Soul Sunday: What's Your Legacy?

I was inspired to write this blog by the former producer/Co-Creator of the Simpsons. As interesting and as random as it sounds today he is my HERO. His name is Sam Simon and his legacy is GIVING.

I, as millions of others have the Internet as my primary source of news. The other day I came across an article in the UK DailyMail about Simon giving away his fortune. I have been reading it on-line from various media sources and am HAPPY to finally be reading a positive and inspirational story.

The article talked about his passion for protecting and caring for animals as well as feeding the homeless.  He expressed in a recent interview with the Hollywood Reporter "'The truth is, I have more money than I'm interested in spending. Everyone in my family is taken care of. And I enjoy this." 

He was recently diagnosed with terminal colon cancer and was told by doctors he had 3-6 months to live. I'm sure this was a sobering thought to him but based on his actions, an inspirational one too. He is contributing his 'Simpsons Royalties', tens of millions of dollars annually it has been reported, to causes that produce an instant result or reward for those who are the recipients. He is re-investing his fortune in humanity and to limit the suffering of animals. 

Mr. Simon and the Sam Simon Foundation is responsible for what includes but is not limited to the following:

* Turning his Malibu Mansion into a dog rescue shelter for strays that standard shelters would otherwise put to death. They are cared for and trained to be companions for the deaf through the 'Hearing Dog Program'

*Purchasing zoos and travelling circuses to save the animals. He told the reporter "I just wanted to have some days where I get to see animals walk in grass for the first time. Through PETA, we rescue animals in roadside zoos and circuses. They are some of the most abused animals in the country. Freeing those animals, that's something I'm not sure I would do if it weren't for the cancer." 

*Feeding the homeless or families in need with cruelty free, healthy Vegan food. I have read that his place services and feeds over 200 families a day via Tom Bradley Family Source Center, 5213 W. Pico Blvd. , Los Angeles 90019. 

*Service dogs for Veterans. This foundation provides companion animals to veterans suffering emotional and/or physical injury as a result of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts.

* Pet visitations. Taking animals into visit people in assisted living facilities, thus providing health and well being benefits to the recipients.

*Mobile surgery clinics for animals This service provides FREE surgeries for animals. 

The motto: "Saving the lives of dogs, to enrich the lives of people"

He was asked what change in the world he would like to see by the Hollywood Reporter and he replied, 

"I want medical experiments on animals stopped. They don't do anything, and they don't work. Veganism is an answer for almost every problem facing the world in terms of hunger and climate change. It helps people's health. Meat is the biggest greenhouse gas producer. There's also the cruelty and suffering aspect. When people do meatless Mondays, and when people adopt instead of buying a dog, that's a PETA victory."

The three people he mentioned to be an inspiration to him are Capt. Paul Watson of the Sea Shepherd (who now has a boat named after Sam Simon)

Ingrid Newkirk of PETA

Sam cuts the ribbon for the New PETA Headquarters, now maned the Sam Simon Center

and Charles MacCormack of Save the Children

Former CEO of Save the Children in Ethiopia

Reading about Sam's generosity, besides feeling like he is my new HERO, it made me think a lot about the legacy I would leave behind. Not a legacy of fame or fortune but of service or example. None of us need millions like Sam to help, give or make an impact. I am however inspired and impressed with someone who has the resources to accomplish such good and who actually goes out and DOES IT. Giving of your time or resources no matter how big or small does make an impact. What if it only helped one person or animal? wouldn't it be worth it? 

My legacy? Time is the most precious commodity available to us all. Taking time out of your life to enrich the lives of others is one part of the legacy that I will leave behind. I hope it inspires my children to do the same. I want to empower and inspire women all around the world through fashion, there is an investor out there to make my vision a reality, I will just keep moving forward and working with women one-on-one to build self esteem through personal style until I am able to reach them globally. I also want to make an impact in the Down Syndrome community as my son has blessed my life in more ways than I can possible articulate. My children are my greatest legacy of all. Spending time with them and teaching them the compassion and respect for the planet and animals (we ALL have Plant Based diets) and people. Sharing with them the virtues of hard work, service without reward, honesty and persistence. Most of all inspiring them to follow their dreams no matter when it may lead them, they need to fight for what they would like to accomplish in their lifetime, essentially their legacy.

