a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 01
Winedog International Fine Wines & Fine Art Gallery “A Perfect Union”
Souleiado Art presents: Works by many local artists in various media
Owned by Nationally Honored Artist
Donna Schwarz Gallery Viewing & Wine Tastings All Day - Every Day Mon-Fri 11-9, Sat - 9-9, Sun 1-7
Mark Your Calendar
January 5th Wine Specialist - Craig Cracchiolo - Wine Trends Live Music - Cheryl Renee & Electronic Keyboard
January 19th Wine Specialist - Cliff Bowling Green Beverage Live Music - Amelia Morgan Singer & Peggy Jordan On Keyboard
More Details at www.winedog.com
451 Ohio Pike | SR 125 | Union Twp Just West Off 1-275 Exit 65 513-494-6321 or 888-288-0668
04 lists & letters A letter from the editor The a-list
A look at the most frequently broken resolutions
Tiny Bits
Get the year started off right with these adorable odds and ends
06 Fashion & beauty Test kitchen
Our trio tests Crest 3D White 2-Hour Express Whitestrips
Mirror, mirror
A fun and funky take on the traditional manicure
The good life
Keep colds away the natural way
Beauty alert
Vital vitamins for happiness and health
First look
Pants with a pop of color, Mod silhouettes, and hats in all shapes and fabrics
Fashion
Go from work to weekend with FOX19 morning news anchor Sheila Gray
20 Arts & culture heavy thoughts
A look into different societies’ struggles with body image By Elle Morris
Music to our ears
Leyla kicks of the year listening to some fierce females
mixtape darlings
The Civil Wars make us a mixtape By Jac Kern
New Year, New eyes, New City
Picking up, starting over, and finding cool things in a new city By Steph Barnard
28 Projects & recipes Make your own
Create a nostalgic daily planner
Cookbook
Tomato, Egg & Beef from The Oriental Wok
Homemade happy hour
Molly makes a Rosy Future
Lightborne Publishing Inc. 811 Race St., Fifth Floor Cincinnati, OH 45202 Phone: 513-665-4700 Fax: 513-665-4368 a-linemagazine.com General inquiries: info@a-linemagazine.com Advertising opportunities: ads@a-linemagazine.com Editor in chief Maija Zummo CREATIVE Director Rebecca Sylvester editor at large Judith Turner-Yamamoto contributing editor Tamia Stinson GRAPHIC DESIGNER Julie Hill Contributors Steph Barnard, Kristina Gerig, Jessie Hoffman, Megan Kelly, Jac Kern, Elle Morris, Ilene Ross, Leyla Shokoohe, Molly Wellmann photographers Cameron Knight, Emily Maxwell, Lauren Purkey, Amy Elisabeth Spasoff, Gina Weathersby Interns Lisa Flick, Sidney Hilley, Jordan Keller, Hannah Smith, Courtney Tynan director of sales and marketing Chuck Davis Advertising Account SUPERVISOR Tony Frank Advertising Account Specialists Shannon Loeffler, Jessica Wolcott Advertising Account managers Lauren Faulkner, Katharine Harrow, Tracy Walker, Neil White Circulation Manager Steve Ferguson BUSINESS Manager Jeff Dorsey receivables Latha Mannava administrative assistant Brandi Ballou event producer Kenneth Wright Publishers Dan Bockrath, John Fox On the cover Illustration by Julie Hill
Entire contents are copyright 2011 Lightborne Publishing Inc. and may not be reprinted in whole or in part without prior written permission from the publishers.
street style
Tamia Stinson recreates Cincinnati street style
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 03
new year’s resolutions 90 the percentage of americans who will fail to keep their New Year’S resolutions
They always sound good at the time, but these grand vows rarely make it past our New Year’s hangovers. It’s easy to justify giving them up, but for the serious few, here are tips to resist the temptations.
The number of pounds you should strive to lose at a time Since weight loss is the most popular New Year’s resolution, it’s also the most broken. Oftentimes, it’s just too general of a promise to keep. Instead of saying “I want to lose weight,” promise yourself to lose a pound a week or every two weeks. Making small accomplishments over time is encouraging and you’re more likely to stick to it. One is also the number of truffles you should have, not one box.
the miserable number of days in the infamous “three day hump” When trying to quit smoking, these are the days your friends wish you would have stayed home. You’re moody, you’re mean, and you definitely want a cigarette. However, there is hope! Replace your habit of smoking with something else. Put a pack of gum or toothpicks where you normally keep your smokes. That way, when you instinctively reach for a cigarette, you have something to satisfy your oral fixation. Nicotine patches are always good, too.
The amount of money the average american household spends going out to eat each year Saving money is something everyone wants to do, and it’s an easy resolution to make. Things like this add up, and they’re easy activities to cut down on. Keeping a spending log can help. That way, you can see where you’re spending unnecessarily and save a lot of money.
The amount of brew in the average american-made beer bottle This is a good alternative to those 22-oz. tall ones you’ve been throwing back. Drinking less alcohol is something many of us strive to do for the sake of our wallets and, of course, our bodies. Since drinking is a social event, make cutting down a social thing as well. Finding a friend to cut back with you makes all the difference. That way, you’ll have someone to fight the peer pressure with.
the year you’re going to find a better job! We know, we know, you’re just too busy to get out there and look. No excuses! According to Dr. Bill Knaus in Psychology Today, it’s all about not waiting for the right time, which will never come if you don’t make it. “Waiting to get into the right mood is a form of procrastination,” he says. “Push yourself to do it anyway.”
