Local Living April 2018

In Sp(i)ring UNITED CAPITAL FINANCIAL ADVISERS, LLC / Rosemary Caligiuri St. Luke's University Health Network Freshening Up Your Garden Virginia Wine Country

Volume 8, Issue 2 $4.99 US

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Your Home. Your Community. Your Life.

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16 38 Financial Life Management 46 St. Luke's University Health Network 16 Freshening Up Your Garden 64 Virginia Wine Country

64 home & style

health & wellness

10 The Power of Flower 12 Landscape Architecture

35 Your Intuitive Appetite 50 Women & Heart Disease

what’s cooking

style & fashion

22 24 29 33

57 Spring Wardrobe Woes 58 Life is Not a Dress Rehearsal 59 Why Shop Thrift?

Fork 1-1 Smart Ways to Eat Better Foodie Town: Media Ristorante San Marco

legal & finance 21 Selecting the Right Real Estate Agent 43 Talk About Finance Before Tying the Knot ( Again)

4 4 Local Volume 8 | 1Issue 2 LocalLiving Living Volume 8 | Issue

travel 49 Elderhostel- A Senior Learning Experience

pets 62 Food Recalls

style. luxe. life.

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Local Living June 2014

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6 Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2

publisher’s page

Ahhh, Spring!!

I

t’s the time for rebirth, spring cleaning, garden plan-ning, and best of all… spending more time outside. It’s time to revel in a collective sigh of relief for mak-ing it through another brutal winter. Spring is here! Who doesn’t love springtime? What a great way to end the cold, gray days of winter! (As you can probably tell, I am not a big fan of winter!) But now that spring is here all is well in the world again. There’s no better time than the present to get your body back into shape for swimsuit season. For those of you who actually contemplate wearing a bathing suit this summer there are plenty of body sculpting magazines with numerous examples of airbrushed or Photoshop images, to make you crazy at the supermarket checkout lines! Sweating away in the gym is fine, but I believe there are certain benefit’s to exercising outside. I am of the opinion that a combination of fresh air, sunshine, and the wonders of nature can stimulate you more than an elliptical machine and a television screen at the gym. So, for those of us who are a little older, a litter slower, and less likely to hit the gym over the winter, get out and enjoy some daily exercise outdoors. Start with walking, biking, or even gardening…

And while spring slowly melts away our memories of a particularly cold and snowy winter, I hope the stories and recipes in this issue will brighten your day. May you enjoy all the fresh air this season has to offer!

Happy Spring!

Karen A. Kovacs, Publisher

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 7

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10 Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2

HOME & GARDEN

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 11

profile How to Leverage Landscape Architecture and Design Tactics When Building a Poolscape

B

uilding a swimming pool and surrounding landscape is a large and impactful investment for homeowners.

The process can be conceptualized as designing a poolscape: an environment that reflects the aesthetic, lifestyle, and logistical needs of your home’s outdoor space.

Working with a landscape architect and design firm is an effective strategy when designing a poolscape.

Developing a Creative Vision It is important to work with a landscape design firm that will help you develop a creative vision, provide you with a breadth of smart choices, educate you and ultimately facilitate an exceptional experience. A striking landscape has the ability to capture a mood and evoke emotions. Historically, landscape architects have used pools as central design ele-

1212 Local Volume 8 | 2Issue 2 Local Living Living Volume 5 | Issue

ments in prominent gardens. Working with a landscape design firm to feature a pool in the scenery of your home has the potential to expand your living space beyond the walls of your house into a vibrant outdoor ecosystem.

What does your ideal poolscape look like? Foliage, lighting, earthenware, and fountains are elements that animate a pool’s design. Landscape architects help homeowners define a cohesive vision and manage the complex elements of the pool-building process such as budget, seasonal variations, existing landscape components and long-term site planning. An optimal poolscape seamlessly integrates each of the many components that go into building and maintaining a pool, garden, and peripherals.

Executing a Creative Vision Wallace Landscape Associates, a design build firm with over twenty years of experience building poolscapes, pairs our client’s creative vision with practicality in order to execute sophisticated poolscaping projects. At Wallace, landscape designers collaborate with construction professionals and pool installation companies while directing the creative development of a poolscape. In addition, Wallace fosters an environment of creative cohesion. We work closely with our clients and encourage them to be active participants in the fabrication of their poolscape.

As design professionals we provide a comprehensive understanding of the process such as expenses, timeline, and when decisions need to be made. In addition, we work with you to understand the possibilities and constraints of your property.

As landscape architects we implement thoughtful space planning strategies that address the intricate and nuanced needs of your home’s outdoor environment. From our initial meet-

ing and throughout the design development phases, we incorporate your specific requests to provide a customizable experience.

As construction professionals we leverage partnerships with respected local pool builders and expert craftsmen to produce a superlative end product. The construction process is transparent: a factor that allows our clients to have an honest timeframe for project completion.

At Wallace, success is achieved by pairing imagination and creativity with innovation and expertise. Our designers absorb a client’s dreamscape —breathe life into the idea—and cultivate a creative vision that reflects the client’s personal taste and exceeds their original expectations. Our custom poolscapes incorporate vanishing edge and infinity pool designs as well as “smart pool” technology. Notably, Wallace helps clients make sound decisions that align with budgets, code requirements, and utilities standards. At the completion of each project Wallace clients are left with a lasting feeling of pleasure and pride.

VolumeVolume 8 | Issue 2 2 Local Living 1313 5 | Issue Local Living

Imagine the...

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PROFILE

Graboyes Window and Door Company: The Perfect Fit

By Kari Dimmick

F

or over 60 years, Graboyes Window and Door Company has been providing Philadelphia and suburban counties the service of state of the art window and door replacement and installation.

Their incomparable work even earned them the badge of an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. People like to say it’s impossible to please everyone. Well, if you were talking about Graboyes, you’d be wrong. Their A+ rating means absolute customer satisfaction. The Graboyes’ boys keep themselves busy by beautifying homes while adding value and saving money through their proficient yet prompt installation of energy efficient windows and doors.

Today, more than ever, the value of a dollar is understood by few and lost by many. If you’re one of those people that have allowed your old, dingy windows and doors to get the best of your wallet and continuously see those energy bills rising, you need to do something about it! Now’s the best time to call. Spring provides the perfect weather for installation and allows you to skip over that tedious part of the spring-cleaning process: cleaning your old windows. However, your new windows will tilt allowing for much easier cleaning when needed. New windows and doors will provide protection against damaging sunrays fading your carpets and furniture. If these reasons weren’t enough to call Graboyes, tax credits have been reinstated for 2013 of up to $500!

New to the Graboyes’ product line for residential properties is their ISS Residential window. ISS is an acronym for Insulated, Safe and Secure. Previously, they have only been available for installation in commercial properties in which owners want top-notch security while reducing energy costs.

The ISS is insulated for the highest quality and allows the

filtering of radiation from the sun, reducing solar heat gain, but still allows the heat in during the winter, granting the most comfort for you and your family. In addition to its insulation, the ISS offers a kind of peace-of-mind that you won’t find anywhere else. Much like the windshield of your car, if smashed, the ISS won’t allow for the entry of any intruder. The ISS model window even has heavy-duty locks on its screens so you can always rest assured that with the help of the ISS and Graboyes’ windows and doors, nobody will be entering your home uninvited. That’s security we can all value.

“Just like windows, doors are an important part of your home or office for obvious reasons. However they are only as good as the installation,” says Richard Graboyes (owner).

Windows and doors are the signature part of any building.

Graboyes’ windows and doors come in a wide assortment of colors and varieties to accommodate the needs of any customer. A lot of people have been choosing pre-stained fiberglass doors offering them an entry to their home or office that requires less maintenance than that of outdated wood.

Graboyes installs doors to any home or office with the guarantee that it will fit seamlessly with the existing decor and structure. Their extensive selection of windows and doors are designed to meet any need or budget. What’s best is their products are always American-made making them true industry patriots. Call (610) 279-3905 for a free in-home estimate and to find out how you can benefit from an additional savings of up to $1,500.

Make sure to like Graboyes Window & Door on Facebook to download coupons. Also, pay them a visit at www. graboyeswindows.com.

Volume May 8 | Issue 2 Local Living 7515 | June 2013 Local Living

Freshening Up Your Garden

By Debra Parsons

16 Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2

HOME & GARDEN

If you’ve had the same landscape for years, maybe it’s time to inject some vitality into the outdoor areas where you relax and entertain.

Consider one — or a few — to add some pizazz to your landscape.

Landscape Trend #1: Edible Gardens Separating flowers from vegetables in your garden is so yesterday. The latest trend is blended gardens that incorporate edibles and ornamentals together. These doubleduty gardens offer a bountiful harvest of fruit, vegetables and herbs while providing intriguing, energized beds.

Tuck tomato plants in with your roses. Plant a drift of “Bright Lights” chard — as pretty as any blooming perennial.

Mix asparagus or some raspberry bushes into your cutting garden. And chili peppers… they’re hotter than ever. Before they end up in your salsa recipe, use them as pretty little ornaments to spice up your garden.

Landscape Trend #2: Birds, Butterflies And Bees — Oh My! More and more gardeners are installing plants that attract butterflies, birds, and since news has spread of its dwindling population, bees are another sought after attraction.

Plant wild basil to invite butterflies — it’s one of their favorite nectar plants. Violets are many butterflies’ top choice for a host plant — plants they lay eggs on that will feed the caterpillars when they hatch.

Yarrow and hyssop will attract native bees.

Don’t forget water. Try a birdbath or a mini pond in a basin. Birds prefer shallow water, so keep the depth to three inches or less.

