Local Living Magazine Winter 2016

Dog Days

of Winter WEEKEND WINTER WONDERLAND GETAWAYS

SHOPPING CART ESSENTIALS FOR A HEALTHY NEW YEAR Volume 6, Issue 1 $4.99 US

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features

13 Winter Wonderland Getaways 34 Shopping Cart Essentials for a Healthy New Year

25

48 What Makes a Healthy Relationship?

64 what’s cooking

health & wellness

26 Fork 4-11 Cassoulet French Soul Food 38 Winter Recipes

56 A Zenful Practice to Inner Peace 59 The Latest in Valve Repair, Arrhythmia Management

home & entertaining

fashion & beauty

25 Finding Your Style

45 Tips on how not to Sacrifice Style for Warmth - Finding the Perfect Coat

law & fitness 11 A Women’s Financial Reality 21 Employment Law Protections for Caregivers of Individuals with Alzheimer’s

6

Local Living Volume 6 | Issue 1

Go For It!

Life is too short wasting time on regrets. A New Year brings new promise and highlights another year past. Begin planning in earnest for a solid financial future. For creative financial strategies you need Qualified advice. Objective advice that is unique to your situation. Advice that offers you the information to make the critical decisions.

Your needs are unique.

So are our solutions.

Barron’s Top 1,000 Financial Advisors as listed in the February 18th 2013 edition.

Irvin W. Rosenzweig, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, CRPS®, AEP® President Securities offered through WFG Investments, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered through WFG advisory services, an SEC registered investment advisor.

480 E. Swedesford Road, Suite 120, Wayne, PA 19087 610.627.5921 • www.rzwealth.com Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

7

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Reprints & Back Issues High-quality reprints of articles are available, as well as entire previous issues. Make your request by calling (609) 938-1516 Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm EST. Local Living Magazine makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without permission from Local Living Magazine.

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Local Living Volume 6 | Issue 1

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publisher’s page

Love is our true destiny. We do not find the meaning of life by ourselves alone- we find it with another.

— Thomas Merton

F

or the most part, we all cherish a heartfelt desire to engage in a deeply meaningful relationship in our lifetime. We all know how hard it is to keep a relationship compatible enough to pass the test of time. Releasing the burden of personal emotional baggage frees

us all to build a more content relationship, one we may even consider perfect for us. Through meditation and increasing self-awareness we can come to see the essence of who we are as a perfect lovable being.

Opening ourselves up to receive and live such an enlightened relationship means taking off any judgment hat and seeing past shortcomings to behold a beloved’s true self, and whole-heartedly embracing time speant together. This allows real love to flow.

Valentine’s Day brings out the romantic in us all. It can give us insightful clues on creating a loving relationship with a special someone that will not only survive, but thrive. Nurturing the relationship is as important to a lasting love as the mutual attraction that sparked it all in the first place. Love needs to be cultivated daily and is always a work in progress—as we all are.

Sharing healthy foods is yet another way to support mutual well-being. Eating the right things can benefit your attitudes and romance. So go ahead and spoil yourself this Valentine’s Day with a little wine & chocolate and in the process enjoy the season of love!

With Love,

Karen A. Kovacs, Publisher

Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

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FINANCE

A Woman’s Financial Reality Your Financial Future Is Up to You ... and No One Else

by Rosemary Caligiuri, CASL®, RICP® President of Harvest Group Financial Services

W

omen are taking action to approach retirement with greater confidence. Some recent intriguing data indicates that women are planning their financial futures with some degree of pragmatism, but also with considerable motivation. One of the key motivations is receiving financial advice.

How much do you know about personal finance? The more knowledge you have, the more action you can take to define and pursue your financial goals and build retirement savings. You can also respond to a few financial realities common to women’s lives.

Where do you stand financially? Start by taking an inventory of your investments and savings accounts: their balances, their purposes. Then, take an inventory of income sources: yours, and those of your spouse or family if applicable.

Consider also your probable or possible income sources after you retire: Social Security and others.

This is a way to start seeing where you are financially in terms of your progress toward a financially stable retirement and your retirement income. It may also illuminate potential new directions for you: * The need to save or invest more (especially since parenting or care giving may interrupt your career and affect your earnings) * The need for greater income (negotiate for a raise!) or additional income sources down the road * Risks to income and savings (and the need to plan greater degrees of insulation from them)

Devoting even just an hour of attention to these matters may give you a clear look at your financial potential for tomorrow. If you don’t want to end up dependent on Social Security, then see that you have the financial education that will let you make major money decisions with confidence.

Study fundamentals of investing and read up on the basics of retirement and estate planning. Proceed from this step to the next: follow with another hour devoted to a chat with an experienced financial professional.

What you should look for in a financial advisor. Finding an advisor you can trust should not be difficult. You’ll want to be sure they have credentials such as RICP® (Retirement Income Certified Professional), CFP® (Certified Financial Planner), ChFC® (Chartered Financial Consultant), etc. that tells you they have the experience, knowledge and designations necessary to give you sound financial advice.

Securities and advisory services are offered through Centaurus Financial, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Supervisory Branch: 3902 State Street, Suite 101, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, 1.888.569.1982. Harvest Group Financial Services and Centaurus Financial are not affiliated.

Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

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Find Your Own Winter Wonderland Near or Far If you are craving a peaceful escape from it all but have no idea where that drive will take you, consider a nearby resort or bed and breakfast. There’s no shortage of charm in our region and you can find it to fit any budget. Maybe you are travelling here from far away, or you are expecting special guests and need overnight accommodations. Whatever your scenario, each of these outstanding locations are sure to provide the perfect backdrop for warm memories.

Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

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THE FAIRVILLE INN

Brandywine Valley, Pennsylvania

SKYTOP LODGE

Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania Experience the ultimate retreat by visiting one of the most esteemed lodges in the country—Skytop. This grand historic estate features the very best in accommodations, fine dining and limitless recreation including the new Adventure Center at Skytop. You and your family can explore 5,500 pristine acres of inspiring natural beauty while enjoying a range of seasonal activities. Choose from the adventurous—like clay shooting and downhill skiing—to the serene—like nature hikes and full spa services. No matter your age, personality or desire, Skytop Lodge can make your next trip an unforgettable experience.

The ultimate resort for Poconos vacations, Skytop is a charming blend of old world charm and character, timeless attention to detail, impeccable service, modern conveniences and amenities, and, of course, that signature sensation of complete and utter relaxation. Through the years the lodge has become more than just a Poconos vacation destination to its many devoted guests, many from families that have been attending for generations. What keeps them coming back? From summer adventures or autumn foliage, winter sports or spring flowers, the one thing that all Skytop lovers share is a sense of natural wonder.

Hiking was also given great emphasis from the very onset of Skytop’s development. Trails to all of Skytop’s scenic areas were laid out and maps were drawn to enable the lodge’s guests to visit “places of quiet beauty and restful charm.”

An abundance of private hiking trails on the resort’s 5500 acres affords an opportunity to view woodland wildflowers, migrating and nesting birds, reptiles and amphibians, and signs of many of the area’s exciting wildlife, including black bear, otter, porcupine, beaver, coyote, bobcat, and mink.

One Skytop | Skytop, PA. 18357 (855) 345-7759 | www.skytop.com 16

Local Living Volume 6 | Issue 1

The Fairville Inn offers elegant country accommodations in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Brandywine Valley.

The Inn is just minutes from world-class venues including Longwood Gardens, the Winterthur Estate, the Brandywine River (“Wyeth”) Museum, the Hagley Museum and Nemours Gardens.

The Inn’s 13 rooms and two suites are situated in three buildings: The Main House (circa 1826), the Carriage House, and the Springhouse. Each room is individually decorated and has its own special charm. All have a private bath, flat screen TV, telephone and complimentary wireless Internet service. Most rooms have a fireplace (in season) and private deck overlooking the gardens or meadow. Full breakfast — with a choice of three entrees together with a continental buffet — and afternon tea are, of course, included. The Innkeepers will attend to your needs, make reservations for you at an array of nearby fine dining choices, and can even arrange in-room individual or couples massages. You can also sample vintages from close by wineries.

Enjoy the Elegance!

Fairville Inn is a member of the Select Registry of Distinguished Inns of North America and the Diamond Collection of Inns, and earned the Trip Advisor 2012 Award of Excellence. In 2010, the Inn was voted “Most Romantic” in the mid-atlantic by the readers of Karen Brown’s Guides.

506 Kennett Pike (Rte. 52) | Chadds Ford, PA 19317 (610) 388-5900 | www.fairvilleinn.com

HAMANASSETT BED & BREAKFAST Brandywine Valley, Pennsylvania

SUMMER NITES Wildwood, New Jersey

The owners of Summer Nites, Sheila and Rick Brown, have taken a beautiful mid- 1900’s home and created a trip back to the 1950’s. Summer Nites has all of the modern amenities enjoyed at a new lodging while retaining and capturing the excitement and uniqueness of the early days of Rock-n-Roll. Located in a quiet residential area of North Wildwood, New Jersey, at the Jersey Shore, the bustling nightlife of both Wildwood and Anglesea are within one mile in either direction.

