Designing Home Lifestyles by IN Community Magazines

AT HOME WITH: PITTSBURGH FILM OFFICE

YOUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Winter 2011 Complimentary

PITTSBURGH

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PUBLISHER/EDITOR Tom Poljak CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tom Abraham Nancy Hoff Barsotti Valentine J. Brkich Pamela Palongue Steve Stones David Plantowski ART & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Jim Paladino ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Renee Butor ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS Derek Bayer Tamara Myers ADVERTISING SALES Aimee Nicolia Brian Daley Robert Ojeda Gina D’Alicandro Ralph Palaski Tina Dollard Annette Petrone Karen Fadzen Vincent Sabatini Julie Graff Jennifer Schaefer Jason Huffman Michael Silvert Lori Jeffries Karen Turkovich Connie McDaniel RJ Vighetti Brian McKee Nikki Capezio-Watson Gabriel Negri Sophia Williard E-MAIL info@DesigningHomeLifestyles.com Black Bear Publishing 5107 Clairton Boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15236 (412) 819-5152 Fax: (412) 819-5153 Designing HOME Lifestyles is Owned and Operated by IN Community Publications

Owner – Wayne Dollard Office Manager – Leo Vighetti Member of:

Designing HOME Lifestyles. Copyright 2011. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any photographs, artwork, or copy prepared by Designing HOME Lifestyles is strictly prohibited without written consent of the Publisher. Designing HOME Lifestyles is a free publication and is published four times a year (Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter) and is distributed by direct mail. This magazine contains certain advertorials and first person advertisement articles which are the sole responsibility of the advertisers, and not Designing HOME Lifestyles and the Publisher. The views and representations expressed in the advertorials contained herein express the views and representations of the respective advertisers and are not those of the Publisher or Designing HOME Lifestyles and are indicated by this symbol at the end of their advertisement. Neither the advertisers, publisher, Designing HOME Lifestyles or In Community Magazines and Media will be responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, omissions, or rate change information.

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Contents Winter Issue 2011

contents YOUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Here at Designing HOME Lifestyles magazine, we love providing you with ideas on how to maintain your home and make it more beautiful. But what’s more important to us is your family’s health and well-being. That’s why we’re introducing this new ongoing feature that will focus on topics from exercise to nutrition to detoxing your home. We hope that you’ll be able to use the information we provide to increase your family’s overall wellness and, in turn, live a fuller, healthier, happier life.

STAYING HEALTHY WITH AN INDOOR HERB GARDEN

Winter is a challenging time for garden topics in western Pennsylvania. You may not know it, but herbs and spices are a great source of antioxidants. Many scientists have released studies recently that include both fresh and dried herbs as a wonderful source for helping to fight those nasty, disease-causing free radicals.

THE BENEFITS OF A HOME GYM

Do you huff and puff excessively after climbing a flight of stairs? It may be time to join the growing number of Americans who exercise on a regular basis. Increasingly, evidence shows that exercise pays off, even for those who start a routine late in their lives. “But,” you say, “I just don’t have time, and health clubs are too expensive!” Why not hurdle those obstacles by bringing the gym home?

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA’S TOP CHEFS

In this issue, we’ve asked some of Pittsburgh’s top chefs to share some of their favorite recipes with us in order to help ring in the New Year. Each has incorporated unique flavors, from both local and from far away, so that you and your family will be able to enjoy some incredible and memorable meals during this special time of the year. As 2011 comes to a close, we are excited to see what our chefs have in store for you – our readers – this coming year.

Departments

departments

AT HOME WITH - Pittsburgh Film Office YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD LIFESTYLES - Saxonburg COCKTAILS AT HOME - Tea Infused Cocktails

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On The Cover: Patete Kitchen and Bath Design Center, located in Carnegie epitomizes the idea of a “family” business. Patete President Steve Erenrich operates the company along with his son Barry. One thing you can bank on is that they both understand the importance of the kind of personal attention and quality products you can only find at a local, family-owned business like Patete. See pages 10-14. DHL

Our website offers example photos and detailed information on the variety of wood grades, species, sizes, hand-scraped as well as cutting techniques available including our specialty â&#x20AC;&#x201C; rift & quartered red and white oak hardwoods. Learn too about our history of environmental stewardship before it had become politically correct to do so. Customers can now rely on our FSC certification as proof positive that we follow the sustainable practices set up by this internationally respected organization.

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Design Innovation, Performance and above all else, QUALITY. Aqua Pool, Inc. is a swimming pool company rich in history that takes great pride in maintaining a reputation for quality, innovation, service and design. By offering expert design solutions and innovative construction techniques, we are able to provide our customers with the highest quality custom built gunite pools and spas available anywhere. Each project is custom designed for your specific application; indoor; outdoor; residential; commercial; therapy or competition. The applications may change, but our commitment to building a state of the art, quality product while adhering to time-proven standards will not.

www.aquapoolinc.com

Call (412) 824-6900 DHL

cover story:

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PATETE KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN CENTER “Whether your taste is Traditional, Contemporary or Eclectic, Patete Kitchen & Bath Center will deliver a functional and attractive product you will be proud of.”

f you’re thinking about installing a new kitchen or bathroom, or maybe renovating your current one, it can be tempting to try to save a few bucks. But when you’re embarking on a project as important and involved as a new kitchen or bathroom, you can’t afford to leave anything to chance. You need to know that the materials you’re using are of the highest quality. You need to know that you can count on the installers to be there every step of the way, from start to finish, to make sure that your unique vision becomes a reality. You need to leave it to the real experts—the people who have been doing this kind of work for decades and, therefore, can honestly call themselves experts in the field. I’m talking, of course, about Patete Kitchen and Bath Design Center.

Patete Kitchen and Bath, located on Washington Avenue in Carnegie, epitomizes the idea of a “family” business. Patete President Steve Erenrich operates the company along with his son Barry. More than likely you’ve heard both Steve and Barry talk about Patete on the radio and on TV ads, and you may have even talked to them personally at their design showroom or at the annual home shows. One thing you can bank on is that they both understand the importance of the kind of personal attention and quality products you can only find at a local, family-owned business like Patete.

“I’m not some inaccessible, upper-level executive that hides away in his office,” says Steve. “I want to get to know you. I want you to feel comfortable with me, knowing that you can trust what I say and feel confident that, with Patete, you’re getting the best quality and service possible. I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Barry, a third generation Erenrich, along with having a hands-on part in the daily operations at Patete, manages their other company, Luxury Bath by Patete. “I love what I do,” says Barry. “There’s just something so satisfying about working closely with someone, listening to their ideas, and then coming up with a design that’s beautiful and unique to them. It’s something I’m really passionate about.” Thanks to Steve and Barry, Patete has become one of the most trusted and respected kitchen and bath design centers in the region. Through their dedication and passion for what they do, they make certain that each and every one of their customers is completely satisfied with their kitchen or bathroom project. Since 1960, Patete has evolved from a modest cabinet shop into the region’s leading kitchen and bath remodeling center. And they’ve done this through a commitment to family values, as well as by combining the highest-quality products with outstanding customer service. Patete’s staff of experts guide you through each and every phase of your Continued on next page DHL

“We’ll show you what’s possible, and then we’ll work closely with you to allow you to put your own personal touch on your design,” says Barry. “We have a lot of great ideas to share with you. But ultimately, we want to help you make your own unique vision a reality.” And of course, they continue to work with you until they make it a perfect fit for you and your lifestyle. “Our goal is your complete satisfaction,” says Barry. “And we’ll do whatever it takes to meet that goal and provide the kitchen or bath of your dreams.” project, from custom creation through expert installation. Their mission is to help you create the most functional and attractive kitchen or bath for your home. They do this by paying attention to details and taking care of every aspect of your job, from the cabinets and countertops, to the sinks, faucets, and hardware, to carpentry and tile work, to plumbing, electrical, painting and more. Patete believes in getting it right the first time, and the way they work closely with you throughout the entire process reflects this. First, their kitchen and bath designers come to your home and do a complete survey of your project including your wants, needs, and ultimate wish list. Then they return to their showroom and combine your specifications and your suggestions to design a “custom creation” of your project. Finally, they present this design to you when you come in for your appointment in their impressive showroom, which features many beautiful displays to inspire you and spark your imagination.

Patete has been doing high-quality bathroom renovations and installs for years. Now they’re proud to announce that they have added a new line to their impressive list of bathroom features: Shower Doors by Patete. “At Patete we take pride in offering our customers the highest quality of materials and features for their bathroom installs and remodels,” says Steve. “Now we’re happy to say that we’ve added this incredible line of shower doors and enclosures. These products are really unmatched in quality and design.” The Shower Doors by Patete collection features precision-engineered shower doors and enclosures made from highquality materials and finishes. The result is a product that maximizes performance and durability. In fact, every shower enclosure features lifetime warranty, which is the best product guarantee you’ll find in the industry. “These are the best shower doors in the marketplace,” says Barry. “And they’re all hand-crafted, so you know they’re made to last.” Continued on page 16

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One of the coolest features of Shower Doors by Patete is the new glass option, AquaGlideXP Clear, an enhanced version of the popular AquaGlide glass protection coating. AquaGlideXP Clear is an invisible coating that bonds to the glass and helps keep the shower doors clean by stopping them from spotting. It increases the sheen and luster, repels soap film, and minimizes mold and mildew. As a result, there’s less work for you. No matter how big or small your kitchen or bath design project, Steve Erenrich wants you to know that you can put your trust in Barry or any one of their other highly-skilled and approachable designers. “Like I’ve said before, we’re all family here at Patete,” says Steve. “Every one of our people are highly trained and qualified, and each is dedicated to treating you—the customer—with the utmost respect and consideration.” “We’re committed to you and your satisfaction,” adds Barry. “Give Patete a try—we know you’ll be satisfied.”

1105 Washington Avenue Carnegie, Pa. (412) 279-2222 or (800) 255-5099 www.PateteKitchens.com

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20273 Rt. 19 • Cranberry Township, PA 16066

(724) 772-3131 www.txpgh.com

Design Center Hours 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Mon – Saturday

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By Valentine J. Brkich

We hope that you’ll be able to use the information we provide to increase your family’s overall wellness and, in turn, live a fuller, healthier, happier life.

n this first installment, with the Holidays right around the corner, we thought we’d talk about something that’s become an unwelcome part of everyday life for so many of us: stress.

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In today’s fast-paced, multi-tasking world, stress is unavoidable. Not only are we working harder and longer, but we’re being asked to do more in less time.Additionally, technology like tablet computers and smartphones make it impossible for us to relax by making us accessible and accountable at all times. And it’s not only limited to the adults, either. Kids have more pressure on them nowadays trying to juggle schoolwork, multiple sports, and all the other activities that are available to them today. And let’s not forget the ever-present media, which is constantly bombarding us with wonderful news about the dire state of the environment, the economy, the unemployment rate, pollution, overpopulation, the threat of terrorism, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, deadly pandemics…the list goes on and on. It’s no wonder that stress levels are at an all-time high.

Stress is taxing enough on our mental state.What’s worse is its effects on our physical well-being.When you don’t do anything to combat and address stress, it can actually have major detrimental effects on your health. Stress can raise your blood pressure; it can weaken

your immune system; it can lead to depression, back pain, and heart disease. Obviously stress is nothing to sneeze at. Fortunately there are things you can do to keep stress at bay and prevent it from having a deleterious effect on your and your family’s health.

The first thing you need to do is identify all the things that are causing stress in your life. Maybe it’s your job. Maybe it’s the news you read on the Internet. Maybe it’s your kids. Then again, maybe it’s all of the above. The important thing is to identify the causes so that you can start working to address them accordingly. A lot of times stress leads to poor nutrition. With our hectic lifestyles, it’s easy to fall into the trap of eating fast food or simply not eating enough fruits and vegetables. Good nutrition must be a major priority for you and your family. When you don’t eat well, it can Continued on next page

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have immediate effects on your mood and, more important, long-term negative effects on your and your family’s health.

Fortunately good nutrition isn’t hard. It can be as simple as cutting out sugar and sodium and adding more whole grains, and colorful fruits and vegetables. Keep healthy snacks on-hand to keep you from reaching for the fries when you’re hungry.Also, cut your portion sizes and instead of eating three large meals every day have four or five smaller ones. When you do these things, you’ll look better, feel better, and protect yourself from major health issues down the road.

One of the easiest and more enjoyable ways to combat stress is to get more sleep. Many of us work all day, and then, after we put the kids to bed, we keep working until late at night or even the early morning. Then we drag ourselves out of the bed early the next morning to do it all over again. Sleep deprivation is no joke. It’s one of the leading causes of chronic stress and can lead to serious physical and mental health problems. Make sleep a priority. Try to get at least seven or eight hours every night, and make your bedroom an oasis for you to recharge and reenergize.Your mind and body will thank you for it.