Landscape Trend #3: The Soothing Sound Of Water From fountains to water walls to serene ponds, water features are extremely popular.

The sound of water is soothing after a hectic day at work. It masks distracting sounds, like traffic in front of your house, or the neighbor kids’ water balloon battles. It attracts birds and butterflies to sip and splash in the water.

Landscape Trend #4: Outdoor Rooms and Kitchens Gone are the days of rickety lawn chairs on a flat

concrete patio. Your outdoor space can be as comfy and welcoming as your indoor rooms.

New outdoor fabrics, made from acrylic fibers for faderesistant, waterproof wear, are available in more patterns than ever, rivaling indoor fabric choices for trend-setting beauty. Use them on comfortable outdoor furniture that mimics living room luxury.

Outdoor kitchens now offer all the handy features of indoor kitchens. And more! Sprawling stone counters as far as the eye can see, fancy mosquito-control misters, outdoor air-cooling systems and shiny appliances that make your indoor kitchen look like Barbie’s.

Add a cozy fireplace, and your outdoor living space will be the most popular space at your house.

Landscape Trend #5: Planting For Privacy The outside world keeps getting busier and more hectic. All the more reason to create a private outdoor oasis at home! That means planting for privacy.

This can be as simple as a collection of container plants on the deck or a fence covered in ivy.

Japanese holly or boxwood creates a nice solid hedge.

Or create a natural screen with a mix of trees, shrubs and perennials.

Landscape Trend #6: The Well Lit Garden When you have a beautiful landscape, it’s tough to leave it once darkness falls. And why should you?

Customized outdoor lighting can highlight your garden, pool, walkways, outdoor basketball court, entry way and more. The right lighting not only keeps you safe from tripping on your garden path, it adds a warm, welcoming ambiance and a touch of class. Imagine an evening stroll through your garden, led by a luminous glow. Some fixtures cast light on the path while others nestle in the garden bed, highlighting your most striking plants. With the right lighting, the play of light and shadow can give your favorite plant beauties an entirely new look.

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 17

Land-Tech Enterprises: Your Search Is Over

by Pattie Krudowski

Y

ou could say that Mark Stein was born with a green thumb. His Father had a land clearing business in Bucks County when Mark was growing up and it didn’t take Mark long to realize he would rather cultivate land rather than clear it. His passion for horticulture was only surpassed by his wife’s, Jackie Lacrosss, so it made complete sense for them to start Land-Tech in 1989. Back then they focused primarily on erosion control and both landscaping and hardscaping. In 1993 Land-Tech incorporated and became LandTech Enterprises. The business grew at an impressive pace as Mark continued to develop the expert services and procure the high quality products to satisfy clients from the smallest residential garden to the largest, sophisticated commercial projects for national builders. Today they service PA, NJ and DE. Although Land-Tech Enterprises has grown immensely over the past 23 years, clients will experience a personal, down to earth approach, starting from the one-on-one feeling they receive upon their first phone call to the main office. “We believe in being proactive, not reactive, and the fact that 95% of our customers become repeat customers speaks to that,” says hands-on owner Mark who personally tracks all client calls.

He goes on to add, “We are in this for the long haul.” Projects

18 Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2 2 Local Living March | April 2012

local focus: outdoor living

local focus: outdoor living

are designed include to a maintence plan to insure of years of aretodesigned include a maintence plan years to insure preserved enjoyment.

Many clients come to Land-Tech Enpreserved enjoyment.

Many clients come to Land-Tech Enterprises with a dream and they work these with clients to deterprises with a dream and with they work these clients to develop a planvelop that amay execute in fruition order in order plantake thatyears may to take years to fruition execute to to meet thetoclients’ yearly cost yearly allowances.

Other clients’ masmeet the clients’ cost allowances.

Other clients’ master plans include their beingtheir hands-on or a more or a more ter plans include being themselves, hands-on themselves, do it yourself order to in assist in to costs exemplifying do approach it yourselfinapproach order assist in costs exemplifying Land-TechLand-Tech EnterprisesEnterprises “no job to small” attitude. othersStill others “no job to small”Still attitude. want their want grandtheir expectations to be exceeded in a short grand expectations to be exceeded time in a short time frame to celebrate an occasion as thesuch backasyard frame to celebrate ansuch occasion the wedding back yard wedding their daughter dreamed or perhaps a graduation or theiralways daughter alwaysofdreamed of or perhaps a graduation or birthday celebration. birthday celebration.

What amazes is Land-Tech Enterprises’ ability to ability to Whatmost amazes most is Land-Tech Enterprises’ meet both meet residential and commercial needs.

One of theOne big-of the bigboth residential and commercial needs. gest misconceptions of the company is that they only do bigonly do big gest misconceptions of the company is that they jobs. Dropjobs. by the garden center in Warrington and let an Drop by the garden center in Warrington asand let an assistant helpsistant you pick fromplants the nursery. you Do you help out youplants pick out from theDo nursery. need just one 30-40 foot30-40 tree planted to planted shade the need just one foot tree to sunny shade side the sunny side of your patio?

Land-Tech not only provides quality plants and plants and of your patio? Land-Tech not only provides quality trees, but also the crane thatdriver will provide trees, but also and the on-staff crane anddriver on-staff that will provide the service.the Doservice. you need a simple pergola erected or erected a luxu- or a luxuDo you need a simple pergola rious pool rious cabana complete all thewith amenities home? of home? pool cabana with complete all the of amenities Let Land-Tech Enterprises develop your dream design anddesign and Let Land-Tech Enterprises develop your dream introduce you to an you in-house plumber, plumber, introduce to an certified in-housecontractor, certified contractor, electrician electrician or stone mason.

They don’tThey use sub-contractors. or stone mason. don’t use sub-contractors.

All certifications, licensing, treasury approved, qualiAll certifications, licensing, treasury DPMC approved, DPMC qualifications and all state areentities kept updated in place. fications andentities all state are keptand updated and in place.

HomeworkHomework is done before groundbreaking is even discussed is done before groundbreaking is even discussed as Land-Tech EnterprisesEnterprises works closely with township as Land-Tech works closely with offitownship officials to insure building adheredaretoadhered involv- to involvcials local to insure localpermits buildingarepermits ing every detail fromdetail setbacks impervious guidelines.guidelines.

It’s ing every fromtosetbacks to impervious It’s a team effort.

Noteffort. just one of one eyesset looking at looking any given a team Notsetjust of eyes at any given project. Doproject. you have need aand retaining Dosalt youexposure have saltand exposure need awall retaining wall at your shore houseshore property? do itThey all. Indoorder at your house They property? it all.forIncliorder for clients to be serviced byserviced quality maintenance and snow removal ents to be by quality maintenance and snow removal crews fromcrews their from own their backyard, EnterprisesEnterprises has own Land-Tech backyard, Land-Tech has opened satellite offices in strategic accommodate opened satellite offices inlocations strategictolocations to accommodate PA, NJ andPA, DE. trucks and trucks uniformed personnel are NJLabeled and DE. Labeled and uniformed personnel are just severaljust of the guidelines that are mandatory. several of the guidelines that are mandatory.

In 2011, the Pennsylvania LandscapeLandscape and Nursery In 2011, the Pennsylvania andAsNursery Association presented Land-Tech Enterprises with the Estate sociation presented Land-Tech Enterprises with the Estate Gardens and Designand Build Award.

This well-deserved award Gardens Design Build Award.

This well-deserved award further fueled their passion for their Custom Horticultural further fueled their passion for their Custom Horticultural Program which allows a homeowner to work with a design Program which allows a homeowner to work with a design expert to procure all that is needed to create and continue expert to procure all that is needed to create andtocontinue to develop your own, personal Garden. develop your own,Estate personal Estate Garden.

To learn more about Land-Tech EnterprisesEnterprises and turn your To learn more about Land-Tech and turn your dreams into reality, go to www.landtechenterprises.com or dreams into reality, go to www.landtechenterprises.com or contact Bruno Morganheira, Residential Manager & Landcontact Bruno Morganheira, Residential Manager & Landscape Design (215) 491-1470 Ext. 139, Ext. mobile scapeat Design at (215) 491-1470 139,(215) mobile (215) 647-2684, 647-2684, or email bmorganheira@landtechenterprises.com. or email bmorganheira@landtechenterprises.com.

Land-TechLand-Tech EnterprisesEnterprises Main Branch andBranch Garden Center is Center is Main and Garden located at 3084-B Bristol Road, Warrington PA 18976. located at 3084-B Bristol Road, Warrington PA 18976.

Pattie Krukowski is a freelance living in Doylestown, Pattie Krukowski is awriter freelance writer living in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania.

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 19

March | AprilMarch 2012 | Local Living Local 3 Living April 2012

3

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Local Living Volume 5 | Issue 2

Selecting the Right Real Estate Agent

By Lauren Cronmiller

T

his article is not about boasting about my credentials, although I will throw in a few, but rather about selecting the realtor that is right for you. I once read a local news article claiming that buyers should interview agents and ask for 4% listing commission, because agents will take it. Really, 4%? While few may agree to that, and I mean very few, let me ask you this, would you take a price cut at your job? Would you put the same amount of time and effort into something yielding you less money? So while you may shop around for the cheapest realtor, will you sell your house quickly and for the highest price possible?

Maybe you are considering the “for sale by owner” (FSBO) route. This allows you to only pay for only one realtor because you, the owner, will be acting on your own behalf. Let me throw a few statistics from a 2014 article written by the National Association of Realtors. Over 40% of FSBO’s knew the buyer. For those that did not have a buyer lined up, only half advertised their home. Those that decided to list their home with an agent yielded a 13% higher sale price than that of a FSBO. Did you know Colby Sambratto, creator of forsalebuyowner.com, used a realtor and paid 6% commission to sell his own home? He didn’t even use his own product!

