.

Connection is a daily exercise for me, such as reading children’s stories out loud to my four-year old daughter and exercising my creativity. My corporate background allows me to understand managed team environ66 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

ments, which gives me both a great inner compass on how to convey information in a compelling way and the experience to know how to run my own business as a professional.

What advice would you give women looking to enter the voice over field?

Take classes to see if you really like it before going out and spending a lot of money on equipment and a demo. Voiceover training is essential.

Sit alone in a tiny, hot closet and read out loud to yourself for at least 1-2 hours a day and see if you like it.

Be yourself. Authenticity is key to standing out.

You created and illustrated The Minority Girl Empowerment Coloring Book “Careers for Little Sisters.”

What was the catalyst behind this endeavor?

My mother and I came up with the idea of creating a career coloring book featuring minority women doing historically underrepresented jobs, because books empowering minority women were very few at the time. I created it because I wanted all girls to know that there are many

more options available to them than just the occupations their mothers, parents, or extended family hold.

Tell us about your volunteer work with Learning Ally in Manhattan and Storyberries.

I spent three years recording audiobooks at Learning Ally. I learned best practices and honed my narration and reading skills there for many years before I struck out on my own.

Recently, I narrated four stories on Storyberries, a podcast with the largest free collection of stories for kids.

We listen to it every night before we go to sleep.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means being able to make your own choices for your life. It means knowing where to find information, resources, and support.

It means having the courage to stand up and be yourself, and not having to rely on other people to make things happen. It means that you feel confident enough to create and promote yourself. www.melissadeltoro.com

Deborah A. Haydon Owner | DT Callis Seafood, LLC

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eborah Haydon has over 25 years of experience in the food industry.

She is a member and owner of DT Callis Seafood, LLC, which is a family-owned business and distributor that processes and distributes oysters from the Chesapeake Bay area in Virginia. In addition to overseeing the daily operations, she is responsible for harvesting and buying oysters from local watermen off the Chesapeake Bay area. Deborah boxes fresh oysters for the half shell market and packages shucked oysters in quart and gallon containers for restaurant and seafood business clientele.

Along with her husband Terry, they are working to revive their family oyster business in the Chesapeake Bay area. The decline of oyster beds and the economic downturn caused high unemployment and poverty in what was once the bedrock of this community. Now the oysters are coming back and demand for them is growing. Even COVID-19 couldn’t keep them down. Deborah’s processing plant creates a market for many watermen who ply the rivers to sell their harvests. Her business directly benefits her community by providing jobs and donates to the local food bank that serves around 350 families every Thursday.

Born in New Jersey, Deborah attended Burlington County Community College, where she was on the Dean’s List and a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She managed a dairy farm for 23 years. She then served as a nurseryman growing native plants before managing the company’s satellite nursery in Virginia. She has been rebuilding DT Callis Seafood, LLC for the past four years.

Deborah received the Stevie Award for Women Entrepreneurs in 2017 placing 3rd in the world. In her spare time, she enjoys horseback riding, fishing, and family activities.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I began oystering with my husband Terry. He had been oystering for 50 years and I wanted to learn what that was all about. He taught me the ropes and I loved it so much I decided to start my own oyster business.

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

One kingpin in the business has tried to sabotage our equipment by cutting lines to our navigational equipment and the ropes to our harvesting equipment.

They also tried to sabotage our cleanliness by putting soiled bathroom tissue from the outhouse in our baskets.

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

Crockpot dinners are easy to have ready when you get home.

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

It’s still a man’s world out there.

However, take the challenge and figure out how to fit in. Instead of mentioning something as your idea, make it sound like it’s their idea and what they think about it. It works.

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

Love what you do. Keep your eyes open and listen. Quickly learn what makes the male co-worker tick and then build your strategy. Don’t just plow in. Their blood is just as red as yours whether you are the chief or the Indian.

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

I exercise the ‘big stick’ policy which was to walk softly and carry a big stick.

You will go far with this philosophy.

Theodore Roosevelt coined that phrase (a West African proverb). He used it to steer the course of the country. My course is also guided by the Holy Spirit and God’s word which directs me and comforts me as I pray for wisdom and strength. dtcallisseafood.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 67

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hat makes mustsee TV? Combining cuisine, celebrities, and of course, attractive women.

That’s what Dining Divas is all about... a fun out-on-thetown novel spin on high-end restaurant reviews with classy and attractive hosts featuring the trendiest hot spots for dining. The brainchild of Christine Curran, the “Spicy Diva,” DDtv is the ultimate foodie lifestyle show airing in Vegas, Hawaii, and South Florida, and on several OTT platforms.

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www.DiningDivas.tv

Boutique Resort to Visit

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cean Manor is unique as it doubles as a hotel and condo building in one. If you go there enough, you will definitely get to know your regulars. The “Cheers” community there is strong. They have awesome handhelds and appetizers at the Tiki Bar. My go-to is the Bamboo Rock Shrimp, but I’ve tried plenty of things on that menu and have never been disappointed. There’s a great Italian restaurant inside the resort called Casa Calabria that has an amazing view if you sit on the deck overlooking the ocean.

I’ve only eaten there once, but I will say that the Chicken Parmigiana was incredible. The portions are large and in charge.

Ocean Manor is by far the most complete boutique resort you can stay at on the beach. Right next door, you can jump on a jet ski if you’re feeling adventurous. One of my favorite rooms is the penthouse, of course. Always ask if that’s available for your stay; you will thank me later.

Traveling to Fort Lauderdale, Florida?

H ere is a great restaurant suggestion and hotel.

