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!

It's in the bag: Mock Croc

As I have evolved and grown I have moved away from consuming meat and animal products and also wearing them. I am happy to see the progression with technology in textiles that the faux furs and imitation skins look so amazing. I fell in LOVE recently with an amazing Mock Croc bag from JUSTFAB.com

The "Visionary" in GREY (Stay tuned for an upcoming blog post regarding Grey as the new black for me)

BUY IT: Price $69 - for VIP MEMBERS ONLY $39.95!

Check out all the MEMBER ADVANTAGES HERE

BAG 411:

Size: 16" LX 11.5" H X 6" W

Avail: In Black & Purple

Quality: Fabulous

Style: Can be styled in a variety of ways for day or night.

Liner: A very stylish print.

Extras: Comes with large strap to carry side or cross body! and the padlock accent gives it an affordable Hermes-esque feel.

I am impressed by the quality of this bag and LOVE it in the grey. It is compassionate chic made with man made materials!

 I will photograph how I style and wear it over the coming weeks and share it!  It is my FAV go to bag of the moment and since it has arrived I have used it every day!

Try a Vintage Mock Croc purse  from the 1980's in a bold RED

(It also has an amazing built in wallet!)

BUY: $28

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

Wear your own skin

Faux Fur is a topic that I feel is very important in fashion. Many designers and brands have opted to utilize this synthetic fabric as opposed to causing unnecessary harm to defenceless animals - BRAVO! I think killing and removing another living creatures skin to wear it is the LEAST luxurious thing you can do. It does not exude status or style it shows me a lack of character and compassion. It is not CHIC it is WEAK.

Let's talk about the wonder that is faux fur shall we.

FAUX FUR FACS: Fake fur is a type of textile fabric fashioned to look like genuine animal fur. It is known as a pile fabric and is typically made from polymeric fibers that are processed, dyed, and cut to match a specific fur texture and color. First introduced in 1929, advances in polymer technology have greatly improved faux fur quality. Today's fake furs can be nearly indistinguishable from the natural furs they imitate.

In the 1940s, the quality of fake furs was vastly improved by advances in textile manufacture technology. However, the true modern fake furs were not developed until the mid 1950s, with the introduction of acrylic polymers as replacements for alpaca hair. These polymers were particularly important because they could provide the bulk required to imitate real fur without the weight associated with other fake fur fabrics. They were also easier to color and texture than alpaca fibers.


What does Tim Gunn & PETA Say? do YOU know where fur comes from? really?







I was pleasantly surprised to learn that even Karl Lagerfeld, for CHANEL has changed his perspective on fur for F/W 2010 collection: “Technical advances are so perfect you can hardly tell fake fur from the real thing. Fake is not chic — we have got a new Chanel tweed to stop copies — but fake fur is.”


FAUX

FAUX


FAUX

He still needs to change his "Fendi" attitude as he will continue to show real fur in his collections for the house.

Other FUR-FREE designers/Retailers include (but are not limited to the following): Betsey Johnson, Stella McCartney, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Top shop, Polo Ralph Lauren, Old Navy/Gap/Piperlime/Bananna Republic, Liz Claiborne, Inc.(incl. 15 brands), H&M, Guess? Inc., BCBG Max Azria ...and MANY others. My Faux Fur hat off to all of you! for being Compassionate & Creative!

List of Friendly & Fabulous Designers

Designers duty to fashion and clients is to be CREATIVE. With the thousands of other textile choices why choose cruelty or murder? real fur is FAUX-Fabulous ~ Wear your own skin!


SHOP FAUX FUR @ EVOLUTION VINTAGE



Beige VINTAGE FAUX Fur Capelet Jacket/Cape. Floral pattern on silk liner. "Glenoit" label (A Luxuriant Pile Fabric) - No Size. Open Concept. Front Arm slits. Excellent condition with the exception of an "H" written on the liner in black marker (inside @ neckine) - I wonder who Mrs/Miss "H" was?

Vintage Saks Fifth Ave Faux Fur Bomber Jacket