Rochester Woman Online's October 2025 Edition

COVER STORY

Kim Wyman

164

HER HUSTLE

Annie M of Petite

Props N Playland

174

INSIDE A WOMAN’S MIND

ON OUR COVER TT

Kim Wyman, owner of Harv’s Harley-Davidson was photographed on location at their Kittleberg Rd location by photographer Tanya Consaul.

Dear Readers,

As we head into the holiday season, I’m beyond excited to share with you the latest edition of Rochester Woman Online—an issue filled with inspiration, empowerment, and community spirit that truly captures what our publication is all about.

Our amazing cover woman, Kim Wyman of Harv’s Harley-Davidson, is the embodiment of passion, perseverance, and legacy. Taking over her family’s business at just 20 years old, Kim has spent years not only preserving her parents’ dream but expanding it into something even greater. She’s proof that with drive and determination, women can lead with both heart and horsepower—and we couldn’t be more honored to have her grace our cover this edition.

Inside, you’ll also meet some of the powerhouse female attorneys from Faraci Lange, who are breaking barriers and setting new standards in the legal world. Plus, we’re shining a light on Sarge Mitchell, a true force for change who continues to make an incredible impact in the veteran community through his work with Combat NewsA.

We’re also introducing exciting new columns, like Eat the Cookie by Jessica Fabus Cheng—an honest, uplifting look at self-acceptance and balance that’s sure to become a reader favorite. Of course, many of your beloved recurring columns return, along with a lineup of amazing advertisers and supporters who have helped us continue to grow and thrive for over 17 years.

As always, Rochester Woman Online is about celebrating the stories that move us and the people who inspire us. Do you know someone who deserves to be featured in an upcoming issue? Or maybe you’d like to showcase your own business and connect with our audience of over 100,000 readers across all of our platforms? We’d love to hear from you—reach out today and join our growing community of women (and men) making a difference.

And don’t forget to check out all of our incredible upcoming events this holiday season—each one is an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the best of our region together.

Kelly Breuer

{ A LOOK AT OUR TEAM }

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Lisa Wagner

Kim Wyman

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charge. Please feel free to contact publisher Kelly Breuer at 585.727.9120 or you can

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KIM WYMAN

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Riding the Legacy: How Kim Wyman

Revved Up a Family Dream at Harv’s Harley-Davidson®

There are stories that start with chance, and then there are stories that start with legacy — built on the calloused hands, hard work, and heart of a family who dared to dream. For Kim Wyman, that legacy began long before she ever twisted the throttle of a Harley-Davidson®. It began with her father, Harv, and mother, Milly — two visionaries who turned a passion for motorcycles into a family business that would become one of New York’s most beloved Harley-Davidson® dealerships.

Nestled in the scenic countryside, Harv’s HarleyDavidson® is more than a dealership — it’s a destination. A place where the rumble of an engine is a familiar comfort, where customers become family, and where history lives and breathes through every bolt, photo, and ride. For over six decades, the family has been at the heart of this legendary brand, keeping the spirit of freedom alive for riders across generations.

trail with courage, grit, and vision. From turning wrenches and selling oil as a little girl to transforming a family business into an 18,000-squarefoot powerhouse and cultural hub, Kim’s journey is one of inspiration and innovation. It’s about carrying forward the past while fearlessly embracing the future — all from the same farm where it began.

And through every twist and turn, Kim has proven that the true spirit of Harley-Davidson® isn’t just about the bikes — it’s about the people, the

one of passion, perseverance, and purpose — a testament to what it truly means to grow up “life on two wheels.”

For Kim, motorcycles weren’t just a part of the family business; they were the family business. Her childhood wasn’t filled with dolls or playhouses, but with engines, chrome, and the hum of a shop bustling with riders coming and going.

passion, and the power of perseverance.

Growing Up Harley

But what makes this story truly remarkable isn’t just the legacy — it’s the woman behind the handlebars today. When Kim Wyman took over the reins at just 20 years old, she stepped into a role few women had ever held. In a male-dominated industry where resilience is as essential as horsepower, Kim blazed her own

There’s something about the low rumble of a Harley-Davidson® engine that stirs the soul — the sound of freedom, grit, and timeless Americana. For Kim Wyman, that sound has been the heartbeat of her life since before she could even walk. As the proud owner and CEO of Harv’s Harley-Davidson®, a dealership still standing proudly on the family farm where it all began, Kim’s story is

“Growing up in a family-owned Harley-Davidson® dealership was life on two wheels right from the age of 3,” Kim says with a smile. “The dealership’s first store was literally a chicken coop on the family farm. I started selling oil to customers when I was tall enough to look over the counter.” That first counter job would mark the beginning of a lifelong journey — one that would see Kim grow from a curious young girl into a trailblazing businesswoman in a male-dominated industry.

Through her teen years, Kim immersed herself in every facet of the dealership. While other kids her age might have been hanging out at the mall, Kim was learning the ins and outs of motorcycle mechanics, sales, marketing, and bookkeeping — all under the watchful eye of her mom and dad, Harv, the dealership’s namesake.

“My dad taught me how to service and assemble the motorcycles, while my mom taight me how to sell parts, accessories, and bikes, and even handle promotions and bookkeeping,” Kim recalls.

“There’s something about the low rumble of a Harley-Davidson® engine that stirs the soul — the sound of freedom, grit, and timeless Americana.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

“All of that prepared me for the unexpected — my mom’s untimely passing when I was just 20 years old.” When tragedy struck, Kim did what strong women often do — she rose to the occasion. At just 20, she stepped into her mother Milly’s management role, suddenly responsible for running the business that had been the lifeblood of her family for generations.

Finding Her Strength at 20

The year was 1980, and Kim Wyman was not only young — she was a woman in a world where few expected women to lead, especially in the motorcycle industry.

“Being female was a challenge in a ‘man’s motorcycle world,’” she admits. “But I had enough experience to hold my own.”

Hold her own she did. Kim learned quickly that leadership isn’t about age or gender — it’s about passion, resilience, and the drive to succeed. Under her management, the dealership not only survived but thrived. Less than a decade later, in 1989, she officially purchased the Harley-Davidson® franchise — right at a time when the motorcycle industry was struggling.

“1989 was a low time for the motorcycle industry overall,” Kim explains. “But Harley-Davidson had started a new ‘SuperRide’ campaign that turned things around. The 90s became the most lucrative years as a HarleyDavidson dealer.”

That combination of grit and timing —

along with a deep understanding of her customers and community — helped Kim steer Harv’s Harley-Davidson® into an era of growth that would set the stage for decades to come.

Riding Through Challenges, Building a Legacy

Over the years, Harv’s HarleyDavidson® has grown from that humble chicken coop to an 18,000-squarefoot facility complete with additional storage buildings and even a café bar. The expansion was more than just about square footage — it was about creating a space that reflected the warmth, heritage, and authenticity of the Wyman family.

“Since taking over management in 1980, the business has grown tremendously,” Kim shares. “The motorcycle industry will always have its highs and lows, but Harv’s HarleyDavidson® has sustained the challenges and stayed true to who we are.”

Part of that success lies in how Kim has managed to honor her parents’ legacy while bringing her own modern vision to life.

“The Harv’s Harley-Davidson® legacy continues with my three sons,” she says proudly. “They all grew up in the dealership, worked various positions in their teens, and today are all employed in motorsports. They’re also professional motorcycle racers — and they’ve put Harv’s HD on the map for raising some fast boys out of New York State!”

Indeed, the Wyman family’s passion

for two wheels seems to be genetic. Between the family business and the racetrack, the next generation is ensuring that the Harv’s name — and the Harley legacy — keeps roaring into the future.

A Family Museum of Memories

Step inside Harv’s Harley-Davidson®, and you’re not just entering a dealership — you’re stepping into history. Vintage photographs, racing memorabilia, and collectible treasures tell the story of a family who has lived and breathed the Harley lifestyle for generations.

“Our ’47 Harley has been in the family for over five decades,” Kim says. “It started out as a basket case in the cellar of our homestead and was restored to original condition in the 2000s.”

Today, that motorcycle sits proudly among an array of memorabilia, creating what Kim affectionately describes as a “visual museum” inside the dealership and café.

“We have many collectible and vintage items from my parents’ riding and dealership days, along with Harleys from my sons’ racing careers,” she says. “It’s a space that tells our story — not just a business, but a family journey.”

Community, Camaraderie, and Cause

One of the most defining aspects of Harv’s Harley-Davidson® is its deep connection to the community. Kim doesn’t just sell motorcycles — she builds relationships, memories, and causes that matter.

“ There are STORIES that start with chance, and then there are stories that start with LEGACY — built on the calloused hands, hard work, and heart of a FAMILY who dared to dream. ”

“The dealership’s first store was literally a chicken coop on the family farm. I started selling oil to customers when I was tall enough to look over the counter.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

“We are a riding dealership,” Kim emphasizes. “We sponsor the Wayne County Harley Owners Group, a local riding club, and we host rides and runs for fun and for causes.”

For more than a decade, Harv’s HarleyDavidson® sponsored and organized the massive “Ridin’ For A Reason” event benefiting Camp Good Days, a local nonprofit supporting children and families affected by cancer.

“Those were some of our most meaningful rides,” Kim reflects. “Now, we focus on benefits for individuals in need — it’s about community helping community.”

These events have helped transform Harv’s Harley-Davidson® into far more than a dealership — it’s a hub for riders who share the same passion for freedom, friendship, and giving back.

Empowering Women on the Open Road

When Kim took over Harv’s in the 1980s, she was one of the very few women in the country to own a HarleyDavidson® dealership. Her journey wasn’t easy, but it was groundbreaking — paving the way for many women who would follow.

“Back in 1989, I was one of the first woman-owned Harley-Davidson® dealerships,” Kim says. “Today, there are many husband-and-wife teams or women owners. The industry has evolved — women are now a strong force in so many areas: design, engineering, management, even racing.” Kim is passionate about encouraging

more women to take up riding — not just as a hobby, but as a lifestyle and a statement of empowerment.

“Women have been part of motorcycling since the beginning,” she explains. “As with any male-dominated field, women have proven that we are capable of succeeding and winning. Harv’s HD encourages women to learn to ride, and we welcome them whether they’re brand new or seasoned riders.”

Her advice to women looking to make their mark in similar industries? “Go for it!” she says without hesitation. “No, it won’t be easy. You’ll have to work harder, smarter, and longer to prove yourself. But the rewards and satisfaction of what you accomplish will be worth it.”

Staying True to the Roots

Despite the changes and growth, one thing has always remained the same — Harv’s Harley-Davidson®’s “down-home” atmosphere. In an age of corporate dealerships and flashy showrooms, Harv’s stands proudly on its family farmland, serving as both a destination and a piece of living history.

“There are big brick-and-mortar dealerships across the country, but there are still small, family-run dealerships thriving,” Kim says. “Harv’s HD is still on the family farm — we never moved to a busy highway or off the interstate. Our store is a destination dealership.”

That authenticity is part of what keeps people coming back — not just for the bikes, but for the experience.

“We host events and runs on the property with plenty of room for a good time,” Kim adds. “Milly’s HandleBar Café even hosts weddings and private parties in a beautiful country setting. It’s the kind of place where everyone feels like family.”

Looking Toward the Future

As Harv’s Harley-Davidson® approaches its 65th Anniversary in 2027, Kim and her team are already planning a celebration worthy of the dealership’s storied legacy.

“Our goals are to continue to outsell our competitors, grow our Harv’s HD team, and continue serving our loyal customers while welcoming the next generation of Harley riders — male and female,” she says. “2027 will be a big milestone, and we’re already in the planning stages. We can’t wait to share it with everyone.”

A Legacy Fueled by Passion

From the chicken coop beginnings on a family farm to one of New York’s most respected Harley-Davidson® dealerships, the story of Harv’s HarleyDavidson® is the story of perseverance, family, and fierce determination. It’s a reminder that great businesses aren’t built overnight — they’re built over decades, by people who pour their hearts into what they do.

For Kim Wyman, that’s exactly what she’s done — and continues to do. She’s not just running a business; she’s preserving a legacy, empowering women, and inspiring a community of riders who live for the open road. As she looks out over the dealership

“Being female was a challenge in a ‘man’s motorcycle world,’” she admits. “But I had enough experience to hold my own.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

her parents started and her sons now help carry forward, Kim’s pride is unmistakable.

“This isn’t just a job — it’s a way of life,” she says. “Harv’s Harley-Davidson® has always been about family, freedom, and the love of riding. That’s something that will never change.”

The Heart Behind the Handlebars

At the heart of Harv’s Harley-Davidson® isn’t just the thunder of engines or the gleam of polished chrome — it’s the people. Kim Wyman has built something more than a successful dealership; she’s built a family of riders, dreamers, and doers who understand that Harley-Davidson® is more than a brand — it’s a brotherhood and sisterhood that transcends generations.

“Every customer who walks through our doors becomes part of our story,” Kim says. “Some have been riding with us for decades. Others are just starting out. But the bond we share is the same — the love for the ride and the freedom it represents.”

That sense of community extends beyond business hours. Kim often takes time to greet riders personally, to listen to their stories, and to celebrate their milestones — whether it’s a first bike, a retirement ride, or a crosscountry adventure. She knows that every Harley-Davidson® represents a story of courage, independence, and self-expression.

“For so many people, riding a Harley is more than transportation,” she reflects. “It’s therapy. It’s empowerment. It’s

their time to breathe, to think, and to just be.”

It’s this understanding — the human connection behind the machine — that has made Harv’s Harley-Davidson® such a beloved landmark for riders near and far.

Women Who Ride, Women Who Lead

Kim’s influence reaches far beyond the walls of her dealership. She’s become an unofficial mentor and role model for women in motorcycling — and for women in business. Her story has inspired countless others who’ve faced similar challenges breaking through barriers in industries that were once almost entirely male-dominated.

“When I first started, there weren’t many women dealers — you could count us on one hand,” she recalls. “Now, seeing more women take ownership roles, step into leadership positions, or even just get out there and ride — it’s incredible. It’s progress.”

That progress is something Kim has actively fostered. She has worked with local organizations and rider education programs to encourage women to get licensed, feel confident, and experience the joy of riding safely.

“I’ve seen women come into the shop saying they could never do it — that riding wasn’t for them,” Kim says with a grin. “Then a few months later, they roll up on their new Harley with the biggest smile. That’s what it’s all about. Seeing that transformation — that spark — it’s contagious.”

For Kim, empowering women to ride isn’t just about selling bikes; it’s about igniting independence, building confidence, and helping others experience the freedom that riding has given her.

Rolling Into the Next Generation

As Kim looks toward the future, she’s filled with pride — not just for how far the business has come, but for how it continues to evolve with each new generation. Her sons — all professional motorcycle racers — are carving their own paths in the world of motorsports, proudly carrying the family name wherever the road or racetrack takes them.

“They’ve taken what started here and brought it to a whole new level,” Kim says. “Seeing them out there racing, representing Harv’s, it’s an incredible feeling. It’s proof that what my parents built, and what I’ve worked to continue, is still inspiring others to chase their dreams — on and off the road.”

The next phase of Harv’s HarleyDavidson® isn’t just about maintaining tradition — it’s about expanding it. Kim envisions continuing to grow the dealership’s community outreach, creating more events that blend riding, philanthropy, and fun, and building deeper connections with local riders and organizations.

She’s also passionate about embracing the next generation of Harley enthusiasts — those who may be discovering the brand for the first time. “The Harley-Davidson® community is

“Our ’47 Harley has been in the family for over five decades,” Kim says. “It started out as a basket case in the cellar of our homestead and was restored to original condition in the 2000s.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

part of something bigger.”

A Legacy That Lives On

As the dealership approaches its 65th anniversary, the story of Harv’s Harley-Davidson® stands as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. From a chicken coop on a family farm to a full-service dealership with national recognition, Harv’s isn’t just a business — it’s a living legacy.

And through every triumph and challenge, every race and ride, one constant remains: Kim Wyman’s unwavering dedication to the dream her parents began.

“This dealership is my family’s story,”

That’s what makes it special. That’s what keeps me going.”

For Kim, the future isn’t about slowing down — it’s about riding forward, full throttle, into whatever comes next. With every rev of the engine, every smile from a customer, and every memory made along the way, the legacy of Harv’s Harley-Davidson® continues to grow — fueled by heart, horsepower, and an unbreakable love for the ride.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the motorcycles.

It’s about the moments, the memories, and the people who make the journey worthwhile.

Just like the woman who keeps it all running.

Follow Harv’s Harley-Davidson®

Keep up with all the Happenings at Harv’s! — events, rides, and celebrations — by following them on social media or visiting their destination dealership on the original family farm. Whether you’re a lifelong rider or just Harley-curious, you’ll find that at Harv’s, everyone is welcome — because here, it’s not just about motorcycles.

It’s about legacy, loyalty, and life on two wheels.

Are you concerned about yourself or someone else?

Are you grieving the loss of someone to suicide? Do you want to learn more about suicide prevention?

Who We Are

Partners for Suicide Prevention is committed to ensuring that community members of all ages have access to accurate suicide prevention resources to help themselves and/or a loved one. As a multi-partner coalition, facilitated by the Mental Health Association of Rochester, we promote a collaborative approach to raise awareness on suicide prevention, intervention, post-vention, and recovery.

We are dedicated to providing hope and resilience through community collaboration.

Visit our Website:

suicidepreventioncoalition.org

a Donation: Join the Coalition:

vway@mharochester.org

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WOMAN WHO INSPIRES } { WOMEN WHO INSPIRE } YOU ARE ENOUGH.

HADLEY LUNDBACK

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Hadley Lundback’s path to becoming one of the leading voices in personal injury and complex litigation law is rooted in a deep commitment to justice and advocacy. Before attending law school, Lundback worked at a public interest law firm in New York City, where she witnessed firsthand the transformative power of the legal system in shaping society and protecting marginalized communities. That early exposure to the impact of litigation on real lives inspired her to pursue a career centered on helping others. Although her journey eventually led her to private practice, the transition to personal injury law was a natural one—allowing her to continue championing the rights of individuals and ensuring that those harmed by negligence or injustice receive the support and legal representation they deserve.

Since joining Faraci Lange, LLP, Lundback has become a respected leader known for her dedication to client advocacy, her collaborative approach to litigation, and her trailblazing role as the firm’s first female partner. Her early work in environmental toxic tort litigation helped shape her meticulous, evidencedriven approach to case preparation and her appreciation for the power of teamwork. Under her leadership, the firm continues to thrive on its founding principle—putting clients first—while also embracing the evolving dynamics of law, technology, and mentorship.

Lundback’s impact extends well beyond the courtroom. She is a passionate advocate for women in law, mentoring the next generation of female attorneys and fostering a culture of collaboration

and empowerment within the firm. Her emphasis on empathy, compassion, and active listening not only enhances client relationships but also sets a powerful example of leadership grounded in integrity and respect. Whether she is guiding a complex litigation case, mentoring a young attorney, or engaging in community service, Lundback embodies the values that have defined Faraci Lange since 1968— commitment, excellence, and justice.

Looking ahead, she envisions a future where the firm continues to build on its legacy while embracing innovation. Recognizing the profound ways technology, including artificial intelligence, is reshaping the legal field, Lundback is focused on ensuring these tools are used responsibly to enhance the firm’s capabilities without compromising the human connection that lies at the heart of effective advocacy. Her dedication to mentoring, community engagement, and client-centered practice ensures that Faraci Lange will not only remain a leader in personal injury and complex litigation but will also continue to inspire positive change within the legal profession and the broader community.

Both of you have built impressive careers in personal injury law. What initially drew you to the legal profession, and specifically to personal injury litigation?

reforms, promote justice and protect fundamental rights for marginalized communities and went to law school to become a public interest lawyer. When circumstances required me to go into private practice, personal injury litigation was a natural transition. Like public interest law, personal injury law focuses on advocating for the rights of individuals who have been harmed and seeking justice through legal action.

Hadley, your early work in environmental toxic tort litigation was groundbreaking. How has that experience influenced the way you now lead major complex litigation cases at Faraci Lange?

My early work in environmental toxic tort litigation taught me the importance of meticulous case analysis and preparation and thorough scientific understanding, which are crucial in complex litigation. I also learned the value of collaboration, teamwork and civility with adversaries. These are the skills and values that are core to our approach to litigating all our cases at Faraci Lange.

Women in Leadership & Partnership

In The Beautiful Cornhill Neighborhood

Before law school, I worked at a public interest law firm in New York City that litigated cases in federal courts throughout the country focused on challenging unjust laws and policies. I saw firsthand how setting legal precedent in the courts could lead to broader societal

What does it mean to you both to be female partners at such a well-respected firm, and how have you helped pave the way for other women in law?

In 2013, I became the first female partner at Faraci Lange, which is an honor. I was fortunate to have excellent mentorship and the support of my partners, who were all men at that time. Being in a leadership role has allowed me to mentor young female

{ WOMEN WHO INSPIRE }

“I want to spend the next decade mentoring younger lawyers in the courtroom and empowering them to lead the firm into the future.”

attorneys and create opportunities for them to develop their skills and grow in their careers. Faraci Lange now has three female partners and several stellar female associates.

What unique perspectives do you feel women bring to personal injury and complex litigation law?

Women often emphasize empathy, collaboration, and active listening, which enable them to connect with clients and understand their needs. This compassionate approach leads to effective and meaningful advocacy.

How do you balance the demands of high-stakes litigation with mentoring younger women attorneys coming up in the field?

Balancing the demands of high-stakes litigation with mentoring younger women attorneys requires careful time management, prioritization, and a commitment to both the legal work and fostering the next generation of female leaders in the law. The younger women attorneys I have mentored and worked with over the years are incredibly talented lawyers whose work product, insight and perspective who have made significant contributions to cases we litigate, which means that I get back from these women as much I give.

Faraci Lange & Client Focus

Faraci Lange has a legacy of helping people since 1968. How do you continue to carry forward the firm’s founding principle of putting clients first?

Putting the client first is and always has been a core value at Faraci Lange.

Like those partners before me, I strive to lead by example by actively listening to and understanding our clients’ needs, maintaining transparency, and consistently delivering the best possible outcomes.

What do you find most rewarding about working with clients during what is often the most difficult time in their lives?

Working with clients during the most difficult moments of their lives is both a profound responsibility and a deeply rewarding experience. I enjoy providing compassionate support and helping clients navigate complex and emotionally challenging situations. Knowing that my efforts can ease their burdens and bring some measure of relief motivates me every day.

Your firm is consistently recognized in Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers. What do you believe sets Faraci Lange apart from other law firms in New York? The people. We have an incredible team of smart, hardworking, dedicated and compassionate advocates who put the clients first always.

Challenges & Advocacy

The cases you take on—whether medical malpractice, product liability, or data breaches—are often highly complex. What are some of the biggest challenges you face, and how do you overcome them?

One of the most exciting and challenging things about what is do is that with each case we are often learning something new whether it be a new area of medicine, fate and transport of a chemical in

the environment, roadway design or mechanical engineering. We gain knowledge through exhaustive research, engaging the best experts in the field and collaboration with colleagues at the firm and nationwide.

Both of you have served in leadership roles within legal organizations and bar associations. How important is advocacy outside the courtroom to the work you do?

Advocacy outside the courtroom is critical to safeguarding victims’ rights, preserving the constitutional right to a jury trial and strengthening the civil justice system.

Can you share a case or experience that has had a profound impact on you personally or professionally?

