swm jan feb 2016 final spreads

January / February 2016 SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM 1

COVER

January / February 2016 SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM 32 SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM Celebrating Our 5th Anniversary

CROUSE FULL PAGE


Letter from the Editor .............................................................6Past SWM Events .....................................................................7Fashion Forward: Fashion Resolutions .................................8Platter Chatter: Liehs & Steigerwald ..................................10Fab Finds: Good for the Heart ...........................................16Special Section: Schools of Excellence .............................18Special Feature: Winter Getaways .....................................21WBOC Leading Woman: Carrie Luteran ..........................22WISE Woman: Tracy Hogarth .............................................23Special Section: Everything for the Bride ..........................24Cover Story: Kimberly Townsend ......................................30In Her Own Words: Evelyn Carter .....................................34Busy Woman’s Guide: Well-Woman Visit .........................36Healthy Woman: Beware the Salty Six ..............................38For a Good Cause: Sarah’s Guest House .........................40New in the ‘Cuse: Canino’s Artistic Café ...........................42SW Inspire: Keeley Ann Hines.............................................44SW Inspire: Michelle Alletzhauser ......................................46SW Inspire: Heather Buchman ............................................48 Special Section: SWMCelebrating 5 Years! .....................50Upcoming Events .................................................................54

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PublisherDavid TylerEditorLorna OppedisanoDesignAndrea ReevesPhotographyCindy BellEdges PhotographyTara Hartnett FinnertyGerard H. Gaskin Steven J. PalloneAlice G. PattersonSolon Quinn Chris Szulwach

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Evelyn CarterPaige KellyLorna OppedisanoKyle Anne PallischeckGabrielle Reagan Kristy SmorolAnn Marie StonecypherLindsay Wickham

OUR TEAM

LETTER from the Editor PAST SWM Events• SyracuseFirst’s Buy Local Bash / Nov. 23 / F-Shed

at the Regional Market• SWM Ladies’ Night / Nov. 24 / Muddy Waters, Baldwinsville• WBOC Bourbon & Blues Holiday Bash & Auction / Dec. 2 /

Drumlin’s Country Club• WBOC Monthly Meeting / Jan. 6 / Genesee Grande Hotel

ADVERTISE WITH USUnlike any other publication in the Syracuse 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 Syracuse women. Ads are due on the 15th of the month prior to publication. The print magazines will be distributed locally in over 350 locations and will be in your inbox electronically by the middle of every month.The publication is available free of charge.

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The magazine is published 11 times a year by Syracuse Woman Magazine, LLC and Eagle Publications, 2501 James St., Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13206 Copyright © 2016 Syracuse Woman Magazine, LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or republished without the consent of the publishers. Syracuse Woman Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts, photos or artwork. All such submissions become the property of Syracuse Woman Magazine, LLC and will not be returned.

Advertising salesLinda Jabbour Renee Moonan315.657.0849 315.657.7690

s a couple of you might know, my first day on the job as editor coincided with the Go Red for Women campaign luncheon. I woke up, gussied up, went to

the office for a little while and then headed to The Oncenter for the event. Not yet knowing a soul – not even my two closest coworkers, both of whom I met at the SWM booth – I was a little nervous. First day on the job. First event. First time meeting everyone. And surrounded by a huge group of energetic and powerful women. Walking in, I was afraid it would be a little intimidating; sometimes large groups of unfamiliar people have that affect on me. But I had nothing to fear. The luncheon made for the best

first day ever. I got a chance to meet some wonderful women before the luncheon, eat some great Wegmans food and, my personal favorite, listen to Evelyn Carter’s reflections on her year as chairwoman of the campaign. I also learned a startling fact that will resonate throughout this issue: heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women. I was blown away and slightly ashamed that I, a typically well-informed and intelligent person, didn’t know that. So now I’m honored in my position as editor to help get the word out with our annual Go Red edition.

Leading the way is our cover woman Kim Townsend, president and CEO of Loretto, and this year’s Go Red for Women campaign chairwoman. Kim shared the inspiration behind her decision to join the American Heart Association, how heart disease has affected her family and her strategies to stay heart healthy.

Last year’s chairwoman and previous Go Red cover woman Evelyn Carter has a voice in this edition as well. For “In Her Own Words,” Evelyn reflected back on her year in red.

Kristy Smorol, communications director for the American Heart Association’s Greater Syracuse region, was one of the first people I shook hands with back on that first day in October, and she’s been immensely helpful since. Along with contributing great ideas and inspiration, she wrote two articles herself – Healthy Woman and The Busy Woman’s Guide – giving us the lowdown on two simple ways to stay heart healthy.

Also in the Red category are two of this month’s Inspires, Keeley Ann Hines and Michelle Alletzhauser. Keeley is making an impact in her position as chairwomen of the AHA’s Community Action Committee in Syracuse. She talks about the difference readily-available fresh groceries can make. Michelle, a 22-year heart disease survivor, shares her story and teaches the importance of staying in tune with your body.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Andrea Reeves, of AndreaReevesDesign.com, with whom we’ve contracted to rework the design of the magazine. Along with being a professor at S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and SUNY OCC and art director at Zoey Advertising, Andrea is a freelance multi-media designer, mother and all-around superhero.

Lastly, I hope that everyone will join us for our fifth anniversary. We’re organizing a celebration at the Genesee Grande Hotel on Wednesday, Feb. 3. Visit our Facebook page for more details.

We plan to collect a variety of items for local nonprofit Sarah’s Guest House. The organization has no federal or state funding, so it depends on donations from people like you. You can read more about Sarah’s Guest House in this month’s For a Good Cause.

Stay healthy, stay hearty and Go Red! Lor� On Our CoverKimberly Townsend was photographed by Chris Szulwach of The Story Photography at Loretto in Syracuse.


New Year’s Fashion Resolutionsby Ann Marie Stonecypher

W ith a month or so of the new year under our fashionable belts, the time has come to tackle the dreaded “R-word”: resolutions. Most resolutions involve losing things, like weight

or a bad habit, or gaining things, like more money or a better job. Perhaps this year a fashion resolution is in order. People often say they want to dress with more style, but they don’t know how. What can keep us from changing is being too comfortable with what we are already doing. Comfortable clothes and stylish clothes aren’t mutually exclusive. This is the year to get out of the “comfy clothing zone” and into the “comfortably stylish zone.”

Don’t get stuck in a fashion funk Do you have a drawer full of yoga pants, but you wouldn’t know

a yogi from a boo-boo? Is your favorite ensemble a T-shirt and jeans, and “formal jeans” means no paint stains? Are most of your clothes too big or too small because you haven’t bought new ones in so long? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be in a fashion rut. The good news is you can get out of the rut with a few easy fixes.

If yoga duds are your go-to, there are many comfortable clothes that aren’t emblazoned with sports logos. Stylish clothes come in natural fabrics like cotton, or stretchy ones like microfiber, and are comfortable. Leggings, or even stretch jeans, and a drapey top or sweater paired with cute flats or boots is not only comfortable, but can take you from the grocery store to lunch with friends. Model Donna is wearing her leggings with a jacket-styled sweater, blouse and statement necklace.