I must also make clear that I'm not counting Sam out yet either. I would assume based on all the fighting he does on behalf of others and voiceless animals he has a hell of a lot of fight in him too. May he find healing and peace in what I hope is a very long life ahead. The world could use more people like him.

What would you like your legacy to be?

 

Leave your comments below!

Style Maven Series: Joanna Krupa

Joanna Krupa is a Model Maven who's heart is as big as her talent and beauty.  She is an Animal Activist, Actress, Model, International Sex Symbol and Reality Star. 

She has appeared on countless covers of international magazines, on both big and small screen and is an outspoken advocate for animals and NOT wearing FUR!

She has publicly voiced her disdain for the Kardashian's promotion, wearing and sales of FUR via their DASH stores.

I LOVE that Joanna uses her public platform to help the plight of animals who cannot speak for themselves. 

  She gave me her take on how we can help animals "Stop buying fur and educate people on how animals get skinned alive for their fur. There is no reason to put animals through so much pain for fashion. Stop buying products that are tested on animals, don't support horse racing, only eat cruelty free meat if u have to eat it but its not healthy even if u are not an animal lover. Adopt don't buy. If u see someone on the street abusing their pet call an authority and have the pet taken away from them." 

Joanna, being born in Warsaw, Poland was a perfect host/judge for the show "Poland's Next Top Model". She also danced her way across the Screen in 2009 with partner Derek Hough on"Dancing With The Stars" 

She has recently joined the cast of the BRAVO reality show"The Real Housewives of Miami" 

She has a busy schedule and splits her time between LA and Miami but took the time to answer my Style Maven Questions

LG: Can you describe your personal Style aesthetic AND attitude about fashion?

JK: Wear what looks good not what the price tag says . I am a jean s and dress girl...I don't have a specific style but I love to find bargains and not over pay on designer clothes as I ll wear it once and then its a waste of money. I like to buy clothes that I can have for years and I focus on buying expensive shoes and handbags cause those accessories can last forever.

LG: What are the key components / pieces in your closet?

JK: Shoes and handbags 

LG:  How do you feel about Vintage Clothing and Accessories?

JK: I have never bought any but stylists have used pieces on me for shoots and I loved them. As long as it is not fur.

LG: What are you wearing this Summer? What will be the the key elements for your Fall 2012 wardrobe?

JK: This summer a bunch of summer dresses because you can wear them casual with flip flops or dress them up with jewelry and heels and they are so comfy.

LG: If you could give women 1 piece of STYLE advice, what would it be?

JK: Always wear heels with a dress because heels will make your legs look good. Flats are not flattering if u wanna impress someone :)

They are made for comfort only.

Here's a look at Joanna's STYLE

(Click on collage to Enlarge)

CONNECT with Joanna
Official Website
Twitter
Facebook

EVOLUTION VINTAGE PICKS FOR JOANNA

 Vintage 1960's Emma Domb Gown (Mini) 

Evolution Rewind Vintage Aurora Borealis Cocktail Ring

 Vintage 100% Silk and Sequin Mini Dress

 Vintage 90's Richard Tyler Silk Blazer

 Vintage YSL Skirt

NWT Jovovich-Hawk "Vivian" Summer Dress (C. 2006)

Exploring Carnism

I have been a Vegetarian for almost 5 years and soon to be a full VEGAN and I find myself over and over again defending or justifying my choice to not consume meat to friends, family and strangers. Today I had a carnivorous friend tell me that she took the time to watch "Meet your Meat", "If Slaughterhouses Had Glass Walls" (Narrated by Paul McCartney) and "Meat is Not Green". She is now questioning her meat eating and never realized or made the connection that what was on her plate is brutally treated and then slaughtered for "her taste buds".

Many meat eaters sit at home and chow down on a steak while they pet their cats, or spend hundreds of dollars a month on their dogs (food, grooming, etc) and eat chicken. I was once that person and now feel ashamed and a little daft that I did not make the connection.

I wanted to share an interesting theory as to why/how we as humans can make that disconnect (besides rationalizing unhealthy behaviour). Melanie Joy (PhD) explains "Carnism" in this short video clip.

It is the psychological phenomenon behind why people eat certain animals and not others.

Check out Dr. Joy's Book "Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows" if you want to explore the subject in greater depth.

