Feb/March 2012 - "The Love Issue"

MANIAC FEBRUARY l MARCH 2012

THE

Love

ISSUE

$4.25

Lucy Ha l e

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GOOD LUCK BEING FASHIONABLY LATE. THE NEW MINI COUPE. HOLD ON.

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AT F I R S T

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MANIAC FEBRUA RY / M A RC H 2 012 C O N TR I BUTORS

P u b l i s h e r / E d i t or in C h i e f April Hubal E d i t or Jennifer K. McGlincy A SS I STA N T ED I TOR Kaitlin Busch A rt Di r e c t or / De s i g n e r Elizabeth Glaessner Di r e c t or of A dv e rt i s in g Jessica Wielock P ho t o g r ap h y Samantha Alder, Jordan Beckham, Hillel Dlugacz, Lara Ferri, Bess Friday, April Hubal, Jessica Lewis Photography​, Tobi Makinde, Adam Milliron​, Luca Nocera, Dana Patrick, Katelyn Petraitis, Bill Schmidt, Michael Schwartz​, Matthew Shuck, Ben Spell, Robert Stein, Pieter M. van Hattem, Mathieu Young ​ Writers Kaitlin Busch, Bridgette Cunningham, April Hubal, Dominic Janidas, Salene Mazur Kraemer, Alicia McElhaney, ​Jennifer K. McGlincy, Pamala Oslie, ​G esina Phillips, Katherine Reel, Hilary Rushford, Robert Stein, Ethlie Ann Vare, Nicole Widdowson

M A N I AC M AG A Z I N E 5239 Butler Street | Pittsburgh, PA 15201 maniaceditor@maniacmagazine.com maniacmagazine.com 412.696.0702 l advertising inquries 8

O N T HE C O V E R Lucy Hale wears a black dress by Topshop. Black leather corset belt, John Paul Gualtier. Black silk peplum belt, Tim van Steenbergen. Red satin clutch, Giuseppe Zanottii. Gold ring/bracelet, Giuseppe Zanotti.

Photography by April Hubal Styled by Lara Backmender Hair by Scott Cunha Makeup by Agostina

MANIAC L e t t e r s t o t h e e d i t or

Dear Editor, Thank you for the amazing Dog Issue. The entire thing was packed with information on each page that any dog lover would devour. The imagery continues to impress me and the layouts are simply stunning.

Kevin | West Virginia

S e n d pa rt y i de a s , c o mp l im e n t s , c r i t ici s m s , an d wi t t ici s m s t o : M A N I AC M ag azin e 5239 Butler Street Pittsburgh, PA 15201 maniaceditor@maniacmagazine.com

Dear Editor, Loved the Maniac Shops section in the last issue. The accessories from ModCloth were fabulous and I also liked the feature on ArtPaw.com. I plan to treat myself to a custom pet portrait. I am thankful that you provided items that we could order online as they are mores accessible to readers like me that live far from Pittsburgh.

Kristina | Los Angeles

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the most maniac mutts Silas and Chawa Maniac hosted our fourth “Maniac Mutt Contest” in December and we are thrilled that our readers continue to participate and submit their favorite four legged friends. This time, Silas and Chawa stole the hearts of Facebook voters, garnering a total of 186 votes.

Silas, a Great Dane, and Chawa, a Chihuahua belong to Officer Mark Kneebone (Zone 5 Pittsburgh) and Janalyn Budzik, respectively, though Janalyn points out that, “momma takes care of both.”

This unlikely duo likes to spend time on the couch watching TV and wrestling with each other. “Chawa jumps all over Silas’ face and bites at his paws. Silas is so sweet and just moves Chawa around with his head,” giggled Janalyn. She also commented that Silas was silent until he met Chawa – learning all of his barking and bad habits from his smaller, sassier counterpart.

“We are thrilled that Silas and Chawa won. I got so many votes by posting daily reminders to my friends and family on Facebook and by asking my office to vote. I reminded people that I always try to support their causes any way I can, and that clicking a button was much easier than breaking out your wallet for the holidays,” explained proud momma Janalyn about clenching the top spot.