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f you’re looking for that restaurant that has it all in Fort Lauderdale, Piazza Italia is the full package. Located right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the Las Olas strip, this Italian hot spot is a gem for lunch, dinner, cocktails, and ambiance. From the noodles to the gelato, everything is made in-house from scratch. The Dining Divas got a first-hand experience in the Italian traditions on Episode 6. Grab your favorite cocktail and check it out at www.

DiningDivas.tv. The Polpette, better known as meatballs, are made to perfection, extra-large, accompanied with the softest ricotta cheese and a not too sweet, but just perfect, red sauce. I also highly recommend Prosciutto Crudo if you like a great Italian pizza. It’s light, crispy, and the meat and cheese are super fresh.

I’m a big fan of arugula, which tops this perfect pizza off just right. There are so many great options when it comes to dinner at Piazza, but I haven’t tried them all yet. Being that the pasta is handmade, I do tend to lean towards a pasta dish. The Tortellini Truffle is so soft, and the filling is superb. If you’re a Lobster Ravioli fan, they have what I think is one of the best I’ve ever tried. It has a unique twist to the sauce that just sets it off. These mouth-watering dishes wouldn’t be complete without ending your meal with the freshly made gelato or the savory Tiramisu. Now, if you’re a cocktail connoisseur like myself, you have to try the limoncello either as an after-dinner drink or a martini.

The best part about this foodie hotspot is the amazing decor and wild light-up TV ceiling that

flashes very cool ambiance moods from night gazing at the stars to palm fronds waving on the beach, and even techno inspired graphics. The food is hot, the music is hotter, and you’re always guaranteed a great time at Piazza Italia on Las Olas Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

World-Famous Tiki Bar My favorite spot on the beach in Fort Lauderdale is most definitely the world-famous Tiki Bar at Bamboo Beach inside the Ocean Manor Resort. Only steps away from having your toes in the sand, the view over cocktails is bar none! I can’t even count how many nights I’ve watched sport events on their large TVs with the wind blowing in my hair at sunset, amidst a crowd of awesome condo owners or guests like myself.

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

It’s never too late to reach your goals. Don’t let age stand in the way;

GAIL KING G

72 -how do you do!

ail King from Dix Hills, Long Island, danced as a child with the Antonini Ballet Company and performed at Carnegie Hall. After graduating Magna Cum Laude from Dowling College and receiving her Master’s Degree from Stony Brook University, Gail went on to teach for 35 years at Sachem High School North in Lake Ronkonkoma. Currently retired, as a high school English teacher and adjunct instructor, Gail was very involved in their mentoring program presenting a compilation of published educators and her own original award-winning lesson plans emphasizing cooperative learning and discipline. Gail presented her cooperative learning techniques at a New York State Conference in Albany and was inducted in the Academy for Teaching and Learning. She was also awarded a SCOPE All Star Teacher Award for her work currently used by schools on Long Island, New York.

Gail went on to live out her dream of becoming an inspirational role

Host, LooKing to Make a Difference with Gail

model for seniors when she entered the Ms. New York Sr. America Pageant. She entered to draw attention to the achievements and accomplishments of senior women. After Gail won the New York title, she went on to win the National Pageant and title of Ms. Senior America. She went on to become an award-winning motivational speaker helping women and

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their families in their fight against breast cancer. She has shared her personal story of victory with helpful advice on daytime TV in Tampa, Florida and the Arlington Weekly News: The Rich Massabny Show.

Her articles have been published in IMAGE Magazine. She’s been featured in Long Island Woman, Pulse Magazine, and is a featured article and cover of Generations Magazine and Gem Magazine.

Gail’s work has helped raise money for children’s charities, veterans groups, animal rights and for families in need. Gail now hosts her own internet TV show, LooKING to make a Difference with GAIL, an interview show with people who are inspirational and inspire others to help people and animals seen on Gailkingtv.com, Lightningstarentertainment.com, of which she is president and partner, Roku (Lightningstartv), Cablevision in Nassau-Suffolk and the Hamptons as well as Time Warner in Brooklyn and on Fios throughout the five boroughs.

Gailkingtv.com

Kelly Falardeau K

Author, Speaker

elly Falardeau is a burn survivor, author, coach, and speaker. At the age of two, 75% of her body was burned.

She found a way to go from near-death to success; from the ugly scar-faced girl to the TEDx stage twice, Fierce Woman of the Year, a 7x international best-selling author, recipient of the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal, and a YWCA Woman of Distinction. A documentary about her life story called “Still Beautiful” launched on TV and Goalcast launched a video that has almost ten million views. Now, Kelly is a full-time best-selling author strategist, coaching people to become best-selling authors. On Christmas day, Global TV announced Kelly as one of the Most Inspirational People of 2020.

How did you overcome your challenges?

I visualize my future and what I want my life to look like. I break down challenges piece by piece and work on what I can do and get others to do what I can’t. I developed a perseverance toolkit.

As a result of your story, what gift have you taken from it?

Me getting burnt is not a tragedy, it’s a gift. I was given the gift of living through being the ugly, scarfaced girl, so I can teach others how to love themselves no matter what they look like.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Never give up. You are loved, needed, and wanted, and you will have that beautiful life you have always dreamed of. You will have kids who love and adore you.

How did you get started as a speaker/author?

I met another speaker who said, “You need to become a speaker. People will be inspired by your story.” I thought she was nuts, but she got me on a

stage and now I’m a TEDx, award-winning virtual speaker, and best-selling author.

Why do you enjoy coaching people to become best-selling authors?

Firstly, becoming an author is easier today than it’s ever been- plus you can do it for free. Secondly, I love calling my authors and saying, “Hey, you’re the newest best-selling author.”