I represented a child who was burned by an over-the-counter product. His teenage, Hispanic mother took him to the hospital for treatment and was immediately arrested for child abuse without the required abuse medical evaluation. She sat in jail for five months refusing to take a plea while her incredible public defender worked tirelessly to eventually get her case dismissed. Unfortunately, the State and the County refused to remove her name from child abuse registry even though she was cleared of all charges. This left her ineligible for certain jobs and even to volunteer in her son’s classroom. After her son’s personal injury case was resolved, we filed an action against the State and County and a year and a half later with the help of a compassionate and principled judge, her name was finally removed from the registry. I saw how the system could so

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“Balancing the demands of high-stakes litigation with mentoring younger women attorneys requires careful time management, prioritization, and a commitment to both the legal work and fostering the next generation of female leaders in the law.”

quickly and incorrectly judge a person and profoundly impact her life. I also learned that with persistence and tireless advocacy the judicial system could right a wrong. This client’s strength and determination continue to inspire me 15 years later.

Personal & Professional Growth

How do you stay grounded and take care of yourselves while working in such an emotionally and mentally demanding profession?

I set aside time to connect with my loved ones on a regular basis. These relationships provide me comfort and strength in both challenging and joyful times. I also manage stress by trying to do something active in nature most days.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in law, particularly in personal injury or complex litigation?

I would advise young women seeking a career in law to determine their core values and look for work and opportunities with professional and community organizations that align with those values. Seek out mentors, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and others.

Looking ahead, what are your longterm goals for yourselves and for Faraci Lange as you continue to shape the future of the firm?

It is important to me that Faraci Lange is poised to continue to provide topnotch legal representation for injured people in our community long after I am gone by preserving the firm’s core values while embracing change and

new ideas. I want to spend the next decade mentoring younger lawyers in the courtroom and empowering them to lead the firm into the future.

Community & Impact

Both of you are deeply involved in community work and professional organizations. Why is community service and giving back such an important part of your careers?

All of benefit from organizations that serve our community. It is important that we not just benefit, but that give back to ensure that others also have the opportunity to benefit.

Faraci Lange has offices in both Rochester and Buffalo—how does serving multiple regions shape your perspective on the needs of different communities?

Faraci Lange actually serves all of upstate New York from our located in Rochester and Buffalo. Having office in both locations in western New York allows us to effectively understand and best serve these and the surrounding areas.

Firm Culture & Mentorship

As partners, how do you foster a culture of collaboration and support within Faraci Lange for both attorneys and staff?

The partners have an open-door policy and make it clear to everyone that they always welcome to come to us with anything. We also have a formal mentorship program where a young attorney is assigned a partner to meet with on a regular basis to discuss cases and career development.

What role has mentorship played in your careers, and how do you pay it forward to the next generation of women in law?

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my career. I had the good fortune of having two incredible mentors that taught me to litigate while providing guidance, support, and encouragement that have helped me navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Having experienced the power of mentorship firsthand, I am committed to paying it forward by actively mentoring and empowering the next generation of women in law. By providing opportunities and sharing my insights and experiences, I hope to inspire other women to believe in their potential, set career goals and achieve them.

Vision for the Future

The legal field is constantly evolving— how do you see personal injury and complex litigation changing over the next decade, and what role do you hope to play in shaping that future?

It is clear that AI is going to have a profound effect on the practice of law in the coming years. In some ways, it already has. It is important that we embrace this change but use it effectively and safely to ensure that we are best serving our clients. I look forward to working with my partners and the younger attorneys at our firm in collaboration with our staff to explore ways to responsibly use this technology to enhance the quality of our legal representation and continue to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients.

KRISTIN MERRICK { WOMEN WHO INSPIRE }

Empowering Justice and Elevating Women in Law

In a profession often defined by precision, perseverance, and advocacy, the women partners of Faraci Lange, LLP have built careers rooted in compassion, integrity, and a fierce dedication to justice. As leaders in personal injury and complex litigation, they’ve not only earned the respect of their peers but have also paved new paths for women in law— balancing high-stakes cases with mentorship, leadership, and community impact.

Founded in 1968, Faraci Lange has long been recognized as one of the most respected personal injury firms in New York State, known for its unwavering commitment to putting clients first. Today, that legacy continues to evolve under a new generation of strong, talented female partners who are redefining what it means to lead with purpose and empathy in the legal field.

What initially drew you to the legal profession, and specifically to personal injury litigation?

My interest in the legal profession, and personal injury litigation in particular, came from a desire to give a voice to individuals at a time when they need help the most. I knew I wanted to be the kind of attorney who makes a positive difference in people’s lives within our community.

Kristin, your career began as an

What does it mean to you both to be female partners at such a well-respected firm, and how have you helped pave the way for other women in law?

Being a female partner at Faraci Lange, LLP, and working in the field of personal injury is truly an honor. It reflects not only my personal journey but also the progress that women have made in the legal profession, particularly in personal injury litigation. I strive to pave the way for other women in law, just as the women before me paved my way. I am intentional about mentoring and empowering women, setting a positive example, and helping them create a better path for future generations.

In this insightful conversation, we sit down with the women leading the way at Faraci Lange to discuss their journeys into personal injury law, the challenges and triumphs of being female partners in a prestigious firm, and their shared vision for the future of advocacy, mentorship, and justice.

Both of you have built impressive careers in personal injury law.

Assistant District Attorney—how did that prosecutorial experience shape the way you approach your work today at Faraci Lange?

My experience as a prosecutor provided invaluable trial experience. I learned how to prepare clients for the litigation process, develop cases and trial strategies, and successfully negotiate and litigate a case from start to verdict.

Women in Leadership & Partnership

What unique perspectives do you feel women bring to personal injury and complex litigation law?

Women contribute a valuable and effective perspective to litigation as advocates. With our understanding of clients’ injuries and experiences through a female lens, we can articulate and describe certain losses more accurately.

How do you balance the demands of high-stakes litigation with mentoring younger women attorneys coming up in the field?

Mentoring younger attorneys gives me a sense of satisfaction that is distinct from the demands of litigation and my case load. Often, this mentoring

{ WOMAN WHO INSPIRES }

“Putting clients first is one of our firm’s core values. Whenever we are making decisions, we rely on our core values to guide us.”

experience offers a balance and a different kind of fulfillment, which allows me to continue tackling the challenging work of litigation.

Faraci Lange & Client Focus

Faraci Lange has a legacy of helping people since 1968. How do you continue to carry forward the firm’s founding principle of putting clients first?

Putting clients first is one of our firm’s core values. Whenever we are making decisions, we rely on our core values to guide us.

What do you find most rewarding about working with clients during what is often the most difficult time in their lives?

Being able to advocate and help people in the Rochester community at a time when they need help navigating a difficult situation, and often for the first time.

Your firm is consistently recognized in Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers. What do you believe sets Faraci Lange apart from other law firms in New York?

We have been a law firm based in Rochester for over 55 years, proudly serving the local community. I believe our success can be attributed to our client-focused approach, core values, effective litigation strategies, and commitment to the Rochester community.

Challenges & Advocacy

The cases you take on—whether medical malpractice, product liability, or data breaches—are often highly complex. What are some of the biggest challenges you face, and how do you overcome them? No two cases are ever identical, and legal issues can evolve over time. Successfully identifying and managing each case requires a collaborative approach. At our firm, we hold meetings to discuss cases and issues, enabling us to benefit from the insights and expertise of all our attorneys.

Both of you have served in leadership roles within legal organizations and bar associations. How important is advocacy outside the courtroom to the work you do?

Advocacy outside of the courtroom is crucial. While we can provide advice and advocate for our clients based on the current laws governing their cases, it is also important to work toward changing these laws to better protect individuals who have been wrongfully injured. This effort is an ongoing process.

Can you share a case or experience that has had a profound impact on you personally or professionally?

Witnessing the resilience and kindness that emerge from people enduring some of the most challenging times in their lives is always impactful, both personally and professionally. This quality is something I deeply admire and serves as a reminder of why I chose this career.

Personal & Professional Growth

How do you stay grounded and take care of yourselves while working in such an emotionally and mentally demanding profession?

For me, the most important thing I can do to take care of myself is to ensure that I keep my community close by spending time with my family and friends and connecting with those closest to me.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in law, particularly in personal injury or complex litigation?

Become an active member of a bar association, engage with fellow women in the profession, and seek out one or two mentors who can effectively guide you on your journey.

Looking ahead, what are your longterm goals for yourselves and for Faraci Lange as you continue to shape the future of the firm?

In the coming years, Faraci Lange will transition to becoming predominantly female-owned. My long-term goals for our firm’s success include leveraging our successful history while incorporating more female perspectives. We will also adapt to the ever-changing landscape of litigation by implementing technology, which will allow us to continue growing and evolving.

Community & Impact

Both of you are deeply involved in community work and professional organizations. Why is community service and giving back such an

{ WOMAN WHO INSPIRES }

“Women contribute a valuable and effective perspective to litigation as advocates. With our understanding of clients’ injuries and experiences through a female lens, we can articulate and describe certain losses more accurately.”

important part of your careers?

Community service and giving back to our community are as essential as supporting and mentoring new attorneys. I have benefited from the opportunities created by those who came before me, and I feel a strong responsibility to give back to our community in the same ways that I was supported.

Faraci Lange has offices in both Rochester and Buffalo—how does serving multiple regions shape your perspective on the needs of different communities?

There are many similarities and differences between Rochester and Buffalo; serving both communities helps us serve each more effectively.

Firm Culture & Mentorship

As partners, how do you foster a culture

of collaboration and support within Faraci Lange for both attorneys and staff?

Our approach to each client’s case is truly collaborative. Each case is assigned a partner or attorney, along with a legal assistant and a paralegal. This ensures that everyone involved is familiar with the client and their needs. Each team member plays a vital role in managing the case effectively.

What role has mentorship played in your careers, and how do you pay it forward to the next generation of women in law?

Mentorship has significantly influenced my career, and I believe I wouldn’t be a partner at Faraci Lange without it. As a young partner, I vividly remember the challenges I faced while climbing the professional ladder. I make it a priority to offer the same type of mentorship,

information, and guidance that I found helpful to the next generation of women.

Vision for the Future

The legal field is constantly evolving— how do you see personal injury and complex litigation changing over the next decade, and what role do you hope to play in shaping that future?

One of the most significant changes I foresee in personal injury and complex litigation over the next decade is the increased use of technology in the legal process. I aim to shape our future by preserving the values and practices that have sustained Faraci Lange’s success since 1968. Our commitment to client focus and personal attention for each client will remain at the forefront, while we leverage technology as a tool to enhance our capabilities.

SARGE MITCHELL { COMBAT NEWS }

**Sgt. Mitchell, as an Iraq War combat veteran, what experiences from your time in service inspired you to create Combat News?**

My time in the Iraq War as a combat veteran instilled in me a deep appreciation for the unbreakable bonds formed in service—the battle buddy system and the strength of a cohesive unit. These experiences highlighted how shared sacrifices and triumphs create authentic connections that clinical settings often can’t fully replicate. Seeing firsthand the unique complexities of military life, including the triumphs and challenges of reintegration, inspired me to found Combat News as a platform to harness those shared experiences. It’s about turning individual veteran journeys into a collective mission: supporting one another, rebuilding lives, and fostering a resilient community where veterans aren’t just patients but partners in advocacy and healing.

experience” lens—drawing from my own service to cut through bureaucracy and corporate noise, ensuring stories and advocacy reflect the real sacrifices, needs, and triumphs of veterans. This shapes Combat News’ vision as a raw, by-vets-for-vets hub that empowers our voices, builds unity, and drives actionable change, always prioritizing the ground truth over polished narratives.

and advocacy by emphasizing peerto-peer connections over traditional clinical or institutional paths—creating spaces like Combat News where veterans can rediscover purpose, share unvarnished stories, and tackle reintegration hurdles head-on. It’s about forging new “units” in the civilian world, using raw dialogue to advocate for better resources, reduce stigma, and ensure no veteran fights alone.

**You call yourself the Chief Perspective Officer—what does that title mean to you, and how does it shape the vision of Combat News?**

As the Founder and Chief Perspective Officer of Combat News, this title represents my commitment to providing an unfiltered, veterancentered viewpoint on issues that matter most to our community. It means leading with the “lived

**How has your transition from military life to civilian life shaped the way you approach journalism and advocacy for veterans?**

The transition from military to civilian life was a profound reintegration challenge, revealing gaps in support systems and the isolation many veterans face when “getting it” from someone who’s been there is rare. This shaped my approach to journalism

**What role has being a husband, father, and even a chef played in giving you balance and perspective outside of the military community?**

Being a husband, father, and Chef has been my anchor for balance, reminding me that service extends to family and everyday joys beyond the uniform. Raising my son— helping with his fundraisers and sports or attending band concerts—grounds me in civilian normalcy and fuels my drive to build a better world for the next generation. My father, an Army vet himself, is my inspiration to be the best man/father/husband I can be—his unwavering support inspires me to blend military grit with family love, keeping me motivated without burnout.

Building Combat News

**What gap in mainstream media coverage did you see that pushed you to create Combat News?**

“Mainstream

media often glosses over the raw realities of veteran life—focusing on broad narratives while ignoring the day-to-day struggles like reintegration, funding rumors, and community-specific needs.”

Mainstream media often glosses over the raw realities of veteran life— focusing on broad narratives while ignoring the day-to-day struggles like reintegration, funding rumors, and community-specific needs. I saw a void where veterans’ authentic voices were drowned out by corporate spin and incomplete stories, especially on local issues like Rochester’s Veteran resources or national policy impacts. Combat News fills this by amplifying unfiltered veteran perspectives, from golf therapy events to peer support, ensuring our community gets the full picture and actionable insights we deserve.

**The tagline says “No fluff. No corporate spin.” Why was it important for you to build a raw, unfiltered voice for veterans?**

After years of seeing veteran stories sanitized or sidelined by agendas, I knew we needed a platform free from fluff and spin—one that delivers straight talk from those who’ve served. This tagline embodies my commitment to raw authenticity: sharing triumphs like golf tournaments for therapy alongside tough talks on isolation or policy barriers. It’s crucial because veterans “get it” best from each other; an unfiltered voice rebuilds trust, sparks real dialogue, and turns passive consumers into active advocates for our community.

**What types of stories do you prioritize covering, and how do you decide what matters most to your audience?**

I prioritize stories that hit home for veterans: peer support programs, local events like stand-downs or golf therapy, mental health fundraisers (e.g., Erock Foundation), policy rumors affecting funding, and community wins like school tax savings. Decisions come from direct input—listening in our Open Forum spaces, scanning veteran feedback on challenges like mobility aids or reintegration, and focusing on what builds unity and drives change. If it empowers bootson-the-ground voices and cuts red tape, it matters most.

**How has the veteran community responded to Combat News since you launched it?**

The response has been overwhelmingly positive—veterans and supporters show up weekly for our forums, sharing stories from Memorial Day reflections to policy rants, with gratitude for the safe space it provides. We’ve built a tight-knit network in Rochester and beyond, from golf tourney shoutouts to collective wins like tax savings, proving it’s resonating as a vital lifeline. Your love and shares keep the momentum; it’s a testament to how much we crave that “battle buddy” connection post-service.

Advocacy & Veteran Issues

**As a Veteran Peer-to-Peer Specialist, what are some of the biggest challenges you see veterans facing after service today?**

The biggest challenges include reintegration isolation, where civilian

life feels alien without that “unit” bond; mental health stigmas that deter seeking help beyond clinical walls; and navigating bureaucracy for basics like mobility aids, funding, or home mods. Rumors of policy shifts add anxiety, while family strains—from fixed incomes to holidays without support—compound it all. Peer programs bridge this by offering that “gets it” connection, rediscovering purpose through shared stories.

**How does Combat News highlight issues like mental health, transition support, or veteran rights differently than mainstream outlets?**

Unlike mainstream outlets’ surfacelevel coverage, Combat News dives raw: live forums unpacking Memorial Day grief/Survivors Guilt or talking about events for addiction/mental health; spotlights on local therapies like golf, fishing; and direct calls on rights like funding transparency. We center veteran-led narratives—no spin—just honest shares that foster belonging, cut isolation, and push systemic fixes, making complex issues relatable and actionable.

**From your perspective, what is the most urgent policy issue affecting veterans right now that doesn’t get enough attention?**

Reintegration funding and peer support shortfalls—rumors of VA budget games and cuts to programs fly under the radar, yet they directly hit daily life, from mobility-home modifications to community events and programs. It’s urgent because

“My time in the Iraq War as a combat veteran instilled in me a deep appreciation for the unbreakable bonds formed in service—the battle buddy system and the strength of a cohesive unit.” {

without stable, veteran-led bridges, isolation spirals into bigger crises like mental health declines. We need transparency and boosts here to honor sacrifices properly.

**How do you balance being a nonpartisan platform while still addressing politically charged issues that deeply affect veterans?**

We stay nonpartisan by focusing on veteran impacts over party lines—e.g., calling out funding “smokescreens” or policy rumors without endorsements, uniting us as “one team, one fight.” Charged issues like VA budgets or

rights get airtime in forums where boots-on-ground voices lead, fostering solutions above divides. It’s about shared mission: veterans first, politics second.

Podcast & Community Connection

**You and Bill Adams co-host the Veterans Open Forum podcast—how did that partnership come together, and what makes it unique?**

Bill Adams, a fellow vet (Marine) with deep community ties and an impressive background in advocacy, joined as co-host after we bonded over

shared goals: amplifying veteran voices amid political “pay-to-play” noise. Our partnership sparked organically through networking—My street-smart insights complement his generational perspective, making the forum a powerhouse duo. What makes it unique? It’s live, unscripted veteran huddles—no gatekeepers, just raw unity turning individual battles into collective wins.

**The podcast airs live on Wednesdays —what kind of conversations and guests have made the biggest impact so far?**

“The transition from military to civilian life was a profound reintegration challenge, revealing gaps in support systems and the isolation many veterans face when “getting it” from someone who’s been there is rare.”

Wednesdays at 7pm EST bring gamechangers: heartfelt Memorial Day shares on loss and honor; policy deep-dives on funding rumors with elected officials; and guest vets opening up on addiction recovery via Erock Foundation. We are everything by veterans for veterans!Biggest impacts? Vulnerable stories reducing isolation, like family strains or reintegration triumphs—these spark calls to action and rallies, proving dialogue heals and unites.

**Why do you think it’s important to provide a judgment-free, open space for veterans to talk about

real issues in their own words?**

In service, we thrived on trust— no judgment, just mission focus. Post-service, that fades, breeding isolation. Our forum recreates it: a sanctuary for unfiltered truths on grief, bureaucracy, or wins, where voices converge into unstoppable advocacy. It’s vital because it rebuilds belonging, cuts red tape via collective knowledge, and reminds us—we’re still a unit, turning pain into purpose.

Future

Vision & Legacy

**Where do you hope to see Combat

News five years from now, and what do you want it to become for the veteran community?**

In five years, I envision Combat News as the go-to veteran ecosystem: a national network of live forums, expanded storytelling on therapies/ funding, and policy wins like sustained peer programs. It’ll be the unbreakable “battle buddy” hub—empowering thousands with resources, reducing isolation through events/scholarships, and ensuring every vet feels seen, supported, and victorious. Legacy? A stronger, united community where service never ends, just evolves.

{ EAT THE COOKIE } EAT THE COOKIE

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY JESSICA FABUS CHENG I PHOTOS BY KATRINA LYNNE PORTRAIT ART

Have you ever caught yourself chasing perfection? Waiting for the “right time” to do the “right thing” - only to wonder later what it all was for?

Well, I get it. We’ve all been there, trying to do everything “right,” yet secretly craving more meaning and more joy.

I’ll never forget sitting in my nursing school classroom when a guest speaker shared the moment that changed his life and impacted mine: at just 27-years-old, after an unexpected stroke at an office party, he realized what haunted him most wasn’t the fear of dying, it was that he had turned down a simple cookie, making that ironic sacrifice “for his health.” His advice? Eat the cookie. That moment stuck with me, and it’s the heartbeat of my new monthly column, “Eat the Cookie.” It’s all about finding joy, choosing grace, and living with intention. So let’s start with this question - what “cookie” are you saying no to right now?

Eat the Cookie: Why Choosing Joy Is the Healthiest Decision You’ll Ever Make

It’s amazing how often we turn down little joys, almost without thinking: dessert at dinner, skipping a girls’ night out, putting off a dreamthinking you were being “disciplined,” only to regret some portion of it later. As women, we often live under impossible standards: to always be healthy, productive, responsible, and frankly, perfect. But sometimes, the thing we need most is the opposite. My first encounter with this truth

came in nursing school, when a guest speaker’s story reshaped the way I saw joy, grace, and the way we live our days. His advice? Eat the cookie.

The Lesson That Changed Everything

The speaker was just 27 years old. At an annual office party, a co-worker offered him a cookie from a fresh batch. He declined, saying, “I’m trying to be healthy.” A short while later, at the same party, he suffered a sudden, massive stroke.

As he was being airlifted to the hospital, you might expect he thought about family, faith, or unfinished dreams. Instead, he admitted: “I should’ve eaten the cookie.”

His point was clear. In the end, what matters isn’t strict discipline or flawless choices. What matters is joy! It’s in the little moments we say yes to, even when logic or guilt tells us no.

The Science of Choosing Joy

Research in positive psychology shows that joy and gratitude aren’t luxuries. They’re linked to lower stress, improved immunity, and stronger relationships. Neuroscience even reveals that when we savor small pleasures, we release dopamine, the “feel good” chemical that boosts motivation and focus. Choosing joy isn’t indulgence - it’s resilience. When we practice joy regularly, we create mental strength that carries us through the harder seasons of life.

Why We Keep Saying No

So why do we turn down life’s cookies?

• Perfection Pressure: We want to make the “right” choice, even if it costs us joy.

• Comparison Culture: Social media fuels the myth that everyone else is healthier, fitter, or more disciplined.

• Fear of Judgment: We worry what others will think if we prioritize enjoyment over restraint.

It’s so ironic that saying no to small joys rarely makes us healthier - it makes us emptier.

How to Practice “Eating the Cookie” Daily

“Eat the Cookie” isn’t about dessert. It’s a mindset shift:

• Joy: Give yourself permission to delight in small, seemingly insignificant pleasures.

• Consistency: Choose joy regularly, not just on holidays or when you “earn it.” Do it just because.

• Grace: Release the guilt that comes with believing you have to deserve joy first.

Here are a few ways to put it into practice:

1. Notice Your Cookies: What small joys are you turning down out of habit?

2. Give Yourself Grace: A cookie, a skipped workout, or an unplanned

“Have you ever caught yourself chasing perfection? Waiting for the “right time” to do the

afternoon off won’t derail your progress. In fact, it may just give you the reset and reframe you need to refuel your spirit.

3. Build Joy Into Routine: Schedule something joyful each week. A walk with a friend, fresh flowers for your desk, or yes - the cookie!

Conclusion + Call-to-Action

The man’s story in my classroom years ago wasn’t really about cookies. It was about choosing joy while you can. Life is fragile, unpredictable, and too short to miss the sweetness right in front of you.

So here’s my challenge: What is the cookie in your life you’ve been saying no to? Maybe it’s a new opportunity, an afternoon nap, or something as

simple as chocolate chip cookies. This week, say yes. Eat the cookie!

If this resonated with you, check out my new blog at www.eatthecookie. blog which is a companion to this column so you don’t miss future posts and we stay connected! Let’s keep exploring together how to live with joy, consistency, and grace!

CANDIDATES FOR A BETTER IRONDEQUOIT GOVERNMENT

Lisa Barrett

What inspired each of you to run for office in Irondequoit, and how did your team come together?

My inspiration came from God and my love for serving Him. When I was asked to consider running for town board, without hesitation, I said that I would. I knew that God opened this door for me to allow me to serve people in a greater way beyond my capacity. Normally, I would not put myself in a situation outside of my comfort zone, but I know that God will provide me with all that I need to be successful just like he has in my career.

Anthony and Mike were approached by members of the Irondequoit Republican Committee, interviewed and nominated at different times than me.

Ultimately, God brought us together!

What personal or professional experiences shaped your decision to step into local government and advocate for change?

people. This experience has equipped me with the ability to recognize inefficient spending habits, wisdom to ask questions and knowledge to make changes that will benefit the taxpayer.