If you are in the market for a new realtor, here are tips when selecting an agent to buy and/or sell your home.

Ask friends and family for a referral.

Ask what they liked and didn’t like about the realtors they used. Their experiences could give you some insight and direction.

Don’t go with the realtor with the highest list price.

Look at the comps. See if the price they are offering

makes sense. They could be buying the listing meaning once you sign with them, they will offer the home at a very high price and ask for price reductions once the home does not sell.

Is the agent a part time or full time realtor?

Do not feel obligated to pick a family member, friend, or colleague who is a realtor. Selling your home is a business transaction. Try not to let emotional relationships get in the way of your bottom line and what is best for you.

When you talk to an agent. List your expectations.

When do you expect feedback? When do you expect to sell/move into your new home? How often do you want to look at houses? If anything changes, be sure to tell them. I lost a buyer because they told me they were browsing the market. I would reach out to them once every week or two.

They went with a realtor who was more aggressive because they decided it was time to actively look at houses. I do wear a ton of hats but mind reading is not one of them.

Communication is key throughout this entire process.

Save yourself the time, money, and energy and hire a realtor. Once you find a fantastic agent, you will never have to go through the interview process again!

Lauren Cronmiller is a real estate agent for the Cronmiller Team at Keller Williams Real Estate in Doylestown. She has been a realtor since 2006 receiving Philadelphia’s 5 Star Real Estate Agent award for the past 4 years. Lauren can be reached at her office 215-340-5700, always on her cell phone 215-870-2398, or through email lmcronmiller@gmail.com.

Volume 8 | Issue 2 Local Living 21 Volume 5 | Issue 2 Local Living

21

The

Fork-1-1

by Kimberly Ca mbra

“Do cool things that don’t suck.”

This is the philosophy that defines Steven Grasse, period.

2246Local Volume | Issue 2 LocalLiving Living July | August82012

W

hen asked he will tell you just that and when his own children seek fatherly advice. Same credo. Grasse is no Ward Cleaver but he is obscenely nostalgic in his own style of creative forces. Up until 2008 he captained the S.S. Gyro Worldwide, an edgy advertising agency which created campaigns for both local and global companies, from Wawa to Puma. Gone are those days of Budweiser and Camel ads that appealed to the alternative youth culture and made Gyro a brand builder and marketing leader. Replacing the former Gyro cocoon is Quaker City Mercantile (QMC), a distinctive blend of 19th century mercantilism and 21st century brand artistry.

Given its description, there is no problem believing QMC is responsible for the creation and production of an impressive boutique distilled spirits portfolio which now properly define Grasse’s genius. He’s no longer building brands from the outside in…he actually creates them from the inside out.

One might say Grasse’s advertising career drove him to drink, however he’s not perched at a bar stool all day but lodged firmly in a full-fledged spiritual advisor role, responsible for developing the explosive brand Sailor Jerry Rum. In 1999, QCM took possession of an estate belonging to Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins, a tattoo artist best known for his sailor tattoos and pin-up girls. Nothing about this acquisition was going to be warehoused; instead, it was launched into the sky as would be a fireworks grand finale on the 4th of July. The result, the Sailor Jerry lifestyle and storefront complete with clothing, merchandise and an oldfashioned “roll out the barrel” music program for this Caribbean spiced rum. Steven knew the best way to get this product to market was to “let it flow” by giving garage bands cases of product to take with them to their offbeat venues and share with their fans. Toss in a van full of social media efforts and the rest is Sailor Jerry’s second legacy.

Eventually the Sailor Jerry brand was sold to William Grant & Sons, an award-winning independent family distiller, for a BIG bag of doubloons. Contractually, QCM agreed to maintain this volatile rum which is one of the fastest growing rums in the world: over 650,000 cases were sold in 2010 and it continues to set records in its category.

(For your information, a 750 ml bottle costs about $16.)

The next brand to make a splash in the juniper pool is Hendricks Gin, in its dark brown apothecary style bottle and handsome packaging. This sensual gin is a blend of juniper, botanicals, rose petals and cucumber making this spirit rather sexy to say the least and self described as “A most peculiar gin”. It is truly peculiar and well received by spirit critics everywhere. Unique to the Scottish production of Hendricks is the Carter-Head Still, producing small pot batches, and there are only a few of these operating stills in the world. Hendricks Gin is also a leader brand for Wm Grant & Sons and retails for about $30 a bottle.

Root, Snap, Rhuby and Sage are siblings in a brilliant collection of small batch certified organic spirits from the ge-

nius of Grasse’s Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction storefront. This elaborate Old City location is considered QCM flagship store and namesake for Walter Benjamin’s 1936 essay. Grasse embraces Benjamin’s philosophy in his products created with quality, history and craftsmanship.

Root, the first to launch into the market, was inspired

by Native Americans and their Root Tea recipe which goes back to early American settlers in the 1700s. As the recipe evolved over the centuries, the potency also increased, especially in Pennsylvania. The flavor profile for Root include: anise, birch bark, cloves, cardamom, and spearmint. These make for countless imaginative beverages as a result. Poured over vanilla ice cream with a splash of club soda in a stem glass, and you’ll have to choose a straw or a spoon!

Snap is the second born to Art in the Age also influenced by our German American neighbors in PA Dutch country. Snap is what you would expect if you could drink a “Lebkuchen” which is German for ginger snap. This organic liqueur mimics the flavor of this beloved cookie such as molasses, brown sugar, cinnamon and, of course, ginger.

Rhuby, short for rhubarb, is also a Pennsylvania staple during the height of its growing season and made into everything from pies to preserves. Why not a liqueur? This organic small batch spirit is most certainly in a class of its own in any wine and spirit shop. The flavor profile is truly exceptional when you consider the list of ingredients: rhubarb, beets, carrots, lemon, petit grain, cardamom, pink peppercorn, coriander, vanilla and pure sugar cane. The stores and bar scene are drowning in a sea of flavored vodkas and Rhuby for certain is an exquisite gem of her three other muses Art in the Age siblings.

Lastly, there’s the newest Art in the Age, baby Sage. Just as you would expect from her name, she’s a lovely and herbaceous infused spirit with thyme, rosemary, lavender, fennel and sage. This product is literally a liquid spice elixir worthy to compliment any vodka or gin concoction instantly. Imagine a beef stock-laden sage infused Bloody Mary or Mojito with the vim and vigor gently kissing the bruised mint leaves in a tall glass.

The Art in the Age collection of certified organic boutique spirits are like NO other in the world. Inspired with integrity from yesteryear for today’s contemporary palates, they contain dream ingredients for bar chefs and are extremely worthy in the kitchen for cooking with too. It should be noted that artwork that adorns each of these handcrafted spirits is the work of Reverend Michael Alan, father so-tospeak to these botanicals beauties. Alan is known for his Pennsylvania Dutch style pen & ink artistry. Each brand comes with an illustrated story book with the history of the product brought to life by Alan’s artwork. The Art in the Age boutique spirits are organically produced in California and retail for about $30 a bottle.

And what would a family of products be without the little one… Spodee. Yep. Good ol’ White Mule Farms Spodee, a

Volume Issue2012 2 Local Living 4723 July8| |August Local Living

Smart Ways to Eat Better

By Peggy Aston

How many times do you start out the day, full of resolve to eat well?

Then by the time you get to dinner, you think, “maybe tomorrow.”

Here are some delicious recipes to help you get started without all of the fuss and muss.

Whole-Wheat Linguine with Shrimp, Asparagus and Tomato

This taste of spring combines shrimp and chopped asparagus sautéed with shallots, garlic, white wine and ripe tomatoes, tossed with whole-wheat linguine and grated fresh parmesan. Keep this springtime staple gluten-free by swapping in soba noodles or brown rice pasta.

What You’ll Need 8 oz. whole-wheat linguine (or other long, skinny pasta) 12-15 large size peeled shrimp 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 shallot, minced 1 lb. asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided 1/2 cup dry white wine 1 cup vegetable stock 1 lemon, zested and juiced 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated, plus more for garnish 1 package of grape tomatoes cut in half What to Do Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook until al dente approximately 8-10 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a large sautée pan over medium heat.

Add shallots and let them cook (without browning) until fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Stir in shrimp, asparagus and garlic, and season with salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Cook until asparagus is tender, about 5 minutes.

Pour in the wine and continue cooking until it’s almost fully reduced.

Stir in the vegetable stock, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Bring to a boil and cook until the liquid is reduced by half, about 5 minutes.

Add the linguine, tomatoes and parmesan cheese, and remaining black pepper, and toss well.

Garnish with additional lemon zest and shaved parmesan and serve immediately.

2424Local Volume 8 | Issue 2 LocalLiving Living Volume 5 | Issue 2

Black Bean and Quinoa Burgers

This filling veggie burger is quick to prepare and won’t leave you reaching for an unhealthy dessert. Packed with quinoa, black beans, nutritional yeast, and flavorful spices, it’s a winning burger for both taste and nutrition. Quinoa is a complete protein and both it and black beans are high in fiber, making this meal great for digestion and heart health too.

What You’ll Need 1 can (15.5 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained 1/2 cup cooked quinoa 1/2 tsp cumin 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1/2 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp sea salt 1 tbsp nutritional yeast 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for cooking

What To Do Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients using hands or a fork to mash beans and thoroughly mix. (This should form a paste-like mixture that is easy to shape into patties.)

