BEHIND THE SCENES OF Coming of Age photos BY jeffrey w. boudreau Arlene Thompson (Cosmetology Department Head) and Rebecca Peters with Colin Braese. Our "Coming of Age" fashion shoot showcases fashions for those formal moments in life when children play a different kind of dress-up. In some cultures the transition to adult is celebrated in a very formal way. For many others there are Sweet 16 parties and proms that mark the change less specifically, but with no less fun. These themes were on display behind the camera as well on a day in January when an impressive array of talent, both young and less young, gathered from all over the Bay State. Our models, courtesy of John Robert Powers, hail from Hyannis, North Andover, Fall River, Bristol, Uxbridge, Rehoboth, Yarmouth, Andover, Waltham and Somersworth, N.H. The work of these young professionals was a fitting example of the spread's theme. Off camera, and in-between shutter clicks, they were engaging, inquisitive kids. But they also proved without exception that kids can be both playful and professional. They can "step up" and get serious or focused when they need to, all the while never losing that youthful spark or charm. All of us at Bay State Parent were truly impressed by these kids - these models - and expect we'll be seeing big things from many of them. Anisa Sulstarova (make-up) This theme of passage was further evidenced by the cosmetology students at Worcester Tech who marvelously handled all of the hair and makeup for our shoot. The blurry line between child and adult was no clearer than the doorway from the halls of the school into the cosmetology department. Here "professional" hair and makeup stylists worked with our vision and nailed the looks we were seeking. Again, our thanks and salute to these terrific students, who too appear to be well on their way to successful careers. The adult professionals involved with our shoot boast their own impressive resumes and their interaction with the young people was another highlight. Our photographer, Steven King of Barre, was named 2006 New England Press Association (NEPA) Photographer of the Year. He's the father of two boys. Christina Sanchez (left) and Katelyn Baillargeon (right) with Sophia Gilberto Art Director Paula Monette Ethier of Millbury also has two boys, and just last month won a first place graphic design award from NEPA. Graphic Artist Stephanie Renaud of Leominster also won a first place award from NEPA last month. Our stylist, Alisa Neely of Needham, has two girls. She was named Best Personal Shopper by Boston Magazine in their most recent Best of Boston awards, and was also featured in the February issue of Lola magazine. Bay State Parent shines again this month thanks to the talent and hard work of these and so many others. Enjoy. Gareth Charter, Publisher Leah Ridlon (left) and Sasha Boykin (right) with Hans Bardenheuer Glennys Rosado with Mike Graceffa Akemma Burno with Paula Reis Anisa Sulstarova applies make-up to Brooke Bibeault Vivian Garcia (manicure) Brianna Staton (manicure) Bay State Parent's Mark Steina adjusting Colin Braese's tie. Alissa Neely, Bay State Parent's fashion coordinator adjusting John Robert Power's model, Mike Graceffa's sleeve. Flowers provided by KaBloom of Shrewsbury. Worcester Technical High School "Bistro," Open to the public 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Serving coffe, salads and a variety of sandwiches. Mothers of "Models" wih W.T.H.S. bakery student serving Gloria Lehner. Bay State Parent photographer Steven King capturing John Rober Power's models at Channel 11 Studio, Worcester Technical High School.