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Zahra Finley

FOUNDER & CEO, ZESTY COMPASS

COLLECTION

WOMEN ARE CHANGING THE FACE OF BUSINESS THE QUIET POWER OF REINVENTION

TRINA BEDIAKO

FromtheEditor: Shelley M. Shockley

WOMEN ARE CHANGING THE FACE OF BUSINESS

An unstable economy and fluctuations in the business world have forced many people, particularly women to look outside the box for employment. The resultwe're killing it! Let's take a look at the numbers:

● There are 14 million woman-owned businesses in the U.S

● 2.1 million businesses are owned by Black women

● Black women are the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S., representing 10% of all entrepreneurs

● Women owned businesses produce $2.7 trillion annually

● Women owned businesses employ more than 12.2 million

In short, women rock when it comes to business and in many ways, we are helping to keep this economy moving.

Wells Fargo commissioned The 2024 Impact of WomenOwned Businesses report which highlights the success of women, but states, “Despite this impressive impact, women still lag behind men in these metrics. Women do not own as many businesses as men do nor do their businesses generate as many jobs or as much revenue as men do.”

The number one indicator preventing women from excelling at the same rate as men continues to be disparities in access to capital, particularly for women of color. Additionally, many women are starting these new ventures while working a full-time job, balancing households, and in some cases assisting or outright caring for aging parents. Yet, still we rise to the challenge for a number of reasons particularly following the pandemic and our gains still miss the mark.

So, the key is for women to continue to press forward and for the world to realize that making childcare affordable, improving access to capital, and continuing programs tailored to the specific needs of different groups will allow women-owned businesses—especially those owned by WOC—to realize their potential. That could be worth billions if not trillions of dollars, and millions of jobs—making a major impact on the economy

As I work on building out my own entrepreneurial venture, these statistics give me hope and strengthen my desire to move forward no matter the obstacles.

Our columnist Marsha Walker Eastwood's piece “The Quiet Power of Reinvention,” speaks to the changes seasoned women experience as they venture into new areas. I don't want to give away what she has eloquently described, but if you are planning a new business or just a new phase in your life it is well worth the read.

In this edition we highlight two female-led companies in non-conventional industries. Zahra Finley and Trina Bediako were both raised in households where a foundation of excellence and resilience was present. The strong foundation resulted in women focused and driven to success.

Finley began life in Alliance, Ohio where her intentional excellence led to a scholarship to a prestigious prep school in Pennsylvania and later a scholarship to Virginia Tech to study biology, before returning home and completing her bachelor's degree in business and marketing. She would build a successful career in corporate America before returning to her first love –science, the science of wine. She is the Founder and CEO, Zesty Compass Collection, a wine manufacturing and distribution firm. Her accomplishments in this industry are remarkable for a Black woman. Read more about her journey to change the wine industry one pour at a time.

Trina Bediako, CEO of New Horizons Baking Company, served in the family-owned business for more than a decade before she was chosen to lead the company. Her leadership skills and commitment to value were built as a child watching her parents navigate as they moved from state to state in support of her father's work. Not only did she learn about the business, but the importance of presenting the best version of yourself in everything you do

For women to continue to thrive as leaders of companies, families and on the job a strong foundation is a major asset, and if you didn't come from one build your own. We cannot build success in a vacuum, so cherish what you have or create and nurture your own.

Let's all go out and build the world we want! Until next time!

WOMEN ARE CHANGING THE FACE OF BUSINESS

THE QUIET POWER OF REINVENTION WHEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP BECOMES A SECOND BEGINNING

Marsha Walker Eastwood

DOLLAR BANK - HOME BUYING WORKSHOP

NORTH SHORE HIGH SCHOOL

CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Trina Bediako

Zahra Finley

While women make up approximately 57% of US wine consumers, only 38% of wineries are owned or co-owned by women. Black women represent a very small fraction of the total, with overall black ownership of wineries estimated at less than 1%.

By refusing to accept these disproportionate levels, one woman proves that meaningful change is possible through sheer conviction. Meet Zahra Finley, a phenomenal woman who continues to impact the wine industry while championing diversity every step of the way. More on page 10

... Bediako is a second-generation CEO of NHBCO, which her family has owned for more than three decades, yet her story begins long before ownership. It begins in Buffalo, New York, when her young parents met, married, and began building a family.

At the time, a young Tilmon “Tim” Brown was a student planning for a career as a pharmacist when he met the love of his life and paused those plans to become a family man. A member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., he confided in a fraternity brother that he needed to find gainful employment to support his family. Brown's friend worked in route sales for Wonder Bread and helped him get a job delivering to mom–and–pop stores in Buffalo

THE QUIET POWER OF REINVENTION WHEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP BECOMES A SECOND BEGINNING

“Reinvention is not impulsive. It is intentional.”

Reinvention has a quiet pull. For many women, it begins as a whisper rather than a declaration. A career that once felt meaningful starts to feel tight. A schedule that looks successful on paper feels misaligned in practice. A role that once defined you begins to feel too small for who you are becoming. Entrepreneurship often enters at this crossroads — not as rebellion, but as possibility.

We romanticize reinvention. We picture bold pivots and dramatic leaps. But in reality, reinvention is rarely impulsive. It is built over time — through accumulated skill, quiet reflection, and growing self-awareness. In my own journey, reinvention did not arrive as a single decision. It unfolded in layers. Education. Law enforcement administration. Financial planning. Human services practitioner. Anger management specialist.

Each chapter built skills that seemed unrelated at the time. Only later did I recognize that none of it was wasted. Each experience sharpened judgment, resilience, and perspective — the very qualities entrepreneurship demands. Reinvention, I learned, is less about starting over and more about integrating what you've already built. Entrepreneurship becomes not an escape, but authorship.

Why Women Reach for Reinvention

Reinvention often surfaces during transitions. Children grow. Careers plateau. Life shifts. or perhaps nothing dramatic happens — just a steady awareness that something inside you is ready for expansion. The first half of adulthood is often defined by responsibility. We build credentials. We build families. We build stability We meet expectations. And then the question shifts. Not Can I do this? But is this still aligned with who I am now?

Entrepreneurship offers a different kind of control — not necessarily fewer hours, but greater alignment. It allows ambition and autonomy to coexist. It offers the possibility of shaping contribution rather than simply fulfilling it. But reinvention works best when it is intentional.

The Weight of Experience

One of the quiet advantages women carry into entrepreneurship is accumulated experience. Not just

technical skill—but judgment. By the time many women consider reinvention, they have navigated offices, organizations, budgets, conflict, caregiving, disappointment, and recovery. They have managed personalities. They have adapted to change. They have handled responsibility without applause.

These experiences rarely feel glamorous. But they build discernment. Discernment is what prevents reckless decisions. It allows a woman to see opportunity without illusion. It enables her to assess risk realistically. It gives her the steadiness to move deliberately instead of reactively. Reinvention in early adulthood may be driven by ambition. Reinvention later in life is often driven by clarity. That clarity is powerful. It replaces urgency with intention. It replaces comparison with conviction.