What does the word power mean to you?

Power means I am strong, brave, vulnerable, courageous, and I prove to myself and my kids that I can accomplish my dreams. I don’t let being a single mom dictate whether I am successful or not.

I persevere no matter what. www.kellyfalardeau.com www.7StepsAuthor.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 71

Anjel Hartwell Be Heard By Millions & Live Your Destiny: A Creative Age Leader’s Guide to Speak, Sell, Serve & Succeed Twenty years ago, Anjel had a spiritual awakening that completely turned her “safe” life upside down.

At the time, she thought she had lost everything that was important to her, but instead she realized she had been given a gift that was far more valuable: A business that allowed her to make a real difference for millions of people while she worked from her home and raised her son. Now she’s sharing her proven blueprint with you.

In Be Heard By Millions And Live Your Destiny, you’ll discover the simple steps you need to take to set yourself up to speak, sell, serve, and succeed as a messenger on a mission. In addition, you’ll receive helpful exercises, tips, and guidance to get your message out in the most energy efficient way to the people who most need to hear from you so that they can make big changes happen too.

The host of two very successful podcasts Anne Burrell (ranked in the top 75 Cook Like a Rock Star in Apple), Anjel knows Taking control in the kitchen means mastering flavors the secret of how to and constantly keeping an eye on what Anne calls “QC” package your gifts for (quality control). It starts with learning the power of the masses. If you’re great ingredients (how quality olive oil and salt can ready to create massive transform an everyday dish), understanding the tools in change in your indusyour kitchen, and getting your mise en place ready before try, field of expertise or diving into a recipe. Anne shows you how to apply these the world at large, this skills to a slew of delicious, high-brow/low-stress recipes book may be exactthat get you out of a cooking rut, so you can keep surly what you’ve been prising yourself in the kitchen. POC (piece of cake)! searching for.

Try out your new skills with classic bistro fare, such as Grilled Hanger Steak, Fish and Chips, or simple dishes, like Mushroom Soup with Bacon, and Shrimp in Garlic Oil and Chiles. Master roasting with a Hawaiian pork dish, have fun with spices making chicken roti, for a casual bite there’s her Sicilian Tuna, Caponata, Provolone & Arugula Panino. Each dish—whether firsts, seconds, sides, brunch, sandwiches, or desserts—is accessible yet teaches a range of techniques and embraces tantalizing flavors. And they all share Anne’s secrets to great home cooking.

Here is Anne at her most personal—complete with her enthusiastic, sassy approach to how to get the most out of ingredients and whip up irresistibly delicious dishes that she likes to cook at home. So cook these recipes, master them, and then you will OWN YOUR KITCHEN!

Elisa DiStefano and Stacy Moutafis The Bridal Body: Your Workout Workbook and Recipes for Success The Bridal Body book is the every-bride’s guide to wedding weight loss.

Join us on the journey to achieving your ultimate bridal body today.

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BOOK

This book is a case study of how anyone can harness the power of perspective, inner wisdom, and human spirit to transform any situation into a blessing and steppingstone toward a rich and fulfilling life, in a matter of seconds.

Victoria Vives, shamanic practitioner, healer, teacher, writer, and international speaker, presents us with a relatable guide to the life of your dreams in autobiographical format. She shares how she overcame impossible challenges from her past such as near-death experiences, poverty, psychosis, spiritual awakening, racism, and so much more with concrete, repeatable strategies, and wisdom gained from self-reflection, mentors, and inner guidance.

Life is an infinitely complex journey of experiences, dictated by our inner world, our external environment, the decisions we make and actions we take. In a Matter of Seconds is both compass and road map designed to help navigate difficult times and live up to our greatest potential. If you had a foolproof method to guarantee a life of happiness and without limitations, would you use it?

Victoria Vives Khuong shares her personal story of overcoming extreme conditions of racism, inequality, poverty, drugs, and ignorance and limiting beliefs, ultimately defying all expectations by forging a life of success, happiness, and abundance. Through her own story and reflecting on her failures and successes, Victoria presents, in autobiographical format, a manual for success and happiness, no matter the cards you’ve been dealt.

Melissa D. Schaffner Careers for Little Sisters: A coloring book for inspiration Color beautiful, realistic, and inspirational materials showing children their career possibilities for when they “grow up.” Let’s encourage little girls to dream big in their lives. This book is created with the loving intention to inspire, entertain, and lift up all people, especially little girls… all little girls. You are the mothers, lovers, teachers, visionaries, and leaders of the future. No matter who you are, or where you live, dream early. Dream big. The world needs you. May all of your dreams come true.

Annetta Powell Finding, Fixing and Flipping Properties Real Estate Guru, Annetta Powell shows you how anyone can become prosperous in real estate investments. Her clear-cut process explores her proven, moneymaking formula and will put you on the path to finding, fixing, and flipping properties for profit. Annetta provides realistic scenarios that can help you negotiate with sellers, tips for avoiding common mistakes, sample worksheets, and much more! This book also shows you how to recruit a million dollar “Dream Team” of professionals who will help you find, fix, and flip properties, network with people in the real estate industry, sell your investment property in a down market, and more!

