RWM_February 2012 by Rochester Woman Magazine

february 2012

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platter chatter:

STICKY LIPS RAISING AWARENESS OF

HEART DISEASE ONE WOMAN’S COURAGE

the skin cancer epidemic:

PART 1

success in a man’s world rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012

w w w. r o c h e s t e rwo m a n m ag . c o m

$15 OFF

BUY EARLY, PAY LESS Save on performances through February 26. Some restrictions, call for details.

A classic play about a familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s determination to live a better life in a changing world.

On Stage February 21 | By Lorraine Hansberry (585) 232-4382 www.gevatheatre.org Groups: (585) 232-1366 x3057 With support from

2011-2012 SEASON

REVIVING 5,000 YEARS OF CIVILIZATION. SHEN YUN. For Chinese, the words evoke a sense of wonder, magic, and the divine. To audiences who have seen it, they recall the experience of a lifetime—a moment so powerfully beautiful it touches the soul. Discover the glory of a fantastically rich culture, that of classical China, brought to life through brilliantly choreographed dance and mesmerizing, all-original orchestral compositions. Magnificently costumed dancers—the world’s elite— move in poetic arrangements that evoke pastoral beauty, imperial drama, and the glory of an ancient civilization. This season, discover what art was meant to be. Discover Shen Yun.

“Superb! Every performance was stunning.” — WNYC

“Brilliant choreography... extravagantly beautiful.” — BroadwayWorld.com

FOR 5,000 YEARS in China, culture was

“Incredible.” — MSNBC heralded as a divine gift. Its glory was long the inspiration of countless artists and poets, until this heritage was nearly lost… Based in New York, Shen Yun Performing Arts seeks to revive this once-majestic tradition by creating a production worthy in its beauty of this noble history—something that enriches the lives of audiences in powerful, lasting ways. Sunday 6:00pm

FEB. 26, 2012

KODAK HALL at EASTMAN THEATRE

ALL-NEW 2012 SHOW

Tickets: (585) 454-2100 www.rpo.org or area Wegmans $50, $60, $70, $90, $130

WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA

Information: (877) 519-0905 ShenYun2012.com

ShenYun2012.com

Presented by Upstate NY Falun Dafa Association

xx 41

february

contents ETC

platter chatter

fashion forward

leading woman

fabulous february finds

in her own words

local business matters

queen of arts

healthy woman

cover story: robin dewind

for a good cause

artists view

special feature: skin cancer

rw inspire

wisdom in a traffic jam

world of women sports

fitness

gardening diva

main event

rwm pets

say what

advertorial

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My name is Caurie Putnam and I am a writer for Rochester Woman Magazine. I am also proud to have been an Ambassador for MVP’s Generation Go. MVP Generation Go is dedicated to helping children and families embrace an active, healthy lifestyle.

4. Shopping together for ingredients is a great way to encourage my boys to help me cook – this is especially true at the farmers market. If I say “Help me pick out some corn to cook for dinner” they get excited to pick the perfect ears and then take them home to shuck.

Some of the ways MVP Generation Go accomplishes this is by offering free sports clinics for kids and by partnering with athletes that are great role models – like Rochester’s own Abby Wambach!

While farmers markets in the Northeast are typically held during the growing season (May – October) we are fortunate in Rochester to have a farmers market that is open year round! Rochester’s Public Market is located in the northeast quadrant of Rochester, at 280 North Union St. and is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays, 52 weeks a year.

MVP Generation Go also works to build families by supporting healthy cooking and eating. Like most mothers, this is something I strive to accomplish every day in my own family. One of the ways I encourage my sons Brice, 8, and Brady, 4, to eat healthy is to engage them in cooking meals with me.

I wanted to share a recipe the whole family can make together using the steps I mentioned above. My boys LOVE this meal – it is healthy, delicious, and easy to prepare together. It is also Crock Pot friendly and perfect for these cold winter days!

I have found that when my boys feel involved with preparing the food they are much more likely to eat it! So how do I engage my boys in cooking? 1. I purchased a cute little bench from a hardware store that allows the boys to reach the counter where I prepare meals. Often times when I am cooking they will wander over and onto the bench – allowing them to see what I’m doing always prompts them to get involved. 2. Child size aprons and cooking tools entice my younger son Brady to help me prepare meals, while allowing my older son to use the “grown up” tools (like a peeler and butter knife) appeal to him. 3. Music! The boys love when I put some music on in the kitchen while we cook. Anytime I attach the word “party” to a simple task the boys want to be involved. So if I turn the music on and say “It’s a Crock Pot Party!” they rush in to help peel carrots and cut potatoes.

Caurie and Boys’ Chicken Sweet Potato Stew

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces. 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed [I often use a small can of undrained candied Yams in addition to the fresh sweet potatoes - it gives the stew a delicious sweet flavor the kids love ] 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch slices 1 Can (28 ounces) of whole stewed tomatoes 4 white potatoes cubed 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon of celery seed 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper 1/8 teaspoon of ground nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon of cinnamon 1 can nonfat, low-sodium chicken broth 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped Directions 1. Combine chicken, potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, salt, paprika, celery seed, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg and broth in the slow cooker/Crock Pot 2. Cover, cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. 3. Sprinkle with basil just before serving. Makes 6 Servings Learn more about MVP Health Care at www.mvphealthcare.com and more about MVP Generation Go on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MVPGenerationGo

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ROCHESTER

WOMAN magazine

OUR TEAM... Publishers

Kelly Breuer Barbara McSpadden

Editor-in-Chief

Barbara McSpadden

Creative DIRECTOR Kelly Breuer

Graphic Design Jessica Bates Melissa Meritt

Letter from the PUBLISHERS “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched ... but are felt in the heart” --Helen Keller It’s appropriate that the month of February is associated with the color red. This time of year the weather is usually cold, cloudy, snowy, and just plain dreary. We need a splash of red to spice things up. It is fitting then, that this month we feature one of the National Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” Campaigns incredible local spokeswoman and her incredible story of courage! As a survivor of heart transplant surgery, she shares her story with others to make everyone aware of the importance of preventing heart disease. Read her compelling story on page 29, and bring a tissue. So we encourage you to go put on that red dress, or some of your hot red shoes, and show your support at the great events happening locally all month long. We’re sure you can’t help but recognize our cover woman in red, Robin De Wind, Sports Director for WHEC-TV. Robin is one of the few female sports directors, not only in the male dominated sports field, but also in all of Western New York. She has been honing her craft for nearly 30 years right here in Rochester and since taking her role in the men’s world of sports, has earned the respect of her peers and colleagues. Read her story on page 24. This month we begin an important three-part series on skin cancer and the epidemic it has become across the country. We have teamed up with Dr Sherrif Ibrahim, dermatologist with the University of Rochester, to bring our readers important information on the seriousness of this disease, the many treatments available and how it can be prevented. Dr. Ibrahim is one of two doctors in Upstate NY that perform Mohs surgery, the most effective and advanced treatment for skin cancer today. He has given us total access to his clinical technique, and next month we will take you through the step-by-step procedure with one of his many patients. Begin by learning what some skin cancer types, are and what they can look like on page 32. If you’re anything like us, you are enjoying the mild winter that Mother Nature has bestowed upon us this year. If you are a winter sports enthusiast, well, we’re sorry and maybe you will get your white winter next year. Enjoy your February issue and remember spring is right around the corner! We have some exciting things ahead for the magazine in the coming months so be sure to stay tuned... it’s going to be a great year for RWM and you won’t want to miss an issue!

Kell y & Barb On Our Cover...

Tiffanie Niger from Rocky Greco’s Salon and Ashley Knight from Panache Vintage and Finer Consignment provided the hair and make-up for our cover woman, Robin De Wind. Photography for the cover story was provided by Brandon Vick Photography.

February 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

Photography Linda Dow Hayes Inga Mucha Brandon Vick

Contributing Writers Steve Argento Jessica Bagley Sarah Jane Clifford Ashley Cooper Colleen Flaherty Frances Grossman Sherrif Ibrahim, M.D. Joan E. Lincoln Angella Luyk Mark Forrest Patrick Sraddha Prativadi, M.D. Caurie Miner Putnam Jillian Pastella Salomone Nicole Shein

Advertising Sales Lorna Lee

Advertise with us...

Unlike any other publication in the Rochester area, our feature articles address major topics that interest local women. Each issue includes articles on health, fashion, fitness, finance, home matters, dining, lifestyle and personal perspectives, as well as a spotlight on local Rochester women. Ads are due on the 15th of the month prior to publication. The print magazines will be distributed locally in over 300 locations and will be in your inbox electronically by the middle of every month. The publication is available free of charge. Contact our home office 585.924.4426 10 East Main Street Suite 301 Victor, NY 14564 info@rochesterwomanmag.com Download our media kit at www.rochesterwomanmag.com The magazine is published 10 times a year by InnovateHER Media Group, llc. 10 E. Main St., Suite 301, Victor, NY 14564. Copyright © 2012 InnovateHER Media Group, llc. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or republished without the consent of the publishers. Rochester Woman Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts, photos or artwork. All such submissions become the property of InnovateHER Media Group, llc. and will not be returned.

Etc... february movies...

2/10

The new journey begins when Sean Anderson receives a coded distress signal from a mysterious island — a place of strange life forms, mountains of gold, deadly volcanoes, and more than one astonishing secret. Sean’s new stepfather joins the quest. Together with a helicopter pilot and his beautiful, strongwilled daughter, they set out to find the island, rescue its lone inhabitant and escape.

The storyline follows the only surviving agent of an attack on a CIA safe house (Ryan Reynolds) as he tries to get a lethal prisoner (Denzel Washington) to a second safe house before being taken out by violent forces that want them both dead.

2/10

The world’s deadliest CIA operatives are inseparable partners and best friends until they fall for the same woman. Having once helped bring down entire enemy nations, they are now employing their incomparable skills and an endless array of high-tech gadgetry against their greatest nemesis ever - each other.

