May 2017
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The Family Edition
May 2017
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May C O N T E N T S
Letter from the Editor.............................................................. 6
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Past SWM Events...................................................................... 7 Fashion Forward: Dressing Your Kids.................................... 8 Syracuse Eats: Toss ‘n’ Fire Wood-Fired Pizza................... 10
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WISE Woman: Alisa Meheljic-Sofinski................................ 15 CNY Latina: Jessica Lynn Huertes-Pringle......................... 17 Special Feature: Home Decorating Tips............................ 20 Healthy Woman: Hip & Pelvis Issues in Pregnancy........... 22
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In Her Own Words: Maliha Mohiuddin......................................24 Cover Story: Mary Michaels................................................. 27
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Queen of Arts: Selma Selman.......................................... 34 Inspire: Laura Sateriale..............................................................38 Inspire: Janie Goddard......................................................... 42 Inspire: Amanda Benoit & Amanda Phister....................... 46
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Upcoming Events.................................................................. 48 Movers and Shakers.............................................................. 50
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LETTER from the Editor S
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’ve written about my theory of word significance before: certain words have the meaning and power you give them. For me, “family” and “home” are two of those words. Family: I know what and who that is. It’s a group of people — both those I grew up with and some I met along the way — who have shaped me, and continue to shape me. Home: this has been a more elusive word. When you’re a child, home is easy to define. It’s a physical space, and the feeling that accompanies it. But when childhood ends, and you leave that space — or you leave before childhood ends — what happens to that concept of home? There’s a scene from the movie “Garden State” that’s resonated with me since the first time I saw it opening week in 2004 (and the second time, later that same week). The main character has returned to his hometown, and he couldn’t feel more out of place. In conversation with the love interest, he mentions that moment when your childhood house doesn’t feel like “home” anymore. Wherever you keep your bed and your clothes and your books is just a place you put your stuff. That happened for me when I was 16. For the next decade or so, the apartments or dorm rooms or houses where I kept my things were lovely spaces, but they didn’t feel like home. If I had to dissect my feelings, I’d say maybe I put that childhood home on a pedestal. I’m sure I’m not the first person to fall prey to subconsciously keeping childhood memories pristine. At any rate, it bothered me for a while. I wanted that “home” back. But, eventually, the longing for the feeling faded. The “Garden State” protagonist suggested it might be a rite of passage. Maybe you don’t get the feeling again until you create it for yourself, he wondered. I think he’s right. You define “home” as an adult when you expand your view of the world and expand your idea of what family means to you. I know what family — the most important part of my life — means to me. Over the years, I’ve begun to define home again. At times, the discovery came in disjointed bits and pieces that evolved as I grew up. Sometimes it was a place. Sometimes it was a person. It’s been an interesting journey that I’m fortunate to have had. I’m lucky. In the last half a year, I’ve found “home” in my best friend. Of course, I’ll never get back the childhood feeling of home, but that’s OK. I like the “home” I’m creating. That’s just my take on the topic for this Family Issue. This month, we talked to a lot of people about what family means to them, and how that’s shaped their lives. Please make yourself at home in these pages, and learn their stories.
Lorna
On Our Cover: Mary Michaels and her family were photographed by Alice G. Patterson of Alice G. Patterson Photography in their home. Special thanks to Jillain Pastella Salomone, owner of J. Luxe Salon, for Mary’s makeup styling.
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Todd C. Battaglia Riley Bunch Marisol Hernandez Sarah Hall Carrie Luteran Samantha Mendoza Maliha Mohiuddin Lorna Oppedisano Ann Marie Stonecypher Bridget Ann Whitfield Lindsay Wickham
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The Family Edition
PAST SWM Events
On Sunday, March 26, Hope for Heather held its annual Breakfast at Tiffany’s Fashion Show & Brunch at the Holiday Inn in Liverpool. Olympic champion gymnast Shannon Miller gave the keynote address. Photography by Rick Policastro. BizEventz annual Nonprofit Awards took place on Tuesday, March 28 at the Holiday Inn in Liverpool. The event was presented by M&T Bank,
with support from Business Journal News Network, Wegmans and Disciplined Capital Management. Photography courtesy BizEventz. On Wednesday, March 29, the WISE Women’s Business Center hosted a networking event at Krebs restaurant for female entrepreneurs in Skaneateles. Photography by Alice G. Patterson.
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FASHION FORWARD Dressing Your Kids
When to Let Go of the Shoe Laces Photography by Simply Heidi Photography
By Ann Marie Stonecypher
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s a mom, there is nothing more joyous than picking out clothes for your little one. It’s wired into our mommy DNA. We adorn barely-there hair. We fold socks over chubby little calves. Then comes the dreaded day. The clothes are laid out on the bed, like usual. But out of the blue, your child says the words no mother is prepared for: “I don’t want to wear that. I want to pick my own clothes.” You blink and smile and say something like, “Honey, you love this outfit and Mommy picked it out just for you.” Then the child utters something even worse: “I. Don’t. Like. It.” The good thing is your child is one more step down the exciting road toward independence and self-sufficiency. Our fashion sense is one of the things that sets us apart from everyone else. The colors we wear and the styles we enjoy are often experimented with at an early age. Goodness knows they’re retooled as the years go by, but these early experiments are key to helping kids gain self confidence. Michelle Brancaccio of Indie Kids shared some of her thoughts. “Children pride themselves on picking out their own clothes. It helps develop their own personality. The physical process also helps with motor skills,” she explained. “I encourage parents to bring their kids shopping. Make a girls’ day of it with your daughter. Let them pick out their outfits and help by creating the combination.” I also suggest parents try to let go of perfection. Maybe your child doesn’t want to tuck in their shirt or match their hair accessories to their shirt/shorts/socks. I promise the world will continue to revolve around the sun, just as it did yesterday. Michelle added, “Make it clear that there are times when you will decide what is worn. Examples are things like weather conditions and special occasions.” There’ll be some give and take. Like with everything else, you are still Mom. They can’t have Oreos for breakfast, and they can’t wear shorts when it’s 20 degrees outside.
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When my daughter was younger, everyone at her school wore clothes from one mass retailer, who in my mind was the retail equivalent of the Antichrist. The store was overly perfumed, under lit, overpriced and undersized. When washed, the clothing underperformed. Inexplicably, the kids lined up like sheep to buy this stuff. They looked like overly-sexualized California “Stepford Tweens.” And heaven forbid you didn’t blend in with the herd. This sparked quite a debate in my house. Our compromise was if money was going to be spent on this clothing, it wasn’t going to be mine. I watched as the shopping went from “I want this, this, this and this” to very judiciously chosen pieces. After a short time, she was just over it. As time went on, I watched the evolution of my daughter’s style. She grew into a very fashionable young lady, earning the title of Best Dressed in high school and a bachelor’s degree in apparel design in college. Is this because I let her pick her own clothes? Who can say. But like many people, that’s just one imaginative area of her life. The Bottom Line: Children express their creativity in many ways, and clothing is just one. As moms, it’s our job to offer guidance and wisdom, and just say no when necessary. As parents, we know bigger fish to fry are always lurking just around the corner. Wouldn’t it be nice if they all came with buttons and zippers? SWM Models: AMS Models Clothing and styling: Indie Kids Location: Sky Armory Ann Marie Stonecypher is an award-winning business woman and the owner of AMS Models & Talent. She is also a stylist, inspirational speaker, two-time breast cancer survivor and freelance writer. She lives in the Syracuse area with her children Taylor and Steven, and her dog Cocoa. She welcomes your style questions and comments at info@amsmodels.com.