PHOTO: Hannah Morgan|Unsplash

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 73

Corner

Victoria Vives Khuong In a Matter of Seconds: A Story to Empower Yourself into Love, Success and Manifestation

E M P O W E R E D Acacia Dietz

Beyond Barriers MANAGING DIRECTOR

Amanda Angell

Angeline J. Lallathin

Amanda Baltz-Gainan

Trinity Home Solutions, Inc. CONSULTANT

Guardian Chiropractic, LLC CHIROPRACTOR/ OWNER

Adriana Lara

Farmers Insurance PRODUCER / AGENT

Boys & Girls Club of the Flathead Reservation and Lake County ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Adriana Robine

HCC Cleaning, LLC OWNER

Amanda Borghese

Adrienne Provent

Perlier CO-OWNER

Adrienne Provent MASSAGE THERAPIST

Amber M. Roberts

Adrienne R. Alexander USPS DISTRICT SAFETY MANAGER

Amber’s Pet Friendly Grooming OWNER/GROOMER

Aida Maberry

Amber N. Talley

Clean All Around & Staffing OWNER

Country Creations OWNER

Aime Schofield

Creative New Beginnings OWNER

Amy O’Hara

Professional Case Management NURSE

Andrea Ricketts EGirlfridayva OWNER

Aiyana Luke

Aiyana Blooms OWNER

Akeba A. Ballard Fearence

Inspired2Design Custom Art CEO

Alexandra C. Jackson Einstein Healthcare Network PATIENT SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

Alicia Witherspoon Babylon Hair Lounge MANAGER/STYLIST

Anita McNealy-Hill

Annalisa Glenn

Unique Euphony Publishing OWNER

Annastasia Knox

Elev8biz Community & Business Services OWNER

Springville Ranch DIRECTOR

Something For Everyone Else Shop OWNER Girl Get Up and Flow FOUNDER

Anne Brandi Addazio

AAG ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT II

Annie Glenister

Lexitas Legal / Medix (Ambulnz) PRODUCTION SPECIALIST / ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Anyette T. Taylor