For the jeans and T-shirt aficionado, jeans come in so many colors, washes and fits that you can baby-step your transition by just trying on anything different than what you’ve been wearing. Try a dressier fit or darker wash, and pair it with a stylish shoe. Swap out the T-shirt for a sweater or blouse. Model Gianna is wearing her jeans with an oatmeal sweater over a white blouse, with a pretty rhinestone necklace. Wearing clothes that don’t fit is a bad thing because no one knows your story; they just know your clothes don’t flatter you. Shop for a few key pieces to get yourself on a good fashion path so you aren’t overwhelmed: a pair of jeans, pants or skirt for work, a couple basic shirts and blouses, and a blazer. See how many outfits you can make with these new pieces, and then add as you can. Accessories can make your basic pieces look more bodacious. If you normally wear understated jewelry, try stepping out of the comfy, cozy zone and test drive a bolder piece. Nothing dresses up a plain white blouse like a bold necklace. All the models for this shoot brought their own clothes that expressed their personal style; they all donned something that looked good and they felt good wearing. Model Hannah loves overalls, and styled hers with a French-inspired striped tee and stilettos. Model Donna told me, “Fashion is ageless and you should embrace each stage as you feel comfortable in it.” I agree! Style should be comfortable and always reflect who you are, so creating a New Year’s Fashion Resolution doesn’t have to be a revolution, but a fun and easy evolution. Cheers! SWM

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. Models Gianna Dixe, Donna Schneider and Hannah Swick appear courtesy of AMS Models & Talent. The photo was shot at Café 407, Liverpool. Styling by Ann Marie Stonecypher.

FASHION FORWARD New Year’s Fashion Resolutions

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PLATTER CHATTER Liehs & Steigerwald

JEFF STEIGERWALDLIEHS & STEIGERWALDCO-OWNER

“T hirty years ago I was just a kid that walked in off the street looking for a job,” said Chuck Madonna, sausage maker, butcher and co-owner with Jeff Steigerwald of Liehs &

Steigerwald. The duo’s third and newest location in downtown Syracuse celebrated its six-month anniversary on Christmas Eve. Founded by two German immigrants, Ludwig Steigerwald and Kurt Lieh, Syracuse’s oldest and beloved butcher opened its first location on Grant Boulevard in 1936, where it continues to operate as a full-scale butcher shop. When Jeff Steigerwald’s father Bob retired several years ago, he and Chuck took over the business and in time opened a second location on Route 31 in Clay.

The newest shop at 117 E. Fayette St. sets itself apart from the older shops by offering more than just your basic butcher fare. The 2,800 square-foot shop houses a butcher counter, a pub complete with a beer and wine bar, a full deli and a grocery section.

“It’s a very unique situation for Syracuse,” executive chef Keith Loveless said.

Opening a shop close to Armory Square had always been a desire of the Liehs & Steigerwald team, so when the space on Fayette became available, they grabbed it. Downtown Syracuse lacked a place to buy fresh produce and groceries, a necessity for those who might not be able to afford or attain transportation to larger grocery chains outside the city. Canned tomatoes and sauce, dried pasta, spices and dried beans, coffee and tea, milk and yogurt, fresh bread, deli meat, cheese and fresh produce are just some of the offerings.

With custom cuts of pork, beef, chicken and veal, the downtown location offers the same popular items available at the other two locations, including but not limited to land jaeger, conies, kielbasa, knockwurst, liverwurst and hot dogs, with recipes handed down from the founders themselves. Homemade pierogies, Reuben and grilled cheese sandwiches, wraps and something donned the “Mug O’ Bacon” are also on the menu. The restaurant also offers several types of bratwurst, including the favored chicken wing brat stuffed with white breast, blue cheese and hot sauce.

Made in house, the hot pastrami is another unique and favored item on the Liehs & Steigerwald menu, on par with Katz Deli, New York City’s prime pastrami locale, Keith explained.

“I’d go to the Liverpool location every Thursday and buy three pounds of hot pastrami,” he said. “My kids love it. Everybody loves it.”

Try the pastrami on the McCarthy sandwich, combining one pound of shaved hot pastrami piled high on marble rye with melted cheese and house-made spicy mustard.

Another favorite is the Burger of the Week, rotating to a new mouth-watering option every Saturday. Pairing well with one of the four revolving beers on tap, the house-made burger is 90 percent lean and 10 percent fat, topped with sautéed onions and peppers, sliced provolone and, of course, bacon one week and something wildly different the next.

Liehs & Steigerwald: A Syracuse traditionBy Gabrielle Reagan

Providing food for the growing number of downtown residents and businesses is vital. Thanks to a full catering menu, Liehs & Steigerwald downtown has helped satiate hospitals, banks and restaurants in the area, including SUNY Upstate, The Blue Tusk, Chase Bank and Wolff’s Biergarten. An active member of the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Liehs & Steigerwald strives to support the locals. Going back to the start, the company has had consistent providers. At the new location, the team sources from local companies like Terrell’s, Byrne Dairy and Utica’s own Casa. “We want their support and we want to support them as much as we can,” Keith said. SWM Liehs & Steigerwald’s downtown location is open from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday; and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday. For more information, visit liehsandsteigerwald.com or call 299-4799.

10 SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM Celebrating Our 5th Anniversary

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All Go Red for Women items can be found at shopheart.org. Free shipping on orders of $45 or more: promo code AHAFS45.

3“Complete Guide to Women’s Heart Health” book The articles in this Go Red edition of SWM aim to inspire women to protect themselves against heart disease. This book, described as “the Go Red for Women way to well-being and vitality,” picks up where we leave off. This paperback book offers women ideas for making small changes that can lead to a big positive impact on their bodies.

EcoChic Boutique offers Syracuse area women upscale new and consigned clothing. The shop carries apparel and accessories including boots, jewelry, scarves, handbags and more. The boutique’s entire winter stock is half-price during the month of February. Pictured is a Jerry T long pleated jacket, Roz & Ali tunic sweater and solitaire bubble bottom gray skirt.4

3Heart-Shaped Rhinestone EarbudsRock out in style with these red rhinestone earbuds. Each comes in branded plastic packaging with a movable Go Red For Women PVC tag.

Murphy’s Specialized Pastry 4Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, a birthday or just happy it’s Friday, visit Murphy’s Specialized Pastry for special treats. The bakery offers chocolate-covered strawberries, cheesecakes, cream pies, cupcakes, heart sugar cookies and special desserts made just for two. For special packages, call the shop at 692-4229 or visit murphyspastry.com.

3Go Red for Women Heart Measuring SpoonsThis set of four hand-stamped measuring spoons includes a quarter teaspoon, half teaspoon, one teaspoon and one tablespoon.

Bliss Red DressThis satin ball-style gown with a sweetheart neckline, a removeable belt and pockets also comes in white or satin. Wear this Maryn Lindy gown (style #19968) – a Bliss Bridal exclusive – on your wedding day or for a prom, ball or military ball. 4

3Chevron Infinity Red Dress ScarfWear this scarf and show your support of the Go Red for Women campaign. The scarf measures 21 by 70 inches, and comes packaged in a white box with tissue paper and a red ribbon.

Mother/Daughter NecklaceA great present for a family member or friend who’s been affected by heart disease, each necklace in this set of two is made of rhodium and nickel and measures 18 inches. The jewelry is presented on a white backer card, which reads “You will always hold a special place in my heart.” 4 SWM

FAB FINDS Support Go Red!

This satin ball-style gown with a sweetheart neckline, a removeable

wedding day or for a prom, ball or military ball.

Wear this scarf and show your support of the Go Red for Women

A great present for a family member or friend who’s been affected

happy it’s Friday, visit Murphy’s Specialized Pastry for special treats. The bakery offers chocolate-covered strawberries, cheesecakes, cream pies, cupcakes, heart sugar cookies and special desserts made just for two. For special packages, call the shop at 692-4229 or visit murphyspastry.com.