Dine in a unique boxcar diner complete with 1953 Seeburg Jukebox, neon lighting, diner booths and more. Dining on one of the outdoor decks is another option. Breakfast is served from the diner kitchen where you can look on as the cook prepares your breakfast. Afterwards, enjoy a stroll on the world famous beach and boardwalk only two blocks away. Bicycles are also available for a morning ride on the boardwalk and around town.

A pool table and game room with vintage pinball machines are available for those who care to step back to the good ol’ days. Soak in a hot tub or lounge in the sun on the deck.

Each room is air conditioned with separate, modern, individual climate controls. All rooms have private baths, some with Jacuzzi tubs, and each come complete with televisions, CD and VCR/DVD players. Guests can enjoy viewing, listening to, and reading the many interesting vintage and repro 1950s tapes, CDs and books featured in each room. Original memorabilia from the ‘50s is throughout.

Guests can choose from the following theme rooms: Elvis Suite, ‘60s Suite, Life’s a Beach Room, Marilyn Room, ‘50s Television Room, ‘50s Movie Room, and ‘50s Music Room; each is decorated with its own unique style.

Adequate off-street parking is provided for all quests.

(For the comfort and safety of our guests smoking is only permitted on the outdoor porches.)

Hamanassett is a grand 1856 English Country house situated on a seven-acre estate. Close to major attractions such as Longwood Gardens, Nemours, Brandywine River Museum and Winterthur, it is located 30 minutes southeast of Philadelphia and 1 hour from Lancaster County. Hamanassett is known for personal service, Southern hospitality and its fabulous breakfasts. In fact, the New York Times said, “The elaborate breakfasts are a highlight.” Hamanassett has seven bedrooms, all with en suite baths, flat screen TVs with DVD players, luxurious robes, English amenities, free WiFi and coffee makers with supplies. They even supply a large library of free movies as well as a large living room with a well-stocked library of literature. You might prefer to enjoy a game of billiards in front of the fireplace or enjoy a glass of port on the front porch which overlooks the waterfall and koi pond. Dogs are welcome in two rooms in the main house. The estate also includes two two-story cottages where dogs and children under 12 are welcomed.

Hamanassett also offers hands-on cooking classes with noted chefs throughout the year in their professional kitchen for those who enjoy exquisite food and creating and enjoying memorable menus and excellent accommodations. One of the most popular classes is “Brandywine Bounty” in which the students go into the countryside to explore and sample artisan food production and Brandywine Valley wineries.

Chester Heights, PA 19017 | (610) 459-3000 For Reservations Only (877) 836-8212 www.hamanassett.com

2110 Atlantic Ave. | N. Wildwood, NJ 08260 (1-866) ROC-1950 | www.summernites.com Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

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WOODLOCH RESORT

THE LAMBERTVILLE STATION

Enjoy the peaceful solitude of the elegant Woodloch Resort, nestled in the northeast Pocono Mountains Lake Region. Nature trails that connect to an open field are ideal for family cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. State game lands located nearby offer a greater challenging terrain.

There is no shortage of exciting activities and top-flight entertainment at this all-inclusive resort. Guests are provided with immaculate and spacious accommodations, abundant and delicious family-style meals and enough unique activity options to keep everyone entertained day and night!

Located on the banks of the Delaware River in historic Lambertville, NJ, just steps from New Hope in beautiful Bucks County PA, the hotel is a relaxing retreat. Enjoy first-class accommodations at a destination known for special events in antiquing, art galleries, and shopping all year long. Lambertville’s best restaurant, The Lambertville Station, has been a landmark for over 25 years. Located in a restored 19th century train station, their American cuisine restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, and Sunday Brunch. Casual dining is available indoors and seasonally on the canal side deck. The wine bar is exceptionally cozy.

731 Welcome Lake Road | Hawley, PA 18428 (800) 966-3562 | www.woodloch.com

11 Bridge Street | Lambertville, NJ 08530 (609) 397-4400 | www.lambertvillestation.com

Hawley, Pennsylvania

Lambertville, New Jersey

STOCKTON SEAVIEW HOTEL & GOLF CLUB Galloway, New Jersey

This quintessential seaside resort on the New Jersey shore is situated on over 670 wooded acres along Reed’s Bay in Galloway, NJ. Just eight miles from Atlantic City and 45 minutes from Philadelphia, this elegant, turn-of-the century resort is easily accessible from several major metropolitan areas, yet provides a peaceful, pristine, retreat-like setting for both business and leisure travelers.

Although steeped in history, Stockton Seaview provides guests with an unimaginable array of modern amenities.

From the elegant lobby to the 270 well-appointed guest rooms to the state-of-the-art meeting facilities, guests of this Atlantic City hotel will feel welcome, comfortable and well connected.

401 South New York Road | Galloway, New Jersey 08205 (855) 894-8698 | www.stocktonseaview.com

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Local Living Volume 6 | Issue 1

SANTOSHA ON THE RIDGE East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

Located 72 miles west of Manhattan, nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Santosha on the Ridge is a secluded sanctuary in Shawnee on Delaware. Affording gracious comfort and warm hospitality, this is a getaway to relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit. Santosha comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “contentment”. You will not only find contentment in these intimate surroundings, but also within yourself.

After a peaceful night’s sleep in any of their beautiful bedroom suites, you’ll awaken refreshed and ready for morning Yoga poses. For those who prefer to sleep in, awaken to the aroma of a home-cooked, gourmet organic breakfast. Complement your tranquil escape with an outdoor adventure, great golf, or local theatre. Take a private class with expert Yoga instructors, or drop in on a regular class and begin to experience total body relaxation to relieve stress and restore health. (Call for fees.) End each day by relaxing on the deck overlooking the Appalachian Trail on Kittatinny Ridge in New Jersey.

A bed and breakfast sanctuary where mind, body, and spirit Wireless Internet is available, and all rooms have air conditioning, hair dryers, robes and comfortable seating. A DVD player is available for watching one of your movies or you can choose one from Santosha’s library. TV is available in the main area of the house. A small refrigerator is available with beverages and snacks, or for your own use.

121 Santosha Lane | Shawnee, PA 18356 (570) 476-0203 | www.santoshaontheridge.com

flourish in a relaxing woodland setting.

121 Santosha Lane, Box 6154 East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570.476.0203 www.SantoshaOnTheRidge.com

Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

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SKYTOP LODGE strives to bring people together in a way that makes it easy to reconnect with nature and each other. This season, give your loved one the gift of time together and discover a romantic 5,500-acre wonderland filled with sleigh rides and special moments, that are sure to last a lifetime.

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legal

Employment Law Protections for Caregivers of Individuals with Alzheimer’s

by James Shrimp

A

ccording to the Alzheimer’s Association website, 5.3 million Americans currently have Alzheimer’s, with 5.1 million of those being 65 years of age or older. Barring a yet undiscovered treatment or cure, by 2025, the number of senior citizens with Alzheimer’s will be 7.1 million and by 2050, the number may reach 13.8 million.

In 2014, friends and family of individuals with Alzheimer’s provided an estimated 17.9 billion hours of unpaid care.

Forty-one percent (41%) of caregivers have a household income of $50,000 or less and two-thirds of caregivers are women. These caregivers, many of whom are reading this article, are often missing work or shuffling schedules to be there when needed for a parent, spouse or a sibling. As the number of seniors with Alzheimer’s increases, the number of caregivers and the number of work hours missed will continue to increase. In many instances, these caregivers are entitled to certain protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act or an employer’s benefit policies.

Family and Medical Leave Act (“FMLA”) The FMLA applies to employers in the United States that have fifty (50) or more employees. The employee is qualified for FMLA, if the employee has worked for the employer for one (1) year and worked 1,250 hours in the year prior to the request for leave (about 25 hours per week).

Under the FMLA, an employee is entitled to twelve (12) weeks of unpaid leave in any twelve (12) month period.

The leave can be taken in large portions (e.g., a three week leave) or can be taken intermittently (e.g., each Wednesday morning for 4 hours). FMLA leave can be taken for the care of a grandparent, parent, sibling, spouse or child. FMLA leave can also be taken for those who raised an individual in loco parentis.

As a caregiver, once you find out you will need to take time off to care for a qualified relative, contact your human resource representative immediately for two reasons. First, you want to make sure your time off is qualified under the FMLA and is not counting against you with respect to the employer’s attendance policy. Second, once you notify your employer of the need for FMLA leave, you cannot be retaliated against by your employer. Once you contact your human resources representative, you should be provided with a form to be completed by the physician treating your relative with Alzheimer’s.

