Looking for a job is an exciting time, in a way - being on the hunt for your next chapter. Looking back, it’s hard to believe that I was that young, almost 23 years old, when I first began my now decades-long career. At my college commencement all of my friends and fellow classmates were ecstatic, giddy with excitement about all they had accomplished and all that lay ahead. I, on the other hand, was worried, scared even. Suddenly, I was in charge of my life.
Oh, sure, I had been a college student for four years, lived in an apartment for three of those four and worked part-time jobs in order to support the typical college lifestyle of ramen noodles and visits to local dive bars. But now, with my tassel newly rearranged on my mortarboard, I was suddenly, acutely aware of the fact that I was joining these students around me in search of employment that didn’t involve a cash register or serving drinks at the aforementioned establishments.
My newly-minted Bachelor of Journalism degree felt like just a piece of paper, and my experience, both at the college paper and in an internship at the Niagara Gazette in Niagara Falls, N.Y., made me feel less-than-prepared for the dog-eat-dog world that I perceived to be out there, waiting to show me up.
I started circulating my resume while working at several dead-end jobs, including my current-at-the-time gig on an assembly line at the Harlequin distribution center. It was kind of ironic, really, as an aspiring writer, to be constructing cardboard bookstore displays in which romance novels written by others would sit.
Then, one day, I had a lead on a job. I had sent my resume to several newspapers around the state, but one, right near me in a suburb of Buffalo, called me in for an interview. So I dressed up in a navy blue skirt with matching jacket under which I wore a crisp, white shirt. This outfit had been recommended as being the most professional at the time and, "Googling" it now, it appears that hasn’t changed much. Carrying a briefcase that was empty except for another copy of my resume and a few writing samples, I nervously approached the front door of Bee Newspapers in Williamsville on feet shod in pumps the same color blue as my suit. It all felt like armor as I was greeted by the receptionist, and I sat in the lobby, on a hard, wooden bench, as she called the managing editor to let him know I had arrived.
My heart rate increased when, after what seemed like an eternity, the editor called me in. The cacophony of voices and ringing phones and office humdrum all seemed to fall silent as I walked through the newsroom, and I felt eyes on me as I made my way past the cubicles, assessing my lack of grace and oddly coordinating outfit, I was sure. The interview itself was a blur; I couldn’t tell you what I talked about or what questions I was asked. I did feel, when I left, that I had done well, but was only told that I’d hear something when they had made their decision.
So, I went back to the place I had sublet for the summer while I launched my job search, back to my job at Harlequin, where I’d given up on taking care of my raw, cut-up hands (we were paid by piece, and gloves slowed me down, so I stopped wearing them;) back to hoping that the things I’d learned and experience I’d gained over the past few years would result in a job in my desired field. A week passed with no call. I went on a couple more interviews, one right here in Syracuse, but there had been something about that place in Buffalo that struck a chord with me. I don’t know if it was the receptionist with the sunny disposition, the bright, friendly location in a busy community or the bustling newsroom that was attractive to me. It was probably a combination of all three.
I finally couldn’t stand the suspense anymore, and picked up the phone, asking for the managing editor who had interviewed me more than seven days before. Heart pounding, I re-introduced myself and asked him if the position had been filled. No, he said, it hadn’t.
“When do you think you will make a decision?” I asked, fingers crossed.
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CAROL EATON HONORED WITH BUILDING RENAMING FOLLOWING 42-YEAR CAREER
The tourism community gather-ed last month at Traditions at the Links to celebrate the legendary 42-year career of Carol Eaton, senior vice president of marketing and communications at Visit Syracuse. The event culminated in a historic surprise announcement: the Visit Syracuse Visitors Center will be officially renamed in Eaton's honor as the Carol M. Eaton Visitor’s Center.
The renaming serves as a permanent tribute to a woman who began her career when the organization was known as the Onondaga County Convention & Visitors Bureau and spent four decades transforming the region into a premier global dest-ination.
During the ceremony, Visit Syracuse
President and CEO Danny Liedka revealed the surprise tribute to a standing ovation.
“Carol’s impact is foundational to everything we do,” said Liedka. “By renaming our building in her honor, we are ensuring that her name remains synonymous with the hospitality and excellence she championed for 42 years. She didn't just build a brand; she built the very home of tourism in Central New York.”
In addition, Onondaga County shared a proclamation designating Feb. 5 as Carol Eaton Recognition Day, the state Senate honored Eaton with a special proclamation and Bob Provost, president and CEO of New York State Hospitality and Tourism Association (NYSTIA) presented Eaton with a “Distinguished Member Emeritus Award.”
“Carol is a visionary leader who understands that tourism is a vital tool for community revitalization and pride of place,” said Provost.
“In fact, Carol is so indispensable to our industry that we aren't letting her go that easily; I have already enlisted her to continue serving on key NYSTIA committees. Her expertise and mentorship are simply too invaluable to lose.”
After more than four decades of visionary leadership, Visit Syracuse recently announced the retirement of Eaton, who throughout her tenure, was instrumental in evolving the bureau into a powerhouse Destination Marketing Organization.
Her leadership has been the driving force behind how Syracuse and Central New York are perceived on the global stage, elevating the region through her dedication to storytelling, partnership and a deep-seated love for her community.
“Carol Eaton is the heartbeat of this organization and has been my most trusted confidant as I stepped into this role,” said Liedka. “She didn't just market Syracuse; she helped our entire team redefine what a tourism office could achieve for its community. Through every peak and every challenge, her wisdom and steady hand have been our greatest support.”
A career defined by growth and excellence
A graduate of Le Moyne College, Eaton rose through the ranks— serving as services coordinator, tourism development manager, director of marketing and vice president—before taking on her most recent role. She led a highperforming marketing team focused on attracting world-renowned news outlets and travel journalists, attracting major conventions that continue to return, supporting
the growth of the local film and television industry (which is now Visit Syracuse Film,) and promoting the destination to leisure travelers to Onondaga County through various efforts, including the website, marketing material and the annual visitors guides.
“Carol Eaton’s influence in New York State’s tourism industry stretches far beyond Onondaga County,” Ross D. Levi, executive director of the New York State Division of Tourism said. “For more than four decades, Carol has been a tireless champion for her region, blending strategic marketing expertise with a genuine passion for her community. Her warm, collaborative spirit and expert leadership have been instrumental in the growth of tourism as a vital economic engine for New York. While Carol’s presence in our industry will be greatly missed, the impact of her work will be felt for generations to come.”
Her accolades are a testament to her impact, including being named the 2014 Tourism Executive of the Year by the New York State Hospitality and Tourism Association (NYSHTA). Under her guidance, Visit Syracuse earned prestigious honors such as the Davey Award, HSMAI Adrian Award and numerous New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA) Excellence in Tourism awards.
Beyond her professional achievements, Eaton has been a staple of the community. A long-time resident of East Syracuse, she said she looks forward to spending more time with her husband, Andrew, and their dog, Daisy, as well as cheering on her beloved Buffalo Bills with their three children, Nick, Sam and Carly. SWM
Syracuse goes Red for Women
On Feb. 4, individuals and businesses from all over Central New York donned red to celebrate the American Heart Association's annual Go Red For Women campaign, which draws awareness to heart health in women. Cardiovascular disease is the number one health risk for women in America and since 2004, the American Heart Association’s signature women's initiative has addressed awareness and clinical care gaps of care for women.
Galentine’s with WBOC
WBOC hosted their Galentine’s Social to celebrate and appreciate the women in their membership with an evening centered around connection, community, and a little surprise. Made possible by the success of the organization’s December Holiday Auction, each attendee received a wrapped “Blind Date with a Book” and a sweet treat as a small thank-you and reminder of the power of stories that shape us as women and business owners. The event reflected WBOC’s ongoing commitment to reinvesting in its members while supporting local businesses, including Of Moose and Mind Bookstore and Mitton Memory Creations. More than just a social gathering, the evening highlighted what happens when women intentionally show up for one another in business and in life. WBOC meets the first Wednesday of each month. Learn more at wboconnection.org.
Photos by Katrina Lynne Portrait Art.
A new era of Scouting:
INCLUSION DRIVES
GROWTH OF GIRLS’ TROOPS ACROSS
CNY
Elena Ehrhart
“AScout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.” That is the Scout Law girls around Central New York now have the chance to uphold through Scouting America, which formed two all-girls troops last fall in Syracuse and Liverpool.
In 2025, The Boys Scouts of America rebranded to become Scouting America, to formalize the organization’s dedication to inclusion and diversity. Now, all children are welcome to join the Scouts and are encouraged to explore the outdoors, learn life and survival skills, as well as self-reliance.