2/17 A Navy Seal squad goes on a covert mission to recover a kidnapped CIA agent, and, in the process, takes down a complex web of terrorist cells determined to strike America at all costs.

2/24

The Deadly Dames Burlesque Brings Their Vaudeville Show to Rochester

The Deadly Dames Burlesque is pleased to announce their debut show “Valentine’s Day with the Deadly Dames” on February 14, 2012 at the Multi-use Cultural Community Center (MuCCC) at 142 Atlantic Avenue in Rochester. The Deadly Dames Burlesque troupe was formed in 2011 by artistic director, Jacqueline Moe. Deadly Dames Burlesque is a professional dance company dedicated to reviving traditional burlesque dancing and vaudeville style performance with a political twist. The troupe plans to work with progressive womenfocused organizations in their philanthropy.

Moe originally studied dance at Nazareth Academy and went on to study dance at the University of Buffalo, in London at Laban and in Jamaica at Edna Manley College. She was a company member of the Buffalo City Ballet, the choreographer and performer of Spectacle of Saints and Sinners Burlesque in Rochester and serves as an artist in residence at MuCCC.

The Valentine’s Day show will feature comedic acts and traditional burlesque dance numbers. Joining the Deadly Dames will be The Public Market Band, led by Richard Storms. The evening will include musical, dancing and comedic performances. Wine and desserts will be served. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door, with additional package options available. Champagne and roses will be available as part of the couples and table ticket packages. Ticket information is available at www.muccc.org.

Richard Gere to Receive George Eastman Award George Eastman House International Museum of Photography and Film announces it will honor Richard Gere with the prestigious George Eastman Award on Feb. 16. The award recognizes Gere’s distinguished contribution to the art of film as well as his global humanitarian leadership. In accepting the honor, Gere joins the company of such film legends as Charles Chaplin, Cecil B. DeMille, Gary Cooper, Gregory Peck, Jimmy Stewart, Audrey Hepburn, Kim Novak, Martin Scorsese, and Meryl Streep. The George Eastman Award was established in 1955 as the first retrospective film award to honor artistic work of enduring value. Gere is an internationally renowned actor who has starred in more than 40 films. With early performances in Looking for Mr. Goodbar in 1977 and his breakout 1980 film American Gigolo Gere quickly ascended the ranks of leading men. Gere earned an Emmy® nomination for the HBO film And the Band Played On and Golden Globe® nominations for Officer and a Gentleman and Pretty Woman. For his celebrated role in the movie musical Chicago, he earned both Golden Globe® and Screen Actors Guild awards. Gere will receive the George Eastman Award in a ceremony in the Dryden Theatre, featuring a video compilation of his work. The event is open to the public. Tickets are available now for $125 per person and include valet parking, a seat in the Dryden Theater for the awards ceremony, and the gala reception followingFor more information about the 2012 George Eastman Award, please visit eastmanhouse.org or call (585) 271-3361 ext. 218.

Learn to dance your way to a healthy heart! Sat., February 25 10 am - 2 pm

EastView mall (Bon*Ton Court) FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS

Free Heart Healthy Wellness Information

Free drawings & Giveaways

Cholesterol Glucose Blood Pressure Body Fat % Cardiovascular Risk And more!

FREE dEmoNSTRATIoNS & dANCE LESSoNS Ballroom Jazzercise Swing

Nia Zumba

Visit ThompsonHealth.com/spirit for times and instructors

The first 20 people to register in advance for each dance lesson will receive a Day of Dance t-shirt. To register, call (585) 919-3899 or email spiritofwomen@thompsonhealth.org

WORKING OUR WAY BACK TO YOU! Returning to Rochester this April.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! (800) 745-3000 • www.rbtl.com Ticketmaster.com • Auditorium Box Ofﬁce

Photo: Chris Callis

April 3–29 Auditorium Theatre JerseyBoysTour.com Original Cast Recording On

sticky lips sugar mountain bake shot

BARBEQUE

by nicole shein I photos by brandon vick At Henrietta’s Sticky Lips BBQ,

they don’t do things by halves. Nope, things here are huge: one ton of charcoal per month; 11,000 square feet; over 300 seats; and 53 beers on tap. And then there’s the Atomic Bomb Challenge, in which an intrepid eater faces down a daunting five pounds of food in the short span of 30 minutes.

Yet owner Howard Nielsen is also impressively attentive to detail. Take the gorgeous red oak bar, which he stained himself; the 150-year-old beams salvaged from a Sodus-area barn and used to frame a raised seating area; or the custom-built sound system that helps that area double as a stage when Sticky Lips serves up live music, Wednesday through Saturday nights. Nielsen, an avid antiques collector, is a Rochester-area native, and shows his hometown pride through the local memorabilia on display in his restaurant. Old RTS signs, brewery advertisements, photographs, curiosities and conversation pieces (a stuffed black bear on skis, giant circus posters) provide a fun, fascinating backdrop for the Sticky Lips food experience.

First and foremost, there’s meat--and plenty of it. Ribs, beef brisket and pulled pork are all smoked, using a combination of apple and hickory woods, until they are tender and ready to be topped with one of Sticky Lips’s house-made sauces. While the All-American BBQ is probably the most popular, don’t skip the Cherry Bomb (well-balanced spice and sweetness) or the Betty’s Burning Lips (flavorful, with lingering medium heat). Ordering Uncle Frank’s chicken? Put the sauce aside, and focus instead on the crisp skin, juicy meat and smoke flavor that’s penetrated clear down to the bone, thanks to the aforementioned hardwood charcoal. Sticky Lips stays true to the BBQ tradition with its sides--collards, mac-n-cheese, several varieties of fries, mayo- and mustard-based slaws, BBQ or black beans. Here, the requisite square of cornbread is firm yet moist, with a moderate level of sweetness and an appealing golden crust. Unlike many meat-centric restaurants, whose only nod to vegetarians is a salad with some grilled salmon slapped on top, Sticky Lips offers several noteworthy veggie mains. Included

are a bourbon-marinated BBQ tofu steak, a lentil burger served “garbage”-style over sides, and an etouffee of peppers, squashes, eggplant and okra, combined in a mild tomatobased sauce and served over deep-fried tofu slabs and white rice. It’s a thoughtful lineup of meatless selections, which should make vegetarian diners feel appreciated. Also on the extensive menu are chicken and pulled-pork sandwiches, hamburgers, steaks, jambalaya, a few seafood options and the intriguing “Ultimate Mac & Cheese,” which adds Zweigle’s hot dogs and chili to the usual carb-and-cheddar mix. Appetizer aficionados can choose from the usual (nachos, fries with assorted toppings, chili, spinach-artichoke dip) and the unique (deep-fried pickles, grilled chicken drumsticks, and “Pig Wings,” fried pork ribs doused in Buffalo sauce). Tempted by that Atomic Bomb Challenge? You’d better be hungry--it’s a pound each of hamburger, pulled pork and fries, eight strips of bacon, a half pound of meat sauce and a quarter pound of cheese, all piled on a giant bun with lettuce, tomato and onion. Sticky Lips’s Henrietta location lives up to its billing as a “Juke Joint,” showcasing local bands whose music runs the gamut of genres: alternative, funk, rock, rockabilly, country and blues. There’s also line dancing on Tuesday nights, which Nielsen says “has become unbelievably huge”--like so many other things at this BBQ restaurant.

::fashion forward

maintain a healthy wardrobe By Joan E. Lincoln

Now this doesn’t mean more is better, it means make your wardrobe work efficiently for you! It’s time to get organized. We are at the end of our hibernating season so utilize this time to dig into your closet and separate the good from the bad and the ugly. Get yourself a professional organizer or stylists if you feel you need help. Gather your closest friends and make a party or fashion swap out of it! Just do it! Most of us tend to hold on to garments for a multitude of reasons. This bad habit makes our closest unhealthy and difficult to maintain.The process of organizing and purging is a fantastic process and can be very empowering. There is a sense of control when you successfully complete the process. Donating or consigning unwanted, ill-fitting or blasts from the past are ways to leave a green footprint in the process. Remember to visit your foundation and intimates collection too! You can even recycle your castaway bras at many locations, including NY State Bra Recycling Ambassador located at Panache Vintage & Finer Consignment. We have heard of “having your colors done” but have you actually experienced the process? The technique ranges in price and is well worth the average $150.00. I treated myself and a friend to the talents of Indigo Tones owner and color professional, Kerry Stitch. We now have our color swatches that I refer to about 75% of the time when considering a new piece to add to my wardrobe. My dear friend will only invest and wear clothing that is in her color story. No exceptions! I tend to be a bit more reckless, a bit of a fashion rule breaker I guess. But the process was fabulous and educational. Use this season to create a healthy closet full of wearable garments. Designs that make you feel good and look incredible. Be a bit more creative and take a few chances with a trend. Wear one trend at a time not all of them at once. Treat every day as a day to express yourself through Fashion! Play dress-up!

february 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

Joan E. Lincoln is the owner of Panache Vintage and Finer Consignment, 1855 Monroe Ave, www.joanlincoln.com.