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MANIAC CONTENTS February / March 2012 12/ UNDERCOVER Lucy Hale: The Prettiest Little Liar

20/ MUSIC Young the Giant

22/ MUSIC Tyson Ritter: The All American Rejects

28/ STYLE Bi-coastal Bombshell

30/ FASHION J’adore Paris

40/ FEATURE When You Care Enough to Hit Send

43/ PROFILE The Dog Days are Over at Urban Dog

44/ FEATURE Perfect Your Style, Perfect Your Destiny

PAGE 28

50/ SHOPS Sexy, Sassy, Sweet

52/ ART Brooklyn Museum Present Keith Haring

54/ EVENT Maniac Launches Feb/March Issue with a 50’s Style Winter Party

58/ EVENT

PAGE 12

Urban Canvas

63/ BEAUTY Valentine’s Vixen

66/ JET-SET Egypt

72/ FOOD Romantic Rondezvouz: SAVOY

73/ ACCESSORIES The Jewels of Ceasar

74/ QUIZ What’s Your Love Aura

78/ EXPOSE Love Addiction

84/ GUIDE Single Girls Guide to Valentines Day

PAGE 50 10

PAGE 44 70

PAGE 30

Dear

MANIAC

lovers ,

TA K E A B I GGER B I TE OUTTA L I FE

February is upon us and we are once again faced with what some refer to as the most romantic day of the year, and others refer to as the “Hallmark Holiday.” No matter your views on Valentine’s Day, one thing is certain; love is all around us, and I’ve highlighted some things I love from this issue. Enjoy!

When it came to choosing the cover girl for our “Love Issue”, there was no denying that we love Lucy (pun intended). Lucy Hale, the gorgeous brunette star of Pretty Little Liars (ABC Family), discusses the identity of “A”, her love life, Hollywood recognition and shopper’s remorse.

Taking part in Maniac Q&A for this issue are Seamus Dever, the hunky star of Castle (ABC) who talks about his connection to Pittsburgh and working with his wife and “The Guncles,” (Bill Horn and Scout Masterson) who share their modern family and the changing landscape of American families each week on Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood (Oxygen).

Music addicts can devour profiles on Young The Giant, whose headlining tour begins in February, and Tyson Ritter, who is back and hotter than ever with All American Rejects’ fourth full-length studio album, Kids in the Street, set to drop in March. Love addicts, on the other hand, might head caution as the warning signs of Love Addiction are spelled out in a riveting exposé by Ethlie Ann Vare.

If you’re looking for a lighter side of love, take our Love Aura Quiz to discover your best love matches, and get advice from Hilary Rushford on how Perfecting Your Style can Perfect Your Destiny.

You can perfect your style in other ways, perhaps, but picking up one-of-a-kind jewelry and accessories by local designer, Caesar Azzam, or Brooklyn-based Elizabeth Knight Jewelry by Elizabeth Thompson. Also highlighted in this issue is American pop art icon, Keith Haring, whose work is on display at the Brooklyn Museum March 16 through June 8.

Small trips to Brooklyn can awaken and inspire, but for JetSet we have highlighted a land shrouded in tradition, amidst a revolution and begging for exploration – Egypt.

Whether it’s the love of travel that excites you, the love of TV, the love of music, the love fashion, the love of a man, or woman, or dog, I wish you all warmth in your hearts.

Remember always that when searching for the love of your life, sometimes you just have to look in the mirror.

Sincerely,

Jenny McGlincy Jennifer K. McGlincy | Editor This issue is dedicated to the love of my life, my husband, Kent who inspires me to breathe, forces me to laugh, and loves me unconditionally ... even when I’m hungry.

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Lucy Hale PRETTY LITTLE LIAR Lucy hale shines brightly as the artistic and independent Aria Montgomery who faces inner turmoil that may, or may not include murder, and most certainly includes attraction to older, worldly men. We found Lucy Hale just after the winter premiere – season two - of Pretty Little Liars, embarking on a journey of self-reflection and exploration as Aria Montgomery and embracing her own new recognition in Hollywood with refreshing humility.

W r i t t e n b y J e nni f e r K . M cG l inc y S t y l e d b y La r a Backm e n d e r

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P h o t o g r ap h y b y A p r i l H u b a l

Hai r b y Sc o t t C u n h a

M ak e u p b y A g o s t ina

UNDERCOVER Lulu Frost necklace multi chain Berliner Black long lace dress

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UNDERCOVER

Who

is A? That is the question on the tip of everyone’s tongue, that is, if you’re a fan of hit ABC Family series, Pretty Little Liars. Some would suggest, however, an equally pressing question lays in one particular part of the ensemble Hollywood ingénue cast; who is Lucy Hale?