the
list
04 | january 2012 |new view, new you
compiled by Courtney Tynan {illustration by Julie Hill}
tiny bits
A collection of A-Line’s favorite odds and ends
letter from the editor It’s the New Year—time for starting over, trying new things, reevaluating the old, and making resolutions. Now, I’m not really one for resolutions (I like wine; I dislike exercise), but, originally, I’d been toying with the idea of giving up French fries in 2012—or at least eating fewer. You see, the miracle of French fries is that the older you get, the quicker they redeposit their delicious fatty goodness directly onto your hips. I’m not an athlete or a model or anything, so size really doesn’t matter in my life/line of work as long as I’m healthy (see Elle Morris’ feature “Heavy Thoughts” for more on that topic), but I like fitting into my pants. I have two pairs of go-to Levi’s that took me years—and three different retail jobs—to find. So if those babies don’t zip, I have no idea what to wear. I yell at my closet, look at my oversized sweaters, and wind up at work in leggings and some type of heels like Peg Bundy pretending I’m not in pajamas (aka the French Fry Effect). But leggings are comfortable, the Mayans have foretold the apocalypse is nigh, and French fries taste awesome…so I will not be giving them up in 2012. In fact, if the world didn’t want me to eat French fries they wouldn’t come in so many delicious varieties: fast food fries, steak fries, diner fries, cheese-covered fries. And have you had the Truffle Fries at Senate? Holy crap. I could eat those everyday. So while the New Year is a time for a new view and, maybe, a new you, make sure you make decisions for yourself based on health and happiness, not just because it’s January 1. Inside this issue we have some thoughts and tips on that topic, as well as brightly colored pants, a pomegranate cocktail and a $432 beetle under glass. Happy New Year!
Triumphant tote lululemon, Hyde Park $118.00
Vanilla Grapefruit Candle Votivo, English Traditions, Hyde Park $28.00
macrodontia HighStreet, Downtown $432.00
Mini Gold horse HighStreet, Downtown $4.50
Leather Ring Sloane Boutique, OTR $10.00
Geisha Roll-on perfume HighStreet, Downtown $44.00 each
Cat Wall Calendar Park + Vine, OTR $18.00
Pillow Joseph Williams Home, OTR $22.99
—Maija Zummo
moleskine planner Joseph-Beth $39.95
Compiled by Jordan Keller
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 05
Test kitchen
Product reviews from A-Line’s favorite friends
New Year - New You!
Crest 3D White 2-Hour Express Whitestrips Enamel-safe whitestrips that visibly whiten teeth in two hours. One treatment lasts three months. $54.99, eStore, pgestore.com
Enhance your image and wellness
Men’s and Women’s Full Service Hair Care | Facials | Waxing | Nails Make-Up | Massage | Bridal Services Free Consultations Available 501 Salon & Spa 501 Fairfield Ave | Bellevue, KY 41073 www.501salon.com Tues-Thurs 10-8, Fri 10-7, Sat, 9-4 Please call 859.581.0501 to schedule your appointment.
✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ Megan: 27 While on, annoying and leaves a bad taste in your mouth. I didn’t notice a difference in the color of my teeth. Not worth the time or taste that I was left with in my mouth. Wouldn’t add to my beauty regimen, but would maybe recommend before a big event.
✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ Get the Glow
Be Healthy. Stay Beautiful. (513) 239-7873 | 3913 Eastern Ave Cinti, OH 45226 www.beamsunfree.com
06 | january 2012 |new view, new you
Bridgette: 31 Being a coffee and wine drinker, I was excited to try the strips. The strips were easy to apply, but my teeth were incredibly sensitive. I managed to convince myself “no pain, no gain” and kept them on for the full two hours. Unfortunately, I only noticed a small difference so I am not sure it’s worth all the hassle.
✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ Cathy: 45 My initial reaction was not pleasant: bad taste and a burning sensation along the gum line and teeth. The strips did stay in place very well compared to other white strips that I’ve tried in the past. The outcome was minimal. Not worth the effort.
{mirror, mirror}
Neighborhood Nails Adorn your digits with fun, detailed nail art
Step 1: Cut out sections of a map from the phone book to fit the shape of each of your nails. Step 2: Paint all nails with two coats of a light colored nail polish. Allow nails to dry almost completely. Step 3: Spray cotton pad and nail with rubbing alcohol. One nail at a time, place map on nail and lightly press with cotton pad. Hold for 20 seconds. Make sure to hold cotton very still— budging it slightly can disturb the design. Step 4: Very slowly peel paper away from the nail to reveal design. Repeat steps 3 and 4 on remaining nails. Step 5: Finish each nail with a clear top coat. Quick fast strokes will keep the map design from smudging.
materials
map of your neighborhood from a phone book white or light colored nail polish top coat nail polish rubbing alcohol small spray bottle scissors cotton pads
instructions BY Jessie hoffman{photos by amy elisabeth}
JESSIE RECOMMENDS...
Essie’s “Absolutely Shore” nail polish
Jessie Hoffman is a freelance hair and make-up artist and a master stylist at Beautyology in Hyde Park. See more work at Jessiehoffmanladylocks.blogspot.com
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 07
{the good life}
By sidney hilley
Keep Colds Away
the
Natural Way
Aside from fighting harsh temperatures, never-ending layers of clothing, and half-hour windshield scraping sessions, our biggest battle through the winter can be with our own bodies. Why chug fluorescent cough syrup or pop coated aspirin when you can try simple, natural remedies to reduce your struggle with the worst winter enemy: the common cold? We spoke with Mary Anne Miller, a Registered Nurse who teaches at the Bohecker College School of Nursing in Cincinnati, and she gave us insight into some cold remedies that may already be sitting in our pantries.
Garlic
Your breath may be kickin’, but your white blood cells will be too. “One major natural product used to decrease colds or prevent colds is having garlic heavy in the diet,” says Miller. Garlic has been known as the wonder-clove for centuries— in ancient history and in myth. Aside from vanquishing vampires, garlic was also given to the Romans to give them strength before battle (talk about the original Gatorade). Those zesty little bulbs boost our natural supply of hydrogen sulfide, an antioxidant that, according to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, increases blood flow and relaxes blood vessels. Not only does garlic boost our immune system, but a garlicfilled diet can help protect
08 | january 2012 |new view, new you
the body from various cancers such as breast, prostate, and colon, too. Miller suggests having at least two cloves of garlic a day. Many Italian and Asian dishes use a lot of garlic, so make winter a time to go international with your cooking; it will add spice and antioxidants.