Entrepreneurship built on discernment feels different. It is less about proving something and more about building something that fits.

Reaction vs. Intention

There is a difference between wanting out and wanting alignment.

Reactive reinvention is fueled by frustration. It sounds like: I can't do this anymore. Or there must be something better.

Those feelings are real. But they are not strategy.

Intentional reinvention asks harder questions:

● What skills have I actually developed?

● What problems am I uniquely equipped to solve?

● What financial runway do I need?

● What kind of life am I designing?

When I transitioned from structured corporate environments into building my own ventures, the greatest temptation was speed. But I learned that clarity outperforms urgency. Structure sustains what impulse cannot. Reinvention built on emotion burns fast. Reinvention built on preparation lasts.

The Identity Shift

The most demanding part of entrepreneurship is not forming the business. It is expanding your identity. You are no longer operating inside someone else's structure. You are the structure.

You decide pricing. You define value. You establish boundaries. You determine what is acceptable and what is not. That shift is subtle but profound. There is a moment when you realize no one is coming to validate your decisions. And that realization can be unsettling — and empowering.

Entrepreneurship reveals your relationship with risk, confidence, and resilience. It requires steady emotional regulation. It asks you to move forward even when results are not immediate. For many women, this internal shift is the true reinvention. Not dramatic. Not loud. But steady and transformative.

The Courage to Be Seen Differently Reinvention also requires social courage. When you step into entrepreneurship, you inevitably step outside familiar expectations. Colleagues may question your decision. Friends may not understand your shift. Some may quietly wonder whether you are being unrealistic.

Even supportive communities can struggle to recalibrate their perception of you. There is vulnerability in that transition. A recognizable title or institutional affiliation no longer defines you. You are defined by what you create. That visibility can feel exposing at first.

But over time, something steadier emergesownership.

Ownership of voice.

Ownership of direction. Ownership of pace.

The courage to be seen differently often precedes the confidence to feel different. And that confidence grows through action, not waiting.

Each small step reinforces identity. Each decision made independently strengthens internal authority. Reinvention, then, is not just a professional matter. It is relational. It shifts how others perceive you — and how you perceive yourself.

The Financial Backbone

We do women a disservice when we glamorize risk and ignore preparation.

Entrepreneurship without financial clarity is stress disguised as freedom. Revenue is not stability Planning is. Savings matter. Cash flow awareness matters. Testing ideas before leaving secure income matters. Prudence does not diminish courage. It strengthens it.

When reinvention is supported by financial structure, it becomes sustainable rather than fragile.

Continued on next page...

The Discipline Beneath the Dream

Freedom is often the headline. Discipline is the subtext.

Behind flexible schedules are systems. Behind thriving ventures are boundaries. Behind sustainable reinvention is repetition.

Entrepreneurship demands consistency without applause. It requires refinement, adjustment, and ongoing work — especially when early outcomes are modest. There is nothing glamorous about that work. But there is something deeply satisfying about building something aligned with your values rather than inherited expectations.

Freedom, it turns out, follows structure.

Reinvention Is Built in Ordinary Days

We often associate reinvention with dramatic turning points. But in reality, it is constructed on ordinary days.

It is built in early mornings spent refining ideas. In spreadsheets reviewed quietly at the kitchen table. In emails sent despite uncertainty. In small launches. In conversations that lead to unexpected opportunities. There is rarely a singular moment when reinvention feels complete. Instead, there is accumulation.

Momentum grows from consistency

Confidence grows from competence. Direction sharpens through repetition. This is why patience becomes one of the most underestimated entrepreneurial virtues.

When reinvention is treated as a long-term project rather than an overnight transformation, pressure decreases. Progress becomes measurable in months and years rather than days. That steadiness allows entrepreneurship to mature — not merely survive.

Reinvention as Authorship

At its best, entrepreneurship is not about abandoning who you were. It is about integrating who you have become. The woman who has navigated multiple careers, responsibilities, and life stages carries depth that cannot be taught in a startup workshop. She carries perspective. She carries steadiness. She carries earned confidence. Entrepreneurship offers her a canvas. Not to erase the past—but to build from it. Reinvention is not impulsive. It is intentional.

It is the quiet decision to take ownership of direction, income, time, and impact. It is the

recognition that growth does not expire and ambition does not belong to youth alone.

When approached thoughtfully, entrepreneurship becomes more than a business model.

It becomes a second beginning — shaped not by urgency, but by clarity.

And clarity is its own form of freedom.

The Quiet Confidence That Follows

There is a moment — often subtle — when reinvention stops feeling fragile.

In the beginning, everything can feel tentative. Ideas are tested. Systems are adjusted. Confidence fluctuates. Progress is measured in small, private wins. There may be seasons where momentum feels slow, even invisible.

But over time, something shifts. You begin to trust your judgment. You make decisions without polling the room. You recognize patterns more quickly. You recover from setbacks with less drama and more strategy. What once felt uncertain begins to feel earned.

This is the quiet power behind reinvention. It is not loud. It does not announce itself. It is not dependent on external applause. It grows internally — through repetition, responsibility, and resilience.

Entrepreneurship reveals that confidence is rarely something you summon before action. More often, it is something you build because of action.

Each boundary set strengthens identity. Each risk assessed strengthens discernment. Each challenge navigated strengthens steadiness. And in that steadiness, reinvention becomes less about change and more about alignment. You are no longer trying to become someone new. You are simply operating more fully as yourself.

Reinvention also teaches patience with yourself. Not every decision will be perfect. Not every season will feel expansive. There will be recalibration because even the best laid plans often don't produce the desired results. There will be learning curves. But when the foundation is intentional, even adjustments feel purposeful rather than chaotic. g

By M. Abebe PWM Contributing Writer

According to the 2025 WineAmerica Economic Impact Study, the American wine industry generated $323.55 billion in total economic activity, supporting 1.75 million jobs, $102 billion in wages, and over $53 billion in taxes, highlighting the industry's significant role in the U.S. economy

While women make up approximately 57% of US wine consumers, only 38% of wineries are owned or coowned by women. Black women represent a very small fraction of the total, with overall black ownership of wineries estimated at less than 1%.

By refusing to accept these disproportionate levels, one woman proves that meaningful change is possible through sheer conviction. Meet Zahra Finley, a

FOUNDER & CEO, ZESTY COMPASS COLLECTION Zahra Finley

phenomenal woman who continues to impact the wine industry while championing diversity every step of the way.

“Wine is culture. Wine is storytelling. Wine is connection. I was drawn to how wine brings people together around tables, at celebrations, in conversations, and at milestones. But I also noticed something missing: representation,” says Zahra Finley, Founder and CEO, Zesty Compass Collection.

Raised in the city of Alliance, a manufacturing and railroad hub in the 20th century, by parents who instilled in her resilience, responsibility, and selfconfidence, Zahra learned early on that excellence is not accidental; it is intentional.

Thanks to her good grades, she received a scholarship to attend a preparatory school in State College, Pennsylvania. “That experience broadened my perspective and strengthened my independence. I later earned a full scholarship to study biology at Virginia Tech before returning to Ohio to complete my bachelor's degree in business and marketing at Cleveland State University, followed by my MBA.”

