Insight HOW
the Affordable Care Act
Issue 14
•
October 2012
WILL AFFECT PENNSYLVANIA
PHUN IN PHILADELPHIA Halloween Highlights! WHAT TO CONSIDER, WHEN CONSIDERING
EXECUTIVE BIO:
See Inside for Prizes!
David Orphanides
VACCINE TO HELP
Quit Smoking
DRESS TO IMPRESS:
NEW:
The Gym
Fall Fashion
PROPERTY TALK ON THE TOWN WITH JAMIE! NO EAR NO PROBLEM:
Advances in Medical Science October 2012•Insight 1
Editor’s Desk
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he leaves are changing colors everyone! This is the month of change — new seasons, new Halloween costumes, new us — should we so choose. I could probably spend about 10 pages on Halloween costume ideas but, don’t worry, I won’t. What costume we choose for one out of thirty-one days of this month is hardly as cool a question as what we choose to be for the other thirty days and thereon. Yes, I do, in fact, think the thought of future me and future you is “cool.” I’m a believer that people change, constantly — responding to our surroundings and life experiences. Anything “new” in my life has always excited me. Reinvention, forward movement, difference, change – these are words resonate with me; they are words I embrace. A lot of people shy away from new experiences. But, after living in five different cities in the past five years and with my upcoming wedding a blink of an eye away, I am excited about even more change that is about to hit my life. I know that it will mold me and carry me forward into the rest of my life and that unpredictability is calming. I can choose the me I want to be going forward. You all can also choose who you want to be going forward. We’ve got a month before the presidential election. Maybe this would be a good time to beef up on your politics and voice your political thoughts. Or, if fashion is your things, look through the biggest trends during fashion week and incorporate a whole new, on the trend look into your wardrobe. Whatever version of “you” you’re opting for, dive in head first! — Maria
Readers Respond to our September Issue: Last month you guys wrote an article about obesity versus overpopulation, I don’t think this is a one or the other type of situation. . . these are crucial issues in our society and going forward with our future. These are topics which both need heavy attention and from a political standpoint, I find these are issues which tie into our upcoming presidential election. — Tamika, South Philadelphia I truly enjoyed the feature: What’s up Philly! Having just moved here and taking on the role as a new mom, I was pleased to see suggestions from other parents and Philadelphia dwellers. I will be taking those things into consideration. — Abigail, Rittenhouse Square I’m sorry but I’m going to have to disagree with your article on asking a divorcee about divorce. Personally, I am a child of divorce and I would NEVER ask my parents for advice on my relationships. Those people can’t even be in the same room together, why they got married in the first place is beyond me…I have a feeling they aren’t the only ones like that and most people would not turn to an example like that for any advice, sorry guys — not with you there. — Dave, 27, Northern Liberties See your comment? Follow instructions on pg. 3 to win prizes! Respond to our September issue on our website (myinsightmag.com), email (insight@ myinsightmag.com), Facebook (My Insight Magazine) or tweet us (My Insight Magazine).
“One generation passeth away, and another generation cometh; but the earth abideth forever. . . The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to the place where he arose. . . The wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about unto the north; it whirleth about continually, and the wind returneth again according to his circuits. . . All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again.” — Ecclesiastes 2 Insight•October 2012
Our Team
Insight
Maria Goroshovsky Co-Founder/Editor
IN THIS ISSUE:
“Did perpetual happiness in the Garden of Eden maybe get so boring that eating the apple was justified?”
Editor’s Desk 2 Letter from the Editor Readers Respond to our September Issue 4 Prizes and Rewards
Luba Patlakh Editorial Director “Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”
Angele Douglas Russell Contributing Writer “No one is entitled to an opinion unless they know the facts.”
Olga Astreika Contributing Writer “My goal in life is to help people and have them happy.”
Alla Podolsky Graphic Designer “I am not that creative with words. Can I offer you a picture instead?”
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Entertainment and Media 18 Top Five Reasons to Go to the Movies in October 19 Celebs That Do Not Age! Halloween Recipe: Butterscotch Pumpkin Pudding Cake
20 Cost of Ratings: Celeb Judges 21 Eat Good Food: Rocket Cat Café 22 Royal Scandal Review: Kate Middleton Editionr 23 Favorites from NY Fashion Week 24 Dress to Impress: Fall Fashion Edition/Ladies and Gents
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Word on the Street 6 How the Affordable Care Act Will Affect Pennsylvania How Temporary Public Assistance Becomes Permanent 7 Ph-un in Philadelphia 8 Does Home Schooling Cause Difficulty with College Admission? Door to Door Scams 9 Community Spotlight: Beautiful Belts by BeltEnvy 10 Executive Bio: David Orphanides, Philadelphia Real Estate Attorney 12 Joe Frazier Statue Coming to Philadelphia Conversation Starters Insight Poll 13 Feature: What to Consider when Considering the GYM! 14 Are Jewish People Smarter? 15 The Dirtiest Jobs: Someone’s Gotta Do It Philly’s Hot Real Estate Market Healthy Living 16 Vaccine to Help Quit Smoking Snake Venom Flu Injections: to Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate? 17 Invisalingn: Brilliant or Not Worth It? The Positives + Negatives of In Vitro
Issue 14 • October 2012
Real Estate 25 Property Talk on the Town with Jamie!
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Sports and Athletics 26 Five Worst Trades in Sports History’ Deadly Concussions 27 Philadelphia Flyers Hockey, Phillies Baseball, Eagles Football, and Union Soccer Schedules Science and Technology 28 What Would Happen if the Earth Stopped Rotating? No Ear? No problem: Advances in Medical Science 29 Text Me When My Dog Is Too Hot? Nintendo’s WII U to Launch November 18 Career and Finance 30 The Best Time to Refinance Fast Growing Medical Careers in 2012 31 Using Loans to Eliminate Debt A Dose of Insight 32 Our Advice Column Horoscope 34 October Predictions
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Marketplace 35 Advertisement October 2012•Insight 3
Prizes and Rewards! We at Insight want to hear from all of our new and old friends! Send us an email and write to us on Facebook. Let us know what you think, what you want, or just how your day is going and get rewards for doing it!
Your Monthly Reward: Insight will look through all our email, as well as Facebook comments, messages and posts. We will select five comments, at random, to include in the upcoming issue. If you see your post, contact us with the post, the issue you saw it in, and your information within one week of the release of that issue and YOU WIN! What do you win? Well, every issue we will post our “Favorite Things.” These are little things that are new, cool and we feel everyone will enjoy. When you win the post challenge, you get to pick one of our “Favorite Things” from that issue and it’s yours! If, instead, you want to work towards our bigger “Play for Points” prizes, you can instead ask to add five points to your play for points account (see myinsightmag.com for more details). So, what are you waiting for? Come leave us a message!
Play for Points: We don’t want to be another magazine you gloss over in a hurry; we want to really interact with you in every section and page of Insight. In our attempt to really get you involved, we’ve set up a points game. Throughout the magazine you’ll see small sections that say “Play for Points.” Each section will have its own instruction on how you can email or Facebook us your answers or contributions and earn points. You can log in and keep a ‘point account,’ so to speak, on myinsightmag.com. You then can add up points to win the prizes that cost a point value ranging from 50 to 1,000 points. So earn enough points for a $20 gift card, or save as much as you can for a five day paid hotel in Miami, FL, or a new iPAD. See for even more prizes, your account and more information!
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Starbucks!
It’s getting chilly in Philly! Have a fall-themed drink from Starbucks on Insight! $20/Starbucks
2Jenny Craig!
Still fighting to keep the weight off? Visit Jenny Craig for a free consultation and get started with your weight loss program with $20 in Jenny Craig Bucks!
3
Halloween Adventure!