Oregano Oil
Oregano is more than just those little green flakes next to the parmesan at LaRosa’s. The oil extracted from the wild oregano plants is lethal against germs. “Oil of oregano is a very powerful antiviral and antifungal,” says Miller. According to researchers at the Department of Food Science at the University of Tennessee, compared to other various plant oils, oil of oregano is the greatest contender as an
antibacterial agent against common pathogenic germs. Oregano oil even kicks rancid bacteria such as E. coli out of the ring. Oil of oregano is a potent antiseptic used both topically and internally. “The oil can be bought at health food stores. I recommend putting 2-4 drops under the tongue or in juice or hot tea,” says Miller. It can be purchased as a liquid or in capsules.
Elderberry Extract or Juice
Elderberry juice was used to treat the avian flu epidemic in Panama more than a decade ago, and the discovery of its multiple health benefits just keep booming. Elderberry extract contains a compound known as sambucus, which prevents some strains of influenza from being reproduced in your system. Sambucol is one of the most well-known brands of juice, tablets and more containing elderberry extract. Adding four tablespoons of elderberry extract to a cup of tea can help relieve a cough, sore throat, or headache.
Pineapple
That little yellow slice can do much more than just jazz up your piña colada; it can ease the pain of an upset stomach. Pineapple can reduce inflammation in the intestines with the help of bromelain, an enzyme that seeks and destroys sneaky foreign microbes in your body, according to Rebecca Wood, author of The New Whole Foods Encyclopedia. Miller also emphasizes that the most important aspects of keeping yourself healthy in the winter are actually things we should focus on year-round. “It is important to keep yourself from getting rundown,” Miller says. Remember to exercise, even if it means throwing a parka on over your sweats to make it to the gym; know when to turn off the computer and go to bed; and, most of all, keep your stress levels low—just like Frankie says, relax.
{BEAUTY LERT} by elle morris
Vital Vitamins
Happy New Year! As we step into a new year, most of us make New Year’s resolutions. The usual suspects include weight loss and exercise. Sometimes we look in the mirror and think we need a new skin-care regimen, or perhaps a peel, to make us feel refreshed and appear younger. But there are so many simple things we can do to help ourselves look and feel better—we just need to incorporate them into our daily lives. What we typically don’t include in these resolutions are the smaller, often forgotten tools to achieve a healthier body. Are we getting all the right vitamins and minerals to help our bodies look and feel their best? As women, we should all be taking a good multivitamin that has folic acid. Beyond that, as individuals, we have different needs. Get a regular blood panel done and chat with your primary care physician to see what supplements are specific to your needs. Depending on your age or state of health, you may need incremental vitamins or to include a baby aspirin in your regimen to prevent heart issues. A couple of supplements that we could all see some benefit from— beyond our multivitamins—are biotin, which is renowned for helping healthy hair, skin and nail growth, as well as fish oil, which has properties that promote weight loss as well as skin, hair and heart health. Other questions to ask ourselves: Are we moving enough? Are we hydrated enough? Activities such as walking up the stairs every day or ensuring that we have water with us at all times are easy habits that we can incorporate to improve our health and, therefore, our appearance. Advice from the VP & General Manager of LPK Beauty The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of Libby, Perszyk, Kathman Inc. or any of its affiliates.
8740 Montgomery Rd. 5625 Deerfield Blvd. Cincinnati, OH 45236 Mason, OH 45040 513-794-0202 513-770-2120
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 09
Let us find the perfect piece of jewelry for you.
ribbon cloche Kismet, O’Bryonville $38.00
Jewelry, Watches, Gifts. Jewelry, Watches, Gifts. Design, Restoration, Repair. Design, Restoration, Repair. Friendly, Expert Service. Friendly, Expert Service.
autumn flower hat Ten Thousand Villages, O’Bryonville $34.00
tip top Keep your noggin warm this winter
117 Main St. Milford 513.575.KIRK (5475)
kirkandcompanyjewelers.com
117 Main St. Milford 513.575.KIRK (5475)
kirkandcompanyjewelers.com
knit hat with pom-pom Anthropologie $58.00
10 | january 2012 |new view, new you
first look trapper hat Echt Toskanalamm, NVISION, Northside $25.00
wool felt floppy Scala Pronto, Morrison & Me, Hyde Park $30.00
cashmere blend hat Carolina Amato, KATE, Hyde Park $70.00
sunset ryder boho hat Billabong, Kismet, O’Bryonville $38.00
faux fur pillbox San Diego Hat Co., Trend Boutique, Oakley
cloche hat Atomic Number 10, OTR $26.00
$39.00
styled BY hannah smith
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 11
mad for MOD Short shifts, graphic prints and fun colors styled BY hannah smith
12 | january 2012 |new view, new you
first look
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT ruby paths coat Anthropologie $298.00
button pocket shift NVISION, Northside $26.00
purple shift Atomic Number 10, OTR $23.00
leevless trench dress Theme, Posh Boutique, Hyde Park $99.00
olive shift Shoshana, Soho Boutique, Hyde Park $360.00
houndstooth set Atomic Number 10, OTR $24.00
Red button dress Atomic Number 10, OTR $24.00
smod cap sleeve dress Theme, Posh Boutique, Hyde Park $75.00
double breasted plaid coat Tulle, Trend Boutique, Oakley, $113.00 cableknit sweater dress Hazel, Trend Boutique, Oakley $62.00
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 13
true colors Corduroy and denim: bold and bright
A Boutique Consignment Shoppe 3071 Madison Rd Oakley, OH. 513-386-9885 Wed, Fri, Sat 11-6 | Thurs 11-7 Closed Sun, Mon, Tues
emma tabasco jean DL1961, Soho Boutique, Hyde Park $158.00
14 | january 2012 |new view, new you
levi’s Rust cord NVISION, Northside $20.00
Legacy berry jean Rich & Skinny, Nordstrom $121.00
first look
zelda fuschia jean legging Express $79.90
Stevie ankle gold jean AG, Anthropologie $188.00
twisted skinny cord Free People, Kismet, O’Bryonville
high-rise seafoam jean Madewell $125.00
Stevie navy cord AG, Anthropologie $168.00
$60.00
styled BY hannah smith
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 15
FOX19 News personality (and hot mom) Sheila Gray knows how to look good on-air. But how do you translate workwear into weekend casual? styled BY Tamia Stinson {photos by Gina WeathersBY}
American Can Lofts: americancanlofts.com
16 | january 2012 |new view, new you
Soften a sharp suit with a cozy sweater and casual wedges.
