A Distinctive Style Issue 4

Mosaic
Aromatherapy
is committed to
providing knowledge,
growth and healing
to a society that is
riding a constant
wave of high stress
and anxiety.
~ Dinah Daniel
Photo by Zara Tareen | H&Z Productions

2 A DISTINCTIVE STYLE ~ Jan/Feb 2009
Mosaic AROMATHERAPY
AN EXOTIC BLEND OF CULTURE, EXPERIENCE, HERBS AND AROMA’S
By Surinder Moore
Born to a Palestinian mother and Greek father, Dinah Customers can allow their senses to take a trip around the
Daniel brings an extraordinary blend of cultural and world by experiencing of multi cultural array of remedies and
generational experiences to her company, Mosaic herbal delights. Mosaic also offers a variety of exotic and
Aromatherapy. aromatic herbal tea blends made from the highest quality
Dinah’s education in the art and science of herbs and organic materials, giving patrons a superior end product, and
aromatherapy actually began long before she ever stepped unique insight into the study of ancient healing cultures from
into a college classroom. Her relationship with various across the globe.
aroma’s and herbs began at home, with her mother who Everything from the packaging, to the contents, is given the
used tried and tested home-remedies whenever the children utmost attention to detail. Mosaic has no shortage of luxury
were sick with a tummy ache or a stuffy nose. offering exotic teas to calm your spirit, essential oils to heal
Dinah’s early years were spent mostly soaking in every and sooth almost every ailment, and even a custom line of
ounce of information about homemade herbal therapies, and perfumes called “Riha” which means Perfume in Arabic.
years later she formalized her education in Aromatherapy at Another item Mosaic Aromatherapy will soon pamper us
NW College for Herbal and Aromatic Studies. Having her with is a collection of custom wellness and gift packages,
mother as a personal tutor, combined with a certification in which include lavish Massage Oils, Body Mists and enriching
Aromatherapy allowed Dinah to start her own company, Hair Oils.
Mosaic Aromatherapy. So if you’ve searched long and hard to find the perfectly
Mosaic Aromatherapy is committed to providing distinctive gift for that special someone in your life, you will
knowledge, growth and healing to a society that is riding a definitely want to explore your gift options with Mosaic
constant wave of high stress and anxiety. Aromatherapy at www.mosaicaromatherapy.com.
Jan/Feb 2009 ~ ADISTINCTIVESTYLE 3
olsenHaus PURE VEGAN
“Non-violence leads to the highest ethics, which

is the goal of all evolutiion. Until we stop harming
all other living beings, we are still savages.”
~Thomas Edison
By Haley Hagen
Three years ago, Elizabeth Olsenhaus created a fashion of Since her transformation into the vegan lifestyle, Elizabeth
which many were not aware. After some time and energy, has been an advocate in preventing animal cruelty. She
she has relaunched her vegan shoe line, olsen Haus, and has transferred this energy into OlsenHaus by producing
has made her mark on the fashion industry. functional goods, products that are made of non-animal
materials and by creating a work environment that
Elizabeth attended art school in the South and later design upholds ethical practices. OlsenHaus also works with
school in New York City. She has experienced life on both many organizations such as Greenpeace, PETA and
coasts of the States and has traveled the world for work Farm Sanctuary; all while creating beautiful, fashionable,
and pleasure alike. Elizabeth has been in the style world eco-friendly shoes.
for 15 years, working with large designers such as Calvin
Klein, Nine West,Tommy Hilfiger and on print ad OlsenHaus shoe line is one of many vegan fashions, and
campaigns, commercials and films with Nike, Nissan, Elizabeth believes the vegan style will only strengthen
IBM and others. within the fashion industry.
As a child, she questioned every little detail about meat. “It already is a world wide phenomenon and growing
After much research as a teenager, Elizabeth became a stronger person by person every day.There are so many
vegetarian and later a vegan. She has been living this material options and ways to combine them creatively.
lifestyle, which has inspired her designs in the long run, You cannot hide the truth forever. Intelligent people today
for 20 years. want to know what is going on. It is the natural evolution
of mankind to not be dependent on animals, and to
“Being vegan has meant everything to the rapid success of coexist in harmony with them.True style is being aware,
OlsenHaus. My body, health and mind are clear. I come thoughtful and compassionate, which has nothing to do
from a place of truth and heart, making the work I put with cruelty.Vegan and eco-friendly everything is the
into the world good for everyone and everything.” way of the future.”
CHLOE JO
B
PHOTO: JE ERMAN: WWW.G
REMY DA IRL
VIS: WWW IEGIRLARMY.COM
.LORDJDA
VIS.COM
olsenHaus
PURE VEGAN
Happy New Year
THE END IS NEAR. Or at least that’s what sidewalk prophets have been saying for decades. It’s
kind of a drawn-out downer, huh? In the event that, eventually they’re right, the time to change
is now. Tomorrow may be too late to improve your diet, stop smoking or start recycling.
And even if the end is, well, far, today is still the best time to think about the legacy you’ll
leave behind. As for me, I enjoy New Year’s resolutions. I make them, break them and generally
savor the idea of the chance to try again every year. Or every day if need be.
It wasn’t until I had a child that I gave much thought to making environmentally friendly
resolutions. The decision to begin recycling was more about avoiding a lecture from my son –
once he was old enough to talk, that is – than it was to help the environment. (Hey, I’m nothing,
if not honest.) But now I’m committed. I diligently compress, sort and pack my recyclables in
our appropriately colored green bin and tote it to the curb once a week.
Apparently, I’m not alone in this baby-step’s worth of effort toward joining the eco-conscious.
But, even my little one can tell you, baby steps are how every journey begins … In fact, The
Nature Conservancy of Texas has learned that more than 50 percent of Americans want to live
an environmentally conscious lifestyle but many don’t know what to do to make a significant
difference for the health of the planet.
According to a recent Harris Poll on green living, supported by The Nature Conservancy, nearly
three-quarters of Americans believe their actions can make a difference in protecting the
environment. About half of them are recycling.
Yet, beyond recycling, fewer than 5 percent of those making lifestyle changes to “go green”
have taken other important steps, such as consolidating driving trips to reduce gas use, using
utilities wisely or using energy-efficient light bulbs, Harris reports.
Some simple things people can do to help safeguard natural resources include:
• Bring their own re-usable bags to the store when they shop.
• Pay and receive bills online to save paper and trees.
• Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs to save energy.
• Water gardens before 10 a.m. and after 8 p.m. to reduce moisture loss through evaporation.
• Make sure car tires are properly inflated to save gas.
The Harris Poll found that 53 percent of those surveyed have taken steps to green their lives.
At the same time, 34 percent said they hadn’t changed their lifestyle because they “did not
know what to do.”
If every American home switched out just one incandescent light bulb for
a compact fluorescent one, the United States would save enough energy
to light more than 3 million homes for an entire year, according to the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy.
However, only a small fraction of those polled have made this change.
I’m about half-way there – replacing my old bulbs with a new CFL
bulb as they burn out one by one. And, as of Jan. 1, I’ve resolved to
bring the plastic bags from my last grocery trip back with me each
time I shop. Online bill pay, here I come! If you only do one small
green thing this year, you can be part of making the end that is near
as far away as possible. Why not resolve to try?
Angel Jenkins Morris is a freelance writer in Dallas, Texas, who is baby