3This set of four hand-stamped measuring spoons includes a quarter teaspoon, half teaspoon, one teaspoon and one tablespoon.

Bliss Red Dress

Rock out in style with these red rhinestone earbuds. Each comes in branded plastic packaging with a movable Go Red For Women

happy it’s Friday, visit Murphy’s Specialized Pastry for special treats.

cream pies, cupcakes, heart sugar cookies and special desserts made just for two. For special packages, call the shop at 692-4229 or visit

January / February 2016 SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM 17

Chris Szolwach Full Page ad

January / February 2016 SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM 1918 SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM Celebrating Our 5th Anniversary January / February 2016 SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM 1918 SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM Celebrating Our 5th Anniversary


W e did it, ladies. We made it through the holidays. We didn’t strangle visiting family members. We didn’t set the house on fire with a cooking disaster. We’ve finally rid our homes of

all the tinsel that magically appeared everywhere after the tree was long gone. We’ve settled into 2016 and we shouldn’t be ashamed to admit it: we’re bored. It’s time to plan a women’s weekend getaway to beat the winter blues. With a world-class wine region at our doorstep, there’s no time like the wintertime to visit the Finger Lakes wineries. There are hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts and even lake houses to rent for accommodations. The best part? You may even have an owner or winemaker as your server at the tasting bar. For larger groups, don’t forget to call a few days ahead to make reservations. This area is also chockful of spas. Many also have hotels or inns, and just like the wineries, this makes for the perfect women’s week-end getaway. Keep it simple with the basic mani/pedi, try the spa’s signature facial or go all-out and enjoy the deep tissue massage.

If you really want to indulge, opt for the ski-spa combo option. Spend your first day out on the slopes and then go pamper your-selves. While your ski chalet may not have the spa attached, you should have a good chance of finding one nearby.

There are beer trails and cheese trails, as well as hiking, snowshoe and cross-country skiing trails. You’ve got touring theater shows to see. Go antiquing or ice fishing. Take a knitting or jewelry-making class. Learn about blown glass at a live demonstration. Start a new tradition and organize a polar plunge!

Wait… Why are we bored?

Get outta townBeat the winter blues with a women’s weekendBy Kyle Anne Pallischeck

Local Finger Lakes wineries: Anyela’s Vineyards, Skaneateles, 685-3797Dr. Frank’s Vinifera Wine Cellars, Hammondsport, (800) 320-0735Fulkerson Winery, Dundee, (607) 243-7883Glenora Wine Cellars, Dundee, (800) 243-5513Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, Hector, (607) 546-9463Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, Dundee, (800) 371-7971Lamoreaux Landing, Lodi, (607) 582-6011Standing Stone Vineyards, Hector, (607) 582-6051Swedish Hill Winery, Romulus, (607) 403-0029Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery, Lodi, (866) 924-6378

If you don’t have the time to travel, check out:Greenwood Winery, 399-0835Lakeland Winery, 277-2675

Local spas and resorts:Belhurst Castle, Geneva, 781-0201Finger Lakes Wellness Center & Health Spa, Bath, (607) 776-3737Geneva on the Lake, Geneva, 789-7190Hope Lake Lodge & Indoor Waterpark, Cortland, (866) 764-7017La Tourelle, Ithaca, (800) 765-1492Mirbeau Inn and Spa, Skaneateles, 685-5006Woodcliff Hotel & Spa, Rochester, (585) 381-4000

Kyle Anne Pallischeck is the marketing communications manager at the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. For more information on the wine trail, visit senecalakewine.com. SWM

SPECIAL FEATURE Winter Getaways


CARR I E LUTERANPRETTY NEAT

WBOC Leading Woman

Inspiring design By Lorna OppedisanoLocation courtesy of Ethan Allen

T here’s a delicate balance between logic and passion. At her job, interior designer and professional organizer Carrie Luteran gets to walk that line every day.

“What I do combines the art and the function,” she explained. Carrie founded Pretty Neat in July 2014. She works with clients to help organize and stylize their lives. She’s always been interested in design, but it wasn’t until later in life that she decided to pursue it as a career. “It didn’t occur to me to do this for a job when I was at that point in college when you decide what it is you’ll do,” she said. Carrie’s first jaunt down the career path landed her in Syracuse University’s Department of Psychology doing research. At SU, she had the opportunity to take some design classes for free. The instruction made her realize that interior design was her passion and she needed to make space for it in her life.

Shortly after, Carrie’s research job was pared down and eliminated. As daunting as it was to go back to school full time with a slew of people half her age and follow that passion for design, she did it.

After graduating, Carrie then worked at Ethan Allen, getting experience doing full design plans.

Carrie eventually decided to take a chance and start her own business, an idea that had been in the back of her mind for a while.

In getting Pretty Neat off the ground, she had to overcome some preconceived notions about careers and the business world.

Being a new business owner, Carrie assumed she’d have to be the typical “business person,” she explained. She soon realized a reassuring fact: people hired her because they like her and appreciate her skill set. No one is the perfect fit for all potential clients; it all comes down to that personal connection. Working out the financial end of things has been a bit of a learning curve, Carrie said, pointing out that she went back to school for design, not for business. The WBOC has been valuable in that regard. “I’ve been able to meet and talk to women who have gone through the process themselves,” she said. “Everyone I’ve met there has been so generous in sharing information and really being open about what’s worked or not worked for them.” Along with learning the ins and outs of running a business, Carrie has also gained some technological knowledge. She’s been much more involved in social media, and designed her own website. “The way people find you as a business has changed a lot,” she explained. “Most people, if they need a service, they’re going to go to their computer and type it in.” That’s how two of Carrie’s current clients, Dawn and Ryan D’Amico, found Pretty Neat. The couple hired her to help with interior design at their new home. Carrie combined the two homeowners’ styles with that of the house to create a masterpiece, they said. “We love working with her. She’s wonderful,” Dawn said. “It feels like she’s part of the family already.” SWM

Women Business Opportunities Connections (WBOC) is a non-profit organization that has been supporting the Syracuse and CNY area for more than 20 years. To become a member, visit wboconnection.org or follow the organization on Twitter at @WBOConnection. Syracuse Woman Magazine is a signature sponsor of the WBOC.

For more information about Pretty Neat, visit prettyneatsolutions.com.

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WISE Woman


SPECIAL SECTION Everything for the Bride


EVERYTHING FOR THE BRIDESecrets to a happy marriage By Lorna Oppedisano

There’s no such thing as the perfect marriage.

Some couples create an image of what they think marriage is supposed to be, and that image that often goes “poof” once reality sets in. Even soulmates are bound to frustrate or irritate one another from time to time.

Couples should express their frustrations. Bottling

up frustrations can eat at a person and eventually destroy a marriage. Talking about the things that are bothering you with your partner opens up a discussion and can help you work through things.

Divorce should not be seen as a viable option.

Couples who want to bail on the marriage at every turn

could be directing their energy toward divorce as the only solution instead of discovering ways to remove the cause of strife. Divorce can sometimes be the easy way out when you think about the work that goes into keeping a marriage working. Experts say that there are a few issues, like adultery, abuse and drug/alcohol addiction, that may be reasonable catalysts for divorce if personal safety and sanity is being compromised.

Make time for romance. It’s easily said but not so

easily done. Too often married couples forget what it was like

to date when all of their attention was spent on

each other instead of the house, kids,

work, etc.

