syracuseWomanmag.com :: january 2015 1

january 2015

w w w . s y r a c u s e w o m a n m a g . c o m

college, jobs, pregnancy and beyondRunning Through

the year of youfitness

susan mccauley chrIstI smIth aprIl Ward

sw inspire

special wedding

insert

home dÉcor tIps to heat up the

neW year

you can do it

I lost 80 lbs. and found my sense of adventure.

Corrine couldn’t find the courage to step out of her comfort zone. Since having weight-loss surgery, she’s stepping into her harness and finding comfort high above the trees. And at Crouse, she’s discovered a support group, along with trusted surgeons and nutritional experts who encourage her quest for a happier, healthier life. Come to our next weight-loss surgery seminar and discover what you can find.

crouse.org/weightloss

A partnership with CNY Surgical Physicians

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10

38

48

20

26 34

letter from the editor 6

out & about 7

fashion forward 8

platter chatter: jake hafner’s 10

healthy Woman: detox safely 12

sWm’s special Wedding section 13

special feature: photographer tips 14

In her own Words 20

new in the cuse: sKy armory 22

dollars & sense 24

cover story: natalie gingerich mackenzie 26

special feature: miss syracuse 34

you can do It 36

fitness: the year of you 38

syracuse Women Inspire 41

for a good cause: operation soap dish 46

sWm main events 48

sWm calendar 49

ask amber 50

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46

January

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Finding Warmth In The Snow I am a sunshine girl. As soon as we get that first warm, spring day in Upstate New York, I’m the one outside in a t-shirt and flip flops soaking it all in — even if it is only 50 degrees out. I attribute part of this to being born smack dab in the middle of summer, the other part to being a runner.

Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie, our January cover woman, likes the warm days, too, but she also finds peace in the snow. You can find her on speckled winter days running around the Westcott neighborhood with her 2-year-old Henry. A natural-born runner, Natalie has learned that the sport is more than just that — it’s bonding time with her son, husband Sam and friends; it’s a career of writing about running, fitness and health; it’s something she needs regularly to stay grounded. Natalie shares her story, along with some advice on staying active in the harsh CNY winter, must-haves for moms who want to stay fit and tips for raising active children.

Since many of us fall prey to the snow and gray winter days, interior designer and declutter expert Carrie Luteran shares some ways to “inject life into your interiors and boost your mood” in our new do-it-yourself section called “You Can Do It.” Also helping readers stay positive this New Year is nutritionist Amy Doyle, who provides practical advice for resolution dieters on how to safely detox in our Healthy Woman article.

Another way I hope this January 2015 issue brings some color and joy into your life is by reminding you all of the season

that’s to come — wedding season. For the first time, we are featuring a Bridal Book in the January edition. This short but sweet section features photographer tips, showcases a hip new venue in Syracuse, provides practical advice on discussing finances before and after marriage, and gives you an update on what’s happening in the last few months before former SWM editor Farah Jadran’s spring wedding.

Lastly, I hope this month’s Syracuse Women Inspires will encourage women to break free of their comfort zones and try something a little different this year. Life coach Susan McCauley helps women in business who are making rapid changes in their relationships, career or life directions. Christi Smith strives to make both visitors and locals fall in love with Syracuse through unique tours as the assistant connection officer at NOexcuses. Botanic Her founder April Ward provides natural health consulting to women who want more than a fast-paced, impersonal visit at their doctor’s office.

As I look out my apartment window on this wintry day, I can’t help but be enamored by the delicate white flecks filling the air. John Coltrane’s genius lulls me while I sip on my steaming cup of tea, and I have to admit that I can’t complain. I appreciate the fact that this weather brings me pause and appreciation. I may even go for a run — and like it.

Stay warm,

Alyssa LaFaro

on our coverNatalie Gingerich Mackenzie was photographed by Cindy Bell of Focus Studio Inc. in the Westcott neighborhood in Syracuse. She’s wearing thermal tights with a reflective lining from Craft, a Coldgear 1/2 Zip top from Under Armour and New Balance 1400 shoes from Fleet Feet in Syracuse.

advertIse WIth us...unlike any other publication in the syracuse area, our fea-ture articles address major topics that interest local women.

Each issue includes articles on health, fashion, fitness, finance, home matters, dining, lifestyle and personal per-spectives, as well as a spotlight on local syracuse women.

ads are due on the 15th of the month prior to publica-tion. the print magazines will be distributed locally in over 350 locations and will be in your inbox electroni-cally by the middle of every month. the publication is available free of charge.

contact our home office 315.434.88892501 james street, suite 100syracuse, ny 13206info@syracusewomanmag.com

download our media kit at www.syracusewomanmag.com

the magazine is published 12 times a year by syracuse Woman magazine, llc. and eagle publications, 2501 james street, suite 100, syracuse, ny 13206.

copyright © 2014 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.

unlike 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

our teamPublishersKelly breuerbarbara mcspadden

editor-in-Chiefbarbara mcspadden

editoralyssa lafaro

Creative direCtorKelly breuer

PhotograPhycindy bellgerard h. gaskinrick needlejussara potter Kathy stockbridge chris szulwach

Contributing Writers amber brenzacarrie luteranamy doyleKayla Isaacsfarah f. jadran Kailyn jennings alyssa lafarorebecca laughlinsamantha mccarthydava & rick needleamari d. pollard colette powers

advertising salesrenee moonanlinda jabbourplease contact renee moonan (315) 657-7690

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

movies

o&A

In a time long past, an evil is about to be unleashed that will reignite the war between the forces of the supernatural and humankind once more. Master Gregory (Jeff Bridges) is a knight who had imprisoned the malevolently pow-erful witch, Mother Malkin (Julianne Moore), centuries ago. But now she has escaped and is seeking vengeance. Summoning her followers, Mother Malkin is preparing to unleash her ter-rible wrath on an unsuspecting world.

Liam Neeson returns as ex-government operative Bryan Mills, whose life is shattered when he’s falsely accused of a murder that hits close to home. As he’s pursued by a savvy police inspec-tor, Mills employs his “particular set of skills” to track the real killer and exact his unique brand of justice.

taken 3 – Jan 9

Paddington tells the story of the comic misadventures of a young Peruvian bear who travels to the city in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone, he begins to realize that city life is not all he had imagined - until he meets the kindly Brown family who read the label around his neck that says “Please look after this bear. Thank you,” and offer him a temporary haven.

paddington – Jan 16

Juggling some angry Russians, the British Mi5, his impossibly leggy wife and an international terrorist, debonair art dealer and part time rogue Charlie Mortdecai must traverse the globe armed only with his good looks and special charm in a race to recover a stolen painting rumored to contain the code to a lost bank account filled with Nazi gold.

mortdecai – Jan 23

the seventh son – feb 6

swm celebrates four Years – Jan. 27 Get ready to celebrate at Syracuse Woman Magazine’s four-year anniversary party. We are partnering with one of our oldest supporters — Ophelia’s Place at Café at 407 in Liverpool — on January 27 from 4 to 7 p.m.

There is an entrance fee for the event — at least one toiletry (soap, shampoo, tampons, cleaning products, detergent, etc.), which will be donated to Operation Soap Dish. There will be lots of opportunities to win great prizes, too, including two gift baskets filled with more than $100 worth of gift certificates, local favorites and yummy treats, all the proceeds of which will be donated to Ophelia’s Place to celebrate our partnership and Café at 407’s recent five-year anniversary. Light appetizers will be served, and the café will be open for full meals, dessert and drinks.

Ophelia’s Place strives to “redefine beauty and health by empowering individuals, families, and communities impacted by eating disorders, disordered eating, and body dissatisfaction.” Café at 407 opened in 2009 to creatively fund and provide a space for Ophelia’s Place.

For more information, visit facebook.com/SyracuseWomanMagazine.

the fifth annual sled for red – feb. 7Gather your friends, family and coworkers for a day of competitive, family-fun sledding! ACR Health’s Cardboard Sledding Derby takes place Saturday, Feb. 7, at Four Seasons Golf and Ski Center in Fayetteville, beginning at 4 p.m. Watch the SU football game on the big screen in their roomy heated tent, as you sample unlimited food and drink for $10; just $5 for children 10 and under.

The Cardboard Sledding Derby begins at 5 p.m. To participate, each five-person team needs to raise a minimum of $250 and make a sled. Awards will be given for the fastest sled, slowest sled, highest fundraising team, best costume, most creative sled and loudest team. After the event, teams can go tubing until closing time for $12 — less than half price!

ACR Health is a not-for-profit, community-based organization providing a range of support services to individuals with chronic diseases — including HIV/AIDS, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, asthma, substance use disorders and serious mental illnesses — with the goal of positive health outcomes.

For more information or sled-building rules, visit acrhealth.org. To register for the event, email events@acrhealth.org or call 800-475-2430.

national wear red daY – feb. 6For one day, what you wear really does matter! Join the fight against women’s number one killer on National Wear Red Day, Friday, Feb. 6.

Hundreds of local businesses, schools and organizations will help support ongoing research and education about women and heart disease by going red. Wear red, sport a red dress pin, light up your home or business red, and join together with men and women across the country. It’s a simple, powerful way to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke.