::leading woman

By Nicole Shein I photo by linda dow hayes

The year 2007 marked the beginning of some pretty harrowing times for those involved in the housing and real estate industry— but for Kimberlie Barrett, president, broker and owner of Magellan®, Inc. Real Estate and Relocation, the economic slump that started that year was just a jumping-off point to retool for success. Granted, Barrett had already made a name for herself iin the industry. In fact, she was a success right out of the gate, earning a “Rookie of the Year” nod in her first year as a real estate agent, and spending only two and a half years working at an agency before launching her own business in 1984. “My initial speciality at the time was residential new construction says Barrett. “This was a unique specialization, one that most real estate agents knew very little about. As the housing bubble collapsed and the stock market plummeted, real estate agents across the country found themselves scrambling to stay afloat in the new economy--but not Barrett, who says, “I saw the opportunity to take advantage of a down market, to rally and put things in place that would continue to grow.” She turned her attention to the international, corporate, relocation, rental and commercial real estate markets alongside existing and new home sales, and today Magellan®. prides itself on its diversification and full-service approach. “With different divisions which allow us to serve a multitude of client needs under one roof, we can help anyone buy or sell anything, anywhere,” explains the broker. 12

february 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

Barrett leads a sales staff of over 14 sales professionals with six support staff. The company’s average agent has just under 20 years of experience, which is unusual for an industry that sees agents entering and exiting the business daily. “We are of a size where we can support each agent’s success because fewer agents allow us to invest more in the ones we have,” says Barrett. Although she takes a global approach and loves to travel, the native Rochestarian is also devoted to her home town. “Rochester is a phenomenal place to live, to work, to play,” she says, citing its proximity to both the scenic Finger Lakes region and to major metropolitan areas, as well as its universities, labor force and recreational opportunities. Additionally, Barrett gives back through involvement with the Rochester Rotary and the International Sister Cities program. “I love reaching out to people in other communities and helping build bridges that will initiate growth, business, tourism.” Another reason she loves living in upstate New York? The skiing-although she only took up the sport at age 38. Laughs Barrett, “this is the year that I am going to try to get good enough to ski with my children!” Kim was recently named a finalist for the 2012 Rochester Women’s Council Athena Award and winner of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® 2011 “Entrepreneur of the Year Award. You can contact Kimberlie Barrett at Kim@1Magellan.com or phone 585.325.3990 x 111 or on her cell, 585.233.6111.

Does someone you know need a doctor? Dr. Amanda Victory

is accepting new patients.

Call 585.256.3000. Services include: • Childbirth & family planning • Endometriosis & menopausal care • Cancer screenings • Minimally invasive surgery • Infertility, menstrual disorders and incontinence DR. VICTORY WILL BE JOINING:

Southeast OB/GYN

Raphael T. Tshibangu, MD, FACOG • Rita Clement, MD, FACOG Eufemia J. A. Mariano, MD, FACOG • Sylvia Farnand, MSNP Highland Hospital Physicians Office Building 990 South Avenue, Suite 104, Rochester, NY 14620 For more information, call 585.256.3000.

superfindsfo february ::fabulous finds

Date Night at the MAG

Step out of the old dinner-and-a-movie routine with Max at the Gallery Tapas Night. Enjoy half off gallery admission every Thursday evening from 5-9pm, and finish with Tapas, beer, wine, and live music at Max at the Gallery from 5-8pm. Through February 23rd, Max at the Gallery is offering a drawing for a gift package that includes; MAG guest passes, $20 Tapas coupon, $25 gift from the Gallery Store, creative workshop class discount, and a bottle of wine! For more details, call 585-276-8900 or visit www.mag.rochester. edu/events/slider-tapas-night/

2 14

February 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com february

1 love lynn designs

Specializing in unique custom jewelry and one-of-a-kind pieces, Love Lynn Designs offers beautifully hand crafted rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. Every piece is constructed from sterling silver or gold filled beads, Swarovski crystals, precious metals, fresh water pearls and semi-precious stones. Give your Valentine something truly unique and special this year. Shop online at www.ilovelynns.com.

or ary

::fabulous finds

Cut-it-out! Cookies This Valentine’s Day, think outside the box, of chocolates, that is! Cut-it-out! Cookies makes one-of-a-kind customizable cookies and cookie bouquets for any event! Place your order by calling 585721-9914, or emailing shawncatcookies@ gmail.com or visiting www.facebook.com/ cutitoutcookiesrochester.

Affair De Chocolat Scrumptous handmade chocolate truffles, barks, and caramels can be made to order at Affair De Chocolate in Penfield. Indulge in something unforgettable this Valentine’s Day! Place your order by calling 585-387-9111, or online at www.affairedechocolat.com.

Wine Candles and Bath Cupcakes Hand poured and locally made from all natural, high quality ingredients, Wick-edly Scent Soap and Candle Company’s candles and body products are the ideal gift for any occasion. Visit their store on Main Street in Canandaigua, (585) 394-5260 or online at www.escentedcandle.com.

rochester WomanMag.com :: february 2012

Photograph By: Allison McGrail

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There are more than 107,000 children like Tabetha available for adoption in the United States waiting for their forever family.

(with this ad offer expires 2/29/12)

Help Lift Tabethaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wait. CAP ID #1687 www.ChildrenAwaitingParents.org

::in her own words By Karina Anderson

“Melanoma.” Imagine my great surprise, not to mention utter fear, when I received a call from my dermatologist to tell me one of the moles he had recently removed was a melanoma. He actually told me I might want to sit down before he delivered the news. I also happened to be pregnant with my first child, so I was particularly worried. I started seeing a dermatologist when I was close to 30, wondering why my skin was giving me more trouble than when I was thirteen. During one of the visits, my dermatologist suggested doing a full body check, basically what seemed to be a quick once-over, a look between the toes, and peek at my scalp. I am fair-skinned, blonde and blue-eyed, of Scandinavian descent and grew up in the seventies when the sunscreen we had at our house was SPF 4 or maybe 8. Remember the cute Coppertone ad with the dog pulling on the little girl’s bikini to reveal her suntan? I vividly remember being slathered with aloe or Noxzema to relieve a bad sunburn. Then in my teen years, my friends and I would liberally apply baby oil and sun ourselves over aluminum foil, spending entire days at the pool. I recall several occasions when I had blisters and then peeled so badly I bled. In college, I remember going to the tanning beds and feeling like I was literally cooking myself to “get some color” for a sorority formal. Pictures from my honeymoon show a happy couple enjoying the beach, red as lobsters. With this type of history, I was encouraged to visit the dermatologist regularly for skin checks. I thought of it like I might about going to the dentist for a cleaning -- it’s just something you do to stay healthy. Over the course of the next few years, I had a handful of moles removed via punch biopsy, a quick office procedure, a couple of stitches, no big deal. Pathology showed them to be dysplastic nevi, what I understand to be moles that are just a little bit atypical, perhaps even pre-pre-precancerous. Then came news of the melanoma. It was a thin melanoma (0.4 mm) and found very early so it was completely treatable. I went to a surgeon who excised the site where the mole had been to make certain “they got it all.” The doctors aim for “clean margins,” meaning that they take a chunk of tissue around where the original mole was so there is no chance any cancerous cells are left to spread any further. The quick, outpatient surgery was done with a local anesthetic and was slightly more invasive with more stitches than the original biopsy. After this episode and, thankfully, delivering a healthy baby boy, my dermatologist suggested that I come in for skin checks 2 or even 3 times per year. Once you’ve had one melanoma, your chances of getting another one are higher. This past Fall, I went in for another routine skin check right before my son’s seventh birthday. Two days before Thanksgiving I received a call from the dermatologist telling me the mole she biopsied (“This one bugs me. This one looks a little strange.”) was a melanoma, again very thin and only 0.3 mm. Back for

another surgical excision and more stitches. Again I felt fear and now regret over having spent all that time in the sun. I was wondering, “Is this what is going to kill me?” My dermatologist assured me that my 5-year survival rate is 95%. I looked at him in shock and asked “FIVE years!?” Again, he assured me that this is just a figure used to describe that, having caught the melanoma at Stage 1-A (the earliest stage), my survival rate was the same as someone never having had a melanoma. It’s when the melanoma gets to 1 mm when the chances of it invading your system increase. Once that happens, it becomes difficult if not impossible to treat. I know a woman in her twenties who died from melanoma because it had ravaged her body. Now that I have had two, my risk of getting another is even higher. I am obviously even more determined about going for my regular skin checks and ultra diligent about using sunscreen on myself and my children who are even more fair-skinned than I. I wish that being tan wasn’t the preferred look. The sun causes horrible wrinkles and premature aging, too. Don’t be foolish. Learn from my experience. Stay out of the sun and away from the tanning beds. Use sunscreen. Protect your skin! Protect the skin of your children! Even one severe sunburn in childhood can double the chance of getting skin cancer. Go to a dermatologist for a skin check. Frankly, my two melanomas were on my back where I could not see them well enough to notice any Asymmetry, Border irregularities, Color differences, issues with size of the Diameter, whether they were Evolving (the ABCDEs of skin cancer). The incidence of melanoma has significantly increased in women ages 30-50. It is one of the most difficult cancers to treat once it gets too far. Just like many other diseases, melanoma can be treated when caught early. I am grateful to my dermatologists for saving my life. Go see a dermatologist for a skin check so it doesn’t become too late for you.

rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012

::local business matters By jessica bagley I photo by linda dow hayes

glow sunless

Safe

Providing a Tanning Alternative 18

February 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

For many women, the desire to be tan presents a difficult conundrum. Although the sun and tanning beds give a sun kissed, beautiful look, they also have harmful side effects—from aesthetic issues like dark spots to serious issues such as skin cancer. Glow Sunless Tanning Salon & Spa in Rochester offers a safe option for men and women alike. “My main goal is to provide a safe alternative to UV tanning,” said Anne Marie Marshall, the owner of Glow and a Rochester native, said. Marshall’s inspiration to open Glow came when she was living in Florida. As a bartender, she wanted to be tan, but did not have enough time to spend in the sun. So she looked into spray tanning. “I fell in love with it,” Marshall said. “A few people were doing it in Rochester, but it wasn’t a big thing.” Marshall moved back to Rochester, where she grew up, became a certified technician in spray tanning, and began her own mobile enterprise. Marshall traveled to her clients’ houses, custom tanning them based on their skin tone for three and a half years. Although the mobile business was very successful, it had its drawbacks. “There just wasn’t enough time in the day to get to everyone’s house,” Marshall said. “And I wanted to be able to expand.” To do so, Marshall opened a permanent salon, Glow Sunless Tanning Salon & Spa that specializes in custom spray tanning, hair, and makeup. Tanning appointments only take about 15 minutes, and the service is available for both men and women. “People don’t realize it will only take a short amount of time,” Marshall said. “But it is really easy to fit into your day.” Marshall and the other certified technicians use Southseas tanning solution, which is certified organic and parabon free. Marshall has acted as a nationwide distributor for Southseas for the last three years, selling the product and training other salons how to spray tan. In addition to their private clientele, Glow is active in the community, sponsoring benefits, donating gift cards, and working closely with cancer organizations. “We are always willing to help,” Marshall said.” Glow is also the official sunless tan sponsor of the INBF Natural Bodybuilding and Fitness competition. “I spray tan the contestants right at the show so they are stage ready,” Marshall said. Marshall is also the head sponsor of the Rochester Razorsharks Ladysharks Dance team. Marshall and her assistants tan the 19 dancers weekly before each Razorshark basketball game. Apart from sponsorships, Marshall is passionate about helping those with skin diseases, including skin cancer. Many of the clients have skin cancer, and Marshall often directs them to Dr. Sherrif Ibrahim, a dermatologist who specializes in skin cancer. “We are also sponsoring an evening with the doctor on skin cancer to teach young women to be safe,” Marshall said. Spray tanning is not only safe—it is easy, fast, and a full body tan only costs $40. “I truly believe it is the future of tanning,” Marshall said. Glow Sunless Tanning is located at 1551 Monroe Avenue. Visit them on the web at www.glowsunlesstanning.com

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400 Red Creek Drive, Suite 200, Rochester, NY14623 rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012 19

::queen of arts

February 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

::healthy woman By Sraddha Prativadi, MD

The root of my Sanskrit name “Sraddha” comes from the Sanskrit root “hrd” which means heart. I have long been fascinated with the workings of the heart both physical and metaphysical. I remember as a second grader being first fascinated with the physical workings of the heart and enthusiastically preparing a report for my teacher on the anatomy and blood flow of the heart. My passion for the heart, with its relentlessly contracting myocardium, the gatekeepers we call valves, intricate electrical system and amazing ability to adapt to conditions like pregnancy and childbirth, culminates every year in an opportunity to share the importance of tending to this vital organ with the women I care for. This month, brings attention to the Go Red campaign from the American Heart Association and the efforts to raise awareness of cardiovascular health issues in women. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, a fact I often have to remind patients of when I am barraged with questions about various, much less prevalent conditions that are yellowjournalized by the popular media. I believe that prevention is better than a cure. This is most true with heart disease. And, like with most things in life, it is not the big, dramatic things that we do, but rather the small, consistent daily habits that we have that determine the trajectory of our cardiovascular health. So while it is important to recognize the warning signs of a heart attack, stroke and cardiac arrest, it is important to develop lifestyle habits that will help create cardiovascular health. Still have those New Year’s resolutions of exercising 5-6 times per week for at least 30-45 minutes, eating a diet of whole foods rich with fruits and vegetables, minimizing stress and exposure to negative, cynical people and influences, and getting 8 hours of sleep a night? Turns out these are all good for heart health. Make sure you have established an empowering relationship with a health care professional and discuss your risk factors for heart disease. As time has passed, my fascination with the heart progressed to one on the metaphysical plane. Is it important to tend to the heart not just in terms of the hardworking muscle that it is, oxygen, blood and various lipid study panels? Of course it is. I believe people do die of a broken heart . . . or worse - living a less than fulfilling and vibrant life while not listening to one’s heart. Listen to your heart, or as is said in India “dil ki baat”, the speech of the heart, or “heart talk” Silencing one’s mind, self judgement and need for external approval and getting in tune with your “dil ki baat” leads to a more authentic life that is filled with purpose, meaning and passion that permeate all your activities and relationships. How exciting this is when it is achieved in one’s life!! Allow the love to pour out from your heart and resonate with those around you. Journal daily about dreams and aspirations that you have, and when the opportunities arise to manifest them in your life, grab them! Find the love within yourself and love yourself first. And for those of you still searching for an external source of love and romance this month, I leave you with this beautiful poem from Rumi, Ever since I heard my first fairy tale I started looking for you Not knowing how blind that was Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere They are in each other all along – Rumi Here’s to your heart health, physically, emotionally, and spiritually this February. Go Red for Women! Dr. Prativadi practices at Madonna OB/GYN. she can be reached at www. madonnaobgyn.com.

February 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

Signs of Heart Attack Chest discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes or comes back intermittently. It can be perceived as fullness, uncomfortable pressure, squeezing or pain. Discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. Cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. A heart attack does not always occur in the dramatic way that is portrayed in films. Symptoms are sometimes subtle and mild. If there is any question as to what the symptoms represent, call 911 because minutes make a significant difference in this situation. Signs of Stroke Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination Sudden severe headache with no known cause More About Stroke Immediately call 911 if any of these symptoms are experienced. You need to receive treatment with 3 hours to have the best outcome in decreasing disability or death. Cardiac Arrest Sudden loss of responsiveness No normal breathing More about cardiac arrest If you witness this to occur in someone, call 911 immediately and begin use of an AED (automatic external defibrillator) device. For More Information Visit GoRedForWomen.org

::healthy woman

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::cover story

Man

success in a

n’s World

::cover story

By Caurie Putnam I Photos by Brandon Vick

A Windy Day On this cold, showy morning, the typically bustling Spot Coffee on East Avenue in Rochester was nearly vacant. High winds, heavy snow, and a below freezing temperature kept many from going out on the barely passable roads. However, at a table by the window looking out to WHEC-TV, the station’s sports director was waiting for me with a big smile. Only someone that absolutely loved their job would have kept our interview that morning. And that’s Robin De Wind.

“I have the same enthusiasm for my job as I had when I started twenty five years ago,” De Wind said. “I feel lucky, blessed, to still do what I love.”

Rochester Roots De Wind’s career in journalism began and remains in her home city - Rochester. She and her older brother David grew up in Bushnell’s Basin – the daughter of Pat and the late Robert (Bob) De Wind. Her mother was a waitress and her father worked as a tower crane operator. “My Dad built the bridges and roads of Rochester,” De Wind said. “He was an incredibly hard working man.” The family was blue collar, working class, but it never dawned on De Wind until later in life that she came from a different socioeconomic class than many of her peers at Pittsford Sutherland. “My parents never set boundaries for David and me on what we could achieve,” De Wind said. “They taught us that we could do whatever we wanted to do.” Her family also taught her a lot about sports. David played basketball and baseball and the family went to every game. “My Dad taught me how to keep a baseball book to keep me busy at the games,” De Wind said. “I liked it. I’ve had a love of sports my entire life.” De Wind went on to keep the books for her brother’s varsity baseball team at Pittsford Sutherland and to cheer him on during his college career at SUNY Fredonia. When it came time for her own college career in 1981, De Wind chose St. John Fisher. She loved to write and wanted to study journalism.

Hard Work Continues De Wind has never regretted her college choice. “I absolutely loved Fisher,” De Wind said. “It was such a supportive atmosphere for me to develop in.” She worked hard both in and out of the classroom – working as a waitress and coat check girl to support herself – and learning from older classmates like Donna Dedee, her RA, whenever she could. “Even though journalism can be a competitive field everyone helped everyone at Fisher,” De Wind said. “It was like an unwritten rule.” During her senior year she scored an internship with WHECTV. Her first day of internship De Wind was assigned to get an interview with NY Yankees owner George Steinbrenner who was in town for a fundraising event. “That was it,” said De Wind, who had grown up in a Yankees loving home. “I was hooked. I knew this is what I wanted to do.” No Looking Back After graduating from college, De Wind’s first jobs were in radio broadcasting in Warsaw and Batavia as she built the off-air experience that was needed for television news at the time. “I ripped and read news off the wire and drove in the snow belt,” De Wind said. “But I loved it.” Pat and Bob De Wind were thrilled for their daughter. When she was working they would often drive towards Batavia so they could pick her up on the radio. They would park the car and listen to her broadcasts. Soon De Wind was not just reading national stories off the wire, she was reporting them live. At age twenty five she landed her first job in television news as a general assignment reporter with WROC-TV in Rochester. “I had the opportunity to cover great, huge, pieces of national news right here in Rochester,” De Wind said. “The Arthur Shawcross serial murder trails, the AMSA robbery, the Civil Rights trial, and the Ice Storm.” Jim Redmond, a former reporter with WHAM-TV, was a competitor of Robin’s during the formative years of her career. “People sometimes underestimated her because they saw an attractive young woman and didn’t understand how smart she really is,” Redmond said. “But Robin is a very good reporter and a very strong competitor.”

rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012

::COVER STORY Even though they were competitors, Redmond respected De Wind greatly. “Robin is a very good storyteller,” Redmond said. “That is the secret to great reporting.” On Health As positive as De Wind’s early years were, though, she suffered a huge loss at age 27 when her father passed away. “He, along with my Mom, had always been my support system,” De Wind said. “He would have loved to see where I am now.” De Wind’s father never saw the next step in her career: medical reporter for WHEC-TV 10. She was the first full-time medical beat reporter in Rochester when she began the position in 1997. “With medical reporting I learned a new level of empathy,” De Wind said. “I enjoyed the people I met. It was often very humbling.” De Wind had the opportunity to work with Redmond again when she was a medical reporter. He is now the VP of Communications and Community Investment for Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield. “Robin has always been able to change and adapt in an ever changing business,” Redmond said. “She’s done hard news, health, anchoring, and now sports.” De Wind was promoted to Sports Director at WHEC-TV in 2008. “It came as a surprise and was a huge learning curve,” De Wind said. “But I love it. It’s a good fit.” A New Game Becoming sports director without sports reporting experience could have been an impossible curveball to handle to some journalists, but not De Wind. Instead, she has used her years of experience in hard news and medical reporting to her advantage in a male dominated segment of journalism. The 2011 Associated Press Sports Editors Racial and Gender Report Card showed that just 6% of sports editors and 11% of sports reporters nationwide are women. The percentage for both in the western New York market is much lower. “Usually I’m the only women at press conferences now,” De Wind said. “But I don’t spend a lot of time thinking about it. I’m a professional and I’m treated professionally back.” De Wind says she enjoys bringing a different angle to sports reporting beyond the x’s and o’s of traditional sports broadcasting. “I think I sometimes ask questions that are different then the questions athletes are used to getting,” De Wind said. “I ask ‘How are you feeling?’ and questions that are emotionally provoking.” De Wind has felt welcomed by the Rochester sports community, such as former Rochester Amerk Rory Fitzpatrick, who is the new executive manager of the Sports Centre at MCC. “Robin is very professional and respectful,” Fitzpatrick said. “She’s fair and a pleasure to work with. When Robin calls you want to give her the time.”As much as Robin enjoys covering the big teams in Rochester and the Bills on their summer turf at her alma mater, she particularly enjoys covering high school athletes. “Scholar Athlete Tuesday is a favorite of mine,” De Wind said. “I really enjoy talking to these kids that are going to be doing great things down the road.” De Wind finds many of the young men she interviews reminiscent of her brother, David. A Brother’s Words David De Wind remembers his sister at his Little League games wearing his old jerseys and shagging balls. To see her now anchoring sports and as the only female sports anchor in western New York fills him with pride.