“I think there are a lot of views on what a Scout looks like and who can be a Scout,” said Jackie Dyke, Assistant Scout Master of Troop 203G, the allgirls troop in Liverpool that formed last September. “We are here to show that girls can be Scouts, too.”
According to The Scouting America Longhouse Council CEO Ed Theetge, girls who are a part of Scouting America “participate in a structured, outdoor-focused program that emphasizes camping, hands-on skills, youth-led leadership and a rank-based advancement system.” The program provides them with the same opportunities and requirements as boys, as well as the chance to earn the Eagle Scout rank.
The program parameters are the same for both boys and girls, with a focus on developing leadership and confidence, but “they differ in the structure, emphasis and style of experience.” The Longhouse Council oversees the troops in six counties across Central and Northern New York, which include the new troops in Liverpool and Syracuse.
As a child, Jackie wanted to be a Scout herself but never had the chance. She tried Girl Scouts, but found she wanted a more outdoorsy experience. It was not until she had sons of her own that she entered the world of scouting and fully embraced the program. With the rebranding of Scouting America, Jackie worked closely with Denise Garutto (now Troop 203G’s Scout Master) and Kim Stanton (the troop’s committee chair) to launch an all-girls troop in Liverpool.
“[The girls] are awesome and so excited to learn and do things,” Jackie said.“They are super supportive of each other.” Being a troop for older age groups, Troop 203G is very reliant on the girls organizing, planning and leading the group. They work together to plan camping trips and other outdoor activities. “The adults are really just there to supervise and help with any new skills,” Jackie said. “The girls are really in charge.”
The Scouts have a set curriculum that helps advance them to their next rank. This includes knife safety, wilderness survival skills, fire safety and starting, setting up tents and ethical behavior. The curriculum is meant to empower children and build their skills of leader-ship, awareness and compassion. As the months have gone on, Jackie has noticed the girls become bolder and more confident in themselves.
“It really is a great experience,” she said.
As the process of moving up nears, the troop is hoping to welcome advanced members of Cub Scouts (Kindergarten through 5th grade). Syracuse now has an all-girls Cub Scout pack, bringing these oppor-tunities to young girls in the city. Pack 55 is a program partnership with the YWCA and Girls Inc. at the YWCA. Also started in the fall, Pack 55 is providing the younger girls with a chance to explore the outdoors in a way they had not been able to before.
“The older girls had been invited to join [the Scouts], so we wanted to give the younger girls a chance to have these experiences, too,” said YWCA CEO Fanny Villarreal. Like Jackie, Fanny was introduced to the Scouts through the involvement of her son. With her role at the YWCA and the close partnership with Girls Inc., Fanny is passionate about ensuring opportunities for girls and women.
The Pack follows curriculum for both Scouting America and Girls Inc., nurturing their sense of self and developing their awareness of nature. The girls go shooting, go on camping trips and canoeing under close supervision and assistance.
“They are eager to learn,” Fanny said. “They have no hesitation, they just dive right in.”
Both Troop 203G and Pack 55 describe their scouts as determined, ready and excited to learn. The experience for the female leaders and the scouts has been equally eye-opening and empowering to their abilities and breaking stereotypes of young girls and women in the outdoors. These girls areperfecte xamples of the impact of accessibility for scouting programs; not just in Central New York, but across the country, too. They have proven that all children deserve the chance to learn and when given the opportunity, they will flourish. SWM
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Why more women are choosing prenups (and you should, too)
Marisa Maroney, Esq.
More women than ever are choosing prenuptial agreements, with Millennial and Gen Z women driving this change in narrative.
Women today are earning more, owning more, building businesses, and making intentional decisions about their futures. As of 2022, 45% of women in opposite-sex marriages earn as much or more than their husbands. That number rises to 52% among couples without children or where the woman has a bachelor’s degree or higher.
As a matrimonial attorney, I’ve watched prenups evolve from something people whispered about to something women actively ask for. As divorce has been discussed more openly— it’s become clear that blind trust in outdated legal defaults isn’t practical or proactive for women entering marriage.
In this article, I’ll explain why more women are choosing prenups and how they actually work to protect you within a marriage.
Whether you realize it or not, marriage is already a legal contract. A prenup simply allows you and your partner to write the terms.
Younger women aren’t afraid of prenups—and here’s why
According to a 2023 Harris Poll, 41% of Gen Z and 47% of Millennials who are engaged or married said they entered into a prenup. Nearly half of U.S. adults say they are open to signing one, a significant increase from just a few years ago.
These generations have watched divorces that were expensive, emotionally draining, and unpredictable. They’re also marrying later in life, often after establishing careers, accumulating assets and large student loan debts, or starting businesses.
Understanding the legal realities of marriage has become part of modern financial literacy.
Marriage: The contract most people don’t realize they’re signing
When you sign your marriage license, you’re signing a legally binding contract. Even if you don’t see it that way, the State of New York does.
Most people enter marriage without knowing the “terms and conditions” they’re agreeing to. In any other type of contract, a lawyer would advise you to fully understand the terms — and never sign without at least some negotiation. However, marriage is often treated differently by couples.
That becomes a problem if the marriage ends in divorce. At that point, you’re subject to New York’s default rules for dividing assets, liabilities, and determining spousal support.
What surprises many people is that New York’s divorce laws are largely formula-driven and emotion-neutral. The court does not consider who cheated, who sacrificed more, or who was “at fault.” Instead, it applies predetermined rules to divide finances and make decisions.
For example, when calculating spousal support, New York State caps an individual’s annual income at $228,000*. Any income above that amount may not be factored into the calculation at all. Additionally, if you are an unemployed stay-at-home spouse, the law calculates your income as if you were earning minimum wage (approximately $33,280* per year).
To many people, that doesn’t feel fair. And for many women, it isn’t. So yes — marriage is always a contract. The real question is: Do you want your contract to be the one New York State wrote for you, or one you and your spouse created together? *Adjusted periodically
A prenup doesn’t kill the fairytale
If the thought of a prenup feels like it’s ruining the fairytale, let me offer a different perspective. A prenup doesn’t mean you expect your marriage to fail. Life is unpredictable. Not everything is within your control. You can think of a prenup as a type of insurance for your marriage.
In my experience, the conversations that happen during the prenup process often strengthen relationships. Couples talk openly about money, goals, career plans, children, and expectations — topics that too many people avoid until conflict forces them to. It allows you and your partner to decide, together, what “fairness” looks like at a time when you’re deeply committed and operating without resentment.
That’s why I don’t see prenups as unromantic. I see them as gifts to each other. They require honesty, respect, and intentionality — all things that can give marriage a stronger foundation from the start.
Why my clients are getting prenups
There's no single “right” reason to get a prenup. While I personally believe most people should get one, I understand why some hesitate or assume it’s unnecessary.
Here are the most common reasons clients choose to move forward with a prenup:
• They feel anxious about divorce and want greater financial security
• They own — or plan to own — a business and want to define how it should be treated after divorce
• They expect to step away from their career to support their family
• They have children from a prior relationship and want their assets protected for them
• They want a clear, official record of what each person owned and owed at the time of marriage
• They’ve seen firsthand how expensive, unpredictable and emotionally taxing divorce can be
How to talk to your partner about a prenup
When bringing up a prenup, the heart of the conversation should always be love and partnership. Make it clear that a prenup isn’t about planning for divorce — it’s about protecting each other in an unpredictable world.
If you can, bring up the conversation early so there is no surprise or pressure. When you ask your partner about prenups, they may have misconceptions or fears, so it’s important to listen without judgment. Acknowledge those feelings and focus on the shared goal of creating a strong, honest financial foundation that will be the bedrock of your marriage. You’ll be happy to know that according to a Law Depot study, 92% of people did not feel offended or had a neutral reaction when asked to get a prenup by their partner.
Discussing a prenup doesn’t have to be awkward or transactional. When framed as part of your wedding planning, it becomes a tool for trust and transparency. By setting expectations early, you and your partner can focus on what truly matters: enjoying a strong, lasting marriage built on communication and respect. SWM
Marisa Maroney, Esq., is an attorney at Bousquet Holstein, PLLC. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
REBECCA KOONTZ From Soldier to CEO
'NO' IS NOT AN ANSWER FOR REBECCA KOONTZ
Lorna Oppedisano
Rebecca Koontz has never been comfortable being told "no."
That instinct — part defiance, part determination — has shaped every chapter of her life, from her earliest days pushing against authority, to a decade in the U.S. military, to leading Bush Crane, Inc., as its CEO in an industry where women are still the exception.