For starters, this gorgeous, petite brunette actress is best known - at the moment - for bringing to life the character of Aria, who first appeared in print. Pretty Little Liars is the first of 12 young adult book series written by Sara Shepard. The book and the television series follows the lives of four girls – Spencer, Hanna, Aria (Hale), and Emily – whose high school clique falls apart after the disappearance of their leader, Alison DiLaurentis. Three years after the disappearance, Alison’s body is found, and they begin receiving various messages from someone using the alias “A” who threatens to expose their secrets and get revenge.

Lucy hale shines brightly as the artistic and independent Aria Montgomery who faces inner turmoil that may, or may not include murder, and most certainly includes attraction to older, worldly men. We found Lucy Hale just after the winter premiere – season two - of Pretty Little Liars, embarking on a journey of self-reflection and exploration as Aria Montgomery and embracing her own new recognition in Hollywood with refreshing humility.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Lucy Hale (Karen Lucille “Lucy” Hale) was just 13 years old when she tried out for the reality TV talent show, American Juniors, a fortuitous event that would thrust her on a path to Hollywood and involve her in projects she had never dreamed of. Hale was part of the vocal quintet formed with the top five finishers on American Juniors. “I have always loved to sing. I’ve been singing as long as I can remember for fun. I would sing along to Disney Princess Soundtracks. It wasn’t until I was seven that my mom overheard me and pointed out that I actually had talent and asked me if I wanted to take lessons,” Hale explained about how she started singing. “I heard that American Juniors had tryouts close to my home in Memphis and I went for it,” she continued.

Hale moved to Los Angeles with her mother for three months while taping American Juniors. She would return later to pursue her acting career at the age of 15.

It’s accurate to say that Hale’s career began with singing. Her early success on American Juniors showcased a natural born talent and begged the question about whether she plans to participate in future music-related projects (in addition to acting), Hale expressed, 14

“I’d love too. I’d love to make an album but I want the timing to be perfect. If I do a project like an album, I want to be 100 percent involved. It’s all about timing. I also have a dream of performing on Broadway one day. It is the ultimate test with the most demanding schedule. I get so busy taping Pretty Little Liars right now, but I’d love to do either in the future.”

The talent Hale displayed on American Juniors and on local stages where she said she performed at an early age was a springboard for her acting career. “Acting really came about because of singing.

I really wasn’t interested in acting but I slowly fell in love with it,” stated Hale about her segue to the small screen. “When I knew acting was something I wanted to do professionally, my mom and I picked up our lives in Memphis when I was 15 and moved to Los Angeles. She lived with me until I was 19,” stated Hale. I suggested jokingly that she kicked her mother out, about which she giggled, and we both conceded that everyone has to become a bill-paying, responsible adult at some point. Responsibility that also includes taking care of her Maltipoo (a Maltese Poodle hybrid), Jack, to whom she excused herself from the phone to speak for a moment.

Since the premiere of Pretty Little Liars in June, 2010, the ratings of the show, created by Marlene King, have skyrocketed and successes have included numerous nominations; most recently, (“Favorite Cable TV Drama”) which the show won, beating out Dexter (Showtime), Game of Thrones (HBO), True Blood (HBO) and White Collar (USA) for the People’s Choice Award on Jan 11. Hale too has been the hands-down favorite as she clenched the top spot at the Teen Choice Awards (“Choice Summer TV Star”) in 2010 and 2011. “It’s definitely an honor to get an award like that. It shows how involved the people get with the show and how much support they offer us. It’s crazy how much people get involved with the show. I have actually met fans who are furious with the writers when bad things happen to my character,” Hale said about winning the award.

People are certainly involved. Pretty Little Liars ranks as Cable’s #1 scripted telecast at nine o’clock in women viewers 18-34. Most certainly a guilty pleasure for some, Pretty Little Liars is turning up the heat in season two. “This season is completely psychotic,” Hale told me. “This season, viewers will find out who “A” is,” she explained. If you’ve read the books and know who “A” is already, have no fear. Hale suggests that perhaps “A” is not who you think it is; that perhaps the character is different for creative purposes – leaving us all on the edge of our seats. She also talked briefly about the recently relationship that Aria (a 16 year old,) has with her teacher, Ezra Fitz (a 23 year old) played by Ian Harding. When asked if she would ever consider such a scandalous affair, Hale commented, “Aria is an old soul. Parts of her are extremely mature.