Angela Dooley

Angel Bookkeeping OWNER

Angela Lucas

Angelas Angels LLC OWNER

Angela M. Maxwell

The Bunny Hutch Boutique & Climates Exotic Animal Rescue FOUNDER / CEO

Avis L. Milburn 713 Bistros OWNER

Touch by Net Hair Salon OWNER

Compass - The ColombosDooley Team REALTOR

Ava Tausz

Mercury Pharmacy Services CERTIFIED PHARMACY TECHNICIAN

Anna Kostanyan

Andreka Michelle Eberhart Solutions Medical DIRECTOR

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

Magna Seating QUALITY ENGINEER

April McKinney

Aretuza Caldas Garner Orlando Dance Conservatory BALLET TEACHER / MENTOR

Astrid Steele

Lewisville ISD K-8 STUDENT ASSISTANCE COUNSELOR

Barbara Pierce

Barbara Probance

Barbara Ann Doherty

Suburban Hospital / Johns Hopkins Medicine ONCOLOGY NURSE

Barbara S. Murray UPS TRUCK DRIVER

Belinda D. Davis Beez Deezigns OWNER

Betty M. Sarchet

Community Health Centers Inc. MLT / LAB SUPERVISOR

Beverly S. Carnell

Beverly Carnell & Associates OWNER / NURSE CONSULTANT

Bianca N. DeLaRosa KHive Action OWNER

Bliss Rae

Raediem, LLC OWNER

E M P O W E R E D Brandie Marie Smith

Celeste Pavone

Justice Never Sleepskeepsakes OWNER

Century 21 Guspav Realty, Inc. OWNER / BROKER

Brenda M. Ingram

Charlene I. Arroyo

WCAngel Cleaning OWNER

Brianna Ciancio

Freelancer CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT

Bridgette Vallejos Viper Bit Services PRESIDENT

Carmen HunterAnderson

Carmen Hunter-Anderson CEO / REALTOR

Carolyn J. Lambert

BBG Your 913 Connect OWNER

Carroll Martin

Scott, Douglass & McConnico LLP PARTNER / ATTORNEY

Catherine Howard

Legal Shield INDEPENDENT ASSOCIATE

Catherine Thomas DaSilva

Phenomenal Comics LLC CEO

Cathy L. Auer

Kidssmiles OFFICE MANAGER

Charlise E. StallworthWatson K & M Taxes LLC OWNER

Charlotte S. Doyen Gary Yeomans Ford Lincoln INTERNET SALES

Chauweda E. Smith

Total Life CEO, DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL STUDIES

Cheree Byrd

Sorry Face Productions BUSINESS OWNER

Cheryl L. DavidsonWathne

Cheryl L. DavidsonWathne SGA-WGAW Independent LLC INDEPENDENT SCREEN WRITER

Cheryl L. Olson

Seminole County Public Schools DIRECTOR, PURCHASING AND DISTRIBUTION SERVICES

Christa Ward

TS Billing CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL CODER

Beyond Kids LLC OWNER

Catrina R. Rivera

Christabel Bishop

Fast Tax Service TAX PREPARER

Precious Moments SOLE PROPRIETOR

Christina RodriguezMares

Crystal Overstreet

Mamabear Services CARETAKER / CONTRACTOR

San Antonio Business Services ENROLLED AGENT / REAL ESTATE BROKER

Crystal L. MedleyCunningham K Kovered OWNER

Christina Tenerowicz University of Colorado Boulder DIRECTOR

Crystal S. Parker

Family Blessed Families CEO

Christine E. Burks

Crystal S. Pitchford

TCB Goodies CO-OWNER / OPERATOR

IceeShade DESIGNER / OWNER / DENTAL ASSISTANT / PHLEBOTOMIST

Christine L. Iacopini

Enchantment CryoCool OWNER

Crystal Y. Turner Denas Phynest E Consulting CEO

Christy L. Adams

Close to my Heart Breast Cancer Foundation FOUNDER

Cynthia WilkersonMims

Cinnamon King

Wilkerson Childcare OWNER

Melanin Beauty Suppliers OWNER

Consandia Ann Grier

Cynthia J. Leonard

The San Care Center, LLC OWNER

Cordelia L. Strhan

Irreplaceable Prints and Designs CEO

Cornilla C. Johnson We Come 2 Clean OWNER

Corrinna M. Martin Mothers of Victim’s Equality Inc. PRESIDENT / FOUNDER

Crystal Austin

Angels Helping Hands MEDICAL TECHNICIAN / CAREGIVER

Cindy’s Cleaning OWNER

Dana Littlejohn

Books by Dana Littlejohn AUTHOR

Danielle Allen

Deluxe Allure Accessories LLC OWNER

Dawn Gallagher

Dawn Gallagher EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT

Debbie Faragoza Faragoza Stables CEO / TRAINER

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 75

E M P O W E R E D Deborah Buscietta

Unique Flowers by Debbie OWNER

Donna M. Brown-Wellington

Elizabeth Loge

Gina Grimaldi

Donna M. Stefans

Elizabeth Savage

Gina Schenk

Stefans Associates FOUNDER / LEAD ESTATE AND ELDER LAW ATTORNEY

Stand Together Against Nationwide Domestic Violence CEO / FOUNDER

Black Bull Capital Partners, LLC REGISTERED REPRESENTATIVE

Donna P. Davidson

Ellen Regenbogen

MENACE FUND OWNER

Damselfly Skincare CREATOR / OPERATOR

Debra Lynn Vine US Army Dentac DENTAL ASSISTANT

Debra W. Terrell

Sister Gals COMMUNITY OUTREACH SPECIALIST

CBS Rentals CEO

Caring First Healthcare Services OWNER / ADMINISTRATOR

Ellen Bari Fitness HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACH

Donnier Daugherty

Emebet T. Boku

Put the Word on it Ministries APOSTLE / FLIGHT ATTENDANT

Time to rind PRESIDENT

EB Express LLC V.P. / MANAGER

Dora C. Famulari

Emily J. Osborne

Desiree M. Rilveria

OWNER

Dee C. Sanders

Bail Me Out Productions OWNER

Delcina O. Smith

808 Junk Removal & Bin Services OWNER

D&D Transportation

Doris E. Walker-Patton Sweet Woman Beauty Chair OWNER / COSMETOLOGIST

Diana Ceneus

FastMed/Bioreference COVID-19 TESTER

Dorothy Cavalcanti

Diana Fregapane

Grace-based Family Trauma Coaching PARENT TRAUMA COACH

Traffic Control Flagging & Events Specialists SAFETY OFFICER

Redefine Hope OWNER

Erica N. Walker-Vaught RCC Hair Extension LLC OWNER

Eva Wills

TDSB TEACHER-LIBRARIAN

Ferlicia N. Thompson

CVS Health LEAD MANAGER

Glenda Hairston Gloria Woods

Broken Shackles AUTHOR / MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER / SOCIAL WORKER

Gloria B. Graves

DAB Music Lab / Charles England Elementary School PIANO INSTRUCTOR / PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER

Gloria J. Williams

Safe Haven Personal Care Home CEO

Hanna Benti

Pure Romance by Ferlicia INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT

Brava Cafe Inc. CHEF

Diane Reeve

Inspiring Minds Behavior Business Consultant Coach CEO

Georgia M.H. Brown

Heather Garrett

Edania C. Rondon

Diane Rosario

Edania C. Rondon Law ATTORNEY

Ghislaine Y. Guez

Valley Health Plan CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

Heike M. Vogel

E’Lea Taylor

Giada De Laurentiis

Vision Martial Arts CEO Rosario Painting Plus LLC CO-OWNER

Dorothy K. Lane

Diane M. Gonzalez

K Salon HAIR DESIGNER

Diane M. Stalker

Bellarmine University ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR / CHAIR

Diane Gonzalez ATTORNEY AT LAW Diane Stalker OWNER

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

Elizabeth Ennis

Mae Brown AUTHOR

Giada De Laurentiis CHEF, TELEVISION PERSONALITY, RESTAURATEUR, AUTHOR

Boss Up Boutique BUSINESS OWNER A.Y. Strauss PARTNER

Helen Wyatt

Alcorn State University CHAIR, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND PSYCHOLOGY, RETIRED EDUCATOR

E M P O W E R E D Helen L. Beamer

Jennifer Melicia

Econa Farms OWNER

So* Leo Assistant Services OWNER / PERSONAL ASSISTANT

Helen Tyne Mayfield

Jennifer Lynn Woods Peterka

Mayfield for Justice PRESIDENT

Holly Perkins

Hilly Perkins PERSONAL TRAINER

Jennifer’s Smart Savings and Shopping OWNER

Jeri M. Wiggins

Jacqueline Robinson

Jeri M. Wiggins INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

Jacqueline Y. Fuqua

Jerri’s Catering & Cuisine FOUNDER / OWNER

Maurice’s Real Pit BBQ MANAGER The Fuqua Institute of Beauty Culture LLC OWNER / EDUCATOR

Jaime Napolitano

Westside Veterinary Center VETERINARIAN

Jane Eason

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center DEPARTMENT HEAD & CHAIR

Janetta A. Thomas-Inniss

Happy Labs 365 CEO / HEAD PHLEBOTOMIST

Janie L. Washington-Bennett

Pearl #31 Inc. Foundation CEO

Jeanette Caballero

Diversity Beauty ENTREPRENEUR / HAIR STYLIST

Jeannetta M. Washington

We Juice LLC MANAGER / CO-OWNER

Jerri F. Jones

Jerrita L. McClain

NoLo Support Services OWNER

Jessica Strawser

Valley Behavioral Health System DISCHARGE PLANNER

Jessica A. Brown

JnR Custom Designs CFO

Jessica A. Hamrick

I Am / All About You Housekeeping EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR / OWNER