“As soon as I turned 18, I joined the military,” Rebecca said. “I knew early on that I wanted to join the military. I absolutely hated school with a passion.”
Long before she wore a uniform, Rebecca was already resisting limits. Growing up, she played army alongside her brothers, cousins and neighborhood kids, often hearing that she didn’t belong.
“Not for nothing but back then, both my brother and my cousin would tell me, ‘Oh, you can't join the army. Girls can't go into the military,’” she remembered.
“And I was like, ‘Yeah, right. Watch.’ I am one of those people, if you tell me I can't do it, I am going to show you exactly that I can prove you wrong.”
Continued on page 24
She didn’t just prove them wrong; she beat them to it.
“I went into the military years before my brother and my cousin,” she shared.
Rebecca’s military career would span a decade of active duty, followed by five years in the Reserves. But it wasn’t ambition alone that drove her enlistment. It was survival, clarity, and a deep sense that she needed structure before life spun too far out of control.
“If I'm being super honest, a lot of it had to do with the fact that I did not think that I would be successful in any other career field, because of my grades when I graduated,” she said. “Being very blunt, I didn't think I was smart enough to do college. I didn't think I was smart enough to do anything other than be in the military.”
She continued, with striking candor: “How do I say this? I would not be... a good person. I might not even be alive, to be honest, because I was a very heavy drinker. I think there was a part of me that knew that.”
The military didn’t just offer Rebecca a job and source of income. It offered her an entirely different, expansive path.
“I thought my only option was that I was going to work at Eckerd Drugs for the rest of my life, and that wasn't what I wanted,” she said. “I knew that there was much more to life outside of the environment that I was in. There's the whole world out there.”
Joining the military opened her eyes to a world beyond the boundaries of her upbringing, Rebecca shared, teaching her to appreciate the depth of diversity and richness of cultures she hadn’t yet been exposed to.
“While my service brought its share of difficult and unfavorable experiences, it also built in me a steady, open-minded, and deeply authentic love for this country and the people who make it what it is,” she said.
Reflecting back to her years in the service, Rebecca shared, “I can say that who I am now I truly love and the military was a big influence as part of my journey of life.”
Ironically, the structure she once pushed against became the foundation she didn’t realize she needed – though, when she enlisted, she didn’t believe that military structure would be beneficial to her.
“There were so many people who would say to me, ‘You, of all people, push against authority,’” she said with a laugh, “because I have pushed against authority my entire existence.”
Yet once inside the system, Rebecca found her footing. She thrived in administrative and operational roles, particularly in S1 shops — military human resources — where precision and accountability mattered. “Whatever systems they needed someone to learn to run and operate, I could jump in and I could handle it with no problem,” she said.
Her competence didn’t go unnoticed, as she quickly became relied upon by those in senior command ranks.
“I really enjoyed that work and I was really good at it,” Rebecca said. Still, advancement had limits. Due to her path to the military, it was hard for her to make rank. “The college education, that was the one area that I could not max out in,” she explained. “So, that basically kept me from getting past E5 rank.”
Then came 9/11. Prior to that day, Rebecca had been stationed at Fort Drum, part of a small detachment getting deployed to Afghanistan. When the mission for that unit was canceled, she vowed to find another way.
“I just felt this need,” she remembered. “I needed to be over there.”
She reenlisted to deploy to Kuwait, determined to serve where she felt she was needed most. Reflecting back on those years, Rebecca wondered if that was the best choice for her at the time. “Fast forward to now – probably not the best idea to make it happen versus letting things play out as the universe would want it to play out,” she said.
It took years for Rebecca to process the trauma.
“I worked really hard over the years to process a lot of the PTSD, not only for my childhood, but from the military,” she said. “So, I feel like I have a really good head on my shoulders now.”
Her priorities shifted entirely when she became a mother, a deep maternal instinct that was only revealed to her when she learned she was pregnant with her first child. “I did 10 years active duty, and then I got out when my daughter was a year and a half,” she said. “I wanted to be a stay-at-home mom.”
Even then, service never fully left her life. She joined the Reserves, balancing civilian work, military commitments, and family — including during her then-husband’s fourth deployment, when she was left managing everything alone with a five-year-old and a newborn.
Eventually, she made a decision that felt non-negotiable.
“We compromised that when he came back,” she said, “that I was going to get out to become a stay-at-home mom. No Reserve, no anything.”
That chapter was meant to be quieter. Instead, it became the most daunting pivot of her career. Her father’s diagnosis — stage 4 lung cancer — changed everything. “I basically packed up my kids and we lived in New York for about six months while he went through treatment,” she remembered.
Then, one day, her father asked her to take over Bush Crane, Inc., a business with which Rebecca had no prior experience.
“‘Becky, I'm losing control of the business. Can you take over?’” she recalled her father asking. “And I said, ‘Sure, Dad.’”
Internally, panic set in.
“I'm thinking in my head, ‘I'm a stay-at-home mom. What qualifications do I have to run a business? Let alone one that has anything to do with cranes or heavy equipment,’” she said. What followed was less mentorship than baptism by fire. “He sat down with me for five minutes, showed me how to type up an invoice and run a payment,” she said. “And that was all he did.”
Rebecca learned the rest by doing, and leaning heavily on her father’s longtime employee, Mike, whom she would later make her business partner.
“I say all the time, he is the backbone of the business, and I'm the brains and the beauty,” Rebecca said. “We’ve been running it very successfully. It'll be 10 years this November.”
She rebuilt the company from the ground up, dissolving the original entity and relaunching it under her leadership.
“When I took it over from my dad, it was not in a good, healthy place at all,” she said.
Drawing on her military discipline, Rebecca established structure, accountability, and consistency. She was able to stabilize finances and invest in her team. “At one point, I started a simple IRA for me and Mike,” she said. “Because of that, he was able to take that and buy his home.”
In a way, it was a nod of thanks from both Rebecca and her late father.
“To me, that felt like I was able to give him some payback for his loyalty to my dad,” she said.
Today, Bush Crane, Inc., operates across the East Coast, serving industries from food production to corrections. Rebecca runs the business while homeschooling her youngest child and navigating a field dominated by men. Fortunately, it’s a dynamic that hasn’t been an epic challenge.
“I may be in a very male-dominated arena but I am not made to feel that at all,” she said.
Visibility, she said, is her next frontier. Networking — once uncomfortable — has become energizing, particularly through the Women Business Opportunities Connection (WBOC), where she serves on the board of directors as vice president.
“They've made me feel so welcomed,” she said. “I seriously felt like I was at home.” SWM
To learn more about Bush Crane Inc., visit bushcrane.com. To learn more about Women Business Opportunities Connection (WBOC), visit wboconnection.org.
“I am one of those people, if you tell me I can't do it, I am going to show you exactly that I can prove you wrong.”
—Rebecca Koontz
Hormones, health and honesty
STARTING THE CONVERSATION
Dr. Wendy Scinta, MD, MS
Although the demographics have changed since the COVID lockdowns, middle-aged women remain a large part of my practice. Many are in their 40s and 50s and are experiencing major changes to their lives and bodies. Specifically, I am speaking about hormonal dysregulation caused by the various stages of menopause.
One of the reasons we started Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy at Medical Weight Loss of New York was because many of these folks were struggling with sleep and low metabolism which was affecting their weight loss. Once addressed, we had happier, healthier patients who lost weight more effectively.
A common theme that arose which I was not expecting was a mismatch between a sense of well-being, libido, etc. between these women and their partners. They would come home energetic and excited for intimacy, only to find their partner sitting in a chair, watching sports, fatigued, out of shape, looking back at them and asking, “What has that doctor done to you?!”
“He can’t keep up with me now.” I hear this frequently. “What should I do?”
We then begin the delicate discussion of how to approach a man going through andropause.
No man wants to feel like the one I described above. They feel lousy and are embarrassed to talk about things like trouble getting and sustaining an erection, loss of muscle strength, etc. Additionally, if you approach him with the subject of Testosterone Replacement Therapy, it is often taken as offending. What is the best approach to the topic? Here are some communication tips to get you back on the same page.
Choose the right moment
Timing and setting are crucial for any serious conversation. Find a moment when you both are relaxed and free from distractions. This could be during a quiet evening at home or a peaceful weekend morning. Avoid times when either of you is stressed or preoccupied with work or other responsibilities.
Share your own experience
Share your personal experience with BHRT before making it about them. Explain how it has improved your quality of life, energy levels, and libido. Your partner will be more receptive if they see the positive impact the therapy has had on you. For example:
“I’ve been feeling so much better since starting BHRT. My energy levels are up, and it’s really helped with my mood and libido. I think it might be worth looking into for you too. I really miss this part of our lives.”