How do your individual strengths complement one another as a team running for office?

Keeping in mind that we just met 7 months ago, I believe we have more similar strengths individually that unit us as a team. We have similar professional

comfortable talking to people.

I bring the women’s perspective to the table. Anthony and Mike are very respectful of this.

Platform & Priorities

Your platform emphasizes constitutional protections, accountability, and transparency — why are these principles so central to your campaign? Because the residents of Irondequoit haven’t had these principles practiced for many years. We want to bring back trustworthy government that is working for the town residents.

Living in Irondequoit for 45 years, I remember when the town was thriving and bustling with a variety of restaurants and retail stores. I would love to see that restored in our town. This is an initiative that I would work hard to achieve.

Professionally, I have worked with governmental agencies for 35 years managing Public Works projects. I see the inefficiencies in governmental spending that are not beneficial to the

backgrounds. We are running for town government to serve the residents, not for political or self-serving gain. We value honesty, openness, and integrity. We are not afraid to fight for what is right. We don’t back down from difficult work. We are respectful of others’ opinions. We are kind to people and each other. The one individual strength that stands out for me about Anthony and Mike, is that they are more outgoing than I am. There is an ease about them when approaching people. I watch, listen, and am learning from them to be more

These principles are part of who we are as individuals so it’s natural for us to live by them. It speaks to our character.

How do you plan to increase government transparency for Irondequoit residents in practical, day-to-day ways? The residents will have access to our email addresses, cell numbers, and social media and we will respond. People want to know that they are heard, and their concerns are valued and addressed. We won’t ignore them, even if we don’t have the answers they are looking for.

Accountability in government is a major focus of your team. Can you give an example of how you would apply this value in your first year if elected?

Accountability in effective leadership can be achieved by setting clear expectations, leading by example,

“It

starts with us. As the Town Board, we must work together regardless of our association with political parties because this is not about politics. It’s about doing the best job we can for

all of us who live in Irondequoit. ”

owning one’s mistakes, follow through on commitments, provide feedback, be proactive to address issues, recognition, and reward. This builds trust in relationships.

I use these principles in my professional career and in my leadership role in the ministry I serve in at my church. I would continue to apply these principles as your Town Board member.

You’ve already engaged residents regarding short-term rental concerns. What did you learn from those conversations, and how will your proposed plan address both homeowners’ and neighbors’ needs?

Short-Term & Long-Term Plans

What are your team’s top three shortterm goals to tackle within the first year of being in office? Cut taxes.

Assure property tax assessments are done legally.

Reestablish leaf pick up.

Business development - revitalization of East Ridge Road corridor.

Looking ahead, what long-term changes do you want to see in Irondequoit’s governance over the next 5–10 years? That the Board works together in unity. That public opinion is heard and valued. That the residents are involved in tax dollar spending decisions. To be proactive rather than rely on citizen complaints to initiate action.

How do you balance the immediate needs of residents with planning for

sustainable growth and smarter policies in the future?

Community & Connection

How will you continue engaging residents to ensure their voices are heard and reflected in your decisionmaking process?

Besides the obvious methods of social media, email, town board and workshop meetings, I feel the best way to continue engaging the residents is by building relationships through transparency, accessibility, actively listening, meeting them where they are at. I’m “old school.” I much prefer to interact with people face to face. It’s much more personal.

How do you plan to bridge divides and bring together residents with differing perspectives on local issues?

It starts with us. As the Town Board, we must work together regardless of our association with political parties because this is not about politics. It’s about doing the best job we can for all of us who live in Irondequoit. This should be the common goal for every board member. We must openly show respect for one another even if we don’t always agree. “Without respect, dissension grows,” creating division. You can’t bring people together if there is a lack of respect within the leadership.

A foundation of mutual respect encourages innovation and builds loyalty because it shows that diverse perspectives are valued. By approaching conflict with empathy and a commitment to understanding someone’s point of view, it fosters working together toward a mutually beneficial resolution.

Objectives & Vision

If elected, what specific measurable outcomes do you hope to achieve that residents can hold you accountable for? We stand by our promises to make the changes that are needed for their benefit. To our commitment of transparency, honesty, and integrity. To our commitment to serve the community. To being respectful of everyone’s opinions.

What sets your team apart from others running for office, and why do you feel your vision for Irondequoit is the right one at this time?

We are committed to making the needed changes. We are fresh, innovated, motivated, and eager to restore Irondequoit to a town that is desirable and affordable to live in, raise a family in, enjoy the amenities, and know that the residents and community are valued.

How do you envision Irondequoit five years from now if your team’s objectives and policies are put into action?

More affordable for young families, seniors, and everyone in between. Safer community. Thriving due to business and community development. Revitalization of the East Ridge Road corridor.

What message would you like to share directly with the women and families of Irondequoit about your commitment to building a better community?

I raised my family in Irondequoit during the time that it was affordable, our streets and homes were safe, and where you didn’t always have to go outside of the town to enjoy a nice meal or shop retail. Now my adult children and grandchildren live in Irondequoit, and I would love to have them experience the same. I want them

{ VOICES OF VICTORY }

“I think my innate ability to serve and lead was my driving force that compelled me to make the commitment.” - Michael Voight

and all the residents to call Irondequoit their home, their community, not just a house they live in.

Through this journey, I have talked to many people who say they love Irondequoit but can’t afford to live here anymore. It opened my eyes to the value that families place on living in our town. I have a servant’s heart, a gift that God has blessed me with, and He’s equipped me to do it well for His glory. Because of this, I always strive to do my best in all I do, especially when I make commitments to people. Do I fail sometimes, of course I do but I get right back up, apologize and try again.

Michael Voight

What inspired each of you to run for office in Irondequoit, and how did your team come together?

Running for office in its political sense was never attractive to me, however the inspiration to run for office to have the ability in making a difference came as a calling. I always said, “if I ever get asked to run for office, I would accept.” Well this past January I was asked. I do not have any political experience, just a lot of passion and fight to do what is right. I feel public service is my duty, and as a citizen first, know that I can be the people’s advocate to bring productive change impacting all of Irondequoit residents that we so desperately need. An opportunity to create the community we are proud to live in and raise our family in. Watching citizens’ rights be violated, or simply hearing about folks ignored by our current board also sealed my decision in accepting the invitation to run for office. Our team came together predicated in perfect alignment with

similar sentiment that we could not sit on the sidelines any longer and watch the corruption continue to spiral out of control. We are putting forth the greatest grass roots effort Irondequoit and Monroe County has ever seen. The old guard is crumbling so to speak as our message is resonating with 99% of people we speak to.

What personal or professional experiences shaped your decision to step into local government and advocate for change?

I think my innate ability to serve and lead was my driving force that compelled me to make the commitment. I was not looking for a resume builder, but rather an opportunity to make a difference. Next, my experience in leading and managing people of organizations in various capacities, both in corporate America and now as a Business Owner has given me the confidence to make decisions and execute quickly. In addition it has helped me to build and maintain working relationships with customers, employees, and suppliers through clear communication, collaboration, and professionalism. All of which I will be able to use to move our town forward as an advocate for change. Leadership isn’t always popular, but I have a can-do attitude, and always work to find the best solution. I look forward to the opportunity in demonstrating a fair, equitable, citizen first approach as a member of the Irondequoit town board. Third, I have a young family and felt for their sake it was my responsibility to do the courageous thing, taking ownership of playing a role in the future of Irondequoit and ultimately their future as long as we remain in this wonderful town. Set an example to my family for

the things that matter most.

Anthony Costanza

What inspired each of you to run for office in Irondequoit, and how did your team come together?

The motivation to become involved in Irondequoit’s political landscape primarily arose from firsthand experiences during my brief tenure as the Town of Irondequoit Assessor. Within just six weeks of assuming the role, I uncovered a series of illegal actions, errors, and violations of citizen rights. These issues disproportionately impacted Irondequoit’s most vulnerable residents, while often benefiting those who were already affluent. Despite submitting a thorough report detailing these concerns, my efforts were met with indifference from leadership. Witnessing the suffering endured by community members at the hands of current officials, I felt compelled to act rather than remain idle.

The Candidates for a Better Irondequoit Government team was formed out of a shared commitment to address the aforementioned problems and bring meaningful change to our town. Each member brings a strong desire, relevant experience, and unwavering drive to launch a grassroots movement that challenges the status quo. Our unified belief is that Irondequoit’s future depends on efficient, pragmatic, and common-sense governance. By prioritizing customer service and focusing on the needs of the people, we aim to create a better path forward for Irondequoit, its residents, and the commercial community.

“In

addition, my 24-year military career provided countless life lessons, most notably the value of selfless service and the understanding that accepting the status quo leads to stagnation.”

What personal or professional experiences shaped your decision to step into local government and advocate for change?

My journey toward local government and the pursuit of meaningful change is rooted in both personal and professional experiences. My upbringing instilled in me the importance of supporting those who are unable to help themselves. In addition, my 24-year military career provided countless life lessons, most notably the value of selfless service and the understanding that accepting the status quo leads to stagnation. These experiences collectively shaped my commitment to place service before self and to continually strive for progress within our community.

How do your individual strengths complement one another as a team running for office?

Our team’s effectiveness derives from the distinct yet complementary strengths each member brings to the table. Lisa excels in enabling local government infrastructure projects, providing valuable insight and expertise in public sector development. Mike contributes his perspective as a successful entrepreneur and businessman, offering innovative approaches to problem-solving. My own background as a military Commander, with experience in challenging established norms and achieving results both in the boardroom and on the battlefield, adds a strategic and disciplined dimension to our team. Although our careers span diverse fields, we are united by a shared vision to implement change, encourage fresh ideas, and employ outside-the-box thinking to revitalize a town government that has remained largely stagnant.

Platform & Priorities

Your platform emphasizes constitutional protections, accountability, and transparency — why are these principles so central to your campaign?

Our campaign centers on constitutional protections, accountability, and transparency because we have personally encountered government failures in these areas and have spoken directly with thousands of residents who share these concerns. Examples include unfair increased taxation due to assessment violations, denial of information under the NYS Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), unequal enforcement of codes and laws, and targeting of outspoken citizens.

How do you plan to increase government transparency for Irondequoit residents in practical, day-to-day ways?

Enhancing government transparency for Irondequoit residents can be achieved through several practical steps. First, we will improve the Town website with features accessible to residents. Second, we will require Town officials to provide lawful reasons for denying FOIL requests, preventing denials without merit. Third, we will catalog and track resident complaints by category through a centralized point of contact, allowing for repeated concerns to be addressed via think tanks, studies, and collaborative groups involving both town officials and citizens.

Accountability in government is a major focus of your team. Can you give an example of how you would apply this value in your first year if elected?

Accountability encompasses a wide swath of ideals to include, but not

limited to, fiscal responsibility, time management, and the proper use of Town assets. Accountability begins with the Supervisor and extends to every Town employee. Every decision and action, from top leadership to part-time workers, should be directly tied to providing service or support to residents. True leader accountability requires making difficult choices—even unpopular ones—and honest communication about challenges and progress, rather than always presenting a rosy facade.

You’ve already engaged residents regarding short-term rental concerns. What did you learn from those conversations, and how will your proposed plan address both homeowners’ and neighbors’ needs?

Our discussions/visits with STR opponents showed that boardroom decisions based on anecdotes miss the reality on the ground. Seeing the negative impact of a neighboring STR firsthand made it clear that the government should protect affected individuals when consequences are severe, even if they’re in the minority. Our plan would disallow grandfathered STRs. Allowing something that was once clearly disallowed by town code and making it acceptable via the stroke of a pen is not how we want to govern.

Short-Term & Long-Term Plans

What are your team’s top three shortterm goals to tackle within the first year of being in office?

a. Distribute a comprehensive townwide survey to all residents, ensuring a clear understanding of their primary concerns. The survey results will be published and will guide our focus to

“Living

in Irondequoit for 45 years, I remember when the town was thriving and bustling with a variety of restaurants and retail stores. I would love to see that restored in our town.” - Lisa Barrett

address the issues that matter most to residents.

b. Foster a culture of unity between residents and the town government. From the Supervisor down, we must recognize our responsibility to the people who entrust us with public service and fund our positions. Servant leadership will be central to our approach.

c. Review contracting and spending processes with a thorough cradle-tograve analysis to identify opportunities for greater efficiency and economies of scale. Our commitment is to deliver these improvements so that taxes will either stabilize or go down.

Looking ahead, what long-term changes do you want to see in Irondequoit’s governance over the next 5–10 years?

Our long-term goals focus on stability and resident-centered policies, regardless of political affiliation. We aim for leadership continuity to ensure meaningful change and visible benefits for the community. We advocate for open opportunities to those with innovative ideas and a desire to contribute. Ending entrenched political practices will usher in a new era of governance, fostering creativity and prosperity for residents and businesses alike. The era of the “good ole boys club” will end.

How do you balance the immediate needs of residents with planning for sustainable growth and smarter policies in the future?

We believe balancing current resident needs with future growth requires

strategic planning and clearly defined short-, medium-, and long-term goals This approach ensures that immediate concerns are addressed while laying the groundwork for lasting improvements and smarter policies.

Community & Connection

How will you continue engaging residents to ensure their voices are heard and reflected in your decisionmaking process?

The townwide survey that we intend to distribute immediately after taking office is designed to be much more than a one-time endeavor. Our plan is to administer this survey on a biannual basis, thereby establishing a consistent feedback loop with our residents. This approach will allow us to continuously gather input, monitor shifts in community priorities, and ensure that our actions remain closely aligned with the evolving needs and concerns of the people.

In addition to the survey, we are committed to promoting open dialogue by relaxing the existing rules regarding public comment at town hall meetings. By doing so, we aim to create an environment where residents feel empowered to exercise their right to free speech and share their perspectives without unnecessary restrictions. These initiatives collectively underscore our dedication to transparency, responsiveness, and meaningful community engagement.

Objectives & Vision

What sets your team apart from others running for office, and why do

you feel your vision for Irondequoit is the right one at this time?

Our team stands out because we actively listen to residents by going door to door with genuine energy. Instead of engaging in negative tactics like our opponents, we highlight our positive vision: Time for Change. Voters are rejecting long-term incumbents, high taxes, and a lack of transparency, wanting accountability and new ideas.

What message would you like to share directly with the women and families of Irondequoit about your commitment to building a better community?

To the women and families of Irondequoit, my message is rooted in personal experience and a heartfelt decision. I chose to return to Irondequoit to raise my son, who was six years old at the time, because I wanted him to benefit from the same wonderful childhood that I experienced here. Irondequoit is unique in Monroe County for its diversity—socially, economically, geographically, and ethnically. This diversity offers children invaluable lifelong skills, as they grow up and attend school alongside peers from a wide range of backgrounds. The environment in Irondequoit fosters understanding, resilience, and a sense of community in all who call it home.

JILL MULCAHY

“ENTERING Adirondack Park”

Everyone has a story, and I believe that every chapter is yours to create. As I start the final year of my fifties and approach turning sixty years old, it means a lot to share my story. A dear friend of mine, Jessica Fernandes, who was recently profiled, inspired me to join the incredible ROC area women who have showcased their amazing stories. She encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and spread positivity. Jess has been my BFF (best fitness friend) for almost 20 years! I have found that every decade brings new growth and greater joy. I know my story isn’t over yet—in fact, I’m excited for the chapters yet to come! Imagine your story, what reflections would you highlight?

It seems our lives are the sum of our choices. Every day we face two options: you can dwell on what’s wrong, or you can embrace what’s right. Choose gratitude. Choose joy. Choose to see the beauty in life’s small moments—and when you do, life becomes richer than you ever imagined.

Celebrate every day of your life. Ground in the here and how, be present. Take the time to enjoy the little things, for one day you will look back and realize they were the big things. Realize that everything is changing: your family, your relationships with friends, life changes so you got to change with the times. Express your affection to your loved ones. And remember to always “call your momma”!

Career & Professional Journey

PHOTOS BY KURT GARDNER PHOTOGRAPHY

You began working with The Rochester Funds at just 16 years old. What do you remember most about that first job in the mailroom?

I remember taking the bus downtown to their Rochester office as I wasn’t old enough to drive.

The Rochester Funds was a tiny startup money management firm, founded by two University of Rochester Simon Business School graduates: Ron Fielding and Mike Rosen. They put me in charge of their postage meter in the mailroom, lol! It was a small office located at 183 East Main Street, Suite 942 with a handful of employees. I would end up being their 7 th employee, one of the original members of the team. It was exciting but nerve-racking because everything was new, brand new. It seemed they spoke another language when discussing investments and using business terms that weren’t taught in high school. I was stepping into a whole new world. The job opportunity was prompted by my shorthand teacher who suggested I gain experience in the business world. She made an introduction and off I went. Early on I learned the value of networking. From day one, I was introduced to something new every single day—and I loved it!

What motivated you to stay with the same company for 35 years-a rarity today?

It was easy to stay with The Rochester Funds. I never really thought about leaving. The firm grew rapidly, and so did the opportunities. Quickly, I was promoted to receptionist. It was all so interesting and very fast-paced. My

responsibilities expanded with every passing year. At inception, the firm managed assets totaling $650,000. By the end of 1984 their assets increased to $25 million. This was the year I got my driver’s license and graduated from high school.

After finishing high school I started my college journey, it was a long one. I attended part-time classes in the evenings starting at Monroe Community College earning my associate’s degree in business, then on to a bachelor’s degree in finance from Rochester Institute of Technology and finally completing my MBA at the University of Rochester’s Simon Business School. I was very busy working during the day and attending college in the evenings. On the weekends I also waited tables at The Princess Restaurant, where my mom was the hostess. Most often I left parties early while my friends stayed out to enjoy being young adults.

As the firm grew, in 1985 we moved from our tiny offices on East Main Street to a house on Park Avenue. My office was literally a closet in the front foyer where we took the doors off. Then in 1993 we moved to the Linden Oaks office park as managed assets surpassed $2 billion where we acquired existing office space. Then in 1995 we built out our own office space in one of their new buildings and assets under management had grown to $3 billion. I was responsible for planning and organizing each of the two office relocations. We celebrated our milestones in style and with great pride. Our hard work was getting traction and starting to pay off.

{ HUSTLE & HEART }

“Believe that you can. Be curious. Put in the work, be open to new opportunities. Maintain a strong work ethic and a willingness to try. Don’t be afraid to fail.”

In 1998 we reached $5 billion and in 2004 soared to $15 billion. And, by 2006, the OppenheimerFunds’ Rochester team managed twenty municipal bond funds with assets under management of more than $33 billion with 35 employees. In 2019 the firm entered another new era, having been purchased from Massachusetts Mutual by Invesco.

How did your role evolve from receptionist to Vice President of Investment Operations & Administration?

I took on every opportunity that came my way. I moved from receptionist to the Fulfillment Department, eventually managing that team responsible for mailing marketing materials and premiums to prospective and existing customers. I then joined Human Resources to recruit key employees, then moved into Marketing where I became the AVP, Director of Marketing Information, analyzing sales trends and opportunities. I was fascinated by the marketing messaging and collaterals. I especially enjoyed sitting across the desk from marketing extraordinaire, Mike Rosen. The activities were unconventional. We glued actual dimes to shareholder letters to represent our monthly dividend. Soon I became VP, Territory Sales Manager, traveling to Long Island to work with high-networth clients. After my son was born, I wanted less travel; so I pitched a new position to senior leadership—Strategic Development Manager—which allowed me to work more closely with sales and marketing while staying in Rochester. My last role was created for me. I saw a

need and again pitched my idea to the Division Head and the position of Senior Manager of Investment Operations & Administration role became a reality. I worked closely with the portfolio and credit teams managing the day-to-day non- investment operations, freeing senior leaders to focus on revenue generation. Every day was different! Some days were challenging, some exhilarating—but always fulfilling. We worked long and full days and were extremely proud of our results serving our shareholders. We managed award-winning municipal bond mutual funds that were top performers and leaders for decades. It was demanding, highly regulated work—but we were proud of what we accomplished. The Rochester Funds were sold twice; first to Wall Street based OppenheimerFunds, then to the global firm, Invesco.

Today, I maintain friendships across the map with former coworkers who reside in Rochester, Atlanta, La Jolla, Kiawah Island, Ireland, and Florida. Sadly, some have passed, but those friendships remain an important part of my story.

What were some of the pivotal moments in your career that helped shape who you are professionally?

 Serving as transition officer when we were acquired in 1996 by Wall Street based OppenheimerFunds, working closely with their CEO to blend departments and employees. Visiting the original World Trade Center complex in Lower Manhattan shortly before terrorist attacks destroyed the Twin Towers on 9/11/01.

 Planning the firm’s Ryder Cup event—

covering every detail for 700 clients—and literally falling asleep in the bleachers after Europe won the tournament.

 Working alongside two incredibly talented mentors and leaders who became family to me. As well as working with many other exceptional coworkers.

 Obtaining my MBA from a top-ranked business school.

What did you learn from working alongside leaders like Ron Fielding and Mike Rosen?

The value of teamwork. They taught me how to be professional and set goals. I was a sponge absorbing everything that came my way. They were excellent mentors, leaders and coaches who encouraged me to solve problems creatively, to think outside the box, and to value unique ideas.

I learned the importance of recognizing and appreciating employees at all levels. They taught me to celebrate wins—big and small—and to believe that “it’s not about what’s probable, it’s about what’s possible.” Our corporate colors were hot pink and bright orange because they stood out—just like our company culture and results. We created a Monopoly board game, entitled Muniopoly. I learned life skills. I learned investment terminology, strategies and applications.

Invest in yourself, invest early and often. Get financially savvy.

It’s been said that “hours and days pass slowly, but years pass quickly”. As I look back fondly on my 35 years, I recall my

{ HUSTLE & HEART }

“It’s been said that “hours and days pass slowly, but years pass quickly”.”

mentors making their departures. In 1998, original partner, Mike Rosen completed his years at OppenheimerFunds to pursue his culinary dream moving to the west coast. Michael partnered with Bravo’s Top Chef, Richard Blais and today owns and operates the highly acclaimed Juniper & Ivy, voted “Best of the Best Fancy” restaurant in San Diego, California. He also owns the fun and indulgent restaurant chain called The Crack Shack originally in Little Italy and since have expanded to several locations in Southern California and Nevada. The establishments have received accolades including Critic’s Top Pick and Reader’s Top Pick from San Diego Magazine.

Then in 2009, Ron Fielding retired leaving his responsibilities as leader of the Rochester office to his trusted younger colleague, Dan Loughran. Dan led the team to continued success before his own retirement in 2016. Today, Ron is enjoying time with his wife, Susan, on Kiawah Island.

Dan is enjoying his time as a grandfather. I will always be grateful to Dan for allowing me to work at home in the afternoons to get my son off the bus. Times were different then and remote work wasn’t common.

It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to work alongside these leaders. I’m so proud to have been part of the #1, award winning municipal bond fund manager in the country to watch them go from humble beginnings to great success and be part of that journey. Who would’ve thought this journey was possible.

How did earning your Executive MBA from the Simon Business School shape your leadership style or goals?

Earning my Executive MBA taught me to appreciate the education and certification required to offer services in the financial industry. It demonstrated the power of teamwork and the value of diverse opinions and experiences that offer unique and valuable insight. It was a demanding industry where my confidence grew and so did my skill set. Today my husband and son refer to me sometimes as “corporate”, a nickname I guess they created because I grew up in the corporate environment which shaped me and my tendencies.

The Ryder Cup event in 1995 was a major highlight-can you share more about managing such a large-scale event while still balancing your fulltime responsibilities?