I suppose you can’t help who you fall in love with.”

Love is another subject upon which we embarked during our conversation. Hale was said to have dated David Henrie of “How I met Your Mother” and “Wizards of Waverly Place” fame years ago, however, more recently has been linked by some celebrity blogs to Chris Zylka of the CW series, “A Secret Circle,” following a series of cryptic tweets. “It’s crazy how a conversation or a lunch means you are automatically dating someone. For example, so many people want to believe that Ian Harding (Ezra Fitz) and I are dating. He is a close friend,” Hale explained. On her current dating status, Hale said, “I am very happy,” a response that proved she is already very wise in the ways of handling unwanted press interest about her personal life.

She was more than happy, however, to talk about the things

UNDERCOVER belt/neck piece Giuseppe Zanotti black ribbed tank Herff Christiansen

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UNDERCOVER Cc Skye gold cuff Cc Skye gold pave ring oval Chanteuse black satin high shorts Eaburns black & gold chest piece Donna Karen ny bra

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UNDERCOVER she looks for in a guy. “I think any girl looks for a great sense of humor. I like someone who will keep me on my toes. I’m interested in guys that were brought up the same way as I was,” she articulated. “My mom would be happy if I dated a southern

“

else, Urban Outfitters and Free People are staples in my wardrobe,” she continued, “I still actually have shoppers remorse when I spend a lot of money on certain items. I like to keep it on a budget.” Hale recently signed her first endorsement deal with Bench Clothing, a fashion line based in the Philippines.

Hale shot the print campaign in November, 2011.

“Some hallmarks of Bench Clothing include their amazing jeans,” expressed Hale about her new relationship with the brand.

F r o m endorsement deals to nominations and possible albums to Broadway debuts, Lucy Hale is quickly becoming what we refer to as “Young, Hot, Hollywood.” As our conversation concluded, I couldn’t help but recognize how likable she was. As mentioned previously, Hale’s refreshing enthusiasm about her career and all the possibilities in front of her illustrate that not only will the identity of “A” be all the chatter among, well, everyone, but so will the future of Lucy Hale.

I’ve been singing as long as I can remember for fun. I would sing along to Disney Princess Soundtracks.

gentlemen,” she joked. A perfect date for Hale would possibly include sushi and live music. She admits to loving country music as her Memphis routes would suggest and sites some of her favorite artists in other genres as Gavin DeGraw, Ben Rector and James Morrisson. “Sushi and live music is definitely my style,” she proclaimed.

Her style - on and off screen - has garnered the attention of fashion blogs and style crunchers everywhere. Hale’s character on Pretty Little Liars combines boho with girly, edgy, classic looks almost effortlessly.

Hale explained that before Pretty Little Liars she honestly couldn’t define her own style, and is still developing her likes and dislikes.

“My style is completely bi-polar,” she said.

“One day I will wear something extremely girly, and the next [day] I will wear a leather jacket and boots,” she explained. She proudly admitted that during our interview on the phone that she was wearing sweats.

“I love fashion, I grew up looking at fashion magazines but my style has definitely evolved since joining the show,” she said. “I love L.A. style – anything goes,” she pointed out. Like any girl in her early twenties (or any age for that matter) Hale loves Marc Jacobs and Chanel (though she’s never worn Chanel) “yet,” she hoped. “In my everyday life I don’t wear fancy stuff. I just bought my first pair of Christian Louboutin boots – suede knee highs,” she fussed as I imagined their fabulousity in my own mind.

“I wear normal clothes just like everyone

”

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UNDERCOVER

TopShop black beaded cami Tocca high waisted wool black pleated shorts Badgley Mischka black espadrille platform Vintage YSL black belt Lulu Frost jewelry Eaburns multi chain bracelet

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UNDERCOVER Jeweled headband BCBG Lulu Frost necklace multi chain Berliner Black long lace dress Cosabella red underwear & bra Giuseppe Zanotti black pumps with zipper flower Bare gold cuff by Giuseppe Zanotti

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MANIAC music

YOUNG THE GIANT

“My body tells me no, but I won’t quit, cause I want more.” b y D o minic J ani da s

P h o t o g r ap h y B y P i e t e r M . van Hat t e m

Those entrancing lyrics in an infectious chorus alone have hooked thousands upon thousands on Young The Giant. Since the group’s self-titled debut record hit the rock scene in late 2010, the guys of Young The Giant have been unstoppable, capturing Amazon.com’s No. 3 spot in its Best Rock Albums of 2010.