Go Red For Women “celebrates the energy, passion and power we have as women to band together to wipe out heart disease and stroke.” It is nationally sponsored by Macy’s and locally sponsored by St. Joseph’s Hospital, Kinney Drugs Foundation, M&T Bank, Stickley, Audi & Co., and media sponsors CNY Central, 93Q, Syracuse Woman Magazine and Eagle Newspapers.

For information on how to Go Red, call the American Heart Association at 315-728-7540.

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a New Do for a New Youby amarI d. pollard I photos by chrIs szulWach Technically, the New Year means the earth has completed yet another journey around the sun, but to most, it means so much more than that. The New Year means a time for new growth, for new opportunities, for change — and it all starts with you!

Fashion-wise, reinventing yourself extends far beyond just clothing. This year, instead of repeating what you did last year by updating your wardrobe, step up your game and out of your comfort zone with a new hairdo, and a new face.

That’s what I did.

Syracuse Woman Magazine and I ventured over to J. Luxe Salon on Division Street in Syracuse to visit with hairstylist and makeup artist Jillain Salomone. There, she showed me how to apply the latest makeup and hair trends from New York Fashion Week to my own appearance for a fresh new look.

While Jillian was busy transforming me into a renewed version of myself, she told me all about the trends seen on the runway. Right now for makeup it’s all about color, so Jillian suggested trying “a nice bold red lip and for the eyes, something that is going to pop like jewel-toned greens, blues or purples.”

When it comes to creating a bold colorful look, it is always important to remember not to overload your face. That usually involves picking and choosing between the eyes and the lips for color. If you want to do a bold eye, go for a more natural lip. And if you want a bold lip, go for a more demure eye.

I loved both of the makeup styles that Jillian tried on me, but my personal favorite was when she outlined my eyes with green eyeliner and gave me a soft pink lip. When you look at a person, the first thing you tend to notice is either their smile or their eyes, and this makeup did a great job of

drawing attention to my eyes. I also liked the subdued lip because if you have voluptuous lips like me, a bold color can sometimes make them look a little overpowering. However, if a plump lip is what you’re going for, a bold shade of red is definitely the way to go.

As for hair, there is never a shortage of varying looks, but the same go-to looks that have been seen quite frequently for the past year still remain current today. Long hair with beachy waves, a middle part, sleek straight hair and braids are still popular hairstyles.

For my first look, Jillian gave me beach-worthy waves that are super easy to replicate. Just wrap sections of your hair around a curling iron or curling rod for a few seconds, tousle your hair a little with your hands and voilà: a hairstyle that looks effortless. Plus, the curls don’t take long to create — a wonderful attribute for professional women who have limited time to get ready in the morning.

If you have the kind of hair that doesn’t hold waves or curls, then try braiding it. There are so many different styles of braids that the possibilities are virtually endless. There’s the French braid, the crown braid, the side braid, the up-do braid — the list goes on and on. Jillian decided to “cornrow” the sides of my hair and gather the middle section into a loose, tucked French braid. She teased and raised the front of my hair into a little bump. I like to think of it as a modern twist on the faux hawk.

After my little makeover, I think it’s safe to say J. Luxe and Jillain did a tremendous job of transforming me. Every look was a new surprise, and I was never disappointed by the person looking back at me in the mirror. Although I looked different, I could still feel myself shining through. And I think that’s the most important thing about finding a new look for yourself in the New Year. No matter how you look on the outside, you’re still you — a beautiful, confident woman.

Check out @SyrWomanMag and @AmariPollard on Twitter to find more on fashion and what’s happening this month.

at jake hafner’s restaurant & tavernFeel At Home

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10 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

syracuseWomanmag.com :: january 2015 11

by Kayla Isaacs I photos by chrIs szulWach

When Tom Hafner and his wife Cris took over Jake Hafner’s Restaurant & Tavern, they wanted to entirely revamp the place and turn it into a projection of their own personalities.

After purchasing four barns and fieldstone, they gutted the structure and injected wood from the barns into the building, turning it into what it is now: a cozy, rustic restaurant that serves only fresh, quality food.

Hafner’s was founded as a farm in 1906 and became a restaurant in 1970. Ten years later, Tom and Cris took the reins from Tom’s brother and redesigned. Now, every other dining room booth has a hand-painted wall, with pictures like watermelon or corn, and decorations that Cris changes every season. Hanging metal embellishments, which Tom collects, surround the dining area, while the other half of the restaurant — the bar with booths and a community table, called and shaped like a “dog bone” after their dog Indy — has room for fun with a music and picture station and darts. The walls are dotted with more than 10 flat screen TVs, one of which is a 120-inch dropdown screen.

“You can come in black tie or blue jeans,” said Tom. Cris added: “Our goal is for anyone to feel comfortable no matter how they are dressed.” Part of that comfort includes the knowledge that customers can relax and eat whatever kind of meal they happen to be in the mood for. With a diverse menu, and new, daily specials, the options are plenty, from creative pasta dishes, to prime ribs, to steaks or signature salads.

“You can come in at dinner time and have a burger or a sandwich,” said Cris. “Or, you can come in at lunch time and have dinner. I think a lot of people want to go out to dinner, but they might not necessarily want to eat dinner — the reason we offer lunch or dinner all day.”

No matter the meal diners crave, freshness will always reach their plates. Though it costs more to always use such ingredients, Tom and Cris opt to pay for better quality. They get vegetables every day and have deliveries for things like seafood multiple times a week. They strive to keep the prices affordable. “It’s better to make a fast nickel than a slow dime,” said Tom, quoting his father. It’s the words that Tom lives by, and the philosophy of the restaurant.

Named after Cris’s father — and one of many menu items with a family name — is one of the most popular dishes, Rigatoni DeLucca, which contains rigatoni with a “special” vodka sauce. On weekends, the prime rib, prepared old-style with a Yorkshire pudding, is a favored dish as well. “On Sundays, we concentrate on home-style, like grandma used to make,” said Cris. “Chicken and biscuits, beef tips over noodles — all the cozy, comfort foods.”

Open seven days a week, this homey, inviting atmosphere and menu selection keeps customers regular. It’s the goal that Tom and Cris envisioned for Hafner’s, and with their strong involvement, they’ve been able to maintain it. “You have to be here and you have to have somebody here who gives a darn,” Tom said. “We’re an extremely busy restaurant and bar. But you have to make sure you work at it.”

Continuously redecorating, offering original specials and developing new initiatives keep Hafner’s updated and current. On Wednesdays, the restaurant offers a trivia night, and in the New Year, Sunday brunch will include local band performances.

“We like to make little changes here and there so the customers know we’re involved,” said Cris. “We’re comfortable, cozy, intimate, friendly, crazy.” It’s the Hafner identity, and the persona that keeps customers satisfied and constantly returning.

Their children, Jake and Mackenzie, have grown up in the business and are, now, slowly taking on more and more of the responsibilities. They are gradually incorporating their personalities and subtle changes, just like their parents have and just like their children will one day.

For more information on Jake Hafner’s Restaurant & Tavern, visit jakehafners.com.

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12 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

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anby amy doyle, nutrItIonIst, msacn

It’s inevitable — the unyielding onslaught of temptation that begins with the leftover Halloween candy and ends with the champagne toast at the ball drop, and leaves many of us in a self-proclaimed state of “yuck” when all the holiday glee has subsided. Not surprisingly, according to the University of Scranton’s Journal of Clinical Psychology, the number one New Year’s Resolution made by Americans in 2014 was to lose weight — often adding in the idea of kick-starting weight loss with some sort of detox or cleanse.

Although they have recently become a popular sensation in Hollywood, many weight loss detox regimens are not healthy or safe.

Detoxification is a natural process the body uses to keep harmful products out of the bloodstream. The GI tract and the liver do most of this work, and people with nutrient deficiencies, digestive ailments or a chronic illness will likewise have impaired detoxification. This makes it important to nutritionally support and, if necessary, repair these organs. Skipping this step can result in a detox causing more harm than good. So what makes a healthy and safe detox?

My detox mantra is this: A healthy detox is one centered on whole foods plentiful in fruits, vegetables and fiber. Here are my 10 guidelines.

1. A period of eliminating high allergen foods or foods that aggravate the GI tract is key. This includes gluten, dairy, processed soy, fast/junk food, nuts, artificial and natural sweeteners, and products made with refined (white) flour. Other liver-burdening foods that may be eliminated are meat, fish, poultry, eggs and most beans.

2. Consume antioxidant rich fresh fruits and vegetables of every color of the rainbow, ideally organic. Antioxidants deactivate free radicals — naturally occurring but harmful byproducts of detoxification, which, if not deactivated can travel unrestrained throughout the body, causing inflammation along with tissue and cellular damage.

3. Eat lots of garlic, onion and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. These foods contain thiols, nutrients vital for detoxification.

4. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine.

5. Water or juice fasts should only be undertaken a maximum of two consecutive days. Starvation-type or all-liquid diets are never healthy or safe. Persons with diabetes or hypoglycemia should not fast.