gray suit: Akris, Saks; taupe sweater: Morrison & Me, Hyde Park; black belt: Pangaea, Clifton; patterned wedges: 80%20, Morrison & Me; stone earrings: Pangaea
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 17
Treat work trousers like your favorite jeans and wear them with a soft sweater and tough leather jacket.
Throw on a structured blazer over jeans and a plaid shirt. Add colorful booties and wait for the compliments.
purple trousers: Saks; gray sweater: Diane Von Furstenburg, Saks; jacket: Morrison & Me, Hyde Park; gold flats: DaniBlack, Morrison & Me; feather necklace: Morrison & Me; earrings: Pangaea; T-shirt: Cori 1804, Trend Boutique, Oakley
18 | january 2012 |new view, new you
Make a business-like pencil skirt work for the weekend with a fun belted cardigan and slouchy scarf.
gray pencil skirt: Piazza Sempione, Saks; Aztec cardigan: Freeway, Pangaea, Clifton; taupe scarf: Pangaea; patterned wedges: 80%20, Morrison & Me, Hyde Park; earrings: Pangaea
purple blazer: Armani, Saks; jeans: 1921, Trend Boutique, Oakley; plaid shirt: Hazel, Trend Boutique; red booties: Jeffrey Campbell, Morrison & Me, Hyde Park; red bag: Melie Bianco, Trend Boutique; purple scarf: Blue Pacific, Trend Boutique; bracelet: Washi, Pangaea, Clifton
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 19
Heavy Thoughts By Elle Morris
20 | january 2012 |new view, new you
Most would find this statement confusing: “I’ve been blessed with the experience of being morbidly obese during my life.” “Blessed” and “morbidly obese” in the same sentence? Let me explain. I’ve had weight issues my entire life. I’ve ranged from 10 pounds overweight as a child to 165 pounds overweight in my thirties. Yes, there was a good bit of eating all the wrong things mixed in with some really bad genetics as well as the psychological issues related to hiding behind weight. continues on page 22
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 21
However, this experience has given me the opportunity to observe behaviors and glean insights about people that I think would have been difficult to arrive at as a normal-weight, attractive woman my whole life. Treating heavy people as lepers remains one of the last acceptable forms of prejudice. There is no outrage when disparaging comments are made about someone’s weight. Everyone assumes that this person eats out of control, but there comes a point where people no longer regulate their metabolism; their endocrine system and their body betrays them. Today, we know more about these weight triggers. For example, in my house, white flour products are banned as are any junk snacks, and my kids get yogurt or fruit. However, back in the 1970s and ‘80s, this kind of information about weight gain wasn’t available. In October 2003, I made the lifechanging decision to have gastric bypass surgery because I was an insulin-dependent diabetic and was also on medication to manage my blood pressure. I was not a healthy obese person. I had tried to lose weight through diet and exercise to no avail. I knew I would never have children or live past the age of 40 if I didn’t take the risk. So I did, and it saved my life. I am blessed to have two healthy children and to be at a normal weight now. I have changed the way I think about food and the way I eat and exercise (although I will confess that I hate exercise). But weight is so much more than appearance— it’s about health. As a woman who has been overweight for most of my adult life, I find myself intrigued by how different societies and cultures regard weight in correlation with beauty. I was always fascinated by other societies and cultures that had no issue with my weight and, in fact, I was prized for it. I remember going to Mexico and having several men tell me how attractive
22 | january 2012 |new view, new you
I was. When I asked about my weight I was informed that “Meat is for the man, bones are for the dogs.” I also had several Arab, Jamaican and African admirers when I was heavier. As I began traveling around the world looking at beauty, I took a closer look at the weight issue. Why are bigger women revered in some parts of the world and some cultures and in others they are considered repellent? There is a huge difference between societies that have more and societies that have less. In developed societies where there is abundance (wealth, food, etc.), women that are thin are revered. It takes more restraint to be thin when you can eat whatever you want all the time. For example, in the U.S. until the 1930s, the full-figured female was held up as the beauty ideal because it was a sign of prosperity. As our country grew in wealth, the standards changed with the ideal female body type becoming thinner and thinner. Other wealthy societies such as Japan, Western Europe, South Korea and certain Latin American countries all have a thin ideal female body standard. Research indicates that women in more affluent areas are 70 percent more likely to have a poor body image. Also, an overweight woman is 89 percent more likely to be dissatisfied with her weight if she lives in an area with above average affluence, while only 71 percent are likely to feel the same if they live in an area of average affluence. In the U.S., where our society is comprised of a gamut of different cultures, we are influenced by both economic strata and our cultural heritage. My Cuban grandmother came from a higher economic strata, and that led to her obsession with her weight, my mother’s weight as well as my weight her entire life. She loved to eat but was perpetually on a diet because only thin women were beautiful. By contrast, when I visited her family in Miami, we had some Cubans who