The alternative/indie band has definitely released a rock album by definition, yet the best way to describe the overall sound and feel is “passionately eclectic.” Payam Doostzadeh, a bass player for Young The Giant, weighed in on the music. “For lack of better words, everyone says ‘Californiainspired indie rock,’ but every song is a little bit different. It’s really hard to describe,” he said. “As long as you are feeling or emoting something, then we are doing our job.”

The first three singles off the record, “My Body,” “Apartment” and “Cough Syrup,” suck listeners in as they are heard on the radio. But it’s the standout tracks like “St. Walker,” “Islands” and “Guns Out” that not only show the band’s ridiculous diversity of style and honed writing abilities, but also a maturity of sound and message that negates the very first part of their band 20

name.

“We aren’t corporate bland indie rock.

That’s not what we are,” Doostzadeh explained. “We are really trying to do something a little different. We have our own voice. People will definitely start to recognize that [even more] after the next record.”

While the band might still be up-andcomers (for now), Young The Giant has been able to add some amazing credentials to their resume. The band has performed on Jimmy Kimmel and Jay Leno, and at Jools Holland in the United Kingdom, SXSW Festival, Sasquatch Music Festival, and at MTV’s 2011 Video Music Awards. These big-named performances coupled with hitting the road for about a year and a half, is part of what makes the band a powerhouse and a soon-to-be household name.

Doostzadeh explained one of their television performances in a little more in depth. “Jools Holland in the UK was amazing and incredible. It’s a big circle of bands,” he said. “The lineup was us, Adele, James Blake, R. Kelly and Metronomy.

Everyone is set up in a circle and everyone picks one song to perform while everyone

else is watching. It was really cool.”

If your name is mentioned in the same sentence as Adele and James Blake, it’s safe to say you’re fairing pretty well. You could hear the humble smile in Doostzadeh’s voice as he listed the names of other musicians, which translated into gratefulness for being mentioned amongst the likes of other fantastic artists.

After playing the grandiose VMAs, which Doostzadeh described as, “the most ridiculous thing on T.V. with the most ridiculous audience,” the band is hitting the road again while continuing work on their second record. Touring is one of their favorite things to do as a band. “The most exciting thing about going on tour is meeting the people, ranging from the South and North East to Indonesia, and the experience,” Doostzadeh said. “People, culture and food, I guess, all mesh together.”

Young the Giant fans are all anxious to see these guys play live again. There is a certain energy, a raw power, which takes over the band, manufacturing more influential, exciting and moving songs.

The band’s second album cannot drop soon enough for fans. The music itself translates to many different types of music enthusiasts, and no matter what language you speak, lead singer Sameer Gadhia’s vocals know no bounds when getting the message across. His talent as a singer and front man for the band is flawless, making him one of the few male rock vocalists with such an incredible range.

After prying a little here and there about a new album, Doostzadeh hinted at new songs and some stylistic experimentation. “[The next album] might be a little more electric,” he said. “At this point I’m just really excited to keep writing new stuff and branching out into different genres and really showing people that we are more eclectic than they think.”

It’s going to take a lot more than a slingshot to knock Young The Giant from the top. There is so much excitement and buzz swirling around rock’s latest and greatest, with their killer singles that drive fans to blow out their speakers and diverse album tracks. The band has all the right makings for rock history. All we can do now is sit back and listen.

For more information about Young The Giant, visit their website at www.youngthegiant.com. Their debut album, Young The Giant, is available on iTunes.

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MANIAC music

S

22

o many view this as an American dream.

Who wouldn’t want countless beautiful women throwing themselves at you, screaming your name, partying until the break of dawn and trashing hotel rooms? It’s all part of the rock star lifestyle and persona that most men would kill to have. However, not all rock stars have to kill themselves (or their careers) to be badass. Sometimes it just happens naturally. For the All-American Rejects’ front man, Tyson Ritter, being a badass musician comes with every breath inhaled and every note sung.