Hosting the 31 st Ryder Cup Matches in 1995 was unforgettable! It was also intense and demanding! We sponsored a corporate tent on Oak Hill’s East Course. Over six days we hosted more than 700 financial advisors from all over, mostly New York State with events at the George Eastman Museum, our offices at Linden Oaks, and at the built justin-time Fielding residence in Pittsford. It was an “All hands-on deck” event. We ran shuttle buses all around town transporting clients from hotels to Oak Hill Country Club to special events and back. We rented walkie talkies and wore customized Rochester Funds/Ryder Cup apparel. We managed everything from ticket distribution to meals to transportation and entertainment. We even hosted representatives from MassMutual, our soon-to-be parent

company. Lots of work went into making this an epic event. Our small team did an amazing job and pulled it off brilliantly. At end of September, New York is once again hosting the 2025 or the 45 th Ryder Cup Matches at the Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale. I’ll be happily watching the tournament from the comfort of my home! And there’s more good news on the golf scene, Rochester’s Oak Hill Country Club in Pittsford will host the 2035 PGA Championship.

What did it feel like to be part of an award-winning team that managed over $33 billion in assets and earned national recognition?

It was wonderful! I had found my place! It was an extraordinary run! I’m proud to have been the seventh employee of such a remarkably talented team. Proud of the hard work, dedication and cohesive team that made The Rochester Funds a consistent award winner over the 30+ years. But all good things come to an end. In 2019 the company was sold a second time to global firm, Invesco. Rochester’s assets under management totaled $23 billion. They acquired 2,000 employees then released 2,000 employees, me included. I was just shy two years from my planned retirement age of 55. Little did we know that COVID was just around the corner in a few months.

Personal Growth & Reflection

What qualities do you think helped you rise through the ranks in such a competitive industry?

Believe that you can. Be curious. Put in the work, be open to new opportunities. Maintain a strong work ethic and a

{ HUSTLE & HEART }

“Some days were challenging, some exhilarating—but always fulfilling. We worked long and full days and were extremely proud of our results serving our shareholders.”

willingness to try. Don’t be afraid to fail. Recognize that this too shall pass, for good and for bad. Follow through on your thoughts and ideas, don’t just talk about it. Take the shot! I respected and appreciated every opportunity offered to me. The environment was supportive and encouraging. The relationships were long-lasting. In fact, today I remain in touch with many of my coworkers. The Rochester employees are my chosen family. I am adopted and was brought into a broken family that wasn’t stable. This came with feelings of abandonment, insecurities and trust issues. Through many years of therapy, I learned to accept my emotional history, allow my feelings to pass through and to love myself. I learned to tolerate the turbulence. Both of my adopted parents have been deceased for many years now. Today I have a small circle of friends chosen as family. Their support has been my foundation.

How did you balance work, education, and personal life over three decadesespecially as a wife and mother?

With a lot of heart and perseverance. I met my husband, Jason, one evening at a local Webster bar, Froggy’s (formerly MacGregors Grill & Tap Room and today Bar-Bill East) while we were both out seeing local favorite and best area band, Uncle Plum. Music quite literally brought us together. Jason served as a Marine and spent 21 years with the NYS Police giving to both his country and community. During his time as a Trooper he worked rotating shifts including lots of weekends and holidays so we had to be creative with family time. I kept strict boundaries at work to keep balanced—rarely working

evenings or weekends so I could be there for my son.

Family came first and always will. Their love and support mean everything to me. My most important role has always been as a wife and mother; the greatest blessings of my life. I never let work overshadow that. Some of my most challenging times were waiting up for Jason to come home safely after working a night shift, feeling grateful and blessed every time he made it out of the city in one piece. We made the necessary sacrifices for each of the three of us to prosper and grow.

What were your biggest challenges you faced during your career and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge for me was the fast pace. To keep up with the pace I had to work extremely hard. I have to admit, my head used to hurt from thinking so hard! I learned quickly to be organized and deliberate with my time. I became an excellent planner and wore many hats.

I was fortunate to be surrounded by respect, opportunity, and encouragement from day one.

In a male-dominated financial sector, what advice would you give to other women navigating similar spaces? Stay true to yourself, speak up, and show up. Work hard but make space for fun. Don’t stay on the sidelines, get in the game and play! Take intelligent risks. Challenge yourself and have faithful courage. Never mistake the difficult for the impossible. Your present circumstances don’t determine where

you go they merely determine where you start! Dig deep for patience and always believe you can. Develop a support network and mentors.

Life After Retirement & New Adventures

You now split time between Rochester and the Adirondacks-what inspired the move to Old Forge?

The Adirondack Mountains have always been in my life. As a child, I frequently visited Old Forge to snowmobile. I remember the trails were as wide as roads and plentiful. We snowmobiled to pitstops like the Red Dog Tavern and Daikers to eat, play pool, shuffle board, pinball and warm up. So naturally, I introduced my husband to the Adirondacks, and he started climbing the 46 peaks and now is the Chief of Police for the Town of Webb (Old Forge). After we had our son, during every summer for the next 15 years we rented a cabin at the Old Forge Camping Resort. Then in 2019 we rented a cabin on Big Moose Lake and when driving back we learned about our good friends who had recently bought a place on Third Lake. We realized then that we too wanted to have our own place in the Adirondacks so we called a realtor.

She was terrific and showed us a property on White Lake. We remember having driven up north and getting a glimpse of White Lake.along our route. We always thought it looked incredible.

When we visited the property on White Lake and the boathouse directly across from Breezy Point—God winked, and we knew immediately it was meant for

{ HUSTLE & HEART }

“Early on I learned the value of networking. From day one, I was introduced to something new every single day—and I loved it!”

us. The White Lake community has embraced us and have quickly become our special friends. In fact, photo credit to the madly talented and awesome Kurt and Grey Gardner and lovely, Ximena! These photos were taken on the Moose River early morning at 6 am.

So, as I enter the Adirondack Park, my family and I have already shared many notable times together at Camp Breezy! The change of the seasons each are magical in their own way. We like to run the many trails, downhill ski at McCauley Mountain, snowshoe and ice fish on Little Long Lake, golf at Woodgate Pines and Thendara Golf Club, paddle our kayaks and canoe, fat tire bike, mountain climb and of course boat and jet ski on enchanting White Lake. There’s nothing like summer sunrises on the dock, snowy campfires at the lean-to, and impromptu gatherings with our neighbors. White Lake is a real treasure!

What’s it like transitioning from corporate executive to “Chief’s Wife” in a small, tight- knit mountain town? It’s cool! The pace has changed and feels good! Although I do miss the business suits. I enjoy my flexible schedule and being my own boss. The freedom to choose my daily activities is terrific! At my age, I’ve learned to “Let Them” like Mel Robbins shared. I’m settling into wisdom where I don’t worry so much about what others think. Jason and I have always been better together. His role as Chief of Police has been an exciting new chapter for the three of us.

Together we navigate day by day his new role. I’m proud to walk beside him as he

shares his knowledge and experience with the community and serves the residents and tourists. It’s taken me far out of my comfort zone, but I’m enjoying this chapter. We thought carefully about the position, and I fully supported it. I knew it was right for him! The Old Forge community has been welcoming and supportive to us both.

Funny story from my early workdays. I once printed thousands of letters from our CEO to be mailed to our clients. But instead of Chief, I mistakenly printed Chef. I was incredibly upset and brought it to the attention of my manager. It all worked out fine, but man was I rattled. It had a long-lasting impression, and I’ve laughed about it ever since.

What are you most looking forward to in this next chapter of life-personally and professionally?

Personally, as I move into this new chapter, I’m thrilled to be getting closer to the things I want to be doing. Exploring and experiencing life that I didn’t have time for in my earlier years. I recently joined a golf league for the first time after loving the game of golf since I can remember.

I tried outdoor, winter paddle tennis too! I’m excited to embrace small-town life, connect with new friends, and continue putting the pieces of our family story together. My son is finishing college down south and he has built a strong circle of friends,and he too loves ADK as much as we do. We are building a life there filled with hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing, boating—and yes, sharing space with the bears, the beloved loons, deer and even moose! I’m

happy to focus on being a wife, mother, and a great friend to others and to myself. My boys are my world! I thank them for their love and support in everything I do. I’m looking forward to living in the moment, seeking adventure, embracing the outdoors, and enjoying life “one more time” the feeling of joy and freedom in the magic of north country. Professionally, I’m enjoying paying it forward. Drawing on my wise energy, best practices and lessons learned.

Have you thought about mentoring young women entering the workforce or writing more about your journey? I would absolutely mentor young women entering the workforce and while times are changing there are still core values that can be shared. Core values stand the test of time. Yes, I’d love to share those lessons. I’m not much of a writer, but you never know. I try to constantly learn by listening to podcasts and sharing them with my friends who are probably sick of me sending them.

My advice to young women is to appreciate the people in your life both personally and professionally. Don’t take them for granted. Partner with someone who you love deeply and loves you back deeply. Someone who is loyal and your best friend. One who supports you and brings out the best in you while sharing laughter and respect through life’s ups and downs. One who believes in you and values you. Also, gather with girlfriends who lift you up and show interest in you and care about your opinions and feelings. Gather your girlfriends to make memories and support each other. Moisturize everywhere and often, LOL. Remember to make your bed every day.

{ HUSTLE & HEART }

“It seems our lives are the sum of our choices. Every day we face two options: you can dwell on what’s wrong, or you can embrace what’s right. Choose gratitude.”

Get your shine on and sparkle brightly! Hydrate, eat real food and compete with yourself, not others. Surround yourself with people that push you to be better. No drama, jealousy or mess. Just higher goals, good vibes and positive energy. Partner with your gynecologist and menopause doctor early on and study, educate yourself to embrace the aging process. I have a love hate relationship with aging; there are many pros and cons enjoying the more compassionate and clearer version of me. Remember: attitude is a choice, happiness is a choice, optimism is a choice, kindness is a choice, giving is a choice, respect is a choice, whatever choice you make makes you choose wisely.

How has your identity shifted in retirement and what does success look like to you now?

It is true that your identity changes as you shift from full-time employee and mom to a semi- retired woman. Different things matter as you leave the workplace and become an empty nester.

Your priorities change. After COVID I opened an LLC and managed real estate. I also contracted with the senior team at the Jewish Community Center. Today I work part-time at the Eastside Y in their Health and Wellness Center providing one-on-one fitness training. It’s very rewarding to see members utilizing their membership to stive for better fitness and health. Their core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and connection easily aligned with mine. Retirement has been a transition, but a good one. I’m focused on staying active, connecting with nature, subscribing to life by leaning into my faith and spirituality

and overall health. Life moves fast and I want to enjoy every moment. I am grateful to have my husband and son. They are my foundation and motivation, my world. I stay grounded and am blessed to have a circle of lovely ladies! I value them! They are kind, compassionate, dedicated to their families, hardworking, intelligent, beautiful, accomplished, inspiring and hilarious! So grateful for this crazy group.

If you could summarize your life’s journey so far in one sentence, what would it be?

Talent sets the stage, but hard work steals the show. Love your God, love your family and love your country boldly.

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BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Can you tell us what inspired the creation of the Incellderm Ritual Experience and how it connects to Riman Skincare’s overall philosophy?

The Incellderm Ritual Experience was inspired by the idea that skincare should be more than just applying products — it should be a mindful journey of self-care that nurtures both skin and confidence. Riman Skincare wanted to move away from the quickfix mindset often seen in the beauty industry and instead emphasize long-term skin health through consistent, effective routines.

This ritual connects to Riman’s overall philosophy by reflecting the brand’s commitment to sciencebacked innovation, highquality natural ingredients, and holistic care. Rather than treating skincare as a surface-level routine, the Ritual Experience highlights the importance of layering treatments in a way that works synergistically with the skin’s natural processes. It embodies Riman’s belief that beauty is best achieved when you respect the skin’s health, balance, and resilience — helping people not just look better, but feel better in their own skin.

Incellderm Ritual Experience is designed as a complete journey for the skin. Each step is intentionally layered to work in harmony — from deep hydration to skin regeneration — creating long-term improvements rather than temporary results. It’s not just about applying products, it’s about engaging in a mindful process that strengthens, protects, and revitalizes the skin over time.

What makes Incellderm products

through volcanic rock that contains 12 essential minerals unlike regular water.

Advanced Delivery Systems: Employing nano-liposomal technology to encapsulate active ingredients, enhancing their penetration into deeper skin layers for improved absorption and effectiveness.

Comprehensive Ingredient Profiles: Incorporating a blend of peptides, niacinamide, adenosine, collagen, and hyaluronic acid to address multiple skin concerns simultaneously.

stand out in terms of ingredients and formulation compared to other luxury skincare brands?

Unique

Ingredients & Formulation

The ritual is often described as a “skincare journey.” How is it different from a typical skincare routine?

A typical skincare routine often focuses on quick fixes or single products, but the

Incellderm distinguishes itself through: Proprietary Actives: Utilizing exclusive ingredients like Giant BYoungPool, a premium variant of Centella Asiatica, cultivated through patented methods to ensure higher antioxidant content and efficacy and the Jeju Lava Energy Water, a mineral-rich water filtered

Technology & Efficacy

Liposomal Technology: Incellderm’s microfluidized liposomes ensure that active ingredients are delivered efficiently, enhancing skin hydration, elasticity, and overall complexion.

Dermatology-Inspired Formulations: The brand’s products are developed with a focus on skin health, integrating scientific research to support skin regeneration and barrier repair.

Clean Beauty Commitment

Ingredient Transparency: Incellderm emphasizes the use of natural ingredients, avoiding parabens, artificial fragrances, and harsh chemicals, aligning with clean beauty standards.

How does the Incellderm Ritual Experience support skin health on a deeper level, beyond surface results?

{ IN THE SPOTLIGHT }

“Science and technology are at the heart of Incellderm’s approach, especially when it comes to cellular rejuvenation.”

The Incellderm Ritual Experience supports skin health on a deeper level by addressing the underlying needs of the skin, not just surface appearance. Its multi-step approach combines hydration, barrier repair, and cellular regeneration using advanced actives like peptides, niacinamide, and antioxidants. The products work synergistically to strengthen the skin’s natural defenses, reduce inflammation, and enhance resilience over time. Rather than offering temporary glow, the Ritual fosters lasting improvements in texture, elasticity, and overall skin health, making the skin stronger and more balanced from within.

What role does science and technology play in developing Incellderm products, particularly with cellular rejuvenation?

Science and technology are at the heart of Incellderm’s approach, especially when it comes to cellular rejuvenation. The brand uses advanced delivery systems like nano-liposomal technology to ensure that active ingredients penetrate deep into the skin layers where they can stimulate repair and regeneration at the cellular level. Ingredients such as peptides, growth factors, and antioxidants are carefully formulated to support collagen production, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance cellular turnover. This scientific precision allows Incellderm products to deliver measurable, long-

term improvements in skin texture, firmness, and resilience, rather than just temporary surface effects.

Many skincare regimens can feel overwhelming. How does this ritual simplify or streamline the process for users?

at once — hydration, repair, protection, and rejuvenation. The instructions are intuitive, making it easy to integrate into daily life, while the layered approach ensures that every step enhances the effectiveness of the next. This way, users enjoy a comprehensive, high-performance routine that feels manageable rather than overwhelming

While some skincare routines can feel complicated or intimidating, the Incellderm Ritual Experience is designed to simplify the process without compromising results. Each product is formulated to work synergistically, so users can follow a clear, step-by-step ritual that addresses multiple skin needs

What kinds of visible results can people expect from consistently using the Incellderm Ritual Experience?

Consistent use of the Incellderm Ritual Experience delivers noticeable improvements in skin’s appearance and texture. Users often see enhanced hydration, a more even and radiant complexion, and smoother, softer skin. Fine lines and dullness gradually diminish, while elasticity and firmness improve. The Ritual also strengthens the skin barrier, helping it look healthier and more resilient over time. These results reflect both immediate radiance and lasting skin health

Riman often talks about “ritual” rather than “routine.” Why is that distinction important for users and their skincare mindset?

Riman prefers the term ‘ritual’ because it frames skincare as an intentional, mindful practice rather than a simple task. This distinction encourages users to engage with each step thoughtfully, fostering consistency, self-care, and a deeper connection to their skin. Viewing

“Rather than treating skincare as a surface-level routine, the Ritual Experience highlights the importance of layering treatments in a way that works synergistically with the skin’s natural processes.”

skincare as a ritual helps people appreciate the process, enjoy the experience, and focus on long-term skin health, rather than just quick fixes.

How does Incellderm address major skin concerns like aging, dryness, sensitivity, or uneven texture?

Incellderm addresses key skin concerns through carefully selected, sciencebacked ingredients and formulations. Aging is supported with peptides and growth factors to boost collagen and reduce fine lines. Dryness is alleviated with deep hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid and squalane. Sensitive skin is soothed with calming botanicals such as Centella Asiatica and madecassoside. Uneven texture and tone are improved using antioxidants and brightening ingredients like niacinamide.

by carefully selecting ingredients and adhering to strict formulation standards. Harmful substances like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates are avoided, while naturally derived, ethically sourced botanicals are prioritized. Packaging is designed with sustainability in mind, and all products undergo dermatological testing for safety and efficacy. At the

Incellderm Ritual Experience. Users often report visibly smoother, more hydrated skin, a brighter and more even complexion, and a reduction in fine lines and sensitivity. Beyond the physical changes, many highlight the confidence and joy they gain from engaging in a mindful skincare ritual, noting that it has become an empowering part of their daily self-care routine.

Combined in a layered, synergistic ritual, these elements work together to promote healthier, smoother, and more resilient skin.

In what ways does Riman ensure the products remain clean, safe, and sustainable while delivering high performance?

Riman ensures Incellderm products remain clean, safe, and sustainable

same time, advanced technologies like liposomal delivery and potent active ingredients ensure high-performance results without compromising integrity.

Can you share any customer success stories or testimonials that highlight the transformation possible with the ritual?

Many customers have experienced remarkable transformations with the

For someone completely new to Riman or luxury skincare, why would you recommend starting with the Incellderm Ritual Experience?

: For someone new to Riman or luxury skincare, the Incellderm Ritual Experience is the perfect starting point because it offers a complete, easy-to-follow system that addresses all the key needs of healthy skin. Each step is thoughtfully designed to work together, helping beginners see real improvements in hydration, texture, and radiance without feeling overwhelmed. It’s not just a routine—it’s an introduction to mindful, high-performance skincare that teaches users how to care for their skin effectively while enjoying the process.

{ BEAUTIFUL, POWERFUL, DESERVING }

A DREAM IS A WISH YOUR HEART MAKES

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY VERONICA RYAN

Part I: Birth of a Princess

Let me tell you a story. It begins like many similar stories you’ve heard before, but its end might surprise you.

Here goes:

Once upon a time, in the wee hours of a snowy March morning, high up in a gray stone tower, a beautiful baby girl was born. She had flawless skin, sparkling eyes the color of dark chocolate, a twinkling smile, and a hearty laugh that would put Santa’s to shame. Her parents, the Lady and Lord of the house, adored her from the moment she was born. She was, and remains, their own perfect princess.

That baby girl was, of course, yours truly. I have always imagined those early moments of my life that way. My parents told me about the eyes, the laugh, the skin, and the smile many times, and I have felt their love just as often. Mom and Dad would bust a gut laughing, however, at the “Lord and Lady” and “castle tower” bits. I was born in Crouse Irving Hospital, not in a glittering palace, surrounded by doctors’ and nurses’ scrubs instead of royal purple robes. My ancestors in Ireland, Germany, and France may have worked in castles, but they certainly never owned them, and Mom and Dad certainly aren’t – and don’t wish to be – royalty. My great grandparents on my Dad’s side fled famine and violence in Ireland, and Mom’s forebears fled poverty and religious persecution in Germany and France. Somehow, though, despite all that, when I was a little girl I just knew that I was a princess.

I loved princesses and barbies and fairytales. I loved that they lived in a world without limits, a world where anything could happen, and where good always triumphed. I loved their beauty and their clothes and their finery, to be sure, but I also loved their compassion, their strength, and their unique talents and abilities. I loved my barbie dolls’ seemingly endless list of skills and careers. I loved Snow White’s kindness, Cinderella’s courage, Aurora’s grace, Belle’s brains, and – most of all – Ariel’s voice. You see, I was a quiet kid, even a shy kid, and I thought the way Ariel could belt out a song was just awesome. I wanted to do the same someday. Maybe not actually singing, but I knew I would find my voice, and tell my story, even when I was just a little kid with only a few years’ worth of story to tell.

If you’re a regular reader of this column you know that my story had quite a few bumps and detours in my teens and early twenties. I struggled with anxiety and depression in my teens, and I was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) in my early twenties. These experiences certainly made my story more complex and challenging, even darker on many days, but they also drove me to find my voice. They compelled me to tell my story to the world, to break down stigmas and to offer hope to everyone who struggles with their mental health, and to their loved ones. Thanks to Kelly Breuer, I was able to launch the Beautiful, Powerful, Deserving platform here in Rochester Woman Online Magazine in May 2024. I’ve been privileged to advocate as a

speaker for the Upstate Foundation and the Psychiatry High Risk Program (PHRP), and I started my own blog, Borderline Babe, in the fall of 2025.

The latest chapter in my story, one that will culminate in May of next year, is the Miss New York for America Strong Pageant. It feels like the perfect opportunity to use my voice, and to tell my story. The pageant draws together all those things I loved in my dolls and my princesses: their style, strength, and versatility; their passion, power, and resilience; their joy, kindness, and love. It has welcomed me into a community of strong women, each one with a fascinating story to tell, each one devoted to community service and advocacy. These are beautiful women in the fullest sense of the word, real, complex women who find beauty in, and bring beauty to, everything they do.

When I’m all dressed up for an appearance or event, I totally feel like a princess – but a princess who never lived in a castle. I’m a princess who isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty, and who has kissed a frog or two. I’m a princess who can face any challenge and tackle any dragon. I’m a princess who wants to make the world a better place. I’m a princess with a story to tell.

AT HOME WITH WELLNESS

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

. Laura, can you share a little bit about your personal journey and what inspired you to create At Home With Wellness?

Starting as early as the 1990’s, I had the opportunity to meet multiple people who had advanced autoimmunity, where organs were shutting down, untreatable stage 4 cancer, etc., and who were told there was nothing more that could be done for them. These same people took their diet and nutrition into their own hands and not only saved their own lives but became vibrant and went on to teach, guide, and inspire others to do the same.

Also, at that time, my father was diagnosed with cancer, so I was additionally inspired to invest in learning and sharing all that I could. It truly lit my lifelong passion for the power of food for healing. Fast forward to today, where every day I get to witness the power of nutrition and natural healing as it brings real-life examples of amazing recovery and vibrant health.

I should also add that perhaps there was a genetic influence too as my mother loved the work of Adele Davis. She would take in Adele’s wisdom and use that in raising her 15 children.

me to so naturally resonate with teaching and guiding others on how to use real food, optimal nutrition, and natural and holistic methods for addressing illness and regaining vibrant health.

All aspects of natural health were just a part of our life—from growing all of our

the foundation that was built in for me.

At Home With Wellness offers a wide range of services—from Nutritional Therapy to BioEnergetic Wellness, Brain Retraining, Lymphatic Support, and more. For those new to holistic health, how would you describe your overall philosophy?

own vegetables for the year, picking at orchards and canning foods, to having our own fresh milk, eggs, pastured meat, etc.

Growing up on a farm and in such a large family, food and wellness were a huge part of your life from the start— how has that upbringing shaped the foundation of your practice today?

I truly believe it was the foundational aspect of my upbringing that has allowed

Each year, more studies come forward on the health of the soil dictating our health, the importance of organic foods, eating more whole foods, the issues with processed seed oils, additives, chemicals in our environment,etc., etc. This was

At its heart, our philosophy is simple: the body knows how to heal when it feels safe, supported and the blocks to healing are addressed.

We focus on the terrain—your inner environment of body, mind, and nervous system. We see each person as utterly unique. Shaped by history, ancestry, environment, and lived experience. That means healing can never be one-size-fits-all. It has to be personal, bio-individual, and addressed in layers based on priority. Through our work, we create the conditions where your body can do what it’s designed to do: repair, rebalance, and thrive.