Compassionate Recycling

Cindy Crawford for PETA

I was having an on-line discussion this morning with a group of ladies who sell Vintage clothing and accessories about FUR and it reminded me of my previous BLOG: Wear Your Own Skin

The consensus in the group seemed to be that if the fur is Vintage one should use it rather than waste it. Some sell it and some do not. I do not sell fur at EVOLUTION VINTAGE but I totally agree about the non-waste element. I would never wear it so what can you do with your fur? There are several places and organizations that will compassionately recycle your vintage (and non-vintage) fur coats, stoles and accessories.

PETA SAYS: “Whether the animals were killed yesterday or 50 years ago, vintage fur sends the same unacceptable message as new fur—that it is OK to allow animals to languish in steel-jaw traps, have their necks snapped, or be skinned alive simply for the sake of vanity.”

Donate & Re-Cycle your old or new fur for education, helping the homeless AND helping other animals. Not only is it a compassionate choice but you will receive a tax credit. I think PETA's point with the homeless is that one would need to be destitute with no options and use the fur to keep warm and essentially stay alive. I don't think they are making an exception to those that are without homes. Some of PETA's methods are unorthodox but no matter what your opinion, they DO help animals and provide a voice for them they would not otherwise have!

PETA uses furs for education displays, to warm the homeless AND for Women/Children in Afghanistan & Iraq - Click HERE for more information on their program(s).

How To Donate?

Mail your unwanted furs to:

Attn.: Fur Campaign
PETA
501 Front St.
Norfolk, VA 23510


The Humane Society of the United States has a "Coats for Cubs" program. All of the furs received by The HSUS are sent to wildlife rehabilitators, who use the furs to warm and comfort orphaned and injured wildlife.

HOW DOES IT HELP THE ANIMALS?

"According to the HSUS "More than 200 rehabilitators from across the United States and Canada now participate in the program. The furs are cut into an appropriate size for the animal, whether it be a bobcat, fox, raccoon, squirrel, or rabbit, and placed inside the animal's enclosure. The furry blanket becomes a surrogate mother to orphaned animals, reducing stress and giving comfort."

How To Donate:

Place your fur in a sturdy box (a large padded envelope is fine for small items) and mail it to The HSUS at the following address:

The Humane Society of the United States
2100 L St., NW
Washington, D.C. 20037
Attn: Coats for Cubs

Jessica Stam for FENDI - F/W 2010

In my opinion wearing real fur is WEAK and NOT CHIC! and it is my sincere hope that fashion houses realize it, like FENDI who's brand has literally been built using the backs of animals. With all the faux fur alternatives and textiles there is now NO excuse for wearing real fur or for designers to use real fur in their designs.

Imagine a world like this??? I bet the animals can.

Style Yourself Compasionately Chic this Fall/Winter in a FAUX-FUR Vintage Bomber Jacket, Caplet Coat/Cape or 3/4 length Coat from EVOLUTION VINTAGE

WOMEN: Who Inspires You?

In honor of International Women's Day I was thinking about women and how we all serve to inspire one another. Today I honor Women: the survivors, the contributors, the trail blazers and risk takers, entrepreneurs, mothers, creative thinkers and the bold women who never take NO for an answer! I hope today serves as a motivation to many to make their mark in the world, by creating something, helping someone, or just making a contribution of some kind to society or even your own home! XO Make it happen sisters: The time is NOW.

I wanted to take a moment and honor a few women who have inspired me personally, to various degrees and for various reasons.

Mexican Painter FRIDA KAHLO ~ Frida lived her life on her own terms and through her physical suffering and personal torment she was able to produce some of the most intriguing art of our time. She was a passionate woman who's perseverance has been very inspirational to me.

Singer/Songwriter - Entrepreneur: ANI DIFRANCO ~ Ani started with a guitar and a dream. After being cast aside by al the "powerful" mainstream record labels she started her own (Righteous Babe Records: http://www.righteousbabe.com/ )
After becoming a success on her own she gave the large record labels the middle finger (because of course they came knocking when they saw her profitability and talent). She has recorded 26 albums and released 12 official bootleg Cd's of her LIVE shows. I read somewhere she performs over 180 live shows a year. She is a mother and has fostered unique artists under her record label who often join her on her tours. I appreciate Ani's honesty in her lyrics and her eccentric approach to making music.