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SYRACUSE EATS Toss ‘n’ Fire Wood-Fired Pizza
toss ‘n’ fire wood-fired pizza NICK SANFORD OWNER
Photography by Steven J. Pallone
Let’s do something that’s unique, fun and exciting.”—Nick Sanford, Toss ‘n’ Fire Wood-Fired Pizza owner
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toss ‘n’ fire wood-fired pizza
Firing Up a Culinary Dream By Bridget Ann Whitfield
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oss ‘n’ Fire Wood-Fired Pizza has a mission to stand out from the crowd. With traditional staples imported from Naples — like the Pavesi oven and doppio zero flour — specific details and ingredients result in show-stopping pies at the shop in North Syracuse. Owner Nick Sanford explained that while he has incorporated traditional equipment and styles of pizza making at his restaurant, he always strives to put his own spin on the simple Neapolitan pie and introduce his customers to new flavors. Some crowd-pleasing pies are the Cheeky Monkey, featuring local Cheeky Monkey Foods tomato oil and Toss ‘n’ Fire’s house-made meatballs; the Fig ‘n’ Pig, highlighting a combination of fig jam and prosciutto; and the town’s favorite, ‘Cuse Salt Potato Pizza — the popularity’s in the name. For as long as he can remember, Nick’s had a passion for pizza. Eventually, his passion evolved into a vision of his own one-of-a-kind shop. When he began the journey in 2015, his ideas first came to life as a food truck. Nick purchased a trailer, customized it to include a mobile wood-fired oven and hit the road. He set up shop all around the county, including stints at the Central New York Regional Market, Taste of Syracuse, Blues Fest and New York State Fair. It was the most affordable way Nick could start living the dream. But after conversations with customers who loved his concepts, he started thinking about expanding. “Every public event that we’d go to — almost every single one — the question we’d get from multiple people was, ‘Where’s your shop? Where can we get your pizza? Where can we go and have you on a Tuesday?’” Nick said.
With growing interest from the community, and a trailer totally booked for the summer of 2016, Toss ‘n’ Fire bought another food truck to better serve the high demand. But that wasn’t the end of Toss ‘n’ Fire’s transformative year. When an old pizza shop closed on Main Street in North Syracuse, Nick decided to take the leap, and give Toss ‘n’ Fire a permanent home. He opened in October, and couldn’t be happier. In the months since Toss ‘n’ Fire opened its doors, the community has been receptive to the shop’s innovative style, he said. “The customers in North Syracuse are great. Everyone has been really welcoming,” Nick said. “Our base customers that have been following us since we started — we see a lot of them on a regular basis, which is awesome.” Now that Toss ‘n’ Fire has a home and two homes-away-from-home, Nick is able to welcome customers to the shop during the week, and still serve the wider community at events and catering locations when given the opportunity. Thus far, he’s only booked his trucks at local events, but Nick said he’s open to traveling to other cities, if that’s what the future holds. “Really doing stuff that every single person isn’t doing — that is my biggest thing,” Nick said. “Let’s do something that’s unique, fun and exciting.” SWM Toss ‘n’ Fire Wood-Fired Pizza is located at 315 N. Main St. in North Syracuse. Visit the shop 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and noon to 8 p.m. Sundays. For menu, events and more, visit tossnfirepizza.com.
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What Women Really Want When Shopping for Apparel & Shoes
NEW-TO-YOU FASHIONS
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WISE WOMAN Alisa Meheljic-Sofinski
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CNY LATINA Jessica Lynn Huertas-Pringle
At Home in the Community By Marisol Hernandez
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essica Lynn Huertas-Pringle, “I feel most proud of my family,” the unit director at the Hamilton Jessica said. “The way my parents raised Street Boys and Girls Club, us is to love our community, to have considers herself blessed to have her respect for others, to give back.” unique cultural background. Jessica started getting involved and “I am half Puerto Rican and half building an impressive resume at an Polish,” Jessica shared proudly. early age. During her time at Fowler Jessica was born and raised in High School, she was part of the Boys Syracuse, and her parents met on and Girls Club. In 2005, she was the Westside of the city; but Jessica’s named “Youth of the Year.” She also story really starts with her grandreceived the Senator Resolution Award. mother’s journey. She’s the founder of Syracuse Teens After being held in a concentration on the Move for Prevention, served on camp, Jessica’s grandmother came to the Syracuse Commission for Women, America and found a job in Syracuse. the Home HeadQuarters youth Speaking mostly Polish, she struggled residents committee and the Hispanic as she raised her three children. Youth Leadership. “My grandmother still lives in the In 2006, she began studying at same house where my mother was born,” Mohawk Valley Community College, Jessica said. “She shares with me a lot but grew homesick and transferred to about her country. The stories she has Onondaga Community College, where from her country are shocking, but I she’s currently working toward a degree love to spend time with her, hearing in human services. the stories and learning how to make Now, Jessica is the unit director at Polish Golumpki, stuffed cabbage rolls.” the Hamilton Street Boys and Girls Club. It is kind of funny because Jessica learned to respect and appreciate She is a successful, productive and caring different traditional foods from her Latino citizen, exemplifying what the club stands for. America is like a melting culture by going with her parents to festivals At the club, she’s started a Spanish class that pot, and so is my family.”— teaches the students about other countries and participating in parades and cultural events. To this day, they continue to attend Jessica Lynn Hertas-Pringle, and cultures. as a family, even traveling to festivals in “I believe that if you care for people and Hamilton Street Boys and Rochester and Buffalo. build a relationship, they will then be Jessica is the middle child of five. She and there for you and do anything for you,” Girls Club unit director her siblings are following the example of her she said. mother, a retired Syracuse City School When Jessica is not at the club, she’s helping District employee. Her oldest sister, Mayra, is a social worker at her husband with his passion. Corey created a traveling basketball Delaware School, serving the community that helped raise them. team called Lockitsquad315. The squad means family, not only Her sister, Natasha, is raising three young boys. Her youngest on the court, but in the community, Jessica explained. sister, Tanisha, works for the probation department. Jessica’s brother Last year, they played at a tournament in Virginia and is following in their father’s footsteps, working for the city Philadelphia, communities the children on the team would never of Syracuse. have seen if not for this opportunity. This year, the squad plans Jessica’s husband, Corey Pringle, brings another cultural dynamic to travel to Connecticut and Delaware. into the mix. He’s African American. “It is a great thing and very rewarding to take these young men “It is kind of funny because America is like a melting pot, and so outside the community and the violence,” Jessica said. “The kids is my family,” Jessica said. are really grateful and always thanking us.” SWM Jessica and Corey are soon celebrating the first birthday of their This article was provided by the CNY Latino newspaper, the only Hispanicdaughter — their “pride and joy” — Coreyanis Leona Barbara oriented publication in Central New York. The Spanish version of this article Pringle. The name Coreyanis carries special meaning to the young can be read in the May edition of CNY Latino, in both the traditional paper parents, as it honors loved ones who have passed away. version and the digital format at cnylatinonewspaper.com.