Prior to becoming a full-time entrepreneur, Zahra spent more than 20 years in corporate leadership roles focused on compliance, client relations, and operational oversight. Navigating that high-pressure environment equipped her with the invaluable skills needed to build her own venture from the ground up.

“My corporate background in compliance and operations sharpened my strategic thinking, problemsolving ability, and risk management expertise. More importantly, it taught me how to build strong foundations and sustainable systems—skills that now underpin the growth and continued evolution of Zesty Compass Collection.” She said.

Transitioning from a 'following orders' mindset to one defined by risk ownership, decisive action, and financial freedom is a formidable challenge. So, how did Zahra decide to become an entrepreneur and enter the competitive, highly regulated wine industry?

In her own words, she explained, “The spark for Zesty Compass began ten years ago when my husband gifted me a winemaking course for my birthday. Science has always been my first love, and that course reignited my passion for chemistry, experimentation, and creation. Winemaking felt natural — perhaps even in my blood—as I come from a family where brewing and distilling were part of our history”

Zesty Compass initially began as a food and travel blog. Over time, that platform evolved into a boutique wine brand. “Today, we are building a fully integrated wine manufacturing, distribution, and experiential company—designed not just to sell wine, but to create infrastructure, representation, and elevated experiences within the industry”Zahra said.

A strong passion for the wine industry coupled with a lack of women and minority entrepreneurs, fueled her desire to enter the field. She said, “I did not see enough of us in ownership, production, or distribution. I didn't want to simply participate in the industry — I wanted to build infrastructure within it.”

Zesty Compass aims to guide people toward living their “Zest Life” — celebrating intentionally, building community, and elevating everyday moments. The name also reflects its' mission: 'Zesty' embodies the vibrant and spirited moments in life, while 'Compass' symbolizes direction and purpose.

The company serves consumers, event partners, and hospitality clients seeking elevated, memorable moments. Its' flagship wine is 'North Star Sparkling Brut—intentionally named to symbolize guidance, direction, and upward movement.'

Customer favorites include: Raspberry Razzle, which consistently sells out, along with Cabernet Sauvignon,

Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc Reserve. Highly anticipated limited releases include the Sunset Wine Cocktail.

Also set for launch is the premium Meridian Collection. Speaking on the new line, she said, “The Meridian Collection represents precision, balance, and sophistication — crafted through a combination of stainless steel refinement and oak barrel maturation, each technique intentionally selected to preserve purity, enhance structure, and honor the distinct character of every varietal.”

A fascinating thing about entrepreneurship is that no two days are alike; Zahra has to juggle tasks every day to tackle new problems. “The beginning of my week is usually dedicated to strategic meetings, both virtual and in-person,” she explained. “Mondays and Tuesdays focus on administrative oversight, financial projections, partnership conversations, and collaboration development. I am actively involved in networking organizations and business groups, so relationshipbuilding is a consistent part of my schedule.”

Her midweek often shifts to production oversight —managing bottling, inventory, event logistics, and coordination. From there, she transitions into event execution, running Wednesday through Sunday depending on the season.

As a licensed wine manufacturer and distributor, Zahra explained the enormous challenges of operating a winery. She noted infrastructure is expensive, inventory is capital-intensive, compliance is non-negotiable, and growth requires discipline.

Continued on next page...

“One of our biggest challenges —and priorities —is scaling while maintaining brand and company integrity. We refuse to compromise on quality, compliance, or experience. We focus on sustainable expansion. We operate with discipline and integrity — and that is what differentiates us,” she said.

Women-owned businesses generate over $3.3 trillion annually but face a series of obstacles to growth, notably limited access to capital. Recent reports indicate women founders receive less than 3% of venture capital and often rely on personal savings.

“Access to capital must improve — particularly for women of color and minority founders. We are often over-mentored and underfunded. There is no shortage of advice panels or accelerator programs. What is missing is equitable access to funding, procurement opportunities, and scalable contracts. The gap is not talent. The gap is capital,” Zahra explained.

Due to systematic funding gaps, women and minority led businesses continue to rely on high-interest credit cards and loans, leading to mounting debt and financial instability. She underscored the importance of capital to grow operations and drive economic growth.

“We need intentional investment in women-led companies, greater access to growth-stage funding, stronger supplier diversity commitments with accountability, and procurement pathways that allow women-owned businesses to scale into larger contracts. Systemic disparities require structural solutions. Encouragement does not build infrastructure —investment does.”

Cleveland is home to top-tier entrepreneurial support organizations that connect entrepreneurs to the opportunities and resources they need to succeed. Among these is JumpStart Inc., which provides free, specialized programs to help entrepreneurs accelerate business growth.

Since 2010, the startups and small businesses assisted by JumpStart and its partners have generated $15 billion in economic impact, contributing to economic vitality and job growth.

Zahra recently completed a twelve-week Core City Impact Program, organized by JumpStart Inc. The free program, designed to drive economic impact, helps individuals overcome obstacles to entrepreneurship through hands-on advising and industry-specific mentoring.

Of the training, she said, “The JumpStart Impact Program exceeded expectations. We entered seeking to strengthen our foundation—refining our value proposition, strengthening financial projections, and clarifying our long-term vision beyond the bottle. It delivered on all of that.”

Upon successful completion of the program, Zahra secured the first-place prize of $20,000 in the impact program's pitch competition, highlighting the grant as fuel for her business's next chapter.

Delighted by the award, she said, “winning the top prize validated years of intentional building. More importantly,

it positioned Zesty Compass as a scalable enterprise — not just a lifestyle brand. It was affirming. And it raised the standard.”

The importance of mentorship in entrepreneurial success is well documented. Mentors are crucial in fostering professional growth, providing seasoned experience, and building a resilient mindset. While Zahra didn't obtain direct mentorship from the wine industry early on, she has over the last few years built relationships with experienced professionals in the wine industry — particularly women and people of color who have provided guidance and access.

“Attending wine festivals in various cities expanded my exposure and strengthened those relationships. Sometimes you begin building independently. Then you grow by building in community,” she noted.

Despite her busy schedule, Zahra finds time to support her community through nonprofits and other impactful organizations. Her service includes collaborating with groups focused on women in business, scholarship initiatives, economic development, and breast cancer awareness.

She noted, “Community alignment is a core pillar of Zesty Compass Collection. We have supported COMTO Cleveland, BPACF, Alzheimer's research efforts, and the Western Reserve Hospice Society. Philanthropy is embedded in our business model; we believe in pouring with purpose and supporting causes that strengthen the communities we serve.”

Away from work, Zahra prioritizes family, spirituality, and personal growth. “I love travel, culinary experiences, hosting intimate gatherings, meditation, yoga, and reflection. Celebrating milestones —big and small —has become especially important in this chapter of my life,” she said. “Joy, for me, is found in intention. Whether it's preparing Sunday dinner, setting a thoughtfully arranged table, writing a handwritten note, or sharing a glass of wine in quiet reflection—I believe moments become meaningful when we choose to honor them.”

