From the exquisite artwork that adorns the walls of the offices of Sharon McDaniel Lowe, Ph.D., founder of A Second Chance, Inc., there is an attitude of compassion, commitment and professionalism. Those attributes of the president and CEO, as well as her dedicated employees, are the basis of a genuine passion that has catapulted the non-profit entity into a most successful venture.

SHARON McDANIEL LOWE

The only known organization in the country that exclusively provides “kinship care,” Lowe proudly states that the origin of the name hails from African roots. The American Heritage Dictionary describes kinship care as “family relationship…connection by blood, marriage or adoption.” But for Lowe, the description goes far beyond that entry. Her definition includes a combination of historical significance and a deeply-rooted compassion for the young.

What happened to truth in advertising?

I’m a magazine and newspaper junkie and I tend to look at the ads closely because I want to see what’s new, what is hip, what I can buy. In a recent fashion magazine, there was an ad for mascara. It was blatantly obvious that the model was wearing false eyelashes. You could almost smell the glue coming off the page. My hair stylist and I cracked up when we saw it. Was the public supposed to believe that after using this brand of mascara that your eyelashes would look this long, thick and luxurious?

Summer celebration

JUNE 16—Parish of the Word of God, 7446 McClure Ave., Swissvale, will host a Summer Celebration at 6 p.m. at the Word of God School, 7436 McClure Ave., Swissvale. Each evening there will be a flea market, food, bingo and more. There will also be a raffle. The celebration will run through June 19 and is open to the public. For more information, call 412-241-1372.

Just when you think there is nowhere new to shop, Toni Phinisee and Elizabeth Sanford, (fashion chairpersons) located fresh new places to find great looks.

On May 1 at Homewood AMEZ Church, the Women’s Day Committee sponsored their fashion and hat show luncheon, “Fashion Walks and Talks.”

THREE OF A KIND—The same outfit in three colors. Take your pick.

Inspired by You (Greensburg, Pa.) specializes in designer women’s clothes and accessories and brought Greensburg to Pittsburgh with unique fashions by Clara S., Angel, Alberto Malki, Valentino, Frank Layman and Jillanova. It was clear to see that many ladies will be taking a short trip to Greensburg to check out the fashions.