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Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Beauty of a Sister ...

The Beauty of a Sister ...

Ciao bella,

This is an unusual Beauty column for the type of Beauty that existed in my lifetime.

My sister Cheryl was born on a lovely summer day in June. She was two and a half years younger than I, as I was born in ’54 on Christmas Day. She was a Beautiful child. I was thrilled to have my very own "living" doll at the time of her birth. Her Beauty and facial features were porcelain-like. Her fi gure was slender and lovely.

After having me, Mom and Dad experienced my behavior and ability to learn. As Cheryl reached different stages in her growth, Mom and Dad knew something was wrong with her progress. After many different kinds of doctor’s exams, she was diagnosed at three years of age with mental and mobility challenges. It was a devastating heartbreak for my parents. My Nana and Nano DiZazzo helped in her care; however, it just wasn’t enough. Just to keep her safe and keep as normal a household as possible, she was institutionalized. She was placed there with the help of the Kennedy Family. We shall always be grateful.

Mom and Dad bought a few trailers through the years and, on the weekends, we would visit all different kinds of Swim and Recreation Parks around the area of my sister’s new home. Mom made us the best homecooked meals out of the trailer and we had picnics galore. I always thought how lucky I was to travel around Massachusetts at such a young age.

Cheryl was always fun, laughing and enjoying herself with us. I was just so lucky to have a sister! She loved her Rocking Horse and went through several of them. She also adored new clothes and her caretakers would indulge her habit!

About three decades ago, Cheryl was placed in a private home with her own bedroom. Mom was thrilled with this. She had 24-hour excellent care and a housemate or two through the years.

My husband David and I enjoyed entertaining her here at our apartment in Boston and at our Cabana in Charles River Park (which she would call "the cook-out.") She was just here celebrating Christmas with her wonderful caregivers -- Jennifer, who was like our third sister, and the others who went far beyond the duties of their job! How fortunate we all were. I made my famous Sausage Bolognese. For dessert, I ordered delivery from Modern Pastry here in Boston's North End, Lobster Tail and Cannoli. Cheryl ate with relish and devoured her Italian Delicacies. After all, when Cheryl came to visit it was a time for laughter, music, chair dancing and celebration. She certainly took after Dad for his love of music. Her fav song was "Happy" by Pharrell Williams! And let’s not forget "Puff the Magic Dragon!"

It would be our last Christmas.

Cheryl passed away quietly in her sleep, just like Dad, on January 20th.

She is now with Mom and Dad and her beloved grandparents. I shall keep the good memories deep in my heart. She is always with me, as we were part of each other. God bless and rest well, dear sister, until we meet again.

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Saturday, January 13, 2018

Conair

Conair

Ciao bella,

My first hair appliance was made by Conair. In my years as a professional cosmetologist, I’ve come to own electric hair curlers, blow dryers and curling irons ... all by Conair, an innovative company that developed quality tools for the consumer and professional.

So, it is with great sadness to announce the passing of Leandro Rizzuto, co-founder of Conair, this past December. He was a man who deeply loved people and his company.

As a great leader, teacher, and mentor, he always encouraged the people around him to do better and to do greater things than they thought they could do.

Leandro's father Julian founded the business in 1959 as Continental Hair Products, Inc. Julian invented the "machine-less perm wave," which was a chemical process that replaced electric curlers for a while. After a fire on the premises of his salon (which was underinsured) in New York City, he was left to restart his business with an improved, fast-drying hair roller he had invented. Lee sold his Cadillac to pave the way to success in just a few years. His company invented curling irons, blow dryers (pistol whip style), hot combs and, in 1973, acquired Ethical Personal Hair Products, Ltd., then becoming Conair Corp. He also acquired the liquid end of the business, selling Jheri Redding products, including shampoos, conditioners, and other hair care products.

Leandro took over the once floundering business and built this amazing empire. Today, Conair has become a leading manufacturer of nationally branded personal and healthcare appliances as well as kitchen appliances.

Leandro will be truly missed; however, his legacy lives on in our everyday lives!

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.