Shopping for Halloween essentials? We know it can get pricey! Here’s $20 to Halloween Adventure, your one stop Halloween shop! 4 Insight•October 2012
October 2012•Insight 5
AFFORDABLE CARE ACT
©iStockphoto.com
Word on the Street
HOW THE
WILL AFFECT PENNSYLVANIA
T
he Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), otherwise known as “Obamacare,” represents the most significant overhaul of the U.S. healthcare system since the passage of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965. The primary goal of the statute is to decrease the number of uninsured Americans and to reduce the overall cost of health care. But, what does this mean for Pennsylvanians? Supporters of the PPACA highlight many of the statute’s positive changes to insurance, including coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, as well as federal subsidies for those below the poverty level. In fact, the state has already seen significant federal grants, thanks to the PPACA, which provides early
How
Temporary Public Assistance Becomes Permanent
6 Insight•October 2012
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childhood support and counseling services for young mothers and families. However, some Pennsylvanians are opposed to the mandate, primarily because it requires individuals to purchase insurance if an employer or other insurance program does not already cover it. Increased household costs are the main concern, particularly in light of the financial hit many took with the recession. In June of this year, The Supreme Court upheld the statute’s constitutionality so the PPACA is unlikely to go anywhere, anytime soon. Let’s just hope it benefits citizens, more often than not.
ublic assistance programs differ from state to state. In Pennsylvania, the program, named the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), provides temporary cash assistance to needy families, specifically to pregnant women and families with dependent children, for a total of five years over the course of a lifetime. But, how is it that some are able to remain on public assistance for much longer? Turns out, if you are under-employed, can’t find a job, caring for a disabled person, or have a newborn, your benefits can be extended. Exceptions are also made for those who have a family member that’s been a victim of domestic violence and for those who have a physical or mental condition that prevents them from working. Unfortunately, a recent audit revealed than lax eligibility procedures, insufficient supervision, and inadequate oversight has led to over $1 billion or more in misspent money. Simply put, many of those receiving public assistance may not qualify any longer but there are inadequate procedures to discover this. Obviously, the solution to the problem of misspent funds is better oversight of these programs. Taxpayer dollars fund the majority of these programs and someone needs to be held accountable. So, the next time anyone complains about how people on welfare are costing taxpayers so much money, just inform them that the “people on welfare” aren’t the problem; the ones overseeing the programs are.
Ph-un in Philadelphia!
Philadelphia’s got a lot going on in September. Insight magazine is here to make sure you are in the center of all of the action! Check out the shows, events, and exhi-bitions going on now and coming soon.
10/06. More than 150 teams race fiberglass dragon boats, complete with heads and tails, on a 500-meter
course on the Schuylkill River during the Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival. The annual fall event draws thousands of participants and spectators. (610) 642-2333, philadragonboatfestival.com.
10/06–07, 13–14. During the 13th annual Philadelphia Open Studio Tours, visitors can see local artists of all mediums in their studios, found in neighborhoods throughout the city. (215) 546-7775, philaopenstudios.com.
10/07. OutFest, part of the National Coming Out Day Festival, is the largest event of its kind in the world. (215) 875-9288, phillypride.org.
10/18–28. The 21st Philadelphia Film Festival showcases the best in independent and foreign cinema
in theaters and venues throughout Philadelphia. (267) 239-2941, filmadelphia.org.
Halloween Themed 10/28. Friday. Happy Hour Pub Crawl. RedZone. 10/28. Friday. Heaven & Hell Halloween Party. Lucky Strike Lanes. 10/29. Saturday. Halloweekend Pub Crawl. Red Zone. 10/29. Saturday. Day of The Dead Costume Party. Raven Lounge. 10/29. Saturday. Walk the Dead Carpet Halloween. Finnigan’s Wake
Want to advertise in Insight? Visit myinsightmag.com to learn how. October 2012•Insight 7
DOES HOME SCHOOLING CAUSE DIFFICULTY WITH COLLEGE ADMISSION?
©iStockphoto.com
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he increasing amount of students being home schooled or in attendance at cyber schools is rapidly increasing. Home schooled students are typically taught by either parents or an instructor at home and cyber schooling is done online over the computer, without any face to face contact with teachers or other pupils. But if your child wants to later attend a university or college away from home, what are some advantages and disadvantages students may face when applying to college after years of home-schooling? Some may say that colleges would prefer to admit students who have attended a regular school over one that was home schooled. However, this is not exactly true. In order for a child to learn on their own without a teacher and a classroom in front of them, they must be self-motivated to learn. Ivy League colleges look for those criteria. If anyone can prove they are motivated to learn it’s those students who were home schooled or attended cyber schooling and achieved good grades on their own. When applying to college, a home schooled student is still required to take the SAT’s, just like a child who attended a regular school does. Depending on which college a student is applying to there may also be entrance exams. Entrance exams check a student’s skills and knowledge; based off of what the student scores they will be placed into classes of their skill level. Not only are colleges more likely to admit a home schooled child, statistics show that home schooled kids are more likely to graduate from college, have a higher GPA, and also perform better on the SAT’s. 8 Insight•October 2012
Door to Door SCAMS
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ver fallen victim to a door-to-door scam? The unfortunate reality is that these scams are on the rise. In 2010 there were 600 complaints of doorto-door scams in the U.S, later in 2011 the number more than doubled to 1300, and the numbers are proving to be higher for 2012 (no exact number was noted at this time). Consumers are complaining that the sellers were extremely aggressive and used high pressure selling techniques. If that wasn’t bad enough, these consumers never received any of the items they were pressured into buying! Often, these scammers will question something such as the safety of your family or home in order to get you worried and, therefore, more susceptible to their scheming. Items that are being sold range from security systems to cleaning supplies, even produce. Next time someone tries to sell you anything at your door, just tell them that you would like to do some research on their company before making any type of purchase right then and there.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT:
By Olga Astreika
Beautiful Belt’s by BeltEnvy
B Belt Envy
Buckles for a cause
elt’s can be a great accessory for men and women alike. You can wear a belt with a pair of jeans or with a cocktail dress to spruce it up, but what happens when you get bored of the same old belt buckle? That’s when you shop at BeltEnvy! Three years ago Jackie Fagan became interested in designing belts and began creating belt buckles with hope to someday use them to raise money for a good cause. Fagan officially created her company BeltEnvy in 2011. Later, she had one of her friends and fellow designers Nicole Potnick join her on her exciting journey of making belt’s for a cause. Since the launch of her company, Fagan and Potnick have created belts for many charities and causes. The ladies are firm believers in giving back and raising awareness for various foundations. BeltEnvy has joined with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, in support for childhood cancer, as well as, various breast cancer events where they created many different varieties of belts for them. They have created blue ribbon buckles for the child abuse foundation and have also worked with Laurel House, where they created buckles to support victims of domestic violence. One of their current projects is making “buckles for a cause” helping raise awareness for autism. “I would see my friends and family out and about, and instead of noticing their new hair cut or cute shoes my eyes would immediately go to their belt,” said Fagan. Over the next five years she plans to expand her company by including new cuffs and pendant designs in additional to her stylish and ‘fund-raising’ belts. Some goals that Fagan has for her company are to be represented at high-end boutiques or department stores. She also hopes to continue making belts for different charities and raise awareness for new causes; she hopes to see continuous growth in her company.
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f you are interested in checking out all of the beautiful belts by BeltEnvy you can check out their online boutique at beltenvy.com or call them at 610-613-8579. You can also find BeltEnvy on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest under the username BeltEnvy. Their belt buckles are currently for sale at Skirt, Coco Blue, Gingy’s and Fiore. Their sales team is also currently working on locations in Los Angeles, Charleston, and Dallas as they emerge on their wonderful BeltEnvy Journey.