“It takes ten years to figure it out,” Ritter divulged some words of wisdom his tattoo artist friend gave him once about life and anything creative. It just so happens that 2012 marks All-American Rejects’ ten-year anniversary. “This is our ten year mark. I think we finally figured out how to speak as a band for people to remember us.”

All American Rejects have been garnering fans since the debut of their selftitled record in 2003 with hits over the years like “Dirty Little Secret,” “Move Along,” “I Wanna” and “Gives You Hell.” Their music has satisfied every guy’s craving to live like a rock star with a soundtrack to their lives. The All-American Rejects have been a rock staple for the past decade, and they are back and better than ever, with a new album set to tentatively drop at the end of March.

Kids In The Street will be the fourth full-length studio album for the band, and after a three year writing and soul searching hiatus, they are back to take the reigns once more with a more mature, grownup and experienced sound. Ritter put a magnifying glass over the very foundation of the new record: “I went to a really dark place for a while. It was sort of living in that darkness and realizing that I had not grown up in nine years of being on the road, and it all hit me at once. I completely cleaned house with my entire house. I started at the ground floor and stood up at the end of it, and now this record, Kids In The Street, is this autobiographical journey through falling down and realizing you have to do so to stand up.” He has been through a lot in 10 years with the band he started before he even graduated high school. But, with a new record, a new attitude, and a new outlook on life, the All-American Rejects are ready for the next ten.

Being a musician and citizen of the

world can be hard work, even if you’re a member of All-American Rejects. For Ritter, it was certainly that. He remarked that, “The best (and worst) part of the rock star lifestyle - punching no clocks - a gift and a curse.” But in the end, it helped produce what will be some amazingly powerful songs for Kids In The Street. “So ‘Beekeeper’s Daughter’ is the first single, and that’s sort of the moment we started to write… and I was not myself. I was out of my mind. I was cocky. I was bulletproof…Nothing could stop me. So that song, I sort of think

All American Rejects Sex, drugs, and rock and roll.

B y D o m inc J ani da s P h o t o g r ap h y B y M I C H A EL S C H WA RT Z

of it as the asshole of the record.” Tyson shared, “The band had three years to write a record that had to prove itself in a totally different way than we have before. I think we have done that.” Much anticipation for Kids In The Street hovers around maturity of sound and overall progression of the band after three years. On that progression, Tyson commented, “We challenge ourselves with writing now.”

One of the standout tracks from the new album, and coincidentally Tyson’s favorite off Kids, is a ballad called “Heartbeat Slowing Down.” “It’s this crazy trip. It’s pretty much a big apology of a song. The song itself is so powerful…I got a lot of my demons exercised on this album. We songwriters are self-deprecating dickheads.

We wallow. If you’re an artist and you’re happy all the time, you’re probably full of shit,” explained Tyson.

AAR is hitting the road on a tour coming up as well with the release and promotion of the fourth album. Tyson explained that it’s going to be an intimate club run, but the fans are really going to dig the new material. Like

most true musicians, performing passionate and personal songs on stage is home to the band, especially Tyson who said, “There’s nothing in my life that I don’t think about, or don’t over think. When I’m on stage I don’t think. Being on stage is the only place I feel like I have purpose sometimes.” He and the band love to connect with a crowd and when he spoke of performing, the passion translated immensely. “Concerts are my church,” he proclaimed.

Amongst all the craziness of the music business and developing into a much more honed and mature artist, and even acting (as seen in “House Bunny” among many other smaller roles) Tyson still finds time to give back to charity movements like Don’t Hate on Haiti (http://donthateonhaiti.org/), a charitable organization that he started to help raise money for the Haitian relief efforts. It’s things like that that make his hardened, rocker image look matured, wise, and gracious.

Expect continued greatness from the All-American Rejects in 2012. Their new album, Kids In The Street, is sure to impress, marking a whole new age for the decade-old band. Lead singer and bass player, Tyson Ritter, joked about the new album’s style, “It’s full-bodied. It has some age to it!” And so begins another chapter in the life and times of a rock star who rises and falls in life’s journey can be experienced through song…and maybe a trashed hotel room or two.

WHEN CHEF ANDREW SEES A TOMATO HE DOESN’T LIKE,

WELL, YOU DON’T WANT TO KNOW. Our chef is a stickler for freshness.

Heaven help the food that isn’t.