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Another thing you may want to consider is your caffeine intake.This one’s a sticky subject for Americans, considering how much we love our coffee and our pop and our chocolate. But in reality, we’re addicted to caffeine and often abuse it, which, in turn, has negative effects on our health and mental state. When taken moderately, caffeine can have positive results, as many recent studies have shown. But when you’re gulping down three extra-large mocha cappuccinos a day, it can affect your ability to sleep and make you irritable.Try to cut down on your caffeine consumption in order to feel more rested and in control. You don’t have to cut it out altogether; just use it in moderation and only in the morning hours if possible. You hear it all the time: get more exercise. Unfortunately for so many of us, between working and taking care of our family, exercise gets put on the backburner.We just don’t have the time or energy for it. Or at least that’s what we tell ourselves. Exercise is just as important as sleep and should be one of your priorities. That doesn’t mean you have to work out an hour every day, five days a week. But you should at least try to do 20 to 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day. Running and walking are both wonderful stress relievers. So is yoga, which can not only help you develop lean muscle, but which can also help you release stress in your muscles as well as in your mind. The key is to find something that you enjoy and that you will look forward to every day.

“Exercise is just as important as sleep and should be one of your priorities.”

One of the main causes of stress is feeling overwhelmed with work and life. Sometimes it seems like there’s so much to do and so few hours in the day to accomplish everything. When things start to pile up it can seem like we have a mountain of obligations to overcome and deadlines to meet.The best way to handle this is to learn to prioritize things and, clichéd as it may sound, address issues one by one. Every Sunday night, sit down and take a look at the week ahead. What do you have to accomplish that week? Make a list of everything and prioritize it according to importance.Then, every morning, revisit your list and tackle things Continued on next page

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“Stress is and always will be a part of our lives. But it doesn’t have to rule our lives.”

one at a time. Nothing feels better than checking off tasks as you complete them. If more tasks and responsibilities appear throughout the week – as they most certainly will – don’t panic. Just add them to your list according to priority and continue to work at it.

When you take little steps like these to list your responsibilities and obligations and prioritize them accordingly, it can help you see the list as a series of little tasks instead of one big mountain of obligations. Will you always be able to accomplish everything? Probably not. But that’s all right.As long as you work within your means and use your time wisely, you can feel good about yourself knowing that you gave your best effort. Of course, stress isn’t always something you can tackle on your own. Don’t be

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afraid to reach out to others for help, whether it’s your family, friends, or even a professional counselor. Many workplaces nowadays offer free, confidential counseling for their employees. Take advantage of this important service if you can. Sometimes simply telling someone about your worries can help you unburden yourself and start feeling better. Stress is and always will be a part of our lives. But it doesn’t have to rule our lives. As long as you take steps to identify it and manage it on a daily basis, you can keep stress in check and ensure a healthier, more satisfying life for you and your family. | DHL

ive years ago Beth Elko and Robyn Race, the owners of Evolve Wellness Spa, made a common observation, “Most of the people we know are stressed out, tired and chronically unhappy.” That observation lead to the development of a dream to create a venue for lifestyle change, where people can begin to reverse the negative effects of living in a hectic world and move into a more positive and healthy state of being both mentally and physically.

The two owners/psychotherapists created this vision while earning their graduate degrees in psychology at Chatham University. “We realized that fatigue, mental and physical ailments were rooted in patterns of negative emotion and behavior, and the way to break those patterns is to begin implementing healthy lifestyle choices” said Race, “that requires making changes in both our thinking and our behavior.” However, making significant, lasting changes can be difficult and requires commitment, encouragement and support. Elko and Race hope to encourage and educate others to embrace a self-responsible, holistic lifestyle to support over-all wellness, anti-aging and self-love.

Evolve Wellness Spa, located at 228 S. Highland Avenue in Shadyside, features massage therapy, skincare treatments, Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic therapies, and other services. “It’s not just about pampering,” Elko said. “It’s about stress relief and personal self-care. It’s to be embraced as a lifestyle.”

Evolve also offers psychotherapy, lifestyle counseling, wellness workshops, and individual Tai Chi, yoga, and meditation instruction. “We believe that adding the psychological and spiritual components is essential to achieving real balance and making change.” said Race. “A person can completely relax while they are here, but what happens when they step foot out the door and back into the daily grind of life? We want our clients to develop and implement self-care skills to manage stress and feel vibrant on a daily basis.”

Evolve also partners with The Yoga Hive, a nearby yoga studio, offering yoga/spa packages to further encourage their clients to develop a regular habit of self-care and healthy living. The partnership has a great synergy as both businesses take a fresh, modern approach to time-tested practices.

Evolve limits toxic exposure by using organic and natural skin care and hygiene products. “One of our therapists has developed her own skincare line, which we are very excited about. Not only are the products fabulous, but we also know with certainty that the ingredients are high quality, organic and locally sourced when possible.”

“There isn’t one specific thing that will bring yourself to wellness,” Elko said. It’s definitely a multifaceted concept that develops into your own personal journey.”

One of the truly unique therapies Evolve offers is Classical Acupuncture, directed by acupuncturist Andrew Macfarlane. Classical Acupuncture, which is distinct yet inclusive of the more commonly practiced Traditional Chinese Medicine, is a profound, ancient holistic medical system, encompassing a vast understanding of the nature of health and illness and the ability to treat numerous conditions. It is a healing art which has stood the test of time and continues to be as effective in modern society as it was in antiquity.

Classical Acupuncture is based in a multitude of Chinese medical traditions stemming from Taoist roots. Utilizing a clinical understanding of all 74 acupuncture meridians, as opposed to the 14 commonly employed today, it stands out as a complete standalone healing modality. This translates into precisely tailored, focused, individualized, and most importantly, highly effective treatments for even very complex conditions. Mr. Macfarlane L.Ac enjoys treating a range of things, including promoting wellness and longevity, and has a special interest in chronic degenerative disease, autoimmune, psycho-emotional, digestive, and female health issues. Having studied under the world famous master, Dr. Jeffrey Yuen, Mr. Macfarlane has enjoyed a diversity of clinical experience including being featured in a National Institutes of Health funded chronic pain study at Montefiore Hospital in New York, working at the AIDS Center of Queens County in New York, and treating many disorders at the Yu Wen Clinic in New York. He joined Evolve Wellness Spa last spring and is grateful to share this modality with the wonderful residents of Pittsburgh. “Andrew is an incredible healer,” said Race. “His clients have reported profound results and we feel fortunate to have him on our team.” 228 South Highland Ave. in Shadyside Pittsburgh, PA 15206 412-441-0860 www.evolvewellnessspa.com Scan to See Current Specials!

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Tips for keeping your home healthy (ARA) - Maintaining a healthy home is critical for your family’s welfare - especially now as the weather cools and you begin to spend more time indoors. Applying a few simple solutions now will ensure your indoor living environment is safe and healthy for seasons to come.

Reduce toxins Less desirable weather may make fall and winter seem like an ideal time to tackle your indoor painting projects. However, you need to be mindful of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in many interior paints and finishes. VOCs are one of the biggest threats to indoor air quality; they include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have both short- and longterm health effects. For indoor jobs, select paint with low or no VOCs to keep your air fresher. Additionally, some houseplants such as ivy and gerbera daisies can help to naturally remove VOCs from your indoor air.

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Clean your indoor air

Watch out for CO

Ragweed and pollen will trigger allergy symptoms for millions of people this fall; however, the worst allergy triggers are often found inside the home. Installing a whole-home air filtration system can help to remove indoor allergens including dust, mildew, pet dander and pollen from the air you breathe. For example, the AccuClean (TM) System by American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning removes up to 99.98 percent of the allergens from your filtered air, so even if it’s allergy season outdoors, your indoor air is crisp and clean.

Protect your indoor living environment from carbon monoxide or CO by installing CO detectors or alarms throughout your home. This winter, make sure your home’s heating system, including items such as a furnace or heat pump, vents and chimney, are inspected and serviced by a professional contractor. And, if there is a fireplace in your home, open the damper before lighting a fire to help prevent the buildup of potentially poisonous gases inside of your home.

Prevent mold During the cooler fall and winter months, people tend to seal up their homes and spend more time inside, which traps moisture and humidity - both significant contributors to indoor mold growth. Maintain healthy indoor humidity levels by venting bathrooms and clothes dryers and using an exhaust fan while cooking. Install an air humidifier to provide year-round control of your indoor moisture level, and keep your home at 50 percent humidity or lower to reduce the chance for mold growth.

Keep a seasonal routine Most homeowners already know it’s important to test their smoke alarms on a monthly basis, but how often do you change the alarm’s batteries? One way to keep track of alarm maintenance is to make battery changing a seasonal activity. For example, beginning in fall, replace the batteries in your smoke alarms (and CO detectors), every time you reset your clocks. By taking these simple steps now, you’ll create a safer and healthier home, allowing your family to relax and enjoy all the delights the fall season has to offer - both outdoors and indoors.

faucet can waste gallons of water. Just one drip per second can waste up to 1,661 gallons of water in a year, according to EnergyStar.gov. You can also conserve water by installing a low-flow showerhead, which can save you as much as 5 gallons of water during a 10-minute shower. Many manufacturers now offer stylish, waterefficient faucets and showerheads.

A venting skylight in the bath not only provides natural light and passive ventilation but affords privacy.

Fun, surprising cost-saving home improvements

They’re also relatively low-cost when it comes to “luxury” home improvements. You can get an Energy Star qualified “No Leak Skylight” from Velux for about $1,000 per unit for a remotecontrolled electric venting model that closes automatically should it rain. Log on to www.veluxusa.com to find a local installer for a customized cost estimate.

(ARA) - Who wouldn’t like to save money on utility bills this winter? But have you ever considered some of the more common energy-efficient home improvements like insulating your hot water heater or replacing incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents - and thought “dullsville”? Sometimes the act of saving money just isn’t fun enough on its own. Fortunately, you can make home improvements that will trim your utility bills and boost your home’s appeal at the same time. Here are four fun home improvements that are surprisingly energy efficient as well: 1. Buy a new dishwasher - Or clothes washer. Older appliances were not only built to be less energy efficient, they can lose what little efficiency they had as they age. If your appliances are more than 10 years old, they likely use more energy and water than newer models, especially new models that are Energy Star qualified. Dishwashers purchased before 1994 use an additional 10 gallons or more of water per cycle than a new Energy Star qualified model, according to EnergyStar.gov. And if you don’t have a dishwasher at all, don’t think of buying one as just a luxury.

3. Let the sun shine in - A venting skylight is a fun way to fill your home with nourishing natural light and passive ventilation, but did you know it’s also energy efficient? Installing a venting skylight can help you lower your electric bill by reducing your dependency on artificial light and electric fans. Natural light has been tied to a host of health benefits, including improving mood. A skylight not only enhances the energy efficiency of your home, it adds decorating flair and could make you feel better about living there.

Venting skylights provide decorating flair with providing natural light and passive ventilation.

Energy Star says you’ll save 5,000 gallons of water and knock $40 per year off your utility bills if you give up washing dishes by hand - not to mention 230 hours of your time. 2. Beautify your bathroom - Kitchens and baths sell homes, but they’re also the rooms where the most water gets used and wasted. Old fixtures and faucets are among the top water-wasting culprits in a home. You can conserve water by turning off the tap when you brush your teeth, but that water savings goes down the drain if the toilet runs constantly when you leave the room.

4. Install a fireplace - Zone heating the areas of your home where you spend the most time can reduce your home heating bill by 20 to 40 percent, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. Installing an energy- efficient fireplace or a stove is a great, appealing way to zone heat the rooms you use the most. What’s more, this type of heating can be “greener,” if you use renewable fuels like cord wood, pellets or other plant-derived materials in your high-efficiency stove or fireplace. As for the fun quotient, it’s hard to top a fireplace for a home improvement that adds warmth and appeal to a room. Saving money can be doubly exciting, when you opt for energy-efficient home improvements that also enhance enjoyment of your home. | DHL

Replacing leaky fixtures can reap significant water savings. Energy Star says a leaky DHL DHL

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It’s that time of year again. So let’s deck the halls and, while we’re at it, all of the house! The holidays are all about family and the traditions that we have made over the years. For example, I collect Christmas tree ornaments from every place I visit. And when I hang them on the tree each year, it’s like a trip back in time.