Divide mixture into four equal balls, and form each into a patty between 1/4 - and 1/2-inch thick.

In a medium oven-safe saucepan over high eat, cook patties in 1/2 tablespoon olive oil for 1 minute on each side, or until lightly browned.

Transfer the saucepan to the oven and bake for 15 minutes.

Serve patties on whole-grain buns or over fresh greens with desired toppings.

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 25

Baked Salmon With Avocado-Dill Yogurt

Salmon is a great staple to add to your weeknight dinner rotation, and for good reason—it’s low in calories and fat, high in protein, and off the charts with omega-3s. If a grill’s not available, baking is a great alternative. Baking the salmon at a high temperature helps to seal in the fish’s natural juices while keeping it tender.

What You’ll Need 1 medium avocado, diced (skin and pit removed) 1/2 cup Greek yogurt 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped 1 clove garlic 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1-3 tablespoons water Salt Fresh ground pepper 4 6-oz salmon fillets 1 tablespoon olive oil What To Do Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

While the oven heats up, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon water, salt, and pepper. Puree the mixture until smooth and creamy. If necessary, add more water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. Set aside.

Place fish, skin side down, on a foil-lined baking sheet. Season with fillets with salt and pepper and brush with olive oil (about 1 tablespoon total).

Bake fish (without flipping) until just cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes, (depending on thickness).

(Note: Thicker, center-cut fillets will take longer, while thinner fillets cut from the tail section will cook faster.)

Once cooked, remove from oven and plate each fillet. Top with 1-2 tablespoons of the avocado-dill yogurt, and enjoy!

26 Volume 8 | 2Issue 2 26 Local LocalLiving Living Volume 5 | Issue

Plum Sorbet

You don’t need to give up ice cream if you’re trying to lead a healthy lifestyle. Try this surprising plum-flavored sorbet, which has only 0.2 grams of saturated fat per serving.

What You’ll Need 6 large ripe plums, peeled and finely chopped (about 5 cups) 1/3 cup “measures-like-sugar” calorie-free sweetener 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin 1/4 cup cold water 1 (8-ounce) carton vanilla fat-free yogurt sweetened with aspartame Plum wedge (optional) What To Do Combine plums, sweetener, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor; process until smooth.

Transfer mixture to a medium bowl.

Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small saucepan; let stand 1 minute. Cook over low heat, stirring until gelatin dissolves, about 4 minutes. Add to plum mixture, stirring well. Add yogurt, stirring until smooth.

Pour mixture into an 8-inch square pan; freeze until almost firm.

Transfer mixture to a large bowl; beat with a mixer at high speed until fluffy. Spoon mixture back into pan; freeze until firm.

Scoop into 5 individual serving dishes to serve. Garnish each serving with a plum wedge, if desired.

VolumeVolume 8 | Issue 2 2 Local Living 2727 5 | Issue Local Living

Crystal Rose Catering & Special Events Solution

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Bert Proulx Executive Chef/Event Planner

A Full Service Event Provider 32

215-651-0559 www.crystalrosecatering.com

Local Living July | August 2013

Visit us on Facebook

what’s cooking Story and Photos by Jason Bleecher

I

f you’re the kind of person who wants to feel good about where you dine and shop then Media is the place for you.

Located just off the Blue Route along Baltimore Pike, this borough is America’s first Free Trade town which is pretty amazing when you consider the standards they must keep here to maintain a responsible business environment. A fair trade town, just like any singular, fair trade product, is a place committed to fighting poverty and civil unrest by making sure a fair amount of the profit goes back to the farmers and manufacturers that actually produce them. In 2006 Media business owners, town officials, and residents pulled together to apply for this designation which is certified by the Fair Trade Foundation, an independent advisory organization based in Britain. Certification requires that the community include a specific percentage of businesses committed to fair trade as well as a program to educate, continue and grow the fair trade community at large. Since Media earned its certification thirty-one other American cities have followed in their footsteps, including Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the nation’s first Fair Trade city.

While producers all over the world benefit from Media’s Fair Trade Certification, the borough itself has enjoyed a groundswell of civic pride and enterprise which continues to this day.

The downtown district is gleaming with life where you can enjoy great food from all over the world. Once, like so many other towns, the community was suffering from the painful effects of urban sprawl. Now, you can come to Media at any time to enjoy the dozens of local restaurants all within walking distance of one another. I would recommend visiting on a Wednesday night when you can enjoy “Dining Under The Stars.” On this night only State Street is closed to traffic so restaurants can serve to tables in the open air while visitors enjoy a unique and romantic dining experience.

Need caption here to coordinate with photo in background.

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 29

Seven Seven Stones Stones Cafe Cafe

Lotus Lotus Farm Farm toto Table Table

Front Front Street Street Fountain Fountain

her her cafe cafe with with“an “an espresso espresso machine machine and and dessert.” dessert.”Natalie Natalie sells sells coffee coffee sourced sourced only only from from La La Colombe, Colombe,aa Philly-based Philly-based roaster roaster who who sells sells fairly fairly traded traded coffee coffee primarily primarily from from South South Africa.

Africa.

LOTUS LOTUSFARM FARMTO TOTABLE TABLE

112 112West WestState StateStreet Street Ryan RyanSulikowski, Sulikowski,Executive ExecutiveChef Chef

in Media SPASSO SPASSO

11West WestState StateStreet Street Roberto RobertoMedina, Medina,Executive ExecutiveChef Chef When When II asked asked owner owner Claudio Claudio Sandolo Sandolo why why he he decided decided to to replicate replicatehis hispopular popularItalian ItalianGrille Grillein inMedia Mediahe heimmediately immediately replied, replied, “I “I fell fell in in love love with with the the building.” building.” With With high high winwindows dows and and archways archways the the former former post post offi office ce and and city city hall hall isis spacious spacious and and open open to to all all areas areas from from the the dining dining room room to to the the bar. bar.There’s There’soutside outsideseating seatingon onthe thestreet streetand andon onaaquiet quietpatio patio off off the the bar. bar.The The Spasso Spasso in in Old Old City City Philadelphia Philadelphia has has been been aa 16-year 16-year success success and and in in just just over over aa year year the the Media Media location location has has followed followed suit suit with with the the kitchen kitchen under under the the direction direction of of Chef Chef Roberto Roberto Medina.

Medina.

SEVEN SEVENSTONES STONESCAFE CAFE

24 24South SouthPlum PlumStreet Street Natalie NatalieGraham, Graham,Owner/Manager/Chef Owner/Manager/Chef Just Justoff offState StateStreet Streetand andback backaaquiet quietpublic publicarea areaisisthe theSeven Seven Stones Stones Cafe, Cafe, aa great great place place to to get get lunch lunch and and some some coffee. coffee.

Natalie Natalie Graham Graham started started the the business business in in 2005 2005 following following the the success success of of her her mother’s mother’s Native Native American American Shop, Shop, The The Seven Seven Stones Stones Gallery, Gallery, which which caused caused the the shop shop to to move move to to aa bigger bigger location. location.The The family family kept kept the the old old spot spot where where Natalie Natalie opened opened

30 Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2

Roughly Roughly 90% 90% of of the the food food from from Lotus Lotus Farm Farm to to Table Table comes comes from from within within aa fififty-mile fty-mile radius radius of of its its location. location.Roughly, Roughly,that that is, is, because because when when you you serve serve food food directly directly from from farm farm to to table table you you can can only only serve serve what’s what’s in in season. season. Owner Owner Courtney Courtney RozRozsas sasstudied studiedbiology biologybefore beforediscovering discoveringher hergenuine genuineinterest interestin in living livinghealthy healthyand andresponsibly responsiblywhile whilestudying studyingChinese ChineseMedMedicine icine in in Southeast Southeast Asia.

Asia.“It’s “It’s aa lifestyle lifestyle here,” here,”says says Courtney, Courtney, whose whose restaurant restaurant serves serves food food that that isis not not only only healthy healthy but but supportive supportive of of the the surrounding surrounding farming farming community. community. ExecuExecutive tive Chef Chef Ryan Ryan Sulikowski, Sulikowski,who who studied studied at at Le Le Cordon Cordon Blue, Blue, sites sites his his experience experience in in New New England England as as aa qualifi qualification cation for for this this challenging challenging position. position. “In “In Maine Maine and and Vermont Vermont everyeverything’s thing’sfarm farmto totable,” table,”says saysRyan Ryanwho whosays saysdesigning designingseasonal seasonal menus menus keeps keeps him him on on his his toes. toes.

FRONT FRONTSTREET STREETFOUNTAIN FOUNTAIN 11West WestFront FrontStreet Street Pat PatHanway, Hanway,Owner Owner

“When “When my my parents parents lived lived in in Media Media there there were were seven seven soda soda fountains fountains here.” here.” Owner Owner Pat Pat Hanway Hanway created created his his vision vision of of bringing bringing old old Media Media back back and and providing providing aa place place where where famifamilies lies could could come come and and where where the the kids kids could could play. play. In In addition addition to to aa super-fun super-fun menu menu including including great great burgers burgers and and ice ice cream, cream, Front Front Street Street Fountain Fountain has has aa playroom playroom with with aa huge huge chalkchalkboard. board. Family Family isis everywhere everywhere here, here, from from the the families families who who dine dine here here to to the the families families of of staff, staff,several several of of whom whom are are related related to to Pat. Pat. You’ll You’ll even even fifind nd Pat’s Pat’s family family named named on on the the menu, menu, as as in in“Little “Little Ed,” Ed,”“Buffalo “Buffalo Betsy,” Betsy,”and and“The “The Hermanator.”