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SPECIAL FEATURE Home Decorating Tips
Keeping it Funky and Family-Friendly By Carrie Luteran
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eeping up a beautiful home is a challenge when you have an active family. Young children are so hard on the walls, floors and furniture that you might be tempted to wait until they go to college to decorate! But today’s technology has created durable housewares that can stand up to the heaviest use, all while looking great. Here are some decorating ideas that can withstand even the most active kids and pets: 1. Buy durable rugs. Rugs made from synthetic fibers are the easiest to care for. They won’t absorb food and pet stains, so you can blot away any accidents. If you prefer natural materials in your home, try wool rugs. Steer clear of sisal or jute; they are easily stained and almost impossible to clean. If you have pets, pay attention to the pile of your rugs, as well; cut pile is much less likely to get caught and pulled by your animal’s nails than looped styles. 2. Stick with patterns. Whether it’s upholstery, curtains or rugs, patterns can hide a multitude of spills and smudges. There’s no need to be afraid of mixing multiple patterns in one room. Keep them all in the same color palette but vary the scale for a cohesive look. 3. Bring the outdoors in. Outdoor furnishings have come a long way. Check out the garden section in your favorite store for furniture and accessories that can be incorporated into your interiors. If it’s sturdy enough to stand up to the elements, it can stand up to your family! Many furniture retailers are now making sofas, sectionals and chairs in outdoor fabrics like Sunbrella. Spills bead right up on them, so you won’t have to watch the kids every second. 4. Make storage easy. Let’s be honest — kids’ toys are a constant source of clutter. When you’re setting up storage systems, make it as easy as possible to put things away. Try large bins or baskets for the big items, and a set of small drawers for those little Legos, puzzle pieces and craft supplies that are always underfoot. The simpler it is for your kids to clean up, the more likely they will actually do it. 5. Create a rotating artwork display. You want to display your kids’ masterpieces, but hanging them all over the fridge can look messy. Instead, set aside space on one wall to serve as a rotating art
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gallery. Hang some large cork boards there, or try several rows of curtain rods with clip rings. Let your children pick their best work to display. When they bring home new creations, it’s easy to swap them out. 6. Consider secondhand. Used furniture often comes with a few scratches and dents. While that may sound like a negative, it can bring peace of mind if you have kids or pets who are tough on their stuff. Since secondhand pieces are already a little brokenin, you won’t sweat it when the little ones add more “personality.” Always clean used items thoroughly and test painted finishes to be sure they don’t contain lead. 7. Use quality paint. Walls take a beating when you have an active family. You might be tempted to go with the cheap stuff and plan on repainting often, but using high quality paint will save you time and money in the long run. Talk to a paint expert at your local store about the most washable options. 8. Be realistic. The most important consideration when decorating your home is making it practical for your family. Light-colored upholstery and glass end tables may look beautiful on Pinterest, but they will be a constant source of worry in your home if you have little ones. Parenthood is enough of a challenge, so make your life a little easier by selecting furnishings that are no-fuss and – most importantly – safe for your kids. SWM Carrie Luteran makes spaces totally functional and fab. She provides interior design and professional organizing services to the Syracuse area through her company, Pretty Neat. Learn more at prettyneatsolutions.com or call (315) 400-1966.
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May 2017
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healthy woman Hip & Pelvic Issues During Pregnancy
The What and Why of Pregnancy Pain By Todd C. Battaglia, MD, MS
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regnancy is a time of change. Among the many physical differences your body may undergo during pregnancy, one of the most common — and least enjoyable — is pelvic or hip pain. It’s estimated that up to one in five pregnant women will experience such symptoms, which can be intermittent or constant, and involve anything from a dull ache to a shooting or sharp pain. The location of pain can also vary, including pain over the pubic bone at the lower abdomen, groin pain, pain across one or both sides of your lower back, or pain down the legs.
Why this happens
Many nonspecific cases are simply a result of added strain on your body, due to additional weight and the growing baby. During pregnancy, the body releases hormones that allow connective tissue to relax and stretch for the ultimate purpose of allowing the baby to move through the pelvis during labor. As a consequence, the joints and ligaments in the pelvis and hips begin to loosen, and may become sore due to postural changes and the heavier abdomen and uterus. This pain may often be more severe after prolonged standing or walking, as gravity increases the pressure. Sometimes your baby may be pressing directly on a sciatic nerve. These nerves run from the low back under the uterus and down each leg. The enlarged, heavier uterus can put pressure on one or both of these nerves, causing sciatica – a pain, numbness or tingling sensation in the buttocks, hips or thighs. Often, this pain is worse when lying on your back, and tends to present in the later stages of pregnancy. Another possible cause of hip discomfort during pregnancy is round ligament pain. This typically occurs in the second trimester. The round ligament connects the uterus to the groin, where it supports the uterus and stretches during pregnancy. Round ligament pain is characterized by brief, sharp pains in the abdomen, hip and groin area, particularly with sudden movement that stretches these ligaments quickly, such as going from a sitting to standing position, laughing or coughing. Transient osteoporosis of the hip is an uncommon condition that can occur in women in the later stages of pregnancy, and results in temporary loss of bone density in the joint. There is no established explanation, although a number of causes have been proposed, including hormonal changes, abnormal stress on the joint, and compression of the small blood vessels surrounding the hip. This condition may present as pain, typically in the front of the thigh or groin, that worsens with weight bearing and may lessen with rest. Pain may increase during pregnancy and become so intense that it causes a noticeable limp.
low-impact activities are best for sore joints and muscles. Try lying on your back, and elevating your hips above chest level. As you get closer to your delivery date, try to sleep on your side and keep your legs and knees bent. This may avoid pressure on the sciatic nerves. Using pillows to support your abdomen and upper leg can alleviate discomfort while sleeping; try placing a pillow between your legs as you sleep to reduce hip strain. If lying on your side worsens your hip pain, a pillow or blanket placed at the small of your back can reduce strain and pressure on the hips and pelvis. Although most pregnant women may safely take acetaminophen or anti-inflammatories, check with your doctor before taking any medication. Fortunately, most common causes of pregnancy-related hip and pelvic pain — including those listed above — are temporary and eventually resolve. It is important to contact your health care provider if the pain becomes constant or increases in severity or frequency. Abdominal pain or cramping, pain that doesn’t improve when you change positions, or pain associated with nausea, changes in bowel habits, or vaginal discharge, should be immediately reported to your physician. SWM Todd Battaglia is an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in shoulder, knee and sports surgery at Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists, PC. He is team orthopedist for Syracuse University, Syracuse Silver Knights, Onondaga Community College and a number of local high schools. For more information, visit toddbattagliaMD. com.
What you can do
Exercises that strengthen the back muscles and abdominal muscles will often reduce these pains. Swimming and other 22
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RAYMOND LUKE JR. PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS. ALL OTHER PHOTOS BY ANDREW ECCLES.
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in her own words Maliha Mohiuddin
The Shame of Being Fair
“S
he did it again! How does she get up there?” My uncle’s wife looked perplexed yet slightly amused as I walked by, towel thrown over my shoulder, and made my way to the grand hall sofa. My father stood stern-faced as he took in the color of my skin. What two days ago had been a warm cream was now a dark mocha from the intense Indian sun. In an effort to keep me from the rooftop, my uncle had placed layers of furniture along the last staircase landing; but I was adept at climbing. Grasping the high railing, I maneuvered my way around the matrix of chairs and tables. It was always a tense and irrational conversation that followed these excursions to the rooftop. “Who is going to see your skin? Why are you stubborn and set to bring shame to us?” I was asked. “What if someone saw you?” “I do it for myself. I think I look prettier when I’m tan,” I replied, avoiding his intense and disapproving gaze. “Everyone in America is tan. Besides, I blend in here now.” It always boggled my mind that in a land where the majority of people were born with varying shades of caramel skin, they could hate it so much. Throughout my childhood, I would overhear various family members discuss the merits of certain girls. “She’s pretty, but she’s dark,” was a phrase often uttered. So many of my own cousins owned and diligently applied “Fair & Lovely,” a bleaching cream widely used throughout India. Their marriageability was ranked by skin tone, often outweighing education, career and personality. I was born to parents whose pigmentation favored that of toasted cashews, and so I became a rarity in a sea of caramel, a rare jewel in the south of India.