Employer Leave Policies Remember that employee handbook and/or benefit booklet you received when you were hired – you need to find it and dust it off. The reason is two-fold. First, some employers that do not have to provide FMLA leave, i.e., they have less than 50 employees, have a private leave program that mirrors the FMLA. Second, some employers have leave policies that provide benefits above and beyond the leave requirements of the FMLA, such as paid leave, or an extended personal leave of absence policy.

Mr. Shrimp concentrates his practice in the representation of businesses in a variety of matters including commercial contract disputes, discrimination cases, restrictive covenant cases, wage and hour disputes, and business dissolution.

He also represents businesses in trademark applications, trademark infringement matters, and franchise litigation.

Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

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How to Simplify & Organize Your Life

By Jack Beckett

W

ould you like to lead a simpler life this year? What would it mean for you to finally get rid of the energy draining clutter that surrounds you every day?

How would it feel to have all of your stuff clean and in order, while all distractions were reduced to a minimum?

Pretty sweet, right? But how do you go about it? Where should you start?

It can be tempting to want to attack your house (and schedule) with a giant garbage bag tossing things (and activities) out in the name of simplifying. Don’t. Pick one area to focus on and really get it streamlined, before moving on to the next thing. Simplicity is not about tossing things, but rather actively and consciously choosing what you want to make the cut in your life.

When you approach the act of simplifying one zone of your life at a time, you’re much more likely to do the kind of considered thinking that lays the groundwork for systemic simplicity — and the chaos and clutter is much less likely to creep back in. If you’re not sure where to start, I recommend beginning with the one zone of your life that is causing you the most anxiety and stress.

Then think about all the things that help you to feel grounded and centered, or that you’d like to have more of in

your life — like free time, satisfying work projects, regular exercise and good nutrition, a sustainable living environment, or opportunities to express your creativity.

Now, set a specific goal related to each of these issues — for decluttering your closets or reducing your monthly expenses or drawing healthier boundaries at work or whatever is going to bring your life back into alignment with your values. Even small changes can make a big difference, so start with those — then you’re welcome to work your way up to more radical ways of simplifying.

As you begin, you’ll quickly discover how our lives and decisions have been based on cultural expectations and societal norms far more than our truest pursuits. And you’ll notice how your life has been unnecessarily complicated in the process. But even more, you will find yourself forced to identify your greatest values.

After all, you can’t really remove the nonessential possessions without identifying which possessions need to stay… and you can’t identify which possessions need to stay until you discover what you most want to accomplish with your life.

Here’s to your success – Good luck with your simplifying and enjoy your New Year!

Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

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profile

Finding Your Style

By Susan Taylor

A

sk your favorite designers where their ideas come from and the answer will be revealing. Street culture, foreign travel, nature and fashion are all key influences. I find additional inspiration with seasonal fabric and furniture launches. And that’s just the beginning. Design has undergone a mini revolution, with modern undertones in particular spilling over into every style.

Winter nesting can be the perfect time to make personal changes in your own décor. We live in a design-conscious age where interiors have caught up with fashion in the race for change. If it seems confusing to be bombarded with so many choices, the flip side is that there has never been so much design freedom. Finding inspiration is now one of the most enjoyable parts of defining your style.

Examine how you live, then tailor your interior accordingly. Consider first who lives at home. If it’s just you and a partner, then sleek and sophisticated can be perfect. But if there are children, a more practical style will be vital. You would be surprised how many interiors I have designed around pets! If you often have guests, or a home office, you may need two looks: flexible and casual for the living quarters yet chic and grown-up for your private zones. Consider how you like to live and run your home. Be honest. Consulting a professional should always be a consideration. Think of him or her as a personal trainer! You’ll get a different level of service and end result than going it on your own.

However, your input and serious thought should definitely play into the planning.

A few rare individuals have a strong look that is their

unmistakable personal stamp. Homes designed by a professional are permeated with one cohesive design thread, from furniture to accessories and finishes. That being said, ours homes will be a mix of varied looks and influences. Just as we amass a wardrobe of clothes to satisfy needs and tastes, it’s fun to combine different decorative styles that express your personal styles.

It can be hard to successfully combine a string of rooms reflecting a number of different styles. Try adding modern accents in bathrooms and kitchens, leaving the living spaces more transitional with touches of modernism. It is vital to pick one broad thread to draw everything together. This might be using identical flooring throughout. A tightly controlled palette of three colors or variations of the same color will bind styles together and be a unifying factor.

However good your “links” are from one style option to another, here’s a word of caution. It’s visually confusing to combine too many different influences. The results will be visually chaotic both for you and your guests.

Stylish looks for your home are no longer for just for the brave or the young. What’s more, there are enviable choices.

So, start gathering inspiration and find your style.

Susan Taylor is the Owner/Designer at Black-eyed Susan.

5222 York Rd., Buckingham, PA 19298 215.794.1800 | www.besusan.com besusan.blogspot.com

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The

Fork-1-1

by Kimberly Ca mbra

CasSOULet–

French Soul Food!

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here truly is only one world renowned French dish which is as steeped in history, culture and folklore as it is steeped in pork fat, meat and beans. Cassoulet, pronounced kass-su-lay, originates from the Languedoc region in the southwest of France with its beginnings during a British attack of Castelnaudary in 1355, under the charge of Edward the Prince of Wales. The town’s people were determined to keep their soldiers nourished for battle; together they filled and fired up a large cauldron with meats, beans and spices giving way to the creation of cassoulet. Its 14th century origins would suggest this meal to be a poor man’s dish with the readily available ingredients of meats which were smoked during this time, along with dried beans, for a long shelf life.

Over the centuries, as this classic comfort food evolved, it began to acquire a more emotional and social gastronomic foundation amongst its countrymen as a communal meal where friends contributed ingredients as a coming together into a one pot shopping. However, the actual name cassoulet is derived from the earthen ceramic funnel like cassole or casserole used to bake this combination of flavor infused ingredients. Some actual cassoulet vessels are often passed down from generation to generation in France, adding to the folklore.

Authentically recreating this so called “peasant” dish might be considered a modern day oxymoron and will cost you way more than beans for the foodie purist when using authentic ingredients such as the infamous Tarbais beans. These beans are grown and developed by generations of farmers in this region of France and are very expensive, close to $20 per pound.

Realistically, a cassoulet recipe can be interpretive with regards

to ingredients or combinations of ingredients by simply using hearty white beans or any other slow-cook beans along with a variety of sausages, and any type of poultry, to include duck or chicken.

Cassoulet is the antithesis of fast food, for it is cooked for hours and well worth the wait for this French “soul” food. A fine meal worthy of wintery afternoons paired with any wine, preferably red. If you find some from the Languedoc region, you will discover how affordable the wine is versus the shopping list for your meal. This might go without saying but a baton of crusty French bread is also another must for enjoying the comforts of a savory bean and sausage drenched cassoulet.

Still crave more about this iconic dish? Believe it or not the Universal Cassoulet Academy is a school for chefs dedicated to the practiced art of cooking cassoulet; here they can acquire their Master Cassoulet Chef certification. It is headquartered in Carcassonne, France with five other global embassies in Japan, Germany, USA, England and Canada. Their mission is to bring together men and women for whom expertise, quality and originality equate to a love of life in thought, word and deed and to eating well. At their core is the belief to organize and take part in the gastronomic, the cultural, and the artistic, with the sole aim of promoting cassoulet throughout the world and developing awareness of the region’s Master Cassoulet Chefs. So… c’est si bon viva la cassoulet –madams and monsieurs– ain’t no weenies and beans we’re talkin’!

Bon Appetit from the FORK-1-1!

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Come get to know us!

Traditional Italian Specialties Imported Olive Oils, Vinegars & More Full Service Deli Prepared Meals – Homemade Soups Gift Baskets and Catering Available 1259 Souderton Rd. (Rt 113) Blooming Glen, Pa 18911 (215) 453-5941 www.pasqualinas.biz

www.marshabrownrestaurant.com

Looking to bring a little southern hospitality north of the Mason-Dixon Line? Look no further than Marsha quality Brown Marsha Brown’s; the highest of fish, meat and poultry, and relaxed 215.862.7044 yet elegant surroundings.

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looking to bring a little southern hospitality north of the Mason-dixon line? look no further than Marsha Browns; the highest quality of fish, meats and fowl, and relaxed yet elegant surroundings.

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15 S. Main St., New Hope, PA 18938 215.862.7044 | www.marshabrownrestaurant.com

Spicy Sriracha Sauce Serving Suggestions - Dip for fried calamari, onion rings, sweet potato fries, or raw vegetables (crudités).

- Perfect sauce for fish tacos or lobster rolls.

- Try it in place of tartar sauce or rémoulade to augment the flavor of crab cakes, fish cakes, or fish & chips.

- Great for gourmet sandwiches, wraps and burgers.

- Wonderful complement for seared ahi tuna and spicy sushi rolls.