The Mother of all Model turned Moguls; Entrepreneur, ~ Kimora Lee Simmons Hounsou
Kimora overcame her humble beginnings and racial ridicule to become one of the most recognized faces in the Fashion business. She was a trail blazer in women's Hip-Hop fashion and build the Baby Phat brand starting with a single t-shirt in a Phat Farm fashion show of her then husband Russell Simmons. She then built an empire of fashion, fragrance, books, accessories and now has started her evolution into skin care and re-invention of the KLS brand (http://kls.com/). She has accomplished this while being a mother of three and wife. What I love the most about Kimora is her no-BS approach to business and life, her message and sincere belief in female empowerment and unity. She dontates her time and resources to several causes that help a great deal of women and children like "Make a Wish Foundation" (www.wish.org) and "Dress for Success" program for women (www.dressforsuccess.org),

Singer/Songwriter ~ P!NK (Alecia Moore) She overcame her past to create an amazing musical future. She is a no-nonsense, straight talking, real deal woman. A breath of fresh air in the homogenized, generic, plastic institution we call the music industry. I love her honesty via her lyrics and her compassion when it comes to the love of animals, being vegetarian and her work with PETA.

Artist/Activist ~ Yoko Ono
Her unwavering quest for PEACE and UNITY in this world and carrying on the dreams that she and John started in the late 1960's is nothing short of amazing XO

Animal Activist ~ INGRID NEWKIRK Her tireless work on behalf of the millions of voiceless animals is astonishing. Although their methods are controversial PETA - People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, she gets the job done!


Comedian, Animal Activist, Talk Show Host - Ellen DeGeneres. Ellen inspires me for living her life on her own terms. She is forever seeing the positive side of life as I'm sure she could laugh her way through anything. She is funny, witty and kind. The way she uses her influence and resources to help others always brings me to tears when I see her generosity through her show. She uses her show as a platform to address important issues (EX: animal rights, non-violence) and gives people a chance by having them on her show. She really knows how important it is to give people a chance at a break or a new start. She is a lover of animals and is vegan; her compassion is infectious.

Fashion Designer ~ Gabrielle Co Co Chanel She was a pioneer in womens fashions with designs and visions WAY ahead of her time. She forged her own path in the industry starting with a line of hats. she has paved the way for many creative female designers and created a fashion signature (The Chanel Suit) that is still relevant and CHIC today!

Media Mogul ~ OPRAH WINFREY ~ Although at times I don't share the same views as Oprah is there is no denying the level of success she has attained out of utter poverty. She left a traumatic childhood behind to become one of world most successful women. She has helped hundreds of thousands of people along the way through her philanthropy, her Angels network and though various other avenues. Her story and success reinforces my belief that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.



There are SO MANY others that inspire me I could never possibly contain them all in this blog. MOTHER'S around the world no matter what their circumstances are a huge inspiration. It is most difficult and rewarding experience and/or role. My vintage hat off to anyone with children, children with special needs, step-children or adoptive children. In the wise words of Oprah; "Biology is the least of what makes someone a mother". It is love, hard work, selflessness, dedication and perseverance that does. Many women this minute are battling illnesses and disease, losing job's, reinventing themselves, being abused by a loved one, trying to feed their children, enjoying success, getting educated, serving others and making a difference. I am inspired by all of these women all around the world. The women who lead by example and actions, who try to stay positive and forge onward in the face of adversity and negativity, who view NO as a motivational word instead of a detrimental one. It is a great day for reflection on what women have endured and accomplished, how far we have come and how far we still can go.

Be PROUD today of all you have endured and accomplished. You HAVE grown from where you were to where you are and there is still time and room to do so!

Today we also celebrate each other’s achievements, strengths & passions! We should stand together united and assist each other in making our dreams a reality ... We've come a long way baby! but there are still many suppressed and impoverished women around the world! XO EMPOWER & INSPIRE each other this and every day XO

WHO INSPIRES YOU? AND WHY? PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT!

Style Maven Series: Simone Reyes

Many of you may not know this Maven but let me introduce Simone Reyes. Hip-Hop mogul Russell Simmons RIGHT hand (assistant), an unequivocal supporter and protector of animal's rights, vegan, burlesque dancer and pole dancing/fitness aficionado.

She starred on the 2010 debut of the Oxygen reality show "Running Russell Simmons" that chronicles the day-to-day grind of Russell Simmons and his fierce femme support team, that organize and facilitate Russell's busy life. Simone and Christina being the top two girls who are the closest to Russell and handle all dealings from business to personal for the extremely busy entrepreneur, entertainment and fashion mogul, philanthropist, and yogi.