Educate yourself on the benefits for him
Before initiating the conversation, educate yourself about BHRT for men, specifically. Start with your own experience as mentioned above, but understanding the common symptoms of hormonal imbalance for men will help you explain the therapy more convincingly and be able to address any concerns your partner might have.
“I’ve read that BHRT can help with low energy and mood swings. It also helps make you stronger and have better recovery from exercise. I have found that to be the case for myself. I think you would love it since you’ve mentioned feeling tired and stressed lately.”
Be supportive and empathetic
Approach the conversation with openness but be prepared for resistance. Prepare yourself ahead of time to stay calm if the conversation escalates. Your partner may have reservations but keep an open space to be able to listen to their concerns and offer reassurance. Make it clear that you’re suggesting this out of love and a desire for both of you to live your best lives.
Address common misconceptions
There are many misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy, especially for men. Reassure your partner that BHRT is a natural and safe way to balance hormones, using compounds that are chemically identical to those the body produces. You can say something like:
“I know the idea of hormone therapy might sound intimidating, but bioidentical hormones are designed to match our body’s natural hormones. It’s a safe and natural way to get back to feeling like yourself. It’s not a character flaw, it’s a normal process of aging that is totally treatable. If you had a nutritional deficiency causing you to be fatigued, you would replace it. Why not replace a hormonal one?”
Be patient
Change takes time, and your partner might need some time to think about the idea. Be patient and give them space to process the information. Follow up the conversation gently and occasionally. Be ready to provide additional information, resources, and support as needed. Sometimes they are scared of seeing the provider. I often ask my patients to bring their partners in for a visit with them so they can see that we are supportive and caring and will do a thorough workup including blood work. We will only address necessary deficiencies and in doing so can make a huge difference in their lives.
Suggest doing it together
BHRT is a great way to improve a relationship, intimacy, and quality of life together. At MWL, we have lots of women who start treatment and later bring in their partners. We even have patients who sync up their treatments, with the women coming in every four months and the men coming in every six months. Taking care of your health with your partner is a team effort as you get older. It’s going to happen eventually, why not enjoy this phase of life together!
Dr. Wendy Scinta is a nationally recognized expert on adult and childhood obesity treatment, and founder of Medical Weight Loss NY.
You don’t need a detox. You need real food and better habits.
Eric Rose
March arrives and suddenly detox season is everywhere. Juice cleanses, specialty teas, fasting protocols, and three-day resets promise to flush toxins and restart your metabolism just in time for spring.
I understand the temptation. Winter in Central New York is long and heavy. We move less. We lean into comfort food. Our energy dips. Our jeans fit differently. The first stretch of sunshine makes us want to fix everything at once.
But here is the truth. You do not need a detox. You need real food and better habits.
Your body already has a highly sophisticated detox system built in. Your liver filters and processes. Your kidneys regulate and eliminate. Your digestive system removes waste. Your lymphatic system clears what does not belong. If you are breathing, sleeping, and eating, your body is detoxing every single day without the help of a powdered drink or restrictive cleanse.
What most women are feeling this time of year is not toxicity. It is instability.
Blood sugar has been fluctuating. Inflammation has crept in from months of ultra processed convenience foods. Stress has been elevated. Sleep has been inconsistent. Muscle mass has quietly declined. Protein intake has likely been too low. That sluggish, puffy, low energy feeling is rarely about toxins. It is about metabolic imbalance. The solution is not to shock the system with another extreme reset. The solution is stabilization.
Protein is one of the most overlooked tools in women’s health, particularly after 35 and even more so after 40. As muscle naturally begins to decline, so does metabolic efficiency. When protein intake is inadequate, muscle loss accelerates, blood sugar becomes erratic, cravings intensify, and energy dips become more frequent.
When you prioritize quality protein at each meal, appetite stabilizes. Energy becomes more consistent. Strength improves. Metabolism becomes more resilient. Instead of building meals around restriction, build them around nourishment and structure.
Another common reaction to winter weight gain is elimination. Cut the carbohydrates. Slash calories. Skip meals. Push harder. Eat less. But sustainable change rarely begins with deprivation.
A more effective strategy is upgrading instead of eliminating.
Replace ultra processed foods with whole foods. Add vegetables before removing anything. Swap refined snacks for protein and healthy fats. When you nourish consistently, the body responds with balance. When you shock it, it responds with protection.
Hydration is another simple and powerful lever. Dehydration often masquerades as hunger and contributes to fatigue and digestive sluggishness. Adequate water intake supports circulation, digestion, and the natural detox pathways your body already performs. It may not be trendy, but it is foundational.
Movement also plays a critical role. You do not need to train like an elite athlete to support your metabolism. You do need to move consistently. Walking after meals can help blunt blood sugar spikes. Strength training two to three times per week preserves and builds muscle, and muscle functions as metabolic insurance as hormones shift and stress accumulates over time. It is one of the most protective longevity strategies available.
Sleep may be the most underestimated reset tool of all. Poor sleep elevates cortisol levels, and elevated cortisol encourages fat storage, especially around the midsection. It increases cravings and disrupts blood sugar regulation. Before investing in another supplement or cleanse, protect your bedtime and create consistency in your sleep routine.
It is also important to address fasting. For the average healthy woman feeling sluggish after winter, fasting is not a requirement for metabolic health. The body does not need to be starved into balance. There are specific medical situations in which therapeutic fasting may be appropriate under supervision, particularly when someone is working to trigger autophagy in the presence of a significant metabolic or cellular issue. That, however, is not most women seeking a seasonal reset.
For most women, aggressive fasting becomes another stressor layered onto an already stressed system. Additional stress does not fix metabolism. Stability does.
You do not need punishment to move forward. You do not need extremes to create change. You do not need to start over every Monday. You need consistency. You need real food. You need muscle. You need hydration. You need sleep. You need better habits practiced long enough to matter.
Spring is not about shrinking yourself. It is about rebuilding strength, resilience, and metabolic stability. It is about supporting your body instead of fighting it. It is about steady energy instead of quick fixes.
Your body is not broken. It is asking for support. And that support does not come from a bottle, a tea, or a three-day cleanse. It comes from simple, powerful habits layered consistently over time.
That is the real reset.
And it works.
Eric Rose is a health and wellness coach and award-winning chef.
Sheet Pan Chicken Mediterranean Style
Eric Rose
Low Inflammatory recipe. Chicken, zesty marinade and fresh veggies.
This easy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken delivers bold, fresh flavor with almost no cleanup. Lemon, garlic and herbs infuse juicy chicken thighs, roasted alongside zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes. A touch of paprika adds warmth, while olives and feta bring a savory finish. It’s a vibrant, low inflammatory meal that’s simple, nourishing and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
INGREDIENTS
¼ cup olive oil
2 lemons, juiced plus the zest
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp Dijon Mustard (optional)
6 fresh sprigs of thyme
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Whole chicken cut in parts
1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise, sliced
1 orange bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cups medium mushrooms whole
½ large red onion, cut into medium wedges
2 cups cherry tomatoes, whole
½ cup kalamata olives, pitted
½ cup feta cheese
2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F with sheet pan
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest then juice, minced garlic, oregano, (Opt. Dijon mustard), smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a bowl, pour ½ of the marinade over them, and toss to coat. Let marinate for 30-60 minutes. If you’re short time 10-15 minutes will still help.
4. Place the chicken thighs on the sheet pan and bake for 15-20 minutes.
5. Add the vegetables zucchini, bell pepper, mushroom, red onion, and cherry tomatoes, olives and toss in the left-over chicken marinade in the same bowl. Scatter vegetables around the chicken on the same baking sheet. Add a few sprigs of thyme.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove from the oven, add the feta, and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables should be tender but not overly soft.
7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
MELANIE WICKS
The light she sees
IN THE ABSENCE OF WORDS, LOVE SPEAKS
August Lindsey
By the time she was four years old, Melanie Wicks had already begun learning a language most of us never have to study — the language of the soul.
Today, at 40, Melanie — affectionately known as “Mel” or “Mellow” — works in a New York State–run residential home for individuals with developmental disabilities under the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Her role requires what professionals call “total care.” Feeding. Bathing. Positioning. Monitoring. Advocating. Loving.
But ask Melanie what she really does, and her answer is far simpler. “I see them,” she says softly. “I see their light.”
A childhood that shaped a calling Melanie grew up the youngest of three girls — Amy, five years older, and Emily, just three years older. From birth, Emily required complete and total care. She could not speak. She could not care for herself. Her needs were constant and lifelong.
When Melanie was four, her biological father left the family.