February 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

“Robin is so good at what she does and such a good person,” David said. “You can’t love her enough.” David knows their father would be so proud to see where Robin’s career has taken her. “He would be watching her every night with such pride and telling everyone he met to watch Channel 10,” David said. “When she smiles at the end of her segment she always has this little twinkle in her smile and that’s our Dad.” When Bob De Wind passed away in 1991 Robin had opportunities to leave Rochester for larger markets, but chose to stay to be near her mom, David said. “Our parents sacrificed everything for us,” David said. “And Robin has never forgotten that.” The Right Choice De Wind is glad her career never took her outside Rochester. “My priorities were here,” De Wind said. “I feel completely connected to my community and therefore am deeply connected to my viewers.” Redmond agrees. “Robin is part of that core group of female reporters that were born and raised here,” Redmond said. “Covering the community well is important to them because it’s their community.” But the biggest reason in De Wind’s choice to stay in Rochester has been another little girl that loves sports: her daughter Sophie De Wind. “Sophie grounds me,” De Wind says. “She puts my career into perspective.” De Wind has always exposed Sophie, 8, to what she does by talking to her about her job and letting her watch her work. On her desk at WHEC-TV is a photo of Sophie as a baby smiling at her mom on the television. “It’s important that she knows what I do and that when I’m away from her it is because I am doing something for her,” De Wind said. De Wind’s colleague Nikki Rudd, an anchor and reporter at WHEC-TV, has always marveled at the grace in with which De Wind balances motherhood and journalism. “It takes an amazing person to balance this business and having a family,” Rudd said. “But Robin is able to balance it all. You don’t see that too often.”

“My Dad taught me how to keep a baseball book to keep me busy at the games. I liked it. I’ve had a love of sports my entire life.”

::cover story

rochesterWomanMag.com ::january 2012

::for a good cause By Jessica Bagley

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death of women in the U.S. Nearly five times as many women (200,000) will die from heart attacks alone this year than will die from breast cancer. Heart disease threatens all women, even those as young as 30 and 40. Luckily, the chances of developing heart disease can be reduced by taking healthy, preventive steps. This month, the American Heart Association is taking part in American Heart Month, a movement to raise awareness about healthy living, preventive care, and recognizing signs of heart disease.

“I knew I had to try to hold on and do what I can,” Zimmerman said. “But contemplating death takes a toll on you. Thinking about what would happen to my kids…it was very difficult.” Luckily, a donor match was found in Denver. But because of the distance between New Orleans, where Zimmerman was in the hospital, and Denver, the doctors told Zimmerman she would be on the table, with her heart out when the donor heart arrived. If there were any problems transporting the donor heart, Zimmerman would die.

The Association also sponsors the Go Red for Women campaign, which celebrates the power of women to combat the disease. A local woman, Ginger Zimmerman, is a spokesperson for the campaign. Zimmerman was 32 when she was told she had 5-8 years to live. That was 14 years ago.

Meanwhile, Zimmerman’s husband was working in the Gulf of Mexico. When he heard about his wife’s surgery, he arranged a helicopter transport back to the States, and was sitting in the passenger seat when the helicopter crashed. The crash was minor, and they were able to continue on their way.

“That wasn’t enough,” Zimmerman, 46, said. “To get more [years], I had to absolutely take responsibilities for my health.”

“My husband arrived as I was about to leave for surgery,” Zimmerman said. “He was running off adrenaline, and kept saying how happy he was that he made it to me despite the crash.”

Zimmerman’s story began when she was 28, living in Baton Rouge. She contracted a virus, and the doctors did not know what it was. Four years later, she was still feeling exhausted. “I kept going to doctors because I knew something was wrong,” Zimmerman said. “And they kept telling me that as the mother of three kids, being tired is normal. But I knew it wasn’t.” Un f o r t u n a t e l y, Zimmerman was right, and her condition deterioratd quickly. Finally, a doctor sent her to the hospital. “The doctor said my heart was barely working at 15%,” Zimmerman said. “I asked about possible medications, and he said ‘you don’t understand, you are dying.’”

Zimmerman survived the surgery, and her husband took the three kids back home to Baton Rouge for the night. That night, Zimmerman’s husband was transported to the hospital. He couldn’t see or move, and the doctors found that he had an impact tear in an artery in his brain from the helicopter crash. It was inoperable. “It was very, very hard,” Zimmerman said. “I told him I loved him on the phone, and he said I love you too, and that was the last time I heard him.” His organs saved five lives—and his heart went to a man that was in the hospital with Zimmerman. Since that night in 1998, Zimmerman moved to Rochester and began a motivational speaking career, inspiring women to lead healthier lives. She is also a spokesperson for the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign. In September, she had another openheart surgery to replace a damaged valve. “It’s tough, but I had an opportunity to get better and it’s worth it,” Zimmerman said. “Heart surgery wasn’t a cure—I had to make changes. It means portion control, it means exercise. At fourteen years, I’m alive because I’ve done these things.” You can learn more about Ginger’s story at gingersheart.com.

So Zimmerman went on the heart transplant list—and waited.

rochester WomanMag.com :: february 2012

::artists view By Steve Argento

As an art dealer in Rochester for over 15 years, I have had the pleasure of meeting and representing many artists, both local and international. One artist stands out due to her unique style and ability to create demand for her art. Rochester artist and Irondequoit native Sara Pulver has excelled in the “art” of selling art through the internet. I first met Sara in early 2002 while she was working in a frame shop, and immediately was taken in by her calming demeanor. It was then that I was first introduced to her work. Wonderfully original and unmistakably all Sara. Quirky, unique and quite reminiscent of Art Brut and Outsider Art pioneers Jean Dubuffet and Henry Darger, Pulver adds her own touch of whimsy and humor to her art. Her recurring animal motifs, such as the popular “Cat and Crow” series, juxtapose humans and animals in familiar day to day settings, giving the animals the human traits. Working primarily in acrylics and collage, Pulver also has great command of color, tending to stay in deep jewel tones giving the viewer a sense of warmth and serenity. This Irondequoit native grew up in West Irondequoit and has lived in Sea Breeze for the past ten years, citing the beauty of Lake Ontario as one of the main reasons for staying native to the Rochester region. She draws inspiration from the people, places and life lessons, expanding on them creatively.

There is a whimsical nature to Sara Pulver’s artwork that automatically puts a smile on the face of the viewer. Being a creative soul, she can get bored sticking to just one style or medium, she keeps things fresh by making up new characters. Pulver is also collaborating with American Wood Craft artist and partner, Felix Caruthers, creating unique folk art styled fabric dolls that set in their own little worlds. Pulver is now an accomplished full-time artist, selling her work on both the internet and through exhibits since 2001. She originally began offering her unique style of art on eBay and then moved over to Etsy, what now is considered the best portal for selling original and unique arts and crafts. Her Etsy Shop, 3 crows, has a diverse selection of original paintings, prints, ACEOs, and greeting cards. Pulver has recently been fielding inquiries into licensing her art and can also be commissioned by collectors. The opportunities the internet has given her as an artist have been nothing short of astounding. As a hard to classify artist, her web presence has brought her international collectors, exhibit opportunities and boutique craft and art galleries that now sell her work. A few short years ago this unassuming artist was framing other artists’ work and now possibly, some other aspiring artists are framing her work in places all across the country like Chicago, Tennessee, Georgia and California.

Pulver states “I have a random, wandering way of creating, and most of the stuff I do now starts out that way, but pretty quickly tightens up into more of a message kind of piece. I think people like something to hold on to. Not literally but symbolically.”

In addition to her Etsy shop 3Crows, the unique and quirky art of Sara Pulver can be found locally at SC Fine Art Gallery in Rochester, NY where she is currently exhibiting her originals, prints and cards. You can also view and purchase Pulver’s prints and cards at the Memorial Art Gallery’s Gift Shop and RIT’s Shop One2.

Even as an art dealer, where art is sometimes viewed as just a commodity, I fell in line along with numerous collectors across the country, happily purchasing 12 original acrylics and several prints on the spot.

Steven Argento, owner of the Ramón Santiago Studio and SC Fine Art Gallery, located at 179 Atlantic Ave, is a fine art publisher, artists’ agent and industry consultant with over 15 years experience representing fine artists and galleries.

rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012

::special feature

By Sherrif Ibrahim, M.D., Ph.D.