Jessica L. Lorance-Johnson

Jessica L. Lorance-Johnson HOME HEALTH AIDE

Joann Mae / Mato Gleska weyan Spotted Bear

Justices In the Eyes of the world CEO

Jocelyn L. Johnson

Bea’s Cleaning Service CEO / OWNER

Josie M. Val

Kelli Hall Kelli Hall MANAGER

Kenitra A. Sykes

C & V Multi Services Group, Inc. OWNER

The Sandwich Shack, LLC OWNER

Judy A. Williams

K-Lou & Grace MINDSET/LIFE MASTERY COACH

Department of Veterans Affairs COMMUNITY CARE NURSE / LPN

Julie A. Young

Divine Interventions Reiki Healing REIKI MASTER

Julie M.W. Warshaw Julie Warshaw Attorney at Law ATTORNEY AT LAW

Kameilah L. McKie Creatively Me BAKER

Karen A. Watson Williams

Kerri Lewis

Ketrina Lewis

Modern Health & Wellness NURSE PRACTITIONER / CEO / OWNER

Keyna Darling

Keyna Darling SINGER / SONGWRITER / AUTHOR / ACTRESS

Kiana Simmons Suga Beauti Bar OWNER

Kimberly Chin

CJ Liquors Distributors OWNER

Kimberly Fenton

Holiday House of Portsmouth DIRECTOR OF NURSING

Momma Duke’s Spotless Touch OWNER

Karen R. Ross-Forrest

Kimberly V. Lewis

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant SUPERVISOR

Karry Trotter

CareSource MEDICARE SALES MANAGER

Kathy Hackett N.A BUSINESS OWNER

U-NIQUK WEAR DESIGNER

Kristen M. Riegler

Royal Roofing and General Contracting LLC OWNER

Kristen R. Miller

Compass Real Estate REALTOR

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 77

E M P O W E R E D Kristi L. Fakhri

Lindy A. Muhl

Heart and Vascular Institute of Texas LVN

Independence Title COMMERCIAL CLOSER / ESCROW OFFICER

Kristie J. Neal

Linette PlazaHernandez

KJ’s Professional Cleaning Services LLC OWNER

Lacresiha Geeter Rx Psych Staffing OWNER

Lady Smoov

Lady Smoov Entertainment ARTIST, ENTERTAINER, OWNER

Lakeeshea Rohena

Prosperity Fragrance OWNER

Lara J. Solovay Heavenly Good AUTHOR / COACH

Larisa Baranova Larisa’s Cleaning Services LLC OWNER

Laura C. Morejon-Bodelo

Thomas J. Henry Law INTAKE ATTORNEY MANAGER

Laurie Hedrick

LTC HOTSHOT LLC OWNER

Leshell Dennis

QTC Medical Group DISABILITY EVALUATION COORDINATOR

Linley K. Allen

Pioneer Human Services CLINICAL SUD MANAGER

Lisa Crockett

Helping and Healing Home Care LLC VICE PRESIDENT

Lisabeth E. Marziello Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia PRESIDENT / CEO

Lisaleigh Sniffen House of Beauty OWNER

Liz Fernwalt

EPG Insurance Inc. TRUCK INSURANCE MANAGER

Lizett Gonzalez Tortured Art OWNER

Llissel Garcia

Endless Glam Boutique OWNER

Absolutely Flawless Women Inc. OWNER/FOUNDER

Lois Robbins

Linda Ward

Lora J. Booth

A Touch of Ribbon OWNER

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

Lois Robbins ACTRESS

Lora J. Booth HEAD NURSE OF DISASTER/ TRAUMA, RETIRED NURSE

Lori Seay

Soul Veg City CFO

Louvinia A. Cole Kingdom Reset Solutions N/A CEO

Lovett M. Ojuri-Davis BioHealthCM VICE PRESIDENT

Mallie Thompson Mallie’s OWNER

Marchaka C. Yeargin Chaka’s Braid Studio OWNER / HAIR STYLIST

Marcy D. Carter

MMM Women and Children’s Wellness Center FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

Marilyn Stefans

Stefans Associates OWNER / REGISTERED REPRESENTATIVE

Mary E. McAndrews Lasting Looks Permanent Makeup OWNER

Mary L. Garbs

Willow Haven CNA CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT

Maxx Brown

Special Blends Bartending School OWNER / INSTRUCTOR

Mecca Hamilton Mecca Hamilton REGIONAL TECH. REP CUSTOMER

Megan Geren

Maria C. Nadoraski

Timeless Creations OWNER

Maria C. Tebeau

Bound Brook School District SCHOOL NURSE

Ballston Spa National Bank LOAN ORIGINATOR Franklin Perkins School ASSISTANT V.P. OF RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT SERVICES

Maria Cecilia Hopson-Kleemann

Flushing Valley Golf Course, Sports Bar and Banquet Center CEO

Melissa Sherman Melissa Slider

Eht Tibbar Eloh LLC OWNER

Melissa A. Carter

Victorian Senior Care CNA / MED TECH

Mercedes P. Armstrong

Maria Luz Molon

City of New York Healthcare MEDICAL ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SUPERVISOR