Today there seems to be even

more distractions, from e-mails to texts to pressure and obligations

at the office. Happy couples find the time to

spend quality time with their spouses -- even if that’s only 10

minutes of alone time a day.

Put “we” first. Many people operate on a “me” mental-

ity. When you’re part of a couple, give more to your spouse than you take. If he or she is doing the same, you’re working collectively for the benefit of the marriage instead of yourselves.

Respect each other. Often couples having troubles

realize they treat strangers better than they treat each other. Would you use the insults or unflatter-ing terms that you sometimes throw at your spouse with a complete stranger? Probably not. Good marriages are based on a foundation of respect and love. It’s easy to lose feelings of love if the respect is gone. SWM


SPECIAL SECTION: Brides


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Everything for the Bride

SPECIAL SECTION Everything for the Bride


Kim TownsendGO RED CAMPAIGN CHAIRLORETTO PRESIDENT AND CEO

COVER STORY The Secret to Healthy Heart Balance


continued on page 32

By Lorna Oppedisano

K im Townsend will be the first to admit that she hasn’t completely mastered the “work-life balance.” She’s also likely to point out how unrealistic and potentially limiting that

philosophy can be. With everything Kim is – the president and CEO at Loretto, the mother of six children, the chairwoman of this year’s American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign – trying to cram it all into little boxes of time just isn’t feasible.

“I don’t compartmentalize my life. I just kind of let it flow,” Kim explained. “So I think given all of my outside community interests, and the demands of my job, plus my family, that’s what works for me.”

A Natural FitFrom the time Kim was a girl, she knew what she wanted to do

when she grew up: be a lawyer and, more specifically, help people. When Kim was in elementary school, she admired her friend’s father, the smartest person she knew.

“He did public interest law,” she explained. “I wanted to be a person that would be able to help people and really have the skills that would enable that to happen.”

She began her higher education at Boston University’s College of Communication. She then took time off from school to move to the Syracuse area and start a family. When she was in her 30’s, she returned to school to earn a bachelor’s degree and MBA from Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Management. She loved school, and continued on to fulfill the goal of earning a law degree from Syracuse University College of Law, and then an MPA from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. And she’s not done yet; Kim’s currently enrolled in a doctoral program at St. John Fisher College that she plans to complete in two years.

“It’s really interesting. I really enjoy learning new things, so it really feeds that,” she said. “It’s really fun to be exploring things that are really relevant to my job.”

The field of health care always interested Kim. Even before studying law, she was drawn to the field while she was in accounting. Health care is an exciting, dynamic and ever-evolving field, she said.

“It’s like a giant problem that looks for a solution,” she explained. “And it’s just fun to think about how a new health care system could operate.”

Looking at her work in the field of health – associate general counsel and then senior director of government affairs for Welch Allyn from 2000 to 2013; member of Loretto’s board of directors from 2003 to 2013, and its president from 2011 to 2013; president and CEO at Loretto since late 2013 – coupled with Kim’s drive and determination to help people, it’s no surprise that when asked about six or seven years ago to get involved with the American Heart Association, she accepted. Her first experience with the organization was on the executive leadership team, headed by then-CEO of Welch Allyn Julie Shimer. “I met so many great women,” Kim said. “People who were really mission-minded, but highly effective, and really passionate about the cause. And it kind of caught fire for me.” Previous Go Red chairwoman Anne Messenger can attest to the fact that Kim is a great fit for the position in this year’s campaign. Anne has known Kim in many different leadership

positions since the two met years ago. She witnessed Kim’s work at Welch Allyn, her contributions to Loretto and her efforts with the American Heart Association.

Anne said that Kim is knowledgeable, smart and connected, with a vision and the

ability to transmit it. Kim’s not afraid to ask for help when she needs it, and then listen to and act on the

feedback. Kim can rally the troops to get the job done effectively and efficiently, and have fun in the process.

In short, Anne said, Kim is the best kind of leader: one who not only can inspire people, but who

people will make an effort to follow. “She loves success, in the best sense of the word,” Anne said fondly. “She likes digging in, doing a job and looking

behind her to see terrific outcomes.”

On a Personal Note Working with the American Heart Association taught Kim a fact that still surprises many people: heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women. According to the American Heart Association, an estimated 44 million women in the U.S. are affected by cardiovascular diseases. However, Kim did know firsthand the risk heart disease poses to men. When she was 11 years old, her father almost lost his life to a heart attack. Kim and her parents were on vacation in Venice, Fla. Since her two siblings were much older, Kim had her parents to herself for the trip. One morning, Kim headed to the pool. Her parents planned to meet her, but didn’t show up. She knew that her father hadn’t been feeling well that morning; by the time Kim returned to

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The secret to healthy heart balance


COVER STORY The Secret to Healthy Heart Balance

I met so many great women,” Kim said. “People who were really mission-minded, but highly effective, and really passionate about the cause. And it kind of caught fire for me.”


The secret to healthy heart balancecontinued from page 31

the room, her mother had already called the ambulance. Kim was instructed to stay in the hotel room with the door locked until her mother returned.

“And that was back before cell phones, right? So that’s 1975,” she reminisced. “I’m in a nice hotel room, no information, waiting to hear if he was going to be OK, or if he wasn’t going to be OK. It was really scary.”

About seven or eight hours later, after her father went through testing and was admitted to the hospital, Kim’s mother returned to the room. The family stayed in town for a few days so her father could stabilize, and then flew back home to New Hampshire to get him to a cardiologist.

Then came the life-long task of changing his daily habits to keep his health and heart in check.

“My dad was a wonderful person, but he was not a healthy eater,” Kim said. “He was the king of sweets and a little overweight. And really loved sweets.”

Kim’s father learned to control his weight and paid close attention to his diet and exercise. He lived to be 93 years old with the help of medication and his cardiologist.

Before her father’s health issues, Kim wasn’t aware of any hereditary heart problems.

“But certainly, we now know that there’s a history in our family,” she said. “So I’m very mindful of knowing my numbers, trying to have a healthy diet, trying to exercise. All of those things that we know contribute to good heart health.”

The “Why”Seeing the field of health care evolve has given Kim a good

perspective on the advancements in heart health research, but there’s still a lot of work to be done.

“I think it’s very sad that in a time where there’s so much innovation in medical technology advancement that heart attacks are still the No. 1 killer of women,” she said.

She hopes that in 25 years, heart disease will be a thing of the past, and not the major health concern it is now. She’d like to see it devolve to the status that chicken pox holds now. The American Heart Association is well on its way to making that dream a reality, she said.

“It’s research. It’s education. It’s helping women know their numbers. It’s empowerment. It’s all of those things,” she said.

Having been in Kim’s position in 2013, Anne said that she hopes Kim and the American Heart Association can cut that 25-year dream number down to an even smaller figure. And, like Kim said, that starts with raising awareness and knowledge of the cause.

