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FEATURES

living humor

11 Made in America 18 Home: The Evolution of Fire 46 Featured Docs 2014

62 Musings of Motherhood: Twinkling on the Ivories

what’s cooking?

59 Fashionista shows you How to Be a Fashion Do in 2014!

33 Duchesse Gabrielle’s Beauty Lab shows you the secrets of basil 10 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

29 Our Sommelier keeps it cozy with Warm Winter Cocktails 26 Fork-1-1: CasSOULet – French Soul Food!

fashion & beauty

travel & sports

health & spirit

63 2014 Winter Olympics: Let the Games Begin!

64 Local Goes Local: Key West, Florida

37 A Zenful Practice to Inner Peace

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Letters to the Editor It’s “Your Home. Your Community. Your Life.”

We want to hear about it. Email the Editor-inChief Sharyl Volpe at svolpe@warrenmediagroup. com, or write to us at:

Local Living Magazine Attn: Editor in Chief 2045 Bennett Road Philadelphia, PA 19116

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Local Living January | February 2014

Writer Queries or Solicitations If you’ve got a must-read story or a good idea for an upcoming issue, what are you waiting for? Email us or send it through the mail at the respective addresses in the section above. (Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your mail. Local Living Magazine does not assume any responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.)

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Director of Sales Blair W. Johnson Fashion & Beauty Editor Gabrielle Mwangi Food Editor Kimberly Cambra Director of Photography Amy McDermott Contributing Photographers Jason Bleecher, Michael Hirata Contributing Writers Diane Burns, Joanna Chodorowska, Jillian Dunn, Tara Hein-Phillips, Blair Johnson, Pattie Krukowski, Gabrielle Mwangi, Carla Papciak-Glatts, Loretta D. Hutchinson, Michele Kawamoto Perry, Andrea Preziotti, Tom Seiler, Susan Taylor, Lisa Walters, Michelle Welliver Medical Contributors St. Luke’s University Health Network Senior Account Manager Lori Straff

Marketing Director Susanna Koppany

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Reprints & Back Issues High-quality reprints of articles are available, as well as entire previous issues. Make your request by calling (215) 257-8400 Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm EST. Local Living Magazine makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without permission from Local Living Magazine.

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“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.”

—Andy Warhol

It’s

all about change, and change is good. It’s a part of our natural progress. Our kids grow up and go to college, fashion and style evolve every season, new restaurants open almost every week, technology changes every day, and Local Living seems to continually change as fast as all of it. Even the recession cannot stop change. In fact, the recession has prompted more change than we’ve seen in a long time, and mostly in small business. While large corporations downsize, employees that find themselves out of work begin to launch their own small businesses; we as a community enjoy the creativity, enthusiasm, culture and flavor of these new local entrepreneurs.

For others, it’s making a career change and going to a specialty school to learn new skills and head in a new direction. If you want to stay ahead of the game, you have to adapt and adjust to whatever changes come your way.

And we know that here at Local Living! Keep an eye out for some unique changes within our covers with the addition of “The Warren Report,” which will deliver in-depth business reporting on topics that make a difference to our local professionals. The Warren Report will offer solid coverage on the area’s most successful industries, including financial, medical, and legal. It will capture the pulse of business with a blend of up-to-the-minute articles and profiles about the movers and shakers shaping our world.

We’re always excited and interested to hear your feedback and comments. Tell us what you would like to see and read about, we’ll make it happen. Reach out to us and be a part of this dynamic magazine representing what living LOCAL is all about!

Be sure to subscribe online to our free subscription, more in-depth articles, contests, events and much more at LocalLivingmag.com.

Thank you for reading!

Account Executives Jim DeWees, Cynthia Price, Michael Shapiro, Jim Vanore

Visit our website for features, contests and digital versions of each issue: www.locallivingmag.com.

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Publisher’s Letter

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Karen A. Lavery

Courier Services Harrisburg News Company WARREN MEDIA GROUP, INC. Headquarters 2045 Bennett Road Philadelphia, PA 19116 Sales & Production 530 West Butler Ave. Chalfont, PA 18914 Phone: (215) 257-8400 / Fax: (215) 464-9303 www.locallivingmag.com www.info@warrenmediagroup.com LocalLivingMag.com

January | February 2014

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editor’s page

JON ROBIN BAITZ’S HIT BROADWAY PLAY!

Editor’s Letter

If

an editor has done her job well, readers are able to enjoy reading without a thought for any behind-the-scenes production. Every once in a while, to the devilish delight of other editors (schadenfroh!), a typo escapes (never!).

But this time around I want to make a confession. Our stories made me begin to worry I’d waited too long to listen to good advice. I see now it really does not take much to make a positive change in your life, be it physical or emotional, spiritual or cognitive.

And you really do need to take care of the body that carries you around.

We only get one, replacement parts aside. Why wait for an ache or a pain, or a milestone birthday before you grab life by the collar and demand more? If it takes a new year on the calendar to do it for you, well here is your chance. Voila!

On ancient motivation with a modern spin is Andrea Preziotti’s piece about how to have a Zen start every day. It’s a simple step-by-step. Tara Hein-Phillips, our newest writer, shares a different kind of inspiration.

Find out how she found deeply profound strength after enduring some of the darkest days of her life.

For the physical mechanics of living, combining form with function, strength and beauty, we’ve included our favorite professionals in healthcare too. From vision to cardiac, you’re in good hands around here.

I was speaking recently with a 94 year-old friend and she said, “I wish I could be 70 again.” Take this spectacular perspective with you. What’s a calendar anyway? Look at the Mayan version, fascinating as it is, predicting doomsday. If you remember Y2K, you remember nothing happened on 1-1-00. It’s not just a new number; it is your time.

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Sharyl Volpe 8

Local Living January | February 2014

LocalLivingMag.com

Valentine’s Day Gifts

Made in America

Bubble Bath- www.MichelDesignWorks.com - what Valentine wouldn’t want to relax in a luxurious bubble bath?!

Say good-bye to boring and hello to beautiful. The 12.7 fl. oz. bubble bath from Michel Design Works in a bouquet of scents & hues comes in a stunning, long-necked glass aperitif bottle fitted with a stopper. Available scents include: European White Floral (NEW!), Magnolia Blossom, Clean Sea Breeze, Hydrangea Blossom, Dewy Fresh Petals, Romantic Floral, Ocean Air, Lavender Rosemary and Fresh Grapefruit. MSRP $22 at national retailers and hundreds of boutiques throughout the country.

Original SPIbelt- www.spibelt.com - the perfect practical gift for the fitness-enthusiast or runner!

The SPIbelt™ will expand to hold any smart phone, keys, cash, credit cards, and even a passport. The SPIbelt™ is ideal for fitness, travel, medical needs, and so much more. The SPIbelt™ is sleek, secure, and does not bounce.

Product Features: Will not bounce. Expandable, secure, low-profile pocket.

Comfortable, soft elastic prevents chaffing. Sturdy buckle and glides for even the most active users. Pocket expands to 6” x 3” x 2” Fits waist size 25” through 50”. Proudly made in Austin, Texas.

Eccolo Journal- www.eccololtd.com- great for writing a special note to that Valentine!

Available in a variety of prints, colors and inspirational sayings, the Éccolo™ line truly has something for everyone’s taste and budget. Whether Mom needs help keeping track of to-dos, fitness buffs are tracking goals and nutrition info, men are looking for their next “little black book,” or just to have on hand for recording random notes and memories, the Éccolo™ journals are small enough to conveniently be taken everywhere.

The Èccolo™ line (MSRP $10.00 - $120.00) embodies the highest attention to Italianinspired craftsmanship including slight ivory acid-free/anti-fade paper, delicate greyscale lines and styles running the gamut from vibrant faux leather to the finest embossed real leather lined with gold-leaf paper. Èccolo clearly offers a journal to fit every style, personality and mood. They are widely available at Staples stores nationwide. Please visit www.EccoloLTD.com to view the entire journal collection.

DOCKSIDE MARKET BUNDT CAKES- www.DocksideMarket.com - great for after a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner!

Dockside Market prides themselves on their bundt cakes, each uniquely baked and full of tropical flavor. Their product line includes: · Towers (MSRP $53)- Great gift idea including a combination of cakes in either Chocolate, Honeybell or Key Lime flavors all wrapped up in a festive bow. · Bundt Cakes (MSRP $22) - Great as a gift or just for yourself these cakes come in all flavors, the most famous being Key Lime. Another festive flavor included is Sunrise Orange/Chocolate Chocolate Chip. · Mini Sample Pack (MSRP $27) - These would be perfect for party centerpieces!

These mini- cakes come in packs of six or eight and have a variety of all tropical flavors.

Dockside Market cakes come in a variety of tropical flavors including Key Lime, Sunrise Orange, Calypso Coconut, Honeybell Orange, Chocolate Chocolate Chip, Captains Chocolate Chip, Island Rum Cake, Key Largo Lemon and Cabana Banana Nut.

By Sharyl Volpe

A

ccording to a recent national survey by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, given a choice between a product made in the U.S. and an identical one made abroad, 78% of Americans would rather buy the American product. However, even savvy shoppers can be duped by labels that distort the truth about a product’s origins.

Some companies intentionally use terms like “U.S.A.,” “America” and “United States” on their packaging even when none of the components in the package were made in America. In solidarity with consumers passionate about knowing where goods are made, each issue of Local Living Magazine will introduce regional companies who have made a commitment to American manufacturing.

Addressing the labeling issues, Bucks County Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick and Delaware Congressman John Carney introduced last year HR 2664, or the Made In America Act. The legislation created the America Star Program, a voluntary, standardized labeling program that would allow consumers to easily identify the extent to which products are Americanmade.

More than 80% of those surveyed by Consumer Reports want to keep manufacturing jobs home and about 60% cited concerns about the use of child workers or other cheap labor overseas, or felt American-made goods were

of higher quality. The following companies have made the pledge to high-quality, domestically sourced products. Let Local Living know your favorites. Show support with your patronage!

Lace Silhouettes, owned by Karen Thompson in Peddler’s Village, Bucks County, Princeton, NJ, and Cape May, NJ. www.lacesilhouetteslingerie.com The Rodon Group in Hatfield, where American workers are manufacturing American plastic components for the American toy company, K’Nex. Henry A. Davidsen, owned by Brian Lipstein, a men’s custom suit maker in Center City Philadelphia.

Coleman Camping Trailers, with HQ in Somerset, Pennsylvania. www.colemantrailers.com.

Pyrex, with HQ in Rosemont, Illinois, has always been American made and stands proudly behind the global distribution of its products.

Sharyl Volpe is Editor in Chief at Local Living Magazine.

Dockside Market cakes along with their line of delectable desserts and gifting options can be found online at www.DocksideMarket.com.

LocalLivingMag.com

January | February 2014

Local Living

11

I consider my company your partner in your moving experience!

Trust is the Key with Hammer’s Moving & Storage

G

eorge Carlin said it. We all want stuff. And when we get stuff, we need a bigger place to put all the stuff. What the irreverent wisecrack comedian didn’t talk about was who helps you move all your stuff?? The answer is Hammer’s Moving & Storage.