Zahra's Zesty Compass Collection is expanding operations and soon opening its immersive wine experience hub in Wickliffe—a fully operational space that will include manufacturing, bottling, guided blending experiences, curated wine education, and a customer-focused tasting room.

The company is expanding distribution, launching the premium Meridian Collection with four new wines. it is also introducing alcohol-free sparkling wines, ensuring inclusion is foundational to its mission.

When asked about advice she would give to her younger self, Zahra says, “I would say: build sooner. Think bigger. Don't wait. And never shrink your vision to make others comfortable. The compass always knows the direction. Trust it.”

For more information: zestycompass.com g

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Tri-C Recognized by Achieving the Dream as 2026 Leader College of Distinction

National recognition highlights sustained progress in helping students

® Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C ) has been designated a 2026 Leader College of Distinction by Achieving the Dream (ATD), a national organization committed to advancing community colleges as accessible hubs of learning, credentialing and economic mobility

"This recognition affirms the progress our students are making and the work our faculty and staff put in every day to support their success," said Lindsay English, Ph.D , executive vice president of Academic Affairs. "We're proud to see Tri-C's commitment to student success and continuous improvement acknowledged at a national level."

Tri-C is one of 32 higher education institutions to earn the Leader College of Distinction for 2026. The College has been part of the ATD Network since 2005 and has held Leader College status since 2018.

ATD created the designation in 2018 to recognize institutions that have demonstrated sustained excellence in advancing student success outcomes over time.

Leader Colleges of Distinction are recognized for consistently approving early momentum metrics, such as course success rates and student retention, as well as achieving milestone momentum outcomes, such as graduation rates. They also show a strong culture of data-informed continuous improvement and evidence of institutionalizing effective practices. These colleges advance student success strategies that respond to their local context with an emphasis on students who are missing or left behind.

"The 2026 Leader Colleges of Distinction demonstrate sustained commitment and measurable progress in advancing student success," said Karen A. Stout, Ed.D., president and CEO of ATD. "By using data to guide decisions and continuously strengthen their practices, these institutions are producing real gains in student outcomes, strengthening their practices, and deepening their impact in the communities they serve. Their leadership sets a powerful example for colleges across the ATD Network, reflecting the focus, discipline and follow-through required to achieve lasting institutional change."

Teagle Foundation Awards Ursuline College $25,000 Grant to Expand Rust Belt Humanities Work

The Teagle Foundation has awarded Ursuline College a new $25,000 grant, reinforcing its continued commitment to innovative humanities education focused on the Rust Belt and strengthening collaboration with Gannon University as the institutions move toward a planned merger

The award builds on Ursuline's nationally recognized Rust Belt Humanities Lab, an interdisciplinary initiative exploring the cultural, economic, and social dimensions of the region while preparing students to think critically, write clearly, and engage thoughtfully with their communities. Through faculty collaboration, curricular innovation, and immersive programming, the initiative has positioned Ursuline as a national leader in place-based humanities education.

This latest grant will expand Rust Belt–focused programming and extend opportunities to students across both Ursuline and Gannon campuses, including Erie, Pennsylvania. Total Teagle Foundation support now stands at $130,000, including an original $100,000 grant, the new $25,000 award, and a $5,000 travel grant.

“The Teagle Foundation's continued support affirms the academic strength and shared mission that unite Ursuline College and Gannon University,” said David King, Ph.D , President of Ursuline College. “This investment expands high-impact humanities learning that prepares students to think critically about place, identity, and responsibility as we move toward a unified institution.”

Teagle has supported Ursuline's Rust Belt humanities work since 2024, reflecting a sustained commitment to strengthening undergraduate education in regions undergoing economic and social transition.

“The Teagle Foundation's support has had a clear and measurable impact on how our students understand their values and their responsibility to the region,” said Katie Trostel, Ph.D., Associate Professor of English and CoDirector of the Rust Belt Humanities Lab

The expansion of the Teagle Foundation's Cornerstone: Learning for Living initiative will deepen collaboration between Ursuline and Gannon faculty. Ursuline's Department of English and Rust Belt Humanities Lab faculty — Katie Trostel, Hayley Verdi, and Valentino Zullo — are partnering with Gannon colleagues Jeff Bloodworth (history), Ann Bomberger (English), and Robyn Gaier (philosophy) to explore shared stories and regional identity along Lake Erie.

Ursuline's Rust Belt humanities work has gained national attention, including a 2023 National Endowment for the Humanities–sponsored institute, Reading, Writing & Teaching the Rust Belt, which brought scholars from across the country to campus.

As Ursuline and Gannon move toward a unified institution, the initiative demonstrates how the campuses are already working together to enhance academic programming and student opportunity, with a long-term goal of expanding Ursuline's Rust Belt Pathway into an integrated core curriculum spanning both campuses.

Ursuline College also acknowledges Rebecca Asmo, Executive Director of Ohio Humanities, for connecting the institution with the Teagle Foundation, and Annie Bezbatchenko, Senior Program Officer at the Teagle Foundation.

PHOTOS: TIA McKNIGHT THE BLUSH GALLERY

TRINA BEDIAKO

BUILDING ON HER FAMILY'S LEGACY AS CEO OF NEW HORIZONS BAKING COMPANY

Shelley M. Shockley Managing Editor

Think tanks and organizations monitoring women's progress in business are sounding a silent alarm: current underrepresentation may be a sign of things to come. Currently, women make up a mere 9% of CEOs in the U.S a figure that could shrink or stagnate due to a lack of internal talent pools for promotion.

This imbalance reflects more than just a lack of representation at the top; it underscores systemic issues in the development and support of female leaders throughout their careers.

Against this backdrop, women trailblazers are truly excelling, guiding their industries with both resilience and compassion.

Trina Bediako, CEO of New Horizons Baking Company (NHBCO), is one of the approximately 9% of women CEOs in the US. While she rose from within the ranks to the top job, her journey to leadership began long before she chose a business career.

Trina's Journey and Work Ethic

Bediako is a second-generation CEO of NHBCO, which her family has owned for more than three decades, yet her story begins long before ownership. It begins in Buffalo, New York, when her young parents met, married, and began building a family

This was the beginning of the dynasty Tim Brown sought to build for his family. He is a hard-working man with a strong work ethic—something young Trina observed from the front row. As the oldest of three children, Trina recalls being the helper, always eager to assist and please her parents.

A manager at Wonder Bread recognized Brown's commitment to his job and the strengths he brought to it, and became a supporter and mentor in Brown's 30year career at Wonder Bread/Continental Baking Co. Over the years, Tim received multiple promotions, which included relocating his family—opportunities he never denied. Trina said of this, “That was part of my learning base. When opportunities arise, you give them careful consideration and decide whether it's the right thing.”

Life for the Brown children was similar to military children, she said, “I lived in a different state for every major grade because of my father's career promotion and relocations. My dad would call my mom and say, “Jonnie, we've been blessed with another opportunity and have to move again. He then counted on her to put the pieces together on the home front to make it happen. I firmly believe that a key component to my father's success was that he entrusted my mother to take care of our home. As a family we were agile and mobile.”