“Probably my biggest lesson learned from that whole thing was how little women, including really smart women understood about heart disease,” Anne said, “and that they could actually do very simple things to position themselves better for their health.” Anne included herself among this group of women who could and should have more knowledge of their heart health and with that, more control of their lives. Much like Kim, Anne stressed that trying to fit everything into a tidy 9-to-5 schedule just doesn’t work all the time. “Work-life balance – it’s a myth,” she said. “Don’t set yourself up to believe that it’s achievable. You just figure out how to work it in.” Anne said that she learned long ago that contrary to what some people might think, putting one’s own health first is not at all selfish. It’s a priority. Not only does Kim take care of her health and also that of her family, but she also has managed to juggle many plates with grace and seemingly little effort, Anne said. “She’s a wife. She’s a mother. She’s a CEO. She’s a volunteer. She’s a student,” Anne listed. “Her kids are terrific. She’s amazing to me.” In Kim’s day-to-day, she keeps her heart health in mind. She makes sure to put her priorities first and not stress too much about the mythical “work-life balance.” She puts aside time to exercise each day. She’s conscious of what she eats. And every day, she keeps her Go Red “why” – her family, specifically her five daughters – in mind, making herself available to them 24/7, regardless of any other responsibilities. Like any mother, Kim encourages her daughters to pay attention to their health, especially with the history of heart disease in their family. “I encourage my daughters to consider their diets. Look at the amount of physical activity they’re getting. Look for healthy ways to reduce stress in their lives,” she said. “Do those things that they’re really passionate about that create fulfillment and enjoyment, because I think all of those things are a component of a healthy life.” SWM

To get involved in the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign, contact Franklin Fry, executive director of the Greater Syracuse American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, at [email protected]. For more information on the campaign, visit goredforwomen.org or facebook.com/americanheartnewyork, or follow @HeartCNY on Twitter.

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IN HER OWN WORDS Evelyn Carter

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My year in red By Evelyn Carter

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‘HOUR OF CODE’ Event shares the importance of technology with parents, teachers

SWEETHEART(s)MAKE SOME SWEETS FOR YOUR

The loves of my lifeFrom the editor

Syracuse Parent Magazine is your local resource for information, tips, recipes, parenting trends and more when it comes to families in Central New York!

Find our more at syracuseparent.net or call (315) 434-8889.

Pick up the latest edition at hundreds of CNY locations!





Pick up the latest edition at hundreds of CNY locations!


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SWM-JAN-FEB-2016.indd 35 1/17/16 11:49 PM


THE BUSY WOMAN’S GUIDE Well-Woman Visits

How to keep your health in checkBy Kristy Smorol

W omen lead busy lives, but we can’t take care of our to-do lists if we don’t take care of ourselves. Early detection and preventative care can make all the difference in the battle

against the No. 1 killer of women: heart disease. Every woman should make time in her schedule for a well-woman visit with her health care provider. These visits are also known as wellness visits or well-woman exams. The well-woman visit is an annual physical and discussion about your health to help identify serious concerns before they become life-threatening. Well-woman visits may be conducted by your family physician, internist or OB-GYN. You could even visit a non-physician provider, such as a nurse practitioner or physician assistant. These yearly visits are different for each woman. They are tailored to your age, family history, medical history and need for preventative screenings.

The good news is Medicare and most private health insurance plans are now required to cover preventative services like the well-woman visit. As long as your doctor is part of your network, you won’t even be charged a co-pay.

Since heart disease is the leading health threat to women, your discussion with your doctor should have a special emphasis on early signs of heart disease. Approximately 80 percent of heart disease is preventable, and it’s always better to prevent a disease than treat it after it becomes life-threatening. Your health care provider might test your cholesterol, body mass index, blood pressure or perform other evaluations designed to assess your heart health. This is a great opportunity to discuss any concerns and work toward lowering your risk of heart disease and stroke. Be sure to ask questions and be honest with your health care provider about what’s really going on with your body.

“Always ask what you can do at all ages to stay healthy, whether that means getting a screening colonoscopy or being on preventive medicines, or knowing what kind of diet or exercise plan is right for you,” said Dr. Uzma Iqbal, cardiologist with SJH Cardiology Associates and past president of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association advisory board in Syracuse. “Yearly checkups and tests with your doctor are very important because they help find problems before they start, or in the early stages when your chances for treatment and cure are better.”

Your well-woman visit can also include screenings for other health concerns for women, like breast or cervical cancer, osteoporosis or prenatal care, as well as “gender-neutral” concerns like obesity, colon cancer, flu shots or pneumonia.

To help your well-woman visit go smoothly and efficiently, we have provided a list of dos and don’ts:

DO make sure your health care provider is part of your insurance network. As long as he or she is within your network, these preventive services will be covered. Make sure to bring your insurance card.DO know your family history before you go. Check with close relatives to see if any diseases tend to run in your family, like heart disease, stroke, diabetes or cancer.DO be prepared to disrobe for the exam. You may be asked to wear a hospital gown.DON’T be afraid to ask questions. Talk to your health care provider about concerns and ask for clarification for anything you don’t understand.DON’T eat for a few hours before the exam. A recent meal can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Check with your health care provider’s office to see how long they recommend fasting. You should still drink water before the appointment.DON’T forget to schedule next year’s appointment as well. The longer you go between physical exams, the higher the chances are that a health problem could go undetected and cause damage to your body. SWM

Kristy Smorol is the communications director for the American Heart Association’s Greater Syracuse division. For more information on well-woman visits, check out goredforwomen.org/well-woman-visit.


W e all know reading nutrition labels is important, but there’s

one crucial element you may be overlooking. Most of us pay close attention to the information about calories, fat and carbs, but we should be inspecting the amount of sodium as well.

Sodium is an essential nutrient, but too much of it can put you at risk for high blood pressure, heart attack, heart failure, stroke and more. Eating too much salt can even impact your appearance, leading to bloating and weight gain.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends eating 2,300 mg of sodium per day. The American Heart Association goes even further, recommending just 1,500 mg per day for ideal heart health. However, the average American consumes close to 3,500 mg of sodium every day.

When there is extra sodium in your bloodstream, it pulls water into your blood vessels, increasing the total volume of blood inside. With more blood flowing through, blood pressure increases. You can think of it like turning up the water supply on a garden hose; the pressure in the hose increases as more water

Beware the Salty Six By Kristy Smorol

is blasted through it. As time passes, high blood pressure can damage vessel walls, contribute to plaque buildup that can block blood flow and force your heart to work harder to pump blood through the body. Putting down the salt shaker at the dinner table can help reduce your sodium consumption, but even without that cutback, you’re probably eating too much sodium. About 10 percent of sodium intake comes from the salt shaker, and about 12 percent occurs naturally in food. The rest – more than 75 percent – comes from processed, prepackaged or restaurant foods. The American Heart Association refers to the top sodium sources in the U.S. diet as the “Salty Six.” Be on the lookout for these foods:g breads and rollsg cold cuts and cured meatsg pizza g soup g sandwiches g poultry

Be sure to check the nutrition labels for sodium content. Some brands of these foods have less sodium than others, and some come in lower sodium versions.

It can be tougher to figure out sodium content when you’re dining out. New York City is taking a proactive approach to help consumers cut back on salt. In September, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene unanimously passed a new regulation that would require a special warning on foods that exceed 2,300 mg of sodium. “The Sodium Warning Label, in the form of a salt shaker inside of a warning triangle, is an easily interpreted, simplistic way for consumers to know that a restaurant item is excessively high in sodium content,” said Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum, attending cardiologist and director of Women’s Heart Health of Lenox Hill Hospital, who was one of several volunteers who supported the regulation. “The sodium limit of 2,300 mg is a benchmark that shouldn’t be exceeded over the course of a day, let alone in one meal.” The regulation applies only to restaurant chains with 15 or more locations nationwide. In December, the National Restaurant Association filed a lawsuit to block the regulation, pointing out that calorie counts

are posted on menus and sodium content is available to consumers upon request. The group said the regulation will be overly burdensome for restaurants. As of press time, no decision has been made in the case. No matter where you go out to eat, there are ways to help control your sodium intake at restaurants. You can ask to have your dish prepared without extra salt. Taste your food before adding your own salt; it may not need any. Beware of foods described with the words brined, barbecued, cured, smoked, broth, au jus, soy sauce, miso, pickled or teriyaki sauce. Those tend to be high in sodium. Ask your server for sodium content information. Chain restaurants should have the information available on request. Many restaurants and food companies are already reducing the amount of sodium in their food, so there are more options out there for sodium-conscious diners. Keep reading those nutrition labels, and don’t forget to check the sodium content! SWM Kristy Smorol is the communications director of the American Heart Association’s Greater Syracuse division.