Family-owned and operated for two generations over the past 49 years, Hammer’s specializes in something that sets them apart from the competition: Trust.

Without it, you might as well rent the U-Haul and hire strangers. There’s a reason Hammer’s had 76% repeat or referred business in 2013. Word of mouth can make or break a business where reputation is everything.

How does the Hammer family operate to gain the kind of loyalty they have earned?

“One of the most basic examples,” president Rosendo Diaz explains, “is this rule: my team does not leave the new home until everything is in place.” Simple but effective.

“At the end of a long day, you might just want to say, ‘Put it in the other room, I’ll do it later,’ but the next day is a disaster. It is all still there” You say you’ll deal with the piano later? No, no you won’t.

“We don’t have to come back if you let us stay and finish the job right.”

“I love my work, and so did my father before me, and I think it shows.” Although most of Hammer’s work is residential, many of Hammer’s commercial jobs are from the companies run by CEOs he moved between homes.

“We take very seriously our role in ensuring that one of the most stressful events of your life is handled with quality and, most importantly, integrity,” says Diaz.

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“We are not just a moving company; we are in the business of moving people’s lives.” Rosendo Diaz President For more information please contact Hammer’s at 215.723.9122 or by email at ham1078@aol.com.

Visit their website at www.hammersmoving.com.

TESTIMONIALS Newtown to Maine, Connecticut and Maryland “Rosendo, …complex move, expertly handled…We definitely made the right choose with your company...”

Collegeville/Skippack area to Sarasota, Florida “Lynn, I just wanted to thank you and Hammer’s Moving for the wonderful experience. As I mentioned to you earlier, when I first started to call for pricing I was amazed at the lack of clarity on the quotes I received from the other moving companies. But when I called your company you took the time to answer my questions, explain how you charge and even provide details that I hadn’t thought of. I knew you were the right choose from the beginning.”

Philadelphia to Souderton “Thanks again for the move. We had a great experience. The moving crew was polite and even went out of their way to help me get some things in the basement moved out to the dumpster after they finished.”

THE BIG WINNER proudly served at these fine establishments

REVOLUTIONARY SPIRIT Honey

401(k) Plans Offer Numerous Benefits for You and Your Staff

www.honeyrestaurant.com

Yardley Inn www.yardleyinn.com

Freight House Café www.thefreighthouse.net

Bobby Simmones www.ilovebobbys.com

PLCB www.finewineandgoodspirits.com

By Thomas A. Seiler

S

tarting a 401(k) retirement savings plan can be easier than you think.

By implementing a 401(k) plan, you will help your employees save for the future, while also helping to secure your own retirement.

What’s more, there are a number of tax advantages for both you and your employees.

The basics A 401(k) plan is a defined contribution plan, so named for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax code that governs it. With a 401(k) plan, you and your employees can save money toward retirement on a tax-deferred basis. Generally, no federal or state income taxes are paid on the savings or investment earnings until the money is withdrawn at retirement. However, any withdrawals prior to age 59 1/2 may be subject to a 10% federal penalty tax.

In addition: • A well-designed 401(k) plan can help attract and keep talented staff • Your practice would be entitled to a tax deduction on matching contr butions you make • Contributions may grow through a variety of investments like stocks, bonds and mutual funds • Participants may take their benefits with them when they leave the company, easing administrative responsibilities for you Establishing a 401(k) planWhen you establish a 401(k) plan, you must take certain basic actions. One of your first decisions will be whether to set up the plan yourself or to consult a professional or financial advisor. Using a financial advisor can help simplify the setup process, which includes: • Adopting a written plan document • Arranging a trust fund for the plan’s assets • Developing a recordkeeping system • Providing plan information for eligible staff

Eligibility, vesting and contributions In creating a plan, you will also want to consider eligibility, vesting and contribution limits. With respect to eligibility, it is not unusual to create a plan that has a waiting period – anywhere from a month to a year, for example – before an employee can participate. Although not required by 14

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September | October 2013 Local Living 43 www.penn1681.com / www.bluecoatgin.com

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law, you may choose to match a portion of the contributions employees make to their 401(k) account. These matching contribution amounts vary widely (usually from 25% to 100% of an employee’s contributions).

In traditional 401(k) plans, you can design the plan so that your contributions become vested over time, according to a vesting schedule. If a staff member leaves before your contributions to them are vested, they forfeit those amounts.

The IRS sets a maximum amount that an employee can contribute to a 401(k) plan in any given year. For 2014 that amount is $17,500. In addition, employees over the age of 50 are allowed to make catch-up contributions above the maximum amount. That contribution is $5,500 for 2014.

A 401(k) plan is subject to a number of IRS reporting requirements. These include keeping the plan up to date with new laws, performing nondiscrimination tests, filing an IRS Form 5500 return each year, and providing benefit statements and other plan information to participants at least annually. An independent 401(k) advisor will make the process easier There are certainly many elements to consider when designing and implementing a 401(k) plan. An independent financial advisor can work with you to make the process easier. In addition, you’ll gain a valuable ally and time-saving resource who will help you develop and maintain a solid strategy for your retirement plan. Plus, you will receive personalized attention and involvement at the level you want and need.

Please contact The Seiler Group of Raymond James for a confidential consultation.

Thomas A. Seiler is Senior Vice President, Investments, at The Seiler Group of Raymond James. A graduate of Montclair University, Tom has served as an NFLPA® Financial Advisor since 2003. For more information on The Seiler Group of Raymond James, call toll free (1.855) 4SEILER (1.855.473.4537) or visit online at www.raymondjames.com/theseilergroup.

Raymond James & Associates, Inc., Member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC.

LocalLivingMag.com

January | February 2014

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4. Leading Separate Lives

Infidelity is typically citied as a top cause of divorce. Infidelity, however, is usually a symptom of an already troubled marriage. For most couples, it’s also the tipping point that signals the end of their relationship.

Couples who do manage to move past one partner’s infidelity usually take the time to understand why it happened. Cheating is frequently the result of one partner feeling unnoticed, unappreciated or unloved.

Loving couples make both social and physical intimacy a priority – even with work, children and chores filling their busy schedules. When a couple spends less and less time together, they literally grow apart.

Spouses can also grow apart when they take on entirely separate roles in the family, such as the traditional breadwinner/homemaker arrangement. Often, when one spouse exclusively stays at home caring for the house and raising the children that becomes the primary focus of his or her life. The other spouse is often neglected and their relationship suffers. Similarly, when one spouse spends little time at home and takes little responsibility for housework and caring for the children, the stayat-home spouse’s resentment builds. In both cases, a disconnect grows between the couple We’re not advocating that you and your partner be together 24/7. Rather, we’re just saying, “Make time for the two of you.

Just the two of you – without children, pets, or friends.”

6 Unexpected Reasons Why Marriages Fail & How To Avoid Them

By Kevin J. Handy, Esq., Cooley & Handy, Attorneys at Law, PLLC

The

three reasons most frequently citied for divorce are infidelity, financial problems and marrying too young. However, during my years as a family law attorney, I found that there are several other reasons why marriages fail that couples can avoid. If one of these issues is affecting you or your marriage, be proactive and take steps to fix the problem as soon as possible. Once divorce is under consideration, it’s usually too late to save the marriage.

1. Traveling for Work or Working Too Much

You’d be surprised by how many divorces are caused by careers that require frequent travel or long hours. Based on anecdotal evidence, I would say this is the second most common cause of divorce behind infidelity. Spending significant time away from a spouse and family creates a rift in a relationship. Couples drift apart because they no longer feel connected; they no longer share common experiences and no longer act like a team. The non-traveling spouse often feels abandoned in the home and solely responsible for the care of children. For the spouse who travels frequently or works long hours, loneliness often pushes them into relationships with others they meet while away. My unequivocal advice for married couples is to do everything they can to avoid careers that require frequent travel or regular long hours. The extra money will never be worth it if costs you your family.

2. One Spouse Is A Spendthrift or Tightwad

Financial problems are frequently cited as one of the primary causes of divorce, with the implication being that a lack of money is the problem.

From my experience, however, marriages don’t usually fail due to a lack of money. They fail because one spouse has an unhealthy relationship with money. Frequently these cases involve parties with significant in

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comes. In the case of a spendthrift spouse, usually one spouse will be earning a significant income and the other spouse will be spending it as fast (or faster) as it comes in. Any negative change in the parties’ financial situations can trigger financial problems and divorce because the spendthrift spouse will refuse to accept the realities of the situation.

In the case of a tightwad spouse, frequently such couples will have accumulated significant assets due to the spouse’s thrift. At some point, however, the spouse’s thrift will become extreme and he or she will refuse to allow the other spouse to make even reasonable purchases given the parties’ overall financial situation. That refusal will trigger a divorce. In both situations, the spouses’ psychological relationship towards money becomes exaggerated over time until the marriage reaches the breaking point. If this issue is affecting you, you might try talk things out with your spouse to try to set budgets or expectations.

This is a problem that can be easily solved if caught early.

3. Treating Your Spouse Like a Roommate

When I lived with a roommate, we would keep separate bank accounts and split the rent and bills each month. When I married, my wife and I combined our finances and acted like a team, working towards the same goals. It never ceases to amaze me how many divorcing couples had the “roommate” model of finances. Frequently they are surprised when I explain to them that the court won’t view their money as separate. They have been acting as a financial unit all along; they just didn’t know it and their relationship didn’t get the psychological benefit of it.

My advice is that if you are married you should combine your finances.

While each spouse should be able to spend some money as they see fit, you have to realize that if you are married, you are a team – both emotionally and financially.

LocalLivingMag.com

6. Depression or Other Psychological Issues

Psychological issues are not frequently cited as a primary driver of divorce. However, my gut tells me that undiagnosed psychological problems are a major factor in divorce. While I am not a psychologist, it’s apparent to me that many people involved in divorces have an underlying mental illness or psychological problem. Depression, for example, is known to cause marital strife. “Depression that affects one partner has an effect on the other partner, the relationship, and ultimately the entire family. Nearly 15 million American adults, or about 6.7% of the U.S. population age 18 and older, is affected with a major depression in a given year,” according to the National Institute of Mental Health. “Depression can lead to other problems,” agrees Constance Ahrons, PhD, professor emeritus of sociology at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. “Affairs aren’t the only problems. Often, one partner may get so depressed he stops working, and that can lead to a cascade of other problems.” The unaffected partner often has to pick up the slack for the depressed one.

That leads to feelings of frustration, anger and ultimately, resentment.

The good news is that most depression and other psychological problems are treatable. People beginning to have problems in their marriage need to seriously consider whether depression or some other potential mental illness is the cause. If that’s a possibility, he or she needs to push the partner to see a therapist.

5. A Controlling Spouse

A significant amount of the cases we handle involve spouses that I would call “control freaks.” Verbal, physical and emotional abuse often arises out of one partner’s need to control the other. Judith Orloff, MD, identifies control freaks as “people obsessively trying to dictate how you’re supposed to be and feel. Their comments can range from irritating to abusive.” Many of these people have narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). To successfully deal with a controller, Dr. Orloff recommends picking your battles and asserting your needs. Don’t sweat the small stuff and focus on “high priority issues that you really care about rather than bickering about putting the cap on the toothpaste.” Again, it comes down to open communication in a caring, direct manner.