It’s also fun to create new ways to decorate the house. Since the holidays are when we entertain, it’s the opportune time to do something unusual that will make our homes especially festive.

I love looking at the professionally designed table tops in stores like Bergdorf’s and Tiffany’s and at the shows I attend in New York. Even the catalog companies have a wealth of ideas where I can glean some inspiration.

Currently the overwhelming trend is metallic finishes mixed with natural

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materials. A combination of texture in the fabrics, flowers, materials, and containers adds a lot of interest, whether you are decorating the table or the mantel.

Think about the furnishings in the room and your particular style of decorating. Is it formal or casual? Contemporary or

traditional? Christmas doesn’t mean just red and green and poinsettias. Allow your personal style and the colors of your rooms to give you direction. What better time to be a little daring and have some fun?

When I am doing room-makeovers, I often tell clients to pull out all the accessories they have tucked away and look for new ways to use them. Think about those cut-glass punch bowls, faux Staffordshire soup tureens, silver wine coolers, clear glass vases, blue and white Willow pattern bowls and baskets.Any of these will create a new look for your tabletop centerpieces and mantel.

For an organic or more rustic look, use garlands of greenery tied with burlap or raffia ribbon and bows in a natural color. For texture, look no further than your yard or our wooded landscape for hydrangeas, twigs, pinecones, magnolia leaves, and even pheasant feathers. For a final touch, add pears and touches of white flowers such as tulips.To add some punch, coat the pinecones with a clear spray finish and sprinkle them with glitter. Baskets in a variety of shapes and sizes make great containers. Likewise, tree branches in a terracotta pot filled with plaster and then Continued on page 26

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covered with moss can hold a collection of small ornaments.

For a contemporary look, greenery, tree branches, and other natural materials might be sprayed with touches of gold, silver, or even bronze. Ribbons can coordinate with the colors of your room, and tall spikes of amaryllis can complement a modern design. If these are potted, cover the pots with large white napkins pulled up around them. White calla lilies in the clear glass vases surrounded by the glittery garland can also create a dramatic effect. To give the traditional style an updated, elegant look, add lots of sparkle. Spray-paint dried roses and other flowers in gold or silver, depending on the colors of your room. Silver looks best with blue and rose shades; gold looks great with reds, greens, and purples. The metallic finishes will punctuate the deep, vivid, traditional colors.Vintage ornaments, peacock feathers, red and green apples, or pomegranates dusted with a coat of shine will glisten in large silver, brass, or crystal bowls.

NANCY HOFF BARSOTTI INTERIOR DESIGN Creating stylish, timeless and distinctive interiors for home and office for over 30 years Nancy Hoff Barsotti, FASID Fellow of the American Society of Interior Designers NCIDQ Certified #1482

2338 East Carson Street, South Side

412-381-0845 â&#x153;Ś NancyBarsotti.com

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As for table settings, the rule of everything having to match is long gone. Raid your buffet drawers (or the nearest second-hand store) for linensâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;white tablecloths covered with sheer fabrics, colored liners underneath lace cloths, runners trimmed with tassels, or even mirrored discs for placemats. If your tablecloths are to small, use smaller coordinating ones draped at angles to cover the table. I saw this on a formal dining table in the Schoonbrun Palace in Vienna. And if it was good enough for the Hapsburgs, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good enough for you. Use charger plates in metallic finishes (available in discount stores) mixed with plain and patterned china or ceramic dishes. Cut or plain Continued on page 28

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stemware in colors mixed with clear crystal can also add a lot of interest to the table. Tie ribbon with wired edges around napkins and add a sprig of pine. For a really special final touch, add handmade place cards and a tiny favor or gift at each place setting.

Last but not least, the glow of candles should be everywhere. Group various styles and heights of candleholders â&#x20AC;&#x201C; metal, glass, and ceramic â&#x20AC;&#x201C; together and unify them with one color of candle. Ivory seems to harmonize with most finishes, colors, and textures. The more votive candles in clear glass holders the better. This year bask in the joy of sharing your efforts with family and friends. Merry Christmas! | DHL

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By David Plantowski

hen I caught wind that

our publisher was creating

a feature on family health and wellness in this issue, I thought I’d jump on the bandwagon.

After all, winter is a challenging

time for garden topics in western

Pennsylvania, so I thought I’d write about something I’m quite passionate about: antioxidants.

You may not know it, but herbs and spices are a great source of antioxidants. Many scientists have released studies recently that include both fresh and dried herbs as a wonderful source for helping to fight those nasty, disease-causing free radicals.

Free Radicals As we age, trying to stay healthy can be a struggle. Having energy, staying mentally sharp, and maintaining overall good health is important for anyone 50 years of age or older. The problem is, how you live your life in your 20s, 30s, and 40s can dramatically affect your health into your 50s and beyond. And when it comes to aging, the real enemy is free radicals. So what is a free radical? A free radical, simply put, is an atom or molecule that has an unpaired electron that attacks our healthy cells. Generally, free radicals attack the nearest stable molecule while stealing its

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electron. When the molecule is attacked and loses its electron, it becomes a free radical itself, which starts a chain reaction.

high ORAC score will help you fight free radicals, which, if not addressed, can cause cancer in the long run. So it’s definitely something to consider.

You could read on the Internet all day about studies that link age-related diseases to free radicals. To keep it simple, it’s like taking a bite out of an apple (hopefully organic!). When you bite into an apple and let it sit, it will immediately start to oxidate, change color, and decompose. It’s very similar to what happens with rust on a car. The same thing is happening inside your body with oxidation. That is why antioxidants are so important to a healthy diet.

In my opinion all fresh herbs are wonderful, but there a few that have a high antioxidant value: sage (ORAC value 32,400 per 100 grams); thyme (ORAC value of 27,426 per 100 grams); marjoram (ORAC value 27,297 per 100 grams); tarragon (ORAC value of 15,542 per 100 grams); peppermint (ORAC value 13,978 per 100 grams); oregano (ORAC value of 13,970 per 100 grams); savory (ORAC value 9,465 per 100 grams); and basil (ORAC value of 4,805 per 100 grams).

Now that we know what a free radical is, where does it start? Free radicals sometimes come about naturally to combat viruses and bacteria. They are also caused by toxins mainly from environmental factors such as pollution, cigarette smoke, herbicides, and pollution. Our bodies can usually handle free radicals under normal circumstances. But when the free radical production becomes excessive, problems can arise, like oxidative stress and inflammation, which can cause damage to your cells and harm to your body. So how do we combat the effects of free radicals? The answer is simple: eat foods that are rich in antioxidants. Each food has what is called an ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) score. The higher the ORAC score of the individual food, the better it is in fighting free radicals.

Your Indoor Winter Herb Garden Eating the herbs you harvest from your indoor garden will not cure cancer, but eating a well-balanced diet full of organic foods, herbs, spices, and plants with a

The key to a successful herb garden is making sure the plants getting enough sunlight, water, and warmth during the winter months. If possible, make sure they get eight hours of natural sunlight every day. You can also supplement your window light with a grow-light. Just make sure you follow the directions for safe use. Continued on next page

Once you have your lighting arranged, make sure you provide enough moisture to your garden. During the winter months your home is often too dry for adequate growing conditions. Consider placing your herb pots over a tray full of pebbles, with water surrounding the pebbles. As the water evaporates it will add humidity to the area around your herb plants. Just make sure you watch the water levels to keep proper moisture in the air. Your herbs should flourish indoors, but they will require much more maintenance than normal houseplants. You also need to check for pests regularly. Sometimes a little soapy water misted on the plants will do the trick. You can find many other remedies online. Container gardening is a great way to control your plants. Choose a container that is small enough to be able to move around the house, and move it towards sunlight if needed. You can also easily move them outdoors once the weather changes. Remember to choose organic potting soil in a bag from your favorite

garden center. Consider using a different clay pot for each herb. Use care in planting the delicate plants in your container and try to pack the soil well around the plants. Obviously you want to yield great results, so choosing herbs that you’ll have some success with is the key. You want to also make sure that you plant herbs that you know you’ll use. Do your research before choosing your herbs. Some herbs, such as mint, could possibly cross pollinate if you plant different varieties too close to each other. Sage, rosemary, basil, thyme, and oregano will do great with proper care. For many more valuable tips, just search “indoor herb gardens” in the Internet and you’ll find all the information you’ll need. Just follow my advice and you should yield great results with your indoor herb garden. Until next time, stay warm and safe this winter. I look forward to talking to you again in the spring! | DHL

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By Tom Abraham, President, Builders Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh

o you huff and puff excessively after climbing a flight of stairs? It may be time to join the growing number of Americans who exercise on a regular basis. Increasingly, evidence shows that exercise pays off, even for those who start a routine late in their lives. “But,” you say, “I just don’t have time, and health clubs are too expensive!”

Why not hurdle those obstacles by bringing the gym home? The home exercise facility offers what every American seeks — convenience and value. And it significantly cuts the number of viable excuses for not sweating off those extra pounds.

Why Home? You could save enough for a down payment on a house with the money you might spend in some health club dues over the next five years. But if you’re budget conscious and choose your exercise equipment carefully, you can get in shape at a reasonable price by setting up a home gym. Budget conscious folks can convert a spare bedroom into an exercise salon. Just clear the room out, buy the needed equipment, and, voila, you have an exercise room. Continued on next page DHL

Many people buying or building a new home mark workout space at the top of their wish-lists, right next to home offices and media centers. So many upscale houses now on the market include an exercise room. In some new homes, exercise areas fit between the master bedroom and bath area.

Equipping Your Exercise Room Before you buy home exercise equipment, try it out! If you know what you’re getting when you buy it, you’ll be less likely to one day stuff the equipment into a dusty corner of the attic. Test all machines for at least 15 minutes to determine stability, smoothness and comfort. With a home gym, you save the time you would spend traveling to a health club. Say it takes you 15 minutes one-way to the health club of your choice. That’s half an hour each day you go to the gym. And if you go three times a week for a month, you waste six hours. That’s practically one night’s sleep! Living today’s hectic lifestyle, you could easily find better use for that six hours. And, with a home exercise room, you don’t have to pack up the sneakers and get ready to go someplace. Even if you have a health club membership and like the facility, you probably can’t always make it there as often as you’d like. Again, the best solution is to set up an exercise room in your home. Studies show that 56 percent of people with gym memberships also have home equipment.

Some people opt for the home gym because local health clubs are too crowded, instead of waiting in line half an hour to use a treadmill, they are bringing the treadmill home. Others don’t like to watch sweat from a stranger on a neighboring treadmill or are shy about perspiring profusely in front of others. The home exercise room solves all these problems.

Building Your Health Club Some home owners are transforming bedrooms, patios, garages and large closets into miniature health clubs. And those who can’t afford to spare whole rooms are putting exercise equipment almost anyplace it will fit. Just remember to put your equipment in a space large enough to accommodate it. You need room to walk around your equipment and make adjustments or repairs. Ideally, you will have: 30 square feet for a treadmill; 10 square feet for a stationary bike; 10 to 20 square feet for a stair climber; 20 to 50 square feet for free weights; and 35 square feet for a single-station gym. The less budget conscious home owners build new exercise rooms onto their homes. Typically, such rooms are 15 by 18 feet, with eight to nine foot ceilings. But the room’s size should vary based on the amount of equipment a family will purchase. These custom-designed rooms often include a mirrored wall and nap carpet, wood or vinyl floors and can cost between $8,000 and $10,000.

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What kind of equipment do you need? It depends on what you’re trying to do. If you want to lose fat, purchase cardiovascular equipment such as treadmills, stationary bikes and stair steppers. But to tone or build muscle, you need resistance training equipment such as dumbbells or barbells. In addition to discussing the equipment with Continued on page 36

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experts in physical training techniques, you should also consult your personal doctor about how your current physical condition might be affected by a new exercise regimen. Go to an exercise equipment specialty store. They carry the best products, have the most knowledgeable staff, and will provide services including delivery, assembly and repairs. Buy the best equipment you can afford because it will give you a better workout and won’t break down as easily. And, most importantly, it will be less likely to be relegated to the back corner of your garage. Don’t limit the equipment in your home gym to exercise only. You’ll need some entertainment and motivation. Your room could also include a: • TV and VCR. Time in the ‘gym’ will pass more quickly when you can watch your favorite show. And you can play an exercise video on the VCR.