6. Assist the body with flushing out toxins stored in fat tissue with light exercise, use of a sauna and massage.

7. Drink a minimum of 64 ounces of water, lemon water and/or herbal tea each day.

8. Detoxification requires ample protein and several vitamins and minerals. Some include B vitamins, antioxidants, magnesium, zinc and probiotics. A nutritionist or other qualified health care provider can direct you to which high-quality supplements and herbs are right for you.

9. At the end of the detox, eliminated foods can be gradually reintroduced, one at a time, waiting three to four days between each food. Both the elimination and reintroduction are great times to discover your own physical and emotional relationship to food.

10. Detoxification is, above all, a period of rest and renewal. Schedule in regular rest, relaxation and joy. Get at least seven hours of sleep a night.

Finally, having your GI health and individual nutrient status assessed by a nutritionist can increase your success with a detox. Anyone taking prescription medications should seek the advice of a qualified health care provider, as a detox can alter the body’s metabolism of medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not detox.

The first few days of a detox you may feel increased fatigue, malaise and headaches. However, if you can stick with it, not only will you experience weight loss, but also better health, more energy, and perhaps a decision to make some permanent healthy lifestyle changes.

Amy Doyle is a nutritionist with a master’s degree in Applied Clinical Nutrition from the New York Chiropractic College. She has pending certification as a Certified Clinical Nutritionist and as a Certified Nutrition Specialist. She is married with two children. You can contact Amy at whitestonewellnesscny@gmail.com.

for a healthy detoX

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Photos courtesy of Rick Needle

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for a picture perfect Wedding

14 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

5 Secretsstory and photos by dava & rIcK needle

The simple truth is a wedding day can be unpredictable, and with five kids we know unpredictable. But having shot more than 1,000 weddings, we’ve learned a few secrets along the way to help make your day elegant and picture perfect. As wedding photographers, we are the only wedding vendor that spends the entire day at the wedding from start to finish, learning what successful weddings have in common. Our 16 years of experience have taught us that the foundation of an elegant, picture perfect wedding is built on just five simple secrets.

1.} Time is the key. If your wedding photographer isn’t the type that wears a watch, you may have a problem. Plan a little extra time into the day’s schedule to account for the unpredictable, the extra-long receiving line or the extra up-do in the hair and makeup process. The most fun weddings are successful simply because the bride and groom can relax and look natural. Candid artistic moments are easy for your photographer to capture if they are real and you just enjoy your day.

2.}Communication is vital with your photographer, not only the day of your wedding but in all the meetings leading up to your day. You have to share your vision and trust in the artistry of the photographer to capture this milestone. Creativity can be candid or planned, so don’t be afraid to play — some of our best portfolio images are spontaneous magic that happens just after the “set up” image.

3.} Pinterest and the Internet are great sources of inspiration, but you have to balance planned ideas with candid creativity. Trust the creativity of your photographer as an artist to reflect

your style and personality in your pictures. The last thing you want to do is waste time going down a checklist of pictures that you may have spent a year collecting from a stranger’s wedding day. Keep your day uniquely yours and focus on connecting with your friends and family.

4.} Elegance is an attitude that comes from confidence and personality. Don’t be afraid to open up and show love for your friends. Emotion is what every photographer is secretly trying to capture, so don’t hold back. Try to ignore the camera and just be comfortable with your family — everything else will fall into place naturally. Every wedding day is filled with elegant light; let your wedding photographer guide you to the best light, stunning backgrounds. Shooting advertising for magazines over the years has taught us that when the natural light here in Syracuse fades, it’s a perfect time take advantage of some creative sunset flash photography.

5.} Fun is the last secret that can’t be overlooked. The tempo of the day is orchestrated by the bride and groom. If you enjoy the journey of your day, your wedding guests will follow your lead and have fun right along with you. Roll with the unpredictability of your day because artistic, candid creativity is born out of spontaneity. As you’re planning out your day, don’t forget to set aside that extra time for fun.

Along with juggling five kids, Dava and Rick Needle run AlterImage Wedding Photography, Radiant Photobooth and Rick Needle Advertising Photography. For more than 16 years, AlterImage has grown exponentially due to their trademark same-day edit wedding slideshow. Averaging 60 weddings a year, AlterImage fine art wedding photography is one of the most sought after studios in Syracuse and CNY. Their #ElegantWithAttitude style can be found at alterimagestudio.com.

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for a picture perfect Wedding5 Secrets

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Something borrowed,something blue...

20 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

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by farah f. jadran I photos by rIcK needle

Former SWM editor shares her wedding plans In four short months, I will walk down the aisle and marry my best friend, Niko Tamurian. My fiancé and I are extremely excited that our wedding date also marks the two-year anniversary of our engagement. The date is already very meaningful to us and this is indeed the “big day” we have been waiting for!

There are too many wedding details to count, but there are a few that always stick out. In particular, my fiancé and I are looking forward to seeing our guests sit down for dinner. We have truly enjoyed figuring out what will be on our reception dinner menu. Who wouldn’t?

Thanks to the guidance of The Oncenter event-planning staff and the executive chef, Gerald “Jerry” Bolton, we have been in delightful company while navigating the world of dinner options. Realizing that our vision has changed since we first started planning has been one of the most fascinating parts about choosing our menu for the cocktail hour and for dinner. Along with Chef Jerry Bolton, Jody Harris — the director of convention services — has been equally pivotal in reassuring us that the cuisine will be elegant, but also universal. We want our guests to try some items with flavor and flare, but we also want the meal to be classic and comfortable.

Right now, our main focus has been to find a balance in the menu’s offerings. Aside from choosing the right Italian dish and another main entrée, we’re also very conscious of our guests with dietary restrictions. We know that providing both vegetarian and gluten-free options are important.

Another aspect of the plans that exhibits our vision is the room décor and tablescape concepts. We have also become very intrigued by the idea of alternatives to traditional wedding flowers. The tablescapes are definitely starting to take shape while we decide on the centerpieces. Also, we are looking at how we can balance our color scheme. Although beautiful, Niko and I realized that our wedding colors — fuchsia, buttercup, tangerine and gold — could become a distracting mess if they’re not tamed to an elegant degree. Our décor and many elements of the wedding are beginning to contain gold, which we have found to be quite chic.

Most of all, we have enjoyed every moment of our planning process because it has involved our family and friends, as well as many local trusted vendors. We are grateful for their expertise and their attention to detail for our wedding. The Oncenter, of course, plays a big part in our special day, and also, we have some good friends that happen to work in the wedding industry. We wanted to share a list of local businesses that we have chosen for our wedding: AlterImage Photography, Bliss Bridal & Formal Wear, Elisha Joy Jewelry Boutique, The Legendary Blacklites, DJ Rick Roberts, Teri Nichols (Mary Kay), Welch & Co. Jewelers and DivaLicious Desserts LLC.

Our big day is fast-approaching and we know that May 2, 2015, will be here faster than we can check things off our list. Niko and I are looking forward to our wedding day, but most of all, we are looking forward to every day that awaits us as a married couple. To us, life and love is a journey — this is indeed a marathon, not a sprint.

Bride-to-be Farah F. Jadran is the former editor of Syracuse Woman Magazine. Follow her wedding plans and other delightful happenings on Twitter, Instagram, Vine and Pinterest — @FarahJadran. You can also read Farah’s blog: farfarawaybyfarah.blogspot.com.

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C A T E R I N GNow Booking Weddings,Rehersal Dinners & Showers

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by alyssa lafaro I photo by jussara potter

Walton Street awaits you as you peer out of the front glass enclosure on the second floor of the SKY Armory in Syracuse. Having Walton Street literally at your feet is exactly what owner Nicole Samolis wants. “SKY Armory puts brides in an urban core,” she told me in a recent interview. “Right outside the door are hotels, restaurants, shopping, the night life scene. It makes the wedding weekend easy for guests — just park your car and now you’re done.”

The idea for an urban venue in the middle of Armory Square has been on Nicole and her husband Kevin’s docket for about five years, with a lot of that time spent visiting other inner-city venues across Central New York and the country. “We visited cities that have really cool, unique, off-premise spaces with repurposed lofts and things like that. Syracuse certainly was lacking that type of venue. The other challenge with Syracuse is it doesn’t have a lot of big venues. If you’re above that 225 number, your options are very limited. We really wanted to help fill that market.”

In March 2013, she purchased the Betts Building on Salina Street, which was formerly home to the Wells & Coverly men’s clothing store. Today, the second and third floors have been transformed into two urban chic ballrooms — “Coverly on 2” and “Wells on 3” — that can host as many as 900 people when used together, or 400 apiece when used separately. The large capacity is essential for the bridal market, which will make up approximately 50 percent of SKY’s business, said Nicole. The second phase of construction will make cosmetic changes to a smaller ballroom on the first floor called “The Betts,” to be completed in 2015. This room will be used for small ceremonies and cocktail parties with fewer than 100 people.