However, if your case involves a spouse whose behavior has crossed the line to abuse (mental or physical), my advice would be to get out of the relationship as soon as possible.

Bottom line? There are many reasons to get divorced. And one major reason not to: love. If you are committed to making your marriage work, keep trying. Be positive. Have fun. Talk openly to each other. Add a little romance to your everyday life.

Cooley & Handy, Attorneys at Law focuses its practice in all areas of family law, including divorce, custody and support. They can be found online at www.cooleyhandy.com.

The U.S. government states that there were approximately 6.8 divorces for every 1000 marriages in the United States in 2011 (compiled from the last census.)

That figure translates to a staggering 950,000+ marriages biting the dust.

That’s the bad news. The good news – is that your relationship doesn’t have to become part of that statistic. There are ways to make your partnership work.

LocalLivingMag.com

January | February 2014

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The Evolution of Fire

By Pattie Krukowski

structures emitting flames can be custom made to fit any space. Ethanol burning portable indoor/outdoor vessels spark your primitive side.

Modeled after a traditional wood stove, design duo Ryosuke Fukusada and Rui Pereira of wooden light bulb fame, created the “Faro” fireplace, touted to “bring people together.” Its earthy and simple iron stand supports modular vessels of clay and copper and cradle an eco-smart ethanol burner. It can be used indoors and out. To make it even more flexible, you can choose to burn ethanol or wood when it’s outside. Yes: I said wooden light bulb. Google it. It’s fantastic.

Trendsetters looking for the center of attention for a room will be wowed by Planika’s smoking hot “decorative furniture with fire.” Made-to-measure, remote controlled, Smart Home System integrated, with no pipes or external install required, and BEV technology (which means Burning Ethanol Vapours, claiming to emit the same amounts of carbon dioxide and steam as we exhale). Tables designed in your choice of dimension and color-emitting flames are sure to impress even the most contemporary of fashion forward critics.

Electric fireplaces had come a long way. Easy to set up with realistic flames, these remote controlled options include surface mount, partial recession or flush mount. An ember bed of colored glass adds to the allure. The flames operate with or without heat so you can appreciate them whatever the weather.

G

rowing up in year round sunny, southern Florida in the 1970s did not provide many opportunities to gather ‘round a roaring fire. Fireplaces were a rare luxury saved for historic houses and fancy, new high rise condominiums. Our home was neither. Looking back, I can only remember two friends having fireplaces then. That’s probably why the sand pit style fires my father built for us while on week-long camping trips were always so special.

During several of my elementary school years, my parents went through their “outdoorsy stage.” They threw themselves wholeheartedly into the art of camping like nobody’s business. There was no such thing as “too prepared.” They even brought enough bundles of tinder, kindling and fuel logs for a fire or two, just in case there wasn’t enough wood in the woods surrounding our campsite.

All our gear had to be strategically packed in the car top carrier saddling our slime green station wagon complete with rear facing third seat. Upon arrival at the site, after the tent was staked, air mattresses inflated and sleeping bags unrolled, my father would artfully build and ceremoniously light the first fire

of the week. Soon, marshmallows on sticks bubbled till burnt as we huddled around the dancing flames. Everything felt particularly special in the cast of its glow. Fables became more fantastic and ghost stories more chilling as the embers burned on into the night.Once I moved north, fireplaces were commonplace yet momentous. When a fireplace graces a room, all are naturally drawn to its visual warmth. It is the core of the room’s attitude. It transforms the atmosphere from ordinary to extraordinary. Special moments are made in the crackling radiance a fireplace offers.

On my first ski trip to Vermont, my friends and I spent more time in front of a roaring fire sharing time and sipping spirits than we did skiing on the slopes.

My wedding cake was displayed on a table framed by a 7-foot tall, walk-in fireplace at an antique inn in Nantucket. One of my favorite pictures of my son on his first Christmas is of him crawling by our newly installed, remotely controlled, gas fireplace, looking quite elven in his pointy booties and cap.

As the desire for high-tech homes increased over the years, the design and efficiency of the fireplace has as well. Cutting edge, architecturally influenced

Fire pit choices range from DIY kits that resemble the ones from my camping days to sculptural garden elements for more formal settings. Combining the elements of water and fire in one structure has gained popularity with pillars of waterfalls with flaming features on top lining pools and patios.

Think about it. You are on your way home from a long day at work and you can now just use your Smartphone remote control app to keep the home fires burning on demand.

Don’t even have a fireplace? Download a 3D realistic fireplace screen saver, complete with crackle, and bask in its digital warmth.

Pattie Krukowski is a freelance writer and interior decorator currently residing in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.

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21

Color Trend 2014 When

By Susan Taylor

the last bit of Christmas has been put away and the first sigh of the new year is emitted, it is always good to look ahead to change.

With every new year, in the design business, we often have a client list waiting to make changes in their homes, some big, some small.

Just having returned from my winter market buying trip, I have seen every trend that has been displayed throughout the hundreds of showrooms.

Having been inspired, refreshed and at times horrified, it falls on me, the designer, to make suggestions for change and interpret these trends into real life.

Color is still a major focus in today’s design direction. Pantone just announced the new color of the year: Radiant Orchid. It’s a beautiful bold pink with undertones of purple. You can expect to see this popping up all over your favorite web sites, pinners going crazy finding new uses for it. We saw it in art, rugs and all manner of accessories. Navy remains very strong, as does chrome yellow and orange. Hot pink might not be right for your sofa or draperies, but a room punctuated with pink pillows or an overdyed pink rug could be a refreshing and stunning change!

changes often in such accents as pillows, accent rugs, or art. For the client who tires easily but wants to be in vogue, the door is open for frequent change using bold and creative color. Don’t be afraid to express yourself and make a statement. Use a professional for direction and put a bit of glee into your living space, knowing that you are not committing to anything that will tie you down for the next 10 years. Having fun with design makes the process delightful and perfectly yours.

You can expect to see bold color used around my retail store, Black-eyed Susan, soon! The new spring orders will be flooding my back doors soon and change is in the air! For yourself, start with an orchid in the color of the year. Brighten up your great room with a pallet of orange and navy graphic pillows! Add a collection of chartreuse vases on the coffee table. Paint the back of your bookcase with hot pink! Love your room and love your color.

Radiant Orchid. Kick off the new year with a bit of drama. It’s only a paintbrush away.

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

Consider using a striking bold color as an accent in an all-neutral setting. Using a neutral such as taupe or grey for your basic pallet leaves room to make LocalLivingMag.com

January | February 2014

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23

Tax Efficient Investing What it means, why it counts Loretta D. Hutchinson CDFA, NCC to counterbalance capital gains. In this scenario, the capital losses you incur are applied against your capital gains to lower your personal tax liability. Basically, you’re making lemonade out of the lemons in your portfolio.

When

you read about investing and other financial topics, you occasionally see the phrase “tax efficiency� or a reference to a “tax-sensitive� way of investing. With the new Medicare surtax (officially termed the Unearned Income Medicare Contribution), increasing tax brackets and deduction limitations, tax efficient investing is even more relevant in 2014. As an investor, the proper asset allocation and investment selection decisions are important but keeping costs and taxes low should also be considered.

Ignoring the effects of costs and taxes on your earnings can be a drag on your overall portfolio returns. Where we have the greatest degree of control is in the area of expenses and tax-efficient implementation. So why not exercise some control through tax-efficient investing?

Everyone wants their investment portfolio to perform well. But it is your after-tax return that really matters.

If your portfolio earns you double-digit returns, those returns really aren’t so great if you end up losing 20% or 30% of them to taxes. In other words, it is not just what you make but what you keep after taxes that counts. In periods when the return on your investments is low, tax efficiency takes on even greater importance.

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Some tax-sensitive tactics have emerged that are designed to improve after-tax returns. A few money managers commonly consider these strategies when determining whether assets in an investor’s account should be bought or sold. These strategies are used within taxable accounts and don’t apply to your individual retirement accounts or qualified retirement money.

Another rather basic tactic intended to work over the long run: tax-efficient investments are placed in taxable accounts, and less tax-efficient investments are held in tax-advantaged accounts. Of course, this presumes that you hold investments in both types of accounts. If all your investment money is in your 401(k) or IRA—just focus on asset allocation and investment selection. The bottom line is you may have a lot of control when it comes to maximizing your after-tax wealth. First, decide on a suitable asset allocation. Next, select investments that make sense for you. Then, be tax-smart about where you hold your investments.

How tax-efficient is your portfolio? It’s an excellent question, one you should consider. But this brief article shouldn’t be interpreted as tax or investment advice. If you’d like to find out more about tax-sensitive ways to invest, be sure to call me and let’s explore your options today. What you learn could be eye-opening. Hanging onto as much of your hardearned money as possible is the goal of tax-advantaged investing. I can help you invest with this goal in mind.

Looking for financial advice from a trusted advisor? Loretta Hutchinson CDFA, NCC is a Financial Advisor with Harvest Group Financial Services in Langhorne, PA and Naples, FL. She can be reached at Loretta@HarvestGroupFinancial.com or 215-860-6056.

Any information contained herein should not be construed as tax or legal advice. It is always recommended that you consult a qualified tax or legal professional regarding your personal situation.

Registered representative offering securities and advisory services through Centaurus Financial Inc., a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA and SIPC, Supervisory Branch: 3902 State Street, Suite 101, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, 1-888-569-1982. Harvest Group Financial Services and Centaurus Financial are not affiliated.

One possible method for realizing greater tax efficiency is simply to minimize buying and selling to reduce capital gains taxes. By holding onto assets, the idea is to pursue long-term gains, instead of seeking short-term gains through a series of steady transactions. Another tactic used is called “tax-loss harvesting.� This means selling certain securities at a loss LocalLivingMag.com

January | February 2014

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The

Fork-1-1 CasSOULet– French Soul Food!

By Kimberly Cambra

T

here truly is only one world renowned French dish which is as steeped in history, culture and folklore as it is steeped in pork fat, meat and beans. Cassoulet, pronounced kass-su-lay, originates from the Languedoc region in the southwest of France with its beginnings during a British attack of Castelnaudary in 1355, under the charge of Edward the Prince of Wales.

The town’s people were determined to keep their soldiers nourished for battle; together they filled and fired up a large cauldron with meats, beans and spices giving way to the creation of cassoulet. Its 14th century origins would suggest this meal to be a poor man’s dish with the readily available ingredients of meats which were smoked during this time, along with dried beans, for a long shelf life.

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

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

Still crave more about this iconic dish? Believe it or not the Universal Cassoulet Academy is a school for chefs dedicated to the practiced art of cooking cassoulet; here they can acquire their Master Cassoulet Chef certification. It is headquartered in Carcassonne, France with five other global embassies in Japan, Germany, USA, England and Canada.

Their mission is to bring together men and women for whom expertise, quality and originality equate to a love of life in thought, word and deed and to eating well. At their core is the belief to organize and take part in the gastronomic, the cultural, and the artistic, with the sole aim of promoting cassoulet throughout the world and developing awareness of the region’s Master Cassoulet Chefs. So… c’est si bon viva la cassoulet –madams and monsieurs– ain’t no weenies and beans we’re talkin’!