had married into the family from a different economic background. They thought that the most beautiful women were “gordita,” or chubby. Imagine how confused we can become as women if our families are telling us one thing and society is telling us another. There are certain countries that embrace and celebrate women of a fuller stature. In South Africa, if you lose a lot of weight or are thin, the immediate assumption is that HIV is the cause. In Jamaica, naturally thin women are driven to taking chicken fat pills to gain weight. In Afghanistan, even though wearing a burqa is national law there, women with curves are appreciated. In comparison, while some areas of rural China appreciate a fuller-figured woman, many cities are undergoing a transition of body ideal—Chinese professional women are going to diet centers and gyms in an effort to shed pounds. When I was in Guangzhou this summer, the ads for diet centers on TV promising quick weight loss were overwhelming. Similarly, India traditionally loved a woman with curves, but now with the influence of Western culture permeating Bollywood, gyms are popping up all over major Indian cities. However, in the rural areas and in the poorer communities, a woman with a full figure is still celebrated because she is seen as healthy and beautiful. Then there are countries that go to the extremes: in Africa, certain states practice fattening techniques to get their women heavy enough, including Calabar, the North Region of Cameroon and Mauritania. In Mauritania, 75 percent of the women do not watch television and are unaware of Western beauty ideals. Their families and peers pressure them to gain weight— sometimes to the point of endangering their health. So, what are we as women to deduce from all of this? We cannot and should not let anyone dictate what our “ideal body type” should be. The risks of being too thin are certainly there— anorexia is a prominent disease in developed countries. The risks of being obese—well, you read my personal account in the beginning of this article: diabetes, hypertension, cardiac issues, etc. The list goes on and on. Therefore, we as women need to stand up for ourselves and decide individually what a healthy weight is. Some of our bodies are not created to be a size 8, but if you eat well and exercise, a size 14 could be perfect for you. You’re not healthy if you’re a size 6, have a great metabolism and eat junk constantly. If you’re doing the right things, then you can’t worry about what society says. We are lucky enough to live in a country where we can make those choices. Some of the women I talked about aren’t. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of Libby, Perszyk, Kathman Inc. or any of its affiliates.
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 23
music to our ears What we’re listening to now.
✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ January 2 – February 19 Admission: $3 Skate Rental: $3
Hours: Sunday - Wednesday: noon – 6pm Thursday: noon – 8pm Friday & Saturday: noon – 10pm Martin Luther King Jr. Day 10am – 6pm, Valentine’s Day (2/14) 7pm – 9pm Rink Line: 513.381.0782 Saturday, January 14 Noon FREE Mr. Redlegs, Gapper, Rosie Red, and a dozen other large-headed characters will battle it out in an exhibition broomball game
Meet the A-Line community... We have been involved with A-Line Magazine for about five months, both as an advertiser and as a participant in A-Line’s events. We love this vibrant new magazine, with its focus on creative, innovative local businesses that are making their mark in Cincinnati. We also like its appeal to a broad range of demographics, first-rate production values, and its support of worthy causes. 2801 Woodburn Ave. East Walnut Hills 513.221.2921
—Catherine Meguire Owner
www.lebonvivant.us.com
Florence Welch, the eponymous powerhouse vocalist behind Florence and the Machine, is a cyclonic kaleidoscope. Seriously. Those are the first words that pop into my head when I listen to her now-patented brand of swelling, emotive, tremulous, and moving music. On Ceremonials, the follow-up effort to her debut album Lungs, Flo switches gears, throwing her Gothic English-rose idyllic styling into high-octane mode. Here she lets loose the floodgates of blinding baroque-pop-rock fury that was strongly hinted at last time around. A deft combination of atmospheric orchestrations, lush presentations filled with harps, strings, pounding drums, and that foundation-shaking, octave-spanning voice (that reaches for the stars and lands in a different universe altogether) will leave you reeling. Runs the emotional: “Spectrum”
✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ With a backstory that includes growing up in a stark Midwestern setting obsessed with opera, it’s no surprise Zola Jesus’ third full-length album, Conatus, has a lot going on. Jesus sings (it’s as weird to type that as it is to read it) in an echoing, haunting, slightly detached kind of way; her vocals taut and raw, a testament to her talent. The musicality presented here is dark and sparse, threatening like a growling thunderstorm that occasionally releases in a tempest-in-a-teapot downpour. Gliding in a sometimesdreamily vague way atop moody drum machines, swollen strings and ambient atmosphere, Jesus constructs an intriguing, if bleak, atmosphere that is simultaneously emotionally removed and invitingly vulnerable. This juxtaposition is mostly transfixing, and entirely authentic. Seek it out: “Seekir”
✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ ✳ Ordinarily, cover songs are dangerous territory. An entire debut album composed of covers? Potential disaster. Thankfully, 15-year-old English singer Birdy steers these waters with deft and grace in her album, Birdy, landing on the safe ground of masterful vocal interpretation. A newcomer to the music scene, Birdy (Jasmine Van den Bogaerde) has a full, powerful set of pipes reminiscent of Adele’s lush minus the husk. She’s the vocal embodiment of innocence, which is probably why her interpretations of heart-breaking ballads like “Skinny Love” are so touching. Birdy sings indie and classic rock faves alike here (see: James Taylor’s “Fire and Rain”), and even if she never puts out another effort to match this, it’s a treat to listen to her takes on these modern staples. Walk with spiders: “Terrible Love”
Join the A-Line community. To advertise call 513.665.4700x114
24 | january 2012 |new view, new you
Leyla Shokoohe has a background in Communication from UC and a near-obsession with chord construction.
TRACK 1: The Cinematic Orchestra, “To Build a Home” - “Simply one of my favorite songs. Couldn’t exactly put my finger on why. It’s simply emotional, sparse, mysterious.” TRACK 2: St. Vincent, “Cheerleader” - “She is a dear friend and an immense talent. I only wish I could play guitar like she does. I also think it may be illegal to be that beautiful and gifted at the same time.” TRACK 3: Milo Greene, “Don’t You Give Up On Me” - “This new band is going places. They harken back to harmony laced moments like Fleetwood Mac, but with a modern flare that’s all their own. They have also been sweethearts for tour mates. We’ve been glad to have them out on the road with us.”