Aside from the ability for brides, grooms and their guests to attend after parties at local establishments, like Al’s Whine & Whiskey Lounge or Small Plates, or kill downtime by visiting nearby boutiques and eateries, the SKY Armory also offers an all-you-need-in-one-place experience. “You don’t just rent the space and come back two weeks later and tell us what you’re doing,” explained Nicole. “We have planners who work with you on planning your event. We actually design. We do the centerpieces. We offer more than 40 different colors for linens. And then we have food and beverage.”

All the food at SKY Armory is cooked in-house by Executive Chef Jason Jessmore and his staff. The establishment even has its own pastry chef to provide wedding cakes, pastries and bread. “Everything is homemade and fresh — and customizable. We like to sit down with clients and ask them what flavor profiles they’d like at their wedding. What kind of experiences they want their guests to have. And our chef creates a custom menu for them. We do the same thing with our bar. We build what wines and beers the couple wants on the bar.”

And that’s the goal — endless possibilities. “Each time somebody comes to an event at SKY,” said Nicole, “they are going to get a completely different experience, even if they’ve been here three times that week. Each time it’s going to look and feel and taste different.”

To book your event, email amypreble@skyarmory.com or call 315-473-0826. For more information or to follow updates at the SKY Armory, visit skyarmory.com, facebook.com/SKYArmory or follow @SKYArmory on Twitter.

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Marriage is a partnership, and its success, much like that of any other partnership, hinges on factors like openness, trust, respect and honesty. So, the both of you need to be well-informed and in agreement about all critical aspects of your marriage, especially finances. Here are a few ideas to help you and your soon-to-be spouse plan for your financial life together.

have the “money talK” Finances can be a difficult topic of conversation, and it can be tough to find the right time and place to talk. Just as couples may schedule special time together for dinners, or joint hobbies, some find it helpful to schedule regular conversations dedicated to money matters. It may not be the most anticipated time together, but being open about your finances can help to establish sound money practices for your marriage, minimize financial conflict, and bring you closer to achieving your joint, long-term goals. Consider the following tips.

communIcate often Many problems, especially those related to money, stem from a lack of knowledge. It is important that both of you know where you stand financially, have common goals and agree how to achieve them.

be honest about fInancIal habIts It is not uncommon for financial opposites to attract, and couples often find that they have mismatched money styles — one may be a spender, while the other is a saver. This could lead to tension, but instead of trying to change one another, come together to define joint financial values and habits.

handle debt as a couple Make a plan to pay off any existing debt that you may bring into the marriage. Taking the stance that your soon-to-be spouse’s debt is something for them to handle on their own can negatively impact your relationship and may limit the ability to save for joint financial goals, such as your wedding.

seeK assIstance If the topic of finances, bills, debt or savings makes either of you uncomfortable or defensive, seek the assistance of a qualified financial professional or counselor to help guide productive conversations or enroll in a financial planning class.

money and marrIage — What to do after the bIg dayMoney and marriage are age-old topics of conversation that can sometimes be the subject of tension, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Many of the exercises that you completed when planning for your wedding —from outlining priorities to setting spending limits—are the same exercises that you should repeat to help lay the groundwork for a successful and happy financial life.

establIsh fInancIal goals It is important to be on the same page when it comes to money. Just as you outlined what was important to each of you when you were planning your wedding, openly discuss your financial objectives and what you both want to accomplish.

create a budget Outline a monthly budget to help satisfy your living expenses and other financial goals. Strive to build an emergency fund that would cover three to six months of expenses.

develop a savIngs planThere is no better time than now to begin building wealth for your future together. As you develop your monthly budget, allocate a portion of your income to savings or investments. Regularly putting money aside will help you to satisfy your short- and long-term financial goals.

recognIze IndIvIdual fInancIal savvyInstead of defaulting to more traditional financial roles, recognize each other’s strengths and divide the financial tasks accordingly.

don’t go It aloneGetting married is a big step and a big change. It means sharing your home, dreams, life and financial responsibilities. Including a financial professional in your pre- and post-wedding preparations can help you to establish joint financial priorities, get on the same page with money matters and ensure that your financial plan aligns with your new life as a couple.Colette Powers is a Financial Advisor with UBS Financial Services Inc. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The author(s) are neither employees of nor affiliated with UBS Financial Services. The information provided may be deemed reliable; however, their accuracy and completeness is not guaranteed by UBS Financial Services Inc. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of UBS Financial Services Inc. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. These services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on the distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak with your Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus.

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by alyssa laFaro I photos by cIndy bell “Running has been so much more than just running to me,” Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie told me. “It’s become who I am in a weird way, and not because I actually set out for it. Just in the way that life happens.”

Perhaps, you’ve seen Natalie running in the Westcott area. You can’t miss her bright blond ponytail, or the fact that she’s probably pushing a jogging stroller holding her son Henry, who is equally towheaded. She can also be found at an array of local races — and near the front of the pack. The now 33-year-old won the Wilbur Duck mile in Oneida for the past three years, including when she was pregnant with Henry in 2012; placed third in the 10-mile Mountain Goat Run this past April; and came in first at the USATF Niagara Association 10K Championship last spring.

Natalie has been running since fourth grade, when she placed first for the 100-yard dash during her school’s “Track and Field Day.” She became a long-distance runner, and ran cross country and the 200-, 400- and 800-meter races for track in high school. After placing in the state meet in Ohio, where she grew up, colleges began to recruit her. She attended Cornell University and ran all four years, competing in the 400-, 500-, 800- and 1,000-meter races, eventually breaking the 1,000-meter track record her senior year.

One love of her life led her to another — her husband Sam. They ran on Cornell’s track team together, and started dating in 2003. Eventually, running guided Natalie into a career. She knew she wanted to be a writer, but didn’t take the traditional career path many writers take. She didn’t have experience writing for a high school or college newspaper, and she didn’t have a blog — but she had running.

runnIng becomes opportunIty Running became more than a sport for Natalie when she scored an internship at Rodale between her junior and senior year of college. “Being a college runner gave me a lot of street cred,” she laughed. “You have to become a runner to write for magazines like Runner’s World. You have to walk the walk to work there.”

In a completely different way, running also led her to an internship with Parenting magazine in January 2005. “The sister of my assistant running coach at Cornell worked for Parenting magazine. When I went to New York to attend a conference with Runner’s World, I got coffee with her and she became somewhat of a mentor. Later, when I moved to NYC after graduating, she hired me as an intern.”

Upon finishing her internship, she applied for a job at SELF to be the assistant to the editor-in-chief and was called in for an interview. She was, however, quickly redirected to the magazine’s fitness department. “They wanted me to apply for the assistant position in the fitness department. I think running and my internship at Runner’s World gave me a lot of credibility as a fitness writer. I didn’t set out to be a fitness/sports writer — it just happened organically.”

Since then, Natalie moved back to Syracuse, where her husband is poised to graduate from Upstate Medical University with an MD-PhD this spring. As a freelance writer, she’s written for a number of outlets including Prevention, Women’s Health, Fitness and ESPNW.com. In 2011, she wrote a book called, “Tone Every Inch,” which discussed the effects of combining resistance bands and heavy weights on non-exercising women in their 40s — a program she worked with nearby researchers at Ithaca College to develop and study.

runnIng WhIle pregnantFor someone who’s defined so much of her life with running, becoming pregnant with her son meant a new chapter. She was pleased to recently read about professional runner Alysia Montano, who ran the 800-meter race at the U.S. Track and Field Championships while eight-and-a-half months pregnant. Although she came in last place, the media quickly put her in the “extreme pregnancy fitness” category and the Internet jumped to judge whether she was inspiring — or crazy. In truth, experts including Alysia’s doctor agree that if Alysia was running that much before she was pregnant, then it was certainly safe for her to run while pregnant as long as she felt good doing it.

Natalie herself competed in three mile races in her first trimester, and continued to run throughout the rest of her pregnancy. In fact, she explained that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recently revised their recommendation for activity when pregnant. “The advice used to be that it was safe to continue anything you did before you were pregnant, but that you shouldn’t start a new routine,” she said. “Today, as we see how important exercise is — including during pregnancy — ACOG recommends that even non-exercisers start doing something — like walking or prenatal exercise classes, and work up to 30 minutes a day.” The message: Even if you weren’t active before, you can start being active now.

“Doctors have realized it’s so important that women be active while pregnant — and that it doesn’t matter if they weren’t already

Natalie Gingerich Mackenzierunning through college, jobs, pregnancy and beyond

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active,” said Natalie, who advised pregnant women should start exercising slowly. “Don’t go from doing nothing to being a runner. But you can and should do something like walking. Excess weight is a really big problem that can have lifelong effects. That’s not to say that someone who is overweight can’t have a perfectly healthy baby that grows up to be a perfectly healthy adult, but we are learning more and more about the long-term consequences both from mom and baby of not exercising or gaining too much weight when pregnant.”

Once her son Henry, now 2, was born, she continued to run and lost the baby weight. Starting when Henry was about 4 months old, she’d put him in the jogging stroller and go out for a run. It continues to be a pastime and bonding experience for them. “Henry loves it,” said Natalie, “and I think being in a jogging stroller is healthy. I think it’s stimulating for the brain. He sees scenery; it teaches him patience. I’m all about expanding his attention span. Maybe it will give him the attention span for running later in life.”

advice for the neW year“For me, running is nonnegotiable,” explained Natalie. “It’s a thing I do for myself. I don’t always want to do it. I do it because it’s part of my day that I expect myself to do. I enjoy it, especially this time of year. Most people would consider me crazy in saying this, but on a beautiful winter day when it snows, it can be really awesome.”