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• Stereo. It’s more fun to work out with rhythm. • Large wall clock. You should time your workout. • Bookrack on your stationary bike or treadmill. You can increase your knowledge while decreasing your waistline. Make sure the room is properly ventilated with an air conditioner or ceiling fan. You will find yourself more motivated to exercise and the inches will disappear. Have a great workout! Need help transfroming that underutilized room into a healthy workout environment? Be sure to use a professional remodeler who can help you with the physical improvements before you take on your own physical transformation. To locate a professional remodeler near you or for more information about home gyms, contact the Builders Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh at www.pghhomebuilders.com. | DHL

Since 1973 Londonbury Homes has been recognized as one of Pittsburgh’s premier home builders. We strive to make building your home one of life’s most enjoyable experiences. You’ll receive exceptional quality and tremendous attention to detail while incorporating our homebuyer’s personal design. Londonbury’s Award Winning custom homes feature classic details, designs and amenities to address the expectations of the most discriminating buyer. Your satisfaction is our highest priority. For more information on our Award Winning homes please call Dion McMullen at Londonbury Homes: 412-276-3333 431 Jane Street Carnegie, PA 15106 londonburyhomes@comcast.net 1996 - 2003 Housing Excellence Award Winner

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designinghomelifestyles.com

By Steve Stones

here are so many to choose from and most don’t require much care during their flowering period or afterward. Orchids, Christmas cactus, Urn plant, Poinsettias, Amaryllis, Cyclamen, and Kalanchoe all provide great holiday color with minimal care and optimal impact.

Most flowering plants require bright light and additional watering with fertilizer before they will set their flowers; others need cooler nighttime temperatures and longer periods of daylight before they flower.

Bromeliads, orchids, and Kalanchoes require additional light and water with fertilizer. Bromeliads are sometimes picky and

need to have ethylene gas (what ripening fruit gives off) to convince them to start their show. Once the plant has flowered, it will be a great green plant addition; however, it will not flower again and will produce “pups” or new plantlets that will start the process all over again. Orchids will re-flower for years and, in some instances, after the first set of flowers, if you trim the stem down at a budding node, they will send off an additional stem with a few more beautiful flowers. These plants enjoy cooler nighttime temperatures with southern exposure to get their flower production going, along with some fertilizer with every Continued on next page DHL

watering. After flowering they will need a short rest to recover but will only need further encouragement and possible repotting in spring to start the show off again.

Kalanchoes are the easiest to convince to show off. Just provide some bright light and extra fertilizer and they will flower in all seasons. They can get leggy, too, so some pruning of the spent flowers will help maintain their compact shape.

Christmas cactus will flower when nighttime temperatures chill off some and you decrease their light during the day (generally setting their buds in fall with the shortening daylight, developing fully by Christmas). If the plant is in a room with artificial light at night, you should consider putting a black plastic bag over it nightly and removing it in the morning.You can also just move it to a dark space nightly. Sometimes the flower buds will fall off because of drafts or because of over- or under-watering.These plants can bloom around Easter or whenever the lighting changes. After they flower their rest period can be fairly long and

require only slight watering and minimal care, but they will last for generations if given some new soil every couple of years. They are available in white, pink, rose, red and other blends. Small Christmas cactus also quickly respond to re-rooting in water or in soil, so in no time youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have large specimens that you can hand down to your family members. Poinsettias arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t for the impatient or the novice gardener, especially if you want to keep one from year to year. I suggest purchasing a new one every year, since they require some major effort to repeat their show.

Poinsettias, which were originally shrubs discovered in Mexico, were exposed to the general populous many years ago by a Californian named Paul Ecke and along with Scandinavian growers have made them a hit in many colors ranging from red, pink and purple, to white and marble, with many designer colors reaching the market, including yellow, plum and spotted beauties. Best of all they require just water to stay happy when you bring them home. Poinsettia flowers

Christmas Cactus

Cyclamen

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Amaryllis

aren’t flowers at all but leaf “bracts.” The true flowers, which are yellow and fuzzy, are at the centers and are insignificant. When purchasing Poinsettias from a supplier, make sure they have these little centers as this is a sign they are fresh. These gems need to have plenty of water and fertilizer and require specific lighting requirements if they are to set their spectacular show.They need short-days, i.e., the bract formation can be initiated only by an eight-week period of no more than 10 hours of light and no less than 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness per day, which can be a major chore for any novice plant enthusiast. They also hate extreme temperatures, too. Amaryllis is one of the easiest to re-flower. They are short-lived and aren’t the most handsome of green plant after-show. Purchased with a container and available in many colors, the flower is already inside the bulb waiting to share its beauty. Start by keeping them moist but not overly wet and in a bright window to encourage a shorter stem, and stake it to keep it from bending. After flowering, trim off the stem and allow the leaves to grow and nourish the bulb for the next season. Mid-fall, trim the foliage and force them to rest in a cool dark space in the same pot, and don’t water them. By December, return them into the light and add some water.You should see the flower head peak out first. If green leaves start first, it is unlikely they will re-flower, but let it leaf-out and try again the next year. Amaryllis

Poinsettia

enjoys warm room temperatures to get started but no higher than 65° F or they will fade fast. Every third or fourth year, re-pot completely.

Cyclamen are very similar, requiring a rest period after the flowers have faded but are more finicky and usually require more effort than most home plant enthusiasts are willing to provide. | DHL

Steve Stones is a professional horticulturist and President of an interior landscaping company.

Kalanchoe

Moth Orchid

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Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District with The

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s First Night® Pittsburgh 2011.

This family-friendly community event is presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, with generous support from lead sponsor Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. During this momentous weekend of entertainment, the city will revel in a joyous celebration of the arts: dance, music, theater, comedy, magic, visual art and film, plus hands-on activities for children and adults.

First Night® Pittsburgh begins at 6 pm with the Dollar Bank Children’s Fireworks Display, followed by the First Niagara First Night® Parade at 8 pm. The evening concludes with a free concert and the First Night® tradition, The Countdown to Midnight and Future of Pittsburgh Grand Finale atop Penn Avenue Place. The Highmark Stage, where all the First Night® revelry concludes, is located on Penn Avenue next to Fifth Avenue Place.

FIRST NIGHT® BUTTONS

To join the celebration, simply purchase an all-access First Night® Pittsburgh 2011 Button.A First Night® button costs only $8 in advance, $10 at the door; children age 5 and under are admitted for free. First Night® buttons are available at participating Giant Eagle stores, at The Box Office at Theater Square, online at www.firstnightpgh.org, and by calling 412-456-6666.

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Grapes - New Year’s revelers in Spain consume twelve grapes at midnight—one grape for each stroke of the clock. This dates back to 1909, when grape growers in the Alicante region of Spain initiated the practice to take care of a grape surplus. The idea stuck, spreading to Portugal as well as former Spanish and Portuguese colonies such as Venezuela, Cuba, Mexico, Ecuador, and Peru. Each grape represents a different month, so if for instance the third grape is a bit sour, March might be a rocky month. For most, the goal is to swallow all the grapes before the last stroke of midnight, but Peruvians insist on taking in a 13th grape for good measure. Legumes - Legumes including beans, peas, and lentils are also symbolic of money. Their small, seedlike appearance resembles coins that swell when cooked so they are consumed with financial rewards in mind. In Italy, it’s customary to eat cotechino con lenticchie or sausages and green lentils, just after midnight—a particularly propitious meal because pork has its own lucky associations. Germans also partner legumes and pork, usually lentil or split pea soup with sausage. In Brazil, the first meal of the New Year is usually lentil soup or lentils and rice, and in Japan, the osechi-ryori, a group of symbolic dishes eaten during the first three days of the new year, includes sweet black beans called kuro-mame. Pork - The custom of eating pork on New Year’s is based on the idea that pigs symbolize progress. The animal pushes forward, rooting itself in the ground before moving. Roast suckling pig is served for New Year’s in Cuba, Spain, Portugal, Hungary, and Austria—Austrians are also known to decorate the table with miniature pigs made of marzipan. Different pork dishes such as pig’s feet are enjoyed in Sweden while Germans feast on roast pork and sausages. Pork is also consumed in Italy and the United States, where thanks to its rich fat content, it signifies wealth and prosperity. Cakes - Cakes and other baked goods are commonly served from Christmas to New Year’s around the world, with a special emphasis placed on round or ring-shaped items. Italy has chiacchiere, which are honey-drenched balls of pasta dough fried and dusted with powdered sugar. Poland, Hungary, and the Netherlands also eat donuts, and Holland has ollie bollen, puffy, donut-like pastries filled with apples, raisins, and currants. In certain cultures, it’s customary to hide a special trinket or coin inside the cake—the recipient will be lucky in the new year. Mexico's rosca de reyes is a ring-shaped cake decorated with

candied fruit and baked with one or more surprises inside. In Greece, a special round cake called vasilopita is baked with a coin hidden inside. At midnight or after the New Year’s Day meal, the cake is cut, with the first piece going to St. Basil and the rest being distributed to guests in order of age. Sweden and Norway have similar rituals What Not to Eat - In addition to the aforementioned lucky foods, there are also a few to avoid. Lobster, for instance, is a bad idea because they move backwards and could therefore lead to setbacks. Chicken is also discouraged because the bird scratches backwards, which could cause regret or dwelling on the past. Another theory warns against eating any winged fowl because good luck could fly away. Now that you know what to eat, there's one more superstition—that is, guideline—to keep in mind. In Germany, it's customary to leave a little bit of each food on your plate past midnight to guarantee a stocked pantry in the New Year. Likewise in the Philippines, it’s important to have food on the table at midnight. The conclusion? Eat as much lucky food as you can, just don’t get too greedy—or the first place you'll be going in the new year is the gym. Bring on the Noise! New Year's wouldn't be complete with noisemakers! Tradition holds that making lots of noise at midnight will ward off evil spirits from entering the New Year.

Pick up enough party blowers and noisemakers from the Celebrations Party Store or try the oldfashioned waybang pots and pans with your guests! Money in Your Pocket - Be sure to keep some change in your pocket at midnight to bring good fortune and wealth in the New Year. Just before midnight, pass around a roll of coins to your guests to make sure everyone is prepared! Wear Something New (and Red!) - Forecast your fashion fortune in the coming months and wear a new outfit on New Year’s. Even if it is one piece like a fancy new skirt for you or tie for you guy, this superstition is a perfect excuse for a little shopping. Or, double your luck and be sure to wear something in red. The Midnight Kiss - We all know how important that first kiss at midnight is, especially so for spouses and significant others. That first kiss ensures intimacy and a close relationship throughout the New Year. Pucker up with a special new lip gloss! | DHL

Happy New Year’s from Designing Home Lifestyles Magazine! DHL

CULTURAL EVENTS What Else To Do? Take in a show, dine with family and friends, it’s all about enjoying the culture in one of America’s true great cities – Pittsburgh, PA!

Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra – Heinz Hall 600 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (412) 392-4900 www.pittsburghsymphony.org Holiday Pops! December 9, 2011 Venue: Scottish Rite Cathedral in New Castle Highmark Family Holiday Pops December 10, 2011 Highmark Holiday Pops with Marvin December 15–18, 2011 B. E. Taylor Christmas Concert Venue: Scottish Rite Cathedral in New Castle December 17, 2011 Pittsburgh Cultural Trust

Trust Presents, a programming division of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, brings a diverse array of entertainment from live music to uproarious comedy to literary luminaries and world-famous artists. The great mix of performances promises something for everyone. The Agony and the Ecstacy of Steve Jobs January 21, 2012 David Garrett January 29, 2012 Cedric Watson & Bijou Creole February 8, 2012 National Geographic Live: Ocean Soul February 12, 2012

Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances January 13–15, 2012

Playing for Change February 29, 2012

“Tribute” Concert January 20, 2012 Venue: August Wilson Center

Featured

Marvin, Dave Koz and the Movies January 26–29, 2012 Brahms’ Requiem February 3–5, 2012 Beethoven, Mozart & Respighi February 10 and 12, 2012 Cirque Dreams Pop Goes The Rock February 21–26, 2012

Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater 803 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (412) 321-5520 • www.pghkids.org Charlotte’s Web January 8–15, 2012 The Way Back Home February 26–March 4, 2012

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Presented by: The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust

Memphis December 27, 2011–January 1, 2012

Fiddlesticks – Skate into Winter January 21, 2012

Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series

Straight No Chaser December 13, 2011 Venue: Benedum Center Dance Works Rotterdam/Andre Gingras February 18, 2012 Presented by Pittsburgh Dance Council Venue: Byham Theater

PNC Broadway Across America Memphis December 27, 2011–January 1, 2012 Venue: Heinz Hall Billy Elliot January 31–February 12, 2012 Venue: Benedum Center

JazzLive Presented by: Trust Education and Community Engagement Department BNY Mellon Jazz Presents JazzLive JazzLive is a year-round FREE* live jazz series taking place at The Cabaret at Theater Square, Backstage Bar, and Katz Plaza**. Open to the public, this popular Pittsburgh Cultural Trust music series showcases some of the region’s finest jazz musicians every Tuesday from 5pm-11pm in the heart of the Cultural District.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra

The Winter Lifestyles Section of Designing HOME Lifestyles Magazine is dedicated to promoting the growth and development of Cultural and Tourism related businesses in Western Pennsylvania. Please contact us at info@DesigningHomeLifestyles.com for information on how to participate in future editions. Dates and pertinent information of events are subject to change. Please contact each organization directly to confirm all dates, times and availability. The included events are only a portion of cultural events in Western Pennsylvania. For additional information and other events try visiting The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust at www.pgharts.org.