October 2012•Insight 9
EXECUTIVE BIO:
DAVID ORPHANIDES
Philadelphia Real Estate Attorney By Luba Patlakh
D
avid Orphanides is a civic-minded real estate attorney and entrepreneur, husband and father, who has and will continue to invest his time, effort and money to hopefully help Philadelphia realize its true potential. David’s father (an immigrant from Greece) and mother met in Manhattan, New York, which is where he was born. His family later moved to Bucks County, Pennsylvania (where his mother was raised) when he was very young. David received a degree in History/Political Science from Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA for his undergraduate studies and later secured his juris doctor in 1988 from George Washington University National Law Center. After graduating, it was not easy to find a job, but David Orphanides found ways to spend his time “I was living (and skiing) in Vail, Colorado and owning and operating a painting and light construction business back in Bucks County during the recession of the late 1980’s and early 1990’s (a nearly impossible time for a law school graduate to find a job), I secured my first legal job in 1991 working for the City of Philadelphia Law Department. During my tenure there, I worked in both the Code Enforcement and Claims Units.” After leaving the City of Philadelphia Law Department in the late 1990’s to work with several telecommunication consulting companies, working for the various national mobile phone companies to develop and expand their respective networks, David continued to provide both legal (zoning approvals and lease negotiations) and project management network services to several of the wireless providers. “I recently ran the development and launch of Cricket Wireless’ Philadelphia,” he told Insight. In 2006 David formed a partnership in Philadelphia with two other Philadelphia real estate attorneys and by 2008 that firm disbanded and David formed my own law firm – David G. Orphanides & Associates, P.C. “The practice focus of my firm is in the areas of real estate, most notably zoning, land use and leasing, as well as landlord-tenant, municipal (most particularly matters involving my prior clients, the City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections and Department of Health) and construction related matters. We are an energetic, thriving client focused practice that has been and continues to be intimately and deeply involved in the incredible real estate and business development boom that our City has experienced in recent years and which it will most surely continue to enjoy in the years to come.” Just over a year ago, after several years of planning and development, David, along with two partners, opened “Fare,” a restaurant bar in the Fairmount section of Philadelphia, that emphasizes organic, local, sustainable and crafted food and drink. Just over a year ago David was married to his beautiful wife, Stephanie, and they now have a bright and happy son, Sebastian Dale. The Orphanides family lives in the Graduate Hospital section of the City. Inisight Magazine: What has been the most challenging project for you? David Orphanides: Probably one of the more challenging projects of late involved the zoning of a single family home on a 10 Insight•October 2012
parcel of land situated adjacent to the well known “Autumn Mural” in the Bella Vista section of Philadelphia. There were a lot of conflicting personal, community and City interests involved and the case garnered national attention. Generally speaking, nearly any development project in the Point Breeze section of Philadelphia, an area seemingly struggling with the its redevelopment, presents unique challenges of a nature and degree not seen or experienced in most other sections of the City. IM: In your opinion, how has Philadelphia real estate change in the past 5 years? DO: I think because the City of Philadelphia was, and to some extent continues to be, underdeveloped and undervalued, at least as compared to other cities in our country of a similar size, we were not affected as much by the economic downturn. There was and continues to be more than enough opportunities in the realm of real estate here in Philadelphia. The City is still booming, at least in my opinion! IM: What is your favorite thing about your job? DO: I love helping and serving clients that want to do good projects, projects that help my clients financially but also help the communities in which they are located. I love helping to work things out between the development side and the community side of a project. Accordingly, I represent a number of Philadelphia operating in a manner that’s consistent with this interest and desire. I love it when I can walk, ride or drive down a street here in Philadelphia and tell my wife, Stephanie, that I helped get that cool looking building built or that great business opened. It makes me very proud and really gets me buzzed. I also love the personal connections all of this creates for me all over the City – it helps make Philadelphia feel like that big little town that I enjoy so much. And, of course, being a wannabe architect, I love the fact that I get to be so involved in the design and development of buildings in our City. IM: What is your favorite part of Philadelphia? DO: If you are talking area of the City, I would of course have to say either Rittenhouse Square or Fairmount Park. Having grown up in Bucks County, it gives me that nature fix that I require to be happy. I love the energy that all the people enjoying both places create as well, so much positive energy. [In terms of the city’s aspect] I would have to say how mixed our City is – work and live in the same areas (very few downtowns are like ours), different races and creeds in the same areas (next door to each other), etc. I’ve been to a lot of cities in America and we’re in a very limited class in these respects. IM: Who are the hardest people to work with in this industry? DO: For different reasons it’s kind of a tie between the City and the communities. The City in the respect that although it’s come an extremely long way since I worked for it, there is still work to be done and effort to be made in order for it to be more consistent, responsive and, in the end, more citizen friendly. The communities in the respect that you have so many conflicting interests and that whether it’s a new building or a new business, you are talking about peoples’ homes and neighborhoods and that is a very personal and passionate thing for these folks who are becoming more and more involved. I can’t blame them, though. I’m the same way in my neighborhood! IM: Anything else we should know about you/your services? DO: Whether it’s my law practice or my restaurant, I always strive to treat my customers not just how I’d like to be treated, but how they’d like to be treated. We work hard to provide a great experience and I think we’re succeeding in this as most of our business — both with my law practice and my restaurant – is from and by word of mouth. The best form of advertising and the best compliment a business can receive! October 2012•Insight 11
Conversation Starters:
JOE FRAZIER STATUE
] Several cosmetic companies have introduced caviar as an ingredient into their anti-aging skincare range.
Coming to Philadelphia
] Jalapeno was the first pepper to be taken into space. ] Bill Cosby has been a spokesman for Jell-O since 1974. ] Venus and Earth are so similar in size that they are considered twins.
Insight Poll: Who do you think is more reckless? Amanda Bynes
39%
Lindsay Lohan Both are equal
48% 13%
Got any other suggestions? Let us know on our website (myinsightmag.com), email (insight@myinsightmag. com), Facebook (My Insight Magazine) or Twitter (My Insight Magazine). And, vote for next month’s poll!
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f you want to see a statue of “Smokin’ Joe” in Philly, then you had better chip in. Mayor Nutter and members of the late boxing great’s family announced a fundraising campaign to build a statue honoring Frazier near the three sports stadiums in South Philadelphia. “Joe Frazier was undoubtedly one of the greatest heavyweight champions ever,” Nutter said. “He fought in a style that truly embodies the city of Philadelphia.” Frazier, who beat Muhammad Ali to win the 1971 heavyweight title during a famously bitter rivalry, died of liver cancer last year. He moved to Philadelphia as a teenager, after living in New York and South Carolina. Nutter said it will cost $150,000 to build and maintain the statue, which will be placed outside the Xfinity Live! dining complex by the stadiums. Xfinity will put up $25,000 to kick off the fundraising, officials said. Nutter has specified that there are no plans to use city money. Family and supporters will serve on a committee to select the design and oversee the process. Nutter said a sculptor will be hired by the end of the year, with a goal of completion before the end of 2013.
Want to advertise in Insight? Visit myinsightmag.com to learn how. 12 Insight•October 2012
What to consider when considering the GYM! By Luba Patlakh
T
he summer is fading away, but you certainly don’t want your sexy bod to! Want to get started on your fitness plan? Don’t let the cold winter months keep you from keeping your good form, Join a gym! Of course, that’s easier said than done; so we want to help breakdown what to consider when considering joining a gym. First things first, location!! You must be able to easily access your gym or you will NEVER go. Similar to a job you want to be able to get to your gym quickly, so we suggest a location no further than 5-7 miles from your home, this way it’s never too far out of reach. Another two major pointers to look for are cleanliness and operating machines. Nothing is worse than going to the beach only to find that all the sand is gone. Many gyms sell you on their grand amount of machines or big pool, then you go and find out of order signs or pool closed, BIG BUMMER! In life there tend to be enough things letting you down, the gym should NOT be one of them. Third, you want a gym with friendly staff. Don’t you just hate when you go somewhere and the employee there is doing you a favor by doing their job. Those people will only ruin your mood and your workout. Leaving the gym should make you feel fresh and strong, not leave you frustrated. See that you are greeted with a smile and hello when you check out your potential gym. This will only enhance your experience.