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Photography by Dennis Fernando
By Maliha Mohiuddin
It was a curse. Starting when I was about 12 years old, elderly women hounded my grandaunts and parents to arrange a marriage between me and their son, nephew, whoever. It was solely based on the color of my skin. Dressed in rich and vibrant blouses with ornate skirts, I often looked older than my age at weddings, which only added to these outrageous overtures. Back then, it hadn’t bothered my parents as much as it bothered me, but they grew concerned as I got older. I had studied my mother’s photographs from her youth, and by 18, I’d perfected the cat eye. Pairing that against my cream-colored skin and distinct beauty mark made me stand out from the crowd of girls whose mothers had caked them in talc powder and magenta lipstick. It wasn’t so much at weddings that my father began to resent my looks, but during the regular day trips in the city. Sitting in the back of our family car, my Discman on full blast, I would gaze out the window at the passing traffic that weaved around those crowded Indian roads full of men on motorcycles. My dark hair whipped around my face as we drove to local sari boutiques. And then, inevitably, one of those motorcyclists would notice me. Just as suddenly, they would take every turn our driver did until finally parking near our car in the market. I tried not to notice them, averting my gaze as I stepped out of the car, often dressed in long shirt salwars that didn’t follow the trends of India, but rather my own style of minimalism and clean cuts. Hours would pass as we purchased items in the top stories of these markets. We often left past midnight after collaborations with the tailors, and yet I could still see at least one or two of those men perched on their motorcycles, lying in wait.
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Often, as I got into the car, a little street child would run by and drop a note on my lap, the number of my stalker neatly written with some insulting comment about my beauty. It was during such occurrences that my father would notice the men again following us, and angrily turn to me in the backseat, chastising me as he demanded I roll up my window and stay out of sight. This happened so much that on the rare occasion I was left at home, my father would have my uncle lock our front gate and post a guard. I often resented my time in India. It tainted my relationship with my family, each one of them thinking of ways in which I was a risk and how to keep me in or cover me from head to toe when I did step out. “How come no one else gets harassed the way she does?” they often wondered, only to suspect I must be initiating the stalking. Instead of thinking something should be done to avert the male gaze, the blame was placed on me — on the cream tone of my skin, on my naivety of a culture I did not understand. On the rare occasion that I would shout to the men to leave me alone, I was chastised and left feeling ashamed for something far beyond my control. I never understood why those men weren’t on the receiving end of my father’s anger. As much as I resented feeling like a caged bird, I took comfort in the security at home. It wasn’t until I began my trips to the rooftop to tan that I found a way to stop or at least minimize the stalking. I became less of that rare jewel and more of just another Indian woman driving around with her family. It took many years after these trips to have an open dialogue with my parents. My father in particular was often uncomfortable when confronted with such topics. But it was necessary for me.
His intention was always to protect me. He never understood that in shaming me, he was only reinforcing the mentality that anything I had experienced was my fault, and not that of the men violating my sense of safety. We’ve all changed since those early years, but my family no longer allows for blame to be placed on anyone other than the perpetrator. I am no longer shamed for taking pride in how I present myself to the world. There are so many shows we watch from the comfort of our couches here in America about the way women are objectified and harassed, often ending in far more dire circumstances than my own. Until recent years, society had rarely held men accountable. Now these shows serve as a platform to expose those men for who and what they are: perverted individuals in a society ready for change. Gone are the days of shaming women for the inappropriate male gaze. We are now in a time that forces men to change — or else deal with harsh consequences of the law. I’d like to think conversations like the ones I had with my family helped spur this movement. The more people talk about the issues, the louder the volume of these voices will be. Soon, the old, outdated and foolhardy way of thinking will be nothing more than a murmur of the past. SWM Maliha Mohiuddin is the founder and creative director of The Hare and Style blog. For more of her work, visit thehareandstyle.com. This piece originally appeared on the Safety First For Girls website. For more, visit safetyfirstforgirls.org. Photo courtesy The Hare & Style, LLC.
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COVER STORY Mary Michaels
Mary Michaels
Photography by Alice G. Patterson
CYSTIC FIBROSIS AWARENESS ADVOCATE
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COVER STORY Mary Michaels
Team Tess’ Tomorrows By Lorna Oppedisano
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n 1955, a group of parents got together. They had one thing in common: their young children had been diagnosed with a chronic, incurable disease — cystic fibrosis. The children weren’t expected to live past elementary school. The parents formed the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, with a simple goal in mind. They wanted to “add tomorrows,” a motto the organization still follows today. As decades passed, the foundation’s grassroots efforts helped people diagnosed with cystic fibrosis live well into their 30s, 40s and beyond. Medications and treatments were invented and improved upon over the years. The national organization still relies on parents, friends and community members to help raise money for research, and receives no federal funding. So far, there’s no cure for cystic fibrosis. “We’ve got the end in sight,” said Amy Spranger, the executive director of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Central New York chapter. “And we can’t take our foot off the accelerator right now.” The chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation covers a 15-county region, from St. Lawrence County to Broome County. That’s approximately the same footprint the Robert C. Schwartz Cystic Fibrosis Center at SUNY Upstate Medical University serves, Amy pointed out. The chapter focuses on fundraising with a number of walks, an annual hike, a dinner dance and more throughout the year. The money raised goes to the national office. In turn, more than that amount comes back to the area, Amy explained. Year after year, Team Tess leads the way in fundraising efforts. Last year, the group raised $60,963. The team was formed in part by Mary Michaels, shortly after her daughter Tess was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis in 2001. She’s been a leading advocate since, and was named this year’s Champion for a Cure at the local chapter’s 65 Roses Dinner Dance in February. “[Mary is] so humble and so down-to-earth. She had said to me,‘Well, I’m just doing what any other mother would do,’” Amy said. “She just doesn’t have a perspective on her network and what she raises, and really how much she does for the chapter and the foundation.”
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the more money they get, it goes to science and they’ll find a cure. That’s our belief.” —Mary Michaels, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation advocate
Photography by Alice G. Patterson
The diagnosis When Mary and Mike Michaels met in high school, they hadn’t heard of cystic fibrosis. When they started dating years later, they hadn’t heard of cystic fibrosis. When they got married and had their first child, they still hadn’t heard of cystic fibrosis. They didn’t know about the disease throughout the first year of their daughter Tess’ life, 12 months filled with medical appointments, colds, upset stomachs and 15 to 20 diaper changes a day. “Had we even known about what cystic fibrosis was, maybe we would have thought about it,” Mary said. “But we didn’t think twice.” Tests for cystic fibrosis weren’t typically performed at birth. It’s now mandatory, Mary explained, adding that it can save parents the months she and Mike spent questioning what might be wrong with their child, and can add more time for treatment.