stepping into green living. She can be reached at
senioreditor@adistinctivestyle.com.

Green Resolutions
When it comes to living green, every effort makes a difference in the health of the
planet. The Nature Conservancy of Texas encourages individuals and families to
choose one or a combination of the following 12 simple steps for a more
environmentally friendly lifestyle. Texans choosing greener lifestyles may also end up
healthier in mind, body and bank account.
1. Ride your bike, walk, carpool or take public transportation whenever possible. The
fluctuating cost of gas makes this increasingly attractive.
2. When you do drive, combine errands and plan trips for efficiency, and make sure your
tires are properly inflated to save gas.
3. Find out where your food comes from. Locally-grown food saves energy compared to
food transported from far away.
4. Recycle your old computer. As of September 1, some states require computer

manufacturers to recycle the computers they sold to consumers for home use. The
service will be provided free. Visit the manufacturer’s web site to find out more.
5. Measure your “carbon footprint” using The Nature Conservancy’s carbon footprint
calculator (nature.org/texas) to see how your family’s everyday decisions may be
contributing to global warming. In the process, you will learn ways you can reduce
your impact on our climate.
6. Bring your own bags to the store. Re-use those plastic grocery bags cluttering up your
pantry, or use permanent shopping bags.
7. Look for reduced packaging on all products and choose recycled paper products. Then
recycle containers and packaging materials.
8. Pay your bills online to save trees, stamps and trips to the post office. Many businesses
are now offering customers the option of “going paperless” by receiving and paying
their bills online.
9. Compost leftover vegetables and fruit. You will reduce the amount of
waste you send to the landfill and enrich your garden in the process
– and you won’t need to buy fertilizer.
10. Use native plants in landscaping. They’ll thrive with fewer

headaches and less water. Use mulch to save water, too.
11. Choose “greener” cleaning products that are biodegradable

and don’t contain phosphates. Or try using vinegar, baking
soda or lemon juice.
12. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent

ones. They cost a bit more but use less energy, last longer and
will save you money in the long run.
Additional information, including a related podcast interview with
Nature Conservancy staff and a downloadable poster with green tips,
can be found online at nature.org/texas.

Autistic
student
DRIVES
crowd
wild!

By ANGEL JENKINS MORRIS
Fashion week, magazine covers and celebrity clients were

nothing compared to her father’s happy dance.
That’s when jewelry designer Keren Peled knew she had arrived.
“My father was very disappointed when I quit my corporate job to go into jewelry design, but he said he wasn’t
surprised.‘You’ve been playing with shiny things since you were 5 years old,’ he said.”
Upon receiving her largest order in September 2008, Keren’s father showed his approval through dance.
je
“I’d never seen him that enthusiastic before,” Keren said.“It really was one of the three highlights of my career so far.”
The other two were?The aforementioned involvement in shows at Bryant Park, in LA and a“Good Morning
America” episode featuring musical talent Alicia Keys.
“She wore my earrings inTimes Square,” Keren said.
Before celebrity clients such as Keys,Vivica Fox, Jill Scott and two Miss Universe’s became interested in her styles, Peled was just
beginning to learn the ropes of the jewelry industry.
“Jewelry has always been my hobby since a very young age, but I also discovered I was good at math,” Keren explained.“So I went to
college, got a degree in statistics and got a job as an analyst. It just seemed like the practical thing to do.”
But when co-workers began raving over the jewelry Keren would design and wear to work, her creative side began to overrule.
“People would get so excited over my jewelry and they would say, ‘What are you doing here?’ about my job as a
statistician. Eventually, I began asking myself the same thing.”
Some time off to travel, tours of several Northern California boutiques, and
a focus group of girlfriends later, Keren Jewelry was born.
“I quit my job in 2003 and took some time to clear my head.Then I got
about 10 friends together to look at my designs which, at the time, were all
over the place,” Keren said.
The friends all agreed on a signature look, as did a number of area stores, some of which purchased
Keren’s pieces on the spot. “At that point I knew I was on to something,” she said.
A six-week crash course with the Small Business Administration led to Keren’s logo, website, and some
ewelry
fundamental business knowledge.
“The more I got into it, the more I discovered I didn’t know about business. It was a huge mountain to
climb,” Keren said.
But her expedition has been, well, expeditious. In 2004, Keren’s work landed a spot in the National Art Exhibit, at
Artisans in Mill Valley, CA.The exhibit was juried by Marian Parmenter, executive director and founder, San Francisco
Museum of Modern Art – Artists Gallery.
Keren also displayed her work at The International Juried Exhibition, Manifestations: Form & Function, Denise Bibro Fine
Art Gallery, New York City.
In 2005 HGTV’s “That’s Clever” (formerly known as “Crafter’s Coast to Coast”) aired a segment on Keren’s work.
On the fashion side, Keren has participated in NY Fashion Week twice in 2006, once in 2007 and also on the runway of
LA Fashion Week in 2008.
Keren incorporates sterling silver and 14-karat gold-
filled wire, with semi-precious gemstones such as
Amber, Garnet, Labradorite and Freshwater pearls
in her jewelry. Her favorite technique is macramé
knotting with wire, something the women in her
family have practiced through the generations.
“The pieces are very customizable and they are
for a special kind of person – someone who wants
something that’s not from the same cookie sheet
as other jewelry,” Keren said.
For example, while many other jewelers’ lines
are dubbed with ordinary female names, Keren’s
are named for Greek Goddesses.
“My first piece was Aphrodite,” Keren said. “I think
this gives my work a little more energy; makes it a
little more spiritual. For me, that’s definitely what
it’s all about.”
And, of course, it gives her father reason to dance.
See Keren’s store gallery and jewelry as featured
in magazines such as In Style and Essence, at
www.kerenjewelry.com
jewelry