Running Russell Simmons (Trailer):




What truly inspires me about Simone is her COMPASSION and PASSION for animals and their rights. She is a Vegan and a hard core supporter of PETA, Mercy for Animals, Farm Sanctuary and Animal Acres. She speaks for those who do not have a voice in our society, the millions of defenceless animals slaughtered each day so society can keep the status quo on their plates. In the wise words of Sir Paul McCartney; “If slaughterhouses had glass walls, everyone would be a vegetarian.” Think about that concept for a moment. People would have to really consider where their food comes from.

Many people also do not realize that their choice to eat meat is not only cruel but they are contributing to an entity that is the LARGEST contributor the destruction our planet - Factory Farms! Did you know that a Factory Farm creates more pollution and greenhouse gas emissions than ALL the cars, trucks, vans, planes, trains and ships in the world COMBINED! This is according to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).



I was particularly impressed by her efforts in NY times Square making a statement along side PETA (WATCH THE VIDEO)







Her quest for equality for all; men, women and animals extended to her participation in the NOH8 Campaign.
Lend your face & voice: www.noh8campaign.com

She stays fit and sexy through her pole dancing and fitness.



Simone On Pole Dancing: "I always feel it's my job to introduce women to pole dancing because I have personally gotten so much out of it. Sure, it's a hot badge of honor, a cool notch on your belt to be able to hang upside down on a pole, but the benefits go much deeper. Pole dancing takes me back to a very primitive, organic part of myself physically and emotionally. It frees me. And yes, it's HOT."
My sister owns a business called "RockNPole" (www.rocknpole.ca) which encompasses personalized fitness programs, customized pole fitness with a fun "girls night in" component of pole parties at your home. Get the girls together and ROCK the POLE! I wish more women knew of the benefits of pole fitness and dance. Spread the word Simone!!

She also has spread her creative wings into the area of burlesque dance.







Simone has a hippy-chic sense of style mixing boho with rock-n-roll and sequins; the combination of flashy & earthy! I LOVE her accessories; headbands, hats and Vintage bags. Of course all her fashion choices are 'animal friendly' too -She wears no furs, animal skins, leather or otherwise. If it ain't Vegan she's not buying.

I had a chance to ask Simone my Style Maven Questions:

LISA: Can you describe your personal Style aesthetic AND attitude about fashion?

SIMONE: My personal style is Cherie Currie meets Sharon Tate..70's glam rocker/ 60's flowerchild

LISA: What are the key components / pieces in your closet?

SIMONE: I love bell bottom jeans, platform shoes and dresses with sequins. I love anything shiny, like a bird.

LISA: How do you feel about Vintage Clothing and Accessories?

SIMONE: I am a vintage girl at heart..its boring for me to shop at a mall and I never follow trends. However, put me in a vintage store and I feel my heart begin to swell. The hunt is the most thrilling part.

LISA: What are your favorite Vintage pieces (Clothing and/or Accessories)? Do you only wear designer vintage?

SIMONE: I don't limit my wardrobe to only vintage but it's my go-to favorite look. My favorite pieces are a few 70's jumpsuits that I embellished with some retro patches and studs to rocker them up a bit. I have some delicate lace shawls that remind me of my idol, Stevie Nicks and some amazing 60's minidresses that I adore.

LISA: What are you wearing this Spring? Tell our readers the key elements for your Spring 2011 wardrobe

SIMONE: I love capes so I am going to be wearing those as the NY weather goes from chilly to breezy.

LISA: If you could give women 1 piece of STYLE advice, what would it be?

SIMONE: My style advice is to choose their wardrobe from the heart..come from a place of non-violence which means DON'T wear fur, leather, feathers, silk, wool or suede. I remember meeting with a stylist on the first season of filming "Running Russell Simmons" and the look on her face when I told her I'm a vegan and we don't wear any animal products. She had the look of "WHAT am I going to pull for her?!?!". Then, as she got to see all my pieces from my closet she understood that you don't need to be cruel to look cool. Compassion is the Fashion.










Evolution Vintage's Picks for Simone:


Vintage Silver & Black Sequin Top


Designer Re-Sale: Jovovich-Hawk Dress


Late 40's Vintage Whiting & David Metal Mesh Clutch


White Evolution Vintage T-shirt ~ vintage Style Burn out shirt - VERY ROCK N ROLL!

SHOP: www.evolution-vintage.com