While moving might hinder some students, Bediako buckled down and led with authenticity. She worked hard and engaged herself in school activities as best she could. Her goal was to “show my best traits,” something teachers liked. Her desire to be the best did not always go over well with her classmates, but she did not let that bother her.

The accolades she sought were not from students; instead, she said, “I always put my best foot forward. I like my parents saying you did a good job.” As the family moved, there were new neighborhoods, schools, friends, and churches; yet of all of these things, the Church was the constant and a source of foundation. She confirmed, “My faith has been, and remains, my foundation today as an adult.”

Through my 16 years of learning — meeting the stakeholders, shadowing my father, sitting in on

the

meetings, and working department by department — I learnedthebusinessandkeypeople. “ ”

That foundation was a pivotal part of her youth, particularly growing up in predominantly white neighborhoods where she was often the only brown face in the classroom. This level of isolation might hamper the growth of many children, but it was a spark for Bediako who had the good fortune of being the president of her class every year with the exception of her junior year

Despite moving so much, Bediako has remained connected to one friend from middle school, high school and college—a testament to her character and her ability to form relationships across the social spectrum.

The development of friendships outside of the home was important, but the most important bonds were formed at home with her brother and sister. Trina recalls moving regularly meant it was often just the three of them and they had a childhood filled with fun. As the helper and unofficial 'second mother,' she was protective of her siblings, yet they were all taught to look out for one another, something they continue to nurture in adulthood.

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The Strength of Family

The Brown family bond has always been strong. Heeding Tim Brown's advice and perspective led to the establishment of a legacy business and afforded his children many advantages in life. As a self-avowed “pleaser,” Trina is grateful for her father's input as she traversed life.

When she reached high school, the family was living in Georgia—a major hub for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). It was no surprise, then, that she applied to and was accepted by Spelman College. For a brief moment, she believed the path to her next journey was complete.

Unbeknownst to Trina, during a conversation with her father about her college plans, he said, “Why don't you apply to the University of Connecticut?” Understanding her father and the dynamics of their relationship, Trina quickly realized he had a new job in Rye, NY and the family would be moving to Connecticut.

Trusting her father's advice, Trina enrolled at the University of Connecticut and majored in business, at his “suggestion.” In high school, Bediako excelled in Spanish and loved the language. She considered a career as a Spanish teacher and a career in education that might lead to the collegiate level.

Long removed from those decisions, she has no regrets. When recalling the choice of her major, her father said to her, “I'm sure you'll be a great teacher, but I think you can be more, so I want you to consider that.” She did, and instead majored in marketing with a degree in business administration.

The decision to attend the University of Connecticut also came with a lifelong decision—she met her husband there and said, “It wasn't a bad thing, but I certainly was directed.” The guidance she received from both of her parents has been invaluable.

She explained, “Something my parents have said to me on occasion, at different times, is, 'Is that going to be enough for you? Are you sure that's what you want?' You know, they've made me pause in the past to just think a bit before I move.” She continued, “I have a lot of energy. I'm on the go. I like change. If you tell me you need a hat, I'm going to go to the store and get it for you. I'm not going to wait. So they directed me, in my younger days, to slow it down and think a little bit about what you want.”

Her parents not only worked to calm her impetuous spirit, but they also instilled confidence in their children. Growing up in majority communities, she learned early on who she was and how to navigate and present her best self.

When discussing the lack of culture in these situations, she explained, the Church and her family were ground zero for knowing who she was. “That's where my exposure came from: The relationships and activities my friends from church participated in that I could join. And at the end of the day, I always knew who I was. You know, I'm a smart, strong Black girl, I have a good family that loves me, and I bring value.”

Journey to CEO

Providing value is integral to Trina. Growing up, her goal was to be valued, so she worked hard to show that she had what it took to excel at everything she did. These are the same goals she has for (NHBCO).

Before reaching the top job, Trina spent a considerable amount of time learning every aspect of the business. She began as a Vice President of Human Resources, moved into Sales, Compliance and Risk Management, and then led brands within the company.

She said of her on-the-job training, “Through my 16 years of learning—meeting the stakeholders, shadowing my father, sitting in on the meetings, and working department by department I learned the business and key people.”

The work she put in to learn the business initially was a bit of a double-edged sword. When you're the daughter of the boss, you receive one level of respect, and when you become the boss there is a new level expected Understanding her new role and how it would impact everyone started at the top. She recalled the conversation when her father asked her to lead, noting she had to be certain he was ready to release the reins.

She said, “When my dad asked me if I would take on the president's role at the end of 2017, I said, 'Well, yeah but you have to let me lead.” With his commitment to allow her to lead, she then had to convince the employees that she was no longer just, “Tim's daughter,” she was now in charge.

One of her keys to successfully overseeing the company is communication, listening and developing relationships She explained, “We have to have respect and a degree of trust. So I worked on building that, not only with the team but also with my dad. He had to see me in a different mirror, if you will. I think that took some time. I'm proud of the relationship we have today”

As a family business, relationships can be strained without employing that same level of communication and relationship building she has worked on with nonfamily members. Of the total employees, six family members work for the company. These include her father, who is the chairman; her husband; two of her adult children; her sister-in-law; and her brother. These positions are not just figurehead jobs, either; as she puts it, “We work.”

The same value she brings to the job is expected of everyone in the family. She said, “I tell the family members: You don't have to be in the family business to benefit from it one day. But if you do, you are going to have to bring it. You have to bring one hundred-plus. You can't be sloppy, and you can't embarrass me. Do your best, and it's hard sometimes.”

Outside forces can add to the challenges of business as Bediako and the world learned in 2019 with the COVID19 pandemic.

Her brother, Aaron Brown, has been with the company for 25 years and holds a field service position where he works directly with customers. Her sister, Melissa Brown, is no longer with the business but previously worked in HR and sales.

Bediako's role as a Black woman running a manufacturing business also invites external resistance. The company is classified as a food manufacturer, with the bakery serving as its primary operation.

Among approximately 11,000 similar businesses, she believes fewer than 10% are minority-owned. The advantage she has is the foundation she is building on. She said, “My dad and his team built a very solid foundation, so when I came on board and through my 16 years of learning, I built relationships with key stakeholders and have been fully engaged in different industry organizations.”

Her level of experience and expertise does not limit the biases she encounters. As an example, she said, “I've been in meetings where colleagues have ignored me or have not responded to questions I've asked, but I maintained my commitment and carried myself professionally. These events were uncomfortable and sometimes hurtful, but they never redirected me or deterred me from my goal: to lead the legacy my parents entrusted to me.”

Under her stewardship, the company continues to grow and thrive. A testament to the growth can be found in the numbers. When she joined the company, they had two facilities, three production lines, and 185 employees. Today, they have four facilities, over 650 employees, and 13 production lines.