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TOP TIPS iles further than 5-7 m Find a location no r too this way it’s neve from your home, far out of reach. is m of your choice Make sure the gy erating machines. clean and has op ndly staff will only A gym with a frie perience. enhance your ex
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October 2012•Insight 13
Are Jewish People
Smarter?
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ave you ever felt as if your Jewish friend was smarter than you? Research shows that he or she may actually be smarter! Ashkenazi Jews or Jews of European decent have proven to be more intelligent than your average American. The average IQ score for someone of the Jewish religion is seven to fifteen points higher than that of a non-Jew. Dr. Charles Murray, an American social theorist states that the higher intelligence found in Jewish people may be due to their genes. Since the second half of the 20th century, 29 of the Nobel Peace Prizes that were awarded have been to recipients such as Albert Einstein, Boris Pasternak, and Milton Friedman, who all happen to be Jewish. With that being said, less than 3% of the U.S population is made up of Jews, yet they have won more than 25% of the Noble Peace Prizes that have been awarded since 1950. It has also been shown that Jewish student have a higher affinity for securing scholarships. Now this is not meant to say that Jewish people are the smartest human beings on the planet. Everyone has the power to accomplish anything they set their mind to. You want to be a doctor, scientist or astronaut? We say go for it! We just wanted to share the facts, have an opinion about this? Share it with us. Website: myinsightmag.com, email: insight@myinsightmag.com, Facebook: My Insight Magazine, or tweet us at My Insight Magazine. Albert Einstein Milton Friedman
Boris Pasternak 14 Insight•October 2012
The Dirtiest Jobs: Someone’s Gotta Do It
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f you like your nails to stay manicured and your hair to stay immaculate, this article is not for you! We are profiling the top three dirtiest jobs in the world.
Sewer Cleaner Think about it. You flush your toilet and the waste goes away. But, where does it go? And, if it gets stuck, who unclogs it? Well, that’s the job of a sewer cleaner. While the more modernized civilizations have been aided with machinery to do the dirty work, most countries have to use man-labor to do the really dirty work, by hand.
©iStockphoto.com
Oil Rig Workers Remember that gas you pumped into your car this week? An oilrig worker likely worked to dig the oil for that gas…and got really dirty in the process. Although most oilrig workers can make up to $250,000 a year, the jobs are very dangerous and very dirty. Shower, anyone?
Disaster Cleanup Hurricane Katina. September 11th Attacks. Tornadoes in Joplin, MO. Ever think about a disaster, natural or not, and wonder how it was cleaned up? Crews, hired post-disaster, are hired to do the unthinkable: sewage cleanup, dispose of dead animals, restore beaches from ocean waste; the list goes on and on.
Philly’s Hot Real Estate Market
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ecession? What recession? The real estate market in Philadelphia is booming and showing no signs of slowing down. During the first six months of 2012, there has been a 12.7% increase in sales of homes over last year, ranking Philadelphia fourth in the nation of booming real estate markets. Within the city, there are several booming hot spots. The Northern Liberties and Fishtown areas have seen exponential growth in the past year, with home prices averaging right at $285,000. Also, the Graduate Hospital area is experiencing a construction boom, with home prices going from $200,000 all the way to $2,000,000. As always, a vibrant real estate market is a good sign of economic recovery and Philadelphia does not seem to be slowing down. October 2012•Insight 15
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ost people still light up every day and just cannot put that cigarette out and kick their bad to the curb. Many try, but say it’s just impossible; since there are contenders who want to put can’t seem to quit, a new vaccine may just be the thing that people need to finally break their smoking habits. This magical vaccine contains genes which carry antibodies that neutralize nicotine before it reaches the brain and has the opportunity to trigger the pleasure of smoking for addicts. So far the vaccine has only been tested on mice, but research on people is scheduled to begin in the next two years. When mice were given the vaccine, as many as 85% of them showed results with no effect on their behaviors, mood swings, or blood pressure. However, it may be tough to prove these results on people. Many previous researchers have worked on mice for similar vaccines, but failed to show results in humans. Many people have tried to quit smoking even with the help of prescription drugs such as Chantix, but ended up lighting up again within six months. Researchers believe that if this vaccine shows effect in humans the way it did in mice, it will be a major advance in helping addicts quit smoking. If results are proven in humans, the vaccine is expected to show up on the market in about five years.
SNAKE
VENOM
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ho would have ever thought that something as dangerous as snake venom could actually be used to save human lives and treat certain diseases? Researchers have found a new snake toxin called denmotoxin, a toxin which comes from the venom of the mangrove cat-snake. The hope for these toxins is that they will one day help treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Denmotoxin has also shown potential in reversing the binding of venom neurotoxins (a poison which acts on the nervous system). Maybe this new information can help those who fear snakes leave their fears, but I wouldn’t hold my breath! 16 Insight•October 2012
FLU INJECTIONS:
to Vaccine or Not to Vaccine?
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ach year, approximately 230,000 Americans develop complications from the flu; over ten percent ofthose people die from the disease. While the flu shot can prevent the disease, there are some things to consider before getting one. One very big consideration is the effectiveness of the vaccine itself. A recent study of current vaccines in the United States found that they are only about 59% effective in healthy adults between the ages of 18-65; its effectiveness was even lower for vulnerable groups, such as children, the sick, and the elderly. This is largely because the vaccine is only effective against selected strains of the flu and it is possible that the strain a person contracts isn’t the strain that they are protected against. Aside from its effectiveness, other things to consider are whether you are in groups that are at high risk for contracting the flu, including those who are in constant contact with others, those with compromised immune systems, and pregnant women. Side effects are another consideration. They include soreness at the injection site, fever, and aches. However, these side effects may be miniscule when compared with the big bad flu; you decide!
©iStockphoto.com
Healthy Living
Vaccine TO HELP QUIT SMOKING
The POSITIVES + NEGATIVES of IN VITRO
INVISALIGN: Brilliant or Not Worth It?
ŠiStockphoto.com
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oday is seems like everyone is looking for a way to straighten their teeth, yet veneers (super pricey) and braces (not appealing after the age of 12) really aren’t cutting it anymore. Along came something called Invisalign, an invisible alternative to braces which is worn by the patient for 20-22 hours a day in twoweek increments, then changing their trays every two weeks. Sounds simple, but is it effective? With a pretty high price tag, (most orthodontist/dental offices charge around $5,000) you might want to be sure if Invisalign is truly worth it! Many people have not yet learned about the benefits of Invisalign or how it works and is maintained. One big benefit of Invisalign is that it is the easiest tooth alignment system. It has become a popular method because of the good results obtained from this procedure. It is more effective than the other traditional methods of teeth alignment such as braces. It is an excellent solution for adults who want to have straighter teeth, but do not want to look like children by having large, bulky metal braces fixed onto their teeth. Invisalign is currently the best tooth alignment procedure that is available. This is largely due to the fact that it does not have any side effects on the teeth. It does not cause any root shortening or dental decay, and the success of the device is dependent on the commitment of the wearer. If you do not use it correctly, it will not give the desired results. Sharecare.com mentions that there is a 50% success rate, as the other 50% of people do not commit fully to their treatment and plan. Other dental websites state a 95% success rate, so it truly depends on your dedication. Happy Smiling!
T
he Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that approximately 6.1 million women in the United States have difficulty getting pregnant or staying pregnant, approximately ten percent of the female population. One of the most popular treatments for infertility is in vitro fertilization (IVF), a process where an egg is fertilized by sperm outside of the body. Approximately 47,000 babies are born as a result of this procedure in the United States each year, with the success rate of up to 35% for women under the age of 35. In terms of costs, the average price tag for an IVF treatment is $12,000 for one cycle; that price includes drugs, ultrasounds, monitoring costs, and blood work. Unfortunately, many insurance companies do not cover the costs of this treatment but other countries have lower costs for the treatments, with the lowest quotes coming from The Netherlands and Iran. Obviously, the major positive takeaway from investing in IVF is the birth of a healthy newborn. But there are some risks involved, including multiple births, a slight increased risk of genetic disorders in the child, infections in the body of the mother, and ovarian hyper-stimulation syndromes in the mother. While these conditions are rare, they should be factor into the decision to have an IVF treatment.