Jessica Sauér - Super Angel
By Suzanne B
As a designer, I feel models under the age of 21 lack strength and courage. I knew then that community service
maturity and life experience and are unable to convey the would be a big part of my life.”
womanly sensuality of the TropiCouture line. However, It’s easy to see how this amazing young lady
Jessica Sauér is an exception to the rule. Jessica is one of blossomed into her own love of community service
the amazing models who regularly walk the runway for since Jessica’s mom, Brenda, has won several outstanding
my couture design studio,TropiCouture. As I’ve come to awards for her charitable service to her Houston
know her, I’ve discovered she’s not only amazing on the community.
catwalk, but also an incredible person in her own right. Jessica also has a more personal reason to help others.
In today’s America where most teenagers are more “My brother Zacharey has Autism and he’s my inspiration
consumed with their looks and all the latest ‘it’ and my motivation. He’s an honor student and is in his
merchandise....this young beauty is thinking of others 3rd year of Varsity Bowling. Unfortunately he’s
and a world that’s bigger than her own. been bullied and made fun of all his life. He’s tried so hard
Jessica Sauér was born on March 11, 1990 at L.B.J. to fit into our lives, but it’s us that should try to fit into his
Hospital...around1:00 in the morning in the middle of world. Our motto is; ‘When Life Hands you Lemons, make
the hallway. It seemed she was anxious to begin her Lemonade!’ ” So they joined Best Buddies International.
extraordinary life. She’s a young woman who is (An organization to enhance the lives of people with
comfortable being the center of attention, on or off the intellectual disabilities. www.bestbuddies.or g)
runway. It’s not just her beauty and friendly personality
that seems to attract people wherever she goes, but also
her warm and caring heart.
At the age of 8, Jessica told her mother she wanted to
be a model. When asked why, her answer was, “So I can
be famous and help the world to be a better place.” She
was not only a budding future Super Model, but also an
emerging philanthropist!
Jessica is actively involved in charities that benefit the
Sunshine Kids (a nonprofit organization dedicated to
children with cancer www.sunshinekids.or g), Methodist
Foster Home, Harris County Foster Home, Elderly homes, the
Special Rodeo, and Best Buddies.. She also has a mentoring
blog on MySpace for kids in violent relationships,
M.Y._T.E.A.R.S. Are YOUR TEARS! Jessica Sauér
When asked what her most inspiring moment was
while doing charity work, Jessica told me it was a show
she did for The Sunshine Kids. “I was there entertaining
them, clogging and trick roping, and the children were
laughing. For a moment I let them forget about their
Cancer. I felt so shallow; they were admiring me
and asking for my autograph. I had tears in my eyes
because I was admiring them and their families for their

With all the time spent involved with her community
endeavors, I wondered how she was able to balance her
modeling, acting, work, and school. She didn’t hesitate with
her answer, “I am very busy, but school comes first. I’m in
Student Council and we do a lot of charity work there as
well. (They once raised money to help pay hospital bills for
her physics teacher’s brain surgery!) My G.P.A. is 4.07 and
I’m taking two college classes in high school.” Once she
graduates, she’s considering becoming an ultra
sound technician.
Jessica has rocked the runway for TropiCouture and
many other designers in Texas. She’s a consummate
professional with a killer walk and a joy to work with.
AND she can really sell a dress! I asked Jessica what she
loved most about modeling. She told me, “I love runway
modeling because I get to tell a story with beautiful
clothing and to tell the story of the designer’s vision.”
Her dream is to be Americas’ Next Top Model 2010..
She has already been accepted to be on the show when
she turns 18. She’s also looking for a major talent/
modeling agency to represent her. Listen up talent
agents...this girl will be a modeling gold mine!
Jessica’s second love is acting. She’s been featured on
Great Day Houston, on Friday Night Lights twice, been cast
for two TV Talk shows on cable (Teen Scene on ION) and
finished 5 movies….all in less than a year. Jessica even
performed for celebrities and V.I.P.’s at the 2004
Super Bowl!
So how does all the celebrity affect this Texas Rose?
Jessica says, “I am just an ordinary teenager at school.
Not many other students know that I’m a professional
model/actress/entertainer. I don’t like to tell others
because I don’t want anyone to treat me differently.”
As I see it...Jessica IS different. She goes the extra mile to
make sure that others have what they need. She is giving in
her personal life...and her professional life (always helping
other models backstage at fashion shows). Some might see
her as a young over achiever....but that would be our own
guilt for not making the most of our own lives. I see her as
a rising star.
Jessica strives to inspire others to believe in themselves What’s on the immediate horizon for this rising star?
and live their dreams. With her parent’s support of her life Jessica will be competing for Ford Super Model of the
and career goals, she’s an inspiration to other young year 2009.
women. Her philosophy for life is “to be positive and
surround yourself with positive people. Go out and start a If you’d like to book Jessica for a show or shoot, you
community project and leave a mark on the world. Stand can contact Brenda Sauér at 832-978-4738, or on
up for what you believe in.” www.myspace .com/HoustonsModel