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

Realistically, a cassoulet recipe can be interpretive with regards to ingredi-

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

Bon Appetit from the FORK-1-1!

Castelnaudary

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27

Warm Winter Cocktails

By Michele Kawamoto Perry

N

ow that winter weather has settled in, there is nothing better than a hot cocktail to warm you up and lift your spirits! Fortunately, there is a winter cocktail for every palate. You can add some flair to your coffee or tea, reminisce with friends over a cider drink, indulge the child in you with a hot chocolate drink, or relax with a glass of mulled wine. We have compiled some classic recipes to keep you toasty and merry this winter. Cheers!

Casa Casale is about making yourself at home!

Feel the warmth of Italian heritage!

Irish Coffee 1 cup of coffee (5 oz.)

1 1/2 oz of Irish whiskey 1 1/2 tsp brown sugar Whipped heavy or double cream Pour sugar and hot coffee into glass or mug and dissolve the sugar.

Then, add the Irish whiskey. Top with the lightly whipped cream Spiced Rum Cider 8 cups of cider 1 cup of dark rum 3 cinnamon sticks 2 tsp of whole cloves 1/4 tsp of nutmeg Oranges, lemons or apples to garnish Mix ingredients in a pot and simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally. Pour into cups and garnish with orange, lemon or apple slices.

You can also add a touch of fresh ginger to the mix if you like a little more spice. 8-10 servings.

Hot Toddy 1 tea bag 1 cup of hot water 1 tbsp honey 1/4 lemon 1 to 1 1/4 oz. whiskey, rum or brandy Cinnamon or nutmeg to taste Steep tea in a cup or hot water. Pour honey into glass, then add lemon and spirit of your choice. Add the tea to the glass and stir. Add cinnamon or nutmeg to taste. 1 serving.

Hot Peppermint Patty 1/2 oz. crème de cacao dark 1 oz. peppermint schnapps 1 tsp. crème to menthe 6 oz. hot chocolate Combine crème de cacao, crème de menthe and peppermint schnapps into glass or mug. Add hot chocolate. Top whip cream and peppermint candies or chocolate shavings.

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Mulled Wine 1 bottle (750ml) of inexpensive Red Wine (Merlot, Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon) 1/4 cup of brandy 1/4 to 1/3 cup of sugar (white or brown) or honey to taste 3 cinnamon sticks 4 whole cloves 1 tsp. of fresh ginger (or 1 1/2 tsps. of ground) 2 star anise 1 orange worth of zest

Combine all ingredients in a pot and cook over low to medium heat (don’t boil it) for about 25 minutes. Stir occasionally. Make sure all the sugar is dissolved.

Then, take it off the heat and serve! 5 servings.

Michele Kawamoto Perry is a wine industry veteran, sommelier, and international wine educator. Michele is a Certified Sommelier and instructor through the International Sommelier Guild, and co-owner of Rouge-Bleu winery in southern Rhone, France. She received her MBA from Bordeaux Business School with a focus on the wine industry, and her BA from Harvard University.

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Book Your Valentines Reservations Now! Mamita’s 18 S. State St. | 215.860.1133 Historic Newtown www.FlorentinosRestaurant.com Full Menu Available for Take-Out Open 6 Days Tues.-Thurs. 5-9 Fri. & Sat. 5-10 | Sun 4-9

Mamita’s Restaurante Latino 12-14 Cambridge Lane Newtown, PA 18940 215-968-5700 www. mamitasbyo.com Open 6 days, Tues-Thurs 11-9, Fri & Sat 11-10, Sun 11-9, closed Mondays

1251 River Rd. | 215.321.8789 Washington Crossing www.FranciscosOnTheRiver.com Reservations Suggested Open 6 Days Tues.-Thurs. 5-9 Fri. & Sat. 5-10 | Sun 4-9

feisty fish tacos Fe a t u r i n g Ke l c h n e r ’s S p i c y S r i r a c h a S a u c e ®

Aroi Thai Bistro Authentic Thai food in a traditional Thai house atmosphere. Experience flavor honed by generations of past Masters when you enjoy Aroi.

Use Kelchner’s Spicy Sriracha Sauce to kick ®

your recipes up a notch

Perfect for spicing up game-day snacks or adding some heat to your Valentine’s Day dinner

Scan our QR code to get the recipe! or visit our website: kelchnershorseradish.com

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                32

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Basil: The Queen of Herbs

By Gabrielle Mwangi

Basil’s

history as an herb is fascinating. In Hinduism, it’s referred to as Holy Basil because devotees perform worship ceremonies using basil leaves and plants. In ancient Ayurveda science (the traditional Hindu system of medicine, which is based on the idea of balance in bodily systems and uses diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing) a concoction featuring basil has been documented as potent remedy for a variety of conditions:

To make a basil cleansing facemask you’ll need: • 1 egg: Use whites for oil, acne prone skin. Use whole egg for dry and normal skin • Several fresh basil leaves • A pinch of turmeric • A few drops of fresh lemon juice (skip for extremely dry skin)

• Basil leaves taken with honey keeps chicken pox at bay • Warm basil juice is a potent de-wormer • Basil juice is an effective natural insecticide • Basil leaves with honey and ginger are an effective remedy against bronchitis and common cold • Basil paste will sooth stings from scorpions, wasps or bees • Basil as a detoxifying agent can help reduce uric acid, preventing kidney stones • Basil leaves boiled in water act as a preventive against malaria and dengue fever • Chewing basil leaves counteracts bad breath and sooths gum inflammation • Basil soothes the digestive system to relieve acidity, constipation and flatulence • Basil causes a drop in blood sugar, which may be helpful for people with diabetes • Basil restricts the blood vessels that feed tumors and its alkaline nature make it impossible for cancer cells to thrive. (Basil alone, however, is not a sufficient treatment of cancer.)

How to use: • Finely chop the basil leaves, add the egg, lemon juice and turmeric then let the mixture sit for 10 minutes • Cleanse the face with warm water to open the pores • Apply the mixture by gently rubbing it all over the face and neck paying close attention to problem areas • Leave on for about 20 minutes or until the mask is dry to the touch • Wash off thoroughly with a warm towel • Slather that moisturizer on like you mean it

Most of us think of basil as nothing more than a spice herb to enhance flavors of different meals. And while it’s true marinara sauce is not quite the same without the sweet and pungent flavor of basil, there’s a plethora of unsung benefits of basil when used for skincare. A cousin of the mint family, basil has antifungal, antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which inhibit bacterial infections that cause breakouts and naturally cleanse the skin. Basil is also full of antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage.

My favorite part about this mask is basil’s sweet, spicy aroma and a soft tingling “wake up” sensation that encourages blood flow. Oh and the best part? Basil works great on the skin, whether you eat raw leaves or apply a paste to the face.

PS: There are two kinds of basil. The regular basil is tangy with a mild sweetness. Although now favored as the herb of choice in Italian cuisine, Thai sweet basil, native to Southeast Asia, has a sweeter flavor and aroma than regular basil. Both are effective but the stronger pleasant aroma of Thai sweet basil gives it an edge over the regular version, in my opinion.

Gabrielle is Fashion & Beauty Editor for Local Living Magazine. Her YouTube channel, Duchess Gabrielle, focuses on homemade skin and hair care products. She has modeled for Bergdorf Goodman, Lucky and Glamour. She left East Africa in 2006, where she was an actress and radio personality.

Volunteering: How to choose the right Animal Rescue Shelter

Every

By Carla Papciak-Glatts

year it is estimated that 6 to 8 million dogs and cats are cared for in area shelters in the United States. An even more disturbing number is that 3 to 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized due to no room, low adoption numbers, sickness or being deemed unadoptable. Most nonprofit shelters are funded through donations, grants and fundraising. The money goes to the care of the animals and medical expenses. Many of the shelters have a paid staff, but they look for volunteers to dedicate their time to assist in daily maintenance and care.

When choosing an animal shelter to volunteer, take the time to do some research online. Ask yourself a few questions: Is the shelter within driving distance? What are the job responsibilities for a volunteer? How old do you have to be to volunteer? What is their mission statement? Are they a kill or no-kill shelter? What types of animals do they rescue? Remember, rescue shelters can have dogs, cats, snakes, turtles, rabbits, hamsters, birds, guinea pigs and sometimes horses! All of these questions can help guide you to pick the right shelter.

Rescue shelters can use volunteers in all aspects of their operations. Tasks range from animal care, socialization, cleaning kennels, facility and ground maintenance to clerical and office work. Most shelters operate with skeletal staff and volunteers are their treasure. Many people volunteer because they have a love for animals. Of those volunteers, some hold a variety of responsibilities throughout the organization.

Once you pick a rescue shelter, visit and interview them to inquire about their operation. How many animals do they adopt a year? Do they have a volunteer orientation? Do they require a minimum number of hours for 34

Local Living January | February 2014

volunteers? Talk with other volunteers and get feedback from them on their experiences with staff and overall operation.

Volunteering at an Animal Shelter can be very rewarding. Taking an animal out of its cage for a walk outside, to a social event, or to sit in the hospitality room and play, releases the animal from their stressful environment.

Whether it’s volunteering for two hours or an entire day, you can help these animals with their social skills, training, and provide them with extra love and care. Besides, you never know who you will meet in the lobby or outside of the shelter with your animal; it could be a potential adopter. The more socialization the animals have at the shelters with various people the more adaptive they will be in their new home.

I personally volunteer at a few local shelters in my area. I always look forward to getting out and volunteering and it’s always nice to be greeted by a wagging tail. I have cried tears of joy when I’ve seen the dog that I have worked with get adopted. I have laughed from observing the goofiness a dog or cat can display when at play. I have also sobbed when I have seen a dog and cat live its life in the shelter and pass away without ever being adopted. But, I am happy I can dedicate my time and share that experience not only with the animals, but with other volunteers.

Visit this site for a directory of shelters by county: http://www.humaneinpa.org/countyshelters.html Carla Papciak-Glatts is an animal activist, shelter volunteer and a busy mom of two girls and two German Shepherds, residing in Upper Bucks County.

LocalLivingMag.com

A Zenful Practice to Inner Peace

By Andrea Preziotti

Zen

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

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

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

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

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

Mindfully commit to your intention. Whether for ten minutes or 90 prepare your heart and mind to be present in this moment, leaving everything nonessential behind. Things like the laundry, your list of to do items, the pile of papers that need to be filed, all those unanswered emails--they’ll all keep. Put the computer to sleep, ask your partner to mind the kids and the dog, turn off your phone and step into it.

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

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BOOK RELEASE ANNOUNCING THE ACTION PLAN TO RESTORE THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA TO ITS POSITION AS THE WORLD’S FOREMOST ECONOMIC SUPER POWER

MADE IN AMERICA 2.0 “10 Big Ideas for Saving the United States of America from Economic Disaster” In his newest book, J. Henry Warren presents a concise discussion and a practical action plan for addressing the need for job creation in the manufacturing sector of the United States. An author and natural entrepreneur, Warren’s experience over decades as an American manufacturer bring credibility and common sense to his perspective on how to reinvigorate the industry.