This is part one of a three part series addressing the skin cancer problem in America. Our next 2 issues will deal with treatment methods and then prevention of skin cancer. The incidence of skin cancer in this country has reached nothing short of epidemic proportions with no sign of relent. Recent analyses estimate that the number of skin cancers treated annually in the United States approaches 3,000,000, far exceeding that of all other human malignancies combined and these numbers continue to rise dramatically. To put these figures in perspective, this translates to a 1 in 3 lifetime risk of developing skin cancer for fair-skinned Americans. The cost to the health care system ranks skin cancer 5th among human cancers, which is remarkable given that these are treated in an outpatient setting without expensive hospital, operating room, laboratory, or radiological costs, and without the use of traditional chemotherapy. Contrary to the assumption that northern latitudes are not affected by this epidemic, the Greater Rochester Area has not been spared from the inundation of skin cancer. Our population of farmers, golfers, and snowbirds contributes to an abundance of skin cancer that keeps local dermatology offices quite busy. In fact, the University of Rochester Medical Center Department of Dermatology has two offices dedicated solely to the treatment of skin cancer. What skin cancer looks like: There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell cancer (BCC), squamous cell cancer (SCC), and melanoma. Contrary to what most people think, skin cancers are not typically big black ugly marks on the skin. When BCCs and SCCs show up, they commonly appear as a small dome-shaped papule, or a flat scaly pink area of skin located on sun exposed areas of fair-skinned individuals. They occasionally bleed, scab, or become crusted.The first time someone has a skin cancer usually the last thing on their mind is that this is something serious. What usually brings someone into the dermatology office is that this spot that looks like a pimple or small scab just does not go away and slowly keeps getting bigger. If something is bleeding and you do not remember cutting yourself, or you see blood on your pillow from a spot on the back of your ear or on your scalp, there is a good chance that this is a small, growing skin cancer that needs treatment.

February 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

What is skin cancer? Remember that our skin is our first line of defense against invading micro-organisms like bacteria and viruses as well as our shield from harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun (and from artificial sources such as tanning beds). When skin cells accumulate damage from a lifetime of sun exposure, they can begin to grow abnormally and at an uncontrolled rate. These cells do not grow properly and do not attach to one another the way skin cells do normally. If you imagine normal skin to look like a nice organized brick wall of individual cells, cancer cells are disorganized and piled up upon one another in a heap. These cells divide faster than the normal surrounding skin, and as they grow, they invade the surrounding skin and underlying structures such as muscle, bone, and cartilage. As the cancer continues to grow it can potentially spread into blood vessels and lymph channels. Once this happens, then cancer cells have access to other parts of the body and can spread, or metastasize, to other organs. Luckily, the most common types of skin cancer rarely metastasize in otherwise healthy individuals. However, melanoma does have a high propensity of spreading to different organs and once this occurs, current treatment options are very limited. Types of Skin cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Basal cell cancer is by far the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases in the United States. The name “basal cell” comes from the type of cell that these cancers originate from – the basal cells are the bottom row of cells in the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis). BCCs can appear in the skin as a small red or pink dome, a small thin scaly area of skin, or a spot that scabs over repeatedly but never heals. These cancers can be tender, bleed, change color, itch or cause crusting of the skin. BCC’s grow very slowly and almost never spread to other areas of the body. However, although they typically do not spread to different organs and are rarely, if ever, life threatening, they can cause a great deal of damage by being locally destructive and ‘eating away’ at whatever they grow into. BCCs continue to grow and grow and cause a great deal of damage and destruction. Remember that these cancers occur in sun exposed areas (80% on the head and neck), which means that they are most commonly found on areas such as the nose, lips, ears, or eyelids, and surgery to these areas to remove BCCs can often be extensive if they are not treated early.

Squamous cell carcinoma (PRON: skway-mus): SCCs are the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 15% of all cases. Because, like BCCs, they start in the outer layer of skin, the two often can look very similar in appearance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; small crusted or scaly growths in sun exposed areas that bleed easily and never go away. SCCs differ from BCCs in that on rare occasions, they can invade the blood or lymph vessels in the skin and metastasize to other organs, most commonly lymph nodes in the neck. Once this occurs, additional and often extensive surgery and radiation is needed to control the cancer. With both SCCs and BCCs the portion of the tumor that is visible on the skin may only partially represent the true extent of the cancer, as they often have roots or fingerlike projections that can extend outwards or downwards. Melanoma: Although melanoma is nowhere near as common as BCC and SCC, it carries a much more serious prognosis. Suprising to most people, melanoma accounts for only 4% of skin cancer but we hear about it so much because it causes about 80% of deaths due to skin cancer. The cells that produce the color, or pigment, in our skin are called melanocytes, and when cancer develops in these cells, it is known as melanoma. In the United States, one person dies from melanoma every hour. It is the seventh most common type of cancer amongst American women, however, it is the most common cause of death due to cancer in younger women and the incidence of this disease continues to increase tremendously. Melanoma is a completely different entity than BCC or SCC and cancers of one type cannot transform in to the other types. Melanoma has a different appearance on the skin than BCC or SCC. These lesions are often irregularly shaped dark (or hyperpigmented) spots that can be either flat or raised. They can but do not necessarily bleed, scab, or crust. A mnemonic exists to help remember the concerning features of a melanoma: ABCDE. A: Asymmetry, B: Border Irregularity, C: Color variation (different colors and shades within the same spot), D: Diameter greater than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), E: Evolution â&#x20AC;&#x201C; has the spot been changing? Areas on the skin that meet these criteria can be a sign for concern and should prompt a visit to a local dermatologist. As with

any cancer, the earlier melanoma is discovered, the better the chances are for survival. Research has shown that the best predictor for how a patient will fare is how thick the melanoma is when it is measured by the pathologist. Thin melanomas carry a very good prognosis and have a very low chance of spreading to other parts of the body. Once melanomas have the chance to grow thicker, the chances for metastasis increase. If the cancer spreads to other organs, our current treatment options are very poor and chances for survival decrease. Know your body: Change is everything With any of the three main types of skin cancer, changes in the skin are most important. Because the skin is on the outside of the body, we have the advantage of being able to see and examine it without the need for x-rays or other medical tests. Being familiar with your skin and detecting new or changing areas is very important for the early detection of areas suspicious for skin cancer. Small bumps that continue to enlarge, sometimes bleed and never heal completely should prompt a visit to the dermatologist. New irregular dark moles or changes to existing moles that meet the ABCDE criteria are also reasons for a skin check. Suspicious lesions can be biopsied by your doctor and evaluated by a pathologist. Those that are confirmed as skin cancer will need additional treatment and these options will be discussed in Part II of this series. In the meantime, the best advice is to get to know your skin so that if any potential skin cancers appear, you will spot them early and have them looked at. Next Month: Part Two-Treatment of Skin Cancer: Mohs Surgery Sherrif Ibrahim, MD PhD is Assistant Professor of the URMC Department of Dermatology and the Wilmot Cancer Center. His practice is focused on procedural and surgical dermatology including the management of skin cancer with Mohs surgery.

rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012

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UCVA Physicians, left to right: David Fries, Matthew Funderburk, Ryan Hoefen, Peter Kringstein, Barbara Kircher, PK Mathew, Marc Odorisi, George Pancio II, Tejan Patel, Nathan Ritter, Abrar Shah, Sarah Taylor, Joan Thomas, Robert Vannozzi, Maurice Varon, Daniel Williford

Save the Date March 30, 2012

A Toast to Spring Wine Tasting Join Us in Celebrating 40 Years of creating families Hyatt Regency Rochester 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Silent Auction Live Auction Guest Pourers Food Wine Fun Last year’s event sold out so purchase your tickets today by contacting David at 585.232.5110 or David@capbook.org www.ChildrenAwaitingParents.org

Inspire

rochester women

Deborah Stamps

Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer, Newark Wayne Community Hospital

BY Ashley Cooper I PHOTO BY linda dow hayes

Deborah Stamps stresses the value of relationships above all else. “Listening is an art,” Stamps confesses. In terms of her commendable profession of serving the community via the healthcare system, Stamps is adamant about creating and maintaining palpable relationships among her patients and co-workers. “We need to make sure that we are looking at things through different lenses,” she insists, “because what I see as a leader can be different than what the patient sees.”

Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer at Newark Wayne Community Hospital, Deborah Stamps was born in England, but attended grammar school and high school in Rochester. She credits her mother and grandmother as having been driving forces in her life; they were as fiercely caring as they were independent, and Stamps still acknowledges them as her primary influences. Of her mother, Stamps jokes, “You think I have a lot of energy? You’ve got to see her!” In regard to her past, Stamps states, “a lot of sacrifices were made” as she began her formal education at Monroe Community College after having become a mother at 17 years old. She became an LPN and was thereafter encouraged by other efficacious women in her life to further pursue her education. Stamps also studied at SUNY Brockport, Nazareth College, and recently attained a doctorate at St. John Fisher College. “Going back to school meant a better lifestyle for my daughter and better opportunities for me professionally.” Stamps stresses that patient-care is the most rewarding aspect of her career. “It’s an honor and a privilege;” Stamps says, “patients are coming to us at their most vulnerable state.” Stamps and her team have the responsibility of ensuring the highest level of care to said patients of Newark-Wayne Community Hospital.