DON'T CALL ME DISABLED!
How Kelly Knox became a top
model despite being born
with half an arm
It is the eyes that stand out first, that intense gaze into the
camera that all good models have. Not until the second glance
do you notice Kelly Knox is a little different from the rest.
Miss Knox, who was born without a left forearm, has won a
BBC3 competition to find the UK's best disabled model.
Her prize was a contract with a top agency, Take 2 Model

Management, and a fashion shoot for Marie Claire magazine,
which produced the pictures seen here.
Miss Knox, 23, who vowed at seven never to wear a prosthetic

arm, claimed she never classified herself as disabled, until she
decided to enter Britain's Missing Top Model.
And she doesn't intend her differences to influence her

career in the fashion industry. She said: 'In my household
we don't use the word disabled. Never have done, never
will do. 'I don't feel disabled but society will label me as
being disabled.'
Miss Knox lives with her mother Jackie, 61, in Enfield,

North London. She beat hundreds of applicants to appear
on the BBC show.
The disabilities among the eight finalists ranged from

profound deafness to brain injury. The girls were put
through six weeks of modelling tests before the winner
was chosen by a panel of judges. Through her triumph,
Miss Knox knows she could pave the way for others in her
situation.
Her condition is not genetic, according to doctors, but is

just something that happens 'by mistake'. 'It's more likely
to be on the left-hand side and it's more common in girls
than boys,' she said.

'I've had so many messages from people who have been
born like this and parents of children who say I am such an
inspiration. 'That makes me think, "That's why I did the
competition."' She credited her two brothers Colin, 34, and
Karl, 37, for enabling her to stand up for herself.
'At school I was never bullied - which I think makes me very

lucky as I know a lot of people would have been bullied.
'Some people born this way have a tough time.' Miss Knox
added: 'I know it sounds really strange but the only time I
get the hump is when I get a piece of tough meat on my
plate and I can't get into it.
Her current job, as a credit controller for a soft furnishings

company, is worlds away from modelling. She said: 'If I could
give up credit control for modelling of course I would.
'Having a taste of that life has made me realise just how
much I would love to do it.'
Marie O'Riordan, editor of Marie Claire, said: 'To get

disability discussed on the sofas throughout the land is no
mean feat and using a popular format of a reality show was
a clever way of seducing viewers into a more complex
world.
'We hope this does pave the way for girls with disabilities to
get into modelling in the future.'
To read the complete story about Kelly, go to:

http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/search.html?q=kelly+knox&search=

V i c k i e Jo n e s B e l l – T h e S o u l f u l A r t i s t
By Surinder Moore
Vickie Jones Bell began her art career exploring

South Western style abstract painting
techniques. She graduated with a degree in Art
Education the University of Maryland and since
then Vickie has incorporated a more spiritual
and soulful theme into her art.
Inspired by the kindred spirit that women
share, Vickie began to infuse her paintings with
various depictions of African-American culture.
A profound sense of sisterhood and bonding
comes through in Vickie’s paintings, and the
richness of African American culture is
expressed throughout her art by using bold
colors, ethnic imagery and intricate patterns.
Vickie uses taping, stenciling, and splattering
methods to achieve the multi-layer effect in her
artwork and using Acrylic paints allows her to
expand the applications.
Another subject that’s strongly represented in
Vickie’s work is, children. Vickie’s “Qb Kids”
collection was born out of a desire to reflect
children of color through art. Vickie said, “There
are not enough reflections of young children of
color…we need to show more positive
impressions of kids.”
Over the years Vickie source for inspiration
has come from an assortment of magazines,
books, mixed textiles and interior designs. But Vickie enthusiasts enjoy an evening of fine wine and cheese, and
attributes much of her creative growth to her friend Gilda experience art up-close and personal with the artist, Vickie.
who has sadly passed, and is depicted in the first painting Creating the artwork is just one part of the creative
shown on Vickie’s website. The painting, named Gilda, shows process. Vickie states, “Framing the painting is just as
a woman holding a potted plant. Vickie explained that the important… it’s the icing on the cake.” Each painting
potted plant represents planting the creative and spiritual receives a customized picture frame that compliments the
seed. Whenever Vickie had doubts about her artistic ability colors, pattern or style of the finished piece. Incredibly
Gilda would say, “Always cherish your God-given talents and selective about choosing a frame, Vickie will sometimes go
the long line of master craft folks you come from.” through ten or so frames before deciding on the perfect
With kindred artistic spirits and like-minds for business one. She also installs the painting, assisting with finding the
Vickie and Gilda decided to join forces on a business perfect space to display the art in the client’s home.
venture called “Soko Ya Sanna” which literally means ‘Art The impression that Vickie left upon us after our interview
Market’ in Swahili. The event was open to the public and is akin to the core theme of her beautiful artwork – That
showcased various artwork, handcrafted items, she is one very soulful and spiritual Sista!
contemporary and ethnic home accessories. Vickie continues For more information about this artist please visit:
to have an “Art Market” of sorts in her home, where art www.vbartwork.com
SilverPeanut Jewelry Creations
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WATCH
VIDEO
TO SEE MORE
CLICK HERE
“I believe
we’re all
put on
this earth
to contribute
in a way
that is a
reflection
of our
passions
and our
skills.”
~ Co l le e n
P a tr i c k - G o u d r e a u