RN

Mercia Williams

NYU Langone Brooklyn and NY Presbyterian Hospital

Maria M. LoTempio

LoTempio Plastic Surgery for Women PLASTIC SURGEON

MRW Wellness HEALTH, LIFE, WELLNESS COACH

E M P O W E R E D Michele Montgomery Spectrum Success 911 CO FOUNDER

Specialneedsluv2inc FOUNDER

Nadia Garcon

Pandoria Porter

Michelle C. Garcia-Rivera

Nancy L. Green

Patrice A. Johnson

Edward-Elmhurst Health SYSTEM LAUNDRY AND LINEN MANAGER

Michelle L. Huber

Community Home Care PERSONAL CARE AID

Michelle Marie Toohey Michelle Marie McCoy-Toohey CEO

Mimi Vonsee

New Jersey Property Preservation Group OWNER

Mindy A. Cunliffe

Cleaning Up the Past CEO

Molly McLaughlin JeMi Farms RABBIT KEEPER

Molly O’Griffin

Therapeutic Tarot Reader PSYCHOLOGIST

Monica Burneikis Burneikis Law ATTORNEY

Monica Labeaud STYLeeK and Co. OWNER

Myriah S. Velazco

Empowered Benefits SCRUM MASTER

Nancy Green & Associates PRESIDENT

Neka E. Hudson

Beauty by Hudson OWNER / ESTHETICIAN

Niccy L. James

Salon de Charles INDEPENDENT STYLIST

Nichole “Niki” Childers

Patricia A. Alford

Star One Development & Structuring Inc. CEO

Patty M. Breeze

Pettit Kohn Ingrassia & Lutz ATTORNEY

Oneness Mobility PRESIDENT

Dell SENIOR SUPPORT ENGINEER

Nicole A. Boone

Axonics ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR / HUMAN RESOURCES BUSINESS PARTNER

Nicole E. Scott

Kountrys Place of Faith & Hope OWNER

Raishelle DavisWilliams Cadre Health DIRECTOR OF IMPLEMENTATIONS

Judy’s Island Grill CHEF/OWNER

Precious Swain-Peaks

Rebecca L. Farrell

Swain Girl Media OWNER

Fox Chase Cancer Center CLINICAL MANAGER

Priscella McCoy

Regina M. Jones

Rivers of Life Restoration Ministry PASTOR

Oluwatoyin Dansu Oshipitan

Rachael Moran

Sentext Solutions INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

Rachelle S. Murphy

Pauline Judy Scott

Raashida Shelton

Pamela R. Johnson

Primerica REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

Pauline J. Benoit

Midwest Invitational Rodeo OWNER

Uniform Party Ministry Organization FOUNDER

Rachelle Johnson

Paula Barrett

Nicola C. Lawrence

Gorovsky Law ATTORNEY / OWNER

Rachel E. Albert

Breeze CLU, CFP OWNER AND CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Life Changing LLC CEO / RESOURCE SPECIALIST

Nicole Gorovsky

Rachel Little

Ventura Me Staff NURSING RECRUITER

Jobs for America’s Graduates DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS Wellbeing Institute PSYCHIATRIC PHYSICIAN

Rachel Brockl

Golden Gate University, School of Law EDUCATOR

Porterjacket SEAMSTRESS

UR (Unique Race) OWNER / DESIGNER

Renee Friedman Fast Signs OWNER

Keller Williams REALTOR

Retha Cain-Price

Therapeutic Hands LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST

CR Lawn Care of Akron OWNER

Rhea D. Hoston

Crimson Crusaders 4 H.O.P.E. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR / FOUNDER

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 79

E M P O W E R E D Robin A. Hill

Selwyn D. Whitehead

Joy OTL Enterprises FOUNDER

Robin E. Del Vecchio

Liberty Bank FIRST VICE PRESIDENT (FVP) / DEPOSIT OPERATIONS MANAGER

Law Offices of Selwyn D. Whitehead ATTORNEY AT LAW

Shaka M. Muhammad

Harmonious Hair All Things Beauty HAIR STYLIST / ENTREPRENEUR

Rose M. Crossfield

Sha’Ketta D. Davis

Rose Crossfield ER NURSE

MAGIC OWNER

Roxane Maliszewski

Shamira N. Spruill

GE, NuTone, Phillip-Morris, Kenner, GM, Ford, IlscoBardes, Porter Precision, Parkway Products, Senco TOOL AND DIE MAKER/MODEL MAKER/SUPERVISOR