*Unless otherwise noted. **From September to May, all performances take place in the Backstage Bar. In the summer, live jazz moves outdoors to Katz Plaza from 5pm - 7pm

Benny Benack III & Friends December 20, 2011 Brett Williams December 27, 2011 Roger Humphries & RH Factor December 27, 2011

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre 719 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (412) 281-3973 • www.pbt.org The Nutcracker December 2–23, 2011 Venue: Benedum Center Uncommon with Chamber Orchestra February 3-12, 2012 Venue: August Wilson Center

Carnegie Museum of Natural History www.carnegiemnh.org

Carnegie Science Center www.carnegiesciencecenter.org Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh www.carnegiemuseums.org

George Jones New View Trio December 13, 2011

George Heid III December 20, 2011

Phipps Conservatory www.phipps.conservatory.org

The Warhol Museum www.warhol.org

Dining and drinks are available at the Backstage Bar.

Eric Johnson December 13, 2011

What Else To Do

Mattress Factory www.mattress.org

South Hills Chorale Mount Lebanon Methodist Church 3319 Liberty Avenue (412) 220-4227 • www.southhillschorale.org The South Hills Chorale begins it’s 52nd season with concerts to be performed at a new location. The Mount Lebanon Methodist Church at 3319 Liberty Avenue (across from Laughlin Funeral Home), will host the concert this December. The Chorale will be entertaining with new holiday renditions and some old favorites. The group has a variety of musical talent and “they love to sing.” The professional performances occur in December and May. Other community performances have delighted audiences at Heinz History Center in The Strip, South Park Classic Car Show, Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, Friendship Village and Providence Point. They have also shared the stage with Mount Lebanon High School Percussion Ensemble as well as Pittsburgh Youth Symphony. Auditions for new members can be arranged by contacting Elaine Moore at (412) 655-8633 or email emoorewpsd@aol.com.

Dining Out Around Pittsburgh MITCHELL’S FISH MARKET SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & BAR The Waterfront – (412) 476-8844 Mt. Lebanon at the Galleria (412) 571-3474 www.MitchellsFishMarket.com

Please visit the Chefs and Restaurants in our Western Pennsylvania’s Top Chef section: CIOPPINO – (412) 281-6593 IBIZA – (412) 325-2227 JG’S TARENTUN STATION GRILLE – (724) 226-3301 NOLA ON THE SQUARE – (412) 471-9100 PARIS 66 – (412) 404-8166 ROCKWELL’S RED LION RESTAURANT – (412) 384-3909 SEVICHE – (412) 697-3120

December concerts are December 16 and 17 at 7:30 pm.

SONOMA GRILLE – (412) 697-1336

Ticket Information: Admission: $15, Groups/$10-$12

THE ORIGINAL FISH MARKET – (412) 227-3657

Phone: (412) 221-9109 or E-mail: patmoraytis@comcast.net

Andy Warhol Museum

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Of course, nothing complements a great meal like a delicious drink. But with so many choices out there, it’s hard to pick one that’s right for each particular meal. That’s why, in addition to their unique blend of interesting recipes, we’ve asked these talented culinary artists to provide a selection of some of their favorite champagnes and sparkling wines, all of which are available at their various restaurants.

hen you think of the Holidays – the parties, gatherings, and family get-togethers – one thing comes to mind: food! After all, nothing gets you into the spirit of the season like all those delicious treats and dishes.

But sometimes, in the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season, it can be hard to come up with something fun and unique that will wow your guests and make this a year to remember.

It’s always nice to enjoy a home-cooked meal. However, the Holidays are also a great time to go out and enjoy a specially prepared meal at one of Pittsburgh’s many fine eateries. Our featured top chefs are dedicated to making sure that your experience at their establishment is a special one. They are genuinely interested in making each meal something that you will remember for a very long time.

If you haven’t made plans for New Year’s yet, don’t panic. Consider choosing one our featured restaurants to welcome in 2012. Our featured restaurants are all offering festive menus right now and would like to invite you to come and enjoy your next special occasion with them. Just be sure you make your reservations early to ensure you and all of your friends can all enjoy your evening together before all of the reservations are taken.

Together with our top chefs, we would like to wish you and your family a wonderful Holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

Meet Our “Top Chefs” and experience their favorite Holiday recipes 48

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and champagne and sparkling wine choices on the following pages... DHL

Ceviche INGREDIENTS

Dozen Oysters (On the Half Shell) 1/4 cup Pomegranate Juice 1 tsp. Shallots 1 tsp. Parsley (Minced) 1 Tbsp. Rice Wine Vinegar 2 tsp. Black Pepper 1 tsp. Olive Oil 1 oz Red Caviar

PREPARATION:

1. Shuck/half all oysters set aside in refrigerator 2. Mix all ingredients other than oysters and red caviar in large mixing bowl and whisk together 3. Chill the vinaigrette for a half hour 4. Spoon the vinaigrette over the halved oysters 5. Top with small amount of red caviar 6. Serve cold

Recipe Provided by: Chef Max Charles Scribner Seviche

Seviche Max Charles Scribner – Executive Chef Max grew up in Somerset, PA where he worked at various local restaurants. His father taught him a lot about the culinary world including how to grow a garden and many basic skills needed to become a chef. It was those early days with his father that he realized that he wanted to be a chef. In 2009 he moved to Pittsburgh to train at Le Cordon Blue. He worked his way through school and ended up working at Seviche. His hard work paid off becoming Executive Chef of one of the best restaurants in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. “I’ve always been grateful of my opportunities and I always take full advantage of them!”

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The Original Fish Market Restaurant Sean Davies – Executive Chef Executive Chef of The Original Fish Market since 2009, Sean Davies has kept the downtown Pittsburgh restaurant true to its concept of delivering fresh fish flown in from around the world daily. Davies, who has 20 years of culinary experience, sources sustainable seafood through diligent research, personal travel and dialog with fisherman, and association with organizations such as Monterey Bay Aquarium’s renowned Seafood Watch Program and Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium’s Partnership Program. He seeks out seasonal ingredients from local growers to enhance his international seafood discoveries and deliver the fresh taste and socially conscious menus that modern diners crave.

Rockwell’s Red Lion Restaurant Orrie Rockwell III – Executive Chef Orrie is a fourth generation businessman from Borough of Elizabeth, PA. He was born and raised in Elizabeth and attended Johnson and Wales College in Providence, RI. He graduated in 1988 with a Bachelor Degree in Food Service Management. After working at various establishments to gain additional experience, Orrie returned to his family’s restaurant in 1992 where he took over as Executive Chef. His love of food and service injected a new excitement into the restaurant. With his creative menu and interesting food, his family restaurant transformed to a very successful upscale restaurant. Rockwell’s Red Lion attracts guests from all over the Pittsburgh area.

Shrimp and Grits with Lobster Butter

Serves 6-10 people

INGREDIENTS: 6 Cups Chicken Stock 2 Cups Instant Grits 2 Cups Red Peppers (Diced) 2 Cups Corn 1 Tbsp. Salt 1 Tbsp. White Pepper

3 Cups Half and Half Cream 2 Cups Asiago Cheese 2 lbs Shrimp (Medium, Peeled & Deveined) 1/2 lb Butter 1/5 lb Lobster (Small Pieces) 1 lb Broccoli Florets

Lobster Butter Use butter at room temperature. Drain lobster well and mix with butter until well blended. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about a half hour.

Broccoli

Bring 1/2 gallon of water to a boil. Place broccoli into boiling water for about 3-4 minutes of until al dente. Drain the broccoli from the water and hold until needed covered on a plate to keep warm.

Shrimp

Place cleaned shrimp into a warm sautĂŠ pan and cook until they are firm to the touch. Be sure to not overcook!

Grits

In a large sauce pan bring chicken broth to a boil. Add salt and pepper and the grits stirring with a wooden spoon. Reduce heat to medium. Cook about 3 minutes and then add red peppers and corn. Cook about another 3 more minutes and then add cream and Asaigo cheese. Stir until cheese has melted and cream is properly incorporated.

Plating

Divide grits into equal portions in bowls. Top with hot shrimp that is also divided equally. Cut lobster butter into slices with a warm knife and place over top of the shrimp. Place warm broccoli florets around the grits. Recipe Provided by: Chef Orrie Rockwell Rockwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Red Lion Restaurant

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Pork with sauerkraut & apples INGREDIENTS:

2-3 lb Boneless Pork Loin (Cut into 10 oz. Chops) 8 oz. Apricot Jam 1.5 lb Yukon Gold Potatoes 12 oz. Fresh Sauerkraut 1 Spanish Onion (Small to Medium & Julienned) 1/2 Carrot (Shredded)

1 Fuji Apple 2 Qt Apple Cider 2T Whole Grain Mustard 4 oz. Unsalted Butter Dash Extra Virgin Olive Oil Kosher Salt & Pepper to Taste

PREPARATION: Thinly slice potatoes. In a large mixing bowl toss potatoes with salt, pepper and olive oil until thoroughly seasoned and coated with oil. Place potatoes on cookie sheet and bake at 425 degrees until golden brown, set aside to cool. In a small sauce pot reduce apple cider until slightly thickens, set aside. The pork may be grilled or pan seared to desired doneness. Simply season with salt and pepper. Spread apricot jam over top, place under broiler for approximately two minutes. Heat up sauerkraut in medium saute pan and place on center of plate (season to taste).

In separate large saute pan over medium, heat up butter, add onions and lightly caramelize. Add roasted potatoes, salt, pepper, and whole grain mustard. Cook until heated through and a creamy consistency is achieved (May need to add a little water or stock to achieve creamy consistency. Watch your heat). Spoon potatoes over sauerkraut. Place hot glazed pork over potatoes. In a small mixing bowl, combine carrots, salt, pepper, apples, olive oil to coat and about 3 fluid ounces of your warm cider reduction. Mix until all ingredients are coated evenly. Place apple slaw over glazed pork. Garnish plate with remaining cider reduction.

Recipe Provided by: Chef Dan Calve Nola, Pittsburgh, PA

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Lobster Fra Diavolo INGREDIENTS:

PREPARATION:

1 8 oz. Lobster Tail cut into medallions 1 oz. Olive Oil 2 oz. Thin Sliced Banana Peppers 3 oz. Sliced Mushrooms 1 oz. Chopped Green Onion Salt and Pepper 2 oz. White Wine 8 oz. Tomato Basil Sauce Your Favorite Pasta (Linguini, Spaghetti, Parpadella)

Sautee the lobster tail in olive oil over medium heat. Add the hot peppers, mushrooms and green onion. Cook 3 minutes. Deglaze the pan with white wine and add the Tomato Basil Sauce. Simmer until the lobster is cooked through. Toss with pasta and serve.

Recipe Provided by: Chef Joseph Ross JG’s Tarentum Station Grille, Tarentum, PA

Nola on the Square Dan Calve – Executive Chef Dan is 31 years old and was born and raised in Eastern Pennsylvania. He’s been working in the food and beverage industry since he was seventeen. It was those early days when he inspired to be a chef. He worked in Denver and Manhattan to learn different cuisine and to hone his skills. His first Sous Chef position was with Yves Carreau’s restaurant group. He has worked in three of his restaurants being promoted to Executive Chef at Nola. “I enjoy my work, and I’m excited to continue to grow with our company. Can’t wait to see what our next concept will be. Can it get any better than this?”

Sonoma Grill Jason Huzzard – Executive Chef Chef Jason graduated from Pennsylvania Culinary Institute in his native Pittsburgh before moving to Boulder, Colorado for eight years. There, he explored the diverse indigenous culinary culture and achieved his first Chef position. After moving back to Pittsburgh, he continued to refine his skills at several esteemed restaurants in the city. He started at Sonoma Grille in 2008, and eventually earned the title, Executive Chef. He has helped to cultivate the Farm to Table concept at Sonoma, and his focus continues to be on fresh, local, and sustainable foods. He says, “Sourcing food from local farmers brings a sense of community back to the culinary world.”