Available through your local bookstore’s order desk or at these online bookstores: Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, Xlibris.com or by phone at 1-888-795-4274 ext. 7879.

HOMECOMING Transforming Grief

Tickling on the Ivories

By Tara Hein-Phillips

It

was a bitterly cold February morning in 1991 when I learned that my brother had been killed in the first Gulf war, in the hours after the ceasefire.

The night before was the first that I had gone to bed happy, believing the war to be over, which it was; but not for my brother. My father called me, his voice distorted with grief and I fell to the floor. My brother had been my oldest friend, my closest family, and he was gone. I stood shivering in the dark, my now ex-husband quietly crying for what I had lost, and perhaps presciently for all that we were about to lose. I stood in the cold unravelling, shattering, sensing that this undoing would either be the end or the beginning of me.

Those first months were like clinging on to the edge of a cliff. It felt like a betrayal to my brother’s memory to get on with my life. Even in those worst moments though, there was something – an almost inaudible whisper: you can do this. I had been cracked open, was still in pieces, but I was surviving and maybe that meant that I was stronger than I thought. And, if the worst had already happened, why would I need to fear anything ever again?

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I got to practice my new found strength and fearlessness when three months later my father’s cancer became terminal. I joined my mother and sister in nursing my father through the last days of his life, which included some chilling life and death decision making. My grief intensified – but, my strength grew. More importantly, my compassion grew too. I was able to truly feel the pain of others much more deeply than before but also see the moments of true beauty radiating through those experiences, so terrible that one cannot help but be one’s true self: When light breaks through that oppressive darkness.

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My life came back to me just like that, one moment at a time. Someone would make me laugh, or the air would smell of autumn, and, despite myself,

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I would feel happy. As deep as my grief will always be, I now am able to experience more joy and more love than I did before. New joys came into my life, most powerfully my husband and my incredible son. I give thanks for them every day and for all of my family and friends for filling my life with wonderful, rich moments to balance out the darker ones.

Losing my brother was the making of me; that is true. What would I choose if someone offered me the option to have another life, one where he doesn’t die? I still cannot answer that. Thankfully, a rich and fulfilling life does not require that, just a willingness to let life unfold even in the deepest darkness and be open to the idea that even (perhaps only) those unimaginable experiences can open the door to true strength, compassion, and real happiness.

Tara Hein-Phillips runs a consultancy in London and is a freelance writer as time permits. She is a New Yorker at heart, living in semi-exile in Sevenoaks, England, with her husband and son.

“My grief intensified –

but, my strength grew.

More importantly, my compassion grew too.”

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Help is just a phone call (or click) away.

St. Luke’s Goes MOBILE! www.sluhn.org

It Wasn’t the Stork Who Helped Deliver this Precious Bundle

For more information please visit www.sluhn.org from your mobile device or call St. Luke’s InfoLink toll-free at 1-866-STLUKES.

Feel confident and comfortable knowing our team of five obstetrical physicians are here to deliver your baby.

Make the right choice. Call for an appointment today.

1-866-STLUKES (785-8537) JEAN O. FITZGERALD, MD • VIVIAN YEH, MD • CAROLYN IANIERI, DO NESTOR I. SENDZIK, MD • TUAN A. LE, MD 708 Shady Retreat Rd., Suite 7, Doylestown, PA 18901 215.340.2229 • www.doylestownwomenshealth.com Most Insurances Accepted

Call St. Luke’s InfoLink for physician referral, information on health screenings, lectures, support groups and community programs.

Did you know St. Luke’s Quakertown Campus offers...

St. Luke’s Hospital – Quakertown Campus, a not-for-profit community hospital and part of St. Luke’s University Health Network, is dedicated to providing patients and visitors with quality health care delivered with outstanding customer service.

Since the acquisition of Quakertown Community Hospital in 1995, St. Luke’s has made significant investments to provide high-quality health care to the region.

With the addition of several outpatient services in Upper Bucks and Upper Montgomery Counties and the inclusion of new technology in our facilities, our patients find state-of-the-art health care with ease.

Cancer Center

St. Luke’s Cancer Center is staffed by an excellent team of cancer care professionals. The new Women’s Health Center includes a breast surgical oncologist, a gynecologic oncologist and a medical oncologist specializing in cancer care for women. From diagnostic testing to infusion therapy, St. Luke’s Quakertown Campus offers options close-to-home.

Heart & Vascular Center

St. Luke’s Heart & Vascular Center provides you with the expertise of cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists. As a team, we diagnose your condition, give you the best options for care and put all the pieces together for you.

Neuroscience

St. Luke’s is dedicated to providing expert care of conditions and excellence in research and education relating to neurologic conditions. Highly skilled teams of physician specialists, nurses and other caregivers at St. Luke’s Center for Neuroscience – Quakertown Campus provide the highest quality care, drive technology forward and bring the future of health care to our region.

Orthopaedics

Our bone and joint services comprise a full range of care for orthopaedicrelated diseases and conditions. Whether you are experiencing arthritis, other connective tissue disorders, or in need of hip or knee surgery, we offer world-class, comprehensive care by a team of expert orthopaedic surgeons and specialists who work together on a treatment plan.

Outpatient Testing

At St. Luke’s we understand your time is valuable, so take advantage of our extended lab and radiology hours. For your convenience, many of our testing services offer early morning, evening and Saturday hours. Outpatient testing includes Walk-In Lab, Walk-In Xray, Mammography, CT Scan, MRI, Ultrasound and Dexa Scan.

Pain Management

The doctors and staff of St. Luke’s Spine & Pain Associates provide specialized care to reduce patients’ pain and to improve their quality of life through the latest medical and surgical treatments. The office is staffed by fellowship-trained physicians, specialty-trained nurse practitioner and nurses who are educated to treat a wide variety of conditions.

General Surgery

St. Luke’s Quakertown Campus offers specialized general surgery by physicians who are fellowship trained in minimally invasive surgery. With this approach to surgery, the surgeons are able to use small incisions, resulting in less pain after surgery, a shorter hospitalization, and a faster recovery.

Plastic Surgery

For many people, a change in appearance can be a major factor in moving beyond the past and developing a more assured, positive self-image. At Body Evolution, we specialize in aesthetic/cosmetic surgery of the face, eyes, nose, breasts and body. Reconstructive surgery can repair birth defects, burn wounds, breasts after mastectomy and much more.

Need a Primary Care Physician?

St. Luke’s Quakertown has several area primary care practices that are accepting new patients and most offer night and weekend hours. Contact St. Luke’s to find a physician in your area.

For more information on these services or more, call St. Luke’s Info Link toll-free at 1-866-STLUKES, or visit us at www.sluhn.org.

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The Women’s Center at Einstein Medical Center Montgomery

The

Women’s Center at Einstein Medical Center Montgomery is bringing some of the most advanced breast cancer screening technology to the region by providing a nearly “three-dimensional” mammography image during screening. Einstein Montgomery is one of the few medical centers in the Philadelphia area that provides Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) as a nocost supplement to traditional two-dimensional mammography.

Einstein was among the first hospitals in the Philadelphia area and in the state of Pennsylvania to use DBT, and has found that it dramatically improves cancer detection, according to Debra Somers Copit, MD, Director of Breast Imaging for Einstein Healthcare Network. Every patient who is screened gets a regular mammogram and DBT at the same time and the two results are compared. “We’re amazed on an almost weekly basis at the cancers we find that we couldn’t detect on two-dimensional images,” Dr. Copit said. Traditional mammography remains the standard because doctors detect cancer by comparing images from separate scans, which in the past have all been twodimensional. But Dr. Copit believes that in time as DBT becomes uniformly available, it will ultimately become the standard screening procedure.

In addition to advanced cancer detection, DBT also greatly reduces the frequency with which patients are called back to retake a mammogram because of a potentially suspicious finding. “One of the criticisms of mammography is that too many patients are recalled to get extra views, which may be cancer but are mostly not. The recall rate with DBT drops dramatically, which is very important. It decreases the cost of mammography and, more importantly, it decreases patient anxiety and inconvenience.”

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“Tomosynthesis is a huge leap, the biggest leap in the breast imaging world since the conversion to digital mammography,” Dr. Copit said. “Our radiologists are among the most experienced with DBT in the country.”

In addition to DBT and traditional mammography, Einstein Montgomery physicians use MRI, when necessary, to detect breast cancer. Breast cancer screening is part of the comprehensive array of diagnostic and treatment services available at the Women’s Center at Einstein Montgomery. Dr. Copit, nationally known for her expertise in breast imaging, is one of 30 breast cancer experts who make up the team at Einstein Montgomery’s new, state-ofthe-art facility.

Cutting-edge technology complements patient-oriented, compassionate care and expedited treatment at the Women’s Center. A fast-track program guarantees that every woman with a diagnosed breast abnormality is seen at the imaging center and evaluated by a surgeon within 24 to 48 hours. Einstein Montgomery also has been designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology.

Call 1-800-EINSTEIN to make an appointment at the Women’s Center, conveniently located just down the road from the medical center at 700 West Germantown Pike in East Norriton.

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Make Your Local Living BETTER with the Best

A

re you still recuperating from 2013? Still catching your breath from all the excitement? A spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down, sure. But as we all navigate the complicated landscape of modern healthcare these days, one thing is for certain: Preventative measures continue to improve our chances for longevity. Have you checked your blood pressure lately? How’s your cholesterol? With the caliber of talented and accomplished healthcare

COSMETIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

providers listed here, there realy is no excuse for putting off another day for an overdue check up.

Get in touch. Tune up. On the flipside, if you already know you need a specialist, you’ll find one here among Local Living’s featured regional experts.

Regaining or maintaining a strong, pain-free body, enriches your own life and the lives of everyone else around you too. Make the time so you can take the leap.

DR. ROBERT SKALICKY 104 Pheasant Run, Newtown, PA (215) 702-8600

L OUR FEATURED

DOCS for 2014 46

Local Living January | February 2014

ooking to spruce up your appearance? Remove some bulges around the waistline? Or perhaps get rid of a few wrinkles around the mouth? Then your answer may be right within the office of Dr. Robert Skalicky.

Board Certified in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery and having won multiple awards for excellence in aesthetic surgery, Dr. Robert Skalicky has helped thousands of women and men achieve the “look” they have always wanted. Dr. Skalicky has over 20 years of plastic surgery experience and performs all types of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Whether it is breast augmentation, facial rejuvenation, body contouring, rhinoplasty, or “tummy tucks,” Dr. Skalicky’s skill and artistry has catapulted him to the forefront of plastic and aesthetic surgery excellence. “Plastic surgery is more than surgical procedures and rejuvenation. Rather, it is an art form that seeks to pair the right procedures to the right patient to create the appropriate aesthetic outcome. All procedures are not for all patients. It is critical to create a game plan for each patient that considers not only their specific anatomy, but also their short and long term goals and desires.”