Ocean Spirit Massage OWNER

Ruth Parks

Sharél C. Ferguson

Presto Vocational Institute NURSE / OWNER

Samantha F. Bellina

All State Insurance IT, PROJECT MANAGER

Shandell M. Warren

Ferguson’s Recovery Cleaning Service LLC OWNER / CUSTODIAL WORKER

Shari Ann Madho

Algren Associates DIRECTOR OF PLAN DESIGN AND PRODUCT INTELLIGENCE

Samantha M. LeCruise Boston Market MANAGER

Sandy L. Martin

Legal Advocates MANAGING ATTORNEY

Sharmeka N. Williams

Me-Me’s Heavenly Baked Cookies Soul Food & More OWNER

Sharon C. Lincoln

Diagnostic Clinic Medical Group SENIOR FINANCIAL ANALYST

Well Family Life Center FOUNDER

Sandy R. Villanueva

Sharon Georgina Jones

Uneek Warriors Unified Agent LIFE AND BUSINESS COACH

Scarlett Magda

Veterinarians International FOUNDER / PRESIDENT

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

Exwuisitedesigns DESIGNER

Sharonda Y. Stovall

Gara’s Goodies & Soulfood Catering, LLC OWNER

Shaudae McMillan Selah Respite Care CEO

Shawnsa S. Christy

Dreamsource Consulting CONSULTANT

Shayala L. Davis JaShay’s LLC OWNER

Shelly Hart Tiny Castles OWNER

Shemaria Scharmann

MiMi’s Kinder Connection OWNER / DOULA

Sheri Smallwood Sheri Smallwood ATTORNEY / OWNER

Sherleen Hayes Cooper Exclusive Sticks Pro LLC OWNER

Sherry Mitchell

Sinthyas A. Gabler

Keller Williams Beverly Hills REALTOR

Sonja D. Young

West Texas A&M University / State of Texas TEACHER / PEACE OFFICER

Starla M. Miller

Wellness Alliance Home Health CEO / DIRECTOR

Stephani Ann Brooks Sassy & Chic All Things Unique OWNER / DESIGNER

Stephanie Slitor

Upfield Foods SHIPPING DEPARTMENT LEAD

Stephanie A. Goins-Williams

Foster Grandparents PRESCHOOL TEACHER’S AIDE

Stephanie L. Bailey

Glorified Fitness Incorporated FITNESS INSTRUCTOR/OWNER

The House of Holistic Care OWNER

Shsandra M. Riley

Presto Magic Travel OWNER

Signe Griffin

Goddess Reborn AUTHOR / CEO

Sue Slater

SAP Shipping CEO

Signe Real Estate/ International Home STAY SOLE PROPRIETOR

Silvia I. Alvarenga

IMPERIAL HOMES AND INVESTMENTS REAL ESTATE BROKER / CFO

SueAnn Squire Susan Rodgers

Adult Puff Pastriez OWNER

Suzanne Blanton

Blanton’s Tax Service, Inc. OWNER

E M P O W E R E D Suzanne Johns

Thea L. Ciallella Theaology OWNER

Alta Investment Group PRESIDENT

Tabitha S. Taylor-Boone

Theresa M. Santoscoy

Tonyia S. Arellano

Only Luxury Estates Dallas CEO / MANAGING BROKER Sunnyside Love Extravagant Group, LLC CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

Takilia S. Banks

Rush University Medical Center CLINIC COORDINATOR

Tamakie B. Mobley Barnes and Mobley Helping Hands Inc. TRAVEL TECH NURSE

Tamara Schallenberg Roses Made With Love OWNER/DESIGNER

Tammria C. England TMVE LLC OWNER

Tarrazzia M. Martin-StClair

UPS ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Tiesha R. Bynes

Tidy Touch Cleaning Service ENTREPRENEUR

Tiffany Stone

Tina Thompson Notary Public PUBLIC NOTARY / LOAN SIGNING AGENT

Tina TSS Taylor

T’Aunna J. Smith

Tiplance L. Vernon

Shelia’s House of Love LLC FOUNDER

Tiplance De Beaute Salon MASTER HAIRSTYLIST

Teresa Stephenson

Tisha Brandes

myt.eatimenailz OWNER

Terrie J. Gore

ALIEFISD ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Vivienne D. Fulton

Fliigal Inc. CREATOR / DESIGNER / OWNER

Tricia M. Dover

Yolanda Y. Sanchez Awwad

Trudy Elizabeth Taul

USNIA Inc. CEO

Terrell L. Wright Jr.

Traci Jackson

Brandes Insurance Agency OWNER

Tishana Gibbs

Inland Empire Notary Services CERTIFIED LOAN SIGNING AGENT

OWNER

Kandi Konfections CEO

Tiffany M. Griffin Tina Thompson

Virginia L. Driver

Oconee County Process Service

The Lamplighter Life Coaching & Meal Prep COACH

Rise From the Ashes, LLC OWNER

Vilma Rosa

Standard Realty Co. ASSISTANT BROKER

Tonyia Arellano Educational Consultant EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT

Better Homes and Garden Metro Brokers Realty REALTOR

Ms. Tinas Affiliates LLC SOLE PROPRIETOR

Platinum Properties PRESIDENT

Toni Sutherland

Trudy Elizabeth Taul INDEPENDENT DATABASE CONTRACTOR

Valerie Mercado

911 Restoration, Inc. CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

Vanessa Black Banks Hair Is My Passion COSMETOLOGIST / OWNER

Silver Tree Residential LLC MARKETING COORDINATOR

Yvonne Pierce Banner Health SURGERY CODER

Yvonne L. Webber

Primetime Head Start CURRICULUM COACH

Yvonne Michelle Pittman

Vanessa L. Heights

Working Women Working Men LLC OWNER / PROVIDER

Vanessa M. Williams

Surety Trading, LLC OWNER

Republic Services COMMERCIAL DRIVER

Zakiyyah Ali

Xclusive Stylez COSMETOLOGIST

Vera M. Johnson

Unique Mobile Notary OWNER/NOTARY PUBLIC

Vickie L. Woods

U.S. Army FACILITIES DIRECTOR

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 81

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P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 83

Darcy Knapp-Fricks P.O.W.E.R. Woman of Distinction

President, Co-Owner | Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd., Knapp Sisters Cattle Company, D&S Investments Darcy Knapp-Fricks serves in a variety of industries including real estate, investments, cattle production, ranching and self-storage. She is the President and Co-Owner of Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd., started with her sister, Shelly Knapp, in 1999, which specializes in land rentals. They also own Knapp Sisters Cattle Company which focuses on cattle production and ranching and D&S Investments. Darcy is responsible for land rentals, agricultural and ranch management. In addition, Darcy and Shelly own The Knapp Sisters Self Storage, an AAA business consisting of five self-storage buildings. Their business was rated the #1 U-Haul dealer in the State of Texas and #3 U-Haul dealer in the U.S.

817-473-2311 Knappsistersselfstorage.com

100 Newt Patterson Rd., Mansfield, TX 76063

(Located across from the Post Office, on Main St. near Downtown Mansfield)