BY jac kern {photo provided by Tec Petaja}
{mixtape darlings}
THE CIVIL WARS For a band that released their debut album just shy of a year ago, folk duo The Civil Wars are already solidifying their place in the popular music arena. John Paul White and Joy Williams were introduced at a songwriting session in 2008, though Williams had been performing solo since 2001. Grey’s Anatomy buffs will probably recognize TCW hit “Poison & Wine,” as well as Williams’ “Charmed Life” and “Speaking A Dead Language,” all featured on episodes of the show. The songwriting blind date was a success, and the two formed The Civil Wars in 2009. Their breakout album Barton Hallow debuted at No. 1 on iTunes in February. The two, while not a romantic couple, create beautifully somber love songs. By forgoing a back-up band, their sound has an intimate, stripped feel throughout the album. Without extraneous instrumentals the two shine, their voices playing off one another with a harmonious warmth. Fresh off the music award circuit with a handful of nominations, The Civil Wars are currently on tour with The Staves. Check out Williams and White at Covington’s Madison Theater Jan. 14. Williams created a playlist of some of her favorite songs for us.
TRACK 4: Karen Dalton, “Katie Cruel” - “Dylan cited her as a muse and influence years ago. There is simply no one that sounds like Karen. She was riddled with stage fright over the years, often canceling shows last minute. A troubled soul with a truly earthy, honest, arresting voice.” TRACK 5: Gotye, “Somebody That I Used To Know (feat. Kimbra)” - “I cannot get this song out of my head. Catchy, well written, modern, yet classic. The music video for this song is great, as well. I only wish I’d thought of the concept first.” TRACK 6: The Staves, “Mexico” - “Three English sisters that will be joining us on our January/ February U.S. tour dates! Their harmonies are impeccable.” TRACK 7: Benjamin Francis Leftwich, “Pictures” - “A wonderful new singer-songwriter from the UK. His debut album has been on repeat in our house.” TRACK 8: Feist, “The Bad In Each Other” - “This guitar progression is genius. One of my favorite artists.” TRACK 9: The Middle East, “Jesus Came to My Birthday Party” - “A song that was written out of a challenge for this band to be a bit more ‘happy’ and ‘uptempo’. This is what they came up with. Brilliant.” TRACK 10: Max Richter, “On the Nature of Daylight” - “One of my favorite modern composers. This piece is stunning.”
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 25
A self-proclaimed expert at picking up and starting over gives the Queen City a spin—and likes what she sees By Steph Barnard
A
year and a half ago when my boyfriend told me he was thinking of applying to the University of Cincinnati’s Ph.D. program in English, my first instinct was to head to Wikipedia. Though not necessarily a rock-solid source of up-to-date, accurate information, I figured it would give me the basics: Cincinnati’s population, demographics, maybe some information about local attractions and major employers. Oh, who am I kidding? I just wanted to know if, after three years in Kansas, I’d finally be able to shop at Trader Joe’s again. (Google Maps, my next stop after the Wiki, confirmed that.) But I knew then, as I do now, that any encyclopedic document—even a crowdsourced one—wouldn’t tell me anything about what it would be like to live in the Queen City. (Although I did learn that it is, in fact, called that.) I’d just have to experience it for myself. Because if those three years in Kansas after having lived my whole life in Wisconsin taught me anything, it’s that happiness is possible just about anywhere with the right people and the right attitude. So what has Cincy taught me in the six months I’ve been here so far? I think it’s that I really love cities this size: big enough to have plenty of culture and so much to do that you’ll never get bored but small enough to let you live inexpensively and develop quality relationships with people in your city. Here are a few observations
26 | january 2012 |new view, new you
from the third stop on my whirlwind tour of Midwestern living. There’s always a learning curve...You wouldn’t think that living in Ohio would be much different than living in Wisconsin, or in Kansas for that matter. You’d be wrong. Although we’re united by a central government, a language and interstate highways, there are still plenty of ways for states to differ from one another, and culture shock when crossing the state line (or, in my case, several lines) is all too real. Here are just a few things I’d never heard of before moving here: goetta, cornhole, creamy whip, Tafts other than the former president, buckeyes, and people saying “three-way” with a straight face while referring to chili. I haven’t yet tried to tackle tasks like registering my car here—I mean, it’s really called the BMV not the DMV? Too much change at once. I’ll get up to speed sometime, I promise. For now, go easy on me. ...but at the same time, don’t underestimate me. I’ve had people who, upon meeting me after I’d already lived here a few months, ask if I’d been to Findlay Market yet. Really? Dude, I went to Findlay Market during the weekend I flew here to look at apartments when we hadn’t even moved yet. I already know it’s one of Cincy’s gems. You guys gotta try harder at telling me where the city’s real “bestkept secrets” are. We all know about the greatness that is OTR, Newport and Northside. But did you know that the supposedly sterile suburb of Blue Ash has some really great restaurants like Rascal’s, Brown Dog and Cafe Mediterranean? Or that a Pilates studio (Clear, 2542 Woodburn Ave.), a vintage clothing store, and a Josh Campbell eatery (The Skinny Pig, 2714 Woodburn Ave.) all recently opened in East Walnut Hills? If I can step it up, you can too. Let’s all take a trip out of our comfort zones. Straddling the state line is awesome. Speaking of the differences between states: don’t like Ohio’s liquor prices or Kentucky’s smoking policy? A 10-minute drive will fix it. I grew up smack in the middle of Wisconsin where leaving the state was a three-hour affair. Being able to hop over the river and be in a different state without leaving the general metro area is still fun for me. Not to mention the whole “our airport is actually in Kentucky” thing! I’m sure the novelty will wear off over time. Holy parks, Batman. If you haven’t taken advantage of Cincinnati’s park system, you’re seriously missing out. They’re everywhere, and they’re fantastic. Eden Park in particular is giving these legs a serious workout; three years in flat Kansas really spoiled me as a runner. Not to mention the abundance of trails, fitness centers, 5K
opportunities and yoga studios. We may not be known for our outdoor offerings and fit population the way cities like Denver are, but Cincinnati still has plenty of ways to balance out all that Porkopolisstyle eatin’ with quality sweat sessions. It’s so possible to live outside the box. Getting bored of your everyday routine? Here are some of the things the boyfriend and I have done to shake things up: the Lawrenceburg antique market, an afternoon at the arcade in Fairfield, an ironic trip to the Creation Museum, Ethiopian food in Pleasant Ridge, and apple cider donuts at Hidden Valley Fruit Farm in Lebanon. I love that Cincinnatians are passionate about their neighborhoods, but it also doesn’t hurt to explore outside your ZIP code once in awhile. There are whole adventures to be found just a few miles away! One thing I could live without: municipality income tax. Especially since I live in one municipality and work in another. Ouch! Anyone know a good accountant? But it’s all good. Really. So many great neighborhoods, restaurants, specialty shops, entertainment sources, day trips to other cool places...this area really has a lot going for it. Hell, I’ve been exploring like crazy and I still haven’t been to the West Side yet! (Though I hear I’m not missing much...I kid, I kid.) So relax, lifers (and other newbies who may be missing home). The key to happiness in a new place, I’ve found, is to quit comparing it to the other places you’ve been. Want us to be more like New York or Portland? You’ll be waiting awhile because it’s not going to happen. State-by-state culture shock is real because we’re all unique! Instead of complaining, focus on what makes our city great and work on making those things better, whatever you think they may be.