While Dr. Skalicky’s practice encompasses all plastic surgery procedures, he has developed a particular expertise in minimally and

LocalLivingMag.com

non-invasive procedures. According to Dr. Skalicky, “There is a wave of patients that want aesthetic improvement with less downtime and recovery. This desire has led to my creation of The Rinklefree Center that utilizes less invasive procedures to give a rejuvenated look for patients at earlier ages with little or no recovery. It is the perfect answer for patients that don’t want to wait for the aging process to fully show its effects.”

Dr. Skalicky’s Center specializes in mini facelifts and eyelid lifts, fat transfer procedures, non-invasive fat removal, neck liposuction, breast lifts, BOTOX, and facial fillers for wrinkles.

All of these procedures can be performed in the office setting without need for expensive hospital and anesthesia costs. Most recently, Dr. Skalicky now offers patients the option of Voluma, the latest facial injectable for adding volume to the face that has been lost over the years. “Voluma is a game changer in facial aesthetics. It fills a void that Juvederm and Restylene were unable to fill. Much of facial aging has to do with volume loss, not just skin laxity. Voluma now allows patients to regain that lost volume and even allows patients to delay the need for facelift procedures,” adds Dr. Skalicky.

The path to “the new you” begins with a complimentary consultation with Dr. Skalicky at which time an aesthetic game plan will be created that is individualized for you. All details of the procedures being considered will be discussed in a relaxed format. “It is critically important that patients understand all details of their procedure so that their expectations are intact and their understanding is complete,” states Dr. Skalicky.

“With the right approach, cosmetic surgery can be an extremely rewarding experience.”

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DENTISTRY

OPHTHALMOLOGIST

DR. SANJAY KAMAT Bucks Eye Specialists 301 Oxford Valley Rd, Ste 801A, Yardley, PA (215) 493-7330 www.buckseyespecialists.com

Dr. Kamat is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, the Pennsylvania and Bucks County Medical Societies as well as many other professional groups. Dr. Kamat has spoken on different subjects on the local and national level. He has chaired and co-chaired a number of national meetings for the American Osteopathic College of Ophthalmology.

DR. MICHAEL CONRAD 770 Fetters Lane, Wescosville, PA (610) 398-1435

D

r. Michael Conrad, an Allentown native, received his B.S. from Muhlenberg College in 1973. After graduating from Temple University School of Dentistry in 1978, he served for over four years as a dental officer in the U.S. Navy.

Stationed in Great Lakes, Illinois and Okinawa, Japan, he received extensive post-graduate training in General Dentistry with special emphasis in Oral Surgery and Endodontics.

He began private practice in 1982 and moved to his current location in 1994. Dr. Conrad and his associate, Dr. Deborah Campbell, pride themselves in using the latest and best of modern technology for comfortable patient care. The office was one of the first in the area to offer the Cerec system of in-office, computer-fabricated porcelain restorations- crowns, veneers and onlays- in just a little over an hour. Situated in a country-like location, the office offers views of nature though the large windows in the treatment rooms, and also uses the Technology Lighting Center for comfortable patient lighting without the glare often associated with dental care. The system allows for patient education with an easy-to-view monitor

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over the patient’s chair, as well as a wide selection of cable channels for patient entertainment during treatment. The office sees patients of all ages, but children are especially happy with the televisions above their heads, and are often almost “hypnotized” by cartoons and children’s shows. It really takes away the stress from dental care.

“Many of our staff members have been with us for years,” says Dr. Conrad. “This helps greatly in offering our patients a comfortable continuity of care. It’s always nice to see a friendly, familiar face.”

The goal of the office is to provide comfortable dental care in the most gentle manner possible, always trying to give our patients that individualized treatment which everyone deserves. Each room is computerized, and the office uses only digital x-rays. Working with local oral surgeons, they restore dental implants on a regular basis for the best tooth replacement options.

Dr. Conrad also serves as the Chief Dentist for the Allentown School District.

LocalLivingMag.com

I

n a sea of choices for family eye care, Dr. Sanjay Kamat and his practice stand out with clarity. Dr. Kamat, a board certified ophthalmologist, has been in practice for 12 years, beginning in Philadelphia for the first 7 years and then taking over the practice of his childhood ophthalmologist in Yardley 5 years ago. He is a vastly experienced and caring physician who takes complete care of all your family’s ophthalmic needs. He is among the few physicians in the country (fourth in the country and first in the tri-state area) to offer IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light to treat the common condition of dry eye.

In addition to all-laser LASIK services, Dr. Kamat also provides treatment for cataracts, ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid), diabetic eye disease, and blepharitis, or lid margin disease. The practice is also a destination to find the hottest looks in eyewear as well as a location to pick up your contact lenses.

Dr. Kamat is board certified and a fellow of the American Osteopathic College of Ophthalmology. He is a clinical instructor at the prestigious Wills Eye Institute in Philadelphia and is also the ophthalmologist for the Cancer Treatment Centers of America’s Northeast Regional Center in Philadelphia. He is also on staff at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Langhorne, PA, Aria Bucks County Campus in Langhorne, PA and Campus Eye Group in Hamilton, NJ.

How does he do it all? What motivates a man to do so much?

He was an outstanding student early on and was identified for med school while still in high school. He never lost sight of his pursuits in medicine.

“Honestly, sometimes I don’t know what keeps me going.

You get into a groove and you just go.”

I had a beloved uncle who was a heart surgeon, and an aunt I loved who was a pediatric neurologist at CHOP in Philly. I always looked up to them and I knew my destiny was in medicine.” He was given a stethoscope as a gift at age six.

Dr. Kamat has been a longtime native to Bucks County for over 30 years, moving here with his family while in first grade.

Career highlights include Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia for nearly seven years, where he gained invaluable experience in complicated cataract, oculoplastic trauma, and anterior segment surgery. He also served as one of the ophthalmologists for Moss Rehabilitation Hospital.

“I am a good dad, a good husband, and I work hard. But when I am home, I am home. You need that balance. And you need to love what you do.” Dr. Kamat currently resides in Washington Crossing within Lower Makefield Township with his wife and two children.

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DR. BARRY N. WASSERMAN 100 Canal Pointe Blvd Suite 112, Princeton, NJ (877) 598-EYES (3937) OPHTHALMOLOGIST DR. WASSERMAN is a board certified ophthalmologist and the Medical Director of New Jersey Eye Laser Centers at Princeton. He is an accomplished LASIK surgeon, pediatric ophthalmologist and educator.

As a certified VISX Excimer Laser surgeon, he performs LASIK refractive surgery for the correction of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism as a fellowship trained pediatric ophthalmologist, Dr. Wasserman is a clinical instructor of pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. He also teaches eye medicine and surgery at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, New Jersey. Locally, he is an attending sur-

PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

geon at St. Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick and the Princeton Medical Center’s Outpatient Surgery Center.

DR. EDWARD KOLE

Along with his expertise in LASIK surgery, Dr. Wasserman has an extensive background in pediatric eye surgery as well as the surgical correction of adult eye muscle disorders. In private practice since 1997, he is sought after for his expertise in the surgical correction of misaligned, wandering and crossed eyes in adults and children. Dr. Wasserman also performs eyelid plastic surgery and is expertly trained in the administration of BOTOX for the treatment of eyelid muscle spasms.

Kole Plastic Surgery Center 1003 Street Road, Southampton (215) 354-1010 www.KolePlasticSurgery.com www.FreezetheFatPhilly.com

Dr. Wasserman and his staff are committed to providing his patients with the latest laser technology, exceptional personalized attention and the best results. Visit their office and see for yourself.

a lunch break. After treatment, patients typically find it easy to return to their planned activities, Developed by Harvard scientists, this alternative to liposuction is FDA cleared. No needles. No scars. After a mere few months, your clothes will fit better and you will look better. What’s more, there are no pills or supplements. And as long as you maintain your normal diet and exercise, your long-term results should remain stable.

DR. ROBERT J. WILLARD 203 Lower State Rd. Building 200, Doylestown, PA (215) 345-6643 920 Lawndale Ave. Suite 3, Sellersville (267) 354-1440 www.dermatologyandmohs.com DR. WILLARD is a graduate of Jefferson Medical College and a Philadelphia native. Following graduation from Jeffeson, he entered active duty in the U.S. Army and completed an internship in internal medicine at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Following a tour as a general medical officer in South Korea, he returned to Walter Reed and the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD for his dermatology residency, which he completed in 2003. He served as the dermatologist at Fort Campbell, KY and then spent time in private practice before seeking further sub-specialty training in Mohs surgery.

He completed his fellowship training in Mohs surgery and cutaneous oncology at Brown University Medical School before establishing Der-

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DERMATOLOGY matology and Mohs Surgery Center in Doylestown. Mohs surgery is a highly advanced treatment for skin cancer requiring extensive fellowship sician serves as oncologic surgeon, pathologist, and reconstructive surgeon. Dr. Willard has performed over 10,000 Mohs surgery cases and reconstructive surgeries, and is among only approximately 1100 physicians in the country who are fellowship-trained in this field. He is currently the chief of the Division of Dermatology at Abington Memorial Hospital.

Dr. Willard is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, a Fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, and a Fellow of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. He has authored book chapters in general dermatology and laser surgery, has published several articles in prominent medical journals, and has lectured at several national meetings.

Dr. Willard is currently on staff at the following hospitals: Abington Hospital, Doylestown Hospital, Grand View Hospital.

LocalLivingMag.com

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r. Edward Kole’s practice has become most notably popular not only because of a reputation for exceptional results, but also due to the groundbreaking procedure he is performing daily. It is called CoolSculpting® and it’s the latest innovation in non-invasive alternatives to permanently eliminating so-called muffin tops and love handles and more. The patented proprietary procedure uses a precise and controlled cooling technology that targets fat cells under the skin and freezes them to the point of crystallization.

Once the fat cells are crystallized, a process called apoptosis takes place and the fat cells die; these cells are then metabolized and eliminated from your body through the lymphatic system. Results can be seen in as little as three weeks after the procedure, with the maximum benefit achieved within three months. Stubborn fat in a targeted area slowly shrinks over time; the fat is permanently destroyed and there’s no damage to the skin or healthy tissue.

CoolSculpting is the only method of non-invasive fat reduction that uses this innovative cooling method.

Also, because the procedure is non-invasive, there is no need for needles or anesthesia, no incisions, no pain, and no recovery time.

Each session lasts one hour and therefore can easily fit into

Besides CoolSculpting and liposuction, Dr. Kole and his staff perform a variety of plastic surgery procedures. These include tummy tucks, breast enhancements, procedures of the head and neck, including facelifts, forehead and eyelid lifts, rhinoplasty and otoplasty, cosmetic injectables, and microdermabrasion. Although most of his patients are women, Dr. Kole also performs cosmetic and surgical procedures on an increasing number of men.

Dr. Kole graduated with honors from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and then completed five years of general surgery training, as well as a second residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery. He is board certified in both general surgery and plastic and reconstructive surgery by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery.

In private practice since 1998, Dr. Kole is medical director of Kole Plastic Surgery Center and his patients include hundreds of men and women throughout the counties of Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia. He has built his reputation on listening carefully to his patients and providing the information they need to make the best choices for their procedures.