- Mix into chicken, tuna, or egg salad.

- Great for hard boiled eggs or deviled eggs.

- Dip for grilled cheese sandwiches, chicken nuggets, pretzels, fried zucchini or roasted vegetables - Mix it into coleslaw or potato salads.

- Try it on a Cuban, roast pork, Reuben, seared ahi tuna sandwich, or shrimp Po’ boy.

Fish Tacos with Kelchner’s Spicy Sriracha Sauce ADDICTIVELY SPICY! Add kick to your Super Bowl wings.

Kelchner’s Horseradish Products 1-800-424-1952 www.besthorseradish.com

Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

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“Say it with Chocolates, Bridge Street Chocolates!”

610-935-8100 • 158 Bridge Street Phoenixville, PA 19460 Like us on Facebook

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Local Living Volume 6 | Issue 1

Quakertown farmers market, affectionately known as the “qmart” by locals, has been an upper bucks shopping tradition since 1932. Under new ownership, the new owners like to boast “now, it’s even fresher here”. Changes for the better are happening as the shopping amenities are updated and modernized. The welcome traditions of value and old fashioned service remain intact.

The market is comprised of over 125+ friendly, local merchants who value their shoppers and know many of them on a first name basis. Many of the businesses here are family owned and multi-generational. The merchants take great pride in the personal service they are able to offer, in a world where everything is hurry up and impersonal, it is a pleasure to slow down and experience shopping at a local farmers market where you are able to find everything you need under one roof.

For over 84 years, quakertown farmers market has promoted shopping local and supported small businesses. Old fashioned, personal service is the quakertown farmers market’s hallmark. Geniune merchant pride in product offerings and customer service are unmatched in the surrounding shopping area. You will find farm fresh, local fruits and vegetables, fresh butcher cut meats, yummie baked goods, a 7 day a week discount grocery, garden nursery, pet store and dozens of unique farmers market departments all offering value, service and quality.

The market is open every friday and saturday from 9am-9pm and sundays 10am-5pm. Coming events can be found posted on the website @itsfresherhere.Com along with the weekly sales flyer. The huge, indoor/outdoor flea market is also open year round and packed full of hidden treasures. Check out our newly renovated indoor flea market space which is totally heated and air-conditioned located in barn #3 behind the main market. New vendors are always welcome!, Contact the market office if interested at 215-536-4115. During the warmer months, the flea market also plays host to an outdoor auction held on the first and third friday mornings of the month. Quakertown farmers market, “shopping that’s worth waiting for the weekend.”

Food for Thought Shopping Cart

ESSENTIALS > Stocking Up on These Healthy Staples

By Liza Barnes

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So, you’re going to start eating healthy. Congratulations are in order—and so is a trip to the grocery store. Stocking up on some new items is a must. If your pantry is full of healthy fare, you’ll stress less about meals, and you’ll be less likely to snack on nutritionally-empty junk.

B

ut should you buy 12-grain or whole wheat bread?

Low-fat milk or soy milk? Butter or margarine?

Grocery shopping isn’t rocket science, but it can be confusing, even for those with the best of intentions.

So to help, here’s a list of shopping cart essentials—an aisleby-aisle guide to supplies you’ll need to stock your kitchen for your healthy eating resolution.

Produce: Start Here

Fresh fruits and veggies are the foundation of a healthy diet.

Here are some of the best picks to help you reach your goals: • Apples are good to have on hand for a quick snack. They’re usually cheaper by the bag, and they last for a while, so don’t be afraid to stock up.

• Bananas are another handy snack. This fruit is also an essential if you’re a fan of smoothies. Wait for them to ripen (with a few brown spots), then peel, slice, and freeze in an airtight container for a quick, frosty addition to your favorite smoothie combo.

• Lettuce. Skip the iceberg (its low in nutrients) and grab a head of Romaine (for salads and sandwiches) and some mixed baby greens (also great for salads).

• Carrots are a simple snack (try dipping them in almond or peanut butter for a new twist) and a common ingredient in soup and stir-fry.

• Dark green, leafy vegetables. If you buy just one produce item, this should be it Greens are high in calcium, folate, and vitamin C, and delicious. There are lots of varieties of greens (broccoli, kale, chard, and spinach are popular examples).

• Avocados, those mysterious egg-shaped fruits, are rich in good fats, and delicious additions to sandwiches, wraps, or salads. Buy them when they’re green and allow them to ripen on your counter—they’re ready to eat when soft. Homemade guacamole makes a flavorful addition to veggies, burritos and baked chips.

• Whole wheat bread. To make sure you’re buying whole grain bread (which is superior in nutrition and arguably, flavor) make sure “whole” is the first word on the ingredient list. The same goes for buns, bagels, English muffins, pitas, and other bread products.

• Sprouted grain bread is usually sold in the freezer case or natural foods section. It’s made entirely of sprouted whole grains, which are more easily digestible for some people.

This bread also boasts protein (and all essential amino acids) and fiber.

• Whole grain pasta. Choose whole wheat pasta and couscous, or even brown rice pasta for variety.

• Brown rice is a healthy addition to many meals. For quicker cooking, you can soak it on the counter for a few hours before boiling it, or buy pre-cooked brown rice in the freezer section that you can reheat in the microwave in minutes!

• Healthy cereals are those made with whole grains and without additives. Oatmeal is a hearty breakfast staple that cooks in minutes. Buy (plain) instant or quick oats to save time. When cooking it on the stovetop, add a handful of frozen blueberries for a scrumptious breakfast truly fit for champions.

Bread & Cereal Aisles

Bread, cereals and other grain products can often be the most confusing to buy, and healthy sounding phrases on their packages (Health Nut, 12-Grain, and more) don’t make it any easier. For the best bet, ignore the claims on the front of the box and go straight to the nutrition label.

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The Dairy Case

Most grocery stores place dairy in the very back so that you’ll have to walk through the whole store (and past its enticing food items) to get to it. But even though it’s in the back, dairy holds an important place in most people’s diets.

So what are the top picks?

• Skim milk has just as much calcium as other varieties, but far less saturated fat. If you’re intolerant of milk (or prefer not to drink it), try dairy alternatives like soy or rice milk.

The fortified varieties have as much calcium and vitamin D as dairy milk, but are free of saturated fat and cholesterol.

• Low-fat yogurt is getting more praise every day for supplying our bodies with probiotics, the healthy bacteria that keep our intestines happy. Choose low-fat and natural varieties, watch the sugar content. Soy yogurt, which is fortified with calcium and contains probiotics, is another good choice.

• Low-fat cottage cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, without any added sugar. It’s a versatile ingredient for both sweet and savory healthy dishes. Look for lowsodium varieties if you are watching your blood pressure.

• Keifer, basically, is drinkable yogurt. It’s mildly tangy, usually sweetened and whipped with fruit. It has many of the same health benefits as yogurt.

• Cheese. Admittedly, some low-fat cheeses don’t taste as good as the “real” thing, but this is improving. Cheese is high in calcium, so even if you splurge on the full-fat varieties, it’s still healthy to eat it in moderation and when you keep your portions in check.

•Butter is a food to be enjoyed in moderation. It has about the same amount of fat and calories as margarine, but is often a better choice since margarine can be loaded with transfats.

Eggs and egg whites are great sources of protein. Many experts and consumers agree that the best tasting (and possibly most nutritious) eggs come from organically-fed and pasture-raised birds.

Meat & Other Proteins

Meat is often more expensive than plant-based proteins, but you can buy meat on sale and freeze what you can’t use within a few days. Keep in mind that a healthy diet will include a variety of protein sources, so don’t be afraid of going meatless and opting for beans or the occasional tofu— both of which make healthy additions to any meal.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are an ultra-simple and healthy source of protein. Go for hormone-free chicken when possible.

• Canned chunk-light tuna in water is healthy and convenient when making sandwiches and topping salads.

Avoid tuna packed in oil, and watch for added sodium. Try canned salmon for variety.

• Fish is a heart-healthy protein source thanks its Omega-3 fatty acids. Choose fresh if it fits your budget and lifestyle, or frozen. Cod, flounder, haddock, halibut, trout, wild salmon and tuna are the best choices.

• Beans are good sources of protein, fiber and other nutrients.

You can buy them canned, but for superior flavor (and price), buy dried beans. Some staple varieties include black beans, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), and kidney beans. Add them to soups or salads, or over some brown rice, with grated cheese and salsa for a simple and satisfying supper.

• Tofu is a healthy source of plant protein that’s also cholesterol-free. Look for extra firm varieties in the refrigerator section to add to stirfry, or “silken” varieties to add a protein boost to smoothies.

• Lean beef isn’t that hard to find. Look for USDA Select or Choice grades of beef that are trimmed of fat or marked as “lean,” such as round, sirloin, flank steak and 95% lean ground beef.