Strategic diversification has been key to the company's continual growth. The most recent acquisitions were completed over a two- to three-year period. Trina said, “In 2001 we acquired a minority owned dry ingredient custom blending company. The newly branded New Horizons Food Solutions (NHFS) produces various spices and seasonings, from Crystal Light sized stick packs to2000 lb. super sacks. In 2023, we purchased a liquid ingredient company specializing in soups, sauces, and dry rubs.”

The acquisitions expanded the company's reach and offered a new revenue stream. Proud of the work she has done, Trina said, “When I started, we produced product for one particular quick-service hamburger restaurant that was 90% of our business. Today, that company represents 40%. We've diversified; and we have a company that produces exclusively for them, and another that produces various baked goods for some of the most iconic brand customers in the food industry.”

While growth is good and something they seek to continue, Bediako said, “that cannot happen in a vacuum. It must be controlled growth. We need to do the things that we do well or things that we have some skill in and can learn to do, and we must have the right people. None of this happens without the right team. I can have as much blue sky thinking about what I want to do next, but if the team members don't have the right resources—or if we haven't communicated it in a way that makes sense—they won't do the work.”

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PHENOMENAL FACTS:

BS in Marketing with a Spanish minor University of Connecticut

Completed Manufacturing and Business Training at:

– The American Institute of Baking (AIB)

– Kellogg School of Management

– The Wharton Business School

Awards & Recognitions

¡ 2021 EY Regional and National Entrepreneur of the Year Award

¡ 2025 Smart Women Award

¡ 2025 YWCA Women of Achievement Award

¡ 2025 JPMC 50 Fastest Women Led Businesses Award

– Member

New Horizons Baking Co Board

– Member

Anderson-DuBose Company Board of Advisors

– Member, Board of Directors

YWCA of Greater Cleveland

– Member, Board of Directors

Greater Cleveland Partnership

– Executive Committee Member

Greater Cleveland Partnership

– Member, Board of Directors

American Bakers Association

– Audit Committee Member

American Bakers Association

– Served as Board Member

McDonald's Bakery Council Senior Leadership Team

– Served as Member, Board of Directors

Ronald McDonald House Charities Northeast Ohio

– Served as Board member

Huntington Bank Cleveland Advisory Board

– Served as Member

McDonald's Supplier Advisory Council

– Served as Board member

Urban League of Greater Cleveland

While Trina always sought to keep the lines of communication open and listen, the COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to changes in the way they do business. She said, “COVID was really enlightening for us all because the business world experienced a degree of change that we had to acknowledge if we wanted to continue to grow and be successful. The workforce that came back was different younger, not less committed. Different things were important. To stay staffed, we had to hire differently and onboard differently. I joke, but it's no longer your father's bakery. It's not the generation that supported my dad through the years, worked six, seven days a week, had all sorts of overtime, didn't complain about it, and just kept coming back.”

To further explain, she noted that today's workforce will simply leave if they don't like or agree with their terms. To improve retention and increase company value, they offered alternative work schedules. They changed their eight-hour schedules to twelve-hour schedules three days a week. She said, “If you're scheduled for 36 hours, we will pay you for 40, and then you are off for four days and work for three. The program has been very successful. We have even added a People Engagement Team to our business to assess and lead the culture development. We are doing all we can to provide a work environment that fosters a positive quality of life for our team members.”

Trina was raised to understand that to whom much is given, much is required, and her family is active in the spirit of giving. Explaining how their philanthropy works, Bediako said the family holds meetings to discuss any new initiatives they would like to support. She explained, “We have worked with the Cleveland Clinic and the Cleveland Foundation, supporting cardiovascular research, and various initiatives regarding women's health, high blood pressure, diabetes, and vision wellness —all areas that have impacted the family. We have made charitable donations to the University of Buffalo, my father's alma mater, and to the Cleveland Clinic Langston Hughes facility. We are also interested in learning more about how we can contribute to areas focusing on mental health issues. The oldest grandchild is 35 and the youngest is 21, and we are now having conversations about how they can be engaged in philanthropic activities as well.”

When Trina is not working, she loves to garden, noting, “I already have a beautiful vision of what my retirement home garden is going to look like. I've got it all planned out.” She also enjoys plants in her home, taking walks, shopping, and she loves listening to audiobooks particularly mysteries and true crime.

She also shared, “I'm learning to appreciate quiet time. I have a lovely home and husband who loves me, and kids who are supportive. I don't always have to be on the go. I travel about 40% of the year for businessrelated reasons. I like to cruise not for the destination as much after all these years, but just for the slow ride and beautiful scenery”

In recognition of her exemplary work, Trina Bediako has received numerous awards and accolades. Her determination and hard work have set the bar for what it means to be an impactful leader. This Phenomenal Woman's commitment to excellence has created a positive impact on the industry, serving as a reminder to everyone that there are no limits to what a woman can achieve.

To learn more, visit newhorizonsbaking.com

WALK MORE TO STRESS LESS: GET MOVING TO IMPROVE WELL-BEING

(Feature Impact) More than 10 years ago, a mere five words frightened desk jockeys everywhere: “sitting is the new smoking.” Still, many people across the U.S are walking less than they used to. Long days spent sitting can take a toll over time, negatively impacting bodies and minds.

Research from the American Heart Association shows 1 in 4 adults in the United States sits for longer than 8 hours each day,leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity,Type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and premature death.

Feeling stretched by the demands of everyday life is common. However, simply adding just 20 minutes of daily physical activity may reduce the risk of disease and improve mental health, according to research published in “JAMA Internal Medicine.”Additionally, being physically active reaps many benefits down the road. It

keeps your mind sharp as you age; studies show higher levels of fitness are linked to better attention, learning, working memory and problem solving. It also slashes risk of depression and boosts an all-around sense of joy.

Research continues to show physical activity, like walking, reduces stress, boosts mood and promotes overall well-being. This year, in honor of National Walking Day – created by the American Heart Association more than 10 years ago to encourage more movement throughout the day and help people live longer, healthier lives, one step at a time – consider these ideas to get your body moving to help lower stress, improve sleep, lift your moodand support both mental and physical health.

Step into the Great Outdoors

Slipping on a pair of comfortable walking shoes and heading outside is a simple way to get more movement

in your life. Walking outside has the added benefits of helping reduce stress, improving mood andboostingcardiovascular health. Sunshine also provides a boost of vitamin D and immune support.

Make It Fun

Think of movement as something you give yourself, by moving more your way. When you choose activities you enjoy, it becomes easier to make them part of your day. If you can't find 20 minutes for a walk outside, even short bursts of movement can help. Walking in place at a brisk pace, walking up and down the stairs in your home, finding a quick dance workout online or even seated exercises and stretch breaks throughout the day can help you feel more refreshed and ready to take on everyday tasks, like cooking and running errands.

Walk with a Furry Friend

Pets can be a great motivator to get moving. Plus, taking your furry friend for a stroll can support heart health, lower stress and boost overall happiness. In fact. a study published in the “Journal of Physical Activity and Health” shows dog owners are 34% more likely to reach their fitness goals and get the recommended amount of physical activity than those who don't have a dog.Walking with your pet can also lead to more social connection, such as meeting neighbors or other pet owners.