In addition to being among the region’s leading specialists in surgical and cosmetic medicine, Dr. Kole’s office has gained outstanding recognition for this safe, nonsurgical procedure, CoolScultping.

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St. Luke’s University Health Network Named One of the Nation’s 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals for Sixth Time by Truven Health Analytics

2013

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Top Ear, Nose and Throat Care in Your Neighborhood Pinnacle ENT Associates provides expert care at our state-of-the-art facilities throughout Bucks and Montgomery Counties. Our ear, nose and throat doctors and surgeons specialize in a full complement of ENT procedures and treatments for both adults and children, including:

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St. Luke’s University Health Network has been a long-time partner of Local Living and we congratulate them on their continuous path of success and deserved recognition.

St. Luke’s University Health Network has once again named one of the nation’s 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals by Truven Health Analytics. Truven Health Analytics (formerly known as Thomson Reuters) is a leading provider of information and solutions to improve the cost and quality of healthcare.

The Truven Health 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals study evaluates performance in key areas: risk-adjusted mortality, risk-adjusted complications, core measures (a group of measures that assess process of care), percentage of coronary bypass patients with internal mammary artery use, 30-day mortality rates, 30-day readmission rates, severity-adjusted average length of stay, and wage- and severity-adjusted average cost. The study is celebrating its 14th year and has been conducted annually since 1999.

This is the sixth time St. Luke’s has achieved the impressive status of being among the elite best cardiovascular hospitals in the United States. Previous award years include 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2012. Prior to 2012, the award recognized 100 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals.

Lankenau Medical Center in Wynnewood, PA, was the only other Pennsylvania hospital recognized this year, according to the report.

“We are extremely proud to be recognized by Truven for this designation,” said Donna Sabol, RN, MSN, VP & Chief Quality Officer. “Exceeding the national benchmarks and being named to the country’s top fifty performing hospitals in treating the two most common cardiovascular conditions -- heart attacks and heart failure-- and the two most common interventions (PCI) and (CABG) reflects the excellent care that our clinicians provide every day to benefit our patients.”

St. Luke’s University Health Network is comprised of six hospitals and provides services at more than 150 sites, and includes home health, hospice 52

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IC SINUS ON ITI S HR

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If all cardiovascular providers in the U.S. performed at the level of this year’s winners:• 8,600 additional lives could be saved • $1 billion could be saved • 3,200 additional bypass and angioplasty patients could be complication-free More information on this study and other 100 Top Hospitals research is available at 100tophospitals.com. For more information on Truven Health Analytics, visit truvenhealth.com. For more information about St. Luke’s University Health Network, visit www.sluhn.org.

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How to Be a Fashion Do in 2014!

(Aka Tips on how to be glamorous on a budget in the New Year!)

As

we all reflect on what we would like to resolve to do in 2014, the resolution all fellow fashionistas can always agree upon is that we want to stay glamorous but on a budget.

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Then make a wish list based on the forecasted trends of 2014 pieces you are in love with and possibly need to update your current wardrobe.

Ripping out looks from magazines are great visual aids in this process.

Then play in your closet by taking pieces from your wardrobe in new combinations to try and create the looks you love from your magazine favorites.

That being said, we all have different budgets and pieces we want to invest in to feel current in the ever-changing world of fashion. First determine what your budget is for the season or year. Then reflect on what you would love to add or replace in your current wardrobe. I personally will always want a new bag and vintage jewels. This is always what I spend most of my budget on each season and year. To deny this always leads me to overspending and trying to balance my budget.

Anything that you don’t currently own but feel you need to update your look goes on to your wish list. Then review your fashion wish list and determine what shoe, bag or clothing item is what you want to invest in to update your look. Being realistic as to whether you want to invest in a better bag, jacket or shoe helps tailor your budget and determine how and in what pieces you are willing to invest your fashion dollars.

I, like other fashionistas in years and seasons past, have purchased amazing pieces but not always what I will really wear and want for the new season.

Others hunger for the latest trends in clothing and shoes! As mentioned, we all have different passions that must be taken into consideration before creating our wish list for the new year. To thine own self be true applies in all areas of life, including the fashion world and can help you stay on a budget.

Believe it or not we are all on a budget. It may be on a sliding scale, for which some of us must endure the unfair nature of the fashion gods. However! It is my promise that with a little effort and time spent in our very own closets prior to the start of the new year and fashion season, magic can happen. With a new combo here or there with your existing pieces, you can invest in your new must-have pieces responsibly, and feel glamorous and ready to face the year ahead in amazing style!!­—

Take a little time while the weather is cold, and forcing us all into a little hibernation, to look in your current wardrobe for what pieces you can determine as your staple pieces.

Anonymous Self-Proclaimed Shopaholic

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Tickling the Ivories

By Lisa Walters

My

parents were a mere four days away from selling the home my grandparents had built and where they had spent ten lovely years of retirement.

The moment was bittersweet, Gram had been gone a year and Grandpop had just celebrated his 90th birthday at the nursing home. My mother’s stress level as she tied up loose ends was at an all time high. Specifically, she was frantic over what to do with Grandma’s beloved piano. “It has to stay in the family,” she pleaded to my brothers and I at family dinner one evening.

In this moment, I was avoiding eye contact because I didn’t want my mother to see the musical weakness I was yearning for. Although I have always wanted to learn how to play, I know that my husband despises pianos. As a teenager he had moved his own grandmother’s piano several times, and we all know how men are huge cry babies when women want them to move something, or hang something, or paint something. I knew he would not agree to moving this into our home. Fortunately, he was not involved in this conversation.

I cut off my mom’s pleading with a resounding declaration: “I want the piano!”

“What? Seriously? Lisa, you will take it? Where will you….”

away, didn’t flinch or question my actions. “Hun, can we move this upstairs?

Gram’s piano is on its way over.” I casually state this like it was old news.

Attention granted. Insert raging husband here. I heard it all. Did I measure?

How do I know it will fit? He was not going to help them carry “that thing” in, on and on.

The piano fit, dare I say it, perfectly. And to dump more salt in the wound, the picture that previously hung above the desk did not need to be moved.

It was perfectly centered above our new piano! I flashed my disgruntled husband a huge smile and said, “Guess it’s time for me to learn how to twinkle on the ivories.” I began piano lessons the following week.

And by doing so, I’ve discovered I’m no Alicia Keys, however: Learning to read and play music has been extremely therapeutic for this overscheduled momma. In 2014, I encourage you to fight for your own version of Grandma’s Piano. Whatever it is that you’ve always wanted to do, find a way to make it happen.

Lisa is a freelance writer, elementary school teacher, and new mom. She resides in Perkasie with her husband Jason, son Jack, and two dogs Winchester and Trigger.

“We can move the desk. It will fit perfectly! I will take lessons, and play Christmas carols, and teach Jack how to play….”

Mom agreed to have the piano tuned and professionally moved to make the news less traumatic for my husband, Jason. If the piano wasn’t going to inflict any financial or physical strain on him, he might be more open to the idea, right?

The next day I received a phone call from the piano company. They were five minutes away from delivering the beast, and I still hadn’t filled my husband in. I pushed the existing desk away from the wall and towards the bottom of the stairs. My husband, sitting on the couch, less than ten feet 62

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We

highlighted participating athletes from our area way back in 2012 for the Summer Games. This time around, be on the lookout for Chris Creveling, the 27-year-old 2006 Palisades High School graduate from Kintnersville.

He’s earned one of five spots on the U.S. Olympic speedskating team. Creveling defeated U.S. star J.R. Celski by a half a blade length in the first 1,000 meter final to earn his place. Celski came back to capture the second 1,000m final, joining the team with his victory. Both men will be joined on the men’s team by Eddy Alvarez, 2010 Olympian Jordan Malone and Kyle Carr.

Sochi 2014 will be the first Winter Games to have venues in two distinct ‘clusters’, with 11 new arenas built just for the world-class event. Despite some questions on security, adding a new, somewhat unnerving edge to this year’s events, here is the full gamut of what you can expect to see.

Alpine Skiing Medal events: 10 Athletes. Dates: February 9–22

Each athlete will perform in the halfpipe before being judged on technical difficulty, style, flow, variation and execution. Ski slopestyle – Men’s and Women’s Skiers combine airs and tricks on a course featuring rails and a variety of jumps before being scored on execution, difficulty of line, landing and their use of the course.

Ice Hockey Medal events: 2 Athletes. Dates: February 8–23 Luge Medal events: 4 Athletes. Dates: February 8–13 What’s New? Luge team relay – Mixed Each country will field a men’s singles sled, a doubles sled and a women’s singles sled. All three will slide down the track, one after another, with the clock stopping only after the third sled has crossed the finish line.

Nordic Combined Medal events: 3 Athletes. Dates: February 12–20

Biathlon Medal events: 11 Athletes. Dates: February 8–22 What’s New? Biathlon Mixed Relay Mixed Teams will have two men and two women. Women will open the relay, completing the first two 6km legs. The men then complete the next two 7.5km legs.

Bobsleigh Medal events: 3 Athletes. Dates: February 16–23

Short Track Speed Skating Medal events: 8 Athletes. Dates: February 10–21 Skeleton Medal events: 2 Athletes. Dates: February 13–15 Ski Jumping Medal events: 4 Athletes. Dates: February 8–17

Cross-country Skiing Medal events: 12 Athletes. Dates: February 8–23

What’s New? Women’s Ski Jumping Women’s The women’s normal hill event will mark the first time that women will compete in ski jumping at the Winter Games.

Curling Medal events: 2 Athletes. Dates: February 10–21

Snowboarding Medal events: 10 Athletes. Dates: February 6-22

Figure Skating Medal events: 5 Athletes. Dates: February 6–22

What’s New? Snowboard Slopestyle Men’s and Women’s Athletes will be scored after descending a course consisting of rails and a variety of jumps, as they combine big airs and technical tricks into one run.

Snowboard parallel slalom – Men’s and Women’s Riders will race two at a time down the same slope on two parallel courses, outlined with gates and triangular flags.

What’s New? Figure Skating Team Event – Mixed Featuring teams made up of six skaters – one male, one female, one pair and one ice dance couple. Points will be awarded for each routine and the team with the highest number of aggregate points will win gold Freestyle Skiing Medal events: 10 Athletes Dates: February 6–21 What’s New? Ski Halfpipe – Men’s and Women’s

Speed Skating Medal events: 12 Athletes. Dates: February 8–22 Sharyl Volpe is Editor in Chief for Local Living Magazine. Listings courtesy of olympic.org.

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Local Goes Local

New Erving Foundation Set to DEFY Stereotypes

By Michael Hirata

Key West, Florida

B

asketball legend Julius (Dr. J.) Erving and his wife Dorys Erving have founded the Dorys Erving Fit Youth Foundation, aka DEFY, to fight childhood obesity. Children in many underserved communities need to DEFY peer pressure, stereotypes, and marketing influences to fight for their good health. The foundation will use community engagement and education to directly serve children, starting in the Philadelphia area.

By Diane Burns

LL: How do you plan to reach out and interact with the children?

Dorys Erving: We are going to work with as many schools and camps as possible. We are looking to work where kids are already in groups rather than individual families. We are also going to be bringing healthy food directly to the underserved in some lower income sections of the city.