JG’s Tarentum Station Grille Joseph Ross – Executive Chef Chef Joe is a native Pittsburgher originally from the Penn Hills and later the Natrona Heights communities. He accredits his strong culinary passion to several great Chef Mentors he has had over the years during his culinary training, especially those at the Eastwood Inn and the Pittsburgh Press Club. Overall Joe has been the Executive Chef at JG’s Tarentum Station Grille for thirteen cumulative years. Joe specializes in all cuisines but prefers a Mediterranean dish with an Italian concentration. His love for food and the culinary arts has been a stable and enthusiastic presence at the restaurant.

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Chef Sean Davies says that there is no better way to bring in the New Year than with this incredibly unique bottle of Champagne. It is extraordinarily complex and full-bodied with a racy fruit character that has a creamy texture with a silky finish.

The bottle is a show stopper! 2006 marked the unveiling of Armand de Brignac in a stunning gold bottle originally developed by Cattier. The labels of each bottle are made from real pewter, polished and applied by hand. The packaging is as eloquent as its taste! Celebrity comes to Pittsburgh! It’s not uncommon to see the Hollywood stars enjoying a bottle of “Ace of Spades” in a Las Vegas nightclub... now you too can celebrate with the hottest bottle of Champagne in the country at The Original Fish. Chef Sean looks forward to cooking your favorite meals as you celebrate the Holidays! Available at:

Ibiza Armand Colarusso – Executive Chef Armand grew up in Mahopac, New York. He discovered his passion for food in high school and further developed his skills here in Pittsburgh at Pennsylvania Culinary, which he graduated from in 1998. He worked at the Hyatt Regency at the Orlando International Airport and Greenwich, Connecticut. He also spent time working at the prestigious Abigail Kirsch Catering Company in New York. His family brought him back to Pittsburgh and Ibiza. He’s been working at this Award-Winning restaurant since 2007. “I love the people and friendly atmosphere at Ibiza. It’s fun creating a different cuisine with an Asian Flair.”

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Cioppino Greg Alauzen – Executive Chef Heading the creative team at Cioppino Restaurant and Cigar Bar is Executive Chef Greg Alauzen. He was formerly the Executive Chef of the Steelhead Grill and nationally lauded for placing Pittsburgh on the dining map. He’s a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, in Hyde Park, NY and alumna to several high profile New York restaurants, including Aureole in Manhattan. Alauzen’s work has been praised in Esquire, Pittsburgh Magazine, The Wall Street Journal and the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. Chef Alauzen’s menu draws from the Italian tradition of seasonally prepared dishes featuring local ingredients. His unique approach to food is creating quite a buzz in Pittsburgh.

Paris 66 Larry Laffont – Executive Chef Although Chef Larry Laffont is not a native Pittsburgher, his decade-long, award winning career as chef here sure makes him right at home. He started his career in Bordeaux, France where his classical French training began. Since moving to Pittsburgh in 1998 Chef Laffont has won numerous awards at the restaurants where he was Executive Chef; 1998 – Le Perroquet (Best New Chef and Best French Rest.), 2002 – Osteria Italian Tapas (Best Restaurant), 2003 – Mallorca (Best Spanish), and 2005 – Ibiza (Best Tappas). In January 2011, Larry brought his award-winning talents to Paris 66. It is no surprise that in his first year as Chef, Paris 66 was awarded Pittsburgh’s #1 Best French and #3 Best Brunch.

At Paris 66, Chef Larry Laffont wanted to choose a sparkling wine that is as economical as it was flavorful. Consistency and quality were carefully monitored to create the very fine bubbles in this pleasant wine. The dosage has been perfected to make this a clean, fruity, but dry sparkling wine of extraordinary quality at a very attractive price.

Available at:

The wine is pale gold with delicate floral aromas. The taste is very crisp and clean with ripe melon flavors. This is an excellent value for the price and is served “by the glass” at Paris 66. You can come enjoy the holidays with this pleasant sparkling wine while not having to break the bank! You simply can’t go wrong with this pleasant wine. This pairs well with almost anything or can be served as an aperitif. Cheers!

Chef Greg Alauzen chose a true classic and fantastic Champagne to feature this issue. The cold, frostless winter of 1999, coupled with a moderate spring and cool August, were perfect weather conditions that resulted in an excellent harvest for this Champagne. The bouquet offers hints of floral, fruits and a touch of honey, apricot and vanilla. The palate is crisp and clean with a touch of almonds that gives it a nutty finish. It is light and elegant and has a surprisingly long finish. This Champagne was awarded 92 Points from the Wine Spectator and you can enjoy it at Cioppino while celebrating the holidays!

Available at:

’Tis the season at Ibiza!!! This time of year is all about celebration! They offer something quite unique at Ibiza. Stop by for the Holidays and enjoy a “Flight” of Sparkling Wines. For $20 you can experience four different, enjoyable and unique sparkling wines. What better way to enjoy time with friends and family while enjoying a nice variety of sparkling wines. Better yet, bring in the New Year with an enjoyable evening at Ibiza while enjoying your “Flight.” Chef Armand Colarusso and the entire staff at Ibiza wish you and your family a wonderful Holiday Season and they look forward to you making them part of your Holiday Celebration! Available at:

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JG’s Tarentum Station Grille, located in a fully renovated Pennsylvania Railroad train station in Tarentum, is a unique destination for continental cuisine. For a special occasion, or just a relaxing night out in an unexpected setting, JG’s offers the right ambiance, menu and wine considerations to make for an unforgettable experience. The upstairs, once used as the conductors’ office is now a cozy dining area that may also be reserved for private parties. Call to reserve your upcoming event out or special event today.

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Yves Carreau has done it again! Pittsburgh’s hottest new restaurant is Nola on the Square. This new concept screams New Orleans with his Jazz Brasserie. It is located in the newly renovated Market Square. A breathtaking transformation of the storied 1902 Landmark Tavern, a Nouveau Creole menu featuring Bourbon Street cocktails, live jazz and blues music at least twice a week. If you’ve not experienced this “Big Easy” vibe you’re in for a surprise.

101 Station Drive Tarentum, PA 15084 724-226-3301 www.jgstation.com Hours: Monday – Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday - 11am-10pm, Saturday 5pm-10pm Closed Sunday.

24 Market Street Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-471-9100 www.nolaonthesquare.com Hours: Monday – Saturday, Lunch 11am-3pm, Dinner 5pm-11pm

If you looking for the finest Fish and Seafood in downtown Pittsburgh – you’ve found it! This is a wonderful restaurant with a fun atmosphere. If you are a wine lover they have a Winekeeper that keeps wines fresh as the moment they were opened. This system allows the restaurant to offer fifty-two wines by the glass. This restaurant is a “must visit!”

Welcome to a West Coast kitchen and wine bar, where food and wine are celebrated everyday. Sonoma is a sophisticated, casual restaurant with an airy dining room displaying vivid colors and a warm atmosphere. It has an international cuisine with a California twist. Each dish highlights local, organic or sustainable food in the peak of their season.

1000 Penn Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15222 412-227-3657 www.theoriginalfishmarket.com Hours: Monday -Friday 11am-1pm, Saturday and Sunday 4pm-1pm

647 Penn Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-697-1336 www.thesonomagrille.com Hours: Lunch Daily 11am-3pm, Dinner 5pm-11pm

Fred and Lori might be the nicest couple that own a restaurant...period! Paris 66 is an ambient eatery focused on “everyday French cuisine” in a traditional bistro-style setting. Paris 66 is both a crêperie and bistro. Coming Soon! French Pastry Chef, David Piquard is arriving June 15th. He is bringing his award winning recipes straight from France. We don’t know about you...but we can’t wait!

Located in a building dating back to 1906 that was originally a First National Bank. You’ll find a quaint historic restaurant in the heart of Elizabeth, PA’s business district. The restaurant is only a few hundred yards off of the Elizabeth bridge exit. The lower level is open on the weekends and features a wood-burning fireplace.

You start with a grand looking space in the heart of Pittsburgh’s cultural district and dress it up with a warm South Beach Art Deco interior. Season with exciting Nuevo Latino Cuisine and colorful Mojito cocktails. Add a dash of Cuban artwork and mix vigorously with searing hot salsa rhythms. Welcome to Seviche! Tapas and fun at its best!

6018 Penn Circle South Pittsburgh, PA 15206 412-404-8166 www.paris66bistro.com Hours: Monday – Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday – Saturday 11am-11pm, Sunday Brunch 10am-3pm

201 South Second Avenue Elizabeth, PA 15037 412-384-3909 www.rockwellsredlion.com Hours: Monday – Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm

930 Penn Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-697-3120 www.seviche.com Hours: Monday – Thursday 5pm-12am, Friday and Saturday 5pm-1am

At this award-winning restaurant, they offer over 45 tapas from all around the world. As the seasons change, so does the dining experience. The seasonal menus showcase the freshest seafood, meat, vegetables and fruits you’ll find anywhere. You’ll be delighted by the flavors of European and South American regional cuisine.

Great location, incredible food, magnificent ambiance, fantastic bar and service offering an eclectic dining experience perfect for any occasion is what you’ll find at Cioppino. The separate Cigar Bar is a great place to unwind after dinner or a great place to meet for a drink. The “Tuscan-Inspired” menu features their namesake dish Cioppino, chophouse fare and various incredibly fresh fish features.

2224 E. Carson Street Pittsburgh, PA 15203 412-325-2227 www.ibizatapasrestaurant.com Hours: Monday – Thursday 4pm-1am, Friday – Saturday 4pm-2am Closed Sunday

2350 Railroad Street At The Cork Factory Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-281-6593 www.cioppinoofpittsburgh.com Monday – Saturday 5pm-11pm DHL

DHL Gallery: By Valentine J. Brkich

Guatemalan Ruins | encaustic and mixed media on cradled wood | 8" x 10"

The one thing that really jumps out at you when you see Eva Trout’s art is color. It’s powerful. It’s vivid. It’s warm and bright and striking in how it grabs your attention and won’t let go.

Her pieces are distinctive yet bring to mind her numerous influences. In some you hear the echoes of Picasso. Others are more Rothko-esque.At one moment you’re in Africa, the next you’re an ocean away in Central America.

Though primarily a painter, Trout works with varieties of media and enjoys experimenting by combining mixed media and paint to evoke a feeling of discovery in the textures, colors and marks within her work. “I pursue to express a vivid sense of hope through the art that I make,” she says.

Born in Johnstown, Pa., Trout now lives in Canonsburg with her husband, Scott, a mortgage specialist, and their two children, Jonah, 16, and Sophia, 12. She received a scholarship for and attended the Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Arts program, and she earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Temple University’s Tyler School of Art, where she studied painting, drawing and sculpture.

The vivid array of colors in Trout’s palette has been influenced by many factors, including the availability of computer-generated hues.

Windows | encaustic on cradled wood | 20" x 16"

“Color is one of the most natural languages that communicates spiritual dimensions without the necessity of literal interpretation,” she says.

Heirloom | encaustic and mixed media on cradled wood | 8" x 8"

For Trout, her art reflects a oneness with her Creator and the spiritual and natural world around her. As she says on her website: “Creativity itself is a divine branding on human beings, linking our image to the likeness of a Creator.”

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The colors she chooses also reflect her fascination with Central American culture, which grew out of the mission work she and her husband have done over the years. For over two decades, she has worked professionally as an artist and art teacher, and has coordinated creative ministries in countries around the world including Guatemala, Finland, Amsterdam, the former U.S.S.R. and Canada. A focus of her mission trips has been youth who live in poverty.

“In my twenties, my focus was teaching art to youth and children. I loved teaching kids.

Photosynthesis | encaustic and mixed media on cradled wood | 18" x 14"

Children are usually expressive without reserve,” says Trout. “Now though, as I grow older, I find that my same desire to bring healing and life to broken children, applies to any age. People tend to stop growing at points of life in which they harbored unforgiveness or

Just Beyond | encaustic and mixed media on cradled wood | 8" x 10"

Collision | Encaustic on cradled wood | 12" x 16"

quote from Galatians,” she says.“Guatemala has a very high ratio of children in crisis among its population. God’s heart is in Guatemala. If you embrace any of the children at an orphanage there, you will experience the love of Jesus and you will leave more full than when you came.” She says.

Light Breaks | encaustic on cradled wood | 36" x 24"

Seascape | encaustic on wood panel | 32" x 40"

fear. Many adults have inhibited, young souls. Power to forgive and to release comes from being forgiven and released. That is from God and for all. Art, or creative expression plays a vital part in experiencing grace...for any age.”