“It was difficult for him to accept having a child with such profound disabilities,” Melanie reflects. “He couldn’t cope with it, so he walked away.”
What could have shattered the family instead became a crucible that shaped Melanie’s heart. The care of Emily fell to her mother, Nadine, and the three sisters. Daily life revolved around feeding schedules, medical routines, and constant vigilance.
But for Melanie, something deeper was forming.
“Emily gave me a love that was completely pure,” she says. “She couldn’t speak words, but she communicated something deeper. I discovered a connection at the soul level that I didn’t even know was possible. The light of love I experienced with her — I would never have known it without her.”
In a world that often measures worth by productivity or independence, Melanie learned early that a human being’s value has nothing to do with ability. The man who became “Dad”
When Melanie was 18, her mother married Tim — the man Melanie proudly calls her dad.
“The beauty of this man,” she says, smiling, “is that he took our whole, ragged family of females exactly as we were. And he adored Emily.”
Tim’s acceptance was transformative.
“He loved her without hesitation. There was no pity. No discomfort. Just pure acceptance. That changed everything for us.”
For the first time, the family had a steady presence — someone who offered strength without judgment and tenderness without fear.
“He was our rock,” Melanie says simply. Tim passed away four years ago after a battle with lung cancer. But his example of unconditional support remains woven into Melanie’s understanding of what love looks like in action.
From haircuts to heart work
After high school, Melanie attended cosmetology
school and worked at Supercuts from 2005 to 2009. It was honest work — creative, social, steady.
But something inside her was stirring.
In late 2009, she accepted a position with Toomey Residential and Community Services, part of Catholic Charities, working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
The focus was empowerment: helping each person grow in independence, learn new skills, and integrate into the community.
It didn’t take long for Melanie to realize she had stepped into something far bigger than a job.
“Everything changed,” she says. “I wasn’t just working — I was supporting people. I learned to let them be fully themselves and to love them without conditions. Not based on how they look. Not based on what they can or can’t do. Just love.”
The heart that had been formed alongside Emily now had a broader field in which to serve. “This was the beginning of the journey I’m still on,” she says.
Eye-to-eye, Soul-to-soul
In 2012, Melanie joined the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), working in a state-run residential home setting. Here, care is deeply personal — often one-on-one, in an intimate home environment.
And here is where Melanie’s philosophy fully came into focus.
“That’s why I love my job so much,” she explains. “It’s eye-to-eye between people who can’t speak for themselves — but who communicate in ways that are just as powerful.”
She describes moments that many might overlook: a subtle sound of contentment after a warm bath, a relaxed posture after a good meal, a small laugh when connection is made.
“There’s this light that turns on,” she says. “You see it when they’re clean and comfortable, when they feel safe, when they know someone is really there with them. In that moment, love speaks.”
For Melanie, total care isn’t clinical. It’s sacred.
“I get to hang out with these incredible individuals,” she says with a grin. “I just let them shine. I let them tell me who they are and what they need from me. There is no greater satisfaction than helping someone express the light of who they are.
Seeing beyond limitations
In a culture that prizes speed, speech, and selfsufficiency, Melanie’s work moves at a different rhythm. It requires patience. Presence. Stillness.
And above all, vision.
“I don’t see limitations first,” she says. “I see souls.”
The little girl who once learned love through the silent language of her sister now carries that same sensitivity into every room she enters. Where others might see disability, she sees depth. Where others might see silence, she hears meaning.
“In the absence of words,” she says, “love speaks the loudest.” SWM
Photos from top, down: Melanie and Scott; Emily and Melanie; "Dad" Tim, Emily and Nadine; Melanie, Emily and Nadine; Scott and Melanie.
BRITTANY MAZZAFERRO Transforming education at New York's first regional STEAM high school
Janelle Davis
New York State's first Regional STEAM High School opened its doors this September in Syracuse, and at the heart of its success is Brittany Mazzaferro, a young leader who is revolutionizing how students prepare for their futures.
As Work-Based Learning Coordinator, Mazzaferro oversees more than 240 working and learning opportunities for students, supported by more than 90 community collaborators. But her passion for handson, career-focused education comes from personal experience, when she entered the workforce with a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, employers wanted industry certifications she didn't even know existed.
“I had no idea about the certifications,” Mazzaferro said. “I could have taken a test and been more valuable than my four-year degree.” Now, she's making sure no student faces that same obstacle.
From cyber security to education
Mazzaferro's path to education wasn't traditional. With degrees in psychology, cybersecurity, and computer forensics, she spent a year in the cyber field before called to create New York State's first-ever high school CTE cybersecurity program.
She taught for eight years before briefly becoming an IT director. “I realized I made a big mistake,” she said. “Even though I love technology, it wasn't the same.”
Syracuse called her back, first as Work-Based Learning Coordinator for Nottingham High School, then for the newly opening STEAM school.
“I remember thinking, ‘I would love to work at that school when they finish it,’” Mazzaferro said. "But I thought they'd never pick me. It's crazy how life worked out.”
Building New York's first regional STEAM high school
The STEAM school — Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics — opened this September with 250 ninth graders. The “A” for arts was intentionally added because Syracuse has a thriving arts community that attracts businesses seeking tax incentives.
“We've worked with writers from 'House of Cards,' people who worked with Beyoncé, the guy who was part of writing ‘Star Wars,’” Mazzaferro said.
The school operates as a four-year CTE (Career and Technical Education) program, adding a new grade each year. Students take industry certification exams that count as Regents exams, earn college credits, and participate in hands-on work experiences every month with local businesses.
“Construction students go to construction sites. Every month, they get to work with a different business,” Mazzaferro explained. “By senior year, they're going out for internships.”
Over 90 collaborators, 240+ opportunities
The school's success is built on extraordinary community partnerships. Principal Jody Manning brought in 80 collaborators who donated
everything needed to build the school; Syracuse and New York State didn't spend a dollar on creating it.
Collaborators have donated iPads, desktop computers, dance uniforms, robotics equipment, and tools. The robotics lab, donated by JMA, looks like a professional workspace rather than a traditional classroom.
Mazzaferro has expanded those partnerships, creating more than 240 working and learning opportunities for students across programs, including animation, game design, data analytics, semiconductor technology, and AI.
A different kind of learning
The impact on students has been remarkable. The school opened with 250 students and has only lost about 13, an almost unheard-of retention rate.
“I'd have a roster of 25 in my cyber class and only have 11 students,” Mazzaferro said of her previous teaching. “For our school to have that number, I've never heard that.”
Attendance is strong, behavior issues are minimal, and students are engaged in ways traditional classrooms often struggle to achieve.
“Content teachers would say, ‘We can't get students to come to class, but we see they're coming to your class all the time,’” Mazzaferro explained. “Having that hands-on opportunity where you're constantly doing something, kids get restless. We're not meant to be sitting all day, eight hours in one place.”
Students learn skills they'll use regardless of their future career path, from operating computers to recovering deleted data.
“Even if they're not going into that CTE field, they learn valuable skills,” she said.
Removing barriers to success
Mazzaferro created a driver's initiative program for the Syracuse City School District, helping students get their licenses from start to finish.
A partner company picks students up, brings them to road tests and provides cars.
“Anything students need, I tell them to come to me. I will make it happen,” she said.
She's also continuing her business, Sign Me Up Cyber, where she teaches cybersecurity and CompTIA courses. Through partnerships with CompTIA, she's reduced certification costs from nearly $1,000 to a few hundred dollars, a 75% discount.
“I didn't want people to go through what I went through,” Mazzaferro said.
Looking ahead
As the school grows, Mazzaferro's vision is clear: make each year better than the last, with unique opportunities that build progressively. “I always thought if you wanted to be successful, you had to get out of Syracuse,” she said. “And it's so wrong. There's so much right here.” The school welcomes tours for interested families, and students can shadow programs before committing.
“Anyone in the community is welcome to see what we're doing,” she said. “The more collaborators, the merrier.”
Mazzaferro credits Principal Jody Manning and Dan Straub for their partnership. “They are the foundation of it,” she said. “I've never worked with such amazing bosses.”
With passion, partnership, and commitment to breaking down barriers, Mazzaferro is proving that success doesn't require a traditional four-year degree; it requires opportunity, hands-on experience and someone willing to fight for students who need it most. SWM
For more information about the Regional STEAM High School, contact the school to schedule a tour or learn about enrollment.