Although she grew up “pretty much eating everything
that swam, walked, or flew” New Jersey-raised Colleen
Patrick-Goudreau read a book that changed her eating
habits and her life. By ANGEL JENKINS MORRIS
Prior to “Diet for a New America,” Colleen said she “ate people had the same reaction.
what (her) folks) fed her.” “Once they heard about what we do to the animals,
“I never ate processed meats, such as sausage and their first question is always ‘How can this happen?’ and
pepperoni, but I don’t think it was for any conscious ‘How could I not have known?’ But it was their subsequent
reason,” she said. “I owe amends mostly to chickens, I think. questions that led me to begin teaching cooking classes:
I remember eating chickens somewhat frequently – some Where do I shop? What do I eat? How do I cook? Will
kind of cream of chicken concoction was something I get enough protein? What do I feed my family?”
I made frequently. I didn’t know any better.” Colleen realized the need for Compassionate Cooks
“New America,” however, was an education in why and its resources was great.
the then 19-year-old might change her diet. “People wanted to know what to eat and how to cook,
“I had never seen the images of the animals in and I just responded with cooking classes,” Colleen
confinement like that. It was very powerful for me. I explained.
remember literally staring at the photos for hours, just “I just kept asking ‘What is the need and how can I fill it?’
back and forth, in utter shock,” Colleen said. “I had been so and the answers continued to come. When people asked
clueless up until then. I was also fascinated by the nutrition when I would be on TV, I responded with a DVD to
info, and it’s when I realized how unnecessary it is to increase the reach for people who don’t live in the San
consume animals.” Francisco area. When a publisher approached me to write
As a result, Colleen eventually founded Compassionate a cookbook, I wrote it. When I saw the dearth of veg-
Cooks – to help people make informed food choices and related articles and editorials in the media, I wrote. When
debunking myths about vegetarianism and animal rights I realized I had something to offer by way of podcasts, I
through cooking classes, workshops, articles, a Vegetarian stepped in.”
Food for Thought podcast, a vegetarian cooking DVD, and Beyond these things, Colleen said the intent behind
an award-winning cookbook “The Joy of Vegan Baking.” Compassionate Cooks is simple: “To raise awareness
“Initially I began doing outreach and education, informing about the suffering of animals, to be their voice, to speak
others about what I learned, but I was still disconnected. my truth, and to empower people to make informed
I was eating animals from the sea, and I was consuming food choices.”
chickens’ eggs and cows’ milk,” Colleen said. “My final “I believe we’re all put on this earth to contribute in a
awakening came once I read ‘Slaughterhouse: The Shocking way that is a reflection of our passions and our skills. I
Story of Greed, Neglect, and Inhumane Treatment Inside knew when I left graduate school that I was going to do
the U.S. Meat Industry’ by investigative journalist Gail something related to writing, communication, and animal
Eisnitz. I woke up to the truth about our treatment of rights, but I had no idea what it was going to look like,”
animals and realized that no matter how they are raised Colleen said.
and what they are raised for (their flesh, eggs, milk), Today Colleen said she most enjoys hearing from
they all wind up in the same horrible place: the podcast listeners who share their eating transformation
slaughterhouse.” stories. She encourages anyone thinking of changing their
“I had been deceived into believing that somehow the diet to do so, even if they start with baby steps.
chickens’ eggs and cows’ milk I had been consuming were “My eating has evolved so much from when I first
from animals who were protected from harm and even embarked on this journey 20 years ago. I don’t want
spared death. I was very wrong. The process of breeding, people to think this process happens overnight,” she said.
transporting, and killing young and innocent lives is ugly “Over time my habits and palate have changed so though I
and violent, and death does not come easy for those ate a lot more processed veg foods when I first became
who want to live.” vegetarian and then vegan, my favorite meal today is
At this point, Colleen said her outreach “increased something like my garlic and greens soup – kale is my
tenfold,” and the more it did, the more she found that favorite food ever – my blueberry smoothie, and a really
good salad. Eating an abundance of whole foods is
something that developed over time for me, but it is
definitely what I emphasize in my work teaching others
to cook and eat healthfully.”
Changing the way one eats is as much about changing
how one thinks as it is changing one’s diet.
“The primary thing I try to do is take veganism out of
the box. I encourage people to recognize that what we
call vegan food is food they are already familiar with:
vegetables, fruits, beans, grains, mushrooms, nuts, seeds,
herbs, and spices,” Colleen explained.
In the case of baked goods, it’s flour, sugar, cocoa,
chocolate, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch,
and yeast.
“I focus on the normalcy of what we call vegan food –
whether it’s cooking or baking. I think that really helps
people relax into these new habit changes and it just
makes it a lot less daunting.” A common assertion
Colleen hears is that someone could stop eating all
animal products except one item, usually cheese.
“And I say, ‘Well, then stop eating all other animal
products except cheese for now –at least do what you’re
able and willing to do,” Colleen said. “Each step will bring
you closer to the person you really want to be, to the
animals you want to help, and the health you want to
achieve. But to continue eating animal flesh and animal
milk or eggs because you can’t give up cheese – it’s an
absurd rationalization. “Don’t do nothing because you
can’t do everything. Do something. Anything.”
Aside from her most obvious eco-friendly behavior of
not eating animals, Colleen also shops green.
“We buy most of our produce from local farmers, this
goes for the food in my cooking classes, too; we hardly
drive – my husband takes public transit and I work from
home – and when we do, we drive our Prius; we grow
our own vegetables (with no animal products) and
planted several fruit trees,” Colleen said. “We have rain-
catcher tanks so we can use rain water for irrigation; we
removed our front lawn and replaced it with a garden
(and drought-tolerant plants); we’re composting maniacs;
and I use only compostable plates/forks/bowls/spoons in
my cooking classes.”
To learn more about these efforts, visit
www.compassionatecooks.com/, where you may
even communicate with Colleen herself.
“I feel like we’re all on a journey together, and I just
love hearing about how people experienced their own
awakenings. Those are my absolute favorite encounters,”
Colleen said. “I’m thrilled to be able to spend all my time
devising ways to educate and empower people. I feel so
very grateful to do this work.”