We make space for healing by clearing what blocks it and feeding what strengthens it. When stress is lowered, when the nervous system feels safe, when nutrients are available, when toxins and hidden infections are cleared— the body doesn’t need to be told what to do. It moves back toward balance because that’s its natural design. Our job is to remove the obstacles, supply the essentials, and hold the space long enough for that intelligence to take over. Sometimes that looks like nourishing the gut with real food, sometimes it’s calming a dysregulated nervous system, sometimes it’s supporting the lymphatic

“Root cause work matters because it finally asks why. Why the fatigue? Why the brain fog? Why the autoimmune flare? Until that “why” is uncovered and corrected, the body can’t fully heal.”

drainage, sometimes it’s uncovering and removing hidden stressors that conventional tests overlook. Always, it’s about working with the wisdom of the whole system, not just treating symptoms.

The concept of “bio individuality” is central to your Nutritional Therapy approach—can you explain what that means and why it’s so important? Bio-individuality is the idea that no two bodies are alike. Each of us carries a different history. Our genetics, ancestry, environment, even the stress we’ve lived through. All of that shapes how our body digests, detoxifies, and heals.

This means that what nourishes one person might deplete another. A food that helps your neighbor feel vibrant could trigger inflammation in you. A supplement that’s beneficial for someone might do nothing for the next.

That’s why, in our Nutritional Therapy work, the entire protocol we build is deeply personalized. We start by gaining as much clarity and insight into your unique body—its needs and struggles—and then rebuild the foundational systems that every body requires in order to heal and feel its best. All of this happens in a way that’s designed to be most aligned with your current state.

When we honor bio-individuality, healing becomes more effective and more sustainable.

Many of your services focus on finding the root cause of health challenges. Why do you believe this is critical, especially

for those who have tried traditional or even functional medicine without success?

Most conventional approaches focus on treating symptoms in isolation. And while that can sometimes bring the relief we’re looking for, if we don’t address the root cause behind the symptom, it’s only a matter of time before it returns. What’s more, the longer the root cause is ignored, the more stress it creates. And with it, more symptoms and potential for illness and disease.

Let’s take something simple: a headache. The most convenient response is to grab a pill and wait for it to kick in. And usually, it works. The headache fades. But what if the real reason it appeared was a mineral deficiency (which is incredibly common nowadays)?

The pill doesn’t fix the deficiency. So even though your headache might disappear for a few hours, that imbalance will keep showing up in other ways. Fatigue, muscle cramps, brain fog, low mood, heart function.

Root cause work matters because it finally asks why. Why the fatigue? Why the brain fog? Why the autoimmune flare? Until that “why” is uncovered and corrected, the body can’t fully heal. For those who have already tried everything, this is often the missing piece. We’ve worked with thousands of clients in this situation, helping them uncover the true root causes that give rise to illness and symptoms in the body.

Can you tell us more about BioEnergetic Wellness and how it goes beyond

functional medicine to integrate mind and body healing?

Our BioEnergetic Wellness services are designed to uncover the hidden stressors that keep the body from healing. Things like toxins, infections, unresolved trauma, scars, cavitations/jaw health, EMF stress or energetic blockages that conventional testing can miss, but more often are unable to even assess.

We use an advanced assessment methodology called Autonomic Response Testing, which allows us to detect dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system and identify what’s disrupting the body’s natural ability to self-regulate.

BioEnergetic Wellness acknowledges that the nervous system, the mind, and the body’s biochemistry are inseparably linked and then goes on to ask what’s preventing the body from finding balance in the first place.

This means a skin rash may not just be about the skin. It could be a toxic burden the liver can’t clear. Fatigue may not just be about mitochondria. It might trace back to a chronic infection or even a scar that’s disrupting energy flow. By finding and addressing those deeper blockages in the right order, we create space for the body to repair, regenerate, and self-heal, as it’s designed to do.

BioEnergetic Wellness helps restore the communication between the mind and body, so healing becomes possible. Not just physically, but emotionally and energetically too.

“Bio-individuality

is the idea that no two bodies are alike. Each of us carries a different history. Our genetics, ancestry, environment, even the stress we’ve lived through. All of that shapes how our body digests, detoxifies, and heals.”

Brain Retraining is a fascinating service. How does this program help people break free from chronic pain, illness, or limiting patterns? We could say Brain Retraining is about teaching the nervous system a new language. One of safety instead of constant survival.

Many chronic illnesses and patterns of pain are fueled by a body stuck in “fight or flight.” Over time, this state keeps inflammation high, disrupts digestion and hormones, and even shapes how we see ourselves.

Through gentle, customized, practical tools (like visualization, vagal nerve toning, and emotional release practices) Connie, our Brain Retraining coach, helps people interrupt those stress loops and build new neural pathways. The brain is incredibly adaptable. It can learn to stop interpreting daily life as a threat. As the nervous system shifts, the body follows: inflammation lowers, symptoms ease, and clients begin to feel more present, resilient, and connected to who they really are.

It’s not an overnight change, but over time, Brain Retraining helps people move from living in constant defense to living in alignment with health, joy, and possibility. And, you are provided with lifelong tools to support your wellness.

FLOWpresso and the Infrared Sauna are both powerful therapies. What are the main benefits your clients experience with these treatments?

FLOWpresso is one of the most powerful tools we have for helping the body move

out of survival mode and into healing. And the only of its kind in Rochester and all of western NY!

It’s a uniquely engineered bodysuit that combines compression, gentle heat, and deep pressure therapy to support lymphatic drainage and detoxification. But its real magic is how it communicates safety to the nervous system.

FLOWpresso has been clinically proven to improve sleep, lower stress, and reduce anxiety by guiding the body out of “fight or flight” and into the parasympathetic state—that calm, restorative mode often called “rest and digest.”

When you’re living in chronic stress, the body puts essential healing functions on hold: digestion slows, hormones get disrupted, inflammation rises. FLOWpresso helps reverse that pattern, reminding the body it’s safe enough to repair and restore.

When it comes to our sauna, what you need to know is that infrared heat is different from the heat of a traditional sauna. It penetrates deep into your tissues, which is why research shows it can deliver such wide-ranging benefits: anti-inflammatory, immunesupporting, detoxifying, even anti-aging and cardiovascular support. The longer you can comfortably stay in, the more powerful and lasting those benefits become.

That’s where our Infrared Sauna shines. Its design allows your head and heart to remain outside of the heat, so you don’t overheat or feel drained. The bottom

three-quarters of your body are bathed in infrared, effectively heating you from head to toe without the strain.

You can choose a gentler temperature to support detox through the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system, or turn up the heat if you’d like to sweat it out through your skin. Every session can be customized.

And unlike a traditional sauna, the sweat from infrared is lighter and non-sticky. That means you don’t need to shower or change clothes afterward. You can walk right out, clear-headed, refreshed, and ready to go on with your day.

You’ve attended over 25 international conferences and hold more than 15 certifications—how has continuing education and training shaped your practice and kept you on the cutting edge of wellness?

I LOVE to learn and love the challenge of learning on all sides of the topic so as to better understand our human physiology, illness, biofield, and biochemistry—even as the body creates its own unique terrain in response to toxicity, the brain’s role in healing, and every aspect of natural restoration.

I take in training weekly with Dr. Dietrich Klinghardt and many other practicing clinicians from around the world who are continually refining how to best assess and most effectively address the top common stressors of our time— infections, toxins, environmental stressors, hidden factors, etc.

I am soon leaving for Salt Lake City

“At its heart, our philosophy is simple: the body knows how to heal when it feels safe, supported and the blocks to healing are addressed.”

to attend the annual Wise Traditions conference—my 19th! This conference brings together research leaders, thought leaders, and clinical experts from around the world who are teaching about holistic healing and the restoration of our food and soil—the true FOUNDATIONS for vibrant health.

The gut microbiome is central to so many health issues. What are the biggest misconceptions people have about gut health, and how do you help them see the connection to overall wellness? One of the biggest misconceptions is that gut health begins and ends with digestive symptoms such as bloating, constipation, food sensitivities.

In reality, the gut microbiome influences almost every system in the body: your immune function, hormones, skin, mood, and even how clearly you can think. When the gut is out of balance, symptoms often show up in places people would never expect, like chronic fatigue, anxiety, rashes, learning/focus or brain fog.

Another misconception is that there’s “gut protocol” that works for everyone. The truth is, no two microbiomes are the same. What heals one person may inflame another, which is why one-sizefits-all diets or supplement regimens so often fail.

In our practice, we start by identifying the root causes behind gut dysfunction, whether that’s poor digestion, nutrient deficiencies, mineral deficiencies, blood sugar dysregulation, fatty acids imbalance, inflammation, or hidden infections.

Then we rebuild the foundations step by step, in a way that feels doable and specific to that individual’s needs. Once the gut is supported, people are often surprised at how quickly the ripple effects spread: better energy, clearer skin, calmer moods, more resilient immunity.

You’ve mentioned working with clients who had no resolution after years with specialists—what has it meant to you to finally provide hope and results for those people?

To provide hope brings me the greatest joy and truly is what fuels me to continue to invest so heavily in my advanced training. In fact, a client I met with yesterday shared that HOPE is what she is in greatest need of. After years with countless doctors and specialists, including alternative, holistic, and functional medicine support, she was still without answers—and without hope.

Our health issues have become far more complicated in the past five years, so it has become imperative to train even further to support clients today.

With the Autonomic Response Testing methodology, I have the ability to find what is blocking healing. So, hope is truly possible and realistic when we have the means to assess for the very hidden blocks, interference fields, etc. Not only is hope possible, but hope is the most important part of any person’s wellness journey. Our clients leave with HOPE!

Can you tell us about your Foundations to Success Masterclasses and how they empower people to take control of

their health?

We created the Foundations to Success Masterclass Series to simplify people’s first steps toward healing and make them more accessible. In our Nutritional Therapy work, we talk about digestion, blood sugar, and healthy fats with every single client, because they’re universal pillars of health. These three areas are foundational for just about anyone, which is why we wanted to bring this education to a wider audience.

These may sound simple, but they’re the very systems that decide how well your body absorbs nutrients, balances energy, regulates mood, fights inflammation, and even prevents chronic disease. If they’re out of balance, no supplement or protocol will ever fully work.

Together, these classes give people both the education and practical tools to create a solid foundation for healing. Each comes with a companion ebook full of therapeutic food lists, pro tips, and easy ways to start making changes right away.

Even if you don’t do anything else for your health, focusing on rebuilding these three foundations will begin to create positive shifts, such as more energy, steadier moods, clearer thinking, better sleep. That’s guaranteed. Of course, they won’t resolve complex conditions on their own, but they will always move you in the right direction.

Your Parasite & Lyme Masterclasses tackle often overlooked issues. What inspired you to create these programs, and what do you hope participants

“Each year, more studies come forward on the health of the soil dictating our health, the importance of organic foods, eating more whole foods, the issues with processed seed oils, additives, chemicals in our environment,etc., etc. This was the foundation that was built in for me.”

Laura felt called to create these masterclasses after years of sitting across from people suffering, sometimes even for decades, with mysterious, persistent symptoms, and never being told to consider parasites or Lyme disease as a possible root cause.

They’d been through every test, every specialist, every protocol. Yet parasites or Lyme were never even mentioned or were perhaps tested and came back inconclusive or with false negatives. Despite how incredibly common they are, these conditions are often overlooked, misdiagnosed, or dismissed—even in holistic spaces. That gap in awareness is what inspired us to create these programs. Parasites and Lyme are two of the most under-recognized drivers of chronic illness, and until people know how to assess AND how to assess for them, they’ll remain stuck in cycles of confusion and suffering.

Through these masterclasses, we hope to offer what so many of our clients never received: clarity, context, and a roadmap.

With Parasites Unveiled, the goal is to show just how wide-reaching the impact of parasites can be. Not just in the gut, but in the skin, the brain, the lungs, the liver, even mood and mental health. Most people are shocked to learn that parasites could be behind symptoms they’ve carried for years. We give them tools to understand, test, and address these hidden invaders in safe, natural ways.

With Lyme Mastery, the focus is on awareness and timing. Lyme can mimic

so many other illnesses, and by the time it’s diagnosed, people have often been struggling for years or decades. We want participants to understand the red flags early, know how co-infections complicate the picture, and walk away with actionable steps that can truly shorten the path to recovery.

The RESTART® Program sounds like a powerful introduction to healthy living. What kind of transformations have you seen in participants who go through it?

The RESTART® Program is such a powerful way to reset your relationship with food because it combines education, practice, and community. For five weeks, we walk together through cutting out sugar while learning how blood sugar balance impacts everything from energy to mood to long-term health.

The transformations are often incredible. By the third week, people who thought they’d never get through a day without sugar are reporting clearer skin, deeper sleep, fewer digestive issues, and energy they haven’t felt in years. Many say they feel like a fog has lifted. They’re more focused, more resilient, and even more joyful. Others share that their relationship with food has completely changed: they no longer feel stuck in cycles of cravings, guilt, or confusion.

One participant once shared “I didn’t realize how bad I’d gotten used to feeling until I went through this program. I feel ten years younger, and I actually believe I can do this for life.”

With each round, we’ve seen how powerful this program is in building a

foundation and confidence that carries forward long after the program ends.

At Home With Wellness has expanded to include a team of practitioners and specialists. Can you introduce us to your team and share how they enhance the client experience?

We’re so fortunate to have a team that brings our philosophy to life—healing that is collaborative, layered, and anchored in genuine care.

Our founder, Laura, has spent decades walking alongside people who felt they had run out of options, and that experience fuels everything she does. Her drive to keep learning—to study, certify, and gather tools from across the spectrum of holistic care—comes from one simple goal: to make healing easier, deeper, and more accessible for anyone who walks through our doors. Her relentless commitment to helping people find their most vibrant health shines through in each and every single thing that she does.

But beyond her expertise, Laura is the steady center of our team. She leads with warmth and genuine care, making sure every client feels heard and every practitioner feels supported. She has a way of drawing out the best in people, whether it’s a client rediscovering hope or a team member growing into their own strengths. She truly has a gift for encouraging everyone around her to step into their brightest light.

As our Director of Nutritional Therapy, Brianna has helped hundreds of clients turn the page on years of struggle. Clients describe her as “life-changing,”

{ IN THE SPOTLIGHT

“Fast forward to today, where every day I get to witness the power of nutrition and natural healing as it brings real-life examples of amazing recovery and vibrant health.”

“the most spectacular care I’ve ever received,” and “the reason I finally feel like myself again.”

She meets each of them with compassion, depth, and a determination to help them find the easiest, most effective steps forward.

What makes her so effective is that her work comes from lived experience. Brianna knows what it’s like to be dismissed by the system and left searching for answers. And that’s why she’s relentless about giving her clients both solutions and hope.

The results speak for themselves: from healing digestive issues and thyroid imbalances to helping clients regain energy, clarity, and confidence, Brianna’s work is rewriting health stories every single day.

Our FLOWpresso® specialist, Sarah, has quickly become so beloved by clients for the way she combines knowledge, kindness, and care. Over and over again, clients say she makes them feel completely at ease, walking them through the process with clarity and compassion so they know exactly what to expect. Her own path into wellness began years ago as she sought out natural ways to support her family’s health. That curiosity grew into a passion for exploring holistic modalities, and today, she’s a true lymphatic care expert. Sarah’s presence enhances the therapy itself. She brings a peaceful joy and attentiveness that makes every session restorative on multiple levels. It’s no wonder clients can’t wait to come back for more.

Connie, our Brain Retraining and Stress Management Coach, has a calm and steady presence that clients often describe as soothing and transformative. Her own journey taught her that, beyond the physical, healing also involves rewiring the nervous system and shifting the thought patterns that keep us stuck in stress. That insight is now the foundation of the work she shares every day.

Clients come to Connie overwhelmed by anxiety, restless sleep, or the weight of constant stress, and they leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more at peace. Many say she’s given them tools they can use for life: strategies that help them sleep through the night, reduce anxiety, and bring more harmony to their relationships. What makes Connie so special is how she embeds compassion in everything she does. She not only offers her clients practices, but walks with them through the process, creating safety, trust, and space for real change.

What is one client success story that has truly touched your heart and reminded you why you do this work?

A recent one: a young man, just 29 years old—a former NHL player—was dealing with many complicated issues. He had experienced over a decade of fatigue, excruciating headaches, severe inflammation and irritation of his skin, kidney stones, hot flashes of the face, cold flashes in the extremities, severe ADHD, vitiligo, digestive issues, jolts throughout the body, hair retracting into his scalp, and more. He had lost all hope after spending the past 10 years seeking help from over 20 doctors, specialists, and additional practitioners around the country.

We are just six months into our work together, but this client has surely turned the corner on his health. He is feeling better every week, every month - much better energy, focus, skin comfort,etc. The start to any MAJOR healing journey is slow and takes patience, but within a couple of months, he was through the slowest and hardest part of shifting his terrain and supporting his detox. He is well on his way and is so pleased and grateful to have found his body’s innate capacity to heal. His future is bright!

Looking ahead, what is your vision for At Home With Wellness and how do you hope to continue making an impact in the Rochester community and beyond?

I would love to make the FOUNDATIONAL wisdom and services that we offer more available and more known. Truly, the most efficient way for all of us to find our best and most vibrant health is to have the right foundations in place. This makes lifelong wellness possible. It also helps parents raise children who have the easiest and healthiest lives and learn with great ease, etc. The more we are able to serve people with these core foundations, the easier it will be for our community to find and attain their best all-around health— physical, emotional, and psychological. We are here to help make life easier and much more vibrant - for children to adults to seniors. Aging gracefully in our senior years is possible, but it starts with a foundational nutrition, mind & body, lymphatic supported, root cause approach. If you resonate with a foundational, holistic, root cause approach, we invite you to join us on your wellness journey.

“A sick child is a sick family”. Dr Audrey Evans. When a child is hospitalized because they are critically ill or injured, there is an emotional toll on the entire family. The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is a global Mission with almost 300 chapters located in over 62 countries. The support and services provided by each chapter across the globe is often referred to as a “Lifeline.” There are 167 chapters in the US, 7 in New York State, and we are so fortunate to have one right here in Rochester, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester (RMHCR).

When a child is critically ill or severely injured, life shifts dramatically for the entire family. Parents are often thrust into an unfamiliar landscape of urgent medical decisions, long hospital stays, and emotional chaos. There is an emotional and psychological impact on the entire family because a child’s serious illness or injury affects the entire family system. Parents often experience intense anxiety, guilt, fear, and helplessness. Siblings may also feel confused, invisible, or emotionally overwhelmed. The uncertainty of medical outcomes, coupled with the logistics of hospital stays and financial strain, creates a perfect storm of stress.

Amid this turmoil, one organization stands out as a beacon of hope and relief, uniquely focused on caring for the family as a unit. RMHCR offers families stability, support, and a sense of normalcy during the most difficult times, playing a crucial role in alleviating stress and safeguarding the mental wellness of those affected.

1. Chronic Stress and Anxiety

Families with a critically ill child often live in a constant state of fight-or-flight. Parents worry about their child’s health, the outcomes of procedures, and whether they’re making the correct decisions. This stress can lead to chronic anxiety, sleep

A LIFELINE { MINUTES MATTER }

BY JOANNE RYAN

disturbances, and even depression. Studies show that parents of critically ill children are at higher risk for PTSD, especially if the child has undergone multiple invasive procedures or lengthy hospital stays.

2. Disruption of Family Life

For many families, a child’s hospitalization means being away from home for days, weeks, or even months. This separation can upend family routines, strain marriages, affect job stability, and lead to long-term financial difficulties. Siblings left at home may struggle with feelings of abandonment or fear, while parents grapple with guilt about how to divide their time and attention.

3. Financial Pressure

Beyond the emotional toll, families also face overwhelming financial strain. Travel costs, meals, lodging, and lost wages can add up quickly, creating impossible pressure. Too often, parents are forced to weigh being at their child’s bedside against maintaining income and stability at home; a choice no family should ever have to face.

The Role of Ronald McDonald House Charities: Keeping Families Close

The mission of RMHC was founded on a powerful belief: families are stronger together. When a child is hospitalized, their greatest support system is their family. Every chapter, including ours here in Rochester, provides a network of resources and services designed to ease the burden on families and promote healing through proximity and care.

1. A Home Away From Home

One of the most recognized services of RMHC is the Ronald McDonald House. Here in Rochester, we are proud to operate two Houses. Our Westmoreland Drive House offers 24 private guest rooms, each with its own en-suite bath, creating a comfortable and supportive home away from home for families. In addition, we have a House

Within the Hospital (HWTH) on the 5th floor of Strong Memorial Hospital, which provides 7 private rooms with ensuite baths just steps away from a child’s bedside. Rochester’s HWTH was the 4th of its kind in the world, and today, only 19 exist worldwide. We also have 2 Sleep Rooms with 2 private en-suite baths at Unity Hospital. These Houses and Sleep Rooms provide a place where families can rest just steps away from their child’s hospital bed. In addition to lodging, they provide:

• Home-cooked meals or meal vouchers for our sleep rooms

• Free Laundry facilities

• Supportive common spaces

• On-site support from staff and volunteers This arrangement allows families to stay just steps from their child’s care, easing the burden of hotel costs, eliminating long commutes, and reducing the sense of isolation during a difficult time.

2. Reducing Stress and Promoting Mental Health

By removing some of the logistical and financial burdens, RMHC enables parents to focus on what truly matters: their child’s recovery. Families staying at Ronald McDonald Houses report lower levels of stress and feel better equipped to cope with their child’s medical journey. The emotional benefits include:

• Improved sleep and self-care due to comfortable accommodations

• Peer support from other families going through similar experiences

• Decreased isolation, thanks to communal spaces and shared experiences

• Access to counseling and mental health resources will be available soon in both house locations

We will soon be opening our Strength from Within program, which is a mental health program designed to support families facing

{ MINUTES MATTER

“When a child is critically ill or severely injured, life shifts dramatically for the entire family.”

the stress and trauma of a child’s medical journey. Offered in partnership with Strong Family Therapy, this innovative program provides accessible, no-cost counseling— empowering caregivers to prioritize their emotional well-being and build resilience in a trusted, compassionate space. Walk-in program and groups launching in 2025 in both House Programs.

Family members who may receive support through this service include not only the parents and guardians of sick children but also the siblings, grandparents, and other close relatives who play an integral role in the child’s life. These individuals often experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and emotional strain, which can affect their overall well-being and ability to care for their loved ones. This dynamic is intertwined between family members, and its impact on clinical outcomes for sick children is well documented (Yagiela & Hartman, 2021).

Additional Mental Health and wellness supports are part of our other services

o In 2018, RMHCR opened the very first Mental Health and Wellness Family Room in the RMHC world. Located in Strong Memorial Hospital, adjacent to the Brighter Days Mental Health walk-in clinic, specifically designed to support families with children receiving care for a mental health diagnosis.

o We also launched in 2025 a Mental Health and Wellness program located within the Family Room at Golisano Children’s Hospital. This initiative offers families staying bedside with their child a chance to rest and recharge. Through thoughtfully designed daily wellness programs, families are supported in finding moments of calm and care during an otherwise stressful time. Many families describe RMHCR as a sanctuary during their darkest days.

3. Supporting the Entire Family

RMHCR understands that when a child is critically ill, the entire family is affected. Programs are in place to support siblings through our Sib-Shop, offering activities and child-focused services that bring some sense of normalcy back into their lives. Whether it’s tutoring, playtime, or emotional support, RMHC ensures no family member is left behind.

4. Financial Relief

By providing free lodging, meals, and transportation assistance, RMHCR helps reduce the financial pressure on families. For those who have already lost income due to time off work or mounting medical bills, this support is invaluable.

The impact of RMHC is perhaps best told through the stories of the families they’ve helped. Time and again, families describe how being close to their child helped both the child’s recovery and their own mental resilience.