October 2012•Insight 17
Entertainment & Media
TOP
1
5
REASONS to Go to the Movies in October
10/5—The Paperboy
This erotic thriller is set in 1969 and follows a young man (Zac Efron) who returns to his small Florida hometown to help his reporter brother uncover the truth about a man on death row that may have been wrongly convicted. In the process, he falls for the convict’s lover, expertly played by Nicole Kidman. Matthew McConaughey and John Cusack round out this amazing cast.
2
10/5—Taken 2
Liam Neeson (playing CIA agent, Bryan Mills) returns to open up a serious can of whoop ass. Set in Istanbul, Neeson now requires the help of his daughter (played by Maggie Grace) in rescuing him from the associates of the villains he killed the first time around when saving her. Something tells me Neeson will handle himself just fine in this action packed sequel.
3
10/5—Pitch Perfect
The film stars Anna Kendrick and centers on an all-girls college a capella group that is in the process of rebuilding in order to defeat the rival all-boys group. The movie is a cross between old guilty pleasures like Bring it On and Step Up and newer ones like Glee. The main attraction, however, is Rebel Wilson’s impeccable comedic timing and sense of humor. She is, in my opinion, the reason to see this movie. 18 Insight•October 2012
4
10/12—Seven Psychopaths
This dark and twisty, masterful comedy follows a screenwriter (Colin Farrell) struggling for inspiration for his script, Seven Psychopaths, who gets drawn into the dog kidnapping schemes of his oddball friends (Sam Rockwell and Christopher Walken). Things take a turn for the worse when a gangster’s (Mickey Rourke) mutt goes missing.
5
10/26—Cloud Atlas
If the visually stimulating, long as anything trailer didn’t convince you that this is a must-see then the outstanding performances of Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugo Weaving, Susan Sarandon and Jim Broadbent will! More than following a specific plot line, the film embraces complexity and explores how the actions and consequences of individual lives impact one another throughout the past, the present and the future. Action, mystery and romance weave dramatically through the story as one soul is shaped from a killer into a hero and a single act of kindness ripples across centuries to inspire a revolution in the distant future. Each member of the ensemble appears in multiple roles as the stories move through time.
CELEBS THAT
1
DO NOT AGE!
2
1. ELIJAH WOOD, still looking like the little boy we all remember in films like Flipper, 31 year old Wood is a truly immortal. 3 4
2. JENNIFER CONNELLY, despite all the babies she’s popped out and 5 decades worth of movies she’s starred in, Connelly, age 41 is gorgeous! 3. KEANU REEVES, now 48 years old, has looked the same pretty much since his debut performance in Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. 4. HALLE BERRY, former bond girl and bombshell extraordinaire. Berry is 46 years old, going on 25.
Halloween Recipe
5. IMAN, one of the most famous supermodels of the 1980s and wife of David Bowie. She is currently 56 years old.
Butterscotch Pumpkin Pudding Cake Prep Time: 15min. Cook Time: 1hr. 10min. Ready In: 1hr 40min. Ingredients: • Cooking Spray • 1 (18.25 oz) package white cake mix • 1 cup canned pure pumpkin • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant butterscotch pudding mix • 4 eggs, beaten • ¼ cup water • ¼ cup canola oil • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice Directions 1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees Cº). Spray a 10-inch fluted tube pan (such as a Bundt®) with cooking spray. 2. Mix white cake mix, pumpkin, butterscotch pudding mix, eggs, water, canola oil, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the batter is smooth. Pour batter into prepared cake pan. 3. Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out with moist crumbs, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Let cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a serving dish to remove cake from pan.
October 2012•Insight 19
Cost of Ratings: Celeb Judges
“A
merican Idol” is seemingly in its fiftieth season and it is nowhere near alone in the “we are a talented country so let’s put everyone on TV” type contest shows we have on air. Probably because we are nationally accustomed to these contest shows, we need a little more jazzy hands and “oooh, ahh” appeal to the whole thing in order to offer good ratings to these networks. This largely explains why reality television competitions have turned to the sparkle of celebrity judges to bring in ratings again. Simply seating Paula Abdul, a huge recording artist … from the eighties, may have been enough in the beginning but America is simply not impressed. So what has happened? “The Voice” snagged up to the moment stars Cee Lo Green, Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera and Blake Shelton; “American Idol” took on Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nikki Minaj after shaking of Jennifer Lopez and Steve Tyler; The “X Factor” is showing off judges Britney Spears and Demi Lovato; even the short lived “Duets” snagged Kelly Clarkson. The new injection of star power should be enough to hold up the ratings for a little while longer. But, what happens when we bore of that too? Perhaps we will, as a country, move on from the reality contest machine. Until then, however, the celebs don’t always seem to be doing enough good to warrant their seats at the judging panel. “The Voice” judges truly do seem concerned with pitch, the rich musical history of this country, tone and all things singing-related. But, that is not always the case. Former “Idol” judge, Jennifer Lopez regularly revealed her lack of musical knowledge, confessing her lack of familiarity with the catalogs of Ryan Adams, Dave Matthews and even Jimi Hendrix. Steven Tyler, similarly, spent most of his time on “Idol” promoting his books and singles. With the new batch of “Idol” judges, we don’t know whether they will be good judges of talent or coaches. What we know is they’ll bring in ratings because, after all, we will tune in.
20 Insight•October 2012
Eat Good Food:
ROCKET CAT CAFÉ
By Jordan Swavely ummy, fresh, and local treats, strong coffee, and lovely musical beats take over your senses as soon as you step foot through the rustic coffee shop door. The Rocket Cat Café is located at Frankford Avenue and Norris Streets on the skirt of Fishtown. Rocket Cat, or what locals nicknamed it as “RC”, grills all of their flavorful ingredients right in front of you—right next to their coffee machinery. It’s pleasing to sit and chat with the approachable baristas on the unique wooden bar chairs designed from vintage machinery while they make up your whole wheat everything bagel with real scrambled egg, tasty tofu spread, and delicious avocado slices. RC’s food is grown locally at Weaver’s Orchards in Morgantown, Pennsylvania—a neat place to go to pick your own fruit. The manager makes the unique, homemade spreads for bagels, sandwiches, and wraps right there in the back of the coffee shop and sends the spreads up to the front of house when ready. The coffee beans, on the other hand, are from Green Street Coffee Roasters. This company is dedicated to finding the best fair trade and organic coffee from around the world. The baked goods are from local—some vegan—bakeries in the area. It’s a great place to read books, for local college students to study for their classes and get homework done, and to even just relax within good company whilst eating a scrumptious cowboy cookie. Also look around the cozy atmosphere to glance up at the interesting art pieces hung up on the white washed walls. Every first Friday of the month, RC holds openings to celebrate the art that changes month-to-month on these walls, giving RC a different look each month. Come in and try some delicious food and drinks from Rocket. Their organic coffee will energize you throughout your hardworking day whether you want to hang out for a while, or run errands in the city!