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COVER STORY Mary Michaels
Team Tess’ Tomorrows from page 29 When Tess was about 14 months old, the doctors decided to test her for the disease — first with two sweat tests, which signaled positive, and then with blood work. The first-time parents finally knew the cause of their daughter’s chronic colds. They were initially devastated, Mary said, traces of the emotions that accompanied the diagnosis showing on her face. “Is she going to have a normal life?” Mary recalled wondering. The parents were advised not to venture much further online than the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s website. They followed the advice for the most part, turning their efforts to developing a routine of care for Tess and fundraising for the foundation. Around the same time Tess was diagnosed, Mary’s sister found a flyer at her hairdresser’s for the foundation’s Great Strides walk. “We should do that this year,” she suggested. With the help of friends and family, Team Tess generated about $3,000 that year. “Our thought was basically: the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the more money they get, it goes to science and they’ll find a cure,” Mary said. “That’s our belief.”
What is cystic fibrosis?
In people with CF, a defective gene causes a thick, buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas and other organs. In the lungs, the mucus clogs the airways and traps bacteria leading to infections, extensive lung damage and eventually, respiratory failure. In the pancreas, the mucus prevents the release of digestive enzymes that allow the body to break down food and absorb vital nutrients. Source: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
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Great Strides May 5
at Green Lakes State Park
CF Golf Classic July 13 at The Links at Erie Village
Xtreme Hike August 25 through 27 in Lake Placid
Adding to the team The first year of treatment was hard. Tess was too small to wear the vest she now uses to help dislodge the mucus from her lungs, and too young to really communicate very well with her parents. Mary and Mike were limited to chest physical therapy. “They give you a sheet of directions on all the different positions for postural drainage,” Mary said. “You have to stick [your child] upside down and slap their backs with these cups that they give you. You do that for two minutes, and then you flip them in another direction. It ended up being 45 minutes of torture.” Mary and Mike would take turns singing or reading to Tess while the other parent did the treatments. It didn’t make witnessing their child going through the experience any easier. Eventually, after Tess turned 2, they were able to stop the chest physical therapy and turn to the vest, which she still uses daily. When Tess turned 4, the family grew. Mary and Mike had another baby girl, Taylor. Although she had a 25 percent chance of being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis — since the parents both carry the gene — she wasn’t born with the disease. Raising a 4-year-old and a newborn would have been a handful for anyone, regardless of illness. With the routine of daily treatments, it was hard to juggle everything, Mary said. She added that in some families, the majority of the responsibility might fall on the mother. For the Michaels, that wasn’t the case. “Having Mike,” she began with a smile, “he’s so helpful. … We’re definitely a team, because we couldn’t do any of it without each other’s help.” Like any pair of siblings, Tess and Taylor have been jealous of each other at times, Mary said. When Tess had doctors appointments, Taylor would have to stay at a friend’s house. Plans had to be made around Tess’ treatments. But Tess probably envies the fact that her sister doesn’t have to visit the doctor as frequently or undergo the treatments, Mary said. “Hopefully they get it, that someday they’ll be best friends,” she added with a smile.
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The daily routine In the last decade and a half, delivery of treatments for cystic fibrosis has advanced, Mary said. Now, patients can get the medicine they need more quickly. But Mary and Mike still have to make sure Tess spends time with her medicines and machines each day. Every morning, Mike wakes Tess up around 5:15 a.m. to start the process. First, she takes a puff of medicine to open her airwaves. Then, she puts on the vest, and uses a breathing nebulizer. It makes her cough up the mucus. Next, she takes a couple more treatments, including antibiotics. Then — about 45 minutes to an hour after the whole routine started — she eats breakfast, takes enzymes and other antibiotics, and starts her day. Throughout the day, she’s on a 23-hour continuous IV. Tess also has to check her blood sugar regularly, because a high percentage of cystic fibrosis patients develop diabetes as well, Mary explained. At this point, they’re not sure if Tess has the additional disease. They try to control her blood sugar throughout the night with a feed tube. Since cystic fibrosis patients burn more calories just breathing than those who don’t have the disease, they need to take in more food, Mary said. “Everything that [Tess is] on, you think about how her body handles all that stuff, but she does,” she said. “It doesn’t slow her down.”
Fighting for a cure
TEAM TESS HAS RAISED:
2016
$60,963
2015
$63,830
2014
$49,293
Photography by Alice G. Patterson
Since Mary and Mike learned what cystic fibrosis was back in 2001, their family has been — to use Mary’s word — a team. The Michaels live busy, crazy lives, Mary said with a laugh, and nothing gets in the way of that. They go on family vacations. They have neighborhood nights with friends. Mary and Mike go away for the weekend sometimes. Last summer, the family experienced a “first.” Tess had only spent a weekend at most away from her parents. In August, she spent a week and a half away — overseas on a school trip to Europe. While it was definitely harder on Mary than it was on her daughter — “She was like, ‘I’m away! Woohoo!’” Mary joked — it did help the family work toward goals to make Tess more independent, Mary pointed out. “We don’t let this slow us down, or slow her down,” she said. The Michaels family runs circles around the disease. And in the relationship they’ve built with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, they’re continually raising awareness and funds to find a cure. Although this year’s Champion for a Cure has helped spearhead efforts to raise thousands upon thousands of dollars for the foundation, she remains humble. In Mary’s eyes, she’s just a mother doing a mother’s job. “I always say that we’re only as fortunate as the people that come to our events. We are so lucky, because…” Mary paused and then, with a strong smile, said, “We have such a good support system.” SWM Interested in fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation? Visit cff.org.