Since Natalie has spent years writing about fitness and running — and with her new credibility as a mom — I asked her to offer up some advice for staying active in the harsh CNY winter, must-haves for moms who want to stay fit and tips for raising active children. Here’s what she shared with me.

hoW to stay active in the cny Winter Snowshoeing and cross country skiing“It’s all about getting out and enjoying the snow rather than just cursing it as you shovel your drive! Snowshoes make ‘dealing with’ deep snow fun, and unlike cross country skis (which are great, too), they don’t require any trail grooming or set up. You just go out and run/walk through the snow. I like to do laps of Barry Park with them. Cross country skiing is better when you have groomed trails, like at Highland Forest.”

Running and walking “I run all year long. Part of it is just accepting it and dressing for it. When it snows and the roads aren’t plowed, I swear by these things called Yaktrax. Essentially, it’s a rubber piece coiled with metal wire that stretches over the bottom of your shoe. They’re a game changer for walking or running in the snow and on icy sidewalks. It goes from feeling like running in sand to feeling like running on a dry road. Making sure you’re visible is also a must. I throw a cheap reflective vest on top of whatever I’m wearing.”

The Post Standard’s Annual Treasure Hunt“It’s not a workout in itself, but a great way to get outside and walk around in the winter. Each February, The Post Standard hides a little poker chip-sized medallion somewhere in Onondaga County. Every day they post a clue, and people go look for it. It’s so much fun. There’s a $1,000 prize for the winner; you get $2,000 if you’re a home-delivered subscriber. It lasts for about a week, or until someone finds it.”

Destiny USA and Skyzone“Being active isn’t just about exercising. Just getting up and moving is huge. Try to find places that allow you to be active indoors. Destiny USA has Dave & Buster’s, where you can play basketball and skeeball, and Wonder Works has Canyon Climb, an indoor ropes course. Skyzone is the new trampoline park right off of Erie Boulevard — I’m planning to take Henry this winter.”

must-haves for moms Who Want to stay fitNo “mommy guilt”“I firmly believe that taking the time to run and exercise makes me a better mom, and from the six-week point, when I got cleared by my doctor to exercise through now, I’ve made it a point to give myself that time. Sure, there are more logistics involved — either use the jogging stroller or make sure someone else is watching Henry. And when he was still nursing, there was planning around that. But like anything, if you make something a priority, it fits.”

A good jogging stroller “This was probably our most expensive baby purchase, and it’s paid for itself time and time again. Henry is growing up to be a little personal trainer since he loves to go running in the stroller. He literally wakes up and the first thing out of his mouth at 6 a.m. is ‘Run! Run!’ Even if you’re not a runner — and not everybody

is — jogging strollers are great for family walks. There are also ‘mommy and me’ fitness classes with the stroller. The YMCA has ‘Stroller Fit,’ and there are also ‘baby boot camp’ classes in the area.”

Gym-based childcare“This gets back to the mommy guilt thing again — as a working mom, dropping my son off at a daycare on a Saturday can seem backwards. But I approach it another way: If my husband and I go to a cycling class for an hour while he plays in the childcare center, then we all go swim together for an hour, it makes it a special family outing. We also love to go on Friday nights when they have ‘Friday Family Fun Night’ with all kinds of mats and balls and scooters for kids to play on. Sam and I do a quick workout, then play with Henry.”

A full roster of workout partners“This isn’t really specific to being a mom, but it matters nonetheless. In fact, I would say it’s my number-one factor in sticking with it. I’m a very social exerciser. Case in point: I agreed to go run with a friend in the pouring rain the other day, instead of going to the YMCA!”

A supportive spouse or partner“I feel incredibly lucky to have married a running partner for life. We don’t always get to run together, and less now with a toddler. But he will always respect my need to get out and do something, just as I will his. He knows I’m in a better mood when I exercise! It’s just part of our family balance.”

A sports bra that fits“Pregnancy and nursing definitely did a number on my body, and a good sports bra took on new importance! I became so obsessed with Moving Comfort’s sports bras (specifically the “Juno”) that I bought three (and let me tell you, they aren’t cheap!). They are super-supportive while still ‘looking’ like a sports bra, which I like. But the bonus feature is that they operate like a nursing bra with Velcro straps that can be taken down to feed baby, or pump, or whatever. I’m not nursing anymore, but I’m still wearing them.”

A comfortable baby carrier “These days, my son likes to walk himself, but especially during the first year-and-a-half we always used the carrier when going places or just walking around the neighborhood. There are a bunch of different kinds, and it’s really about what works for you. I started out using a stretchy Boba wrap, and when he got bigger, I added a more structured Boba brand carrier that goes on front or back. There’s actually a CNY Babywearing Association group that meets at Chicks and Hens (formerly Basic Baby), and for $30 a year you can borrow wraps from their library. A great way try things before you plunk down $100-plus on one — and you can get help figuring it all out from some very knowledgeable women!”

tips for raising active children Control screen time“Screen time can be a huge barrier to physical activity and research supports that. Studies show when kids watch more TV they are less active. At this point, Henry uses almost no screens, and it will be very minimal after he turns 2.”

Normalize exercise and make it fun “Kids are kids and should be able to be outside and run around. That’s a way to be active as a parent, too — by doing it with them. Go to the parks in the winter. Go to the malls where they have indoor play areas and normalize it as much as you can, as early as you can.”

Encourage kids to play sports without stealing the fun from it“This is a really important balance to strike as a parent. There was an article I read a while back that explained how parents shouldn’t talk about the game and analyze it. They should keep it as simple as, ‘I love to watch you play.’ The article said to avoid saying, ‘You did a great job scoring those points,’ and encourage by saying things like, ‘I enjoy being here and supporting you.’ It sounds a little cheesy, but I definitely took that to heart!”

Be an active parent in a positive way“As a parent, do what it takes to find something you actually enjoy doing. Maybe that’s running and maybe that’s walking. Maybe it’s playing tennis or hiking. Maybe it’s doing it alone or doing it with friends. Show your kids not just that you’re doing it, but that you like doing it. For example, do a local 5K and get your kids to come out and cheer for you — that makes it fun for everyone. It’s do as I do, not just do as I say. That goes a long way in all things with kids.”

Get a dog. “I am a total advocate of getting a dog to be active. There are studies that show people who do have dogs get more exercise than people who don’t. But of course a dog is a real commitment, and not just like some workout gadget that you can leave in the corner to collect dust if you decide it doesn’t work for you. If you can’t have a dog or don’t have a dog, there are places where you can go walk, run or play with shelter dogs. Both Helping Hounds Dog Rescue and the CNY SPCA have programs that allow visitors to walk or run with dogs.”

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34 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

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An Interview with

miss syracuse 2015by alyssa lafaro i photos by Kathy stocKbridge

Syracuse Woman Magazine: What drew you to pageants? Anneliese Trust: I love performing. I wanted to experience being on stage and performing a talent — and also being able to help my community. The Miss America Organization is the one pageant system that really provides all of that for title holders. What really got me started was my father, who told me to find something that I love to do that helps others. That’s what it allows me to do, especially when it comes to promoting my platform.

SWM: Tell me about your platform, the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.AT: I love it because I think everyone needs a mentor while growing up. I always looked up to my father as a mentor. He’s the one that really pushed me to further my education and do well in school, but also to be well-rounded. Big Brothers Big Sisters provides positive mentoring relationships to kids across America. I want to encourage adults to get involved in the organization. It really doesn’t take a lot of time and you really do build a lot of relationships that are life-changing. When it comes to younger children, because they obviously can’t be mentors in the organization, I want them to know what a role model is; what qualities they should look for in a role model; and how they can be a role model to their peers.

SWM: What’s your favorite part about the competition portion of pageants?AT: The talent competition because I’ve been a dancer my whole life. It’s one minute and 30 seconds of throwing in as much as you can to wow people. It’s been a challenge because I do have two hip injuries right now, but I still love getting on stage and performing. I feel at home when I’m dancing.

SWM: What is your least favorite part?AT: The on-stage question. It always has been and it always will be. You never know what to prepare for. You could get asked, “What do you hope to change about the world,” or something really specific about politics.

SWM: Miss Syracuse has to represent the Syracuse area well. I want to know some of your Syracuse favorites.

favorite restaurant?AT: King David’s, Tully’s — I love their chicken tenders — and Dinosaur BBQ. I waited two hours to get a table at Dinosaur on Saturday night. That’s dedication.

favorite clothing boutique? AT: Boom Babies because I love their jewelry. My earrings for the evening gown competition are from there. I also like Jet Black in Armory Square.

favorite place to exercise? at: I go rollerblading at Onondaga Lake Park. I also work out with Tia Falcone, the trainer that worked with Nina Davuluri.