How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a
woodchuck could chuck wood? If you ask Stephen
McMenamin, the answer is “None of it.”
environment –
in mind.
iWo
“We have had huge acceptance and
That’s because McMenamin, founder of iWood encouragement from fashion insiders and editors.
ecodesign is putting wood to better use in custom They like how the frames fit and look on the face,”
sunglasses and jewelry. Stephen said.
“The intent was not to be eco-friendly, but to offer Each pair of iWood
a superior alternative to plastic which happened to sunglasses uses eco-
be wood. Wood is lighter, better fitting and worn to sustainable, exotic
see and touch which in the end becomes fashion,” wood veneer. All
Stephen said. “The fact is that quality is always first iWood products are
and every step we use in production requires individually crafted
manufacturing methods that are sustainable.” with the most
McMenamin started iWood in 2005 after 11 years modern techniques
of research and development and eight years of combined with old
doing business under another name. world craftsmanship to insure products adhere to
With only limited quantities of wooden sunglasses the highest standards, according to McMenamin.
produced each year, iWood customers join a unique “The fact that the sunglasses are eco-friendly is a
crowd. requirement of using production methods where the
“The challenge has always been that most ultimate goal is quality. There is no substitute for
everyone accepts plastic, thinking there is no hard work,” he said.
alternative, and when they see an elite designer The effort has paid off in industry praise.
name attached to the product it is falsely perceived “Our most successful product design is coming in
as being quality,” Stephen said. “Plastic is a total cost- our new collection that will be introduced spring
cutting material.” 2009. We have already received incredibly positive
iWood products, on the other hand, are designed feedback from senior editors from elite international
with fashion – and, more importantly, the magazines,” Stephen said.

ood Despite the
acclaim,
McMenamin said he isn’t as interested in popularity
hammered brass and other unique earth elements.
While McMenamin declines to name drop, his
wares have been featured on “Oprah” and “Mar tha
as he is in creating a green product. Stewart,” and in top fashion magazines including
“There is much more emphasis on green Cosmopolitan, Glamour and Vogue.
manufacturing now. Everyone wants or
claims to be green. Only a select “Today you have celebrities putting their names on
few are truly green. iWood is things they have no knowledge of. We don’t depend
100 percent green from start on celebrity attachment to promote our product,”
to finish.” McMenamin said. “Making a superior-quality product
iWood wooden sunglass that allows no room for cost-cutting, non-sustainable
temples are imported from manufacturing attracts celebrities themselves to us.”
Italy and fully adjustable. Sorry, Mr. Woodchuck. Looks like iWood has got
The lenses, also imported this covered.
from Italy, are optical quality
with 100 percent UVA/UVB protection. To view iWood products online, visit
All aspects – from the finish to the temples – are www.iwoodecodesign.com/
hypoallergenic. These features combined
with the qualities of wood deliver a
lightweight, bold, international
statement, Stephen said.
iWood sunglasses can be fitted
with prescription lenses and have a
one-year warrantee against material
and workmanship defects. His
handmade jewelry – rings, earrings and
bangles – feature teak, handmade bronze,

ON EMPTY (OUT OF TIME) BY BILL ROTH
This book is described by readers as America’s final “wake-up
call.” Since the 1974 oil embargo we have been promised Energy
Independence and lower prices. Instead we are now paying 10
times more for oil and we are importing 4 times as much. And we
are now out of time. We face a recession because of high oil prices
and the military cost of protecting someone else’s oil fields. And
a new crisis, Global Warming, is emerging.
On Empty graphically details the imminent threat of economic
and environmental disaster and proposes fresh solutions for
achieving a “Man on the Moon” crash program of deploying
American-owned sustainable technologies. And it outlines how
you, the American Consumer, will lead the charge.
The author Bill Roth has a solid experience in the
energy sector, with a career that included posts such as
senior VP of marketing and sales with PG&E Energy
Services and COO of Texaco Ovonics Hydrogen
Solutions. Currently he is the President of NCCT, a San
Francisco-based consulting firm helping businesses define and integrate sustainability into their
strategies, performance metrics, branding/marketing and business processes. He is also
Entrepreneur.com’s Green Business Coach.
Bill Roth is collaborating with Eco-Libris to plant a tree for every copy sold, and readers gets their
copy with our sticker saying “One tree planted for this book.”
THE WHITE ROAD AND OTHER STORIES BY TANIA HERSHMAN

What links a café in Antarctica, a factory for producing electronic tracking tags and a casino where
gamblers can wager their shoes? They’re among the multiple venues where Tania Hershman sets
her unique tales in this spellbinding debut collection.
A number of these stories are inspired by articles from science magazines, taking fact as their
starting points and wondering what might happen if ...? In these surreal, lyrical stories, many of
which are only a few pages long, Tania Hershman allows her imagination free rein, as her characters
navigate through love, death, friendship, spirituality, mental illness
and the havoc wreaked by the weather.
Tania Hershman (TaniaHershman.com) was born in London in 1970
and in 1994 moved to Jerusalem, Israel, where she now lives with her
partner. Tania is a former science journalist and her award-winning
short stories combine her two loves: fiction and science. Many of
Tania’s stories, which have been broadcast on BBC Radio 4 and
published in print and online, are inspired by articles from
popular science magazines. In November 2007, she
founded The Short Review, a unique website dedicated to
reviewing short story collections. For further information,
visit the White Road and Other Stories. Tania blogs at
TitaniaWrites.
Hershman is planting a tree with Eco-Libris for every copy
printed. Eco-Libris logo saying “One tree planted for this book” is also
printed on the rear cover of the book.