From 2007 to 2010, she and her husband led 3 mission trips to Guatemala where they directed creative ministry sessions with impoverished children.

On each of those trips, the mission teams painted murals designed by Trout on the walls of old school buildings. “Each mural was designed to bring continual encouragement. One of the murals we did was of doves in flight and on it was written ‘Because we are sons, God has put the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, by which we cry out ‘Abba Father’ It is a

While she was in the town of Antigua in Guatemala,Trout photographed the ruins of an old church using encaustic, a wax-based paint she makes herself by mixing beeswax with Damar varnish, along with various pigments or oil paint. Since then she has been incorporating images of churches in Canonsburg and throughout southwestern Pennsylvania into her encaustic and mixed media work.

“Churches are a beautiful, architectural symbol (especially in Pittsburgh) of people. To me, the structures simply represent people in a general sense – people who profess to believe in the eternal, almighty God,” says Trout. “They (the church buildings) are stoic, strong structures that ironically will perish. If people elect to identify their lives purely on the basis of earthly ideals, they too will perish. My encaustic church depictions deal with contrasts of things eternal and things temporal.”

Eva and her husband are the directors of missions at Covenant Church of Pittsburgh. There, she has created the campaign, “Covenant Waters Africa.” It’s purpose is to raise funds and faith to build essential water wells in African villages, and to encourage people to pray for those villages. Recenly, the people of her church gave a generous amount of money to build two wells in South Sudan. Eva hopes to go there in 2012 to witness the reception of the wells and also to minister inner healing and teach art.

Wired | encaustic and mixed media on cradled wood | 8" x 10"

Trout has been a member of the Pittsburgh Society of Artists for four years, where she has served as exhibitions Chairwoman in 2010, writing proposals for exhibitions and submitting them to local galleries. She is also a member of the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh and Christians in the Visual Arts, as well as StoneWorks: A Global Arts Partnership. This past year she has exhibited her work in various shows and galleries across the region including, the PSA Annual Members Exhibit (January 2011) at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh; the “Black & White” exhibition (March 2011) at the Fein Art Gallery; “Scapes” Hacienda Furniture Art Exhibit (April 2011) at Hacienda Contemporary Furniture in the Cork Factory. Currently, you can see her solo exhibition, “Color Full” which is on display and available for purchase at Hacenda Contemporary Furniture on 2350 Railroad Street. The exhibit runs until January 30, 2012. | DHL For more information on Trout and to view her work, visit evatrout.com You can also follow her on Twitter at @evatrout DHL

By Renee Butor

While there are many theories as to the origin of the Australian Shepherd, the breed as we know it today developed exclusively in the United States.

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The Australian Shepherd was given its name because of their association with the Basque sheepherders who came to the United States from Australia in the 1800’s. The Aussie rose rapidly in popularity with the boom of western riding after World War II, becoming known to the general public via rodeos, horse shows, movies and television. Their inherent versatility and trainability made them useful on American farms and ranches.The American stockmen continued the development of the breed, maintaining the versatility, keen intelligence, strong herding instinct and eye-catching appearance. The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, medium-sized dog of strong herding and guardian instincts. They are also delightful and loyal companions and great family dogs.They love to be part of the daily hustle and bustle, and enjoy riding in the vehicle just to be with their beloved master. As farm dogs, they diligently carry out their responsibilities, be it bringing in the stock

or finding the stray one that got tangled in the brush. They are easily trained, easily housebroken, because they are intelligent and eager to please.

Aussies have been used as seeing-eye dogs, as utility dogs to the physically handicapped, hearing aid dogs, police and narcotics dogs, and search and rescue dogs. In the northern areas they have also been used as sled dogs. Many go with their masters as volunteers to children’s homes and nursing homes to do therapy work.Truly, the Australian Shepherd is a highly versatile dog.

“Aussies” (as they are lovingly nicknamed) are very active dogs that need a great deal of exercise on a daily basis to prevent them from becoming bored or frustrated and consequently developing destructive habits. Because of their high energy level, combined with high intelligence, Aussies need to be given a “job” to perform, be it shepherding the children, protecting the house, herding livestock or competing in dog events.

Although many believe the Abyssinian to be direct descendent of the sacred cat of Egypt, the exact origin of the breed is obscure. Certainly, there is a strong resemblance between the modern Abyssinian and the cat depicted in ancient Egypt.

Their bronzes and paintings feature agouti coated cats also found buried in the tombs, with the lithe long body large ears and long tail.The Abyssinian shape and distinctive coat however also bears a striking similarly to the African Wild cats. The first registration of the breed appeared in English studbooks in 1896. The earliest identifiable Abyssinian can be found in the Leiden Museum in Holland. The label reads “domestica India,” indicating the origin to the same area. More recent studies have indicated the coast of Indian Ocean between Singapore and Ceylon to be the “homeland“ of the Abyssinian Tabby colour pattern - Abyssinians are one of the oldest breeds and they are possibly the closest to a natural breed of all the purebred cats in the world.

The Abyssinian is an affectionate intelligent cat, very people orientated, extremely active and a cat that thrives on interaction and play. They are not constant lap cats, rather, they need to know what you are doing; like to help you make a telephone call; read your newspaper or make your bed, in fact

they insist on being included in all family activities as a right. Whatever it is, an Abyssinian has to be totally involved. Abyssinians are not always ideal for every one so if this higher level of activity will annoy you then a quieter breed should be sort.

Abyssinians make good family pets but tend to bond with Adults and older children rather than young toddlers. Abyssinians are not vocal, having a small bell like voice to communicate.They prefer and seek higher places to sit such as backs of chairs, refrigerators and scratching poles. They get on very well with dogs and will quickly teach the dog who is the boss. Abyssinians can be taught to fetch and retrieve small objects. Once a relationship is formed there is no breed more loyal than an Abyssinian. Expect to be greeted with enthusiasm and devote 10-15 minutes attention to your Abyssinian on your homecoming. Being “people” cats, they can become very lonely if left for long periods of time alone so it’s often wise to have two as company for each other.

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A nationwide survey of more than 5,000 veterinary hospitals was recently completed by the American Heartworm Society (AHS) to gauge the incidence of heartworm disease in the United States. The sad news: While effective and affordable heartworm preventives for dogs and cats have been available for decades, the 2010 AHS survey documented heartworm in each of the contiguous United States and Hawaii - as well as in almost every county and parish.

If you’re a pet owner, here are five facts you should know about heartworm disease:

1. Blame the mosquito.

Pets don’t infect each other, they require a go-between: the mosquito. More than 20 species of mosquitoes are known to spread heartworm, and they can carry the infected larvae for miles, even transmitting the disease from wild animals (such as coyotes) to pets. And while mosquito repellents are a good idea for reducing mosquito numbers, they don’t take the place of monthly heartworm preventives. All it takes is for one infected mosquito to bite your dog or cat, and even the best mosquito repellent won’t provide adequate heartworm protection.

2. Your pet can’t escape the threat of heartworm disease.

Heartworm incidence has been documented in all 50 states. That’s why the American Heartworm Society guidelines recommend that all U.S. pets be given heartworm preventive on a monthly basis, and dogs be tested annually for heartworm.

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3. Cats get heartworm disease, too.

Dogs are more susceptible than cats, but cats can become seriously ill from just a few worms. The bottom line: if you live in an area where heartworm disease in dogs is prevalent, your cat should get preventive medication, too.

4. Pets need more than “fair-weather” friends.

While spring is when many pets are tested for heartworm, the American Heartworm Society recommends that pets be protected from this deadly parasite year-round. Between varying weather conditions, warm microclimates that form protective pockets where mosquitoes can survive and frequent travel with pets, limiting heartworm protection to warm-weather months can be a risky proposition.

5. Prevention beats the cure any day.

Dogs with heartworm disease can and should be treated, but the cost is significant; treating a dog can cost more than $1,000 and dogs need careful monitoring and cage confinement for a month or more. Meanwhile, there is no effective medication for treating cats with heartworm disease. The good news: prevention, which is available for both dogs and cats, is a fraction of the cost of treatment and is much easier on your pet.

Only a veterinarian can ensure your pet is getting optimal protection from heartworm. For more information, talk to your veterinarian or visit www.heartwormsociety.org.

(ARA) - Allergies no longer have to prevent pet ownership. By taking a few simple precautionary steps, it is possible to comfortably live with both pets and allergies. Here are a few helpful tips:

Shut the door.

Keep cats or dogs from your bedroom - and not just when you are sleeping. If you keep the door closed, it will prevent cat or dog hair from drifting in during the day. This also applies to a guest room if you are hosting a guest with allergies.

Keep pets off the furniture.

You can do this by placing a plastic cover on the furniture or by placing pieces of aluminum foil on areas where pets settle. They find the noise disturbing. Or you can try orange peel; cats dislike the smell.

Ditch the carpets.

Pet hair tends to stick to carpets, especially soft, shaggy carpet. Try area rugs on tile or wood floors. They are convenient because they are portable and usually machine washable.

Bathe pets.

Use an allergen-reducing shampoo and clean dogs at least twice a week.

Clean the air.

Remove irritants with an air cleaner that has a HEPA filter.

Vacuum and dust frequently.

Use a vacuum designed especially for pet owners.These include features such as an odorabsorbing filter and powerful suction for pet hair, while still retaining the dust and dirt that can trigger allergies and asthma. The recently-introduced Cat & Dog vacuum, by Miele, the creators of the first HEPA-certified vacuum cleaner, is built with a sealed system designed to prevent dirt, dust and allergens from escaping back into the air. The vacuum provides the powerful suction and airflow necessary to remove stubborn pet hair and includes a versatile brush roller that automatically adjusts when transitioning from hardwood to carpet.

For more information about Miele, visit www.mieleusa.com or call (800) 843-7231.

Approximately 10 percent of Americans are allergic to dogs.

With reactions ranging from itchy eyes to more serious complications such as asthma attacks or constricted breathing.While no dog is 100 percent hypoallergenic, there are many breeds with consistent and predictable coats the American Kennel Club® (AKC) suggests for allergy sufferers.These breeds have non-shedding coats, which produce less dander (it’s the skin dander that is attached to pet hair which causes most pet allergies in humans). Hypoallergenic canine candidates include:

• Bedlington Terrier • Bichon Frise • Chinese Crested • Irish Water Spaniel • Kerry Blue Terrier • Maltese • Poodles (Toy, Miniature or Standard) • Portuguese Water Dog • Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard or Giant) • Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier • Xoloitzcuintli

“These breeds may be just what the doctor ordered for people with allergies,” says Lisa Peterson, spokesperson for the American Kennel Club. “There are a variety of sizes, energy levels and temperaments, yet all are well-established in their coat type. Dogs that are AKC registered have pedigrees reaching back decades, if not a century, and so the characteristics that make them better companions for allergy suffers are fixed through decades of breeding for consistent type.” | DHL

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Pittsburgh Film Office By Valentine J. Brkich

Pittsburgh’s had a lot of nicknames over the years: The Steel City, The Smoky City, The City of Champions, The City of Bridges, The Gateway to the West. How about trying this one on for size: The Hollywood of the East. That’s right, the city that’s always been known for its steel and its tough-as-steel sports teams has now become a real hotspot for the movie-making industry. If you’re into movies, it’s really a great time to be a Yinzer. Continued on next page DHL

n the last five years alone, over 40 feature film and television productions have been completed in The ‘Burgh, including five this year: “Elixir” (working title), an ABC Family television musical; “One Shot”, a crime thriller directed by Christopher McQuarrie and starring Tom Cruise; “The Dark Knight Rises”, starring Christian Bale and Gary Oldman; “The Perks of Being a Wallflower”, starring Emma Watson of “Harry Potter” fame, “Steel Town”, a Walden Media production; and “Locke & Key” a TV pilot for Fox.

The year 2010 also saw a number of productions film here including “Abduction”, starring Taylor Lautner of the “Twilight” series; “I Am Number Four,” starring Alex Pettyfer and Dianna Agron. In 2009 Denzel Washington was in town to film the runaway train thriller “Unstoppable.” And in 2008, Pittsburgh really got a chance to shine in the romantic comedy “She’s Out of My League”, starring Jay Baruchel.

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Dawn Keezer – Director of the Pittsburgh Film Office

So what is it that has made Pittsburgh such a hotspot for the movie and TV industries? “Southwestern PA is open for business,” says Dawn Keezer, director of the Pittsburgh Film Office (pghfilm.org), located downtown in the Century Building on 7th Street. “We have an extremely talented crew, a great diversity of locations, and a film tax credit program that is considered one of the best in the country. Our region is a great place to shoot and we are thrilled that over $500 million dollars has been spent in southwestern PA’s economy.”