SWM: What do you hope to achieve as Miss Syracuse? AT: I want to genuinely make a difference in my community. I want to get into as many schools as possible and talk to as many kids as possible to spread the message about what a good role model is. Miss Syracuse is Anneliese’s second title; she won the 2014 Miss Flower City competition, a title that represents the Rochester area. To learn more about Anneliese and follow her efforts, visit facebook.com/MissSyracuse2015.

This past November, I had the pleasure to sit in one of the judges’ seats at the Miss Syracuse Triple Crown Competition. Fourteen girls came to Syracuse from all over the state to vie for three different titles — Miss Syracuse, Miss Salt City and Miss Erie Canal. The winner of the Miss Syracuse 2015 title, Anneliese Trust, wooed us all with her endearing personality, Bob Fosse-inspired jazz dance and stellar on-stage confidence during both the swimsuit and eveningwear competition.

Anneliese spoke with me after the competition to discuss how she got involved in pageantry, some of her Syracuse favorites and what she hopes to achieve this year. Here’s what she shared.

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by carrie luteran

Flipping the calendar to a new year can be great inspiration to tackle new projects, but with spring still months away and a home that looks bare after removing the holiday decorations you might have a hard time getting motivated. Here are some simple ways to inject life into your interiors and boost your mood while the snow flies outside.

Warm up your color paletteRooms decorated in neutrals or blues are very popular, but can seem cold and uninviting in the winter. If you have a similar color scheme, try adding warm shades like red, orange or yellow, which are stimulating and provide a boost of energy. Distribute one of these accent colors throughout a room with artwork, accessories and a bouquet of fresh flowers.

bring in lightSyracuse is not known for having many days of sunshine, and that, combined with the shorter days of winter, can take a toll on your emotional wellbeing. Most of us have under-lit rooms, and this can contribute to a dreary mood. A good rule of thumb for calculating how much total wattage is needed to light a room is: square footage times 1.5. Include furnishings with metallic, glass or mirrored finishes to help bounce light around your space and bring back the sparkle that is missing after holiday decorations come down.

accessorizeA bold piece of art or area rug can provide a big punch of color and pattern to a space. Shop other rooms of your house (or maybe all that stuff hiding in your basement) to create a new look without spending any money. Displaying collections, photos and memorabilia that reflect your interests and life history will make your home personalized and provide an emotional boost every time you look at them.

add textureInfusing texture into a room can bring a lot of visual interest, as well as make it feel warm and comforting. Try including a soft rug on the floor, woven or faux fur pillows on the sofa, and a chunky throw for a cozy and inviting space.

Incorporate natural objects and materials like greenery, twigs, seashells, cork and wood for a daily reminder that spring is on the way.

declutterLiving with unaddressed piles of stuff around your home every day can be mentally draining. Set aside a few minutes each evening to return items to their proper homes, and take advantage of time stuck indoors to address bigger projects, like that overflowing closet or spare room full of junk. Schedule a date in your calendar and honor it as you would any other appointment. You will feel lighter and more motivated to take on those New Year’s resolutions, guaranteed!

you can do it

::yo

u c

an

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Designer Tips for common DecoraTing Dilemmas

•artwork a pain in the neck? hang everything at eye level so that the center of each piece is 60 inches up from the floor.•confused about area rugs? purchase one large enough to allow at least the front feet of all furniture to sit on it.•small windows or low ceilings? purchase curtain rods that are wider than the window; hang them close to the ceiling; and then add curtains long enough to touch the floor.•shouting to be heard? arrange conversation areas to be no larger than nine feet in diameter, moving furniture away from walls if necessary.•Open floor plan a little too open? Float a sofa or pair of chairs in the middle of your space to define the seating area, and use a narrow table (with accessories!) to disguise the back of the furniture.Carrie Luteran, MA, Allied ASID, makes spaces totally functional and fab. She offers a fresh, modern approach to interior design and professional organizing through her company, Pretty Neat. Connect at prettyneatsolutions.com or 315-400-1966.

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38 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

::fitn

ess by rebecca laughlin

I battled obesity for approximately 15 years. There were times where I was classified as “overweight,” but it was always a back and forth. I was bullied for my weight, couldn’t fit into the latest fashion trends and was the “fat friend.” I tried every fad diet, but nothing stuck. I reverted to old behaviors and didn’t focus on developing a long-term plan.

If you know me now you wouldn’t know that this was my demon. Fitness and nutrition are a huge part of my life, my work and who I am today. I have been

able to maintain a healthy weight with nutrition and exercise.

With the New Year approaching, one of the more popular resolutions is weight loss. Unfortunately, more than half of those who make that resolution, statistically, will fail. There are

a number of reasons why, but it usually boils down to a couple, like the following.

Goals are often unrealistic. Trying to lose 50 pounds in

90 days is quite farfetched. Giving up food that tastes

good and attempting exercise for two hours every day is illogical, unsafe and a setup

for disaster.

Going cold turkey. We live in the real world. This is not “The Biggest Loser,” where we eliminate temptation, work and family, and can exercise all day with coaches by our side. We have to manage our time to fit everything in.

The key to success is finding balance. I am going to share, from years of trial and error and lots of research, some of the vital components.

1.] This is more than “short term.” You have to be committed to putting in effort and making a change in your lifestyle forever. If you make the goal “being skinny” or “wearing a bikini on vacation” or “looking good in a wedding dress,” then what do you have to work for when that event is over? Change your mindset. What about getting healthy for life? Make healthy diet and exercise a part of your life to “stop diabetes in your family,” “set a good example for your children,” “get off blood pressure medications.” Think bigger.

2.] Think about how long it took you to get where you are today. If you were happy with your weight three years ago, then you have to give yourself three years to get back there. You did not gain 50, 70, 100 pounds in a month, so to have the expectation that within a month you will lose that weight is unrealistic — and unhealthy. A goal of 0.5 to 1.5 pounds per week is a good number to strive for.

3.] Find something you love and go with it. This goes for your nutrition plan and exercise regimen. For nutrition, you have to pick something that you can live with forever. If you love carbs, Atkins isn’t going to work. There are plenty of fad diets, but these, typically, are short-term and cannot be sustained. There are diets that can be sustainable, including Paleo, Weight Watchers and IIFYM (If It Fits Your Macros). But you have to see what works with your lifestyle, your

habits and what you can adapt to, to maintain an invigorating life.

With exercise there are even more options. If you hate running — don’t run. Get out there; try something new. Something that scares the heck out of you. You may be surprised how much you fall in love with it. Whether it’s Zumba, powerlifting, step aerobics, yoga, CrossFit, pole fitness or bodybuilding, find something you love and be the best at it you can possibly be.

Some women avoid weight training for the fear of looking “manly” or “gaining too much muscle.” I can assure you that, if you start lifting weights, which I highly recommend, you will not look manly. You will, however, notice your body changing in ways you never thought possible. It can be intimidating to start 30 minutes a day of activity, five days per week. Start with a shorter workout and gradually

increase over time until you meet or exceed your goal.

Make 2015 the year of you. Make you a priority. That’s not selfish. You deserve to be healthy and be the best you can be in every aspect of your life. I am not telling you it is going to be easy. But I can assure you it will be worth it!

Rebecca Laughlin is a nurse practitioner at Preventive Medicine Associates and DeRoberts Plastic Surgery. She has a passion for all things local and living a sustainable and healthy lifestyle.

[The Year of You]How to make long-term nutrition and fitness goals to be the best you, you can be

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syracuseWomanmag.com :: january 2015 41

syracuse WomenInspirechristi smithAssistant Connections Officer at NOexcuses

by amari d. pollard i photo by jussara potter Many people go through that phase in life when they have lost faith in their current hometown. Suddenly there’s nothing to do because they’ve seen and experienced all the city has to offer. The uniqueness and the familiarity that made them fall in love with the city has been forgotten.

Luckily for Syracuse, there are companies like NOexcuses and people like Assistant Connections Officer Christi Smith, who are determined to make sure that no one falls out of love with Syracuse. “Our mission is to basically educate and help make people aware so there is no excuse not to know what is going on in Syracuse,” said Christi. “There is no excuse to leave; there is no excuse that you wouldn’t want to stay here.”

NOexcuses offers custom tours of the greater Syracuse area as a way to provide locals and visitors with fun experiences that will expose them to a new side of the city.

Originally from Rochester, Christi moved here in August 2007 with American Signature Incorporated to open up two stores. At the time, she found it was hard to make friends and get comfortable with Syracuse because so much of her time was dedicated to hiring and training people while setting up the new locations. She felt like she wasn’t getting anything good out of living in Syracuse — it was just boring.

It wasn’t until Christi started working at Al’s Wine and Whiskey Lounge that she started to really make connections with people and see how much Syracuse has to offer. Eventually, she became the one who was suggesting places and events to visit to other people. Christi would even take time during her breaks to personally show people places downtown; it was as if she was giving mini tours.