Y
2001 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA. (215) 739-4526
October 2012•Insight 21
R oya l Scanda l R e vi e w K
n o i t i d E n o t e l d d i ate M ©iStockphot o.com
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ublic figures tend to have the teensiest fraction of the privacy us ordinary citizens have, if even that. Long lensed cameras catch them on every hidden island, at each of their dozens of weddings and partying on diddy’s yacht. Most of us just assume that celebs sacrifice their privacy at the alter of fame the second we learn their names, privacy laws be damned. Well, that’s not how Buckinham palace sees it, and certainly not what the Duke and Dutchess of Cambridge thought when they saw Kate Middleton’s “unmentionable parts” being splattered across the French edition of the tabloid Closer. The official royal reaction was swift and decisive, issuing a statement calling the photo expose “grotesque” and “unjustifiable.” Buckingham palace added that “The incident is reminiscent of the worst excesses of the press and paparazzi during the life of Diana, Princess of Wales, and all the more upsetting to The Duke and Duchess for being so…” Soon after, Middleton’s sued, through law firm, Harbottle & Lewis (pro bono), sought damages for the egregious invasion of privacy and an injunction from further publication of the sunbathing pictures. They also filed a criminal complaint in France against the paparazzo who took the photos. They were especially quick to act, to stop an further publications from publishing a more inclusive display of photos. The royal drama in these photos is not the nudity in and of itself, or the question of whether public figures’ private moments are fair game. Instead, it is in the UK approach to the press’ invasion of royal private life since Diana’s death. Since that time, the paparazzi offered greater deference in their royal coverage, especially to Prince William himself. That deference is why the paparazzo touting Middelton’s pictures was unable to sell them to any British tabloid. No UK publication would print them. The House of Windsor is more livid about this than any other event. Victoria Arbiter, ABC News Royal Contributor, explained that even mentioning Princess Diana’s name as a point of comparison to this situation is indicative of how infuriated they are. Queen Elizabeth II rarely mentions Diana because she famously caused so much trouble for her inlaws, both before and after her death in 1997. And Prince William seldom reminds the press that he is Diana’s son because he thinks it a cheap way to earn sympathy points. So, that the palace even mentioned Diana speaks volumes about the anger of the royals. Thus far, the royals have gotten a temporary reprieve when the French publication removed the photos from its site. We will see how the legal proceedings unfold. 22 Insight•October 2012
October 2012•Insight 22
Olivia Wilde at Ralph Lauren on Sept. 13, 2012
Olympic gold medalist Ryan Lochte at Ralph Lauren on Sept. 13, 2012
Minka Kelly at Jenny Packham on Sept. 11, 2012
Dania Ramirez at the BCBG show on Sept. 5, 2012
Christina Ricci and Brad Goreski at the Elle Fashion show on Sept. 7, 2012
AnnaSophia Robb at the Jason Wu show on Sept. 7, 2012
Stacy Keibler attends the Marchesa spring 2013 fashion show
Olivia Palermo at the Peter Som show on Sept. 7, 2012
Kelly Osborn at the Chris Benz show, Sept. 10, 2012
Joe Zee at the Nicholas K Show
Camilla Belle at the Michael Kors show on Sept. 12, 2012
Ricky Martin backstage at the Marc Jacobs show on Sept. 10, 2012
Favorites from NY Fashion Week 2012 Michelle Trachtenberg at Badgley Mischka on Sept. 11, 2012
N
ew York Fashion Week 2012 was host to countless A+ designs. But, some of our favorite looks were from all the glamour-puss celebs sitting in the audiences. Here is our “best of the best” list. Should be a good enough serving of fashion to tide you over until awards season!
October 2012•Insight 23
Dress to Impress
FALL FASHION EDITION/LADIES & GENTS Old Navy graphic waffle-knit tee
1
Men
Tis’ the season of leaves and breeze!
Summer is now in the rear and the colder months are getting near … what will you pull out of your wardrobe to wear? Never fear! Insight Magazine is here (rhyming) and ready to have you looking your best!
Women
1. GRAPHIC BONANZA: Graphic EVERYTHING is in! — Knits, T’s to layer, and pullover sweaters are always a fall must-have, but this time around, things are getting a little edgier. The classic knits and sweaters are still cool, but what you’ll want to be wearing is something with an even cooler graphic. Pair fall’s graphic essential with anything from (ladies) simple or printed pants to a miniskirt and (guys) rugged jeans or black slacks, for a look that’ll make a statement but is still practical.
H&M merino wool jumper
Proenza Schouler embroideredbird sweatshirt
Women
2. THE ANKLE BOOT! You want to stay comfortable, but also pair your outfit with the best accessories for your feet … SHOES, in this case BOOTS! Ankle boots are the way to go this season, they aren’t lumpy, they’ll keep you warm and you can even wear thick socks with them on a cold fall day. Nordstrom autumn cashmere cableknit cardigan
24 Insight•October 2012
3. CABLE-KNIT SWEATER: No and’s, if’s or but’s about it … this is a MUST for your wardrobe. The cable-knit sweater or cardigan is super multi-functional and can be worn with a variety of clothes from your laid back jeans or as an accompaniment to a dressier look.
Women
Ash Bowie wedge sneakers. Robert Wayne Resolve Rodeo leather ankle men’s boots
Men
2 Antik high-heel ankle boot
Mod Men: burgundy oxblood beatle boots
Men
Doublju men’s turtle neck cable-knit sweater
C by Bloomingdale’s cashmere luxe cable-knit sweater
3 Dolce&Gabbana Ombre cable-knit sweater.
with Jamie!
Nice to meet you! rior to joining Addison Real Estate, I worked for the Public House Investment Group as Marketing and Sales Coordinator. I coordinated special events for their 3 center city Philadelphia restaurants and was involved in all areas of marketing and sales. My position with Public House required extensive networking and daily interaction with individuals from Jamie Reibenbach numerous businesses, firms and organizations throughout the Philadelphia area. Through this experience, I was able to develop enduring professional relationships that are an integral part of what I do today in my current position as a real estate agent with Addison. I have always considered myself a “people person” and I truly enjoy getting to know and working with individuals from all walks of life. Establishing relationships based on honesty, trust and integrity is a vital part of what being a real estate professional means to me. I try to relate to my clients on a personal level so I can help them make well informed decisions about where they would like to live, and I gain great satisfaction from introducing them to all of the new and exciting areas of Philadelphia that they may otherwise be unfamiliar with. In my opinion, a good realtor is someone who helps their clients explore and understand their own needs and desires when it comes to finding their perfect living space. This is an aspect of the home buying process that is all too often overlooked and taken for granted. As a native of Philadelphia, I feel that this city has more to offer in terms of livability than any other city in this country. It has the perfect combination of “small town” feel coupled with “big city” glamour, culture and excitement. I take the time everyday to stop and notice people throughout the city just going about their daily lives. It is this objectivity that has given me such a great appreciation for all Philadelphia has to offer and I welcome the opportunity to share my enthusiasm for this amazing city with you! I would like take a moment to talk about a Fabulous Property I have listed for sale in the true heart of Center City. The Ellington Building is building fantastic due to its
P
location, professional staff, and a well established condominium, in all its meaning. This corner unit is over 1000 square feet of luxury living; breathtaking views, boasting an opened space living area, two full bathrooms and 2 bedrooms. I am a huge advocate of this area and am so excited in all of the development soon to come to fruition! It’s a great feeling to walk out of your building, cross the street to fabulous restaurants, turn the corner to shopping and be able to escape from it all to a comfortable, affordable living space. This is the only unit left in this entire building!
THE LUXURY LIFESTYLE A dedication to fulfilling my clients’ wishes and a passion for the Philadelphia landscape give me an edge in the world of real estate that places my clients second-to-none. So please allow me to fulfill your real estate dreams, as well as the opportunity to go above and beyond to exceed your expectations. Jason Kravitz Realtor Licensed in PA & NJ Fluent in English and Russian 226 West Rittenhouse Square #102, Philadelphia, PA 19103 O.215-735-2225|C.267-324-4141| E.RealtorJK@gmail.com
October 2012•Insight 25
Real Estate
PROPERTY TALK ON THE TOWN
IN SPORT HISTORY
1
BABE RUTH takes the number one place of worst trades in sport history! The Red Sox owner Harry Frazee, traded Ruth for $100,000 to the Yankees in order to finance a musical called “No, No, Nanette.” Ruth led the Yankees into winning seven World Series Championships! BRETT FAVRE was traded by the Atlanta Falcons to the Green Bay Packers for running-back Tony Smith. What no one knew was that Favre would become one of the best quarterbacks in the league! KOBE BRYANT was first picked to play for the Charlotte Hornets, but he had his eyes on another team, the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers exchanged Vlade Divac for Bryant. Since then Bryant has won more than three consecutive NBA Championships with the Lakers! JOHN ELWAY was traded by the Colts for Mark Hermann, when Elway refused to play in Baltimore. What the Colts did not see coming, was that Elway would win nearly 148 games and lead the Broncos to five Super Bowl games, two of which the Broncos won. The Edmonton Oilers made a big mistake when they exchanged WAYNE GRETZKY to the Los Angeles Kinds, for Jimmy Carson! Gretzky found out about the trade a few hours after he lead the Oilers to the Stanley Cup, but that did not stop him from leading the Kings into the Stanley Cup Finals.