HEALTHY WOMAN Beware the Salty Six


W hen a 34-year-old single mother of three phoned Sarah’s Guest House inquiring about fees, stressed about the money she needed to save in order to start a five-week

run of chemotherapy, she heard the cost and abruptly hung up. Quickly, she dialed back to apologize, explaining through sobs she didn’t believe such kindness existed. “People will not have treatment because they can’t figure out the logistics of it,” said Jennifer Coman, executive director of Sarah’s Guest House. “We hear about people sleeping in waiting rooms for two weeks until someone tells them about us.” A former convent located at 100 Roberts Ave. in Syracuse’s Strathmore neighborhood, Sarah’s Guest House provides lodging, meals, transportation and comfort for patients and their families receiving medical care in Central New York. “We try to make them feel at home,” Jennifer said. “The comfort happens organically. Everybody helps each other out, like birds in a storm.”

The building is comprised of 11 rooms, two of which are wheelchair accessible, two kitchens, two common areas and laundry facilities. Located two miles from most area hospitals, Sarah’s Guest House is the only organization of its kind in the area offering an affordable and compassionate alternative to those traveling away from home for necessary medical care. Since welcoming its first guest in 1993, the organization has housed more than 15,000 guests. The house has served as home-away-from-home to people for more than 40,000 nights.

“It’s more of a mission than a business,” former executive director Mary Keough said. Mary founded the original Sarah House, a tiny four-bedroom home next to the convent, after her nephew Billy was diagnosed with leukemia at 22 years old. During his travels far from home for bone marrow transplants, Billy and his family discovered Hospital Hospitality Houses, organizations that provide an affordable and compassionate home-away-from-home

Sarah’s Guest HouseHome Away From Home By Gabrielle Reagan

FOR A GOOD CAUSE Sarah’s Guest House

to those facing the scariest time in their lives. In 2010, the original Sarah House was torn down and after 17 years of hospitality, Mary handed the reins over to Jennifer, who had been volunteering at Sarah’s Guest House since 2007. Sarah’s Guest House asks $20 per night per person; but the true cost per occupant is closer to $50 a night. The organization doesn’t receive any federal or state funding. To make up the difference, Sarah’s Guest House relies heavily on generosity from the community. Comprised of one full-time executive director, three part-time staff members and one bookkeeper, the organization thrives thanks to a small group of core volunteers. They help cook, clean, garden, coordinate events and transport patients to and from the hospital at all hours. “The biggest struggle has been awareness. So few people know about us,” Jennifer said. “Ours is such a simple organization that has a direct impact on peoples’ lives, but it’s not a common concept.” As smaller hospitals outside the city close and treatments become more specialized, more and more people are traveling away from home for medical care; for many people, extended stay could cause considerable financial hardship. The demand is high as it’s ever been, Jennifer said. While confirmation from a medical provider is required for lodging, Sarah’s Guest House doesn’t turn anyone away for inability to pay. This year’s signature fundraising event, The Roaring Twenties: A Gala of Giving, is planned for Saturday, April 2 at Drumlin’s Country Club. Sarah’s Guest House welcomes volunteers to help with meal preparation, housekeeping, patient transportation and fundraising. A wish list of donation items can be found on its website. SWM

Sarah’s Guest House is a member of the Healthcare Hospitality Network. For more information on lodging or volunteer opportunities, contact Jennifer Coman at [email protected] or call 475-1747.

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NEW IN THE ‘CUSE Canino’s Artistic Café

Sherry CaninoLOCAL ARTIST WITH A PASSION

By Lorna Oppedisano

L ocal artist Sherry Canino is inviting anyone and everyone, from artistic

maestros to stick figure extra-ordinaires, to sip and paint with her at Canino’s Artistic Café. An alternative to the trendy booze and brush gatherings of late, Sherry’s classes have a different approach and end goal.

“With all those sip and paints out there, I wanted my venue to be more where anybody can come and feel comfortable,” she explained. “And the drink of choice is coffee.”

Sherry plans to hold classes on the second Tuesday of each month at Café at 407 in Liverpool. The only fee for the class is a $10 donation to Ophelia’s Place.

Sherry founded her business a little more than a year ago, but has been an artist for more than a decade and taught classes in the past. Her art has been displayed at the Everson Museum of Art’s annual Festival of Trees. She’s been a guest artist on the StencilGirl Products blog. Her new venture is a way to share with others the healing powers art has played in her life.

About 12 years ago, Sherry discovered scrapbooking. She had gone back to college and earned an accounting degree, which she still uses today doing work for her husband’s business. But Sherry, who had been creative from a young age, explained that just because she had a talent with numbers didn’t mean she was crazy about her career. She began going to scrap-booking gatherings, also

known as “crops,” as a pastime. While other people were using traditional practices and materials, writing on and gluing items to the pages, Sherry broke from the norm and actually painted in her book. “People just didn’t do that,” explained Sherry’s friend and fellow scrapbooker, Karen Barber. The two met about 10 years ago at a scrapbook crop. “You just didn’t paint on your paper. You just really didn’t do that.” Karen described Sherry’s pages as elaborate and artsy mixed media pieces, adding that Sherry developed into “that artistic-type scrapbooker.” Since those first fateful brush strokes, both Sherry and her art have grown and evolved. “The turning point really was when I was using it to heal from everything,” Sherry said, thinking back to her realization that art was more than just a pastime. It was a part of her. Sherry describes her art as a kind of therapy to work through the struggles she’s faced in life and relationships. Now that she’s at a point where teaching one class a month is feasible, Sherry wants to help other people find healing, peace, escape or whatever they may need through art, she said. Sherry plans to teach art journaling in her upcoming Canino’s Artistic Café classes. Like in any form of art, the concept of journaling is both straightforward and open to individual interpretation. In a few words, an art journal is a visual diary. It can be painted

So many people think, ‘I can’t do art’ or ‘I’m no good at it.’ I would like to get rid of that myth.”

Canino’s Artistic CaféFrom pastime to passion to pro

in, drawn in, written in, glued on—anything goes. Sherry explained that in her own book, she tends to write journal excerpts and then paint over the words. For the purpose of the classes, she has a number of prompts and themes ready, and then plans to let the students take it from there. “It’s an expression of your own art or whatever you’ll want to make,” she explained. Sherry hopes to break some barriers and dispel myths with Canino’s Artisitic Café. She stressed that these classes are for everyone. Whether woman or man, with any level of discovered or dormant talent, anyone with an interest in art is invited to join. “So many people think, ‘I can’t do art’ or ‘I’m no good at it,’” she said. “I would like to get rid of that myth.” More than imparting any sort of artistic skill or technique, Sherry hopes to help people. She sees the classroom as a safe space to share, learn, grow and let go of past turmoil. Seeing Sherry use her craft as a tool for personal growth, Karen attested to the power of art. “She seems to be a person who has come to terms with her life and what’s on her plate and has really grown from that,” Karen said. Sherry describes what art journaling means to her in a few simple words. “It’s just so peaceful and calming,” she said. “It’s for yourself.” SWM

For more information and to sign up for classes, visit facebook.com/CaninosArtisticCafe or email Sherry

at [email protected].