“My friends would always tease me that if I could find a way to make a living talking to people, then I would make a million dollars,” said Christi. So, when she saw a post by Michael John Heagerty, the chief connection officer and founder of NOexcuses, on social media about his idea to start a company that does tours or shares information about events that are going on in Syracuse, she couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

“So now, here we are. We are an incorporated business, and we are doing all kinds of fun and great things,” said Christi. “It would just make me sad if people didn’t realize what is here, and how much history, and how great the people are.”

Christie said, in a way, NOexcuses has become her passion. She loves getting the opportunity to teach people about the history and architecture of Syracuse, while hearing their personal stories as well. “I love to help people have fun, share this city that I love, and help them see it in a different way. Everyone has such a dreary take, like ‘Uh, Syracuse,’ but there is so much here,” said Christi.

Although Christi has conducted some tours, her main job as the ACO of NOexcuses is handling more of the financial side of the business, the planning and connecting to potential sites. In addition to working for (continued on page 44)

42 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

by Kailyn jennings i photo by gerard h. gasKin

For 13 years, April Ward, MSN, has been an advanced practice nurse and licensed midwife. Before that, she worked in a public health department, private doctor’s office and for several not-for-profit organizations. She is also an avid herbalist.

April felt called to be a nurse early on. “Nursing is really about humanity,” she said. “We see the whole person in front of us. I love being able to teach and support women during major life transitions.”

While working at a hospital clinic, she experienced a menopause patient who was upset due to hot flashes, sweating and insomnia. Her prescription antidepressant did not work, and she wasn’t a candidate for hormone replacement. April explained alternative therapies, but felt she couldn’t spend enough time with her. The patient left discouraged.

“An instant oil change takes longer than a typical women’s health visit, and I know the guys who work on my car better than I know my primary care provider,” she said. “Women are frustrated with the lack of time and attention we’re getting in the current healthcare system, but the financial realities of healthcare delivery and reimbursement have eroded relationships between providers and patients.”

She dreamed of opening a consulting practice so she could work one-on-one with women in a relaxed environment. In the spring of 2014, April opened Botanic Her, a women’s health practice focusing on natural strategies and hormone health and balance.

“My favorite thing about Botanic Her is meeting exceptional women. It gives me the freedom to be real and authentic with my clients. My work energizes me,” she added. “What has surprised me the most is the interest I’ve received from men who want their wives or partners to feel better and from mothers who are seeking natural alternatives for their daughters.”

Her care philosophy is that women deserve the time to sit down and tell their story. And she gives them that. “There are no quotas, no time constraints and no pagers going off. Health professionals need the time to form real partnerships with their patients in order to inspire healthy change,” she said.

April introduces natural care plans to her patients. “Many chronic health problems today stem from unhealthy lifestyle,” she explained. “Nutrition is the foundation of health.” She uses herbs as an extension of diet. If a woman is willing to implement simple dietary changes, the addition of herbs can be beneficial. However, if she is unwilling to work on her diet, herbs and medications can only provide so much assistance.

“My favorite herbs nudge the body toward balance,” she said. “Herbs perform well at helping us adapt to stress. They can also help to normalize our hormonal balance. Women’s hormones are a complex symphony; botanicals can serve as a good conductor.”

April believes that our current lifestyles and health management are unsustainable and that we must become more responsible for our health. “That means nurturing our bodies, minds and spirits,” she explained. “If we don’t, illness moves in.”

(continued on page 44)

“I love being able to teach and support women during major life transitions.”

april Wardfounder of botanic her::s

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syracuseWomanmag.com :: january 2015 43

by samantha mccarthy i photo by gerard h. gasKin

“I’ve always asked the big questions — even as a young child — always questioning and exploring with a sense of wonder,” said Susan McCauley. A certified professional coach, she is the founder of Success Ignited, an international business reaching out to clients in the United States and other countries.

Being a life coach was not the first path Susan followed, however. She wanted to be an artist when she was in high school, but earned her degree in business management as an undergraduate. After that, Susan opened her own upscale invitation studio and printing business. Then, she worked for U.S. Airways, a decision made from memories of traveling to Greece with her Greek grandmother when she was 12.

Spending a summer in Greece was an experience Susan will never forget. “That opened up a whole new world for me and during that adventure I set the intention that I would explore many other cultures across the globe,” she shared. When she was 12, Susan was very curious and wanted to travel the world, which influenced her to later take the job at U.S. Airways. She also worked for Norwegian Cruise line. When she became ill, however, all her traveling ambitions came to a halt.

“The illness affected my neurological system, and I was no longer able to process things in my mind the way I used to. My rational mind was not functioning, but my intuition was intact,” said Susan. She considers herself lucky to recover, but this experience was life changing. She began to redefine success in her life, and today, considers her illness a gift.

After following various career paths, Susan can relate very well to her clients. In her life coach business, she specializes in helping women in business making rapid changes in their relationships, career or life direction. “I love supporting these incredible women to ignite their inner spark and fall in love with their life again,” she said. Helping women get back on track to follow their dreams and stop “going through life on auto-pilot” are two things Susan has assisted many women with so far as a life coach.

“I began to understand my path ahead was to help other women through their discovery of what a successful life would be on their terms. Not the definition imposed by someone’s society, community, family, culture, job, etc.,” said Susan.

While ringing in the New Year, Susan suggests creating a “New Year’s intention and a vision board.” First, creating the intention will be a great way to start the New Year on a good note. The vision board is a “presentation of that intention that works on a subconscious level and has amazing results.” Keeping the board in a place you see every day will be a healthy reminder of your intention.

With the economy changing, some women may want to make a big change in their career. Susan recommends that women be themselves and have time for work and play. Another helpful tip is, “Listen to your inner wisdom. We have so much wisdom inside that we never take time to listen to it. Take the time.” Being honest and finding a support system can help women acknowledge certain things in life that may be missed otherwise.

(continued on page 44)

“It’s incredibly humbling, fulfilling and rewarding when I see my clients flourishing

and transforming.”

susan mccauley

::sW inspire

44 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

::sW

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NOexcuses, she works full time as a paralegal at the Mayor’s Office and part time at the Pale and Bucket Pub. When it comes to juggling all of her many jobs, Christi admitted she’s very talented at multitasking and keeping herself organized. She accredits that gift to the six jobs she had at one time prior to moving to Syracuse.

While most would find such a jammed schedule a little overwhelming, Christi is just grateful she can do any of it.

In 2009, Christi suffered a traumatic brain injury after being thrown from a horse and getting kicked in the head. Because of her accident, she will always have to be in some kind of concussion management program, and take medication in order to speak. But rather than allowing her situation to crush her, Christi used it as a way to revive herself and find new meaning in a life that was almost taken away from her.

“I’m able to continue and to function and to do all this great stuff. You know, have a very important job, to be able to start a company, to be able to share this and to communicate with people,” said Christi. “Michael and I have been very lucky to have all this support from all these people, and it’s kind of like that good energy is coming back to us in a way.”

For more information about NOexcuses, visit noexcusessyr.com.

christi smith(cont)

Many women don’t have a disease or need treatment, but still look for ways to optimize their health and enjoy life. April helps them set goals such as regaining their joie de vivre (enjoyment of life), improving energy, managing stress, rekindling intimacy and overcoming hormonal hurdles.

“Women are looking for expanded choices for managing their health,” April said. “During menopause, for example, many women are dissatisfied with the choice of hormones and antidepressants for symptom relief. Because menopause is a normal life transition, it may feel more natural to use foods, herbs and exercise for symptom relief. That’s where I can help.”

Part of April’s job is to help her patients decide which health options are worth their time and money. She explains that there is no miracle hot flash herb or energy pill. “Every woman is unique. I treat people, not conditions,” she said. “That’s why buying a product on the advice of a neighbor, a friend or even Dr. Oz is almost always a poor decision.”

With the new year approaching, April has advice for women who do it all. “To make lasting change, women have to value themselves 365 days a year,” she said. “Make this the year that you do that. Then do it for the rest of your life.”

For more information on Botanic Her, visit botanic-her.com.

april Ward(cont)

The biggest piece of advice Susan can offer is working with a coach like herself. A life coach can help women get back on track to live life to the fullest. “Someone who will hold that safe space for them to explore, but will also encourage them, challenge them, hold them accountable, acknowledge and celebrate both their big and small wins with them,” Susan said.

She offered up one more important tip to help with the New Year: honest awareness. There are five “being aware” ways to achieve honest awareness. Being aware of who you are, where your life is right by completing “The Wheel of Life,” where your attention and energy is going, what’s good in your life, and who you may need to forgive. The Wheel of Life can be found on her website (successignited.com), and she promised that these five “being aware” ways will help all women ring in the New Year the right way.

Learning about life coaching as a profession came from reading a book, and she pursued her intention from there. “I instantly knew that was what I was meant to do, so I set my intention and enrolled in an amazing coach training program to become a Certified Professional Coach,” said Susan. The book and preparation guided Susan to change direction in her career to help women become more successful. “I believe I have been preparing my whole life to do this. I’m in my sweet spot when I’m coaching. It’s incredibly humbling, fulfilling and rewarding when I see my clients flourishing and transforming.”