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Queen of Arts Selma Selman
Photography by Alexis Emm
SELMA SELMAN
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Finding a Voice in Art By Samantha Mendoza
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human being,” Selma said. “But when I grew up, I realized that n a small art studio at Syracuse University, Selma Selman is I was different — not that I felt different, but that people could surrounded by powerful women. Their expressions are both make me feel different.” worn and fierce, suggesting they’ve faced challenges in their lives, It was then that she discovered her passion for art. She began and have built up courage to overcome them. These faces are made of paint and pastels, and stare back at Selma making friends by drawing pictures for her classmates. As she started receiving recognition for her talent from teachers and from the canvases she painted them on. These women shaped Selma to be the person she is today — an internationally-renowned professors, she realized art could have the power to change not only her life, but the lives of others. artist with hopes of empowering young women to make their own “I feel like as an artist, I have a mission. I really want girls and decisions, just as these women have inspired her. Though she is far from her native village in Bosnia, Selma can still boys in my village to have an education, and I want marginalized hear the voices of these women, as though they’re speaking through people to get the freedom they deserve,” Selma said. “I feel like art is not only about the individual; it’s about advocacy.” the paintings. Selma’s talent gave her opportunities to travel the world, She points to a work hung on the wall beside her, titled “Do educating others about Roma Not Be Like Me.” The image marginalization through her works. portrays two women standing side When she was just 17, she was by side wearing similar clothes, awarded a full scholarship to but different expressions. I really want girls and boys in my study art in a major city in Bosnia. “It’s the story of my mother,” village to have an education, and I At age 24, she received a Zvono Selma explained. “She grew up in award for best young artist in the Kosovo, was married at age 12, want marginalized people to get country, an opportunity that allowed gave birth at age 13 and had five the freedom they deserve. I feel her to create and present a solo kids. She would always tell me to like art is not only about the exhibit in New York City. never be like her. And when I look She has also received a grant to at this painting, I remember that individual; it’s about advocacy.” study in Budapest; has hosted an I want to educate myself and do — Selma Selman, artist and activist art performance in Croatia; plans everything I can to help her. to travel to Bihar, India, to facilitate She made me who I am.” workshops for marginalized young Selma’s mother’s story is not girls; and is currently earning a uncommon in what is now known as master’s degree in transmedia, visual and performing arts at “former Yugoslavia” where Selma grew up. Arranged marriages Syracuse University. are still routine and sometimes decided when girls are as young She’s created exhibits and received awards across the globe. as 3. Women are typically confined to dutifully fulfilling strict But still, her passion will always lie in helping the children in her gender roles, requiring them to honor in-laws and care small Bosnian village that made Selma who she is today. for spouses. “I feel the most successful when I go home to my village and the Selma always knew this was not the life for her. young girls run up to me and tell me, ‘Selma, I want to be like you “I have three sisters who are all in arranged marriages, when I grow up,’” she said. “That is my greatest success.” and sometimes they feel that they don’t have freedom,” Selma’s works tell stories of oppression and resistance; Selma said. “I was the only one who kind of escaped and of discrimination and defiance; and of women who dared to fought that, because I realized that something needs to break free from tradition. She uses her art to speak about issues be changed.” like feminism, gender and stereotypes. With each piece she creates, Selma has spent her life defying society’s expectations, both as she thinks of the women who have inspired her, and the women a woman and as a Roma, one of the most marginalized minority who are still finding their voices. groups in Eastern Europe. The Roma people often face poverty, “My advice for every woman and girl is to never please someone. social exclusion and lack of access to education. Selma recognized Please only yourself, because you are important,” Selma said. these issues within her community at a young age; but it wasn’t “Respect yourself and believe in yourself, because we can do until she was older that she realized she would have to stand up anything we want. We can change the world if we want.” SWM for herself to access opportunities. “When I was a child in school, I could never understand why I didn’t have any friends, because I considered myself a normal For more information on Selma and her works, visit selmaselman.mayfirst.org.
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INSPIRE Laura Sateriale
LAURA SATERIALE
Photography by Alexis Emm
AUTHOR
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Turning Loss into Words By Sarah Hall
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or 630 days, Lily Sateriale brought light and laughter into her electronic version for Kindle. So far, she said, the reaction has family’s lives. been positive. For 630 days, the Sateriales—mom Laura, dad Micah, “People have thanked me for writing this book because it offers twins Molly and Mia, then 8, and 5-year-old William—watched a perspective that isn’t shared openly very often,” Laura said. her grow and giggle. For Laura and her family, the book is another way to help “Lily had an incredibly vibrant personality,” Laura said. “She had share Lily’s story with the world. a great sense of humor, even though she was still so young. She always “I have always felt strongly about keeping Lily’s memory alive,” gave a sideways glance if you said something that she thought was she said. “I drive around with a huge photo magnet of her on silly, and she loved making faces to make you laugh.” the back of my car. I talk about her with anyone who will listen. But on the morning of Day 631, everything changed. I think that’s a common thread amongst bereaved parents. Lily didn’t wake up, and the Sateriales’ lives as they knew them We love to share our children with others.” were over. And she’s not the only one — one of her twin daughters has also “There was something so joyous and harmonious about her taken pen to paper about Lily. presence in our family, and sadly, she took it with her when she “Mia has been writing her own story about losing her sister, left us,” Laura said. and I think it’s beautiful that she wants to do that,” Laura said. At 20 months old, Lily died The book is also meant to help of Sudden Unexplained Death others who have lost a child — and in Childhood, a relatively rare gotten lost themselves. After Lily diagnosis applied to children older passed away, Laura was terrified by The pain and sorrow do not than 12 months whose passing life, she explained. She wanted someone is still unexplained after a to tell her the feeling was go away, but in time, you learn thorough examination. normal, and that it would get easier. new ways to live with them. Lily was entirely healthy when “That is the message I hope she died, leaving her parents doubly this book will share with others,” You can enjoy life again, and let stricken: not only had they lost their Laura said. “The pain and sorrow go of the guilt that holds you child, but they’d never know why. do not go away, but in time, “Micah and I are terrified anytime you learn new ways to live with back from happiness.” —Laura illness strikes our family,” Laura said. them. You can enjoy life again, Sateriale, author “We wake up hourly at night to and let go of the guilt that holds make sure everyone is breathing. you back from happiness.” The older kids roll their eyes because Laura and Micah have found I don’t let them shut their bedroom happiness in their other children. doors. Molly will even look up at me, half-awake, and say, They’ve even added to their brood: Ember is 4 and River is 2. ‘Relax, Mom, I’m alive!’ It’s so ‘normal’ to them, which is a They bring energy and chaos — the good kind — to the little strange for us.” Sateriale household. While the distraction is welcome, In order to cope with her grief, Laura started writing shortly sometimes it does bring fresh grief. after Lily’s funeral. “We knew the exact dates when Ember and River turned 630 “It was cathartic, to say the least,” she said. days old. We were relieved when they surpassed it, but it was After hearing from others that she should turn her musings also sad knowing that each milestone that followed was one that into a book, Laura started putting it together, using her Lily would never reach,” Laura said. “I like to think that every journal as the basis. passing day makes them stronger, and closer to an age when we “It gradually became a retrospective look at my grief experience,” can breathe easier. We worry, but the happiness that they’ve she said. “It’s raw and very honest, but it’s also hopeful.” brought back to our lives outweighs all of our fears.” SWM “Goodnight, Not Goodbye: A Mother’s Search for Hope After Sudden Child Loss” shares Laura’s struggle with her grief and how she managed to come out on the other side. She used Amazon’s “Goodnight, Not Goodbye: A Mother’s Search for Hope After Sudden Child Loss” is available on Amazon Kindle and in paperpack. self-publishing platform, which offers both a print book and an
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INSPIRE Janie Goddard
JANIE GODDARD
Photography by Mary Grace Johnson
JADAK PRESIDENT
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A Journey Home By Riley Bunch
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anie Goddard discovered her passion for business on her Moving home to be closer to family coincided with an eighth-grade school bus. opportunity at JADAK. In a nationwide search for a new When her father took away cable on her television, president, Janie was chosen for the position, thanks to her track Janie started selling candy on the bus, so she could buy her own record of positions and variety of experience. All of that moving cable TV and watch as much MTV as she wanted. Soon after, around had paid off. her candy business made so much money that she forgot about her “I have had a lot of good experience at big companies where initial goal and latched onto the rush of buying low and I have gotten a lot of good training and understanding, but a lot selling high in business. of variety,” Janie said. “Also, I like to think that I have a good Now president of JADAK, a medical equipment manufacturer balance of being results-driven, but also understanding and and supplier, Janie attributes her success to drive and a wide skill appreciating that you need the people and you need to lead and set she’s developed over the years. inspire the people to get things done.” “Things haven’t always come easy for me,” Janie said, explaining Janie credits her coworkers for helping her assimilate to the that in elementary school, she didn’t excel. But she’s always had a new team. They’re passionate and engaged people who welcomed good work ethic. her to the organization, she said. “I love a challenge,” she said. “That’s motivating for me. I like to Now that she’s in her hometown, Janie hopes to give back to the see what more I can do or learn.” area. Her vision for JADAK is “accelerated growth,” she explained. After earning an undergraduate The new president hopes to bring degree in business administration at more jobs and opportunities to Washington University in St. Louis, the region. Janie took a nontraditional path Being an African-American I love a challenge. That’s motivating into the business world. Instead of woman who’s navigated her way for me. I like to see what more I can following her friends and classmates through a male-dominated industry, into the high-earning fields of Janie’s faced obstacles. But she do or learn.” business consulting and investment decided long ago those challenges —Janie Goddard, JADAK president banking, Janie moved to Baltimore, wouldn’t be roadblocks to her Md., where she joined Teach for career and life. America and taught middle school “I am very keenly aware that math for three years. these things could be barriers,” Janie said. “But, thank goodness, “[It was] the best job I ever had. I loved it absolutely,” Janie said. I’ve had people in my career who really championed me, “It taught me a lot of the skills I use today: patience, self-discipline, supported me and helped me get to where I am.” interpersonal skills, communication — all [of] those.” To women of color in her field, she has this piece of advice: After the time with Teach for America, Janie earned a you need to have self-confidence. master’s degree in business administration and management Here in her home in Syracuse, Janie enjoys her downtime with at Harvard Business School, and began her journey around her husband, three children and family dog. After a lifetime of the country. She spent time in California, Florida and traveling for work, she’s happy for a chance to slow down and have Massachusetts, working for companies like The Clorox Company, more fun — but she sometimes has to remind herself of that fact. Eastman Kodak, Johnson & Johnson and Covidien. “I’m so eager to get things done and drive things forward, Then, although she vowed she never would, Janie returned to sometimes I forget to reflect and enjoy the journey,” Janie said. her hometown of Syracuse. “It’s advice I would give to myself back then, and advice that I “My parents live here. I grew up here. I went to high school here. still give to myself now.” SWM And I swore I would never come back — never ever, ever,” For more information on JADAK, visit JADAKtech.com. Janie said. “But when I got older and had kids, it was important for me to be closer to my parents.”