Extras

• Salad dressing. Read labels to find ingredients that you recognize. When you find one you really like, you’ll likely eat more salad, which is a good thing!

• Olive oil. Buy extra virgin for the best flavor.

Herbs and spices—stock up! These add flavor to any dish without adding fat or calories. Some basics are cinnamon, cumin, black pepper, oregano, and basil. They can be expensive when you buy them all at once, so buy them as you need them for recipes, and check out the prices on the bag-and-weigh spices at your natural-foods grocery store, which are much lower in cost.

With a few good recipes and some creativity, the flavors of the toaster pastries and TV dinners of your past will fade faster than the green flesh of a freshly cut avocado. You’ll see! Now get shopping!

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Cold Weather Recipes to Keep Your Family Warm This Winter

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When it turns cold outside, there are certain dishes we gravitate to for comfort.

These best winter recipes will make your house smell fantastic and warm you up inside and out. There is no doubt that your whole family will enjoy sitting down to eat, with any of these creations are on their plates!

Baked Potato Soup

Here’s a classic, perfect for potato lovers—baked potato soup, made with mashed up baked potatoes, onion, celery, and stock, puréed and topped with classic baked potato toppings like crumbled crispy bacon, grated cheddar cheese, sour cream and chives. It’s the perfect thing for using up leftover baked potatoes too.

Ingredients 4 pounds russet potatoes (about 7 medium potatoes) 1/4 pound thick sliced bacon, cut crosswise into 1/8-inch slices (lardons) 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 2 cups) 2 ribs celery, finely chopped 6 cups chicken stock 1 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste) 1/8 teaspoon of ground white or black pepper 2 to 4 Tbsp heavy cream (optional) Garnishes: Grated sharp cheddar cheese Sour cream Minced chives Crumbled bacon (from step 2 in method) Directions 1. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke them all over with the tines of a fork or paring knife (this is so they don’t explode from internal pressure building up as they cook). Place on a foil lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 1 hour, or until easily cut through with a knife. Remove and let cool enough to handle. (To speed up cooling, slice them in half lengthwise.)

2. Place bacon lardons in a large, thick bottomed Dutch oven (about 5 to 6 quart pot). Heat on medium high until the bacon starts to brown then lower the heat to medium. Cook until the bacon has rendered most of its fat and the lardons are browned and crispy. Remove the cooked bacon and set aside.

Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat from the pan. (Do not discard bacon fat in your sink, it will clog the drain. Pour the fat into a jar and let it cool and solidify. Then either scoop it out and discard it or use it for another purpose.)

3. Add the chopped onion and celery to the remaining bacon fat in the pot. Cook for 2 minutes on medium high, then lower the heat to low, and cover the pot. Let cool slowly on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes.

4. When potatoes are cool enough to handle, scoop out the insides to a bowl. Then add it to the cooked onion and celery mixture along with 6 cups chicken stock. Add a teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring the soup to a simmer and reduce the heat to

low. Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes into the stock.

5. Cook the potato soup for about 5 minutes, then use an immersion blender to purée about half of the soup if you want a slightly chunky soup, or purée all of it if you want a smoother soup. Stir 2 to 4 tablespoons of heavy cream into the soup if you want a creamier soup. Add more salt and pepper to taste.

6. Pour into bowls and top with grated cheddar, sour cream, chives, and crumbled crispy bacon.

Cheesy Skillet Cornbread

This cornbread is packed with cheese, onions, and whole corn, and flavored with bacon drippings. Need I say more?

Serve the corn bread at the table directly from the skillet, the benefit being that because the cast iron holds its heat so well, the corn bread stays warm throughout the entire meal.

Ingredients 1 cup cornmeal 1/2 cup flour 1 Tbsp baking powder 1 Tbsp sugar 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon salt

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1 cup shredded medium or sharp cheddar cheese 1/4 cup chopped onion 1 cup milk 3 Tbsp bacon drippings (warmed to liquid), plus 1 teaspoon to grease the pan 1 egg, beaten 3/4 cup of cooked corn, either fresh, defrosted frozen corn, or drained from a can Directions 1. Place a 9 or 10-inch cast iron pan in the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and salt. Add remaining ingredients, and stir until just combined.

3. Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven (remember the handle is hot!). Place a teaspoon of bacon fat in the bottom of the hot pan and swirl it around until it is all melted and coating the bottom of the pan. Pour the batter from the mixing bowl into the pan. Remember to put a pot holder over the hot handle of the pan and return it to the oven.

4. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let the cornbread cool in the pan.

Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is basically a casserole with a layer of cooked meat and vegetables, topped with mashed potatoes, and baked in the oven until the the mashed potatoes are well browned. When you dig in you get a spoonful of mashed potatoes, some crispy bits, meat, and vegetables all 42

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in one bite. It’s pure comfort food.

Ingredients 1 1/2 to 2 pounds potatoes (about 3 large potatoes), peeled and quartered 8 Tablespoons (1 stick) butter 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups) 1-2 cups vegetables—diced carrots, corn, peas 1 1/2 lbs ground round beef 1/2 cup beef broth 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Salt, pepper, other seasonings of choice Directions 1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in medium sized pot. Cover with at least an inch of cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook until tender (about 20 minutes.

2. While the potatoes are cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of the butter in a large sauté pan on medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until tender, about 6 to 10 minutes. If you are including vegetables, add them according to their cooking time. Carrots should be cooked with the onions, because they take as long to cook as the onions do. If you are including peas or corn, add them toward the end of the cooking of the onions, or after the meat starts to cook, as they take very little cooking time.

3. Add ground beef to the pan with the onions and vegetables. Cook until no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper. Add the worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Bring the broth to a simmer and reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered

for 10 minutes, adding more beef broth if necessary to keep the meat from drying out.

4. When the potatoes are done cooking (a fork can easily pierce), remove them from the pot and place them in a bowl with the remaining 4 Tbsp of butter. Mash with a fork or potato masher, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread the beef, onions, and vegetables (if using) in an even layer in a large baking dish (8x13 casserole). Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the ground beef. Rough up the surface of the mashed potatoes with a fork so there are peaks that will get well browned. You can even use a fork to make creative designs in the mashed potatoes.

6. Place in a 400°F oven and cook until browned and bubbling, about 30 minutes. If necessary, broil for the last few minutes to help the surface of the mashed potatoes brown.

Apple Cobbler

A favorite thing to make with apples is this apple cobbler.

The filling is seasoned with cinnamon, lemon, and vanilla and isn’t overly sweet. The buttermilk biscuit cobbler crust is speckled with bits of candied ginger. As much as we all love pie, cobblers are much less fussy. You don’t roll out a crust, but just spoon the crust dough on top of the filling. So you get the great taste of pie with half the work!

Ingredients Filling ingredients: 3 lbs of a variety of good cooking apples such as Granny Smith, Pippin, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Gravenstein 2 Tbsp lemon juice 4 Tbsp unsalted butter 1/2 cup sugar 1 Tbsp flour 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2. Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped apples (and the lemon juice from the bowl), sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss to coat with everything so that the spices and sugar are well distributed throughout the apples. Partially cover the pot and cook until the apples are just tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the vanilla, and toss to coat with a tablespoon of flour. Transfer the apple cobbler filling (including any juices from the apples) to a 10-inch pie dish, a 9-inch deep-dish pie dish, or a 9x9-inch baking dish.

3. Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add the cubed butter and toss to coat with the flour mixture.

Use your fingertips or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the flour mixture until the largest piece of butter is no bigger than a pea. Stir in the candied ginger and zest. Make a well in the middle of the flour mixture and pour in the buttermilk. Use a fork to stir the flour and buttermilk together until the flour is all moistened. Do not overwork the dough!

4. Crumble the cobbler dough over the top of the apples in the baking dish. (If you want extra pizzaz you can sprinkle the top with a little brown sugar.)

5. Place a rimmed baking sheet on the lowest rack in the oven (to catch any drippings), and place the cobbler on the next lowest rack. Bake for 10 minutes at 425°F until the top is beginning to brown, about 10 to 15 minutes. Then lower the temperature to 350°F and bake for 30 more minutes until the topping is cooked through and the filling is bubbly.

Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Crust ingredients: 2 cups all purpose flour 1/4 cup sugar 2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup (1 stick or 4 ounces) unsalted butter, cut into small cubes 1 cup buttermilk 1 Tbsp finely chopped crystallized ginger 1 teaspoon lemon zest or orange zest Method 1. Peel, quarter, and core the apples. Cut them into 1/4 to 1/2 inch chunks. As you prep the apples, add them to a bowl and toss with lemon juice to keep them from oxidizing (turning brown).

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education

The Malvern School

F

eaturing a highly credentialed staff and state-ofthe-art facilities, The Malvern School demonstrates a dedicated approach to education and innovation since 1998, providing quality private pre-school education for children ages 6 weeks through 8 years with full and half-day options.