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Keeley Ann HinesChairwoman of the American Heart Association’s Syracuse region Community Action Committee

INSPIRE Keeley Ann Hines

It takes more lives than cancer,” Keeley said. “People think, ‘Well, it’s not going to happen to me because I don’t have diabetes and my cholesterol is in check. I’m not overweight and I exercise.’”

Keeley Ann HinesChairwoman of the American Heart Association’s Syracuse region Community Action Committee

A call to actionBy Paige Kelly

R esponsible for about 610,000 deaths a year, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both men and women in the U.S., according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Keeley Ann Hines, CPA, a principal with the Bonadio Group in Syracuse, is attempting to lower that number. She began working with the American Heart Association about a year and a half ago, and now serves as board member and chairwoman of the AHA’s Syracuse region Community Action Committee. Keeley wanted to give back to her community, and like many others who join the AHA, the issue hit home for her as well. Keeley’s mother struggles with heart disease.

“It was an atypical case in terms of being physically fit. She did what she was supposed to do in terms of eating vegetables, and yet she was still struck with it. By the time she was 44, she had her first bypass surgery,” Keeley said. “You realize it really can hit anybody. So when a board position popped up, I eagerly said ‘Yes, I’m interested.’”

One of the Community Action Committee’s main goals is to improve healthy food financing in the city, in turn aiming to reduce food deserts. Food deserts are urban areas with a poverty rate of more than 20 percent and no full-service grocery stores. In these regions, healthy food options are not readily available, and may not be financially feasible for many residents.

Within the city of Syracuse, there are four major food deserts. Most people end up grocery shopping at convenience stores that have loopholes regarding stocking.

“If you ever go to one of those stores, you might see onions. The reason they’re probably doing that is to fulfill some sort of ordinance to have fresh produce. It qualifies, and it has a long shelf life, but no one is going to bite into an onion,” Keeley explained.

The committee is in the preliminary phases of looking forward to long-term changes.

“We’ve looked into some other states and communities who have done studies on these corner stores, because this is where people are being forced to do their grocery shopping,” she explained. “We want to make this a step in the right direction through getting stores funding, new signage, revamping the store or even reusing things they already have. There are some corner stores, like one in Minnesota, where they began putting produce in soda coolers and re-shifted the store so the first thing you see when you walk in isn’t tobacco products and chips. The goal is to show these storeowners that you can get a profit from this if we do it right.”

Keeley said the most difficult part of her work with the committee is getting people to recognize the urgency of heart disease on a consistent basis. The greatest misconception surrounding heart disease is the ‘it-won’t-happen-to-me’ assumption many people make. “It takes more lives than cancer,” Keeley said. “People think, ‘Well, it’s not going to happen to me because I don’t have diabetes and my cholesterol is in check. I’m not overweight and I exercise.’ They think if all of those things are in check, they can’t end up falling victim to cardiovascular diseases. And they absolutely can.” A bad diet and lack of exercise are well-known causes of heart disease, but high stress and poor mental and emotional health can also contribute. “The biggest piece of advice is if you’re not feeling well and you think something might be wrong, you have to go talk to your doctor about it. You can’t ignore it,” Keeley urged. “It could be nothing and that’s great, but you can’t ignore it.” Laws affecting heart health in New York state have changed since Keeley began working with the AHA. It’s now a state requirement for all high school students to learn hands-only CPR. According to AHA data, if more people knew CPR, more lives would be saved, as more than 326,000 people suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests each year. Keeley has seen change first-hand prior to joining the AHA board. Babies are now screened for critical congenital heart disease through a pulse oximetry test. She explained that when her first daughter was born in 2011, there was no at-birth heart screening. When her second daughter was born in 2014, all babies in the state were screened. “Seeing progress like that is very rewarding,” Keeley said. “I think we’re going to continue seeing the health of Americans improve and see death counts reduced because of these efforts.” SWM

For more information or to get involved with the Community Action Committee, contact Franklin Fry, executive director of the Greater Syracuse American Heart Association/American Stroke Association at [email protected].

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INSPIRE Michelle Alletzhauser

MICHELLEALLETZHAUSER 22-Year Heart Disease Survivor

Michelle herself said that she wishes she’d been more vocal with her OBGYN and paid more attention to her body and possible warning signs. The risk of heart disease runs in Michelle’s family. The majority of her six brothers have hypertension now. Her father suffered from a heart attack, and he was a runner at the time.

Michelle, an athlete all her life as well, stressed that heart problems could affect anyone. “You never know,” she said. “You could be healthy. You could be the sickest person in the world.” A survivor who’s made

changes to her life, but still clearly calls the shots, Michelle is a good role model to busy working women. She not only monitors her health, but also makes an effort to listen to everything her body tells her. When she feels that it’s time to take a rest, she does. When the stress builds up, she takes a deep breath, maybe gets a massage, and does not sweat the small stuff. Being in tune with her body lets her dictate her own life. “Being that I had a near-death experience, I looked at things totally differently,” she said. “Besides just doing what I needed to do to make sure I was there for my family, I wanted to make sure that I enjoy my life.” SWM

When you’re young, you don’t have that fear of death. And I still don’t to this day.” – Michelle Alletzhauser

MICHELLE ALLETZHAUSER22-year heart disease survivor

Tuned to your bodyBy Lorna Oppedisano

Not many people can say they don’t fear the end of life. Not many people can say they’ve gone into cardiac arrest and had their last rites read to them. Not many people

can say they’ve had a near-death experience. But Michelle Alletzhauser can honestly say all of these things. “When you’re young, you don’t have that fear of death,”

she said. “And I still don’t to this day.” When she was 27 years old, Michelle was in the hospital

delivering her first child. Three days after her son’s birth, she went into cardiac arrest. She had undetected pre-eclampsia and pulmonary edema, which led to congestive heart failure. She was placed on a ventilator and the doctors told her family she might not make it. When she pulled through, they said it was a miracle.

Michelle’s cardiologist, Dr. Russel Silverman, diagnosed her with pulmonary edema, mitral valve prolapse and hypertension, and told her she’d need to be monitored indefinitely.

Michelle was also told she shouldn’t have more children. But with close monitoring of a perinatologist, Michelle delivered two more children via c-section. As a result of hypertension, they were both born about five weeks before the projected due dates.

Now, 22 years after that first experience, Michelle has learned to pay close attention to her body, but has in no way let her heart problems rule her day-to-day routine.

“I’m not going to not live my life,” she said. Michelle exercises. She takes

her medication regularly. She stays away from caffeine. She avoids salty foods. She plays softball. She works full time. She’s a mother full time. She’s on a few different boards, including ARISE. Long story short, she lives a very full life.

Michelle’s friend Denise McGraw, a survivor of heart disease and stroke herself, said even though Michelle pays close attention to her own health, the hardest part of the changes she’s made is probably her tendency to put everyone else first.

“She’s amazing. She does so much for everybody,” Denise said. Denise went on to explain that this is a habit many women fall

prey to, regardless of their level of health. They spend so much time and energy caring for and worrying about others that their own issues – and possible warning signs – fall to the wayside.

“That is just so critical when it comes to all of this. I was making excuses that it was a headache, I was dehydrated,” Denise said, thinking back to her own health issues. “We just did the same thing.”