Stamps also dedicates much of her time outside of Newark-Wayne to educating her community about health-care. Such education is extensive and varies from informing members of the community on how to better prevent themselves from widespread disease, or encouraging aspiring high school students, male and female, to consider a career in healthcare. “I think I’m an adrenaline junkie,” she attests, but she insists that in whatever she devotes herself to, “there has to be an outcome. The outcomes are what drive me to do more.” Being active within the community has always been important to Stamps. Due to her outstanding level of ministry, Stamps has been the recipient of many prestigious awards including the Sojourner Truth Award, the Ralph C. Wilson School of Education Leadership Award, and being added into the Monroe Community College Foundation’s Alumni Hall of Fame. She currently serves within a variety of respectable organizations including American Nurses Association, Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc., and Metropolitan Women’s Network-Chapter of the National Council of Negro Women, to name a few. A common premise for many of these organizations is the empowerment of women. “Women have gut instincts. We have to listen to our inner selves.” Stamps also insists that it benefits women to engage in self-reflection. According to Stamps, women all too often seek answers from the outside when it lies within them all along. It’s no question that Stamps is truly the “adrenaline junkie” she claims to be. “It’s a balance,” she claims, “you can’t go through it alone.” Stamps explains that part if her success is knowing where the resources are in the community and knowing the strengths of those she is working with so that the team can excel together. In addition, for Stamps, part of securing a fulcrum in her life comes with attaining the occasional manicure, pedicure, and of course, engaging in a little retail therapy.

rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012 rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012

35 35

“ I chose cardiology because it was my first love,.” Joan Thomas, MD

Chief of Cardiology at Unity Hospital BY Caurie Miner Putnam I PHOTO BY linda dow hayes Some doctors are called to medicine because it is in their blood - Joan Thomas was called to medicine because it was in her heart. At age four Thomas, who grew up in Port Washington, NY on Long Island, was struck with the potentially fatal rheumatic fever. “I made a full recovery,” said Thomas, who spent much time in the hospital. “But ever since that wanted to be a nurse. It was my lifelong dream and I never wavered from that.” Thomas did become a nurse after graduating from high school – just like many young women did in the 1960s. “Before Title 9 young women were basically given four options for a career…nurse, secretary, homemaker, or teacher,” Thomas said. “I of course chose nurse.” But unlike most women who went into nursing at the time, Thomas’ path took a different route. After working as a nurse for six years in Syracuse, Thomas became a nurse practitioner. Then, at the age of 28 she began medical school at Upstate Medical. “It wasn’t until I was a nurse and a nurse practitioner that I realized I had the potential to be a physician,” Thomas said. “I had no women role models, but I told myself ‘I can do this.’ ” Thomas was one of a handful of women in medical school class. She became even more of a minority when it was time for her to choose her specialty: cardiology. “I chose cardiology because it was my first love,” said Thomas, who spent five years of her nursing career in cardiac critical care. She was also sponsored through her nurse practitioner certification program by cardiologist Dr. Robert Eich. After completing her residency in cardiology at the University of Rochester’s Strong Memorial Hospital, Thomas spent eight years at Highland Hospital before moving to Park Ridge Hospital (now Unity Hospital). She is currently the Chief of Cardiology at Unity Hospital and is a cardiologist at University Cardiovascular Associates (UCVA), a privately owned cardiovascular practice with offices in Brighton, Greece, Geneseo and Dansville. Thomas is also the president elect of the medical staff at Unity Hospital – a position she was elected to by her peers. “I wear many hats,” said Thomas, who says her favorite are interacting with her patients and teaching. Loraine Broadwell, 84, of Irondequoit, has been a patient at Thomas’ the past twenty years.“She’s an excellent doctor,” Broadwell said. “She’s kind, caring, and always interested in my family.”And Kathy Santangelo has spent the past eight years learning from Thomas as one of her staff. While Thomas teaches residents at Unity, she believes mentoring and teaching by example is something physicians should impart to everyone they work with, not just fellow physicians. “Dr. Thomas is a wonderful teacher,” said Santangelo, a Clinical Patient Care Technician Supervisor for UCVA’s Greece location. “Whether we have a quick question or a more involved question about an EKG she always takes the time with us. We are always learning from her.” When Thomas is not working, she enjoys tennis and golf. She is a former long distance runner, having run seventeen marathons, including Boston three times. It was through running that Thomas met her husband Clayton Miller, an engineer. She is the step-mother of three and step-grandmother of seven. Even in her hobbies Thomas’ patients factor in.

february 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

“I try to be a role model,” Thomas said. “How can I talk to them about having a healthy heart if I don’t?”

“You don’t want to pass something up that might be a great opportunity for you.”

Nadly Thompson

Director Of Mental Health Services at Correctional Medical Care By nicole shein I PHOTO BY Linda dow hayes As the Director of Mental Health Services at Correctional Medical Care, a private company which serves both Monroe and Niagara County Jails, Nadly Thompson has to be able to react quickly, make decisions on the fly, and generally be prepared for any contingency. This flexibility certainly serves her in good stead now—and may also be part of what led Thompson to her current career. While she was studying to earn her master’s degree in social work, Thompson had some definite aspirations for life after graduation. “I had my mind set on what I was going to do. I was going to graduate and work with abused children,” she explains, “but I haven’t worked with children since the day I graduated. I didn’t want to work with groups, but I ended up being a group therapist for six years, and I loved it. There are so many different opportunities in the social work field—you don’t want to pass something up that might be a great opportunity for you.” It was during her stint as a primary-care therapist that Thompson found herself “in the right place at the right time” to become involved with the Monroe County jail system. “I just wanted to pick up extra work, and they had an opening for daytime social worker,” she says. “I started in February 2010, and that June, I was offered the director position.” Not long afterward, Thompson was offered a position as interim program director for the Niagara County jail system, a position which later became permanent. Now she is in charge of the Mental Health Department in both jails, and her responsibilities include assisting with intakes, coordinating services, dealing with crises as they arise and liaising with the criminal justice system to provide the best possible care for the inmate population. Each day begins with a morning meeting, during which Thompson and her staff—over a dozen employees at Monroe County, just a handful at the smaller Niagara County—sift through cases, make assignments to nurses and social workers, and perform what she calls “triage of what’s going on in the jail.” Despite never having envisioned herself in this position, Thompson’s job satisfaction is evident, but she’s also found a new professional passion—teaching. She recently taught her first class, Human Services 102, as an adjunct professor at MCC. “I had a great group of students and it was a lot of fun to teach them,” she says of the experience. Thompson also adores having fun with her own children, 8-yearold Cameron and his little sister Hannah, 6. “My kids love to be outdoors, and to swim. Both of them are into sports—my daughter plays softball and my son plays soccer,” she says. “We also try to do some of the fun stuff that’s unique to Rochester, like going to the Strong Museum of Play.” And in her spare time? “I read—a lot,” Thompson laughs. She adds that she’ll read almost any genre or individual title, especially if it’s recommended to her, but that she leans towards mysteries and thrillers. Like many bibliophiles, she has an e-reader, but hasn’t entirely embraced it. “I have a Nook, which is nice for traveling, but there’s something about a real book,” muses Thompson. “I enjoy going to the bookstore, grabbing a cup of coffee and just walking up and down the aisles, looking for books.”

rochester WomanMag.com :: february 2012

::wisdom in a traffic jam Dear Angella, With all the bad press corporations have been getting how do I assure my customers that we are a company they can trust? Andrea The concept of ethics is attracting lots of attention in today’s business environment. At its core, ethics are a body of moral principles and values. Properly implemented, a strong ethical foundation is a company’s greatest asset. The Rochester Area Business in Ethics Foundation (RABEF) recognizes there is a growing belief among businesses large and small: those which take the time to define, implement, and maintain strong ethical practices will experience positive growth in nearly all aspects of their operations–employee fulfillment, retention, customer satisfaction, referrals, reputation, sales, and profits (for more information visit www.rochesterbusinessethics.com). That’s all well and good but how does a business initiate the process of establishing a strong business ethic? Think of it as a four step process: describe, assess, implement, and maintain. Describe how your company perceives its ethical vision. In other words, what does your company believe to be important and vital to its overall health? What role does your company fulfill within its business and civic community? Fundamental issues include employee satisfaction, community service, environmental commitment, customer respect, honesty and integrity. Assess how your company’s behaviors support your company’s ethical vision. This requires careful examination of internal practices. For example, if you feel employees are satisfied within your organization then take a survey to see if your company’s perception matches that of your employees. Examine diversity within your work force. Consider how your business handles conflict and the resulting outcomes. Research your procurement policy for environmental impact. Ask your customers how they feel about your services and/or products. Implement change where it’s needed. Start with communications. Make sure your company’s Code of Ethics is emphasized and accessible to every employee. If you don’t have a Code of Ethics then revisit the first step (Describe) and articulate one. If there is a discrepancy between how your staff feels and what your company thought they felt, then pinpoint the gaps and change it. Can you increase opportunities for employee growth and professional development? Do your conflict resolution procedures support your Code of Ethics? Have you tested it? What can you do to demonstrate that your product and/or services are supported with honesty and integrity? In other words, “walk the talk.” Maintain your business ethic by establishing consistency in your operations. Ensure you have the communications and systems in place to pass your company’s belief system on to new employees. If your business expands its products or services make sure the support system is consistent with your ethical commitment. So think of an established business ethic as a long-term investment. If done correctly, your business will be healthier from the top shelf to the bottom line.

February 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

::world of women sports

New & Improved

Sometimes in order to advance in her field of endeavor, a female athlete must make changes and quite often those changes involve the mind.

inhibit performance. Insight into this problem may release natural dominance and improve success.

There is an organization, Behavioral Associates, located in the Carnegie Hill section of Manhattan’s Upper East Side that is staffed by psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Enhancing Motivation: An athlete must maintain the desire to practice and win in order to be successful. Fatigue, boredom, burn out, fans, and endorsement commitments are a few of the many distractions that athletes must face.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy provides its clients including athletes with practical and powerful skills that can be applied over a lifetime to reduce discomfort and improve levels of functioning. Elite athletes need to learn the proper tools based upon behavioral techniques to help them improve focus and screen out anxiety and anger. Here are some of the thoughts and findings of Behavioral Associates:

Common Psychological Issues It is often necessary to resolve emotional problems so that athletes can consistently achieve their full potential. Here are some of those issues.

Performance Enhancement Elite athletes need to learn the proper tools based upon behavioral techniques to help them improve focus and screen out anxiety and anger. Here are some of those issues.

Sports Injuries: Psychological issues often produce injuries and can slow proper recovery as well. Fear, impatience, and depression are feelings that must be addressed if the injured athlete is to make a full recovery. Drug Counseling: Recreational and performance enhancement drug use is a widespread problem in sports. If left unattended, this problem can be career threatening.