With 20 locations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, The Malvern School offers an age-appropriate curriculum that nurtures children with a multi-disciplinary approach exposing them to math and science concepts, language development, multicultural activities, self-help skills, fine and gross motor skills, arts and crafts, and music and movement both indoors and out. In addition to its centralized play areas, each school features three separate playground areas customized to accommodate the varied developmental stages of its students.

To meet and exceed the highest standards of early childhood education, ten of the Malvern schools have achieved National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation -- a national certification that requires the school to meet more than 400 criteria and at least a year of intensive work to achieve. All schools follow standards set forth by NAEYC.

In 2009, The Malvern School underscored its focus on literacy, language development and reading skills by re-launching former First Lady Barbara Bush’s literary initiative, “Mrs. Bush’s Story Time.” Granted access to stories Mrs. Bush read on tape for children, the school now incorporates the audiobooks in its programming, with activities based on the themes explored in the featured classic children’s books. The teaching staff at the Malvern school has compiled these stories into curriculum packets that may be downloaded downloadable from the website, www.malvernschool.com, for use by parents and educators from anywhere in the United States.

In recent years, The Malvern School has worked with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation to help raise funds to research childhood cancer. In addition to teaching the children the value of giving, The Malvern School, with proceeds from its annual Alex’s Lemonade Stand Day as well as other school-wide events, corporate partnerships, and other efforts, has been named one of the top 100 fundraisers in this region for the charity.

To find a school near you and to contact a director for a private tour, visit MalvernSchool.com or call 1-877-MALVERN.

Private Early Childhood Education For 6 Weeks To 8 Years

Love Of Learning ... Begins Here

Come let your child explore the wonder

of learning, where they will create, discover and make new friends, nurtured by teachers degreed in early childhood education and a curriculum designed for their age and their imagination.

Enroll Today!

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1-877-MALVERN

•

malvernschool.com

Locations in PA & NJ

MS_LocalLiving_jan12.indd 1

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11/15/12 10:59 AM

Experience Shopping that’s Refreshing!

Stroll our sidewalks and enjoy the chill in the air as you browse our many shops. Then warm up with a delicious treat at one of our restaurants and be sure to visit our newest stores and restaurants.

GET OUT & SHOP!

Rte 611 at Street Road • Warrington, PA (adjacent to Wegman’s)

shopvalleysquare.com

OVER 35 SHOPS, SERVICES & RESTAURANTS INCLUDING DSW SHOES EASTERN MOUNTAIN SPORTS • BANANA REPUBLIC • OLLY SHOES VICTORIA’S SECRET • ESSENTIALS SALON • YANKEE CANDLE J. JILL • CHIPOTLE • LOFT • MASSAGE ENVY • BATH & BODY WORKS EUROPEAN WAX CENTER • TED’S MONTANA GRILL • YOGURTLAND THE MELTING POT • PANERA • CARMEL KITCHEN AND WINE BAR PF CHANGS AND SOMA OPENING SOON

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Local Living Volume 6 | Issue 1 Managed by The Wilder Companies

fashionista Tips on How Not to Sacrifice Style for Warmth Finding the Perfect Coat

By Jillian Dunn

A

s the colder weather approaches every fashionista starts to plan her cold weather wardrobe! The key factor to maintaining your sense of style during the winter season is choosing the perfect coat.

The northeast weather is not always cooperative to looking stylish and the idea of a puffy coat gives us all moment to pause, Oh no! How am I going to pick a coat that keeps me both warm but also not make me look like I suddenly gained 10 lbs?

Thankfully with new technology there are options that are sleek and warm making shopping for a winter coat a more fashionable adventure than in previous years.

A few tips on finding the perfect coat for the season. First determine your budget, it is ok to spend more on outerwear as this article of clothing is a staple in your attire and will be seen more that any other item you wear.

After you determine what you would like to spend, think of color and do you want to do a basic black or chose a color to make your basic wardrobe pop? A colored coat can brighten any winter day and works for even the most serious fashionista who normally shies away from color in every other season.

If you chose black then go for an option of texture or an

interesting detail to make a statement, when taking the color route stick to simpler styles in order to make more versatile.

Length is also a key consideration in a coat purchase, suburbanites might want to consider a car length coat based on them spending less most of their time getting in and out of a car. City dwellers should take into consideration how far they walk and their commute to and from home. Knee length or longer coats have a tendency to suit city living as it keeps your legs warmer.

Lastly base the size your purchase on how you like to layer, this is not the time to get fixated on a size my fellow fashionistas. A too tight or fitted coat does not allow to accommodate changes in temperature as you are limited to what you can layer under.

If you choose the right coat for your style, budget and lifestyle the season will pass quickly and we can start to plan our spring wardrobe before we know it.

Jillian Dunn has over 25 years in the fashion industry from managing local Philadelphia based boutiques to corporate based businesses. Her skills include personal styling, hosting charity based shopping events, as well as Personal and Home Organizing. She can be contacted at: jillddunn@icloud.com Volume 6 | Issue 1 Local Living

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

What Makes a Healthy Relationship?

H

opefully, you and your significant other are treating each other well. Not sure if that’s the case? Take a step back from the dizzying sensation of being swept off your feet and think about whether your relationship has these seven qualities: Mutual respect. Does he or she get how great you are and why? (Watch out if the answer to the first part is yes but only because you’re acting like someone you’re not!) The key is that your partner likes you for who you are — for your great sense of humor, your love of reality TV, etc. Does your partner listen when you say you’re not comfortable doing something and then back off right away? Respect in a relationship means that each person values who the other is and understands — and would never challenge — the other person’s boundaries.

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Trust. You’re talking with a guy at work and your partner walks by. Does he completely lose his cool or keep walking because he knows you’d never cheat on him? It’s OK to get a little jealous sometimes — jealousy is a natural emotion. But how a person reacts when feeling jealous is what matters.

There’s no way you can have a healthy relationship if you don’t trust each other.

Honesty. This one goes hand-in-hand with trust because it’s tough to trust someone when one of you isn’t being honest. Have you ever caught your partner in a major lie?

Like they told you that she had to work on Friday night but it turned out she was out with her friends? The next time they say they have to work, you’ll have a lot more trouble believing them and the trust will be on shaky ground.

Relationships can be one of the best — and most challenging — parts of your world. They can be full of fun, romance, excitement, intense feelings, and occasional heartache, too. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, remember that it’s good to be choosy about who you get close to.

Support. It’s not just in bad times that your partner should support you. Some people are great when your whole world is falling apart but can’t take being there when things are going right (and vice versa). In a healthy relationship, your significant other is there with a shoulder to cry on when you find out your parents are getting divorced and to celebrate with you when you land a promotion at work.

Fairness/equality. You need to have give-and-take in your relationship, too. Do you take turns choosing which new movie to see? As a couple, do you hang out with your partner’s friends as often as you hang out with yours? It’s not like you have to keep a running count and make sure things are exactly even, of course. But you’ll know if it isn’t a pretty fair balance. Things get bad really fast when a relationship turns into a power struggle, with one person fighting to get his or her way all the time.

Separate identities. In a healthy relationship, everyone needs to make compromises. But that doesn’t mean you should feel like you’re losing out on being yourself. When you started going out, you both had your own lives (families, friends, interests, hobbies, etc.) and that shouldn’t change.

Neither of you should have to pretend to like something you don’t, or give up seeing your friends, or drop out of activities you love. And you also should feel free to keep developing new talents or interests, making new friends, and moving forward.

Good communication. You’ve probably heard lots of stuff about how men and women don’t seem to speak the same language. We all know how many different meanings the little phrase “no, nothing’s wrong” can have, depending on who’s saying it! But what’s important is to ask if you’re not sure what he or she means, and speak honestly and openly so that the miscommunication is avoided in the first place. Never keep a feeling bottled up because you’re afraid it’s not what your partner wants to hear or because you worry about sounding silly. And if you need some time

to think something through before you’re ready to talk about it, the right person will give you some space to do that if you ask for it.

Relationships can be one of the best — and most challenging — parts of your world. They can be full of fun, romance, excitement, intense feelings, and occasional heartache, too. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, remember that it’s good to be choosy about who you get close to. If you’re still waiting, take your time and get to know plenty of people.

Think about the qualities you value in a friendship and see how they match up with the ingredients of a healthy relationship. Work on developing those good qualities in yourself — they make you a lot more attractive to others.

And if you’re already part of a pair, make sure the relationship you’re in brings out the best in both of you.

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The Battle of the Bulge

Dr. Skalicky’s “BodyShrink” Procedure Removes One Inch of Body Fat Without Surgery

H

ow many times have you heard someone say, ”No matter what I do I can’t get rid of the bulge in this part of my body?” Well, now there is an answer. And it doesn’t involve months of dieting or workouts or even involved surgery. Instead it involves a simple office procedure utilizing high density ultrasound to melt away an inch of fat from the body. The new procedure termed “BodyShrink”, designed by Dr. Robert Skalicky, plastic surgeon, utilizes the Solta Medical Liposonix ultrasound technology to melt away an inch of fat in specific areas of the body to create more pleasing body contours. Love handles, thighs, abdominal “belly fat”, and bra strap fullness are all areas that can be easily treated with the new procedure.