Hermanator.”

HOUSE

LE BELLE EPOQUE

110-114 South Jackson Street Michael Hackett, Owner

38 West State Street Loic Barnieu, Executive Chef

“Sufficiently Ambiguous to sell whatever I want,” is owner and chef Michael Hackett’s tongue in cheek explanation for the curious name of his restaurant.

“House” really does stand for a certain combination of sophistication and simplicity. All of House’s offerings are what might seem to be everyday homemade sandwiches like Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup, except everything here is made from scratch and consists of locally produced gourmet ingredients. In fact, there are five different types of grilled cheese, including the Harvest which includes aged white cheddar, grilled onions, organic apples and smoked bacon.

This cozy corner bistro offers authentic French cuisine and over twenty wines by the glass. Pictured here is Canard a la Framboise, crispy duck with raspberry sauce. Wines can be ordered by the glass or in flights of three. Every Tuesday Le Belle Epoch offers a unique flight of three wines not listed on the menu.

SLIGO

113 West State Street Andrew Oberhoff, Executive Chef Sligo is a traditional Irish Pub and Restaurant serving a fantastic Irish inspired menu presented by Executive Chef Andrew Oberhoff. From coconut shrimp to fish and chips to these medallions wrapped in bacon, Chef Oberhoff has transformed the menu into something beyond simple pub food. The chef ’s latest culinary experiments include growing his own herbs and vegetables on the roof.

ARIANO

114 South Olive Street Anthony Bellapigna, Owner/Chef

House

Le Belle Epoque

Sligo

Ariano

Named for the town in Italy from where his family immigrated, Ariano is a monument to the parents and relatives of owner Anthony Bellapigna. He spent three years and ten months building the restaurant practically by hand.

The building is classy and bright but casual. The second floor provides balcony seating and a third level loft. Above the second floor dining room is a mural depicting scenes from Anthony’s family history. Filled with positive energy, Anthony even designed the menu around his family. Here we see a signature dish “Zia Rosa,” Artichoke Hearts and Prosciutto covered in pesto cream sauce.

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 31

WHATʼS

DIFFERENT

QUALITY INGREDIENTS BETTER FOR YOU ORGANIC GRASS-FED FREE-RANGE BETTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

Our ingredients are fresh, sustainable, and local when practical. Nothing on our menu contains trans-fat, and each Elevation Burger restaurant grinds its beef on the premises to ensure freshness and quality.

BURGERS TOPPINGS DRINKS & SIDES SHAKES & MALTS

Visit a Location Near You Willow Grove, PA | Collegeville, PA | Wynnewood, PA www.elevationburger.com

Ristorante San Marco

E

njoy the finest Italian cuisine in a uniquely intimate and elegant setting. Discover how La Famiglia Leone considers time and quality as the most important ingredients in the preparation of exquisite dishes and drink.

With a full complement of fine wines from around the world, there is always the potential for a delightful pairing.

San Marco takes pride in satisfying even the most discriminating tastes.

If you enjoy music, spend time in the beautifully appointed piano bar which features nightly live music by classically trained pianists. The versatile piano players can accommodate almost any request. Their passionate music attracts the best singing talent in the area, part of what makes San Marco an unforgettable experience.

And San Marco knows that when it comes to special events, the key to creating a successful one is careful planning. They have experience with hosting warm and elegant events in their private banquet facilities.

Josephine and Leo Leone extend a heartfelt invitation to everyone, to visit and enjoy the finest Italian cuisine in our warm and elegant atmosphere.

Contact Ristorante San Marco by phone at (215) 654-5000 or visit www.sanmarcopa.com

Veal chop Grilled to perfection and served with vegetables and potatoes

Lobster Salad Chunk of lobster meat with asparagus, avocado, grape tomatoes, orange wedge, baby greens and a mustard vinaigrette dressing

Volume | Issue2012 2 Local Living 4133 September 8 | October Local Living

34

Local Living Volume 5 | Issue 2

Your Intuitive Appetite with Crystal Connor

SPRING CLEANING eople like “stuff”. We tend to hold onto it year after year. We save and stock up on things that we don’t know what to do with anymore. Maybe we keep things because they hold precious memories of days gone by, or they remind us of our parents, grandparents, past loves or childhood. To part with these precious possessions seems out of the question.

There is a saying that goes, “You have to get rid of the old to make way for the new.” If you are feeling stuck or stagnant in your life, try spring-cleaning. Throw out some of that stuff, say goodbye to your past and welcome the new energy of your happy, healthy future.

For good mental and physical health, we actually have two “houses” that need to be spring-cleaned: our physical homes and our physical bodies. Just as we accumulate “stuff” in the form of outgrown clothes, magazines, rusty bicycles, tools and random keepsakes, so do our bodies accumulate old food residues and toxins that need to be cleaned out.

To spring clean your body, give it a break from rich and complicated foods by either cleansing or fasting for a short period of time. Cleansing means paring down your food to just simple fruits and vegetables, lots of water and perhaps whole grains. Fasting means limiting most foods and drinking lots of water, fresh vegetables, teas and soups. Without much energy going toward digestion, more energy is available to the rest of your body and mind. Cleansing and fasting can sharpen your concentration, help you gain insight and promote spiritual awareness. It can also bring improved immune function and better digestion.

While you’re cleaning out your body and home, don’t forget to spring-clean your heart. Throw away negative thoughts and habits you’ve been harboring that

no longer serve you. A clean, open heart will allow you to receive all the good that awaits you each and every day. If your heart and mind are cluttered, there is no room for life’s gifts and surprises to enter.

Food Focus: Greens Leafy greens are some of the easiest and most beneficial vegetables to incorporate into your daily routine.

Densely packed with energy and nutrients, they grow upward to the sky, absorbing the sun’s light while producing oxygen. Members of this royal green family include kale, collard greens, Swiss chard, mustard greens, arugula, dandelion greens, broccoli rabe, watercress, beet greens, bok choy, napa cabbage, green cabbage, spinach and broccoli.

How do greens benefit our bodies? They are very high in calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorous and zinc, and are a powerhouse for vitamins A, C, E and K. They are crammed full of fiber, folic acid, chlorophyll and many other micronutrients and phytochemicals. Their color is associated with spring, which is a time to renew and refresh vital energy. In traditional Asian medicine, the color green is related to the liver, emotional stability and creativity. Greens aid in purifying the blood, strengthening the immune system, improving liver, gall bladder and kidney function, fighting depression, clearing congestion, improving circulation and keeping your skin clear and blemish free.

Leafy greens are the vegetables most missing from the American diet, and many of us never learned how to prepare them. Start with the very simple recipe below.

Then each time you go to the market, pick up a new green to try. Soon you’ll find your favorite greens and wonder how you ever lived without them.

Volume 8| Issue 2

Local Living 35

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For more information about our services, please visit www.potentialinc.org or call 215-579-0670 today.

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FINANCE

Financial Life

Management

UNITED CAPITAL FINANCIAL ADVISERS, LLC osemary Caligiuri is not your typical managing director of a financial wealth management firm. In fact she is anything but typical in her background or her approach to financial wealth planning. Before becoming Managing Director of United Capital in December 2015 she founded her own company in 1994 called Harvest Group Financial Services, Corp based in Langhorne, Pennsylvania with one passion in mind - to help people.

Helping people is what Rosemary has dedicated her life to. Prior to starting her company, Rosemary was a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor’s degree from Adelphi University. When speaking with many of her patients, mainly high-risk pregnancies, they would ask her questions about how their lives and finances would be affected by the health issues and decisions they made for themselves and their loved ones.

With a passion to assist these patients she started night classes in financial planning in order to better answer their questions. She found nothing she studied in her night classes adequately answered their questions or met their needs. That is what ultimately drove Rosemary to start her own company, Harvest Group Financial Services, Corp in 1994. She later found the typical brokerage firm was not serving the clients in the manner they needed. Ms.Caligiuri wanted to partner with people in order to assist them in navigating the process of life and money through truth, understanding and discipline.

When asked what her best trait in serving her clients’ needs she says, “being an empathetic listener”. This quality allows her to ask questions and get to the heart of the matter in order to tailor their financial planning based on their specific needs. She strives to create a meaningful impact on the whole journey of her clients’ financial needs.

38 Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2

Through a proprietary exercise called “Honest Conversations®” with her clients she elicits and empowers each person to have a voice. Rosemary finds with couples, even tears sometimes occur as each realizes how little they know about the others feeling about money. She creates a safe place to have them build their financial plans.

Rosemary’s niche client market is pre-retirement and retirement and catering to their specific needs. One year prior to merging with United Capital in 2014, Ms. Caligiuri earned her Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®) designation from American College.

Ms. Caligiuri acts as a coach and confidant in her approach to her clients’ financial needs. Rosemary guides her clients in how to achieve their end goals, assisting them in continuously adjusting their financial planning based on their personal views on money and what quality of life means to them throughout their lives.

In December 2015 Rosemary’s company Harvest Group partnered with United Capital, a financial wealth management firm founded by Joe Duran in 2005 in Newport Beach, California. United Capital has over $20 Billion in assets under management, over 195 advisors, over 80 offices nationwide and serves over 19,000 clients as of December 31, 2017.

United Capitals’ core values are similar to those which Rosemary started her company with giving the client genuine control over their financial life. Ms. Caligiuri has been quoted as saying “I have serviced generations of families for over 2 decades.” With United Capital, the firm will be able to “further our passion of being a guide and a coach … We will absolutely be able to help people at a much deeper level.”