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 27
362 ludloW avenue CinCinnati, ohio 45220 513-961-0145 WWW.artiStSBeadS.CoM artiStSBeadSShop@gMail.CoM
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Want to party? Give us a call at least a week or two before your birthday bash, bachelorette party, girls' night out, movie night, book club, or holiday shindig and we'll put you on the calendar. Your private party can be scheduled for 8pm Mondays through Saturdays or 5pm on Sundays. You bring the food, drinks, and friends we'll supply the expertise and design ideas for you to create beautiful one-of-a-kind jewelry. All you pay for is your bead purchase!
Prepare to have fun!
STEP 1: Prior to getting messy, head to a local print shop (like Kinko’s) to get 365 pages cut to size of a hardcover book. Simply measure an existing page in the book for dimensions and ask them to cut the stack in their guillotine machine. If the size allows, save paper by doubling pages up side-by-side per sheet of paper. Step 2: To begin fabrication, remove all existing pages from the old hardcover book with a utility knife. Be careful not to cut through the cover. Step 3: Stack the new pages and secure the stack with two large binder clips on the short sides. Step 4: Dip a paintbrush in PVA glue and apply liberally to the binding edge. It is important to use PVA glue because it’s acid-free and flexible when dry. Step 5: Once the binding edge has been coated with glue, remove the binder clips without disturbing the pages. To ensure consistent pressure on the glue as it dries, sandwich the stack of paper between heavy books, weights or bricks. Allow a ¼-inch overhang on the glued edge to avoid getting glue on the books, weights or bricks. Step 6: While the book pages dry for 30 minutes, cut fabric to size, center and glue onto the inside of the old book cover. Step 7: Once that glue has set for 30 minutes, apply a coat of glue to the fabric in the spine area. Remove the stack of pages from between the weights and position the freshly glued edge into the glue. Using a binder clip, secure the pages on the long side and leave the book to dry perpendicular to the cover for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, close the book and allow everything to dry in the closed position. Step 8: After another 15 minutes, open your new book and begin stamping out the new year. Kristina Gerig is a DAAP graduate, who currently designs for Nike in Portland, Ore. Her work has been featured in media publications such as Frame Magazine, PBS’ “Art21” and Design*Sponge.
28 | january 2012 |new view, new you
materials
{make your own}
daily planner Create a nostalgic daily planner from an old classic
old hardcover book 365+ sheets of heavy-weight paper scissors PVA book binding glue stiff bristle paint brush +/-1� wide X-Acto or utility knife piece of thin cotton/linen/silk fabric that fits the height of your book and is 6-inches wide date stamp stamp ink two large binder clips weights, heavy books or bricks
{Instructions & photos BY KRISTINA GERIG}
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 29
about the chef
A New Year’s celebration in a traditional Chinese household revolves around food and its elaborate symbolism. Angela Wong Miller’s favorite Chinese New Year childhood recollection includes fighting with her sister Susanna Wong Burgess over fish cheeks. Customarily, a whole fish is served because the word for fish in Chinese (“Yu”) sounds like the words for both wish and abundance. But to Angela and Susanna, the cheeks simply meant the most unctuous, meatiest—and therefore—bone-free parts on which to nibble. Miller and Burgess are the daughters of Mike and Helen Wong, proud owners of The Oriental Wok Restaurants in Hyde Park, Fort Mitchell, and Taylor Mill. Since 1977, the Wong Family has been serving the Tristate area traditional Cantonese-style dishes as well as Szechuan, Thai, and some beloved family favorites. What sets The Oriental Wok apart from your average Asian restaurant, besides the food, is the level of service and family immersion. Both Miller and Burgess have been involved in the family business since they were young. Miller now oversees the banquet business as well as whatever day-to-day operations need to be handled. Burgess supervises the kitchen in addition to developing a now very popular retail line of sauces. Mike Wong, the family patriarch, is of course still very much in the picture, strolling around the restaurant, greeting customers and teaching cooking classes. A vast part of the Oriental Wok menu is based on traditional foods that were and still are cooked by Helen Wong in the family’s home kitchen. Both Burgess and Miller are now married with children of their own, and the family gathers on Thursday nights for a traditional home-cooked Chinese feast featuring dishes such as Braised Black Mushrooms, Shark Fin Soup, Barbecue Pork, Dumplings, and Burgess’ favorite, Tomato, Egg and Beef. As young children, Mike Wong would attempt to “Americanize” his daughters with trips to all of the local Cincinnati chain restaurants, but surprisingly the girls would have none of that, preferring their mother’s homemade delicacies to the popular local fast food haunts. Wong family specialties are often found in The Oriental Wok restaurants. This particular recipe is one of Susanna Wong Burgess’ favorites. She started making it for customers when they would request an off-menu dish, which she herself enjoyed eating at home. Another Wong family favorite: a traditional Chinese New Year celebration. What started as a small, festive way to thank their restaurant staff has become a full blown “China meets Las Vegas,” open-to-the-public, over-thetop shin-dig.