As it turns out, Pittsburgh is the perfect location for all types of production, from large-scale, big-budget, feature films to single-video-camera industrials. Filmmakers can find the “look” they want, along with the all the personnel and vital production resources they need to make it happen. As a result, Pittsburgh serves as a one-stop shop for the moviemaking industry. Pittsburgh is also popular for its colorful diversity. Within a half-hour drive of downtown, you can find historic neighborhoods, country estates, and contemporary suburbs, each of which provides different options for movie settings. In addition, the city’s varied architecture, modern skyscrapers, industrial sites, and charming small towns provide even more options for filming locations. One of the great things about filming in Pittsburgh is that filmmakers are able to take advantage of its diverse locations in order to make moviegoers believe they’re watching scenes filmed in other cities and states. In recent years, Pittsburgh locations have been filmed as cities like New York City, Washington, D.C., Detroit, as well as states like Indiana and Maine. “That’s another reason why filmmakers are drawn to the area,” says Keezer. “Pittsburgh has a unique, chameleon-like ability that allows it to become other cities or areas, which enables filmmakers to save on production costs.”

As it turns out, Pittsburgh has a lot of things that the movie makers like. According to iatse489.org, the website of the Motion Picture Studio Production Technicians, Local 489 of the I.A.T.S.E., the city’s advantages include “a favorable union climate, diversity of film locations, a broad and well trained crew base, adequate film production support service companies and an effective film office.” Also according to iatse489.org, the film industry has brought in over $280 million to southwestern Pennsylvania since 2007; in 2010 alone the impact on the local economy was over $100 million. Film production has also been very good for the local hotel industry, accounting for nearly 24,000 hotel room nights in 2010. In fact, revenue from hotel stays due to film production is up over 800% since 2005.

attracted more than one hundred feature films and television productions to southwestern Pennsylvania, which in turn has generated approximately $578 million for the region.

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IATSE Local 489 also reports that their membership has more than doubled in the past six years. Furthermore, various local production companies such as Smithfield Street Productions, have been popping up and creating new jobs, and the Community College of Allegheny County has even started a training program for industry-related jobs. A lot of this success has to do with the work of the Pittsburgh Film Office (PFO), which works hard to market the region as a great location for movie, television and commercial productions. Since its inception in 1990, the PFO has

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The PFO provides film and TV production companies with valuable information on the region, including where to find the best locations, vendors, and crew. It also helps coordinate government and business offices that are vital in supporting a production. In addition, the PFO provides valuable assistance to our own homegrown filmmakers throughout the region. “Our mission is to attract film production to the southwestern Pennsylvania region and, in turn, benefit the regional economy,” says Keezer. “Every time we are featured on the big or small screen, national audiences get another opportunity to see the beauty of our hometown.” The PFO’s primary function is to serve as an economic generator for the greater southwestern Pennsylvania region by attracting and supporting film, television, and related media industry projects.

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Both locally and nationally, it serves as a conduit for information ranging from location photographs and vendor and crew listings, to general regional information. In addition, the PFO offers education and outreach programs throughout the region to inform and educate students and the community about various opportunities. It does this through school visits, information brochures and intern programs. On its website, the PFO lists casting calls, audition announcements, and job opportunities under its Hotline section, which is updated weekly or as new information becomes available. Anyone with questions about local casting agencies is encouraged to contact the Pittsburgh Film Office at 412-261-2744. For full-time college students, every semester the PFO offers unpaid internships relating to the marketing and

administrative aspects of the film industry. In order to qualify, students must be able to give two or three days to the office, totaling 12-15 hours each week. Interns work on administrative projects, maintain locations photo files, research trade publications, and help the office update files for the southwestern Pennsylvania region. The application for the spring term is December 15; for the summer term, it’s May 1. Visit pghfilm.org for more information. The Pittsburgh Film Office also hosts an annual Academy Awards fundraiser called “Lights! Glamour! Action!”, which celebrates the national and local film industry achievements. The 12th annual event is presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and will take place on Sunday, Feb, 26, 2012, at Heinz Field. During the benefit, attendees will have the opportunity to film their versions of

favorite movie moments at a pre-party celebration on Friday, January 27, at J. Verno Studios. The performances will premiere on the big screen and awards will be presented to the best actor and actress. Guests will enjoy a red carpet entrance, champagne reception, the live telecast of the 2012 Oscars® on the Big Screen, gourmet food stations, fashion presentations, a silent auction, and more. Last year more than 900 attendees watched the Oscars® in 3D! “Lights! Glamour! Action!” also offers various sponsorship opportunities at different levels and includes signage at all events, on-site marketing opportunities, tickets to the gala, and much more. Interested parties can call 412-261-2744 or email info@pghfilm.org for more information.

Pittsburgh may never take Hollywood’s place as the movie-making capital of the world. But it’s certainly becoming the film industry’s location of choice in the eastern half of the United States. And thanks to the Pittsburgh Film Office, moviegoers will continue to discover the natural beauty that Pittsburghers have grown to know and love. | DHL

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By Pamela Palongue

f you drive north on 28 for about 30 minutes and then make a couple of questionable turns that seemingly lead to nowhere, you will reach an area where the intense hills of Pittsburgh smooth out into gentle rolling hills with waving stocks of corn. And in the midst of this giant cornfield, there is a clearing that opens up into a dreamy place called Saxonburg—a charming hamlet with just over 1600 contented residents, where life moves just a bit slower and the traffic is a little bit lighter.

Despite its small size, people know how to live well in this out-of-the-way haven, and Pittsburghers sometimes drop by to soak up some of the calm. Not surprisingly, this idyllic setting has frequently been chosen as a wedding destination. It is easily accessible to Pittsburgh, and yet it seems a million miles away. During the summer months,

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it’s a familiar sight to see vows being read at the white Victorian gazebo in Roebling Park. An unexpected delight is the Hotel Saxonburg, a spot for fine dining and a guest house. Built in 1832, the restaurant still retains its original 19th century coppertopped bar. Their menu offers discerning patrons classic dishes such as filet mignon, steamed mussels, and lobster bisque. Vegans can dine on capellini marinara, while serious carnivores can dive right into the New Zealand rack of lamb. The five guestrooms are furnished with period décor and create a romantic milieu, should a traveler decide to stay the night. Besides fine dining, Saxonburg has some more casual choices for variety, including Kelly’s Family Restaurant, which is popular with the locals and offers downhome fare at modest prices. A popular bed and breakfast is The Mainstay, located right in the heart of the

historic district. It features themed rooms with a garden patio and a library. If you don’t mind a two-mile drive into the country, Armstrong Farms Bed and Breakfast is a fully operational, 200-year-old cattle ranch with an amazing array of lodging choices. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or making your home in Saxonburg, there are nearby diversions for every level of activity. Fantastic shopping venues await with lots of unique stores, such as The Stillroom, where you’ll find fine teas and everything

the history of the founding of Saxonburg by two Prussian-German immigrants to the mid-20th century, and it features many interesting artifacts. For more history, you can tour the living museum of the Saxonburg streets by doing a walking tour of the John Roebling House and Shop and the historic Saxonburg Memorial United Presbyterian Church (originally the German Evangelical Church), which sits imposingly at the head of Main Street. Services are held every Sunday at 8 a.m. It is also available to rent for weddings if you’re so inclined. One of the area’s more unique religious facilities is the Nativity of the Theotokos, a Greek Orthodox Monastery for women.

you need to brew them. The Gray Wolf Gallery features wildlife art, and The Chandlery sells everything from tableware to bath soap. Saxon Golf Course is a public course that was given a 3-star rating by Golf Digest. There are also many nearby stables for the horse enthusiast. If you’re just looking to relax, the Yoma Room offers reiki, massages, and yoga to smooth a ruffled spirit. For a more laid-back experience, The Saxonburg Museum is a good place to spend the afternoon. Its nine rooms detail

For a different sort of spiritual experience, visit the Winfield Winery, located just 10 minutes away in Cabot, where you can sample their 30 different wines in their comfortable, rustic atmosphere.

festival has won awards for being one of the best in the nation. It draws artists, musicians, 18th century dancers, and lots of tourists. Native Americans and uniformed Revolutionary War soldiers stage battle reenactments and living history displays as well. Despite Saxonburg’s historic reputation, there are plenty of new-construction homes for incoming residents in a variety of price ranges. The location makes it an attractive option for those working in Pittsburgh’s North Side or Butler, Pa. Saxonburg is a special place, whether experienced as a weekend or a new way of life. If you would like more information on Saxonburg’s historic places or their many festivals, visit their website at www. saxonburgpa.com. | DHL

For a small town, Saxonburg can celebrate like nobody’s business. Some of their events include an annual Memorial Day parade, a firemen’s carnival in June, a big car cruise in July, and an arts festival in September. Another huge event in September is Penn’s Colony Village. This Colonial American DHL

cocktails at home:

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hangai Punch

INGREDIENTS: • 8 cups Hot tea • 2 cups lemon juice • 16 oz. curaçao • 16 oz. dark rum • 1-1/2 oz. orgeat syrup

Makes Approximately 30 servings.

• One 750-ml. bottle cognac • 1 oz. orange flower water • Cinnamon stick • Lemon peel • Orange peel

Mix all ingredients (except orange/lemon peels and cinnamon sticks), in the flaming pan of a chafing dish over direct heat and bring to simmering. Serve hot in mugs. Garnish with orange and lemon peels and add a cinnamon stick. Makes over 30 servings.

ranberry Orange Tea

INGREDIENTS: • 7 oz. Cranberry Herbal Tea • 1/2 oz. Cointreau • Orange slices halved

elon Lemon Tea

INGREDIENTS: • 5 oz. Orange Pekoe tea • 1 oz. Melon liqueur • 1 oz. Orange liqueur • lemon juice to taste

Pour hot tea in the glass, and then pour in the Melon liqueur and Orange liqueur. Add lemon juice to taste. Garnish with a split lemon.

INGREDIENTS: • • 2-1/4 cups water • 1/3 cup mild or • medium-bodied honey • 1/4 cup turbinado sugar • 2 tablespoons sliced ginger • • 18 whole cloves • 18 whole allspice •

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 tablespoon Earl Grey (or Earl Green) whole tea leaves 1 750-ml bottle red table wine 1/3 cup dark rum

Place the water, honey, sugar, ginger, cloves, allspice and vanilla in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Boil for 5 minutes then remove from heat. Stir in the tea leaves and steep for 5 minutes. Strain the mixture into a bowl. Add the wine and rum. Serve immediately.

Makes 6 servings.

INGREDIENTS: • 16 mint leaves for garnish • 48 oz. boiling water • 1 teaspoon loose oolong • peppermint schnapps or lime juice to rim glass tea leaves • 2 teaspoons loose white • splenda or sugar to rim glass peppermint tea leaves • 12 oz. malibu rum

(1) Pour 1 teaspoon each white peppermint and oolong teas in a tea infuser. (2) Pour 6 oz. boiling water over tea leaves. Let steep 5 mins. (3) Pour tea into pitcher. Repeat 5 more times. (4) Add an additional teaspoon of white peppermint tea to the 5th cup. (5) Add the malibu rum into the pitcher. (6) Rim 6 glasses or cups with either peppermint schnapps or lime juice and splenda or sugar. (7) Tear mint leaves in half and place 4 halves in the bottom of each cup/glass. (8) Pour tea/rum mixture over the mint leaves. Serve.

oroccan Mint Tea

lueberry Tea

INGREDIENTS: • 1.5 oz. Orange Flavored Brandy • 1.5 oz. Amaretto • 1 Dash Simple Syrup • 1.5 oz. Orange Flavored Tea (Hot) • 1 Orange Peel

hristmas Eve Tea

hite Oolong Mojitea

Pour the tea and Cointreau into an 8 oz. footed coffee mug. Garnish with the orange slices and dried cranberries.

Although this recipe does not contain blueberries or blueberry flavoring, the name is derived from its fruity taste, which some compare to blueberries.

Add amaretto, orange flavored brandy and simple syrup into a rocks glass. Top up with orange flavored tea (hot). Garnish with orange.

INGREDIENTS: • Ice • 15 whole mint leaves • 2 cups pre-made sweetened iced tea

• 1 splash Roses lime juice • 1 cup vodka • Lime wedges or wheels, for garnish

Add ice and mint leaves to a cocktail shaker. Close shaker and shake a few times to bruise mint leaves. Add remaining ingredients and shake to combine. Pour into ice tea glass and garnish with lime wedge or wheel.

Please Drink Responsibly. DHL

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