United Capital has developed a dynamic process called Financial Life Management based on the life you

want to lead and continually adapting it to the changing world and their clients’ needs. Their proprietary philosophy includes Money Mind® a questionnaire designed to give a clear perspective picture of the clients’ approach to money.

United Capital’s proprietary approach also includes the 3 C's to financial success for their clients which are Clarity - What do I want my life to be like. ConfidenceWill I have the resources I need and Control- Am I prepared for life's surprises.

Ms. Caligiuri’s life mission to help people and United Capital’s business philosophy seem perfectly aligned. In her position of Managing Director at United Capital she can continue to provide her clients with a personalized financial plan.

A plan which is not just based on navigating through different market and economic cycles, but based on who they are as a person and their unique approach and perspective on money. Ms. Caligiuri helps clients make financial choices designed to lead them to a happy and prosperous life.

When asked about the 2018 new tax laws and the how it will affect the future for her clients, Rosemary pauses and says she will guide them through the process as she

has always done with their best interest and long term goals in mind. The 2018 tax changes sunset in 2026. She believes we should plan now with an eye to the future.

One thing she knows for sure is that life, and taxes, change. Rosemary and her team of Wealth Managers, Heidi Hirsh, RICP® and John Lindsey, CFP®, ChFC®, RICP®, are poised and ready to respond to any changes that come our way.

Ms. Caligiuri believes life is fluid and dreams and goals begin and end with healthy financial planning and investments. It is a holistic approach where it puts you in charge of your own destiny. Isn’t that something we want in our own lives? A person who can guide us in creating a roadmap for our financial future that is realistic, personalized and achievable.

United Capital Financial Advisers, LLC (“United Capital”) provides financial life management and makes recommendations based on the specific needs and circumstances of each client. For clients with managed accounts, United Capital has discretionary authority over investment decisions.

Investing involves risk and clients should carefully consider their own investment objectives and never rely on any single chart, graph or marketing piece to make decisions. The information contained herein is intended for information only, is not a recommendation to buy or sell any securities, and should not be considered investment advice. Please contact your financial adviser with questions about your specific needs and circumstances.

Volume 8| Issue 2

Local Living 39

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FINANCE

Talk About Finances Before Tying the Knot (Again)

By Adam Soloff, CFP™, EA

A

second marriage is no easy undertaking. In many cases, challenges like blending families, merging residences, and growing accustomed to living with someone new can make tying the knot much harder the second time around. The good news is, with the right planning, your finances don’t have to be.

As you enter into a new financial partnership, you will likely be haunted by “ghosts of marriage past,” such as debts and bad credit, mandated support payments from previous marriages, and obligations to two sets of children. To avoid unpleasant surprises, an open discussion of these issues, and others related to finance, should take place long before the ceremony. You and your spouse-to-be should walk down the aisle with a clear idea of one another’s goals, priorities and general attitudes toward money. Even if you don’t see eye-to-eye on every issue, at least you should develop a plan that takes everything into account and sets both of you at ease.

Providing for your children from previous marriages will likely be a top priority in your new financial plan. Typically, when you die, your assets are automatically handed down to the spouse. But in the case of a second marriage, there can be a surviving spouse, children from two previous marriages, and children from the new marriage to consider. The easiest answer—to disinherit your new spouse—is the wrong answer.

And the logical answer—to let your spouse live rent-free in your home and survive on your investments until they die, at which time your children will inherit the remainder of assets— is illogical. Your children’s investment objectives may differ from your spouse’s. They will watch every penny she spends.

And there will be animosity all around.

The answer lies in eliminating the financial connection between your spouse and children. You may decide to name your children as beneficiaries on your life insurance and retirement plan, while leaving your current spouse a lump sum or trust. Or, give your children and your spouse ownership of specific assets, which they will inherit when you’re gone. The answer will be unique to your specific situation.

Even with a solid financial plan in place, there are some other precautions you can take. If you have substantial assets or children to take care of, or just need added peace of mind that you are both protected financially, you may consider a pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreement. This document defines your rights, duties and obligations during marriage or in the event of a divorce down the road.

It might also make sense to keep your credit separate and pay close attention to how you title assets, such as real estate and cars. If you are older, it’s likely you also have retirement, pension and health benefits, as well as a hardearned nest egg, to protect. You will still want to leave the bulk of your estate to your children, if that’s what you had planned, and protect it from depletion if you ever have to enter a nursing home.

A qualified financial planner can help you put order to all of these moving parts and set you down the road to a happy, financially healthy new marriage. LL Adam is president and founder of Soloff Wealth Management Group; a local financial planning firm. All investments are offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. May June 2012 Volume 8||Issue 2 Local LocalLiving Living4943

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46 Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 47

senior perspective Words and Wisdom

Elderhostel A Senior Learning Experience

by Diane Burns

W

hen do we stop learning? Albert Einstein said, “Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only with death.“ There are many benefits to continuing our educational experiences after retirement. It keeps our minds active and our mental facilities exercised. We have an opportunity to pursue an interest we may not have had time to before, and we can choose what we want to study.

Most importantly, the new social interactions will increase our confidence and our memory becomes rejuvenated as our learning increases.

One way to challenge our minds is the Elderhostel program. Usually hosted on college campuses, this international nonprofit organization offers older adults short-term, lowcost courses, housing, and meals. Founded in 1975 by social activist Martin Knowlton, and David Bianco, a university professor, Edlerhostel was inspired from their experiences at youth hostels and folk schools of Europe. It began with 5 colleges and universities in New Hampshire; but today there are programs in all 50 states and 150 countries around the 10

Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2

world as well as aboard ships and vessels traveling the waterways of the globe.

Who are these adventurous seniors? They are lifelong learners and active, vibrant people who enjoy their independence – not necessarily independently wealthy, but are able to function on their own. They are able to get around and don’t need much assistance. Members come from all areas of the workforce from a judge, to a wildcat oil explorer, or a widow who receives the program as a gift from family.

The program combines stimulating, not-for-credit courses and comfortable, inexpensive housing. At over 300 college campuses in the United States and Canada, men and women over the age of 60 are living in dormitories, taking up to three special one-week classes, and generally having the time of their lives. Courses are not focused on problems of the elderly; rather seniors are taking a class in the liberal arts and sciences. Subjects may range from historical battles to music appreciation.

Members often combine the courses with travel plans to visit relatives, historical sites, or national parks. They may start out in Philadelphia taking a course for a week. Travel to Boston to visit friends and then pick up Elderhostel again in another state and so on.

In 1981 the program went international with classes in Mexico, Great Britain, and Scandinavia. These programs combined education with travel and history of the countries visited. The members learned through lectures, field trips, cultural excursions, and other activities.

There are many types of tours such as: • Independent City Discoveries • Grandparent and Child travel • National Parks • Outdoor Adventures • Service Learning In 2010 Elderhostel changed its name to “Road Scholar” in order to appeal to the next wave of older travelers. James Moses, CEO, explained the name change by saying “hostel” no longer accurately, described the housing offered in the program. ROAD connotes a journey and a real-world expeing. Together the words capture the heart of the program.

Just imagine the pleasure and satisfaction of learning without grades or tests to worry about. All you need is an inquiring mind, a sense of adventure, and a belief in the joy of lifelong learning.

Diane Burns is a freelance writer currently residing in Chester County, PA

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 49

Women & Heart Disease

T

raditionally, the emphasis on heart disease has been on men and the well-known heart attack symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath. When a woman has a heart attack, her symptoms may be different or subtle — potentially causing her and her healthcare providers to overlook the cause of the problem.

Women and men are different. Factors, such as a woman’s hormonal changes during menopause, have an impact on how a woman is affected by cardiovascular disease and the effectiveness and risks associated with certain treatments. Women may be less likely to ask for help when they don’t feel well.

Raising awareness among patients and healthcare providers will arm women with the information they need to take better care of themselves and their families.

50 Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2

Heart Attack Warning Signs When a heart attack strikes, seconds count for everyone, regardless of your gender, age or eth nicity. Any delay in treating your heart attack increases your chances of permanent, irreparable damage to your heart—and, it could cost you your life.

If you do find that you are having any one or a combination of any of the following symptoms, it is important to call 911 immediately:

· Chest pain or discomfort. Many heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than

a few minutes or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or stabbing pain. But remember: Heart attacks are not always preceded by chest pain.

· Pain radiating to the neck, shoulder, back, arm or jaw. · Pounding heart, change in rhythm. · Difficulty breathing. · Heartburn, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain. · Cold sweats or clammy skin. · Dizziness.

Volume 8 | Issue 2

Local Living 51

New Knees Help Keep Sisters in Bakery Business C arole Algier and her two sisters work together, baking and selling specialty cakes. Their days, she says, are just filled with joy. Their business, Full Spirited Flavours TM, is a second career for each of them and something the close-knit trio believes was destined to be.

But that’s that’s not not all all these thesewomen womendo do together. together. In In the the past past two two But years, all three three have havehad had double double knee knee replacements, replacements Carole at Pottstown years, all Memorial Medical Center, by the same orthopedic surgeon, this past June.

All had surgery at Pottstown Memorial Medical Nikos MD,orthopedic of Brandywine Institute Orthopaedics.

Center,Pavlides, by the same surgeon, NikosofPavlides, MD, of And they all Institute stayed inoftheOrthopaedics. same room atAnd PMMC’s Brandywine they allCenter stayedfor in the Orthopedics Spine. Center for Orthopedics and Spine. same room atand PMMC’s “Dr. Pavlides is so tuned in to you as a patient, and his team at Pottstown is the same way,” says Algier, a Glenmoore resident.

“Everyone is on the same page. You feel safe and secure in their hands and so well cared for.”