2 3
4
5
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an you imagine a sports world where there tackling in sports like hockey or football where tackling is actually something fans look forward to? Although this sounds completely unrealistic, a small change like that could help protect players from deadly concussions. It is widely believed that helmets prevent concussions, however this is false. A concussion occurs when your brain goes one way, while your skull goes another way. Helmets help protect against skull fractures and that’s about it. Researchers have found that the long-term effects of concussions have been severe, ranging from delay in action to increased memory loss. Researchers are however more interested in changing how sports games are played amongst our youth, as they are the future and have the most growing and developing to do. There have been no studies on the long-term effects of concussions on our younger population. Sports are an important part of growing up, staying healthy, and fighting obesity. However, now more than ever, players need to be careful as to not harm themselves or anyone else during a game. So gear up, get out there, and play some fun and safe sports!
26 Insight•October 2012
©iStockphoto.com
DEADLY CONCUSSIONS
Sports & Athletics
5Worst Trades
Flyers Hockey Schedule
Phillies Baseball Schedule
PRE SEASON
10/01 vs. Washington 7:05 pm
10/01 vs New Jersey 7:00 pm
10/02 vs. Washington 7:05 pm
10/02 vs. Toronto 7:00 pm
10/03 vs. Washington 1:05 pm
10/05 vs. New Jersey 7:00 pm 10/06 vs. Chicago 8:30 pm REGULAR SEASON
Eagles Football Schedule
10/11 vs Boston 7:00 pm
10/07 vs. Pittsburgh 1:00 pm
10/13 vs. NY 7:00 pm
10/14 vs. Detroit 1:00 pm
10/18 vs Pittsburgh 7:00 pm
10/21 BYE WEEK
10/20 vs Winnipeg 7:00 pm
10/28 vs. Atlanta 1:00 pm
Union Soccer Schedule 10/03 vs. Chicago 8:30 pm 10/06 vs. New England 7:00 pm 10/20 vs. Houston 7:30 pm 10/24 vs. Sporting KC 8:30 pm 10/27 vs. New York 1:30 pm
10/25 vs. Montreal 7:30 pm 10/27 vs. Toronto 7:00 pm 10/28 vs. Buffalo 5:00 pm 10/30 vs. Dallas 7:00 pm
Think you know who will win? Email or Facebook message us with your information and guesses. Right answers get a point towards our annual prize (see Editors Desk for more detail).
Want to advertise in Insight? Visit myinsightmag.com to learn how. October 2012•Insight 27
T
he presented scenario is not completely unlikely nor is it science fiction, but the chances of it happening in the next billion years is zero. Not many of us take the time to stop and think what would happen if the earth stopped rotating completely. What would happen to the land? Us humans? On which side of the sun would we stop? If the earth were to stop rotating around the axis, but still continued to rotate around the sun, the length of a year would remain the same, but the length of a day would last as long as a year. If the earth were to completely stop rotating, then all the water would gradually move toward the polesand soon enough cause land to merge. With time all three oceans would combine and create two new bodies of water. All land mass would be completely wiped clean of everything. This would include your house, dog, and rocks from our land. For the first half of the year there would only be daytime, for the second half of the year there would only be nighttime and the temperature would depend on the latitude of where you are. How’s that for Sci Fi?
NO EAR? NO PROBLEM:
Advances in Medical Science
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ears ago, a person going blind had no choice but to accept it; a person who lost skin in a fire was given no alternative to scarring. But, today, thank to advances in medical science, there are tools to replace almost every part of the body. Here are a few new advances reported this year. i i i i
In Pittsburgh, doctors are using an experimental therapy from pigs to re-grow thigh muscle. In Boston, scientists are planning the first implant of lab-grown ears. In San Antonio, testing of sprayed-on skin cells is underway for use in treatment of burns and wounds. Researchers at the University of Glasgow are creating reliable methods to encourage bone growth around implants.
These are just a few of the more recent medical advances. Who knows what’s to come! 28 Insight•October 2012
©iStockphoto.com
Science & Technology
What Would Happen if the Earth Stopped Rotating?
TEXT ME WHEN MY DOG IS TOO HOT? A Look at Heat Sensing Collars
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©iToronto Humane Society
here’s still a bit of warmth left in our forecast so if you have a dog, this might be for you. Rethink Toronto, a Canadian company, has created an internet-connected dog collar that sends owners a text message when the temperature around the dog reaches 79 degrees Fahrenheit. The collar is a part of a campaign developed for the Toronto Humane Society. The company created the device, known as the ‘Dog Caller’, in response to the rising number of heatstroke cases amongst dogs, particularly those left in warm houses or hot cars. Dogs release heat slowly through panting and have no pores; as such, it is easy for them to overheat. Studies show that even five minutes in a hot car can prove fatal for most pets.
The collar itself is a simple fabric band with a thermometer attached. Currently in the prototype stage, the anticipated release isn’t until early 2013, following a fundraising campaign. The expected cost is about $20.
NINTENDO’S
WII U to launch Novemver 18 N
intendo is notorious for game changing video games which appeal to the masses from kids to grandparents. The creator of “Mario Bros.” and “Donkey Kong” will launch its first high-definition gaming console on Nov. 18 in the U.S., later that month in Europe and on Dec. 8 in Japan. It’s the first major game console to launch in years. But Nintendo is merely catching up on HD with Sony Corp. and Microsoft Corp., which began selling their own HD consoles six and seven years ago, respectively. The question is whether a touch-screen tablet controller, coupled with TV-watching features, will be enough to surpass them. But over the years the novelty faded even as the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 have managed to keep loyal, hardcore gamers enthused with massive shooters and multiplayer features. Whether the Wii U can bring people back will depend on Nintendo’s ability to lure people in with classic games from “Mario” to “Call of Duty,” entertainment features that go beyond gaming and a price that doesn’t break the bank. Nintendo first announced plans for the Wii U last year, but it hadn’t disclosed the price or availability date until just last month. The Wii U will start at $300 for a basic model, which is just $50 more than what the Wii initially sold for. For $350, gamers can buy a deluxe version that is black instead of white. The deluxe model will also have a charging stand for its controller, 32 gigabytes of memory instead of 8 and “Nintendo Land,” a smorgasbord of 12 popular Nintendo games. October 2012•Insight 29
Career & Finance
By Angele D. Russell
The
BEST TIME
to
R
REFINANCE
efinancing a mortgage can save homeowners a lot of money, if it’s done right and at the right time. Careful research, patience, and a good calculator are all required. Below are some necessary steps to take when making this decision:
1. Search the Internet to find current mortgage rates and compare
them to your rate (if your adjustable rate mortgage is anywhere from a half to two points above current rates, it may be a good time to refinance).
2. Be sure to consider the length of the mortgage and down
payments. Also, remember to ask for the advertised rate in writing.
3. Choose the bank with the lowest rate and best deal. 4. Consider your current loan’s prepayment penalties; some loans charge money to pay a loan off early. Also consider any other fees associated with refinancing, including appraisal fees and credit check and other processing fees. In addition to the above steps, another important consideration to make is how long you are planning to stay in the home. If you plan to stay for less than two more years, it is not advisable to refinance because there will be no real longterm benefits over time. Happy Refinancing!