“The beauty of this procedure,” states Dr. Skalicky, “is that it finally offers a simple solution to eliminate small areas of fatty tissue excess in the body without an involved surgical procedure.” Patients drive themselves to the office, undergo the BodyShrink treatment, and an hour or so later drive home and resume their normal lifestyle. The advantages of procedure are remarkable. It is non-invasive. It has no incisions. It has no recovery or downtime. The procedure takes approximately one hour to perform and requires little or no medication. An entire waistline can be treated in 45 to 60 minutes. Shrinkage of the area occurs over the next several weeks with final improvement seen by 8 to 12 weeks.

While the ultrasound technology offers a breakthrough in non-invasive fat removal, it is how the technology is applied that matters. According to Dr. Skalicky, “Anyone can buy a paint brush, but not everyone can paint.” Dr. Skalicky’s

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BodyShrink procedure takes the technology to a new level by creating individualized treatment plans for each patient based on their anatomy and removing the fat from the areas that will sculpt their body for maximal improvement. It is the artistic application of the technology that results in body contour improvement. And it is the contouring ability of BodyShrink that separates this procedure from other fat removal methods that do not have the ability to sculpt and contour.

The ideal patient for this procedure is someone who has at least an extra inch of fat on their body that they want to get rid of in an easy, simple way. “The best candidate”, according to Dr. Skalicky, “is someone that can pinch at least an inch or more of fullness on their body that just won’t go away with attempts at diet or exercise. BodyShrink offers an easy, non-invasive answer to this problem. Patients love the fact that they do not have to take time off from work or interrupt their normal routines. The fat just disappears over weeks as the body removes the treated cells.”

Pricing for the procedure is less than half of what traditional liposuction costs and areas can be retreated several months down the line if a patient chooses to do so. As long as the patient doesn’t gain weight, the fat removal will be permanent.

While the battle of the bulge will always continue to be fought, BodyShrink just may be the weapon needed to win the war!

Dr. Skalicky offers complimentary consultations for BodyShrink at his office in Newtown, Pa. His office phone number is (215) 702-8600.

A Zenful Practice to Inner Peace

By Andrea Preziotti

Z

en is both a religion and a way of life, and urban linguists refer to it as “a total state of focus that incorporates a total togetherness of body and mind.” The Tingsha cymbal is used in Tibetan meditation and emits a pure bell tone — almost crystal in quality. The tone is meant to awaken awareness, to initiate healing and mindfulness. I certainly didn’t know any of that when I purchased it from the ABC Carpet and Home store but the intonation of the bells has become part of my daily ritual as I attempt to restore balance and centeredness to my busy existence.

Early morning in a dark room, it takes me awhile to wake.

Bare feet on a wooden floor, I lean forward to tie back the curtains, and peer into the world outside. I crack the window and feel a flood of cool air brush against my face, and it is here in this moment that I make my intention for the day, sealing the unspoken words with the chime of a Tingsha Cymbal. All before my morning coffee.

With so many distractions vying for our attention, I think we can all agree that it’s a bit of a challenge to create a calming center anywhere, especially in our own mind. There are some days that I feel achieving this balance has become the holy grail of our era, and yet, I know that with a little personal effort it’s not an impossibility either. The road to enlightenment begins simply. One must literally turn off the world, and then tune back into self. There are three things to keep in mind when integrating (or for some, bringing back) the Zen into life: Mindfully commit to your intention. Whether for ten minutes or 90 prepare your heart and mind to be present in this moment, leaving everything non-essential behind.

Things like the laundry, your list of to do items, the pile of papers that need to be filed, all those unanswered emails — they’ll all keep. Put the computer to sleep, ask your partner 58

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to mind the kids and the dog, turn off your phone and step into it.

Now that’s done, it’s time to clear the air. I like to use leaves from the sage, rosemary or lavender bushes in my backyard but if you don’t have dried herbs handy you can use a favorite scented candle. Light the leaves (or candle) in a flame-proof dish and walk through each room, allowing the scent to permeate the space. Here’s where you recite your intention to yourself, and then make it known in your meditative space, repeating it to yourself until you’ve made a complete circuit of the room.

Quiet your mind. Choose an activity that has a calming effect on your mind. For some this could be yoga, for others a few laps in the pool. It could be soaking in a tub, taking a bubble bath or simply nestling into a comfy chair with a favorite book. Whatever it is, find the rhythm that brings you two steps slower than your norm and allow yourself to steep in it, and relax.

RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE: 43 Ways to Simplify Your Life Daily Zen Elephant Journal: Dedicated to a Mindful Life Zen Habits: Change Andrea Preziotti is a writer living in Brooklyn, NY. She has contributed articles as a freelance writer and editor for The Huffington Post, The Journal of Cultural Conversation and LA Splash. To learn more about Andrea, visit http://bkgardenapt.blogspot.com.

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health

Talking to Children About Our Changing World

by Matthew Weldon Gelber MS MFT Psychotherapist

T

he plethora of tragic events in the news combined with the pervasive nature of the Internet and today’s continuous flow of media, parents are more and more often finding themselves in the position to discuss difficult situations with their children. To help navigate these conversations, I’ve put together the following tips to serve as a guide to keep these talks positive and healthy.

In the face of tragedy, it’s normal to quickly make a plan to discuss how you feel about a situation. There is one problem with a rash conversation, however: it’s not on the child’s level. The first step towards discussion would be to think about how your child would interpret any horrific event.

Once you’ve slowed down and considered your child’s point of view, on your child’s level, then you can begin a good conversation.

The next step is to design the bulk of the conversation in the general sense. In short, do not plan on giving details about the specific events that took place but focus on the bigger concept about grieving, safety and understanding.

The following step is to be ready for the questions that may come your way... and there could be a lot of questions.

You must be prepared to answer them honestly, but again, using language that is on par with the question. Plan your responses to show your child there is hope and that he or she is safe. Creating an environment where the conditions are

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safe and calm is what they will take from the conversation.

It is going to be the most psychologically sound approach.

I remember growing up and having the standard fire drill and knowing that my friends and I, as well as our teacher, would always be safe because we knew what to do. The sense of safety was that reassuring. My children will be growing up in a world that is much different, and we have to be strong.

We have to be out in front of any fear in our children. If we do so, we will have the opportunity to show them that being prepared and calm can help us feel safe.

My heart broke when I heard of the events that took place in Newtown, Connecticut. My deepest condolences go to each and every person affected by this tragedy. Newtown looks like the town I grew up in and is also like the one I live in now. This can happen anywhere but living our lives to the fullest and communicating with our children will help them feel safe. Please talk to your children every day. Understand their thoughts and fears, and know their emotions. This is a start to a better world.

Matthew Weldon Gelber MS MFT is a psychotherapist at the Weldon Center located in Malvern, Pennsylvania. Matthew works with individuals, couples and families in therapy. Please visit www.mattgelber.com or call (610) 310-5898 for more information.

Region’s Leader in Heart Valve Repair St. Luke’s University Health Network knows hearts.

Our cardiologists are more than heart doctors... they’re heart valve experts.

St. Luke’s Heart & Vascular Center is the only heart center in the region chosen by medical device companies to pioneer the most advanced non-surgical valve repair techniques, including MitraClip. Our Heart Center is the region’s leader for life saving interventional procedures and heart valve replacements.

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On the Leading Edge

St. Luke’s University Health Network Offers the Latest in Valve Repair, Arhythmia Management

T

o say the new procedures offered by St. Luke’s University Health Network’s cardiac valve replacement program are on the cutting edge would be an understatement. Instead, since there is no “cutting” involved, they are on the leading edge of minimally invasive procedures with shorter procedure and recovery times, and present options for patients who are not candidates for traditional open-heart surgeries.

St. Luke’s University Health Network’s (SLUHN) Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and MitraClip valve-repair procedures offer patients who suffer from progressive diseases and may not be healthy enough for open heart surgeries a solution to life-threatening cardiac illness.

Additionally, the highly specialized technology of the Evera MRI defibrillator allows patients to undergo MRIs, an option unavailable to patients with traditional defibrillators.

“One of our commitments at St. Luke’s is that if we feel new technology is game-changing, we go out of our way to get access to the technology so that we can offer it to our patients as soon as possible,” says Darren Traub, DO, SLUHN’s Medical Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology.

“These are game-changing technologies and they’re available right here in our region.”