Sister Sue was the first to have surgery, two years ago. Algier calls her “the scout” who researched and found the best doctor for “mature” knees pained by arthritis. Kathy had surgery a year ago.

“We were there for one another through the surgeries, and that support was great,” Algier says. “But also, Dr. Pavlides has such a complete program at Pottstown. There’s no way you can’t recoup!”

Innovative Techniques, Personalized Care Algier says Dr. Pavlides “is not one to jump into surgery” as the only option. He first advises weight loss, exercise and other nonsurgical options to alleviate knee pain. Her praise for Dr. Pavlides includes not only her hospital care and comprehensive therapy, but also her scar.

“I’m proud of my scar,” she says. “At therapy other patients noticed it and other doctors have asked about it.”

Dr. Pavlides uses minimally invasive surgical techniques and closes the incision from the inside out. It’s a cosmetic approach, he explains.

“I don’t use staples or close from the outside, so you don’t get that railroad track effect,” he says. “It takes more time, but I feel patients don’t need a big scar that’s a constant reminder of the surgery.”

From her sisters’ experience, Algier also knew she would receive an extraordinary level of personal attention from Dr. Pavlides.

“He spent time with me every day in the hospital and made sure I had everything I needed,” she says. “I’ve never had a better experience.”

4 • Fall2013 • TheCenterPost

5252Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2 Local Living Volume 5 | Issue 2 Cake Sisters 17X11 Poster.indd 1

‘‘

The physician you see in the office is the one who performs your surgery and is also the one you see after surgery. It’s very personalized care.

’’

—Nikos Pavlides, MD Orthopedic surgeon Independent Member of the Medical Staff

Why for Why Choose Choose PMMC for Knee Replacement?

Replacement?

Dedicated orthopedic center • Dedicated orthopedic 1. with private rooms center with private rooms High standard of quality care 2.

• High standard of quality care New techniques/gender-specific 3. joint replacement • Gender-specific joint replacement sparing knee replacement infection rate 4.ACLLower • Lower infection rate Demonstrated successful outcomes 5.

Designated assuccessful a Blue • Demonstrated outcomes

6.

7.

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TheCenterPost • Fall2013 • 5

VolumeVolume 8 | Issue 2 Local Living 53 5 | Issue 2 Local Living 53 2/23/15 7:41 PM

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Local Living Volume 5 | Issue 2

2

- PIECE

Bikini? Yes, you can.

If you feel your body just isn’t in “bikini shape” anymore — but long for the days when you would turn heads strolling on the beach in your favorite two-piece — a tummy tuck could be your solution. A tummy tuck can give you the flat stomach you once had. It’s often suggested for women unhappy with their tummy’s appearance after pregnancy and for women who diet and exercise, but just can’t seem to lose that annoying little bulge around their midsection. Call us today for a no-obligation consultation. Together we’ll evaluate your situation and determine if a tummy tuck is a viable solution for you.

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Remember that not all physicians who perform plastic surgery or use the title are board certified in plastic surgery. Look for this symbol to be sure.

56 Local Living Volume 7 | Issue 6

fashionista

Spring Wardrobe Woes

A

Spring Wardrobe Woes

lmost everyone loves when the weather turns warmer and the smell of fresh flowers in the spring air. Some fashionistas, myself included, wistfully dream of being able to wear boots and coats just a few more weeks.

It is not that I am opposed to this season… spring weather just implies less options in outfits, as fewer layers are required mixed with the expectation to wear prints and brighter colors.

Just the thought of trying to meet this fashion expectation makes my senses reel in panic, as black is my favorite color and, on an incredibly risk-taking day, possibly white or tan.

That being said, spring clothing trends cannot be avoided.

We must learn to tackle them like a paint-by-numbers painting, by filling in the suggested images with colors we feel comfortable with.

Rather than pinks, cobalt blues and yellows, our pictures will be filled with subtle shades of grey, white and beiges.

The painting will keep its artistic integrity, as with the trends of the spring season, but the interpretation will be very different.

So we can face the change in season smiling with satisfaction rather than frowning in frustration, here are a few survival tips for the fashionista not so fond of spring: 1. Prioritize what you most like about the upcoming spring season- is it shape, lengths, or accessories? By doing a little research, you will be able to filter through your likes and dislikes immediately.

2. After determining what your spring trends will be, focus on adding those elements to your existing wardrobe.

Don’t spend time and money purchasing items from a season you do not want to invest in heavily.

3. Create a budget you want to stay in and what are your investment pieces. By knowing that you are more of a fall/ winter fashionista, concentrate on your investment pieces for the spring to be key items that are more season-less.

4. Sticking to classic shapes in black, white and shades of grey allow you to have a comfortable starting point to add on to. Fabrics that work all year round are: ponte, jersey, and silk. These materials can be layered according to the season.

5. By adding texture or statement pieces to your classic shapes you can remain current and still feel like yourself.

Bold statement necklaces, scarves, or handbags in colorful or unusual shapes can easily add a lighter layer to your personal style.

6. Pick bright accessories that will complement your neutral wardrobe. Turquoise is always an amazing color for spring and provides a lift to a black or white dress. Shoes and sandals with color and adornment can add a layer of whimsy to a classic wardrobe.

By following these little pearls of wisdom, we can ensure that our personal style stays intact, but we won’t miss an opportunity to be fashionable as the weather warms.

— Anonymous Self-Proclaimed Shopaholic

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Volume 5 | Issue 2 Local Living

57

beauty

CARMINE & COMPANY Hair Salon & Color Studio

A

t Carmine & Company our Stylists and Colorists are impassioned, enlightened and inspiring. We believe you should never under-estimate the power of a consultation. That is how we learn what you love, how we grow, and how ideas sprout to life. We ask questions and we listen to your answers to find the perfect look that works for you.

We help you take the right steps to move ahead with confidence.

Hair Artistry is at the heart of what we do in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. So when the conversation turns to your hair, turn to us! We look forward to seeing you.

Hairstyling, Cutting, Color, Special Occasion Hair, Makeup and Airbrush Makeup, Waxing and Hair Extensions.

We specialize in Hot Headz hair extensions.

Bridal Parties of three or more that have their hair done Bride gets make-up done for free.

Mention this ad to receive 20% off your first visit! $40.00 off Hot Heads hair extensions.

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Local Living May | June 2013

fashion

Occasions Boutique Because Life is Not a Dress Rehearsal

L

ocated in Malvern’s quaint downtown, Occasions Boutique offers clothing and accessories for a variety of special occasions. From the tiniest, most precious flower girl’s dress to a sophisticated, formal black sheath, every garment is a standout. Our extensive selection of evening, prom and communion gowns is widely regarded as the best in the area! The attentive staff can assist with expert fitting and offer the perfect accessories such as handbags, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and brooches to complete your look. Whether you need matching shoes, a stole, or even shape wear, we have all that you need under one roof.

Customer service is the hallmark of small businesses like this one, where people are the focus and a satisfied customer is the goal.

Our designers include the best in formalwear. For mother of the wedding, evening and social occasions, we carry: Montage, Cameron Blake and Ivonne D by Mon Cheri, Junnie Leigh, Jovani, Daymor, Terani, Rina di Montella, VM by Mori Lee and Damianou.

Our prom lines include Jovani, Faviana, Terani, La Femme and Sherry Hill. For little girls celebrating their First Holy Communion our lines include couture dresses as well as ready-towear: Christie Helene, Joan Calabrese for Mon Cheri, Susanne Lively and Little Princess and US Angels. And for our littlest customers, our selection of Christening gowns is unsurpassed.

We also carry fabulous gowns for that second or destination wedding.

A seamstress is available for alterations if necessary for that perfect fit.

Pay us a visit soon and see for yourself our offerings & designers.

30 E. King Road | Malvern, PA | (610) 296-0442 | occasions-boutique.com

58 Local Living Volume 8 | Issue 2

smart shopping

Why Shop Thrift?

by Jill Tarabar

T

ake a step inside Impact Thrift Store in Feasterville, PA and your first thought might be, “The sign says thrift but this can’t be a thrift store. Is this really a thrift store?” Large, well lit, spacious, clean, filled with a variety of second-hand and even some new merchandise… Impact Thrift is a new breed of thrift store that some like to call hybrid thrift.

Back in the day, thrift stores were individually run mom and pop junk shops. If this was the place your mom took you to purchase clothing, you were most likely too embarrassed to wear them to school. The shops smelled like your grandmother’s attic and every item seemed coated with 40 years of dust and grime.

Thrift stores have come a long way over the decades. Today’s thrift stores barely resemble those of the past. Many are large, clean and well stocked. They run the gamut from for-profit to not-for-profit and can support one charity to multiple charities at a time.

Shopping thrift can be a treasure hunt and is best approached with an open mind. On any given day, the items you may find at today’s thrift store are typically much higher in quality and value than in traditional thrift stores and in a very reasonable price range. Clothing donated to Impact Thrift Stores, for example, goes through a tough inspection process. Our staff examines each item donated, whether it’s a vintage Chanel cocktail dress or a broken-in pair of

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jeans. These items often have been worn repeatedly by their previous owner and have stood the test of time, still retaining resale value. So much of the donated clothing is still in extraordinary condition, and often never worn at all. There are times when items are even donated with its original price tags! You will find some fabulous designer fashions on resale racks that you would never imagine owning at their original full retail price.