Anxiety Control: Anxiety, commonly called “choking,” is inevitably felt by every athlete. His or her ability to master it will determine how far they advance.

Eating Disorders: The intense attention athletes give to their body can lead to distortions in body image and inappropriate eating habits such as bulimia or anorexia.

Focus Training: Clarity of attention to the athletic task is the key ingredient to athletic success. The ability to focus can enhance performance and it can be learned. Focus training enables the athlete to release tension and fully commit to the task, no matter what level of pressure or how long the game.

Travel Problems, Loneliness, Depression & Boredom::The professional and Olympic athlete spends an inordinate amount of time on the road faced with loneliness and boredom. This can lead to depression, drug use, resentment or a general sense of aimlessness.”

Anger Release: Many athletes harbor unrealistic, perfectionist attitudes toward their performance. This invariably produces disappointment, anger, fatigue, and a premature letting down on the playing field.

If you have information, ideas, comments or suggestions for “World Of Women Sports,” please contact Sarah Jane Clifford at 585/388-8686. Her e-mail is gtc@frontiernet.net.Clifford owns and operates The Gymnastics Training Center of Rochester, Inc., 2051 Fairport Nine Mile rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012 41 Point Rd., Penfield, NY 14526

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::fitness

by Colleen Flaherty If you’re like me, there are times during the day when you have to actively focus on taking a calming breath (or five). We all experience those good stressors that make us more productive, focused, organized, and continuously working toward that next step. What many people don’t realize is that continuous, chronic stress wreaks havoc on your body and the signs are often misinterpreted. Cortisol is a hormone the body produces in response to stress. Small increases have positive effects such as a burst of energy – the flight or fight response; burst of increased immunity; heightened memory functions; and a lower sensitivity to pain. Our daily lives are often filled continuously with events that result in a state of chronic stress. In response, our bodies keep producing cortisol and adrenaline. Negative effects of these prolonged levels result in: Suppressed Thyroid Function (thyroid plays a major role in keeping your body balanced. One of its biggest jobs is regulation of metabolism which is key to weight management.) Decreased Bone Density Blood Sugar Imbalances (Hyperglycemia – too much sugar in the blood) Higher Blood Pressure Lowered Immunity Increased Abdominal Fat (which is associated with other health risks suchas heart attack; stroke; diabetes…) Going back to those breaths…we have to allow our body’s relaxation response to be activated so normal functioning can return following a stressful event (or entire day). It’s something different for everyone. Some find solace through yoga or working out where they focus entirely inwards on what their body is “saying”. Others enjoy more social activities such as taking a walk with friends/family or playing with their kids. I’m going to suggest however, that every woman take time to find her own inner peace. It’s a practice used for over 1000 years in many different cultures for one main reason: focus. Sit somewhere comfortable, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Focus on how your chest rises and stomach expands as you inhale and falls as you exhale. Relax your face muscles all the way down to your toes. Find a word that calms you and repeat it out loud, at different tones. What do the vibrations feel like when you say the word? If your mind wanders, bring it back to that word. Breathe. Simplicity allows your mind and body to unwind and feel rejuvenated. Repeat the word when necessary, maybe when you’re in the midst of chaos and need to get a grip. Being active and eating healthy will keep your body strong, just remember to slow down and keep in mind the little things that make life extraordinary and you blissfully happy. Colleen Flaherty is a certified personal trainer and owns Maher Strength & Vitality. She trains clients at Fore Performance on Monroe Ave. Contact her at www.maherstrength.com. rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012

::gardening diva

By Frances Grossman

It’s February, chilly outside and I’m delighted to visit with you again. As I sit here and ponder what you and I will chat about this month, it comes to me… We can’t change the weather outside. We can’t control the fact that our gardens continue to rest and our favorite flip flops are buried deep in the back of the closet. Yet, we can embrace where we are at the moment and revel in the current season for the glorious opportunities that surround us. I won’t lie and tell you that growing up in Wisconsin has given me the gift of loving the winter months. I absolutely thrive on the idea of my cheeks becoming a bit rosy from an afternoon of snowshoeing and my muscles feeling tired from the exertion. Yet, I can also empathize if you are a woman that can’t wait to kick the cold temps to the curb. There are certainly days during this time of year when I yearn to hop in my car, roll the windows down and blast Kid Rock’s All Summer Long! How’s that for a peek at my wilder side! Our reality is that we’re sitting smack dab in the middle of winter with the weather and surroundings being what they are. I am choosing to happily ‘wrap myself ’ in a variety of things to get myself through the next little bit until my garden wakes up and I can get back into the spring time sun. I’d like to share the picture I have in my mind with you for a moment; see if you can relate…

Love:

I’m going to celebrate what makes me Wrap myself in happy in the life that Larry and I have lovingly created together. But I’m also going to celebrate me (keep on reading and you’ll see how!)

Freshness:

Wrap myself in As you may recall, I love to cook. I choose to grow and enjoy fresh salad field, greens and herbs indoors to enjoy when my kitchen garden is at rest. I don’t feel as though I need to deprive myself or wait until the weather cooperates to eat healthy and well.

Color:

Wrap myself in I have a dire need to infuse little punches of happy, bright color in our home. I’m looking to replenish the colorful ‘eye candy’ that I can see outside my window when the gardens are in bloom. I’ve added a few small earthy, green colored pots with brightly blooming flowers near the family room window and placed a couple of small bright accessories near my desk to jazz things up. These small additions give me a renewed energy.

February 2012 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

I also have a big block in February highlighted on my calendar and for very good reason! I count on the annual George Eastman House, Dutch Connection exhibit to give me the color boost I am so craving. This event is special for the history and excitement in our community of course, but it holds a special feeling of pride for our entire Grossmans Garden & Home team. For several years we have partnered with the GEH to make the Dutch Connection a success. We have the pleasure of growing the 1000’s of featured bulbs that adorn George Eastman’s Conservatory, right here in our greenhouses through the winter months. The Dutch Connection runs February 10th-15th and 17th – 25th. I encourage you to head over to George Eastman House to surround yourself in the stunning color that derives from the attention and TLC offered in our greenhouse.

‘You Go Girl’

Praise: Back in Wrap myself in a little December, I mentioned to you that I was going to learn how to knit. Guess what? I’m doing it! I started taking classes last month and have been knitting my way through. I humbly share with you how excited I am and how proud I am of myself for actually doing it. It’s been years in the making, but I finally did it! I know you can appreciate how easy it is to push off your own personal ideas or aspirations in the name of becoming to busy to take action. As we soldier though February together, I hope you can find a couple of wonderful things to ‘wrap yourself in.’ Focus on activities that celebrate you and bring peace, happiness and rejuvenation until the sunshine decides to stay with us for longer days. Oh heck, let me throw this out there… If you’re a new knitter too, I’d love to share stories! Happy February and don’t be shy when it comes to stopping in the nursery. We’re open Thursday - Sunday through the month and are ready to ‘wrap you in WONDERFUL!’ Frances Grossman is president of Grossman’s Garden and Home. www.grossmans.com

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The lunch time event was held on Thursday, January 26th at Woodcliff Hotel & Spa. Attendees enjoyed a scrumptious, health conscious lunch highlighted by keynote speaker Ali Vincent, the first female contestant to win The Biggest Loser. Vincent spoke about her incredible journey as she persevered to lose a total of 112 pounds. Everyone received a 2 week Jump Start program as well as a 2 week trial membership to Penfield Fitness Club.

MAIN

An Evening with Cesar Millan On Sunday, January 15, a sold-out crowd at the Auditorium Theatre was treated to an entertaining and informative presentation by best selling author and TV show host Cesar Millan, aka the Dog Whisperer. Millan spoke about his training philosophy in the fresh and energetic style that has made him a favorite among dog lovers everywhere. His presentation featured video of his training techniques and a live demonstration with a golden retriever that stole the show.

rochesterWomanMag.com :: february 2012

::RWM pets

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::say what?

Say WHAT?! Hmmmm. What were they thinking?

Events

We come across a lot of things in the course of our day that just make us stop and say ‘Huh?’ That’s what this section is for. It may be a silly road sign, maybe your pets or your kids did something funny, or yes, maybe you see someone who should have checked the mirror before leaving the house.

february

26th Annual Chocolate Ball

ORGANIZATION: Epilepsy Foundation TIME: 5:30pm-Midnight WHERE: Riverside Convention Center WEBSITE: www.epilepsy-uny.org

Susan B. Anthony Birthday Luncheon

ORGANIZATION: Susan B. Anthony House TIME: 12pm-1:30pm WHERE: Riverside Convention Center WEBSITE: www.susanbanthonyhouse.org

calendar 18

Ice Wine Festival

ORGANIZATION: Casa Larga Vineyards TIME: 12pm-6pm WHERE: Casa Larga Vineyards WEBSITE: www.casalarga.com

The Power of Great Moment: A leadership Event Featuring Elaine Spaull ORGANIZATION: RIT TIME: 8:30am WHERE: RIT WEBSITE: www.RIT.edu

ORGANIZATION: George Eastman House TIME: 7:30pm WHERE: George Eastman House WEBSITE: www.eastmanhouse.org

ORGANIZATION: Memorial Art Gallery TIME: 8pm-11pm WHERE: Memorial Art Gallery WEBSITE: mag.rochester.edu/party/

George Eastman Award Gala for Richard Gere

10th Annual Black Heritage Gala

ORGANIZATION: Black Heritage Rochester TIME: 8pm-11pm WHERE: Hyatt Regency WEBSITE: www.blackheritagerochester.org

shen yun

ORGANIZATION: Presented by Upstate New York Falun Dafa Association TIME: 6pm WHERE: Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre WEBSITE: www.shenyun2012.com

Crafting Modernism Opening Party

Do you have an event coming up? Submit your information to events@ rochesterwomanmag.com