AMY PETERS AND ROSEANNE DEPIETRO
C MICHAEL EXTERIORS, INC
by
Photgraphy
Fanciphy Photography
Breaking barriers, building dreams
HOW AMY PETERS AND ROSEANNE DEPIETRO ARE REDEFINING SUCCESS IN A MALE-DOMINATED INDUSTRY
August Lindsey
When you walk into the headquarters of C. Michael Exteriors in East Syracuse, New York, the energy is unmistakable. Phones are ringing, keyboards are clacking, sales consultants are huddled over contracts, and trucks pull in and out of the loading bay with the steady rhythm of progress. It’s the sound of a company in motion — and at the center of it all are two women who are quietly, confidently redefining what leadership looks like in home improvement.
Meet Amy Peters and Roseanne “Ro” DePietro — the powerhouse duo steering one of Central New York’s fastest-growing home remodeling companies.
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, Amy and Ro have confidently claimed their seats at the table and are leading by example. From the ground up
Roseanne DePietro’s story with C. Michael Exteriors began when she was just 19 years old. Today, she serves as CFO, overseeing the company’s finances, accounts payable and receivable, and customer financing operations with precision and care.
“I’ve worked with the owners for decades,” Ro says. “I give 110% because I’ve been given that in return. Trust is everything. When you’re trusted to lead, you rise to meet it.”
In fact, Ro’s impact on the company runs deep — she even named it. “C. Michael was someone beloved by the owners,” she explains. “We honor his legacy every single day.”
Over the years, Ro has seen the industry evolve — and she’s evolved right along with it. “There was a time when you had to prove yourself twice as hard,” she admits. “But things are shifting. It’s more widely understood now that women bring just as much — if not more — to the table. That shift makes space for us to lead authentically.”
And with her partnership with Amy Peters, her leadership role has blossomed.
A new presence steps up
Amy Peters joined C. Michael Exteriors in 2020 as Call Center Manager, bringing with her a strong background in sales, client retention, and team leadership. As the company experienced explosive growth, her role expanded quickly. Today, she oversees daily operations, HR, team development, scheduling, and strategic alignment across departments.
“My role centers on keeping teams, schedules, and communication aligned,” Amy explains. “In a fast-moving company, clarity is power.”
Building authority in a male-dominated field hasn’t always been easy — but for Amy, it’s been empowering.
“I’ve learned that preparation, confidence, and consistency earn respect,” she says. “You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room. You need to be the most prepared.”
Her leadership style is both strategic and human-centered. From designing streamlined tracking systems to empowering employees to make decisions in real time, Amy has helped create an environment where accountability and positivity thrive side by side.
“We encourage solutions,” she says. “If someone sees a problem, we trust them to fix it. That kind of empowerment changes a workplace.”
Strength in partnership
While their titles reflect impressive individual accomplishments, Amy and Ro are quick to credit their partnership as the real secret to success. “We rely on each other every day,” Amy shares. “We navigate challenges together and celebrate the wins — big or small — together.”
Their collaboration brought balance to a company historically led by two male owners, now in their seventies, who have gradually entrusted nearly all day-to-day operations to the pair.
The results speak for themselves: record sales growth, high customer satisfaction, and strong employee retention.
“When leadership supports you and believes in you, it fuels your growth,” Ro says. “And when women support women? That’s unstoppable.”
Building a culture
As you tour the facility — past the organized warehouse filled with windows, siding, and shower enclosures, past the master scheduling board meticulously tracking every stage of the customer journey — one thing becomes clear: this isn’t just a company.
It’s a culture.
The atmosphere is warm but focused. Employees laugh between tasks. Amy’s tiny white Cotonese named Mira occasionally makes her rounds, reminding everyone that joy belongs in the workplace, too.
“We’ve worked hard to create an environment where people feel valued,” Amy says. “Where everyone pulls their weight and communicates openly.”
A message for women in business
For every woman who has ever walked into a room and wondered if she belonged there, Amy and Ro offer this reminder: You do.
Amy and Ro agree: “Don’t wait to be invited into leadership. Prepare yourself, step forward, and trust that your work will speak for you.”
As C. Michael Exteriors continues to grow, so does the example Amy Peters and Roseanne DePietro set for women everywhere – yes, you too can do it. SWM
Photgraphy by Fanciphy Photography
Photgraphy by Fanciphy Photography
“Well …” he paused for a beat and asked, “are you interested?” I remember those exact words, because it was said so nonchalantly, as if he was wondering if I wanted some lunch or what time it was. Trying to keep the nerves out of my voice, I replied in the affirmative.
“When can you start?” he asked.
Thinking of the band aids and Neosporin I had started wearing on my hands at night to try to soothe and protect the cuts from the assembly line I said, “As soon as you’d like.”
So after serving out my two weeks’ notice at Harlequin, I proudly stepped through the front door of that beautiful white building in a cute Buffalo suburb, this time as a full-time journalist. It felt like the world was my oyster – like this was the beginning of a wonderful, new chapter in my life, one that would lead me down different roads, meeting a lot of amazing people while doing something I loved.
And I was right.
Like I said – the hunt for a new job can be an exciting time, whether you are fresh out of college or a seasoned professional looking for a change of pace. There are many opportunities out there - opportunities to grow more than just your bank account, opportunities that, when you look back, decades later, you’ll be grateful for, as you’ll realize they’ve shaped who you are now.
Just like I look back with gratitude to that girl in the blue suit with cuts on her hands, stepping into what would become her life-long career.
JAMIE SARA LEWIS
Elena Ehrhart
Back where it began
VOICE ACTRESS RETURNS TO SYRACUSE TO BUILD AN ARTISTIC COMMUNITY
After spending years in New York City and Los Angeles working as a voice actor, Jamie Sara Lewis has returned to her hometown of Syracuse, New York, where she continues her work, but has also taken on a new role: mentor.
Jamie always knew she was going to be a performer. Growing up, she performed in local theater productions and modeled. At just 16, she graduated from Liverpool High School and began attending Onondaga Community College, where she got an internship with 95X before eventually becoming a DJ at Z89.
“As a kid who could never sit still, it was a good outlet for me,” Jamie said with a giggle.
It was during this time in her life that she was introduced to “Voiceover God” Howard Parker. He saw something in Jamie she had yet to see in herself – her animated, enthusiastic and passionate presence was not just ADHD – she was a character actor.
Jamie fully embraced this new opportunity and moved to New York City at just 20 years old. “I knew it was time to move,” she said. “I had no plan.”
A comedian she met told her about a conservatory, the New York Academy of Dramatic Arts and encouraged her to audition. It was meant to be. Jamie was one of the limited number of those accepted into the conservatory.
“I learned that my voice is my product,” she said. “I learned how to hone my voice. Now, I can give a character a lisp or a slack jaw, or maybe they have a stuffy voice.” As she spoke, Jamie demonstrated how she adjusts her voice to do different characters and add those unique elements to bring those she voices to life.
Now, Jamie has brought her classes to Syracuse, which she returned to three years ago. After almost 20 years away, Jamie and her husband decided it was time to go home. Her classes prepare children ages eight to 17 years old for breaking into the film and television industry. She teaches technique, character exploration and the brutal realities of the industry.
“I love watching these kids learn and develop. It really is a beautiful thing,” she said, beaming with pride. “It’s amazing watching them grow.”
Jamie circled back to the “human element” of acting. She described the importance of interacting with others for shaping an actor’s ability. Being around the children helps provide them with an example and her with the chance to make an impact on their lives.
Growing up here, I didn’t really have a mentor for the arts,” she said. “I wasn’t prepared for the industry. Now that I’m here, I want to be that mentor and give these kids industry-level training.”
In a post-pandemic world, making connections, especially as a voice actor, has become increasingly difficult. As a self-described “people-person,” Jamie has found this shift isolating.
When discussing her works like the Netflix film “Dr. Seuss’s The Sneetches” (which she was able to record from her home in Syracuse), her role in Disney’s “Doc McStuffins” and her upcoming film trilogy “Wildwood,” Jamie’s face lights up. The adoration she has for her craft seemed to radiate through her body. She becomes as animated as the characters she voices.
Jamie’s passion has extended beyond just furthering her own career. During her time in New York City and Los Angeles, she began teach acting classes and eventually branched out to teach virtual classes, allowing her expertise to reach young aspiring actors worldwide.
“The pandemic really changed a lot,” she said. “On one hand, you don’t have to be in New York or L.A. to audition. When I was coming up, I was really pounding the pavement going from audition to audition, getting my headshots and resumes printed, but now I can do it all from home.” While that is a convenience, allowing Jamie to continue her work from her new home in Syracuse, it also poses challenges with wider competition and missing what she calls “the human element.”
“I really like being able to connect with people. I like being face-to-face with them. There’s nothing that can replicate human connection.”
As Jamie continues to regrow her Syracuse roots, she is looking into the local theater scene and searching for “a creative community.” Although it may look different than it did before her career began, Jamie is determined to foster an environment to help and inspire other creatives.