Thrift stores of today offer an amazing array of products, mostly second hand, at surprisingly reasonable prices. At Impact Thrift Stores, they accomplish this through the extraordinarily generous donations of neighbors and friends, businesses and community partners. Many donate merchandise because they look around and realize they have been blessed with so much more than they need in their lives. Others donate in order to de-clutter or downsize their homes, believe in the environmental ideals of recycle-reuserenew, or choose this way to support charities.

In addition to a wide range of pre-owned or legacy items, Impact Thrift Stores offers a variety of brand new items – clothing, shoes, furniture, house ware and home decor. This hybrid combination of new and used, gives shoppers choices that aren’t available elsewhere.

Why shop thrift? Because superior value can be found for a lower cost, and you will be doing your part to help our planet and your neighbors in need. Because it’s the right thing to do!

Volume 8 | Issue 2 Local Living 59

HOLY GHOST PREP An Independent Catholic College Prep School for Boys

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pets pets

Food Recalls - Is Your PetPet Safe?

Food Recalls - Is Your Safe?

by Carla Papciak-Glatts

by Carla Papciak-Glatts

W W

hether you you are watching the the news, look-look- where you are hether are watching news, where youcooking. are cooking. ing on media, or atorthe dedicated utensils and and bowls for for pet’spet’s food.food. ingsocial on social media, at veterinarian’s the veterinarian’s 2. Use 2. Use dedicated utensils bowls office, the phrase “pet “pet foodfood recall” is hard to to AfterAfter everyevery feeding washwash youryour bowls withwith hot hot waterwater and and office, the phrase recall” is hard feeding bowls miss.miss.

Pet food has been recalled for kibble, alongalong withwith youryour preparation area.area.

Pet food has been recalled for kibble, soap,soap, preparation caned wet wet food,food, frozen patties, treats, and and farmfarm feed.feed.

LastLast 3. Refrigerate leftover foodfood properly withwith a seal; this this will will caned frozen patties, treats, 3. Refrigerate leftover properly a seal; year year the FDA recalled overover a dozen manufacturer’s pet food growth of harmful bacteria. the FDA recalled a dozen manufacturer’s pet food prevent prevent growth of harmful bacteria. products due due to contamination, insufficient vitamin supplecan can be done to help prevent youryour pet from con-conproducts to contamination, insufficient vitamin supple- What What be done to help prevent pet from ments, and and foreign objects. taminated food?food?

If the is contaminated fromfrom the facments, foreign objects. taminated If food the food is contaminated the facRecalls can can happen 3 ways: the manufacturer pullspulls theirtheir tory tory and and is recalled by the throw it out Recalls happen 3 ways: the manufacturer is recalled

by FDA, the FDA, throw it immediately. out immediately. product, the FDA Requests, or FDA orders by authority. canscans or dry withwith tearstears in the product, the FDA Requests, or FDA orders by authority. Do not Do buy not damaged buy damaged or food dry food inbags. the bags.

Some of the popular brands of pet foodfood that that havehave beenbeen Research youryour dog dog foodfood company.

ThisThis may may require a phone Some of the popular brands of pet Research company. require a phone recntly recalled include: Pedigree, HillsHills Science Diet,Diet, Pu- Pu- call, call, but but it will be worth youryour time.time.

FindFind out out where theythey recntly recalled include: Pedigree, Science it will be worth where rina,rina, Beneful, IamsIams and and Nutro.

OneOne of the common theirtheir food.food.

Companies that that outsource theirtheir Beneful, Nutro. of most the most common manufacture manufacture Companies outsource contaminations is Salmonella, which is a istype of bacteria to other facilities havehave less control overover following pro-procontaminations is Salmonella, which a type of bacteria foodfood to other facilities less control following that that can contaminate foodfood processed in a in factory.

When pet pet tocols.

Ask Ask where theythey obtain theirtheir ingredients; poorpoor ingrecan contaminate processed a factory.

When tocols. where obtain ingredients; ingrefoodfood is made, it is usually cooked to temperatures that that would can lead to tainted food.food.

FindFind out if they do quality is made, it is usually cooked to temperatures would dients dients can lead to tainted out if they do quality kill bacteria.

However, if there is anisadditive (such(such as flavoron their food.food.

A reputable company will will perform kill bacteria.

However, if there an additive as flavor- testing testing on their A reputable company perform ing or dye)dye) that that is contaminated, that that couldcould causecause the the well well overover 100 100 teststests on their foodfood before it leaves the facility. ingfood or food is contaminated, on their before it leaves the facility. foodfood to become bad.bad.

Lastly, just because the food says,says, “organic” or “natural” that that to become Lastly, just because the food “organic” or “natural” If your pet digests the contaminated foodfood theythey will demonnot ensure the safety of the If your pet digests the contaminated will demon- doesdoes not ensure the safety of product. the product. stratestrate signssigns of food poisoning.

Vomiting, lethargy, feverfever and and If you youryour pet food or treats are making youryour pet pet of food poisoning.

Vomiting, lethargy, If suspect you suspect pet food or treats are making bloody diarrhea are all that that can last days.

If If sick,sick, report it to itthe (www.fda.gov).

You You can submit a a bloody diarrhea aresymptoms all symptoms can up lasttoup5 to 5 days. report to FDA the FDA (www.fda.gov). can submit you suspect youryour pet ispet experiencing any signs of distress, con-con- complaint online or call the Consumer Complaint hotline you suspect is experiencing any signs of distress, complaint online or call the Consumer Complaint hotline tact your vet immediately.

Beware that that we can state.state.

If you to research or receive notifications tact your vet immediately.

Beware we also can get alsoSalmoget Salmo- for your for your If want you want to research or receive notifications nellanella poisoning simply fromfrom touching the contaminated foodfood and and alertsalerts on recalled pet foods, go togowww.petfoodrecall. poisoning simply touching the contaminated on recalled pet foods, to www.petfoodrecall. and coming in contact withwith our mouths.

Our Our pets pets can harbor Staying informed and and notifying the FDA of concerns and coming in contact our mouths. can harbor org. org.

Staying informed notifying the FDA of concerns the bacteria in their mouths and and spread it to itwhatever comes save save a peta from a serious illness or death. the bacteria in their mouths spread to whatever comes couldcould pet from a serious illness or death. in contact withwith them, so tosoprevent yourself and and youryour family in contact them, to prevent yourself family fromfrom getting sick sick follow the following steps:steps: CarlaCarla Papciak-Glatts is anisanimal activist, shelter volunteer, getting follow the following Papciak-Glatts an animal activist, shelter volunteer, mommom of two girls girls and aand German Shepherd.

She resides 1. When handling youryour pet’spet’s food,food, washwash youryour hands thor-thor- and busy and busy of two a German Shepherd.

She resides 1. When handling hands BucksBucks County. oughly afterafter preparing.

Don’t prepare the food in aninarea in Upper County. oughly preparing.

Don’t prepare the food an area in Upper

Local Living Volume 2 626262 Local Living Volume 5 | Issue 28 | Issue Local Living Volume 5 | Issue 2

Local Local

goes local goes local

Virginia Wine Country

By Diane Burns

I

n 1771 our third President Thomas Jefferson tried his hand at wine making in his home state of Virginia. And although Jefferson was successful in many endeavors, wine making was not one of them. His vines were infected by a deadly louse, which destroyed his vineyard and most of the soil around it. For the next 200 years, any wine that was produced in Virginia was undrinkable and tasted like detergent.

Over the years the wines became more tolerable but not remarkable.

However, the last 40 years has produced a generation of excellent VA winemakers whose wines can compete with the best of California wines. The state is the home of over 230 vineyards, and Virginia is now the fifth largest wine grapegrowing state in the country. The wines in this state have received many accolades from tourists and high scores from professional critics.

So let’s take a short tour of the most awarded wineries in the area. Each winery is in a unique location with beautiful scenery, spectacular views, and quaint little towns. The state is divided into several wine tasting regions, so you have a choice of different areas in the northern, central or southern part of the state. What better

6464Local Volume 8 | Issue 2 LocalLiving Living Volume 5 | Issue 2

way to experience a short getaway than a visit to the wine country of Virginia?

These are the vineyards that are putting Virginia wines on the map: Potomac Point Winery- Stafford, VA The vineyard is a Tuscany-like estate just 45 minutes outside Washington, DC. Enjoy wine tasting in the tasting room or outside in the New Orleans style courtyard, while the children have some play time in the Lil Buds Room. There is also a Bistro open for a light menu of Tapas, soups, and salads.

Cedar Creek Vineyard For those who want to learn more about the wines of Virginia, this vineyard has a very educational tasting. Cedar Creek is an award winning family owned farm winery and vineyard. Although they only produce two wines, tourists highly recommend a visit to Cedar Creek.

Glen Manor The winery is situated on the west side of the Blue Ridge. The vineyard has a unique environment, with vines perched on steep mountain slopes. Grapes are grown mostly for their Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot wines.

Villa Appalachia – Floyd, VA This is a beautiful venue with an excellent variety of wines. You will definitely be able to relax at this Italian inspired winery. Chianti Classico is the grape predominately grown and produced at Villa Appalachia.

Valhalla Vineyard – Shenandoah Valley Come and enjoy a tour of the winery and barrel cave conducted by the very professional staff. There Syrah has received the Governor’s Cup as well as many other National and International awards.

This is just a sample of the more than 200 wineries Virginia has to offer. Forbes Magazine once asked the question “Is Virginia the Napa of the East?” Why not experience the answer to that question first hand. You won’t be sorry you did.

Contact the Chamber of Commerce for more information and a map of the entire wine making regions.

Virginia Chamber of Commerce –9 19 East Main Street, Richmond, VA 23219 (804)644-1607 or www.virgina.org Diane Burns is a freelance writer now residing in Chester County, PA

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