Pound the Pavement with a Pal

Walking solo can be good for introspection, but bringing a friend, family member or coworker can make the time pass more quickly and add connection to your routine. Explore a greenway, waterfrontor indoor mall for a fresh way to get some steps. If a loved one isn't available to join you, make a phone call while you walk or take a meeting or conference call outdoors if your work allows it.

Every step counts. Visit Heart.org/movemore for more tips to get moving.

CONNECTING CULTURE AND NUTRITION TO FIGHT DIABETES

(Feature Impact) Meals served at home can carry significant meaning, including community and connection centered around flavorful dishes. They can also represent an opportunity to encourage good nutrition, particularly for those at heightened risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes.

With Hispanic adults 66% more likely to have diagnosed diabetes than non-Hispanic white adults, according to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Avocados From Mexico is committed to providing culturally relevant, empowering resources. In collaboration with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and chef Pati Jinich, the No. 1-selling avocado brand in the U.S. is showcasing the vibrant intersection of nutritious food and rich family traditions with a special collection of recipes.

“I grew up in a Mexican household where food was our love language – but there was also stigma and very little guidance around diabetes,” Jinich said. “When my aunt, and later my mom, were diagnosed, it took time to understand what healthy eating could look like for them. That's why this partnership means so much to me. Our culture and our food are not the problem – they're part of the solution. Traditional ingredients like avocados can deliver both flavor and wellness, while giving families the resources mine didn't have. That's incredibly meaningful.

Classic avocado flavor can enhance some of the most delicious, diabetes-friendly dishes on your menu, such as Jinich's Lime-Rubbed Chicken Avocado Tacos with Corn Guacamole. Created to help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in the Hispanic community, this recipe is powered by the good fats and zero-sugar goodness of Avocados From Mexico.

While honoring heritage and health, you don't have to sacrifice the flavors your family loves. The heart of Hispanic culture – its food – can also be the key to a healthier future.

To take the 60-second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test and find more diabetes-friendly recipes, which eachmeet the nutritional guidelines of the ADA, visit avocadosfrommexico.com/health.

Lime-Rubbed Chicken Avocado Tacos with Corn Guacamole

Recipe courtesy of Pati Jinichon behalf of Avocados From Mexico

Servings: 8

Chicken:

1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lime juice

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2

1/4

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts corn or safflower oil

Corn Guacamole:

1 jalapeno chile, roasted and chopped, or to taste

2 garlic cloves, skin on

2 large ripe Avocados FromMexico, halved, pitted and diced

3/4 cup corn kernels shaved from corn, or cooked from thawed

3/4 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or chopped

1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lime juice

3/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt, or to taste

Tacos:

16 corn tortillas

To make chicken: In bowl, mix lime juice with olive oil, salt, ground pepper and rosemary. Pour on top of chicken in container. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes or up to 12 hours.

Heat medium-sized saute or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add corn or safflower oil; once hot but not smoking, add chicken. Saute until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan; place on chopping board to cool. When cool enough to handle, slice into diagonal strips about 1/2-inch wide.

To make corn guacamole: Place jalapeno and garlic cloves in small baking dish under broiler 6-9 minutes, or until completely cooked through, soft and skin is charred. Once cool enough to handle, peel garlic and mince along with chiles.

Place diced avocado in mixing bowl. Add charred and minced garlic and jalapenos, gently tossing together. Incorporate corn and tomatoes. Squeeze lime juice on top and sprinkle with salt. Mix together

To assemble tacos: In hot skillet or comal set over medium-low heat, heat tortillasabout 1 minute per side.

Place tortillas in tortilla warmer or wrap in clean kitchen towel or cloth napkin. Serve with guacamole and chicken.

BOLD BEVERAGES TO ELEVATE CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATIONS

Few things say Cinco de Mayo like festive drinks and a lively atmosphere. This year, give your glass a signature chile-lime kick and turn every sip into a celebration.

Elevating classic beverages is effortless with the bold trifecta of chile peppers, lime and sea salt – the perfectly balanced blend that delivers tangy, zesty and mildly spicy notes to take drinks from ordinary to unforgettable.

Raise a glass with these easy, at-home recipes designed to make even novice mixologists feel like pros. For a refreshing option, try a vibrant Watermelon Agua Fresca that combines the natural sweetness of fresh watermelon with the irresistible kick of Tajín's Chamoy Sauce and a rim of its Clásico Seasoning for a craveable finish.

If you love the timeless taste of a margarita, the Spicy Jalapeno Margarita is a perfect choice, bringing bar-quality flavor to your celebration in just a few simple steps.

Both beverages feature a Tajín Clásico Seasoning rimmer that adds eye-catching color and a burst of flavor, complementing the sweetness of fresh fruit. Citrus like orange and lime, tropical options such as pineapple and mango, and melons including cantaloupe, watermelon and honeydew all pair beautifully. It's an easy, fun way to add a popof color and make everythingfrom orange juice to fruity mocktailsfeel festive and special.

With a little prep, you can turn Cinco de Mayo into a truly unforgettable fiesta. For more swoon-worthy recipes ideas, visit Tajin.com.

Spicy Jalapeno Margarita

Watermelon Agua Fresca

2 cups fresh watermelon, cubed

1 ouncefresh lime juice 1/2 ounceagave syrup (optional) 1/2 cup cold water, ice

Rim: Tajín Chamoy Sauce, Tajín Clásico Seasoning

Garnish: lime slice, watermelon slice

Dip glass intoTajín Chamoy Sauce then into Tajín Clásico Seasoning.

In blender, blend fresh watermelon cubes; lime juice; agave syrup, if using; and cold water until smooth and well combined.

Fill prepared glass with ice and pour watermelon mixture into glass.

Sprinkle with pinch of classic seasoning on top

Garnish with lime slice and watermelon slice.

To rim glass, brush Tajín Chile Lime Sauce on side of glass then dip into Tajín Clásico Seasoning to coat. Set aside.

In shaker, muddle jalapeno slices with lime juice to release heat and flavor

Add tequila, orange liqueur and agave syrup. Fill with ice and shake vigorously 10-15 seconds.

Rim:

Tajín Chile Lime Sauce

Tajín Clásico Seasoning lime wedge

Garnish: jalapeno slice or lime wheel

Fill prepared glass with ice and strain margarita into glass.

Garnish with lime wedge and jalapeno slice.

Mix Up The Everyday

Most families know and love their tried-and-true

family traditions, especially when it comes to the secret sauces, time-tested techniques and recipes that deserve to be passed down from generation to generation. No matter how legendary the home cooks, though, there's always room for new tricks, whether it's a fresh spin on a classic dish or a smarter tool that makes the after-dinner cleanup effortless.

Incorporating new techniques and fresh ideas can invigorate your everyday cooking in unexpected ways. Consider these grandma-approved twists on tradition from the experts at Finish, who offer winning ways to enhance cleanup no matter what techniques you turn to in the kitchen.