30 | january 2012 |new view, new you
ingredients recipe BY Susanna wong burgess {profile by iLene ross} photos by emily maxwell
{cookbook}
Tomato, Egg & Beef Step 1: Blend marinade ingredients together and marinate beef for at least 1 hour in refrigerator (a gallon size zip top bag works great for this). Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk sauce ingredients until dissolved. Step 3: In a hot wok or skillet, add a thin layer of oil and cook steak until done. You may need to do this in more than one batch so as not to crowd the meat. When steak is done, remove steak to a plate and discard any excess oil.
Step 4: Add ginger and onions to skillet. Stir fry for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook until hot. Pour eggs into skillet and carefully cook without breaking the eggs into small pieces. Add steak back to skillet, and then add sauce. Add cornstarch slurry mixture (whisk about about 2 Tbsp. cornstarch into 1 Tbsp. cold water) and stir until thickened. Serve immediately. Feeds 4 generously.
4 Roma tomatoes, quartered 3 eggs, beaten 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced 1 Tbsp. peeled and sliced ginger ¼ cup white onion, julienne ¼ cup green onion, cut into 3-inch lengths 2 Tbsp. cornstarch Marinade 1 Tbsp. oyster sauce 1 Tbsp. soy sauce 1 egg, beaten 1 tsp. vegetable oil Sauce ¼ cup hot water 4 Tbsp. sugar 2 Tbsp. ketchup 1 Tbsp. vinegar 2 Tbsp. soy sauce 2 tsp. oyster sauce
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 31
You’re already a part of the A-Line community Join us at our monthly events to meet new friends, see new trends, and support charities focused on issues central to our lives. We kicked off the holidays at OTR’s new Sloane Boutique with a hefty helping of Molly’s eggnog, pizza from A Tavola and fresh waffles from Taste of Belgium. Yum!
PHOTOS BY LAUREN PURKEY Join us January 12 from 6-9 at lululemon in Hyde Park Square for our Resolutions: New Year, New You event.
Presented by Powerade Zero
32 | january 2012 |new view, new you
W
henever I make a Shirley Temple for someone I remember being little and going to Prime ‘n Wine in Colerain for a fancy dinner. I was allowed to order a Shirley Temple in a fancy glass tumbler with a slim straw and a flamboyant cherry—intoxicating to the 8-year-old me! Grenadine syrup bears the name of the Grenadines, some 32 islands strung along the Eastern Caribbean, just south of St. Vincent and just north of Grenada. Originally made from pomegranate juice or cherry juice, one might think that pomegranate production on the islands leads to grenadine syrup production. However, the Grenadines’ list of agricultural products does not include pomegranates. So where does grenadine syrup come from? Today it is manufactured commercially as a mixture of “sugar syrups, fruit flavors and red food coloring,” a far cry from its pomegranate origins. Nevertheless, grenadine syrup had to have its origins somewhere, and a quick look in an English/Spanish or English/French dictionary gives a clue as to where. “Granada” is the Spanish word for “pomegranate.” To make your own grenadine, pour two cups of POM Wonderful brand pomegranate juice into a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer over medium-low heat until reduced by half. Add one cup of sugar and stir until dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool. If desired, add highproof vodka or grain alcohol as a preservative. It will keep well in a plastic container in the freezer and won’t freeze solid.
{happy hour}
Rosy future
{RECIPE BY MOLLY WELLMANN} PHOTO By emily maxwell
Shoot location: Japp’s, Over-the-Rhine
INGREDIENTS
1 ½ oz. Hangar One vodka ½ lemon ½ oz. grenadine fresh rosemary
instructions Put all ingredients except rosemary in a shaker and shake, shake, shake. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a piece of rosemary. Molly Wellmann is an award-winning mixologist and an owner of Japp’s in Over-the-Rhine.
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 33
Are you ready?
Nationwide Insurance® has an exciting New Agent Program for those with an entrepreneurial spirit. The new program offers: • base salary plus incentive compensation • notebook computer • comprehensive training
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For more information and to find out if you qualify, please contact me. Karen Kremer Nationwide Insurance (513) 479-4959 kremerk@nationwide.com nationwide.com/careers Nationwide is an equal opportunity employer. EOE/E/M/F/D/V Nationwide, Nationwide Insurance, the Nationwide framework and On Your Side are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2008 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.
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Mandy Meade, montgomery Add some color to your day with sunshine colored pants, a pretty printed top, and fabric-edged boots. Don a pair of horn-rimmed glasses and a swipe of crimson lipstick for vintage appeal. cameo pendant Couture Couture, OTR $15.00
floral scoopneck GAP
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absolute cami Caslon, Nordstrom $18.00
ladyfish graphite suede boot Sperry Top-Sider, Dillard’s $107.99
verdugo ultra skinny hazel velvet legging Paige, Sloane Boutique, OTR $190.00
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call 513-665-4700 34 | january 2012 |new view, new you
Tamia Stinson is the culprit behind the fashion and lifestyle blog TheStyleSample.com and works as a freelance graphic designer and marketing consultant.
a-linemagazine.com |january 2012 | 35