For more information, visit successignited.com.

susan mccauley(cont)

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46 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

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e by alyssa lafaro i photos by jussara potter

“Be the change you wish to see in the world,” is not only a famous quote attributed to Ghandi, but a way of life for 15-year-old Adena Rochelson. It’s also the first thing you see when you visit the website for Operation Soap Dish, a nonprofit that provides toiletries and household cleaning supplies to people in need. Adena founded the organization in 2009 and spent three years of putting allowance, birthday money and time into purchasing toiletries and hosting collection drives. Operation Soap Dish became an official nonprofit in 2012.

It all began at St. Lucy’s Food Pantry on Gifford Street in Syracuse. Adena was 9, and her mom had brought her and her sister to the food pantry to volunteer. “We’re very fortunate,” shared Adena’s mom Liza. “We have a roof over our head and can afford to buy food. I was raised to appreciate those things. I wanted to show the kids that not everybody can afford those things, so I started taking them to the food pantry to teach them appreciation and teach them that lesson.”

While at the pantry, Adena noticed the mostly empty toiletry shelf there, and became intrigued. “I started using my weekly allowance from chores around the house to help get that shelf full. I truly thought my $4.50 allowance would fill that shelf and everything would be good, but obviously it wasn’t going to work,” laughed Adena. “I started doing drives in the community, and it just branched off from there.”

Today, Operation Soap Dish has 15 collection drives for people to donate and drop off toiletries at. Each Thursday or Friday, Adena and her mom visit the collection areas to pick up items and transport them to Adena’s “warehouse” (her parents’ basement), where she counts each item and sorts them based on where they’re headed. St. Lucy’s, Vera House, the InterReligious Food Consortium, Sarah House and the Ronald McDonald House all benefit from Adena’s efforts.

Most recently, Adena has developed events and initiatives to get more people involved and boost donations. This past spring, she worked with Mott Road Elementary School in Fayetteville to develop a lesson plan for 75 second graders about the importance of Operation Soap Dish in the community. “I created two super heroes: Super Soap Girl and Dirty Dash, who stole the soap from Super Soap Girl,” explained Adena. “I think creating a superhero is the best way to get kids involved and make it fun.” The kids also got a chance to create their own racecars out of soapboxes, using milk caps for wheels. Each class was asked to raise 25 items, and exceeded that expectation by collecting a few hundred toiletries. Adena’s newest initiative, called the S.O.A.P (Spreading Opportunities and Possibilities) Campaign, aims to form Operation Soap Dish chapters in other communities across the nation.

Adena’s hard work and determination haven’t gone unnoticed. This past summer, she was one of 10 kids to receive the national Kohl’s Cares Scholarship, which donated $1,000 to Operation Soap Dish and $10,000 to Adena for college. She received $36,000 in winning the 2014 Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Award, which “recognizes teens who are exceptional role models in their communities and beyond.” Tikkun olam is a Jewish concept that means, “repair of the world.”

“We see all these problems in the world and they’re so big, and we think, I can’t solve poverty. I can’t end world hunger,” admitted Adena. “But we don’t realize that, when you’re giving someone a bar of soap or a meal, you are solving a problem for them and you are changing their life. We shouldn’t underestimate the potential we all have.”

“I’m the one who learned the lesson,” added Liza, “because I walked by that empty shelf and didn’t even pay attention to it. It caught Adena’s eye and she was the one who kept filling it.”

For more information or to donate to Operation Soap Dish, visit operationsoapdish.org or contact Adena at operationsoapdish@gmail.com.

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at: (315) 436-6877 ormarysorrendino.com

SWM’s EventssyracusefirsT’s Buy local BashMore than 1,100 people — and the Syracuse Woman Magazine crew — got their local on at SyracuseFirst’s fifth annual Buy Local Bash, held for the first time at the Landmark Theatre on Monday, Nov. 24. The goal of the bash is to bring together community members and local merchants, and to kick off Buy Local Month, an effort to increase support for local inde-pendents during the holiday season. This year’s event played host to more than 70 independent, local vendors offering food and beverage, clothing, crafts, services and more. Photos courtesy of Charles Wainwright.

sWm & WBoc holiDay parTy & aucTion Syracuse Woman Magazine and the women of WBOC (Women Business Opportunities Connections) came together to put on their party-planning hats and dancing shoes to cohost a 2014 holiday party. Held at Pascale Italian Bistro at Drumlins — a perfect venue as it’s owned by a woman, Deb Pascale, who was also SWM’s July 2014 cover woman — more than 100 people attended the joint event, featuring delicious food and wine, dancing and more than $5,000 in auction items. And we can’t forget the WBOC flash mob that took place, as committee members suddenly gathered together on the dance floor to “Shake It Off” to Taylor Swift’s new hit single. Photos courtesy of Enfoque Images.

syracuse Woman magazine

events

JANUARY2015events calendar

h4h teal gating With syracuse crunch

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cuse pit creW three-year anniversary

What: celebrate Syracuse Woman Magazine’s four-year anniversary with food, fun and fabulous raffles at Café at 407. All proceeds will be donated to ophelia’s place. WHERE: Café at 407, Tulip St., Liverpoolinfo: the “entrance fee” for the event is one toiletry, which will be donated to operation soap dish. for more information, visit facebook.com/syracuse-Womanmagazine.

When: noon to 4 p.m.What: featuring more than 50 central new york premier wedding vendors, give-aways galore, swag bags and fashion, the lake ontario Wedding show is some-thing you don’t want to miss. Where: 26 east first st., oswego info: for more information, visit lakeontarioweddingshow.com.

When: 6 p.m. What: help hope for heather spread awareness for ovarian cancer while “teal gating” with the crunch as they take on the Wilkes-barre/scranton penguins. Where: War memorial arena, 515 montgomery st., syracuseinfo: for more information, visit hopeforheather.org.

When: 6 to 9 p.m.What: cuse pit crew celebrates three years of spreading awareness about pit bills through community outreach and educational programming. WHERE: Attilio’s, 700 N. Salina St., Syracuseinfo: for more information, visit cusepitcrew.org.

sWm celebrates four years

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50 january 2015 :: syracuseWomanmag.com

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how to keep new year’s resolutions

by amber brenza

asK amber: advice from an avid health nutQuestion: Each year I make New Year’s resolutions to work out more and eat healthier, but I end up doing it for about a week and fall back into my bad habits. How can I form better habits and actually stick to them for 2015? – Sarah, East Syracuse

Answer: If you don’t stick to your New Year’s resolutions for more than a week or two, you’re in good company. A 2013 study by researchers at the University of Scranton found that, of the 40 percent of Americans who resolve to lose weight or eat healthier at the start of each year, only 8 percent follow through. The good news? If you make it past the first few weeks with the rest of those 8-percenters, you’re more likely to maintain that healthy lifestyle for the rest of the year — or even your life.

So how do you go from fair-weather dieter to committed weight-warrior? Be realistic, suggests Georgia Austin, owner and clinical nutritionist at New Leaf Functional Nutrition in Manlius. “The first mistake that people make is setting an unrealistic goal or not committing to a lifestyle change,” she said. Aiming to lose 25 pounds at the beginning of January to fit into your Valentine’s Day dress will only set you up for failure — and decrease your overall health in the process.

Another tip: Don’t look to drop pounds for superficial purposes. Sure, we all want to look good for an upcoming high school reunion or winter vacation to someplace warm, but wellness is more about feeling good, and looking good as a result. “The healthy habits you want to put in place should be to maintain your health for a lifetime; it shouldn’t just be to fit into a dress or bathing suit,” said Austin.

To ensure that you stick to it this year, start small. Austin suggests making a list of the goals you want to accomplish, and then substituting good habits for the bad ones that hinder your progress.

Not sure where to begin? Start in the bedroom, since sleep quality is directly related to weight. “You can cut your coffee consumption in half or substitute reading for surfing the Internet the hour before you go to sleep,” said Austin.

Once you’ve got a normal sleep pattern down, start making dietary changes. If you just can’t survive without something sweet after dinner, swap out your favorite ice cream for a smoothie made with Greek yogurt, or forego that nighttime brownie for a baked apple with a drizzle of maple syrup. Remember that natural sweets aren’t necessarily an enemy — over-processed sugars are. Another small, but result-producing change: switching out refined grains like white bread or pasta for whole grain options like quinoa or steel-cut oats.

Finally, if you think you’re doing everything right and still aren’t seeing results, take a look at your support system (or lack thereof). “If your friends have unhealthy habits and are overweight, you’re more likely to adopt their behaviors,” explained Austin. Enlist a good friend to be your workout buddy, or ask your spouse to hold you accountable for your health goals. For those who feel they need a little extra encouragement, hiring a professional nutritionist and personal trainer is another option. They’re able to analyze your current routine and body composition to determine the best course of action for your new, healthy lifestyle.

Amber Brenza is a graduate of Ithaca College and Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. She currently lives in Emmaus, Pa., where she is pursuing a career in health journalism. When she’s not offering up advice to the women of Syracuse, she can be found eating peanut butter by the spoonful, trying new exercises at the gym, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @AmberBrenza.

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Parentdo-oversTen suggestions for the new year

Losing Nemo II Pets can teach atough lessonSyracuse 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.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.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.

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