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INSPIRE Amanda Benoit & Amanda Phister
Photography by Alice G. Patterson
AMANDA BENOIT & Amanda Phister
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Four Times the Fun By Lorna Oppedisano
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hile some mothers might see it as four times the challenge, “It was positive,” Benoit recalled, smiling from ear to ear. “And I partners Amanda Benoit and Amanda Phister — the remember I was just crying, crying, crying.” “Quad Moms” — see it as four times the blessing. She woke up Phister, tears still streaming down her face. “I would say four is better than none,” Phister said. “If we didn’t “And she just starts consoling me, saying, ‘It’s OK. It’s OK,’” have these four, we’d still be trying for one. I always tell people: we Benoit said. have such a different view on it, because for us, we would rather be “I just thought it was one more negative,” Phister explained. dealing with four sets of diapers, and four this, and four that, than “And finally, in [between] the moments of my sobbing, I was none of it at all, you know? Or one more month of ‘No, you’re not finally able to get out, ‘It’s positive!’” Benoit said. pregnant.’” The next seven months were filled with visits to their local doctor, and then eventually with Dr. Alexandra Spadola, at Upstate Benoit, 31, had been trying to get pregnant since July 2014. University Hospital. The couple approached the process of IUIs and IFVs (intrauterine Benoit set herself a goal of making it to 30 weeks, and she did. insemination and in vitro fertilization, respectively) with little On week 30, she started to feel “not so good.” Her blood pressure insider knowledge. They met with fertility doctors, learned the was climbing. They checked her into the hospital, and on June basics and started trying for a child. 10, the couple welcomed their four babies — two boys and two The plan was for Benoit to have their first child, and then identical twin girls — into the world. Phister to have their second. So the couple bought eight samples The infants spent the next month or so in the NICU — “best from the same donor, four apiece. Benoit would try three IUIs, babysitters in the world, round the clock!” Benoit said. and if that didn’t work, move on to an IVF. Having that last For the first few months after they option to fall back on gave them more brought them home, Benoit and hope after the first three tries didn’t Phister had at least one family member work, Benoit explained. there to help at all times. They decided to use two eggs for the I would say four is better than “We would not be where we are IVF, but after the process, Benoit still none. If we didn’t have these four, without our families,” Benoit said. wasn’t pregnant. They were devastated. As the babies began to grow and “Really, with our story, what it comes we’d still be trying for one.” develop their own distinct personalities, down to is we just didn’t get all the —Amanda Phister, Quad Mom word of the Quad Moms spread. information,” Benoit said. Syracuse cancer awareness advocate The couple did more research on Ann Marie Otis caught wind of their own, bought higher quality and their story. She was helping to start a new project called Wisdo, quantity sperm — something they hadn’t known about when they an online wisdom-sharing platform, and thought Benoit and started — and tried again. Phister’s tale could help a lot of people. Benoit went through the process of three IUIs again — still The women didn’t love the spotlight, but knew Ann Marie nothing. Each of the now seven procedures came with a slew of was right. fertility treatments and hormones, physical stress and emotional “We have such a story about our experience, and it’s not all pain. If this last IVF didn’t work, she was done trying. good experience,” Benoit said, pointing out the fact that they spent She put in three eggs, with a warning from the doctor that there a lot of money and hadn’t planned for four babies. “I wouldn’t was a 10 to 15 percent chance all three eggs would take. change it for the world, but there are people out there who might “OK, I can ride that 85 [to] 90 percent,” she thought. “I can not want our situation and might want more knowledge going into do that.” it. And that’s what I love about Wisdo. People have this wisdom He also told them there was a small chance one of the eggs because they had these experiences.” SWM would split. Knowing multiples didn’t run in her family, she wasn’t worried about it. What she didn’t know was the fact that fertility treatments increase the chances of eggs splitting. For more of the Quad Moms’ wisdom, visit wisdo.com/profile/ On Dec. 7, 2015 — 18 months and eight procedures after the amanda-benoit. couple had started this process — Benoit began her day with a pregnancy test.