FAST GROWING
Medical Careers in 2012
F
he U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has released its list of thirty occupations it expects to net the greatest job growth through the year 2020. Fortunately, for those in the medical profession, almost half of those occupations are connected to medicine and personal care. Here are the top careers in the medical field from that list: 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
Personal Care Aides: predicted to grow over 70%; average pay $20,420. Home Health Aides: predicted to grow over 69%; average pay $21,760. Registered Nurses: predicted to grow over 26%; average pay $67,720. Physical Therapist Aide: predicted to grow over 43%; average pay $23,680. Dental Hygienists: predicted to grow over 37%; average pay $42,000. Medical Scientists: predicted to grow over 36%; average pay $123,000. Veterinarians: predicted to grow over 35%; average pay $82,000. Mental Health Counselor: predicted to grow over 36%; average pay $46,000.
30 Insight•October 2012
Using Loans to Eliminate
T
o date, approximately 80% of all Americans are in some type of debt: student loans, car loans, mortgages, credit cards, and medical debt. The statistics are staggering but many tools exist to get rid of debt, one of which is to pay off your debt with a loan. While this method of debt elimination is rarely advised, it can be a very useful if employed in the proper way. There are several different types of loans to consider: l Home Equity Loans: If you own a home, you can borrow against the equity in your home for the amount of the debt. l Peer to Peer Loans: Take the banks and loan companies completely out of the equation by using a loan from an investor, who lends money to get a return on his investment, in the form of interest. Lending Club is one company that specializes in this type of lending. l Life Insurance Loan: If you have a cash value portion of your life insurance, you can loan against those funds to pay off debt. l Debt Consolidation: This option allows you to take all of your debt and place it in one payment plan. While this involves paying more interest over time, it allows you the ease of making one payment. Whatever method you employ, make a habit of freeing yourself from debt, quickly!
Want to advertise in Insight? Visit myinsightmag.com to learn how.
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ou Y h WisereHere W XOXO October 2012•Insight 31
A Dose of Insight
By Angele D. Russell
I
have a problem. My best friend is getting married to a man I don’t think she should be with. He is emotionally abusive and, while he has never hit her, I am afraid for her safety. He has isolated her from friends and family and is so emotionally erratic, I feel he is is a ticking time bomb. The issue is that she has asked me to be a bridesmaid in the wedding; I said yes, but am now not sure I should do it. Please help!
✽ A true friendship is evidenced by supporting your friend, no matter if you agree with them or not. Your friend is asking for your support and you should give it; it really is that simple. I totally understand how it is to watch a friend do something you don’t approve of but it’s her life,
not yours. Moreover, getting married is a very emotional step in life and having someone come along and second-guessing the decision will only cause strife, not reflective thought. My advice is to stand by your friend and be there regardless of how the chips fall. Good luck!
T
hree months ago, I started working on a project for work. In the beginning, I had a good handle on the tasks and made suggestions for actions I knew were integral to the success of the project. However, I was constantly ignored by the project managers and was made to feel my suggestions weren’t important enough. Fast forward to now and the very things I warned against or suggested have proven to be necessary. I want to say ‘I told you so’ and report it to the higher ups because I think the current managers are incompetent. How do you think I should react?
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✽ Keep your mouth shut but definitely document everything. In the corporate world, no one likes (or promotes) a tattle-tale, someone who seems to always report when things are going wrong. However, sometimes, the people in control like to cover their tracks by placing the blame on others. If that is the case, be sure to document every 32 Insight•October 2012
communication and action you take because, if something goes awry, you are likely the one to shoulder the blame. Only after that occurs would I report to the higher ups, in a private meeting, to ensure your contributions (positive or negative) are made clear’; also, be sure to have the evidence to back up your claims. Good luck!
M
y husband says I watch too much reality tv. On average, I’d say I watch about 5-6 shows a week and I don’t think that is excessive but it gets on my husband’s nerves and is forcing us apart because he goes to watch TV in another room. What should I do? Should I leave reality TV alone or keep doing what I want to do?
✽ The first question you should ask your husband is why he is against reality TV because he may have other reasons in his head than what is actually true. For example, if you watch reality TV for comedic purposes and to get your mind off things, thats one thing; but, if you watch reality TV and are emotionally wrapped up in
the situations, affecting your day to day life, that’s entirely another. Having this discussion with your husband will clear the air and hopefully get him to understand your motivation and not mock it. Good luck!
M
y son is 17 years old and is entering his senior year of high school. My dream has been for him to go to college; he is a smart kid with good grades and a good head on his shoulders. However, he wants to take time off after graduation to just “take a break.” I am nervous for him because it is hard to get a job without a college degree and I don’t want him to be at a disadvantage. Should I let him take time off or force him to enter college?
✽ I may be the wrong person to ask this because I tend to agree with your son. I would rather your son enter college with a clear goal and purpose, rather than doing it just because he was told or just because it is the ‘next thing to do’. Think about it, how many times have you heard adults say, “I wish I followed my dreams, etc”? Giving
your son the freedom to explore may change his life in a positive way. My advice is to research options for him during his time before college, including volunteer and travel opportunities; that way, he can be productive, discover more about himself, and move forward with purpose! Good luck! October 2012•Insight 33
Horoscope
Aries (March 21-April 20). Work and relationship issues begin to ease this month as you move on from the past month. In the middle of the month you are caught with a frustrating decision which may make you act without thinking. Don’t think that you can solve a complicated problem with one quick move, but rather take the time to figure out which works best for you.
Libra (Sept. 23rd–Oct. 23rd). You have been working hard since Saturn the Tester entered your house in July 2010. You have seen major events come to an end, which forced you to completely revise your life. This month you should consider t start building everything you have worked on in the last two years as well as your assets.
Taurus (April 21st–May 21st). This month you will see love and relationship unveil around you. Remember that if you expect a lot from others you must be willing to give the same back to them to reach common ground. This month is a good time to expand your contacts and your skill set.
Scorpio (Oct. 24th–Nov. 22nd). You begin the month in a relatively good mood, the clouds have cleared, you can finally think straight and make a big decision that you have been waiting to make for a while. By the end of the month you will either encounter a spiritual teachers or a motivator that will help you move forwards.
Gemini (May 22nd–June 21st). Take the time to disengage your self from all the pressure and think about which projects and tasks are worth moving forward with. Focus less on changing the world, but rather improving your self and your tasks.
Sagittarius (Nov. 23rd–Dec. 21st). This month you will be full of energy and motivation. Just make sure you put all of it to good use. You may feel the need to express your energy and talent to everyone, but always keep in mind that not everyone should know what you can do.
Cancer (June 22nd–July 22nd). This month put your time and energy into making harmony with your family and friends. By doing this you will calm your soul and enhance your creativity.
Capricorn (Dec. 22nd–Jan. 20th).This month you may feel the need to move on with you goals, but move on quick. However, you should not move too fast. Moving too fast may have consequences causing you to end up right where you first started. Pace your self and your work this month.
Leo (July 23rd–August 23rd). You may get a glimpse of your future this month. Do not second guess your self and proceed with your head on your shoulders. Your family will be the most important thing this month as you reconnect with some roots. Virgo (August 24th–Sept. 22nd). This month is the best month to tune into the gut feeling of yours over financial matters. It is time to get off the fence and take appropriate actions. Be confident of your choice, hold your heard on your shoulders and take the proper step to figure your financial situation out, everything else will follow.
34 Insight•October 2012
Aquarius (Jan. 21st–Feb. 18th). This month focus on your ideals and the execution of the process. You may not be able to come up with the whole plan for, but you will bring peace and justice into your life. Pisces (Feb. 19th–March 20th). Due to your compassionate ways you sometimes do not find the ability to speak your mind. But this month your voice will finally be heard. Of course you may hurt someone by what you say, but it’s a lot better then doing things you do not have a desire to do.
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