Plan Ahead

If you're used to throwing together dinner at the last minute, learning to meal prep can help with trying new recipes. Take a look at what you have on hand before scouring a few cookbooks (or cooking websites) for appetizing dishes to try then head to the store to fill in the missing ingredients. Meal planning may save you time, money and, perhaps, a little sanity – and potentially help you branch out your menu, too.

Club It Up

Joining a cookbook club allows you to flex your social muscles and sample new recipes and techniques from different cultures with fellow foodies. For example, this savory, meat-free Lubiyeh recipe just may become a new household favorite. Featuring stewed green beans simmered in a vegan broth with the added kick of Aleppo pepper and sweet red pepper paste, it's both bright and

rich, and pairs well with rice, lavash or thin pita with a smattering of raw onions for a little extra punch.

Simplify Cleanup

Once the cookbooks have been shelved and the plates have been cleared, tackle the cleaning jobs with an option like the new Finish Ultimate Quantum – their breakthrough dishwashing detergent with Finish's most advanced formula yet – offering an unbeatable clean even on tough stains in hard water (220 PPM). This grandma-approved technique can help you conquer clean dishes, so it makes sense to switch.

Veg Out

If meat is in constant rotation at your house, consider rotating in a Meatless Monday meal like pasta primavera, or celebrate your own version of Taco Tuesday with bean- or lentil-based tacos instead of chicken, pork or beef. Opting for vegetarian or vegan meals utilizing hearty veggies like squash, eggplant and potatoes can help you save money at the grocery store and nourish your body with heart-healthy nutrients.

Grow a Garden

Starting a garden may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. You can begin with afew herbs growing on a windowsill before embarking on a bigger outdoor gardening project, where transforming a small patch of earth for growing vegetables, herbsor berry bushes can be just the thing to elevate eating at home.

To learn more, visit finishdishwashing.com.

Lubiyeh

(Lebanese Green Beans Stewed with Tomatoes and Garlic)

Recipe courtesy of Jeanette Chawki and the League of Kitchens on behalf of Finish

Servings: 4-6

2 pounds string beans or flat green beans

1/8 pound garlic (about 18 medium cloves)

7 1/2 cups water, divided

1 1/4 pounds plum tomatoes (about 5)

1 tablespoon sweet red pepper paste

1 1/2 teaspoons tomato paste

1/2 teaspoon white sugar

1/2-1 teaspoon crushed Aleppo pepper flakes

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon kosher salt, or to taste

1 large white or yellow onion, for serving thin pita, lavash or another flatbread, for serving (optional)

Trim ends of string beans or flat green beans. Put beans in bowl. Use hands to break beans into 2-3 pieces about 1 1/2 inches long.

Peel garlic. Trim rough or damaged root ends and cut large cloves in half lengthwise.

In medium saucepan, bring 6 cups water to boil. Once boiling, carefully add plum tomatoes and cook just until skins begin to break, 4-5 minutes. Turn off heat and drain. When tomatoes are cool enough to handle, remove and discard skin.

Cut tomatoes into rough 1/2-inch chunks, removing any white or green parts near stem. Put tomato chunks in bowl. In separate small bowl, stir sweet red pepper paste, tomato paste, white sugar, crushed Aleppo pepper flakes and 1/2 cup water until paste is dissolved into liquid; set aside.

In large wok or skillet with deep sides over high heat, heat extra-virgin olive oil.

Add garlic and fry, shaking pot occasionally, until cloves lightly brown, about 90 seconds. Add green beans and stir with wooden spoon. Turn heat to medium-low and stir in kosher salt. Add 1 cup water and stir. Raise heat to high to bring water back to simmer then lower to medium-low. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, just until beans are cooked through, about 20 minutes.

Stir in tomatoes and pepper paste mixture, increase heat to high and cook until liquid boils. Cover pot, keeping lid slightly ajar, reduce heat to medium-low and cook until tomatoes are soft, sauce has thickened slightly and garlic is tender, about 20 minutes. Taste for salt and add if needed. Keep warm until ready to serve.

Put down clean dish towel and place onion on top Smash onion with heavy cutting board 2-5 times then peel it.

Squeeze whole onion over sink between hands to remove some juices. Wash onion under cold running water, squeeze it between hands again then pull it apart into pieces, removing roots and any stem, and put it on small serving plate.

If using pita, separate circles into two thin pieces. Bake or toast thin pita, lavash or other flatbread until crispy or blackened in spots. For sandwiches, warm bread.

Serve stewed green beans and raw onion with pita, lavash or other flatbread, either open-faced or rolled into sandwich.

5 BUDGET-FRIENDLY BEDROOM UPGRADES

Making changes to a bedroom doesn't have to

break the bank. Simple swaps, a little DIY and some inexpensive purchases can go a long way toward freshening up the place you lay your head.

Better Bedding

If you can't remember the last time you bought a new comforter, it may be time to snag one. Think beyond the luxury home stores and check out discount home decor retailers and even thrift stores, where you can often find new, unopened bedding at a fraction of the cost. A fluffy throw blanket in a dynamic new color might be the perfect way to rejuvenate your bed.

Playful Pillows

Few things spruce up a bedroom more than new throw pillows. Available in a myriad of sizes and shapes – from squares to rectangles to asymmetrical – there is no shortage of ways to use these functional pieces to brighten up a space.

Uplifting Light

Old-fashioned lamps, ancient wall sconces and dusty chandeliers can make a room feel stale. Scouring consignment stores and estate sales for new lighting can take a bedroom from dated to delightful without spending a ton of cash. If big box stores are more your thing, you can find budget lamps in unexpected

departments; for example, try the back-to-school sections for dorm-friendly finds like twinkle lights and small bedside lamps. These little pops of light can both brighten and cozy up a room with minimal effort.

Punchy Paint

Repainting a room is a doable DIY project, and it can make a huge difference in how a room looks and feels. Give yourself time to peruse the countless paint swatches at specialty paint stores or home improvement stores. If you've always gravitated toward earthy tones, maybe opt for a color with a little more depth or saturation. If brighter hues are your thing, go a little darker. If you love the idea of painting but worry about buyer's remorse, start with an accent wall.

Heavenly Hardware

Functional hardware like drawer pulls and doorknobs can be replaced without much effort or money. Secondhand stores, online marketplaces and even furniture boutiques can be a goldmine for offbeat and unique hardware. Be sure to think beyond your bedside, too. Wardrobe handles, closet rods, sconces, wall hooks and hinges can be swapped out easily and inexpensively.

Find more tips and guidance to give your bedroom a budget-friendly upgrade at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo: Shutterstock

REFRESH YOUR HOME: A ROOMBY-ROOM SPRING CLEANING CHECKLIST

After months of winter, spring cleaning isn't just about dusting and vacuuming – it's about inviting sunlight and fresh air into your space through the open windows and giving yourself a fresh start for the longer days ahead.

It's also a perfect opportunity to clear out the old and make room for new experiences, memories and energy. Whether you're tackling deep cleaning for the first time or you have seasonal rituals for tidying up your home, this room-by-room guide can help you plan and conquer seasonal chores.