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UPCOMING SWM Events Wednesday, May 3 WBOC Monthly Meeting When: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. What: Topic is Communications & Sales. Cost: $25; member, $10. Where: Genesee Grande Hotel, 1060 E. Genesee St., Syracuse. Info: wboconnection.org. Wednesday, May 3 1 Million Cups When: Doors open, 8:30 a.m.; presentation, 9 to 10 a.m. What: Presentations by local early-stage startup companies aim to draw feedback from peers, mentors, educators and advisors. Open to the public. Cost: Free admission. Where: Syracuse CoWorks, 201 E. Jefferson St., Syracuse. Info: 1millioncups.com/syracuse. Thursday, May 4 Business After Hours and Member Showcase at the Chiefs When: 5 to 7 p.m. What: Networking and then Syracuse Chiefs game. Check online for more details. Where: NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse. Info: centerstateceo.com. Various days Thursday, May 4 through Saturday, May 20 The Bomb-itty of Errors When: Check online for matinee and evening shows. What: Hiphop retelling of Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors.” Cost: $30. Where: Red House Arts Center, 201 S. West St., Syracuse. Info: theredhouse.org. Various days Friday, May 5 through Saturday, May 20 The Complete Works of William Shakespeare When: Check online for matinee and evening shows. What: Comic retelling of Shakespeare’s 37 plays in 97 minutes. Cost: $30. Where: Red House Arts Center, 201 S. West St., Syracuse. Info: theredhouse.org. Friday, May 5 Masquerade Glamour When: 7 to 11 p.m. What: Third annual A Cause to Celebrate event in the style of “Beauty and the Beast” includes champagne bar, hors d’oeuvres, music, dancing, silent auction and fashion show. Cocktail attire, festive mask and/or theatrical hair and makeup strongly encouraged. Cost: $35; two for $60. Where: Mohegan Manor, 58 Oswego St., Baldwinsville. Info: bvillecausetocelebrate.com. 48
Sunday, May 7 Creek Float: Floating Art Parade When: Drop off at launch site, 1 to 2 p.m.; parade along Creekwalk in Franklin Square, 3 p.m.; float pickup at 500 Plum St., 4 to 4:30 p.m. What: Celebrate Onondaga Creek with the annual Creek Float Parade. Floats must be less than three feet fall, and at least two to three feet wide. Cost: Free. Where: Downtown Syracuse. Info: facebook.com/creekfloat. Tuesday, May 9 Theatre DuJour presents Murder at the Prom When: Cocktail hour, 5 p.m.; dinner, 6 p.m.; 7 p.m., show. What: Dinner theatre performance written by Peter DePietro. Includes local cuisine, local talent, music and cocktail hour, contests, giveaways and more. Cost: $60. Where: Barnes Hiscock Mansion, 930 James St., Syracuse. Info: grbarnes.org. Wednesday, May 10 Video Games Live: Presented by Symphoria When: 7 p.m. What: Features music from popular video games. Includes pre- and post-show festival featuring game demos, prizes, costume contest, competitions, meet-and-greet and more. Cost: $17 to $62. Where: Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Info: landmarktheatre.org. Wednesday, May 10 CEO Talks: Consensus — Now It’s Up To You When: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. What: Discussion led by Kevin Schwab on how community achieves goals. Check online for more details and to register. Where: 235 Harrison St., Syracuse. Info: centerstateceo.com. Thursday, May 11 Vinyasa Flow and Live Music When: 5:30 to 7 p.m. What: 90-minute vinyasa flow yoga class accompanied by live music from LA-based singer-songwriter Kevin Paris. Cost: $25. Where: O Yoga, 1003 W. Fayette St., Syracuse. Info: theoyogastudio.com. Saturday, May 13 Best Dress Ball When: 7 to 10 p.m. What: Proper attire includes wedding dresses, prom dresses and bridesmaids dresses. Prizes for best dressed. Includes music, hors d’oeuvres, beverages, raffles and silent auction. Cost: $50. Where: Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. Info: everson.org.
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Saturday, May 13 Right to Run 19K and 5K When: 8:30 a.m. What: Proceeds benefit the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Long-distance runner, activist and author Kathrine Switzer is spokesperson. Cost: 19K, $65; 5K, $35. Where: 20 E. Bayard St., Seneca Falls. Info: righttorun19k.org. Sunday, May 14 ProjectOM Vinyasa Flow When: 10 to 11:15 a.m. What: Yoga class benefits Susan G. Koman. Cost: Check online for pricing. Where: O Yoga, 1003 W. Fayette St., Syracuse. Info: theoyogastudio.com. Sunday, May 14 Mother’s Day Brunch When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. What: Check online for menu and pricing. Where: Mirbeau Inn & Spa, 851 W. Genesee St., Skaneateles. Info: mirbeau.com. Thursday, May 11 Friends of the Zoo Annual Meeting When: 8:30 to 11 a.m. What: Agenda includes 2016 organizational highlights, financial report summary and special remarks. RSVP by May 8 to Catherine Cross: (315) 435-8511 x132 or ccross@rosamondgiffordzoo.org. Where: Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Info: rosamondgiffordzoo.org. Saturday, May 13 Mahler’s Titan When: 7:30 p.m. What: Mahler’s Titan Symphony presented by Symphoria. Cost: $52 to $81. Where: Mulroy Civic Center Theaters, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. Info: experiencesymphoria.org. Sunday, May 14 City Market When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. What: Good from local vendors include ceramics, vintage clothing, furniture, home decor, handmade crafts, antiques and more. Museum admission is free this day. Cost: Free admission. Where: Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. Info: citymarketsyracuse.com. Tuesday, May 16 through Sunday, May 21 Motown: The Musical When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday; 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. What: Broadway musical. Cost: $35 to $75. Where: Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Info: landmarktheatre.org.
Thursday, May 18 Mr. Habitat 2017 When: 6 to 9 p.m. What: Annual fundraising event benefits Women Build program. Includes live music, raffles, giveaways, live auction, food and cash bar. Cost: $20. Where: Drumlins, 800 Nottingham Road, Syracuse. Info: syracusehabitat.org. Thursday, May 18 38th Annual Freedom Fund Dinner When: Reception, 5 p.m.; program and dinner, 6 p.m. What: Fundraiser for the Syracuse Onondaga County NAACP. Cost: VIP reception and dinner: $125 per person; $240 per couple. Dinner only: $85 per person; $160 per couple. Where: Holiday Inn, 411 Electronics Parkway, Liverpool. Info: syracusenaacp@gmail.com or (315) 440-6340. Thursday, May 18 Celebrating Life Through Chocolate When: 5:30 to 8 p.m. What: Proceeds benefit Hospice of Central New York. Cost: At door, $35; in advance, $30. Where: Bella Domani, 5988 E. Taft Road, North Syracuse. Info: hospicecny.org/Chocolate-2017. Friday, May 19 Culture Gala When: 6:30 p.m. What: Features five-course meal highlighting international flavors, exhibits,cultural performances and more. Cost: $129; student, $99; table of eight, $800. Where: Sky Armory, 351 S. Clinton St., Syracuse. Info: hopeprint.org/culture-gala. Saturday, May 20 Band Together for Suicide Prevention Fundraiser When: 1 to 5 p.m. What: Live music by Driftwater and The Lightkeepers, raffles and roulette wheel. All proceeds benefit CNY chapter of American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Cost: Free. Where: Sharkey’s Bar and Grill, 7240 Oswego Road, Liverpool. Info: afsp.org/bandtogether. Wednesday, May 24 Daniel O’Donnell When: 7:30 p.m. What: Irish singer is the star of PBS’s The Daniel O’Donnell Show. Cost: $37.50 to $75. Where: Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Info: landmarktheatre.org. Wednesday, May 31 The Building Blocks for Starting a Business When: 5:30 to 7 p.m. What: WISE Women’s Business Center presents an introduction to entrepreneurship. Cost: Free. Where: WISE Women’s Business Center, 235 Harrison St., Syracuse. Info: wisecenter.org.
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movers AND Shakers Owners of Caring Transitions nationally recognized Caring Transitions owners Mike and Jennifer Novak have recently been recognized with a Caring Transitions Shooting Star Award. The award is given to a franchisee that’s experiencing early business growth and has demonstrated a commitment to the success of both their business and the franchise system as a whole. The company’s awards were presented at the Caring Transitions national conference in San Antonio in late February. The Novaks opened Caring Transitions of Syracuse in late 2015. Jennifer’s background was primarily in the health care field, with some experience in marketing, banking and management. Michael served in the military, and then entered management and sales. Mike and Jennifer credit their business growth not only to their business acumen and passion for helping people, but also to the support and training from inside and outside the Caring Transitions system. Caring Transitions of Syracuse serves Syracuse, Clay, Cicero, Brewerton, Bridgeport, Liverpool, Lysander, Baldwinsville, Salina, DeWitt, Fayetteville, Manlius, Minoa, Camillus, North Syracuse, Geddes, Van Buren and Solvay.
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