One parent shared:

“We were scared and exhausted. I had no idea how we would manage staying in another city for months. The Ronald McDonald House gave us a place to rest, eat, and be together. I don’t know how we would’ve made it through without them.” These stories are echoed by thousands of families worldwide, reinforcing that emotional and mental well-being are just as important as medical treatment when a child is critically ill.

When a child is hospitalized, the immediate focus is naturally on their medical care. Yet it’s equally critical to recognize and support the emotional and psychological needs of their caregivers. Research continues to show that family presence can lead to:

• Faster recovery times

• Better outcomes for the child

• Reduced anxiety and trauma for parents and siblings

RMHC supports the entire family unit, recognizing that wellness is deeply interconnected.

How You Can Help

RMHCR relies on the generosity of so many. We are 80% philanthropically supported. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, local and state foundations, corporate partners, and volunteers, annually, we support over 3,000 families, provide over 10,000 family nights, and save families over $2,500,000. We are committed to keeping our programs and services relevant and impactful, together with our healthcare partners at the University of Rochester Medical Center’s Golisano Children’s Hospital and Rochester Regional Health. We are conduits to care, improving quality, decreasing costs, enhancing the family experience, decreasing clinician burnout, and clearing barriers to care. RMHCR is a formidable contributor to improved health outcomes as we keep families close during the hardest times of their lives.

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Having a critically ill or injured child is every parent’s worst nightmare. The emotional toll is profound, touching every aspect of a family’s life—mental health, relationships, finances, and daily life. In these moments, the support provided by Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester can make an immeasurable difference.

RMHCR helps families stay strong, connected, and ultimately together. When a child is fighting for their life, that support isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

ANN MARIE DEPOIAN { JOURNEY TO SUCCESS }

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Ann Marie, your journey from advertising into financial services is incredibly inspiring. What inspired that leap of faith, and how did it reshape your life and career? I needed more money and time! I was newly married, a new mom and homeowner. I had quit my corporate job as an advertising account executive and my choices for income to that point were not working out! I tried being an advertising consultant and opened my own home day care, neither paid enough or gave me the time and flexibility and ultimately the overall feeling of service with accomplishment that I desired, so we were going into debt and getting stressed out in our new marriage. Not a good combination! Then our friends began their financial advising business with Primerica and we saw success in them after a year and them asking us 3x to join them and us saying no each time, until they said that this would be the last time they’d ask, after that, we could never tell them they did try to get us in. So we took it seriously after they came back from a trip to Hawaii that they earned and had taken their baby daughter who was 9 days older than our son and their mother, so she could watch her during meetings, and they came back with awards that blew me away as well as their income had exceeded $100k in just over a year, so all of that together, we were ready to listen and learn. They also believed in us so strongly that we truly felt we could make a go of it and be just as successful if not more so. Boy, did we have a lot to learn!

First of all, we are GREAT at this! We had all of the fundamental skills and mindset to make it work, however, we had never experienced working in a business for ourselves and the daily disciplines and mental toughness that it required. I’m super competitive, so hitting small goals made me reach for

will take all of the rejections so that I never would have to tell my children no because we couldn’t afford it later. I could of course tell them no, if I didn’t want them to have something, LOL, but that would be my choice, not my circumstance.

bigger, being able to do this business as a partnership with my husband, Jeff meant EVERYTHING to both of us and got us through many tough times. We knew that when we made this decision together to pursue this career, that we were ALL IN and NOTHING was going to stop us! I had a handwritten note on my fridge that said, “I’ll take the NO’s now so my children won’t have to hear NO later” Meaning, I

You’re celebrating 25 years in business in 2025. What does that milestone mean to you personally and professionally?

It means we’re a proven concept. We’re in it to win it and we’ve proven to ourselves and especially the nay-sayers, the unsupportive and disbelievers that we’ve made it without them! It’s also great to hear those people say, “I always knew you could do it.” or “Yeah that’s my (friend/relative) she’s a successful financial advisor, or has her own business...” Yeah, no thanks to YOU! Ha,ha!

Seriously, it gives me a sense of pride and accomplishment because I know from working with so many business owners over the years, how hard it is to last the first 5 years in any business, let alone a service business like ours with so many variables that can send the business into a tailspin if you’re not prepared to face it and ride it out and come out better for it on the other side, like we were. All while growing our 6-figure income.

What sets The Depoian Team apart in a crowded financial services market?

That’s easy! Our System--No Quotas! No Products we must sell! Total Support of our Primerica back office! The p/t to f/t business model allows agents like us to grow our agency within an

{ JOURNEY TO SUCCESS }

“We had all of the fundamental skills and mindset to make it work, however, we had never experienced working in a business for ourselves and the daily disciplines and mental toughness that it required.”

agency so we had the skills for success when we opened our own office. And most of all, being woman owned and earning Ownership of my code, which means I have my family as beneficiaries of my business or I or they can sell it to someone else in Primerica for a profit. Ultimately, that is what gives me peace of mind, knowing that what I’ve worked so hard for and continue to grow is now a secure family legacy. The recurring six-figure income from our large and growing investment business is pretty great too!

As a 100% woman-owned and operated agency, how do you view your role in empowering other women in finance and entrepreneurship?

I believe it is the responsibility of all women who are successful to help out other women in business to reach their level of success too. There is plenty of business to go around, so we shouldn’t be secretive with our resources or have a scarcity mindset. I believe that I provide a winning example with my lifestyle, my daily effort, activity and positive attitude.

You mention leading with a “clientfirst” approach and avoiding quotas or pressure. How does this philosophy influence your team’s culture and reputation?

We always like to create memorable experiences for our family, our team and our clients, so we always filter our decisions around that. We focus on financial literacy, engagement and service. We answer our phones and make appointments Monday through Saturday, 9a-9p and have clients and agents across the country so we make

ourselves available across time-zones, that was an adjustment we had to get use to as we grew and our clients moved. We focus on high integrity and deliverables that go above and beyond expectations.

How did your father’s experience with a financial advisor shape the values and mission behind your work today? That experience that my father had, which affected my mother to this day, was very painful for me. He got taken advantage of by an agent who worked for the life insurance company that hired Snoopy to represent it. While I was helping others not get taken advantage of by the same company and others, he was trying to “fix it” himself, his cash value life insurance product he owned, with the little information he’d learned from me. Instead, that agent took all of his cash value and put it into a Variable Universal life policy that he didn’t need because he was self-insured and was MORE Expensive and had such a long surrender fee schedule that we couldn’t get his money back out. So, we were reduced to paying the minimum that we could, to keep the face value of the insurance in place until he died. The worst part was, he told me that the agent had told him he was taking the money from his policy to open a retirement account for him, and my dad believed him. He was shocked to learn that he was lied to, and when we called to report the agent and his deception, we learned that he had died, so it was my dad’s word against a dead man’s, and the company couldn’t prove it either way, so I couldn’t help my dad, and for that, I will NEVER forgive them or the industry for their deceptive practices on hard-working

people who are trying to do the right thing to protect their families. I had discovered the same thing happening to my people who now became my clients and had successfully gotten those agents fired! Now, I couldn’t do the same for my dad and it hurt. We ALWAYS do what’s right, and as long as my clients are under our protection, we’ll be sure NOTHING like that EVER happens to them!

What has been your greatest achievement over the past 25 years in business?

Earning Ownership of my business, becoming certified as Woman Owned and opening our gorgeous new office in Irondequoit, which is where we live and work! In the town, not my office, LOL!

What has been your biggest struggle— and how did you overcome it?

Identifying and then getting the proper treatment for my anxiety and depression that plagued me since I was a kid, and kept getting worse through Covid until 2021. The cycles of highs and lows in my business and emotions took a terrible toll on me, my husband and the kids, although they say they don’t remember it, I DO and the guilt was crushing. When I finally became so desperate for relief after trying, prayer, therapy, older prescriptions, all to no avail, my doctor and I found the right remedy for me, and it is in the form of prescriptions, again, that’s for me. I believe the lesson is NOT TO SUFFER in silence, and fiercely pursue the treatment that works for you and DON’T STOP until you find it! It’s out there!

{ JOURNEY TO SUCCESS }

“And most of all, being woman owned and earning ownership of my code, which means I have my family as beneficiaries of my business, or they can sell it to someone else in Primerica for a profit.”

Your firm is built around education and empowerment. How do you help clients gain financial literacy, especially those starting from zero?

We’re referral based without fees or quotas and fully lisenced to provide solutions in every area of a person’s financial journey. Most people think that employing a financial advisor is expensive or they don’t have enough money to begin investing. We’ve proven that anyone, regardless of their net worth, can reach their goals and financial independence, they just need to start now! We can help people invest with $25 a month to $25 million (and up) and everything in between. We new technology like BDollarSmart a 5 minute financial diagnostic tool, interactive videos and community and workplace workshops that are fun and educational to teach How Money Works.

How has working alongside your husband and seeing your children follow in your professional footsteps enriched your definition of “success”? It’s everything to me, knowing the work I’ve done has secured our family’s legacy financially and now I feel it’s my responsibility to help other people to enjoy that security and success for themselves and their families, so I actively seek people who want to change their lives while changing the lives of others. Who want to have a family business and don’t want to be under anyone else’s thumb and control their own income and time. To build relationships that go 4 generations deep, like we have with a family. To give their children the ability to pursue their dreams with the financial freedom to do it, while

maintaining wonderful relationship with them and our kids with each other. That’s success to me.

You have a strong justice-driven mission. What does financial justice mean to you, and how do you work toward it every day?

Applying the education you get and helping others to do the same, while actively working to point out and prevent the injustices you find, wherever you find them! That’s what I do in my life and work, and what I encourage others to do.

What’s one piece of financial advice every woman should hear, no matter her income level or life stage?

Start NOW! Start your plan, i, Debt Freedom, your Business or side hustle and use a professional.I’m part of people’s professional support team that includes their Lawyer, Accountant or Tax-Preparer (use an enrolled agent for your taxes!) Banker, etc. As your Financial Advisor, I work for your best interest as should all of the rest of your team. If you don’t feel that way, it’s time for a change. As a matter of fact, you should interview other Advisors from time to time because they may be limited on their offerings and products and strategies change, and you want to be sure you’re getting the latest and best strategies for your situation. As advisors get older, they become more conservative by nature, you should ALWAYS seek a 2nd or 3rd opinion and UNDERSTAND it, if you don’t, they’re the wrong advisor. 13. As a recruiter and mentor, how do you inspire new agents to build meaningful and ethical careers in financial services?

Build your market your way, use mental toughness and emotional intelligence, lean on your mentors, business partners, in our business’s case, they should lean on ME and Jeff to help them become successful and avoid the pitfalls that may be in front of them and their business path. Always do what is 100%of the time for your clients and agents and you’ll be successful. Stick it out and don’t bolt before the blessings. Revisit your “Why” to keep yourself on-track. Stay in alignment with your values and maintain anexcellent work ethic and strive for excellence not perfection.

How has the financial landscape changed over the last 25 years, and how has your firm stayed ahead of the curve?

I don’t know about staying ahead of the curve, but we’ve experienced some of the most volatile markets in recent history from 2000-2025 and had to grow and thrive throughout it all and we’ve learned a lot throughout that time period. Our strategy of having a long-term perspective for investing, understanding How Money Works, having a plan to live debt free and having the right protection-insurances at the right time and not paying too much, and building a plan based on wants and needs and time horizons has served us and our clients very well. We aren’t flavor of the month strategies, we employ tried and true, diversification, systematic and regular, monthly investments and staying disciplined during the strategy, even when it feels like you should get out or change direction. It’s my responsibility to always do what’s right for our clients, and sometimes that means protecting

{ JOURNEY TO SUCCESS }

“To build relationships that go 4 generations deep, like we have with a family. To give their children the ability to pursue their dreams with the financial freedom to do it, while maintaining wonderful relationship with them and our kids with each other. That’s success to me.”

change direction. It’s my responsibility to always do what’s right for our clients, and sometimes that means protecting them from themselves.

What are your goals for the next chapter of The Depoian Team—both in business growth and personal milestones, like becoming Primerica’s first female million-dollar earner in Upstate NY? You said it! Becoming a Million Dollar

Earner in Primerica and getting that Ruby Ring and beyond is my immediate focus and I’ll get there by helping my agents and clients become successful and earn more money, getting more referrals, working with more businesses and earning contracts but most of all I’d like to help promote people to RVP so they’ll open offices of their own and earn over $100k-$300k in their first year and more from there, then have 10 and

more offices in the greater Rochester area enjoying the same success! Finally, our goal has always been to have our children and generations to follow, for their job to be what charities and causes to give our money to when we’re gone.

MAZDA CX 50: ADVENTURE, ELEVATED

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

A New Contender with Familiar DNA

When Mazda unveiled the CX 50, it wasn’t just introducing another compact crossover. It was staking out new territory—literally and metaphorically. This SUV blends the brand’s signature driving dynamics with a tougher, more outdoorsy posture, setting it apart not only from the rest of the Mazda lineup but from the competition as well.

Nestled between the city-friendly CX 30 and the more conventional CX 5, the CX 50 is Mazda’s answer to the call of the wild. But don’t let its rugged cladding and roof rails fool you—this SUV is just as comfortable navigating urban traffic as it is dusty trails.

Design That Does More Than Look

Good

Mazda’s recent design language has earned praise for its elegance and restraint, and the CX 50 builds on that ethos while adding a layer of rugged sophistication. The exterior design is muscular yet sleek. Squared-off wheel arches, matte black cladding, and a more athletic stance give the CX 50 a robust silhouette, especially in trims like the Meridian Edition that amplify its off-road personality. The wide track and low roofline also lend it a sportier, more planted look than most crossovers in its class.

Inside, it’s all refinement. Soft-touch materials, stitched leather, a thoughtfully designed dashboard, and available Bose audio create an environment that feels more luxury than mainstream. Mazda hasn’t gone for flashy tech overload—instead, it focuses on quality, tactile controls, and driver-centric ergonomics.

Performance with Personality

Driving a Mazda has never been about raw speed—it’s about connection. And the CX 50 continues that tradition with multiple powertrain options that cater to different drivers.

BY IAN LOVE

At the base, there’s a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine producing 187 horsepower—more than enough for daily driving and light adventuring. But the real fun begins with the available turbocharged version, pushing up to 256 horsepower with premium fuel. It’s quick, responsive, and delivers a composed, confident ride that outclasses many competitors.

New for 2025, the CX 50 adds a hybrid powertrain to the mix. Partnering a 2.5-liter engine with a trio of electric motors, the hybrid setup churns out a respectable 219 horsepower—and more importantly, offers up to 38 mpg combined. It’s a nod to eco-conscious drivers who don’t want to sacrifice capability.

All trims come standard with all-wheel drive, a move that reinforces the CX 50’s adventure-ready image while giving it genuine grip when conditions get tricky.

Ready for More Than the Commute

Whether you’re heading into the mountains for a weekend getaway or just dealing with a snowy Monday morning, the CX 50 has capability baked in. Select trims offer drive modes for off-road and towing, and the SUV boasts up to 3,500 lbs of towing capacity when properly equipped.

It’s not a hardcore rock crawler, but with extra ground clearance, available all-terrain tires, and sturdy roof rails, it’s more than ready for national parks, gravel roads, and kayak-hauling weekends.

Room to Roam—With Some Caveats

The CX 50 comfortably seats five, with front-row occupants getting the best deal. Rear legroom is decent, though not classleading, and taller passengers might notice the sloping roofline in back. Cargo space is practical but slightly limited compared to roomier rivals, especially in hybrid trims where battery placement eats into storage. But for many buyers, it’s a fair trade for

the style and performance they’re getting in return.

Tech and Trims That Match the Mood

From base trims to fully loaded turbocharged or hybrid models, the CX 50 offers a range of tech and creature comforts. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as does Mazda’s suite of driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Step up in trim levels, and you’ll unlock ventilated leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera system, and an intuitive infotainment interface—controlled not by touchscreen, but by a rotary dial Mazda claims is safer while driving.

Pricing starts in the low $30,000s, with higher trims pushing into the mid-$40,000 range. It’s a premium price, but one that reflects premium build quality and features.

How It Stacks Up

The CX 50’s biggest rivals include the Toyota RAV4 (especially the Hybrid and TRD Off-Road variants), the Subaru Forester, and the Honda CR V. While those models might edge out the Mazda in cargo space or pricing at the base level, few can match the CX 50’s combination of design, dynamics, and premium feel. It’s also a more engaging drive—something few compact crossovers can honestly claim.

The Final Word

The 2025 Mazda CX 50 isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It’s for those who want a bit more from their SUV: more style, more spirit, and more connection to the road (or trail). With the addition of a hybrid powertrain, it’s also become a smarter choice for drivers looking to balance adventure with efficiency. Whether you’re carving canyon roads or carving out time for a weekend hike, the CX 50 feels ready for it all—without sacrificing the joy of driving.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE: LEARNING HAPPENS EVERYWHERE

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY CLIANDA A. FLORENCE & DR. CAROL ST. GEORGE PROFESSOR AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER

True learning doesn’t stop at the schoolhouse door, it thrives when families, neighbors, and communities come together as a village. As the African American educator Marva Collins once said, “Children must be taught how to think, not what to think.” That thinking begins at home, in everyday moments with loved ones.

When we think about education, many people picture the inside of a classroom with rows of desks, a whiteboard covered in notes, students writing or reading quietly. But while schools and classrooms are a huge part of where and how children learn, they’re not the whole story. In fact, some of the most meaningful learning happens outside classroom walls. Learning takes place in homes, neighborhoods, libraries, and indoor and outdoor community spaces.

Here in Monroe County and across the country, there’s a growing understanding that helping kids succeed in school isn’t just the responsibility of teachers or parents. It’s something we all can contribute to. If we really want our children to thrive, we need to support the families and communities around where they live, and not just during the school day, but every day, all year round. Based on a report by The Education Trust New York, in Rochester and Monroe County, the literacy crisis is urgent. Less than 40 % of Monroe County third graders read proficiently, and only 38 % of students across the county are considered “good readers.” Meanwhile, we learn from Literacy Rochester more than half of Rochester adults read only at a “basic” level, equivalent to sixth-grade expectations. These statistics make plain

that classrooms alone cannot close the literacy gap. The village must expand. “It takes a village to raise a child.” – Hillary Clinton (Quoted an African Proverb)

This familiar quote is truer today than ever before. It reminds us that no one person, no single school, and no one program can do it all alone. Education works best when everyone, schools, families, neighbors, businesses, and community organizations, comes together to support the whole child.

Learning Happens Everywhere

Kids are always learning. Whether it’s shopping for groceries with you, asking questions on a walk, figuring out how to share with a sibling, or discovering something new on a ride in the car, everyday moments help shape their development.

Of course, classroom learning matters deeply. But even the best teachers can’t reach their full impact if a child comes to school hungry, tired, anxious, or disengaged. A child’s ability to learn is shaped by more than just curriculum. Their support system, and their sense of safety, belonging and trust, and their confidence and self-esteem all contribute to their ability to learn.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela If we believe that, then we must also believe it’s worth investing in not just with money, but with time, attention, and care from every corner of the community.

Families Need Tools, Not Just Expectations

It is easy to say “parents need to be more involved in education,” but it is necessary to consider what that really means. Every family wants the best for their child, but involvement can look very different depending on the circumstances.

Some families can easily help with homework, attend school events, and keep close communication with teachers. Others are juggling multiple jobs, managing language barriers, or dealing with housing instability. That doesn’t mean they’re uninvolved — it means they may need support to stay connected to best help their children succeed in school and beyond.

This is where we, as a community, can step in. Maybe that means offering tutoring at local libraries, creating resource hubs in neighborhoods, or ensuring families have access to internet and tech tools. These kinds of practical supports can make a huge difference.

“Anyone who does anything to help a child in his life is a hero to me.” – Fred Rogers

You don’t have to be a teacher or a parent to make an impact. There are so many ways to make a difference. Even little things like a kind word, a ride to school, a donated book can help build the kind of environment where children thrive and learning is possible.

Education Is Bigger Than One Classroom

In Monroe County, some schools are flourishing, while others are navigating serious challenges. Often, these challenges

{ LETS GET L.I.T. }

“Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.” – Marian Wright Edelman

reflect broader issues like poverty, access to healthcare, transportation gaps, and housing insecurity, or limited access to technology. These conditions don’t respect school boundaries. They cut across districts and towns.

This is why we can’t think of education as only a school issue. In fact, it is a community-wide concern. If a child can’t get to school reliably or doesn’t have a quiet place to do homework, it’s not just that child’s trouble. It’s a systemic problem that the entire community should care about, not just the family or the school district.

“Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.” – Marian Wright Edelman

Investing in children’s education isn’t just about their future. Their success relates to everyone’s well-being. When kids do better, communities are stronger, safer, and more connected. When children have what they need, the whole community benefits.

Community Partnerships Help Make It Work

Thankfully, we currently are seeing more partnerships emerging that reflect this shared responsibility. These efforts include those offered through libraries, faith organizations, neighborhood groups, non-profits and others helping to fill gaps so children are supported from birth through graduation. These efforts often offer mentorship, access to supplies, and spaces for after-school programs are

ways of support and can help turn “it takes a village” from a slogan into real-life impact.

One great example for families is the ROC Reading Partners, a program run through the Warner School of Education at the University of Rochester. This free remote, evening reading initiative matches trained literacy volunteers with K–6 students in Rochester to lead weekly, smallgroup engaging reading sessions held over a zoom format. The purpose of ROC Reading Program is to support literacy learning, build confidence, and ignite a life-long love for reading and books. Families can learn more about the program here: ROC Reading Partners | Warner School of Education Let’s Get L.I.T. (Liberating Individuals Through Literary Texts), a Rochesterbased initiative founded by Clianda Florence, places family engagement and community literacy at its core. Florence’s podcast, afterschool programs, and other programming emphasize that reading is not punishment but possibility. Let’s Get L.I.T. recent collaboration with Sebrone O. Johnson & EDceptional is already helping families reclaim reading, storytelling, and literacy as shared practice and pride.

Here are everyday tools parents can use at home:

• Read aloud daily with your child— pause and ask open-ended questions.

• Write side-by-side: journal entries, grocery lists, letters to family.

• Encourage “micro-presentations” — have your child explain something

they learned.

• Use conversation: ask “why?” and “how?” to deepen thinking.

Learning Is a Shared Journey

At the end of the day, education is about more than academics. It’s about creating a space where every child feels safe, valued, and supported. That’s something everyone can contribute to. Let’s keep showing up for our kids. We need to keep working together to build a community where learning happens everywhere, in classrooms of course, but also in kitchens, parks, libraries, and so many other places. When we all work together to invest in education, we all benefit. And it truly does take a village.

Educator and philosopher Paulo Freire urged: “Education either functions as an instrument to bring about conformity or freedom.” When our village nurtures literacy, we choose freedom.

This is where “We Are One” by Frankie Beverly & Maze resonates deeply: when one struggles, we all feel it; when one grows, we all rise. In unity we claim that collective power. Let the city of Rochester and Monroe County, its schools, parents, mentors, and neighbors join arms because when one succeeds, we all celebrate.

WILL I WAKE TOMORROW?

BY CHRISTINE PIACENTINO

A case for Compassionate Drug Use.

Imagine going to bed every night, not sure if you will wake up in the morning. Unfortunately, this is my son Jon’s reality. He is 32 years old, considered an elder in his rare disease community. He utilizes nighttime BiPAP therapy to support his respiratory function and remains alert throughout the day. Jon does not have a tracheotomy, which would provide mechanical breathing, and doesn’t need his BiPAP during the day. His heart ejection fraction has dropped considerably to a level that would be considered dangerous for a normal, active person.

There is still considerable research to be conducted regarding the relationship between lung function and heart function in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

is our biggest fear. Jon and I have seen stability of his pulmonary function over the years, and in 2023, the drug was key in his being able to recover quickly from his 25-day ICU stay.