Adds Christopher Sarnoski, DO, Medical Director of SLUHN’s Structural Heart Disease Program: “These pro62

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Above from left to right:

Darren Traub, DO / Christopher Sarnoski, DO

Raymond A. Durkin, MD / Stephen Olenchock, DO

cedures and devices broaden the pools of patients who now have better solutions to their medical problem and enables them to receive better care in the future.”

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement with Sapien 3 Valves

The TAVR procedure is for patients who suffer from a condition known as severe aortic stenosis, a narrowing of the arteries surrounding the heart, which Dr. Sarnoski explains as being similar to a great deal of rust forming on a gate.

“In this case,” he notes, “the wear and tear on the valve doesn’t allow it to open. Essentially, the heart is pumping blood through a pinhole. That’s a mechanical problem that requires a fix.”

In the TAVR procedure, the Sapien 3 valve—manufactured

by Edwards Lifesciences and released last summer—is carried via catheter through the femoral artery using imaging to guide cardiologists as they position the valve.

A temporary pacemaker paces the patient’s heart at approximately 180 beats per minute for the 15 to 20 seconds the doctor needs to implant the valve. That rapid pace results in little movement of the heart when the doctor implants the Sapien 3.

The doctor uses a wire to guide the balloon-expandable replacement valve, which is on a stent, into the heart and across the aortic valve. The balloon is inflated and, as it expands, it moves the old valve out of the way and the new valve into place.

St. Luke’s cardiologists have done nearly 200 TAVR procedures to date, with outstanding results.

“We look at success, mortality both in-hospital and at 30 days, and if the patient had a stroke or major vascular injuries,” notes Raymond A. Durkin, MD, Chairman of Cardiovascular Medicine at SLUHN. “We are superior to the national averages in all of these areas.”

MitraClip

The MitraClip repairs a leaky mitral valve in patients who are too high risk for surgery. To implant the MitraClip, the surgeon guides the device through the common femoral vein.

“We go in the right atrium, do a septal puncture and enter into the left atrium above the valve,” explains Stephen Olenchock, DO, SLUHN’s Chief of Cardiovascular Surgery, who traveled with Dr. Sarnoski to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center last July for highly specialized MitraClip training.

The surgeon then uses imaging to place the clip in the area where the damage is or in the area where the leak is occurring. The MitraClip is repositionable and attaches the mitral valve’s front and back leaflets together to help prevent blood leaking back into the heart.

“The MitraClip procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours depending on how many clips we need to place, how many times we need to reposition the clip and how easy it is to grab the leaflets with the clip,” Dr. Olenchock points out.

“At other sites, the average time is about two hours. Ours is about 45 minutes. This speaks to the outstanding work of our heart valve team and the quality of imaging we get.”

Evera MRI

In the past, having a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) meant patients could not undergo an Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) exam, which uses a magnetic field and radio waves to take highly detailed images of organs and structures inside the body. Not any more, thanks to devices such as the Advisa MRI pacemaker and Evera MRI ICD manufactured by Medtronic.

“Around 2010, Medtronic released an entirely new pacemaker platform (Advisa MRI) with leads that disperse heat and filtering that would prevent the device from malfunctioning from the electrical field that’s created by the MRI magnet,” Dr. Traub explains.

Shortly after the device received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, SLUHN became the first hospital in the region to offer MRIs to patients who had this pacemaker implanted.

[ [ These new procedures,

devices and technologies align with St. Luke’s unwavering

commitment to excellence as it cares for the sick and injured.

The success of the Cardiac

Team is based on its true team approach to health care.

“In September of 2015, the first MRI-compatible ICD was released,” Dr. Traub says of the Evera MRI ICD. “Within 10 days of FDA approval, St. Luke’s implanted its first Evera MRI ICD. It’s our responsibility to offer our patients the best technology as quickly as possible.”

“There is no substitute for an MRI for imaging of the spine or soft tissue of the brain,” Dr. Traub says. The implant technique is exactly the same as the standard pacemaker and ICD. Eight weeks after the implant, patients can undergo MRIs. “We place MRI pacemakers and ICDs in all of our patients unless there is a compelling clinical or patient related reason to use a different device technology.”

St. Luke’s has placed hundreds of MRI compatible pacemakers and ICDs and performed dozens of MRIs on patients to-date.

These new procedures, devices and technologies align with St. Luke’s unwavering commitment to excellence as it cares for the sick and injured. The success of the Cardiac Team is based on its true team approach to health care.

“St. Luke’s University Health Network has 31 cardiologists at six different hospitals and 10 different offices,” Dr. Durkin says. “We are here to take care of the entire community and we have areas of sub-specialization that have enhanced our development over the past five years.

“Our structural heart program in which cardiologists and heart surgeons work together to do less-invasive and highly specialized procedures is on the forefront of that.

Every specialized cardiac procedure performed at any major university hospital in the country is available right here at St. Luke’s.”

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pets

Pet Health: Checkups Enhance Your Care

By Amanda Foster

N

ow is the perfect time to re-evaluate your current pet healthcare regimen. If you have not already, incorporate a “Wellness Checkup” as part of routine care. With greater emphasis on preventive medicine for pets, a biannual wellness checkup plays an important role in early diagnosis of preventable illnesses and diseases. Learn how to get the most out of your regular wellness checkups and minimize unexpected expenses.

Schedule wellness checkups every six months A wellness checkup, also called a “wellness exam”, is a modified version of the traditional annual veterinary examination. Updated to reflect the changing nature of pet care, wellness checkups take into account pet’s age faster than humans and are living longer lives. Notable health changes in dogs can develop in a relatively short period. Also, as dogs live longer, the risk of potential health conditions steadily increases. Reducing the interval between examinations increases your veterinarian’s ability to detect, diagnose, and propose treatment options in a timely fashion. In this way, regularly-scheduled wellness checkups play a significant role in improving the quality of your pet’s life.

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What to expect - questions your veterinarian may ask you A wellness checkup will generally consist of fundamental examinations including: identifying vaccination status, weight and general body condition, heart and respiratory rates, intestinal parasites (fecal examination), behavior and personality traits, as well as dental care needs. Your veterinarian will ask your questions to create and maintain an accurate medical history. A current medical history is one of the main tools your veterinarian uses to determine if a disease process is occurring in your dog. If your veterinarian detects something out of the ordinary, specific questions regarding a symptom may include: When did this symptom or sign first appear? Is it getting better or worse? Is the sign or symptom always present, or is it intermittent? Be prepared to assist your veterinarian. Monitor your pet and keep records of signs or atypical behavior. This information is valuable in making a proper diagnosis early in the course of a disease.

Work closely with your veterinarian and empower yourself with knowledge and confidence. Schedule regular wellness exams every six months and resolve to provide the best care for your pet.

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Local

goes local

Key West, Florida

By Diane Burns

H

ave the cloudy dreary days and the dark cold nights of winter gotten to you? Then put them all behind you and take a short getaway to the land of sandy beaches and bright sunny days in Key West, Florida.

The island is an artistic and unique place where you can be yourself, find yourself or just rejuvenate yourself. It has a “live and let live” attitude, tropical-like climate and what seems like an unending happy hour.

The island is only four miles long and two miles wide and is the southernmost tip of North America as denoted by the brightly colored buoy that marks the spot.

It is only 90 miles from Cuba and is one of the most photographed attractions in America.

Key West has something of interest for everyone. Whether you just want to relax in the sun on a beautiful beach, do a little sightseeing or shop, there are many options available to you. If being on the water attracts you, take a fishing trip to catch sailfish, tuna or marlin. Not so

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adventurous, cruise on a dolphin-watch boat and see these wonderful creatures up close and personal as they frolic in the blue, blue water. Or perhaps a snorkeling trip is more to your liking. You’ll be fascinated by the variety of fish you will encounter swimming in and out of the only live coral reef in North America.

Sightseers may discover a long lost shipwreck or visit the haunts of some of the most prolific writers of the 20th century. Visit the home of Ernest Hemmingway or Tennessee Williams.

All throughout the island you will enjoy the beautiful Victorian architecture that is part of Key West.

For the nature lover in you, visit the Nancy Forrester Secret Garden, a oneacre replica of a lush green rainforest, or the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservancy that features a 5,000 squarefoot glass-domed habitat for a large variety of butterflies.

Hungry after touring? Key West is a mecca for fantastic dining experiences with cuisine from around the world.

From the casual outdoor cafes to the upscale fine dining restaurants and bistros of Duval Street you will enjoy the cuisine of your choosing. The awardwinning restaurants of the island combine elegance with a flair for decadent fare.

So put the diet on hold for a while and enjoy some new and exciting dining experiences. After dinner, take in some of the entertainment the island has to offer.

At the end of the day meander down to the harbor and watch the incredible sunsets that can only be seen in Key West. They are reported to be the best you’ll ever see.

When you arrive home after your short getaway you’ll be amazed at how much more revitalized you feel. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce at: info@keywestchamber.org.

Diane Burns is a freelance writer currently residing in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.

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