Fashion
WITH A POSITIVE SPIN
Remember “Richistan,” that country of the (like your favorite cashmere sweater) and
super wealthy described last year by author turning down the thermostat a bit, recycling,
Robert Frank? Well...it’s now called “Thriftistan.” re-using and shopping local, exploring the
more affordable (yet undiscovered and
A stream of dismal economic news, from fabulous) couture designers and boutiques.
corporate bankruptcies and mass layoffs to the
depressed stock market, has chastened even In this flailing economy, as the big couture
the most enthusiastic luxury consumer. The houses close up shop in the US and flee to
rallying cry “Shop till you drop” has been Europe and the luxury department stores cut
replaced by “Save and shop wise.” back on high end designers, products and
employees, we are all being forced to rethink
Conspicuous over-the-top consumption is over our values. When we all come back down to
(at least for now) and conscious consumption is earth it’s the things that cost nothing or
becoming the new ‘chic.’ Lavish spending and very little that bring the most pleasure for
flaunting your wealth was becoming unpopular me. Creating a new dress, planting flowers,
in some elite circles even before the economy spending a day at the beach, throwing a
went south. dinner party or backyard BBQ with friends
and family....this is the new CHIC. No
I don’t see this as a bad thing...we need to step matter what your income level.
back and evaluate what’s really important
for our own lives as well as the environment. So, with that said, I’ve found a few
Simply put...quality as opposed to quantity is great things that won’t break the bank!
the current focus.
I know we’re all watching our wallets but
Getting caught up in the idea that the more get real, we’ve all got that “shopping
expensive something is, the better it is...has gene,” and nothing beats the blues like
suddenly become a foolish notion. Our a good bargain. So in case you get the
capitalist house of cards has collapsed. It’s urge, here are some great eco fashion
slowly starting to sink in that having a flat finds you can guiltlessly fit into your fall
screen TV in every room, a gas guzzling SUV, and winter wardrobe. Each for less than
a private jet, a mega yacht and outrageously $100! Check them out!
expensive couture isn’t the be all end all for
a luxurious life. Ciao for Now!
Your Texas Tropi~Couturier
It’s becoming chic to turn off lights in empty Suzanne B www.tropicouture.net
rooms, wear warmer clothing indoors MizB_Fashion@adistinctivestyle.com
Lotta Jansdotter Tote Bag
Kate Organics Tokyo Dress Tre’ cool bag! Simple,
100% organic cotton, waffle roomy and the print and
knit dress with a wide style are simple and
(non-choking) turtleneck modern. Only $96!
is sophisticated and At beklina.com
almost avant garde in
style. AND it’s only $84!
At btcelements.com
Exotica from TropiCouture

by Suzanne B
This hand made “Alexis”
Lapis and Coral pendant
necklace can be worn to
dress up or dress down.
A one of a kind piece
for only $70!
At TropiCouture
281-257-8759 Edie Dress
Mod styling, 60’s
chic, take on the
little black dress.
Hemp and tencel
with an olive color
Song Tao Cardigan block at the hem.
A fitted bamboo and Only $72!
natural cotton sweater At mountainsofthemoon.com
withshort sleeves and a
snap front. It’s a good
fall & winter staple.
$60 at Saks 5th Avenue
CALLING ALL PET LOVERS - BAND TOGETHER TO SAVE A PET
PetcareRx.com, a premier on-line discount retailer of pet
pharmaceuticals and supplies, announces the launch of the
‘I Saved a Pet’ campaign — a national initiative aimed at supporting
pet rescue groups and no-kill shelters that give abandoned,
neglected, and abused animals a second chance.
For a pledge of $1.00, donors will receive one royal blue rubber
Carry your pet in style! The wristband imprinted with the words ‘I Saved a Pet’. 100% of the
Fundle® Ultimate Pet Sling proceeds will go to a sponsored shelter chosen by PetCareRx.
features pipe cushion chin Wristbands can be purchased at www.petcarerx.com or
rests and front slant bottom, through (800) 844.1427. All proceeds go directly to rescue
FAV PET
which provide security to groups and no-kill shelters.
your pet as if held by your
arms. Every Fundle® Ultimate
Pet Sling comes with a wide
padded shoulder strap, dual
side outside pockets, and
jump-off-prevention features.
Available in mini, standard &
large sizes, and more than 20
varieties in trendy colors and
funky patterns.
www.gramercypet.com
GREEN PAWS™ is the first “All Green

our packaging. We currently offer fou
Dog Shampoo with Tea Tree and A
Shampoo which is Unscented, an Uns
able Resources, and Our Pet Safe
Household Hard Surface Cleaner
which Meets the U.S.A. Green Stan-
dard. All of Green Paws™ products
are bottled in 100% Recyclable food
grade bottles (#1 pete plastic) and
labeled with Biodegradable labels!
GREEN PAWS™ products are benefi-
cial, safe, eco-friendly, and effective
for our loved pets.We have removed
all artificial foaming agents such as
SLS and SLES, wetting agents like
In June 2008, the Newman’s Own Organics added a line of organic, grain-free, canned beef and liver products DEA, free of all PARABENS, artificial
for cats and dogs. Pet owners will appreciate the fact that it’s a complete and balanced food that provides all dyes, and artificial fragrances. This
the essential vitamins and minerals your furry babies need. ensures you are getting the safest,
www.newmansownorganics.com and gentlest products.
greenpawsdirect.com/products.cfm