The only way to obtain the drug now is through compassionate use.

What is compassionate use?

and regulatory frameworks.

Why are compassionate use programs designed?

Compassionate use programs are designed to provide access to experimental treatments for patients who have exhausted approved options. These programs operate under strict regulatory oversight to ensure patient safety, informed consent, and data collection on efficacy and adverse effects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and similar agencies worldwide have established formal pathways for compassionate use, striking a balance between patient needs and the integrity of ongoing clinical research.

Jon attributes his pulmonary function to the trial drug that he has been taking for 19 years; currently, it is under review at the FDA. This review has now taken over a year to reach a final decision. We both wish the FDA would make a final decision. Participation in this trial required quarterly visits to the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. Now it requires an annual visit to Columbia University in NYC. Jon and I have traveled to NYC for 13 years. During our recent visit, we were informed that the trial is nearing its conclusion. Our previous visit to NYC will be in December. The conclusion of this trial

Compassionate use, also known as expanded access, is a regulatory mechanism that allows patients with serious or life-threatening conditions to access investigational drugs outside of clinical trials when no satisfactory alternative therapies are available. This article explores the concept of compassionate use through the lens of a clinical trial study subject who has been on an investigational drug for an extraordinary period—19 years. The case raises important considerations regarding patient welfare, ethical responsibilities,

Is it usual for a clinical trial study subject to take a drug for 19 years?

In most clinical trials, subjects participate for a finite period, typically ranging from several months to a few years. However, the scenario of a subject taking an investigational drug for 19 years is highly unusual and highlights unique challenges and considerations. The longevity of treatment suggests that the drug has been well-tolerated and potentially effective for the individual, but also raises questions about longterm safety, continued access, and the evolving regulatory landscape. This complexity underscores the importance of our collective efforts in addressing these unique challenges.

“Compassionate use programs are designed to provide access to experimental treatments for patients who have exhausted approved options.”

Clinical and Ethical Considerations

• Patient Welfare: Ensuring uninterrupted access to the drug is crucial for the subject’s health and quality of life, particularly if discontinuation could lead to deterioration. This emphasis on patient welfare underscores the human aspect of the issue and the need for compassionate use programs.

• Informed Consent: Ongoing informed consent is not just necessary; it’s crucial. New information about the drug’s risks and benefits may emerge over time, and the subject must remain apprised of any changes in their treatment status. This ongoing consent is a key part of the ethical considerations in compassionate use.

• Long-Term Monitoring: Prolonged drug administration requires vigilant monitoring for delayed adverse effects and assessment of sustained efficacy.

also require additional documentation and justification for continued access, especially as the investigational product transitions through various stages of development or approval.

Implications for Drug Development and Policy

This case underscores the importance of integrating compassionate use

limited treatment options. The case of a study subject receiving a drug for 19 years exemplifies both the promise and complexity of expanded access programs. Ongoing collaboration between patients, healthcare providers, sponsors, and regulators is essential to ensure that compassionate use meets both individual needs and broader ethical and scientific standards.

• Ethical Duty: Investigators and sponsors have an ethical responsibility to advocate for continued access, especially when the drug is not commercially available. Regulatory Pathways and Challenges Compassionate use requests must meet regulatory criteria, including a demonstration of medical necessity and the absence of alternative treatments. For a subject on a drug for 19 years, ongoing approval may depend on periodic review of clinical benefit and safety data. Regulatory agencies may

considerations into drug development planning. Pharmaceutical sponsors should anticipate the need for long-term access programs and collaborate with regulatory bodies to establish clear guidelines for these programs. Policymakers may need to address gaps in current regulations to support patients who depend on investigational therapies over extended periods.

Conclusion

Compassionate use is not just a lifeline, but a beacon of hope for patients with

In addition to fighting and applying for compassionate use. I am working with the drug development company and the FDA to ensure that the application is reviewed. It is my understanding that it is under review. The FDA has had the application for a year, and there has been minimal movement on the review. Jon and I have written to the Commissioner of the FDA and the Deputy Commissioner. My latest request was for a meeting. However, nothing will move forward until the government re-opens for business. Once the government is fully operational, I will resubmit my meeting request, as Jonathan’s life depends on it.

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

Inspiration & Story

ANNIE AND THE PETITE PROPS N PLAYYARD

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

What inspired you to create Petite Props N Playland?

I founded Petite Props N Playland with a simple but powerful goal: to bring joy, creativity, and connection into children’s lives through play. Soft play has been a true gift to our family. When my toddler son needed extra time to develop his motor skills, we discovered how impactful gentle, engaging environments could be. The padded surfaces, sensoryrich setups, and freedom to move at his own pace helped him build confidence and coordination in ways traditional play spaces could not offer.

That experience inspired my passion for creating safe, fun, and developmentally supportive soft play experiences for other families. Every child deserves a space where they can grow, explore, and simply be themselves. I’ve always believed in the magic of imaginative spaces, and I saw a real need for something mobile, customizable, and enriching, especially for babies and toddlers at events. Too often, the tiniest guests end up stuck in strollers or snuggled on laps with nothing to do or just trying to find their own little spot in a party made for bigger kids I wanted to change that by designing mobile play areas that invite movement, curiosity, and connection, giving even the youngest children a chance to be part of the celebration.

How did your own little ones influence the vision behind your business?

My kids were truly the heartbeat behind Petite Props N Playland. The idea was born from real moments with them, especially my son, who needed a little extra time to develop his motor skills. Soft play became more than just entertainment; it was a tool for growth. Watching him gain confidence, explore

of equipment I chose to the themes I dreamed up. This business is for them, and for every child who deserves a space to play, grow, and feel seen.

Can you share a little about your journey from idea to launching this mobile playland service?

freely, and stay happily engaged at events showed me how powerful these play environments could be. My older daughter also played a big role in shaping the vision. She’s incredibly creative and loved helping me plan her birthday parties: choosing colors, themes, and even helping set up. Her imagination and excitement reminded me how much joy children find in spaces designed just for them.

Their curiosity, energy, and unique needs influenced everything-from the types

It all started with a few DIY setups for my kids’ birthday parties: simple, joyful moments that sparked something bigger. As interest grew, I spent months researching, sourcing safe and vibrant commercialgrade equipment, and testing ideas with local families to make sure every detail was both fun and developmentally supportive. With a lot of love, prayer, and purpose, Petite Props N Playland officially launched, and I haven’t looked back since. Now, we’re entering an exciting new chapter. We’re expanding our services to include larger-scale mobile activities, party setups, and creative rentals that go beyond soft play. Our vision has grown and so has our name. We’re rebranding as Petite Party Co., a brand that reflects our commitment to creating magical, customizable experiences for little ones and their families. Stay tuned, there’s so much more joy to come!

Business & Services

What makes Petite Props N Playland different from other children’s party services in the Rochester area?

“A typical event is designed to be seamless, joyful, and completely hands-off for parents, so they can actually enjoy the celebration and make lasting memories with their little ones.”

We’re a mobile, fully customizable one-stop shop with a heart for child development. I don’t just drop off equipment… I craft immersive experiences tailored to each child’s age, interests, and abilities. Every setup is thoughtfully designed to be safe, engaging, and unforgettable. Our setups aren’t just for birthdays, they’re a hit at corporate events, family fun days, festivals, reunions, and even weddings! Anytime you need a separate (but super fun!) area for the littlest guests, we’ve got you covered.

Cleanliness and safety are top priorities. From the mats and fences to the tiniest ball pit ball, every piece of equipment is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before and after each event. I want families to feel confident that their children are playing in a space that’s not only fun, but also hygienic and secure.

While our Soft Play setups are perfect for kids 5 and under, we also offer custom experiences for children of all ages along with offering a wide inventory of Party Rentals. Whether it’s a Spa Party, Tea Party, or any theme you can dream up, I’ll work with you to create the perfect activity. Need party rentals, chairs, décor, personalized favors, or custom t-shirts? We’ve got that covered too. My goal is to make every celebration as magical and stress-free as possible.

Can you walk us through what a typical event setup looks like and the kinds of experiences families can expect?

A typical event is designed to be seamless, joyful, and completely hands-off for parents, so they can actually enjoy the

celebration and make lasting memories with their little ones. It all begins with prep work behind the scenes: cleaning and sanitizing every piece of equipment, designing custom decals, and organizing themed props and add-ons. Whether it’s a jungle adventure, princess castle, or cozy movie night, every detail is thoughtfully curated to match the party’s vibe.

On the day of the event, we arrive early to handle delivery and setup. Our soft play zones include foam blocks, tunnels, ball pits, and mini bounce houses, perfect for babies and toddlers to explore & play safely. We often add on themed décor, painting stations, spa kits, or sensory play areas to create a fully immersive experience. Everything is arranged with care to ensure it’s both visually stunning and developmentally enriching.

After the party, we take care of the breakdown and cleanup, so families don’t have to lift a finger. From start to finish, our goal is to create a stressfree experience where parents can be present, enjoy the moment, and watch their children laugh, play, and grow. Whether it’s a birthday, baby shower, or community event, Petite Parties Co. brings the magic, and makes sure every guest, big or small, feels part of the celebration!

You emphasize that each party is unique— what are some of the most creative or memorable setups you’ve designed so far? Some of my favorites include a “Dino Dig” party with fossil kits and excavation tools, a “Mini Spa Day” with robes and cucumber masks, and a “Build-a-Buddy” workshop where kids create their own

stuffed animals. I also loved designing a glow-in-the-dark playland with neon props and blacklight effect, it was a hit! Each party is unique, and I bring everything to your venue.

How do you balance making your setups both safe and developmentally enriching for kids ages 1–5?

I use age-appropriate, padded equipment and enclosed play zones to keep kids safe. Every activity is designed to support motor skills, coordination, and social interaction. I also make sure everything is sanitized and accessible for children of all abilities. Each setup comes with safety rules sign and sanitizer as well to keep things organized and clean. We also include a cute shoe rack to keep track of all the little shoes, so no one trips! Development & Impact

Your playlands are more than just fun—they support early childhood development. How do your setups encourage learning and growth for children?

Absolutely! Our playlands are designed with more than fun in mind. As a parent who’s experienced the importance of early intervention firsthand, I intentionally build each setup to support key developmental milestones. From a pediatric therapy point of view, soft play environments offer a rich opportunity for sensory stimulation, gross motor development, and imaginative play, all of which are essential for early learning. When children crawl through tunnels, climb foam blocks, or balance on soft surfaces, they’re working on core strength, coordination, and spatial awareness. These movements help develop motor

“It all started with a few DIY setups for my kids’ birthday parties: simple, joyful moments that sparked something bigger.”

planning and body control in a safe, lowimpact way. Pretend play stations, like mini castles or themed props, encourage language development, social interaction, and cognitive flexibility, which are foundational for emotional regulation and problem-solving. It’s incredibly rewarding to see families present and engaged, making memories while their little ones play, learn, and grow.

What kinds of feedback do you hear most often from parents about how their kids respond to your playlands?

Parents often tell me their kids are completely engaged and don’t want the party to end. I’ve heard things like “This was the best birthday ever!” and “My child came out of their shell today.” It’s incredibly rewarding to know I’m making a difference.

Why do you believe sensory stimulation, movement, and creative play are so important in today’s world where screen time is so common?

Screens are everywhere, but they can’t replace real-world experiences. Sensory play helps kids build neural connections, regulate emotions, and develop creativity. Movement and hands-on exploration are essential for healthy development, and I’m passionate about giving kids those opportunities.

Customization & Experience

You offer customizable themes, props, and even apparel and gifts. What’s been your favorite theme or concept to bring to life?

I love creating little details. Whatever the theme is, I try to match decals, favors, and

equipment design so it fits perfectly. We have the largest inventory of mobile Soft Play equipment in Rochester, so I try to match it to the theme. I love transforming a space into an interactive environment. These immersive environments let kids step into their imagination and make memories that last.

How do you work with parents to ensure their party vision comes to life stress-free?

I start with a consultation to understand their child’s interests and the party space. From there, I take care of everything: setup, takedown, cleaning, so parents can relax and enjoy the celebration. I’m here to make their vision a reality.

What’s your process for making sure each setup is not only fun but also safe, clean, and accessible for all kids?

I sanitize all equipment before and after each event, inspect everything for stability, and design layouts that accommodate mobility devices and sensory needs. Safety and inclusivity are non-negotiables for me.

Challenges & Growth

What challenges did you face when starting a children’s event-based business, and how did you overcome them?

Starting out wasn’t easy…finding the right equipment, navigating local regulations, and building brand awareness all came with their own challenges. But I leaned into the journey. I connected with other small business owners, showed up at vendor fairs, and invested in high-quality gear and thoughtful marketing. I make

it a point to be out in the community, meeting parents, listening to their needs, and sharing my passion for play. It’s a lot of working late into the night but in the end, I find it very rewarding.

I truly believe that if you’re committed to your vision, you can turn it into reality through hard work, persistence, and heart. There have been plenty of late nights, heavy lifting, and moments of doubt, but every bit of sweat is worth it when I see families light up with joy. Watching my idea come to life and knowing it brings happiness to children and their loved ones, well that’s the greatest reward. I’m also thankful to my husband and my family members and friends for stepping up when I needed them for setups, or babysitting, or just providing motivation and encouragement.

How has the community in Rochester and surrounding towns responded to Petite Props N Playland so far? Overall, I’m deeply grateful. The response was slow at first, but over time, more and more families have embraced the convenience, creativity, and joy that Petite Props N Playland brings to their celebrations. What’s been especially touching is the support I’ve received, not just from friends and family, but from total strangers who believed in my vision and cheered me on. That kind of encouragement means the world. Soft play and bespoke party customization are still growing concepts here in Rochester, and I know it’ll take time for them to fully take root. But I believe in this wholeheartedly. I see the impact it has on children and families, and I’m committed to taking it to the

“I founded Petite Props N Playland with a simple but powerful goal: to bring joy, creativity, and connection into children’s lives through play.”

next level, one magical event at a time.

Running a mobile service takes a lot of work, setup, takedown, customization. What motivates you to go above and beyond for every event?

Seeing children light up with joy, that’s my fuel. It’s in those wide-eyed smiles and giggles that I’m reminded why I do this. I believe childhood should be nothing short of magical, filled with

wonder, imagination, and moments that become lifelong memories. Every event I create is a chance to build that magic, to turn ordinary spaces into extraordinary worlds where kids feel seen, celebrated, and free to play. We only have one life, and the time we spend with our loved ones is the most precious gift we have. I believe we should embrace every opportunity to pour love: unapologetically and abundantly.

Children deserve to feel how deeply they’re cherished, not just on birthdays or holidays, but in the everyday magic we create around them. That’s what drives me. To help families celebrate love, connection, and the beautiful chaos of childhood.

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

{ INSIDE A WOMAN’S MIND } EMOTIONAL MATURITY

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY TRINA LYNN ALESSI

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you chose not to react and then later, you wonder where that person came from? Because the old you would have reacted with a good tell-off while tossing your hair for special effects. Welcome to the hidden land of emotional maturity. Not everyone has yet mastered the way in. Congratulations! This new found realization provides you with the ability to understand and manage emotions effectively to build healthy relationships, leading to a more fulfilling life. And when I say a more fulfilling life I mean a life without drama. A life without drama is a life with less stress period. Emotional Maturity is an ongoing process that involves selfawareness, self-control, and constructive responses to emotions and situations.

There are four types of various models of emotional maturity. Lets explore and break it down some.

1.) EMOTIONAL AWARENESS:

To recognize and understand your own feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Be honest with yourself about your emotional triggers. Create an awareness of how your actions can affect others. We all live in a self centered world where we are focused on ourselves and our own problems but there are 8.2 billion people that live on Earth, which proves this planet does not “revolve” specifically around any one of us.

2.) EMOTIONAL REGULATION:

When you manage your emotions in a healthy way, preventing them from overwhelming you. To respond to situations appropriately rather than reacting impulsively.

3.) EMPATHY: The ability to consider other people’s emotions and perspectives, when you have the capacity to understand and share the feelings of another.

4.) SOCIAL SKILLS: To navigate social situations effectively, build healthy relationships, communicate clearly and to resolve conflicts constructively.

To describe someone as emotionally mature means that they know who they are. That person is able to feel all of their emotions yet still react in a respectful manor that stays true to their feelings. At my age I think it is safe to say I have encountered a lot of different social scenarios in my life thus far. I refuse to sit at tables where I am uncomfortable. Whether it’s the topic of chosen conversation or the vibrational energy given out is “off”. I can read the crowd and easily pickup on toxic behaviors. It is my preference to not engage. I have zero issues politely excusing myself from the room. I have grown to realize that this is in fact a powerful act of self-respect. At times I wish my younger self had been more confident. More aware of how necessary it is to prioritize your emotional well being over social obligations. But this is how we all learn. From trial and error. To living and growing both outwardly and inwardly.

There will be those times when you may slip. Let’s face it. Some people really know how to test the waters and get under our skin. There are even those ones who seem to do it deliberately to get a reaction. It is unreasonable to expect perfection from yourself. Emotional maturity is an on going process. There will be times when you waver. Even though you

may have your doubts on occasions, you will feel a greater sense of stability in your emotional responses to certain social situations. It creates a grounded solidness within yourself internally. The first step is knowing our own patterns and to make a conscious effort to change. No offense to anyone at all, but I cringe when I witness emotionally immature women whom are older than me reacting in a negative childish light. The hear me roar, I am right in your face and will bite your head off confrontational types. I actually feel bad for them as they are expressing emotionally stunted behaviors. Individuals who were raised in environments where vulnerability was unsafe may not have developed the skills to handle their own emotions in an effective or positive manner. It is important to set clear boundaries with those who exhibit an immature outlook. Accept the fact that you cannot change another person’s lack of emotional maturity however understand that you can change your own response to it.

Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle said it best: “Anybody can become angry, that is easy. But to be angry with the right person and to the right degree and at the right time and for the right purpose and in the right way, that is not within everybody’s power and that is not easy.” This was perhaps one of his most famous quotes in regards to emotional intelligence. He was far ahead of his time. In my honest opinion emotional maturity is a super power. It is ultimately handling life’s challenges with grace and resilience which in turn helps us connect deeply with ourselves and those around us.

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

THE BEST LUXURY? A GOOD RHYTHM

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY CHELSEA BOE

Time is the greatest luxury you’ll find and a good rhythm at home and when you travel is how you’ll feel it, everyday. Creating rhythm in your home through organization and decor leads to an everyday upscale feel (and once you have it at home, it follows you everywhere. We promise!) Let’s dive into all the ways rhythm is the secret to luxe living. You’ll know you are truly curating your space when you are able to slow down. When everything is in place, getting ready or preparing meals feels cohesive and refined. Everything should be functionally placed so it’s easy to access and utilize. Properly thinking through organization and function makes everyday tasks feel easy and curated. The gift of operating at the slowest pace of your nervous system is something that comes from arranging your home and life in a way that allows it. Always listen to your own capacity and build your home around that.

Stylistic organization cuts down on the mental capacity it takes for everyday habits. When taking care of yourself is as easy as breathing, it’s not longer a luxury but a way of living. Plus, having gorgeous organization is one more way to add beauty to your life. This gives you the ability to stay relaxed rather than having to mentally tune in. The ability to thrive in a routine that allows for self expression and joyinstead of narrowed thoughts and focus that can’t lift. Create rhythms that allow you to be approachable and interactive as you go about your day.

Examples of how organization gives you time back:

-With towels of all sizes organized in all the primary spaces like each bathroom, the hall closet, kitchen spaces, and maybe even a spot in the bedroom you have what you need on hand at all times. It’s easy to pop one into the towel warmer or dryer, they are nearby when it’s time for skincare, or right by the sink when doing a hand scrub.

-Kitchen items styled and stored in a minimalist, easy to access fashion create peace every morning.

-Easy to access supplies and ingredients in organizers that feel sturdy and sleek make every experience a place to slow down and enjoy (even if it’s just scooping coffee).

Creating rhythm in your home through organization allows you to choose your experience; whether that’s all wooden

containers or all glass canisters, it’s about what you love.

With decor that reflects you, you are given the gift of existing in your ideal space that centers you and your family. A properly decorated space can reflect your history, the spaces you find relaxing, what you admire and desire for life, and all the ways you’ve achieved what you wanted.

Here’s how decor can reflect you:-sports memorabilia collected and earned throughout your lifetime elegantly displayed showcasess your history

-art bought during travels displays your favorite memories of family vacations

-sculptures and decor displayed from artists that inspire you or inspired by places you hope to visit is an everyday reminder of how much life there is left to grow into.

Once your space is decorated to reflect you, it is an everyday model of the things that increase your oxytocin, dopamine, and sense of belonging.

When you have a rhythm that allows you to be self expressive…. you feel self trust, you feel supported by your home, by yourself, and by anyone who helps curate your home. Every choice you make for your home… every rug, artwork, or curtain… every single choice matters. This ability to feel supported, to slow down, and to look to the future while enjoying every second of even the little moments is how to create a lifestyle that feels fulfilling and refined.

ACKNOWLEDGING YOUR INNER WISDOM

BY LISA WAGNER

Unleash Your Creative Nurturer

Throughout history, women have been ignoring their instincts; their gut feelings. We have been conditioned by those who wish to dominate and control us that we do not know what is inherently best for us. That we are too emotional to make rational decisions. That is the patriarchy and human history-long misogyny talking; not your actual cellular knowing. Women’s entire being know deeply what is needed in almost all situations. Especially those that require compassion, curiosity and healing. It is also humble enough to search for answers and to be curious enough to be willfully vulnerable in the learning. Once you begin to acknowledge your inner wisdom without second guessing or analyzing it, you truly unleash your creative nurturer that resides in all of us. Women throughout history repeatedly shows us how true that is.

I recently saw an Instagram reel by Crystal Dawn Alchemy, (@ crystaldawnalchemy4), where she educates us about Mary Magdalene’s teachings and her story. She quotes the found teachings of Mary as saying, “There is no such thing as sin.” Crystal points out what all of us women can probably sense; that “sin” was used by men in power to control women’s bodies, minds, speech, movements, etc. for centuries. That oppressive energy is beginning to crumble as we have begun to tap into our own inner and inherent power without fear in recent years. The patriarchy is in overdrive damage control mode to maintain their power, but many of us can feel that slowly slipping away. It now invites us to ponder what awaits

us with a rising matriarchy and how do we prepare for our long-awaited rise to equanimity?

Growing up in the Methodist church, Mary Magdalene was always portrayed as a woman who sinned so greatly that she needed a savior. That she was weak without that male guidance and Jesus’ willingness to save her soul from demons and eternal damnation. In truth, she was the Apostle of the Apostles. A leader, a healer and a truth-teller. Crystal states in her post’s caption how this newly acquired knowledge of Mary awoke the cells in her body to what it was she always knew in her deepest being; that she is filled with a divine purpose on this earthly plane. The patriarchy doesn’t want you to feel that inherent knowing. They diminish us to maintain their fragile power. We are the ones who understand that it only leads to suffering. That we are meant to lead, heal and nurture one another’s light.

For decades, I, like most women, suppressed my feelings and my opinions to be a well-liked, or a “good girl.” To never choose the creative path or one that would be perceived as weak because it was “too emotional.” As a young teen, I began to listen to the voices of feminists like Georgia O’Keefe, Frida Kahlo, Jane Fonda, Gloria Steinem and the like. They stood proudly in their womanhood and their passion for equality, bodily autonomy and selflove. O’Keefe was quoted as saying, “I decided to start anew—to strip away what I had been taught, to accept as true my own thinking. This was one of the best times of my life.” To not be held down any longer by constraints placed

upon her and expectations by the public and possibly within her relationship and subsequent marriage to art dealer and photographer, Alfred Stieglitz until his death, served O’Keefe well. She became prolific and formidable in the art world on her own merit. She never felt the need or attraction to attention. She craved privacy and time to do her work. Upon Stieglitz’s death in 1946, O’Keefe moved out west to the wideopen landscape of Taos, New Mexico, to create important works that prove she was a serious figure in American art. That work exemplifies her soul’s expansion and ability to stand on her own with strength to escape the mundane nature of day-to-day life; something men are traditionally encouraged to do, while women are then expected to support their efforts to do so.