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Heather BuchmanEducation and Outreach Coordinator at Symphoria

INSPIRE Heather Buchman

By Lorna Oppedisano

Music is life for Symphoria conductor Heather Buchman. “When I first became seized with the passion of music, what I wanted was to be in the center of the music,”

she explained. Heather joined her school band in the fifth grade,

and accidentally ended up on trombone. Fast forward years later: the musician graduated from the Eastman School of Music, and landed her first job as principal trombonist in the San Diego Orchestra.

Almost a decade after that, the orchestra went bankrupt, putting Heather at a crossroads. She decided to pursue her interest in being in the center of it all, and attended the University of Michigan and then The Juilliard School to study conducting.

“Actually becoming a professional conductor is more comparable to learning a whole new instrument,” Heather said. “It’s unique to all of the other musical instruments in that your craft is silent. Instead, it uses movement to communicate how sound is to be made and to bring people together.”

Heather joined Hamilton College in 2001 as director of the Hamilton College Orchestra and Chamber Music program.

About a decade later, when the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra went bankrupt, Heather’s skills and experiences led her to be an instrumental part of the newly forming Symphoria. Having been through a similar experience in San Diego, Heather knew what it was like, how devastating it would be for the musicians – many of whom were colleagues at Hamilton College – and how it would affect the surrounding area.

Many different people from across different sectors came together to form Symphoria, one of only two co-op orchestras in the country.

“What that means in practice is that the musicians are the business owners,” Heather explained. “Which, in my book, makes them heroes. So we all owe them our gratitude for keeping the music going.”

Heather, Symphoria’s Education and Outreach Coordinator, has been essential in leading the new orchestra down a unique path and cultivating the innovative programs it offers the Central New York area.

“She’s extremely smart and very well-informed and passionate about this art form and our need to connect people with it,” Symphoria managing director Catherine Underhill said. “She’s been particularly helpful in encouraging the orchestra to branch out.”

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Along with the typical performances at the Crouse-Hinds Theater, Symphoria performs a variety of children’s concerts at Inspiration Hall, each with an interactive pre-concert component, as well as the Spark series, which transplants the musicians to a unique environment not typically used for orchestral performance. In the past, Spark has brought Symphoria to the Everson Museum of Art and the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology, just to name a couple. Thanks to her experience with a similar program at Hamilton College, Brainstorm!, Heather has been crucial to Spark’s success. “We go inside the space and think about what the character or purpose of that space is,” she said, “and think about what music can happen in that space that will go with the purpose or the character.” The idea of finding unique spaces and marrying their character or purpose with the specially-chosen music results in a multi-sensory experience, Heather explained.

Along with her continued work teaching and conducting at Hamilton College and her crucial part in Symphoria, Heather recently added another art form to her repertoire: ballet. “I’ve had the realization that dancers are at the center of the

music as well,” she said. “Conductors and dancers both embody the music, although in slightly different ways.” Heather explained that both instrumental musicians and dancers deal with movement in the physical world, but are also working in space; dancers move through space and musicians move sound through space. “There are really a lot of lines that connect the two in ways that are really interesting for me to explore right now,” she said. Although she is an educator herself, Heather will never stop learning and encouraging others to do the same. In every field from literature to physics, music has the potential to connect, and that’s fun and interesting to her, Heather explained. Drawn to music all her life, she can attest to its power. “Music helps. Music really helps sometimes when nothing else does,” she said. “All the arts do. And I think music because it goes literally inside our ears and inside ourselves.” SWM

For more information about Symphoria, visit experiencesymphoria.org or facebook.com/SymphoriaCNY.

HEATHER BUCHMANEducation and Otreach Coordinator at Symphoria

Breaking musical barriers

When I first became seized with the passion of music, what I wanted was to be in the center of the music.” – Heather Buchman



CELEBRATING 5 Years of Syracuse Woman Magazine



Tuesday, Feb. 3SWM Fifth Anniversary PartyWhen: 6 to 8:30 p.m.What: Come celebrate five years of Syracuse Woman Magazine

with drink specials, appetizers, vendors and more. The event is free, but we ask that you bring a donation to Sarah’s Guest House. The nonprofit organization is in need of Keurig K-Cups, laundry soap, Downy fabric softener, plastic food storage containers, gift certificates to Target or Wegmans, gas cards, postage stamps, light bulbs, toilet paper and paper towels.

Where: Genesee Grande Hotel, 1060 E. Genesee St., Syracuse.Info: facebook.com/SyracuseWomanMagazine

Tuesday, Feb. 3WBOC Monthly Meeting: Courageous CommunicationWhen: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.What: Through this workshop, local psychologist and life coach

Chris Allen aims to teach strategies to communicate openly, powerfully and courageously.

Where: Genesee Grande Hotel, 1060 E. Genesee St., Syracuse.Info: wboconnection.org

Saturday, Feb. 6Sled for RedWhen: 4 to 7 p.m. What: Raise money for ACR Health with food, drinks and

a cardboard sledding derby and tubing party.Where: Four Seasons Golf & Ski Center,

8012 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville.Info: acrhealth.org

Saturday, Feb. 27Symphoria’s Shakespeare CelebrationWhen: 7:30 p.m.What: Conductor Lawrence Loh plans to lead the orchestra in

renditions of selections from Mendelssohn’s “A Midsummer’s Night Dream,” Bernstein’s “West Side Story” and Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet Suite.” Tickets range from $20 to $80.

Where: Crouse-Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse.Info: experiencesymphoria.org; 299-5598;

facebook.com/SymphoriaCNY

Saturday, Feb. 13Beats in the Sheets: Music To Get Down ToWhen: Doors at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m.What: Kick off the Valentine’s Day weekend with live

performances by local musicians. Advance tickets, $20; at the door, $25. A portion of the proceeds benefit ACR Health.

Where: The Palace Theater, 2384 James St., Syracuse.Info: oridgeinalproductions.com; 404-9784;

facebook.com/oRIDGEinalproductions

Saturday, Feb. 13Cupid’s MasqueradeWhen: 7 to 11 p.m.What: Celebrate the holiday weekend with a menu of heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, open bar, DJ and dancing. Cost: $75.Where: Sky Armory, 351 S. Clinton St., Syracuse.Info: skyarmory.com

Monday, Feb. 15 through Sunday, Feb. 2812th Annual Downtown Dining WeeksWhen: Throughout two-week period.What: Presented by Renzi Foodservice and the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, dining weeks aims to introduce diners to new and established restaurants in downtown Syracuse. Each restaurant plans to offer a select menu of three courses for $25 or less.Where: Throughout downtown Syracuse; check online for a list.Info: downtownsyracuse.com/diningweek

Thursday, Feb. 25BizBuzz Social Media ConferenceWhen: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.What: Event focuses on the use of social media in business. Day-long workshop to include 10 speakers, a social collaborative “lab,” food throughout the day and a cocktail networking party to close. Cost: $99.Where: Sky Armory, 351 S. Clinton St., Syracuse.Info: skyarmory.com or bizbuzzconf.com

Friday, Feb. 26Glitter GalaWhen: 5 to 9 p.m.What: The third annual Glitter Gala offers girls and women ages 2 to 102 an extravagant evening of dinner, photos, princesses, dancing, raffles and more. The event benefits the Cpl. Kyle R. Schneider Foundation, St. Joseph’s NICU and the Syracuse Chapter of Make-a-Wish. Tickets: adult, $45; child, $35.Where: Drumlins Country Club, 800 Nottingham Road, Syracuse.Info: Email [email protected]

UPCOMING SWM Events

swm jan feb 2016 final spreads

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