“Artists need community to thrive,” she said. “They need support and drive. I want to create that for the artists of Syracuse.” SWM
Saturdays through March 28
Sugarbush Saturdays, PancakeBreakfast
What: Take an outdoor tour of the sugarbush to learn all about the history and process of making maple syrup. See the different methods used to extract sap, watch as sap boils down into syrup and even taste some of the finished product. Tours of the sugarbush are offered continuously. Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville.
When: 10 a.m to 1 p.m.; 9 a.m. to noon breakfast.
Info: Tours are free with park admission ($5/vehicle). Breakfast costs $3 to $7, depending on appetite. Beaver Lake's sugarbush is located 0.3 miles down the Woodland Trail; beaverlakenature.org.
Saturday-Sunday, March 1-14
Downtown Syracuse Dining Weeks
What: Participating restaurants will offer two-course lunches for $15 or less, three-course dinner options for $40 or less or Sweets & Treats for $10 or less from participating businesses. Where: 50-plus locations at press time, for list visit downtownsyracuse.com. When: Lunch and dinner.
Info: Visit downtownsyracuse.com for more information.
Friday-Saturday, March 6-7
Syracuse Contemporary Dance Company In Concert
What: This festival celebrates the creativity and diversity of talented choreographers and dancers from Central New York and beyond.
Where: The Oncenter Carrier Theater, 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse. When: 7:30 p.m. each night.
Info: For tickets visit, asmsyracuse.com.
Saturday, March 7
Swan Lake
What: This timeless tale of love and magic will be brought to life by the finest dancers of the Ukrainian National Opera and Ballet Theater. Where: Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. When: 7 p.m.
Info: Ticket prices vary; ticketmaster.com.
Saturday, March 7
Awadagin Plays Mozart (Masterworks)
What: The concert begins with Guilliame Connesson’s “Celephais” from Les Cités de Lovecraft. Awadagin Pratt returns to perform Mozart’s “Piano Concerto No. 23.” The Syracuse Orchestra also presents “Symphony No. 5” by Prokofiev. Music director candidate Jacob Joyce conducts.
What: Featuring a delicious pancake breakfast (9 a.m. to noon,) cooked up by the Apulia Fire Department, a horse drawn wagon ride, with CNY Carriage Co and a live maple sugaring demonstration by the Highland Forest staff. Visitors can choose to participate in one, two or all three of the activities taking place each day of the event. No reservations, first-come, first-served.
Where: Highland Forest Park, 1254 Highland Park Road, Fabius.
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Info: Maple Sugarbush tours are free, wagon rides are $10, with under 5 free and breakfast is $10, $8 seniors 65 and up and $6 for children under 12. Cash only.
Thursday, March 19
Dirty Dancing in Concert
What: This unique live-to-film concert event features the original film projected in full, accompanied by a live band and singers performing every unforgettable song from the soundtrack. After the final scene, the fun keeps going with a dance-along encore party that invites you to celebrate the music that made history.
Where: The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery Street, Syracuse.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Info: Purchase tickets at ticketmaster.com.
Sunday, March 22
MasterWorks Chorale - 60th Anniversary Concert
What: Requiem by Gabriel Fauré, with chamber orchestra. Additional works by Ralph Vaughan Williams, Léo Delibes, Randall Thompson and Fauré. All proceeds to support the MasterWorks Chorale.
Info: $24-$98; students with ID $5; kids under 18 with adults get in free; syracuseorchestra.org.
Sundays, March 8, 22
Snowshoe Sundays
What: Bundle up and explore CPF’s scenic trails while enjoying a fun, low-impact activity suitable for all ages. If snow conditions aren’t sufficient, the outing will become a winter hike instead. Snowshoes are available to borrow.
Where: Begin and end at Meier’s Creek Brewing Company, 33 Rippleton Road, Cazenovia. When: Noon
Info: To ensure availability, participants are encouraged to reserve snowshoes in advance at cazpreservation.org/events. Those borrowing snowshoes should arrive by 11:30 a.m. to allow time for check-in and gearing up.
Friday, March 13
Sustainable Seafood Pairing Dinner
What: Enjoy a multi-course feast crafted by Executive Chef Allison Walts and perfectly suited wines to go along with each tasty bite. During the meal, you'll learn about sustainable fishing practices and what we can all do to protect the world's oceans and aquatic wildlife.
Info: For tickets visit rosamondgiffordzoo.org. Must be 21 to attend.
Info: Suggested donation at door $20 adults; 18 and under get in free; masterworkscny.org.
Friday March 27
CNY Women's Summit 2026
What: A must-attend event for women. We're expecting 500 women professionals for a powerful day of connection, inspiration and actionable growth. Learn from women driving change in their industries, develop your skills in hands-on workshops and build the kind of network that opens doors.
When: 8 am - 6:30 pm
Where: The OnCenter, 800 State St., Syracuse, NY 13202
Friday-Sunday, March 27-April 5
SU Drama's A Rebel Prayer
What: A searing new musical about protest, loss, and the power of art. When a politically provocative play costs her father his life, 16-year-old Nikita and her mother are forced to flee Moscow for Domikov, a remote Russian town. Mired in grief and desperate to return home, Nikita is visited by the spirits of Pussy Riot, the real-life punk-protest collective imprisoned for their art.
Where: Syracuse Stage, 820 East Genesee St., Syracuse.
When: Showtimes vary.
Info: Get tickets at syracusestage.org.
Friday-Sunday, March 27-29
Steel Hearts: The John Henry Musical
What: This production follows a free Black man in the 19th-century South as he dares to dream bigger than the chains that tried to hold him, and stronger than the machine that tried to replace him. With an original Indie-Gospel score that swings like steel on rail, Steel Hearts turns the epic of Henry into a living myth, echoing the dream of every person who has stood against the storm.
Where: The Oncenter Carrier Theater, 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse.
Dr. Miranda Gonzalez joins staff at St. Joseph’s Health
St. Joseph’s Health recently welcomed Miranda Gonzalez, MD, to its team. Dr. Gonzalez has joined St. Joseph’s Physicians Primary Care in Liverpool, following the successful completion of her family medicine residency at St. Joseph’s Health Hospital. In addition to caring for patients in the outpatient setting, she also serves as a hospitalist, providing expert inpatient care alongside our highly skilled clinical team.
Dr. Gonzalez received her Bachelor of Arts in biology, with minors in music and psychology, from CUNY Baruch College in New York City. While there, she received two scholarships and later held positions as adjunct lecturer and research assistant at the college. She went on to receive her Doctor of Medicine from SUNY Upstate Medical University College of Medicine in Syracuse.
“I appreciate the smaller, yet lively city of Syracuse. I decided to stay at St. Joseph’s because of the caring and compassionate environment,” said Dr. Gonzalez. “It is exciting to be able to make deep connections with patients and follow long-term milestones, as well as take care of patients in their most vulnerable moments while hospitalized.”
Dr. Gonzalez has been published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology for her research on non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma with extra-nodal involvement of the colon.
Dr. Gonzalez is seeing patients at St. Joseph’s Physicians Primary Care at 5100 W. Taft Road, Suite 1D, Liverpool. Call 315-452-2828 to schedule an appointment.
Leadership Greater Syracuse welcomes new board members
Leadership Greater Syracuse (LGS) has announced the addition of four new community leaders to its board of directors – Shelby Baskin, AmeriCU Credit Union; LaToya Jones, LeadSafe CNY Coalition housed at United Way of CNY; Megan Thomas, Megan Thomas Law; and Kelly Vaccaro, HematologyOncology Associates of CNY.
“These new board members add a vast diversity of knowledge and expertise—including health, finance and legal—to Leadership Greater Syracuse’s board,” said Executive Director, Michele Diecuch. “They are strong leaders within their respective organizations and the larger community. I am looking forward to collaborating with them to help LGS continue to grow.”
Shelby is the operations manager for the financial centers (branches) at AmeriCU Credit Union. She has been with AmeriCU for nine years, working in the Fayetteville Financial Center before joining the Operations team in 2021. In her current role, Shelby and her team support AmeriCU’s 25 financial centers and work to develop new processes and improve existing ones. Shelby is also a trustee for the New York Credit Union Foundation Board and currently serves on both the LGS Program Committee and Interview Committee. Shelby is a graduate of the LGS class of 2020.