“I decided to start anew—to strip away what I had been taught, to accept as true my own thinking. This was one of the best times of my life.” Georgia O’Keefe Frida Kahlo was another such artist who lived in the shadows of her husband, Diego Rivera, a well-known muralist and fresco painter. Yet, she carved out a space for her voice and her artistic vision to be expressed. Her first name was “Magdalena,” and her original spelling for “Frida” was the Germanic “Freida,” meaning “peace.” Kahlo changed her name’s spelling to possibly disassociate from the then Nazi Germany origins, as she believed in equality and social justice. She and nine of her female friends formed an informal group called the “Cachuchas,” literally meaning “baseball caps” to discuss the patriarchal Mexican government and rejected its conservative values. Her bus accident

{ A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE } { MANIFESTING YOUR

“Throughout history, women have been ignoring their instincts; their gut feelings. We have been conditioned by those who wish to dominate and control us that we do not know what is inherently best for us.”

at the age of 18 also helped to shape her, as her bed-ridden state was the impetus to her art career. Her pieces represented life, death and what was her life’s difficult yet, as she deemed it, beautiful reality. She never shied away from it and instead, used her work to be ever present in every aspect of her life, including her immense physical and mental suffering. Being bedridden for much of her adult life, she was quoted as saying, “I am not dead, and I have a reason to live. That reason is painting.” Her final solo art exhibit happened one year before her death. She came by ambulance and lied in a hospital bed for the entirety of the show, as she had been forbidden by her doctors to leave her bed. Kahlo was masterful at finding workarounds to express her experiences, her heart and the ideals that mattered most to her.

“I am not dead, and I have a reason to live. That reason is painting.”- Frida Kahlo

On days that we do not feel as though we have the strength or energy to live fully in our own being, we can use these examples of divine feminine energy to buoy our spirits and rise up when we feel weighted down by the beliefs thrown upon us by male-derived ideals meant to control and weaken our resolve. I look to my little granddaughters who will look to myself and all their female ancestors and community to be the examples they will be defined by until they discover their own paths. It is our responsibility to acknowledge and celebrate our inner strength, resilience and cellular knowing so that they may grow to be our leaders who embrace creative thinking, compassion and empathy. We are the fertile ground they

will walk upon and draw from for their identity and wisdom.

Today, right in this very moment, stand alongside your heart with that inner knowing that you are enough. You are what the patriarchy fears and wishes to banish to maintain control over all things. Because feminine energy is ruled by love, you are what will change the tides of suffering. You, my dear one, are the change we all seek. Proudly stand in that light and take a deep, soul-bathing breath knowing you will be a part of the evolution this world is waiting for as our female ancestors before us charted and excavated for our soul’s growth and inner wisdom. The creative nurturer that you are is patiently standing by to be summoned to become the leader of the matriarchal revolution.

PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGH

It doesn’t take much. A difficult email. A quick edge in someone’s voice. Traffic that just will not move. Suddenly you notice your breath is shallow and your chest feels tight. Stress rises quickly, even in ordinary moments, and sometimes there is no way to step away. But we always have our breath, waiting to help us return to calm.

Welcome, and welcome back to Breathing Space, where we slow down, reconnect with our body, and breathe. I’m Meg, LMHC, a bodycentered psychotherapist, retreat leader, and end-of-life doula, offering you monthly nervous system regulation techniques. In addition to these monthly tools, I also guide retreats that create space for deeper nervous system healing, like our one-day ketamine retreat in Central New York on November 21, our Puerto Rico KetamineAssisted Psychotherapy retreat January 11–17, 2026, and our Women’s Mystical Ireland retreat April 13–23, 2026.

BY MEG TOBIN

immediate and discreet, something we can use while standing in line or waiting for a meeting to start. One of my favorite tools for those moments is called the physiological sigh.

dioxide. The longer exhale signals safety and calm. Just one to three rounds can bring a noticeable shift. When stress rises, our breath often becomes fast and shallow. That is the nervous system preparing to fight or flee. Any intentional breath interrupts that pattern. The physiological sigh does it quickly, helping your body return to balance.

After practicing, pause for a moment. Notice what changed. Did your shoulders drop? Did your heartbeat slow? Did your thoughts feel a little clearer? Small practices like this can bring calm that ripples into the rest of your day.

The physiological sigh is a gentle, reliable way to relax in the moment. Next time you feel tension building, double inhale and sigh it out. Let your body remember how to come back to ease.

Stress often shows up right in the middle of daily life. Longterm practices like meditation or walking are wonderful supports, but sometimes we need something

This simple technique involves a double inhale followed by a long exhale. The first inhale is deep and full. The second inhale is shorter, just enough to top off the lungs. This reinflates tiny air sacs so the body can release more carbon

What do you notice when you try it? I would love to hear. Visit me at breathingspacepsychotherapy. com or drop me a note at meg@ therapycny.com.

TRAVELING WITH SHAUNA

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

WINE, WELLNESS & WANDERLUST

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BY SHAUNA DIXON

Wine, Wellness & Wanderlust: Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Travel

There’s something magical about fall. The air turns crisp, the leaves catch fire with color, and suddenly, cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice feel like essential travel gear. While most people think of summer as “vacation season,” those in the know realize autumn might just be the best time to go.

Fewer crowds, better prices, and destinations glowing in golden light make October the perfect month to wander. For women especially, this season brings a balance of beauty, reflection, and adventure. The perfect mix of wine, wellness, and wanderlust.

Sip

& Stay: Wine

Country Escapes Around the World

If fall had a flavor, it would taste like a glass of wine at harvest time. Luckily, there’s no shortage of destinations, near and far, where you can savor that taste of the season.

or cruise along the Danube or Rhine Rivers with AmaWaterways, where themed wine cruises pair tastings and vineyard tours with the stunning scenery of Austria, Germany, and Hungary.

And for something sun-soaked, swap the foliage for the vineyards of South Africa’s Cape Winelands. October marks spring there, with picture-perfect weather and endless glasses of Chenin Blanc under the African sky.

wellness resorts in St. Lucia, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic blend ocean views with luxury spa experiences and island-inspired healing rituals. Or take it further with Costa Rica’s rainforest retreats, where yoga decks overlook waterfalls and the only alarm clock you’ll hear is the sound of toucans.

For those craving something truly transformative, Bali and Thailand offer world-class wellness resorts focused on balance, mindfulness, and renewal. Imagine starting your day with meditation overlooking rice terraces and ending with a sunset massage on the beach - the ultimate selfcare trip.

Reset & Recharge: Wellness Retreats for Every Traveler

Start close to home in the Finger Lakes, where harvest festivals, lakefront inns, and boutique wineries create an effortless weekend escape. Or head north to Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, a charming wine region with cozy B&Bs and award-winning ice wines.

If you’re ready to dream bigger, autumn is harvest season in Europe, too. Stroll the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, sip Pinot Noir in France’s Burgundy region,

Fall is nature’s reminder to slow down - and that makes it the perfect time to travel with intention. Wellness travel continues to be one of the fastest-growing travel trends, especially among women seeking a reset before the holidays.

Here in the U.S., a yoga retreat in the Adirondacks or a spa weekend in Sedona can do wonders for your spirit. But why stop there?

Head south to the Caribbean, where

Chase the Colors: Fall Escapes Near & Far

Of course, you can’t talk about October travel without mentioning fall foliage. The Northeast’s colors are world-famous - Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine all deliver postcard-worthy views, and Lake Placid is a local favorite for leaf-peeping hikes.

But the world is full of spectacular fall landscapes if you’re willing to go a little farther. Experience the fiery vineyards of Provence, the golden valleys of Germany’s Black Forest, or the storybook castles of Bavaria on a fall AmaWaterways river cruise.

If you prefer a bit of warmth with your autumn glow, escape to the Caribbean islands. October is shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds and better rates. Or explore the vibrant markets and

{ TRAVELING WITH SHAUNA }

“As you cozy up with cider and candlelight this fall, don’t forget now is the time to plan your next escape.”

historic cities of Portugal and Spain, where fall temperatures are perfect for sightseeing without the summer crowds.

And for the ultimate bucket-list view, head to Japan in late October and November, when the country transforms into a sea of crimson maples. A sight every traveler should see once in their lifetime.

Looking Ahead

As you cozy up with cider and candlelight this fall, don’t forget now is the time to plan your next escape. Holiday trips and spring break vacations are already booking up fast, and the best flights, cruises, and resorts always go first.

Whether you’re craving a warm winter getaway to the Caribbean, dreaming of a European Christmas market river cruise,

or already picturing your spring break in Mexico or Greece, fall is the perfect season to get inspired - and get ahead. Because travel isn’t just about where you go; it’s about how it makes you feel. And this fall? It’s time to feel rested, recharged, and ready for what’s next.

Insider Tip: Fall is one of the best times to score lower rates and fewer crowds- not just for leaf-peeping here in the U.S., but also for Europe and the Caribbean. Book early for the holidays or spring break, and you’ll thank yourself later.

If this has you daydreaming about your next getaway, let’s make it happen! I’ll help you find the perfect destination, plan every detail, and take the stress out of travel so all you have to do is show up and enjoy. Contact me any time to start planning your next adventure!

Want more travel inspiration, insider tips, destination ideas, and first dibs on exclusive experiences?

Join Shauna’s exclusive Facebook community, Travel by Shauna (@ travelbyshauna), to join others who love to travel share stories, ideas, and destination inspiration.

About the Author

Shauna Dixon is a Rochester-based travel advisor who helps women and families turn dream vacations into stress-free realities. She believes every woman deserves a trip that feeds her soul. Whether it’s a weekend in the Finger Lakes, a tropical getaway, or a bucket-list journey abroad. She can be reached at MoonAndBackEscapes.com, sdixon@ dreamvacations.com, or 585-542-8821.

3 THINGS IF YOU SIT

I was recently interviewed by Molly Boeder Harris, founder of The Breathe Network which supports sexual trauma survivors with trauma-informed, slidingscale, health and healing resources and offers education and training for healthcare workers, healing professionals, and advocacy organizations on best practices in trauma-informed care. Here’s an excerpt from the interview, and you can view the whole thing on instagram @penfieldyogatherapy

Molly:

Let’s jump right in. There’s so much research and conversation happening about yoga for trauma healing, and yoga therapy seems to be something deeper or different than a typical 200-hour teacher training. What does it mean to study to become a yoga therapist?

Kaitlyn: Great question. So yes, a 200-hour training makes you a yoga teacher—the kind you might see at a gym or studio. Fun fact: some pilot licenses require fewer than 200 hours, which always makes me laugh! But to become a yoga therapist, it’s an 800hour training and credentialing process through the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT). Anyone interested can visit iayt.org to find therapists, schools, or research.

Molly: Can you share a bit more about that training? I’m curious whether yoga therapy is inherently trauma-informed or if that’s an additional area of study.

Kaitlyn: I studied with Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy, which is inherently traumainformed. Yoga is about awareness, and people walking through our doors—

BY KAITLYN VITTOZZI

whether in person or on Zoom— have experienced trauma. The yoga therapy community is embracing that reality. Schools are teaching traumainformed approaches, but I don’t want to overpromise that every yoga therapist practices that way.

Our training focused on themes like befriending the body, awareness, acceptance, and choice. The body isn’t something to fix—it’s something to listen to. We help people tune into their own inner wisdom and make choices about how they want to live. Everyone, whether or not they’ve experienced trauma, deserves to befriend their body and rest in present-moment awareness.

Molly: I love that. So many of those principles—choice, agency, autonomy— could be infused into all yoga spaces, not just trauma-specific ones. It’s surprising that it’s still not standard. Even small shifts, like offering options in savasana, can be transformative.

Kaitlyn: Absolutely. And I always remind yoga teachers: you only know what you know until you know something more. Sometimes it’s just about gentler, more inclusive language. I don’t want teachers to feel overwhelmed—self-study and reflection are part of yoga ethics. If we stay humble and transparent, we can repair when harm happens.

Molly:Exactly. When students feel safe enough to share feedback, that’s a sign of trust. The real learning often happens through mistakes and repair.

Kaitlyn: Yes! I used to get defensive early in my teaching. Now, if someone

says something was hard for them, I can soften into it and use it as a bridge for healing.

Molly:I love that. Let’s talk flexibility. Sometimes people want trauma-informed scripts, but the truth is you often have to pivot in real time. How do you stay flexible when plans change?

Kaitlyn: That happens constantly. I might plan an active, heat-building class, then realize half the group is pregnant—so we shift. Having a theme helps anchor me. For example, if the theme is honesty, then being honest might mean scrapping the plan.

I think yoga is about presence, not perfection. You can teach the same “boring” class ten weeks in a row—if it’s led with intention, it will still serve your students. The nervous system actually craves repetition and predictability.

Molly: That’s so true. Predictability allows people to relax into their bodies instead of focusing on what’s next.

Kaitlyn: Exactly. The goal is safety, not novelty.

Molly: You’re also very collaborative— working with other healing professionals. How does that interdisciplinary approach show up in your work?

Kaitlyn: I love that question. Healing takes more than one hour of therapy a week. I collaborate with therapists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, and others. I’ve learned that healing often happens when modalities overlap.

“I started teaching body-neutral classes, and that led to deeper work in eating disorder recovery.”

For example, I once tried to “fix” shoulder arthritis through yoga alone. It wasn’t until I added meditation, chiropractic, and massage that I truly started healing. Collaboration opens doors personally and professionally.

Molly:Yes! And it’s humbling to say, “I don’t know, but I know someone who does.”

Kaitlyn: Exactly. It’s about curiosity and community.

Molly: You also specialize in eating disorders and perinatal mood disorders. Could you share about the intersection of sexual trauma and eating disorders— and how yoga supports that healing?

Kaitlyn: Both experiences can cause disconnection from the body. People might numb themselves or alter their bodies to feel safer. Yoga helps gently reintroduce awareness—starting small, like “what does it feel like to move my hand?”

I started teaching body-neutral classes, and that led to deeper work in eating disorder recovery. We often begin with neutrality rather than positivity. You don’t have to love your body right away. Just noticing, “This is my arm, it moves,” is enough. From there, color and aliveness return to the body.

Molly: That distinction is so helpful— neutrality before positivity.

Kaitlyn: Exactly. It’s realistic and compassionate.

Molly: And how did you begin working

with the perinatal community?

Kaitlyn: It started during the pandemic. New parents were isolated—no playgroups, no support. I was hesitant at first, but training showed me it’s really about making space for parents to reconnect with themselves. I work with them individually and as couples. Even joyful parenting can create disconnection between partners. Yoga helps them find presence again.

Molly: That’s beautiful. You remind me of one of my teachers, Kathy Kain, who talks about expanding her scope as clients brought new needs. I see that same openness in your approach.

Kaitlyn: Thank you. I think that openness is essential. We have so many resources at our fingertips now—it’s easier than ever to keep learning.

Molly: Yes! And before we wrap up, I want to ask about something personal. You once posted that when you’re stressed, you turn to movement, breath, and your dog. Can you share what that means for you?

Kaitlyn: (Laughs) Yes! My dog, Tortellino—like the pasta—helps me ground. Susan Piver, a Buddhist teacher, writes that when we’re sad or anxious, we’re usually longing for something else. Her advice? “If you have a cat or dog, go pet them.” That presence—hand on fur, feeling life—it’s instant grounding. It says, “I’m here. I’m safe. I’m not alone.” Nature does that too.

Molly: That’s so lovely. Mondays might have a better reputation if we all made

space for play and presence like that!

Kaitlyn: Absolutely!

Molly: As we close, our theme is Shades and Shapes of Healing—the idea that healing is nonlinear and personal. How are you holding your own healing these days?

Kaitlyn: For me, healing is about pausing and noticing. Asking, “What am I feeling right now?” and “Where do I feel it in my body?” Letting it be there—without trying to fix or explain it. Sometimes that’s all.

Molly: That’s beautiful. Allowing emotions to move through without needing a story can be so freeing.

Kaitlyn: : Exactly. It’s about letting feelings be untamed—letting them exist without suppression.

Molly: Thank you, Kaitlyn. Your work is so compassionate and wise. I’m grateful to share your voice and your perspective with our community.

Kaitlyn: Thank you, Molly. I’ve never had a tech issue met with so much grace and kindness—it truly shows that The Breathe Network embodies its values.

Molly: That means so much. Thank you again, and wishing you a beautiful weeken

LOOK THROUGH THE LENS OF RADIANCE

BY LORI BRUTON

Rise Up and Sparkle

When I walked into the Fancy Frock Thrift Boutique one afternoon to check in on owner Sandy Arena after a health challenge, I didn’t expect my life to shift. But sometimes, the most unexpected invitations are the ones that change everything.

I had been stuck in a rut, wrestling with self-sabotage, doubt, fear, procrastination, loneliness, and the residue of toxic relationships. I’d overcome many obstacles, but I knew I needed to do something new. Not just to leave the house, but to step out of my comfort zone.

Sandy invited me to participate in the Miss Worth More Nation pageant. Who? Me? I didn’t think I was qualified. Isn’t that just for young, pretty girls?

No. It’s not about that. This pageant is for girls and women who’ve experienced foster care, trauma, or life challenges. Sandy knew my story about how I traveled through trauma to transformation. She believed my voice mattered. And so, I said YES.

me transportation since I didn’t have a reliable car to get there.

the eyes of others who saw me clearly. I stood on that stage, microphone in hand, and delivered this introduction:

“Words have power.

That’s why I became an author, speaker, and travel writer.

That yes was worth more than I imagined. Participating in Miss Worth More Nation boosted my confidence, elevated my self-image, and gave me a platform where my voice was heard and my message mattered. It took courage, strength, stamina, and preparation but this community supported me every step of the way, even providing

This pageant isn’t about judgment. It’s about celebration. Every girl is crowned Miss Worth More Nation. You learn to present, hold a microphone, and share your message, hopes, and dreams in front of a live audience.

BY KAITLYN VITTOZZI

Sandy gifted me dresses and a gown from Fancy Frock. Brandon Vick took professional photos. I received a crown and sash. I felt not just worthy, but beautiful, wanted, accepted, and valued.

I looked through the lens of radiance, not just Brandon’s camera, but through

I use words to equip, encourage, and empower people of all ages.

My favorite book is The Living Word of God because it brings life, vision, hope for the future, and power in the present.

My articles, speeches, and books are stories about HOPE and TRANSFORMATION.

A defining moment for me was writing The LORI Factor: Live the Life You Were Born to Live, foreword written by Les Brown.

I am Lori Bruton from Western New York, proud Mom of two adult sons. My essentials are faith, family, fun, and natural wellness.

When I’m not writing, you’ll find me on the water paddling in a kayak or on a boat. Full throttle, Baby!”

The audience listened. I was not interrupted. Applause erupted. My voice made a difference.

What does ‘WORTHY’ mean to me?

“You look great in that dress; great style on you. Purple is a gorgeous color on you. Such a moving and motivational speaker. Graceful. Radiating.”

• W = WORDS

• O = OPPORTUNITY

• R = REWARDING

• T = TRANSFORMATION

• H = HEART

• Y = YOUNG LIVING

WORDS have power. Speak life over yourself. Don’t let others’ opinions become your reality. The Word of Truth is found in God’s Word. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Read what He says about you. Those are the most powerful words of all.

OPPORTUNITY will present itself and it’s up to you to say yes. Right opportunities change lives. Raise your awareness of who and what are around you. Find like-minded people and mentors who believe in you and encourage you.

REWARDING means you had a valuable experience that was beneficial to you and others. It’s wonderful to receive recognition and awards, but the internal reward is the best. Rewarding experiences come when you show up, take action, and embrace what’s worthwhile even when it’s hard.

TRANSFORMATION happens inside and out. Wearing a gown was exciting, but the inner shift was deeper. I traveled to new places within myself and beyond.

HEART-led living, guided by the Holy Spirit, creates harmony, gratitude, and a larger vision. The mission of this pageant left footprints on my heart. Connecting with those precious children who have overcome

trauma and seeing their confidence and bravery on stage inspired me.

YOUNG LIVING is my “Y” (why). Their mission of wellness, purpose, and abundance aligns with mine. I packed Ningxia Red, Valor for courage, and Peppermint to stay alert. Their heart for children mirrors mine. The way they harness the power of nature to enrich humanity and care for people and the planet is empowering.

Together, Worth More Nation and Young Living are laying a foundation and raising a generation that is free to thrive and tap into their true greatness. Partnering with them opened doors I never imagined.

Jim Rohn said, “Service to others leads to greatness.”

Want to discover the power within you?

1. Believe in yourself

2. Choose optimism over overwhelm 3. Stir up courage and confidence You are worthy.

Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

The encouragement panel’s words gave me a new lens:

“You look great in that dress; great style on you. Purple is a gorgeous color on you. Such a moving and motivational speaker. Graceful. Radiating. Your voice is beautiful and encouraging. You have a captivating personality.

Confident, peaceful, faith-filled courage keeper. Great stage presence.”

Purple is my favorite color. It represents royalty. Now I know my voice is pleasant to others’ ears. I used to hesitate because of body image issues. But I chose love and acceptance. Because it’s not just about me, it’s about how my presence and message can inspire others.

It’s no accident that you’re reading this. You are loved and accepted. Your voice matters. No matter what you believe or what you’ve been through, open your mind and heart.

If I made a difference for you today, I’d be honored if you shared your comment wherever you see me on social media.

With love, gratitude, and a big thank you to Kelly Breuer and Sandy Arena for giving me a place to rise up and sparkle. May this message touch hearts and open doors for me to speak, write, be a podcast guest, and invitations to soul-aligned collaborations.

MEET TOASTER STRUDEL — A TRUE LITTLE FIGHTER!

Toaster Strudel, a brave and loving cat with a heart full of courage, has captured the hearts of everyone who’s met him. Recently, this sweet boy endured a traumatic injury that left a section of his lower jaw missing — most likely from an unfortunate encounter with another animal. Despite the odds, Toaster Strudel’s will to live has shined through every challenge, proving that even the smallest souls can have the biggest strength.

After his rescue, Toaster Strudel was immediately taken into veterinary care, where the team worked tirelessly to stabilize him. He underwent delicate and complex surgery to repair the damage to his jaw, allowing him to eat, groom, and one day, play like any other happy cat again. The road to recovery hasn’t been easy — but Toaster Strudel’s resilience and gentle spirit have inspired everyone around him. Every day, he grows stronger, purrs a little louder, and continues to show just how determined he is to heal.

BY THE ACS TEAM

includes follow-up appointments, specialized nutrition, medications, and physical therapy to help him regain strength and confidence. The financial burden of this care is significant, and that’s where compassionate animal lovers like

him closer to living the healthy, happy life he’s fought so hard for.

Toaster Strudel is a reminder of why we fight for animals who can’t speak for themselves. His story is one of survival, hope, and the healing power of community. When you donate, you’re not just helping one cat — you’re joining a movement of kindness and compassion that saves lives every single day.

you can make all the difference.

While Toaster Strudel’s progress has been nothing short of miraculous, his journey to full health is far from over. His ongoing medical care

Your contribution — no matter how big or small — will directly help cover the cost of Toaster Strudel’s surgery, follow-up care, and rehabilitation. With your help, he can continue receiving the medical support and love he deserves. Every dollar brings

Together , w e can give Toaster Strudel the second chance he deserves. Let’s make sure this brave boy continues to heal, grow stronger, and know what it feels like to be safe and loved.

Donat e toda y and be part of his healing journey: https:// animalcaresanctuary. networkforgood.com/ projects/259427-toaster-strudel

Because every act of kindness — no matter how small — helps build a world where animals like Toaster Strudel can thrive again.