HUGG-A-PLANET’S ORGANIC FOUNDLINGS are safe, adorable, and all PUPPY-PENZ KENNEL
natural toy animals created with the Puppy-Penz are indoor
environmental concerns of kennels that feature
our fragile planet in mind. “built- in” restroom
The eight soft Foundling facilities for dogs and
animals are available in puppies (up to 40lbs).
your choice of teddy bear, Puppy-Penz feature,
elephant, rabbit, bunny, dog, freedom, convenience,
puppy, whale, and turtle. They safety and peace of
are made with 100% organic, mind. This ingenious
pesticide-free, unbleached product dramatically
cotton shell and interior raises the standard of
produced in the United States, care for the crated
and the lovable animals’ eyes dog, making them a
are embroidered to help “Mercedes-Penz” in comparison to any other crate or kennel on the
ensure the safety of young market today. Puppy-Penz are not just kennels, but serve many other
children, as well as the planet. Parents can feel at ease with one of uses, such as a puppy play pen or indoor dog toilet. Puppy-Penz
the Foundlings in their childrens’ hands, and confident that they are provides a safe, familiar and sanitary environment for your pet, and
doing their planet good. Children of all ages will enjoy and love these were specifically designed to fulfill some of their most basic needs.
extremely huggable, cute and cuddly creatures. The Foundlings are The entire base is manufactured from virgin ABS plastic, allowing the
from the same makers of the trusted, top-quality Hugg-A-Planet system to be strong yet flexible for comfort. Your product includes:
line, which has been featured in more than a dozen popular movies Puppy-Penz kennel and removable step, PupGrass insert (for instant
and TV shows—such as Oprah, Gilmore Girls, Six Feet Under— drainage), a 3 gallon removable waste container, a 32 oz bottle of
and is a favorite among many celebrities, including Nicolette Puppy-Penz deodorizer, food and water dishes and poop scoop.
Sheridan, Fergie and the Black Eyed Peas. www.peacetoys.com www.puppypenz.com
CONTOUR BED FOR THE PET NEEDING LUXURY

Inspired by modernist designers can instantly change the look from a
Charles and Ray Eames, the Contour stylish fashion color to more neutral,
modern dog bed was conceived for and back again. The cover is machine-
bigger dogs (or for smaller dogs or washable and can zip on and off in just
cats who like to bunk together). The seconds.The Contour bed comes with
Contour’s micro-suede, reversible a sleek aluminum frame. It’s durable,
cover gives you two beds in one: water-resistant nylon shell can be
by simply reversing the covers, you wiped clean and inhibits odors from
permeating the bed.
www.reddoghouse.com/shop/detail.asp?id=6897
n” pet care line. We are Green from our formulas to

ur unique products; Our Certified Organic Itch Relief WHIMSICLE PET FOOD BOWLS
Aloe Vera, a Certified Organic Sensitive Skin Dog
scented Odor & Stain Eliminator Made From Renew- When Bumble Bear, my beloved Old English Sheepdog,
soul mate and best friend for
12 magical years passed
away January 2008,
I needed to find a
way to transform
my grief into some-
thing creative. Being
a potter, I started
turning out this
unique line of pet
bowls in his honor. Ten
percent of each purchase
goes to the “Emergency Animal Rescue Service”* in his name. Like Bumble Bear, all Bum’s
Bowls are fun, whimsical, and colorful for both dogs & cats. Each bowl is an original, hand turned,
hand painted and glazed, never duplicated.These bowls can be customized with a name plaque,
applique and/or a matching pendant in any of the 18 dog breeds listed. All bowls are food safe
and hand washable. http://you-clay-me.com

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2009
FASHION ISSUE
A DISTINCTIVE STYLE MAGAZINE

publisher | ceo DENISE MARIE
creative director DENISE MARIE
editor-in-chief SURINDER MOORE
senior editor ANGEL JENkINS MORRIS
copy editor MARY MORGAN art director MAYTHE CARpENTINO
contibuting writers SURINDER MOORE | ANGEL JENkINS MORRIS
HALEY HAGAN | kRISTEN MCHENRY | SUZANNE B | ZOé GREENwOOD
director of sales & marketing LORRI THOMAS | sales@adistinctivestyle.com
corporate office dallas texas | 972 293 9382 | adistinctivestyle.com | info@adistinctivestyle.com

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Mosaic

Photo by Zara Tareen | H&Z Productions

“Non-violence leads to the highest ethics, which

Angel Jenkins Morris is a freelance writer in Dallas, Texas, who is baby

14 A DISTINCTIVE STYLE ~ Jan/Feb 2009

4. Recycle your old computer. As of September 1, some states require computer

10. Use native plants in landscaping. They’ll thrive with fewer

11. Choose “greener” cleaning products that are biodegradable

12. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent

Jan/Feb 2009 ~ ADISTINCTIVESTYLE 15

22 A DISTINCTIVE STYLE ~ Jan/Feb 2009

Fashion week, magazine covers and celebrity clients were

26 A DISTINCTIVE STYLE ~ Jan/Feb 2009

Jan/Feb 2009 ~ ADISTINCTIVESTYLE 29

Jan/Feb 2009 ~ ADISTINCTIVESTYLE 31

Her prize was a contract with a top agency, Take 2 Model

Miss Knox, 23, who vowed at seven never to wear a prosthetic

And she doesn't intend her differences to influence her

Miss Knox lives with her mother Jackie, 61, in Enfield,

The disabilities among the eight finalists ranged from

Her condition is not genetic, according to doctors, but is

36 A DISTINCTIVE STYLE ~ Jan/Feb 2009

'At school I was never bullied - which I think makes me very

Her current job, as a credit controller for a soft furnishings

Marie O'Riordan, editor of Marie Claire, said: 'To get

To read the complete story about Kelly, go to:

Jan/Feb 2009 ~ ADISTINCTIVESTYLE 37

Vickie Jones Bell began her art career exploring

74 A DISTINCTIVE STYLE ~ Jan/Feb 2009

76 A DISTINCTIVE STYLE ~ Jan/Feb 2009

78 A DISTINCTIVE STYLE ~ Jan/Feb 2009

Jan/Feb 2009 ~ ADISTINCTIVESTYLE 79

THE WHITE ROAD AND OTHER STORIES BY TANIA HERSHMAN

Jan/Feb 2009 ~ ADISTINCTIVESTYLE 83

Exotica from TropiCouture

GREEN PAWS™ is the first “All Green

94 A DISTINCTIVE STYLE ~ Jan/Feb 2009

CONTOUR BED FOR THE PET NEEDING LUXURY

n” pet care line. We are Green from our formulas to

Jan/Feb 2009 ~ ADISTINCTIVESTYLE 95

A DISTINCTIVE STYLE MAGAZINE

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