LL: There are so many worthy causes to support. What made you decide to concentrate on childhood obesity in particular?

Dorys Erving: I am very health conscious and very lucky to be the While Philadelphia has already taken a leading role in confronting the obesity problem, limited resources in the school district have made progress difficult. DEFY Foundation will use a multi-faceted approach to complement existing programs and produce better outcomes. In some communities nearly 40% of children are obese, leading to skyrocketing rates of diabetes, heart disease and other weight-related ailments. The long-term adverse health effects of childhood obesity extend well into adulthood. Combating the problem early leads to both healthier children now and healthier adults in the future. The foundation will address the epidemic of childhood obesity in the Philadelphia area through education, enhanced access to nutritional foods, and encouraging physical activity.

Have

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

The island is an artistic and unique place where you can be yourself, find yourself or just rejuvenate yourself. It has a “live and let live” attitude, tropicallike climate and what seems like an unending happy hour. The island is only four miles long and two miles wide and is the southernmost tip of North America as denoted by the brightly colored buoy that marks the spot. It is only 90 miles from Cuba and is one of the most photographed attractions in America.

Key West has something of interest for everyone. Whether you just want to relax in the sun on a beautiful beach, do a little sightseeing or shop, there are many options available to you. If being on the water attracts you, take a fishing trip to catch sailfish, tuna or marlin. Not so adventurous, cruise on a dolphin-watch boat and see these wonderful creatures up close and personal as they frolic in the blue, blue water. Or perhaps a snorkeling trip is more to your liking. You’ll be fascinated by the variety of fish you will encounter swimming in and out of the only live coral reef in North America.

Sightseers may discover a long lost shipwreck or visit the haunts of some of the most prolific writers of the 20th century. Visit the home of Ernest Hemmingway or Tennessee Williams. All throughout the island you will enjoy the beautiful Victorian architecture that is part of Key West.

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

Hungry after touring? Key West is a mecca for fantastic dining experiences with cuisine from around the world. From the casual outdoor cafes to the upscale fine dining restaurants and bistros of Duval Street you will enjoy the cuisine of your choosing. The award-winning restaurants of the island combine elegance with a flair for decadent fare. So put the diet on hold for a while and enjoy some new and exciting dining experiences. After dinner, take in some of the entertainment the island has to offer.

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

At the gala Julius Erving noted that First Lady Michelle Obama has taken up childhood obesity as her main cause, and that DEFY was planning to meet and coordinate with the First Lady as soon as scheduling allows. Julius also noted that DEFY is planning some special opportunities for inner city youth to meet with professional athletes and participate in recreational activities. Julius praised his wife’s communications skills noting she speaks four languages and is currently learning a fifth.

LL: How would you describe the mission of your

For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce at: info@keywestchamber.org.

Dorys Erving: DEFY is trying to combat

LocalLivingMag.com

Mike Hirata is a contributing writer and photographer for Local Living Magazine.

Julius and Dorys Erving kicked off fundraising for DEFY with a star-studded gala at the Ritz Carlton in Philadelphia. The Ervings were joined by NBA legend Kareem Abdul Jabbar, and singers Marsha Ambrosius and Jeffrey Osborne. And in a rare moment of bipartisanship support, Congressmen Bob Brady and Frank LoBiondo both traveled from Washington DC to support the cause.

When you arrive home after your short getaway you’ll be amazed at how much more revitalized you feel.

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

mother of four healthy children. My heart goes out to those who don’t have good health and I am willing to provide to those who don’t. If I can help at least one kid get healthy that would be great.

new foundation DEFY? childhood obesity, which is an epidemic these days both nationally and in the Philadelphia area.

What we are going to do is introduce kids to healthy food, education, and exercise.

Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Dorys Erving, Julius Erving, and singer Jeffrey Osborne LocalLivingMag.com

January | February 2014

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The Extended Family

By Diane Burns

The

extended family is making a comeback in this country due to the economic and financial situation we find ourselves in today. Sometimes two and three generations are living under the same roof sharing space that was once occupied by only one family.

Relatives that immigrate into this country are more likely to live with family members than live on their own for emotional as well as financial reasons.

And finally, life expectancy for both men and women has risen and it looks like trends suggest the rise of the extended family will continue for quite some time to come.

How can we cope with the issues that surface when different generations and lifestyles are brought together under one roof? These scenarios can cause conflict and disruption and should be discussed and settled before the families are combined.

Here are a few helpful suggestions to make the transition easier: • Determine why you are doing this; do the benefits outweigh drawbacks?

• Set rules about the bathroom; everyone must be on board with the necessity for respect and sharing.

• Let parents raise their own children. You may think you know best but don’t volunteer advice unless you are asked.

• D ecide who pays which bills. Does everyone contribute to household expenses and then one person is in charge of actually paying the bills?

Are bills divided among household members instead?

• Spend quality time together as a family. Everyone has a busy schedule but it is imperative for family harmony if some time is set aside to just spend with one another.

TIPS: Remember the benefits of living in an extended family.

•W isdom and stories from elders are passed down through family activities • There is a greater support system both emotionally and financially in place.

Happy New Year– Now WHAT? C

ongratulations! You made it! Survived another holiday felony-free (hopefully). Another New Year’s come and gone and where are we? (Insert your answer here)….How did last year’s resolutions work out for you? Do you remember what they were?

Over the next few days you will be inundated with diet plans, exercise programs, new money-making ideas, etc. Basically, lots of noise. I want to discuss a way to make sense out of everything: FOCUS. My new resolution, and I challenge you too, is to master FOCUS. We as professionals, parents, and all around people are surrounded by impulses, noise, and clutter. Find that quiet place, wherever that is, and ask yourself, “What do I want to see happen differently this year?” “What happened this past year that I am proud of?” “How can I make more of THAT?”

By Blair Johnson feedback on how you can be the best mom, dad, husband, wife, friend, or whatever title this calls for and ask them to hold you accountable. Set up checkpoints. Don’t be afraid to take notes. Studies show that you will take your goals much more seriously when you write them down. Invest in some composition books; this will keep the paper clutter down and your notes and progress will be easy to track.

Focus intently on your goals and progress, set realistic goals like tackling one cluttered drawer at a time. If you de-clutter five minutes a day every day, you will be surprised at your results! Set one basket or box aside for “things without a place,” fill it up, then tackle that box once every two weeks.

Probably some of you said, “Make more money,” and, “Spend more time with the family and/or partner.” “Get out more.” “Live life.” “Lose that bad habit,” or, “Get that list together….” Good. Now we are ready to move ahead!

I encourage you to offer to help someone else and be his or her accountability partner. This kind of intense focus keeps all goals in check. The more people that are invested in shared FOCUSED goals the more you will be able to measure success. Be prepared, though -- you are human; there will be stumbling blocks and some failure, but in the words of Disney’s Meet the Robinsons film, “Keep Moving Forward!”

You now should make appointments with the folks that matter most: your significant other, your kids, your friend(s), your boss/or your employees… and then, get ready: You tell them that you have reflected on last year and you want to make this year the best one yet and you want their help.

Lastly, I leave you with this: send me your progress and challenges. I would love next year’s Male Bag to include some wonderful success stories! I answer all my correspondence. Happy New Year! ‘Til next Male Bag, KEEP MOVING FORWARD!

With a boss, clearly define what you want and where you want to be in the next year and discuss a plan to get you there and how he or she can hold you accountable for that journey. You will feel great, and that conversation carries over to your family and friends.With your family and friends you tell them how much they mean to you and how you value them. Ask for some honest

Originally from New Orleans, Blair Johnson, consultant, writer, creator, and compulsive over-thinker, currently lives in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, with his daughter and dog.

• Valuable life skills are learned through cooperation and collaboration.

• Discuss circumstances as a family. Everyone must be on the same page as to whether this is a temporary or a permanent arrangement.

• Define responsibilities. For example, who is responsible for a family member who might need special care?

• Boundaries: Address issues of privacy, advice giving, and everyone’s physical and sound boundaries. Make sure everyone has a little place they can call his or her own.

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Finally, never let anger an d resentment cause you to forget how important these people are to you. You chose to help one another through a difficult time; don’t allow a few unsettling or frustrating moments harm the loving relationship you have with your family.

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

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Your Turn: Gift Yourself with H.E.A.L.T.H.

By Joanna K. Chodorowska, BA, NC, TPTH

So

many times, we get to the start of a new year and wonder, “Whatever happened to that getting healthy idea I had last year?” and, “Why didn’t I do anything about it?” Oh yeah, the soccer games, the ballet practices, the shopping and cooking and shuttling back and forth between everything all of the time. The list goes on, and on and on. Well, here is a short list of reasons that can help you choose and do healthy this year for real.

H: Heal yourself so you can take care of others.

You deserve to take care of you. And if you don’t believe that, then consider this: If you do not take care of yourself, love yourself, be at your best healthy self, who, then, will take care of your children or your partner or other family members? It won’t be you if you are the one who is not well.

Taking care of you is not a sign of selfishness. It is a sign that you love yourself enough to be your very best. You are not saying “no” to someone else, you are saying “YES” to you. And when you are at your best, then you can be helpful to others. Like the airplane safety rules: Apply the oxygen mask to you, then assist others.

E: Eat more greens.

Green vegetables are the most overlooked vegetables that contribute the most to one’s health. Yes, there is kale, which is a wonder green, but there are plenty of others also offering phytonutrients to fight free radicals we create from stress. Greens contain calcium and magnesium to help muscles relax (including the heart!). Greens also have very few calories while providing nutrients, so you are less hungry over the course of the day.

A: Ask friends and family for help and support.

You may feel like a superhuman sometimes, but you cannot really do it all on your own. We need to learn how to delegate some of the responsibilities at home (or work) so we can get our needs met. Asking is not a sign of weakness. It takes a team to create, even if you are the leader of that team.

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L: Learn to laugh–a lot and often.

I used to read my mother’s copy of Reader’s Digest as a child. There was one section called Laughter is the Best Medicine. Learn to bring laughter back into your every day routine, even if it means to laugh at yourself!

T: Thank others for the good they do.

So often we get criticized for what we did wrong. And for some, it seems that they do everything wrong! But that is not this year. Always look for the positive in a situation. Thank yourself for being patient. Thank a co-worker for helping you with a task. Thank everyone even for a small thing like opening a door for you. Gratitude always brings rewards when you least expect them!

H: Happiness comes from inside out.

Happiness is something you feel on the inside. You cannot learn it from a book. You can only learn how to feel it more often. Find activities you really enjoy – exercise, tennis, golf, playing cards, playing an instrument, meditation, yoga, sitting in nature. Find the time daily to create that time so you can have your happiness haven. Once you find happiness, then others will join you in creating their own happiness. It is contagious!

This new year, try a new way of finding your health. It is not the same journey for everyone, but if you find reasons that resonate with you, you will be more willing to make them your own.

To your health!

Joanna K Chodorowska, BA, NC, TPTH is a sports nutrition coach helping athletes improve their performance using real food options that fit into their busy lives, helping to counteract every day stressors. She can be reached at www.n-im.net.

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