LaToya is a visionary health equity leader, social impact strategist and disability advocate with nearly three decades of experience advancing community well-being. She began her healthcare career at age 16 as a certified nursing assistant and became a licensed practical nurse by 17. LaToya currently serves as director of LeadSafe CNY Coalition housed at United Way of CNY, where she leads Health Strategy. LaToya is also the president and founder of The Joe Family Foundation for Disability Advocacy Inc.,
advancing equity for minorities living with disabilities, and the CEO and Founder of LaToya Monique LLC, a consulting firm specializing in organizational leadership, strategic planning and health equity. She serves as a board trustee and health equity committee chair for the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York, Tri-Chair of the CNY Health Equity Task Force, a governing body member of the Healthy Alliance Social Care Network and a member of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Advisory Board at Crouse Health. LaToya holds a Bachelor of Science in health services administration and a Master of Public Health and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in organizational leadership. LaToya is a graduate of the LGS class of 2023.
Megan is an attorney and the owner of a law firm focused on sexual harassment, sexual abuse and workplace discrimination. She is deeply committed to mentoring and supporting professionals across Central New York and to making the region a better place for all. A resident of the City of Syracuse, Megan is actively involved in her community and volunteers with organizations including Sherman Park Little League, the Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Hiscock Legal Aid Society and the Central New York Women’s Bar Association. She is a recipient of the 40 Under 40 award and an alumna of the LGS class of 2024. In her spare time, Megan enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors and running.
Kelly is the CFO for Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY, where she has served for more than 25 years. In this role, she provides stewardship over the cancer center’s financial health to ensure the sustainable allocation of resources toward high-quality patient care.
Kelly earned her Bachelor of Science from Le Moyne College and her Master of Business Administration in healthcare management from SUNY Empire State University; she is also a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Plan Sponsor Professional. She has previously served on several local boards, including the governing board of St. Joseph's College of Nursing and the board of directors for the CNY Affiliate of Susan G. Komen. A graduate of the LGS class of 2022, Kelly currently serves on the LGS Finance Committee. All four board members started a three-year term on Jan. 1. For more information, visit leadershipgreatersyracuse.org.
Baldwinsville woman named HOPE Board president
Hope for Bereaved Inc. (HOPE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families grieving the loss of a loved one, recently announced the appointment of Kelly O’Neill-Rossi of Baldwinsville as president of its board of directors.
O’Neill-Rossi brings 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, development, marketing and public relations. She has most recently served as a volunteer nonprofit consultant for HOPE and has been actively involved in advancing the organization’s mission to provide compassionate bereavement support, education and resources for grieving children, adults and families in our community.
She currently serves as the foundation director at McHarrie Life Senior Community and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in communications from Brockport State College. She volunteers as a consultant to help nonprofit agencies with operational resilience and strategic planning. She also volunteers as a peer-to-peer supporter for those newly diagnosed with life-threatening diseases.
“I am deeply honored to serve as board president of Hope for Bereaved Inc.,” said O’Neill-Rossi. “For the past 47 years, HOPE has been Central New York’s only nonprofit grief center, supporting thousands of children and adults with compassion, kindness and unwavering care. I am committed to advancing HOPE’s mission and working alongside our dedicated board of directors, staff, and volunteers to ensure our programs continue to provide hope, comfort, and healing to our community.”
Under O’Neill-Rossi’s leadership, HOPE will deepen community partnerships, advance grief programs and outreach services, secure organizational sustainability, and remain the leading trusted source of support for individuals and families navigating loss.
“Kelly O’Neill-Rossi is exactly what our organization needs in this extraordinary moment. I am confident her dedication, leadership, and love for HOPE’s mission will help usher us into the next chapter,” says Kelly Ocampo, executive director at HOPE.
Local Girl Scouts earn prestigious Gold Award
Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways (GSNYPENN) recently recognized the accomplishments of its Class of 2025 Gold Award Girl Scouts, which included several local exceptional young leaders.
These scouts were awarded Girl Scouting’s highest honor at the annual Gold Award Celebration held at Drumlins in Syracuse.
The Gold Award is the highest leadership achievement in Girl Scouting and is earned by seniors and ambassadors in grades 9 through 12 who demonstrate extraordinary commitment, innovation and perseverance. From addressing mental health and environmental sustainability to advancing community well-being, their projects reflected issues that today’s young people care most deeply about.
“We’re continually inspired by the leadership of our Gold Award Girl Scouts,” said Julie Dale, GSNYPENN CEO. “Through their projects, they create real, lasting change while gaining skills and confidence to shape a better future. We’re incredibly proud of the Class of 2025 and excited to see where their leadership journeys take them next.”
Below are the GSNYPENN Class of 2025 Gold Award Girl Scouts, along with a description of the “Take Action Projects.”
Aubrey Coyle of Cicero, who also earned a Women of Distinction Scholarship for her project — “Inspiration Is All Around Us:” Inspired by a close friend’s cancer journey, Aubrey created a reflection journal to support the mental health of patients, caregivers and loved ones; led journaling workshops; and distributed the journal through cancer support organizations and online to reach a broader audience.
Kaitlin Hougland of Dewitt — “Keep Camp Hoover Beautiful:” Kaitlin educated the public about invasive zebra mussels and blue-green algae through a mural and digital resources accessed via QR code at the council’s Camp Hoover along the waterfront on Song Lake.
Sophia Randolph of Baldwinsville — “Dribbling to Better Health:” Sophia organized a free threeday camp for girls entering grades 4–6 focused on physical fitness, nutrition and mental health, led by volunteer specialists and community partners.
Aarohi Rastogi of Jamesville, who also earned the Marie Hepworth Scholarship for her project — “Health Beyond the Body:” Aarohi developed and delivered a mental health education curriculum for schools in India, teaching hundreds of students about stigma, anxiety, suicide prevention and coping strategies through global collaboration.
Rayna Reed of Jamesville, who also earned the GSNYPENN Staff Scholarship for her project —
“Middles & Mentors:” Rayna created a peer mentoring program connecting seventh-grade students with ninth-grade mentors to support academic success, organization and social connection during the transition to high school.
Lyla Rivard of DeWitt
mental impact of fast fashion by hosting educational sessions and workshops culminating in an upcycled fashion runway event showcasing repurposed clothing designs.
Award Girl Scouts, which included several local exceptional young leaders.
Mahmoud, Rosenfield named to Everson Museum of Art Board
The Everson Museum of Art (Everson) recently welcomed Gia Mahmoud and Louise Rosenfield to its board of trustees.
Rosenfield, who previously served as an honorary board member, is the namesake of Louise Café and a generous donor of the ceramic works featured throughout the café. She is a Dallas, Texas–based ceramic artist known for her functional porcelain vessels and is a nationally respected collector.
Louise creates pieces intended for daily use and is committed to sharing ceramics beyond traditional gallery settings. Her collection is featured at Louise Café, bringing pottery into public experience. An advocate for arts education, she has also supported access to the Everson through student memberships, reinforcing her belief that ceramics—and art— should be accessible, democratic, and lived with every day.
Gia is Vice President of Portfolio and Project Management at National Grid, with over 20 years of leadership experience in the energy sector. She oversees portfolio strategy, project delivery, and capital planning for electric transmission and distribution projects, managing an annual investment portfolio exceeding $2 billion. Gia has held senior roles across grid modernization, distributed energy integration, and long-term electric system strategy, helping advance reliability, resiliency, and affordability for customers and communities.
"We are thrilled to welcome a dedicated group of individuals to our board of trustees," said Elizabeth Dunbar, Director & CEO of The Everson. "Each member brings unique talents and perspectives that help us advance the Everson's mission of community engagement through art. We look forward to working together to shape the future of the museum."
SFCU announces $1m support of local communities
Sidney Federal Credit Union (SFCU) recently announced a $1 million community support initiative for 2026, “Why SFCU? 1 Million Reasons,” which will support local nonprofit organizations focused on housing, food and essential needs, education and transportation; four foundational areas that help communities thrive. From helping put a warm blanket on someone’s bed, to ensuring food is on the table, students have the tools they need to learn, and families have reliable transportation to get to work or school, each focus area represents a tangible way SFCU and its members are supporting everyday life in their communities. In addition to financial support, SFCU will partner with local organizations for hands-on community activations and employee volunteer initiatives throughout the year.
“The ‘Why SFCU? 1 Million Reasons’ initiative exists for one simple reason: our members,” said SFCU President and CEO Jim Reynolds. “Because our members choose to bank locally with SFCU, we’re able to reinvest directly into the communities they call home. This commitment is our way of saying thank you and continuing our mission of people helping people.”
For more information about the $1 million community support initiative, the organizations being supported, and how to get involved, visit sfcuonline org/1millionreasons or follow @sidneyfcu on social media.
— Upcycled Runway: Lyla addressed the environ-
Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways recently recognized the accomplishments of its Class of 2025 Gold