Chef Andrew has his rules and that’s that: #3 Only the best ingredients – we buy local #22 Taste everything before we serve it #37 Proud of everything we serve

Three PNC Plaza, Corner of Market and Fifth, 2nd Floor 412 773 8848

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23

MANIAC q&a

Seamus Dever

King of the Castle: Seamus Dever shines on ABC’s Castle

Seamus Dever may be the perfect man. Not only is he a highly motivated regular television actor on the hit ABC show, Castle, but he also finds time to do charity work and stay active by running and practicing yoga. Maniac sat down with this upand-coming star to talk about the show, his future plans and, of course, Pittsburgh.

BY A l icia M cE l h an e y

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P h o t o g r ap h y b y Dana Pat r ick

Q&A MM: First and foremost, how was your trip to Australia?

Seamus: I ended up getting sick. It’s weird going on vacation and forcing yourself to do stuff while you’re sick. But other than that, it was really nice.

MM: Were you there on business or leisure?

Seamus: I was there traveling, and I did a couple fan events. We have a lot of Australian fans, which I hadn’t expected. It was fun.

MM: Okay, so let’s talk about your show Castle: What can viewers expect in the upcoming season?

Seamus: By then, my character will already be married. I wish I knew more about the rest of the season, but unfortunately I don’t know much. We have a two-part episode coming up with Jennifer Beals, who is going to play a federal agent. We also have a really fun episode that we’re shooting now that is filmed live, which was neat. We got to play characters from the 1940s - I play an Irish gangster, so I get to show off my Irish accent. That’ll air probably in early February. The rest of the stuff I have no idea.

MM: How far in advance are you filming for these shows?

Seamus: Right now, we’re three weeks in advance. It’s the nature of the process that we start filming in the middle of July for episodes in September, as there is always a lot of editing involved, but we kind of jump around with filming.

MM: Why did you decide to do Castle?

What drew you to it?

Seamus: What I liked about it was that it’s a crime show, but you know, there’s so many crime shows on TV now. I always wanted to play a detective - it was sort of a goal I had for a few years. I have played a lot of bad guys, but they always get sent to jail or killed off, and I wanted something steady.

And what I liked about Castle is that it has humor. Not to knock on other shows, but they get so stuck on being a procedural cop show that they don’t allow themselves to have fun. But then you take a show like NCIS, where they have a lot of fun with each other, and you know, a lot of people watch it for the relationships and how people interact, rather than just the mystery that everyone has to solve. So that’s what I like about Castle - it has a sense of humor.

MM: Do you see yourself staying with Castle for a while? What else might the future hold

for you?

Seamus: Well I’m with the show until it’s done. Unless they decide to do something ridiculous like kill my character or something, which they would never do. I’m there for the duration of the show - I’m one of four regular characters on, so I’ll be there until the end.

MM: Would you consider doing more film or stage projects?

Seamus: Oh yeah, I grew up doing theatre and I went to Carnegie Mellon, so you know, theatre is in my blood, and I try to go back to it every once in a while when I can. It gets hard with our production schedule. I got to do a production of King Lear about two years ago. It was fun to get back on stage. And we’re always trying to fit in movies during

“

In my wildest dreams, I never thought it could happen. I try to remember how special it is and how lucky I am to be doing this with my life.

”

our hiatus. I have about three months off, a lot of actors have six months off or so if they are on cable, which makes it easy to figure out a movie. Our hiatus has to fit things in perfectly if you want to do a movie. You know, last hiatus I just worked on my house.

I’d love to do some films and I think I have a couple of opportunities for this hiatus, so we’ll just have to see. Some people have approached me about some feature things, those are sort of in the works.

MM: So I’m sure you know that Maniac is based in Pittsburgh, where you attended grad school. How did the city influence your work?

Seamus: I lived like a hermit when I lived in Pittsburgh. I lived in a basement apartment in Squirrel Hill. There was a big four story apartment right on Forbes that I lived in, and I had the whole basement to myself, but

I didn’t even really have windows, so I lived like a hermit. Which was good. I like to think of myself as an acting hermit, like a monk in those years. I got a lot of working done, I read books that had been on my list for like ten years and I didn’t even have a television.

Movies came and went, television shows came and went, songs came on the radio that I never heard of. It was sort of like a gap in my life, because all I was doing was going to school from 9-11. So my experience in Pittsburgh was sort of like that - this was where I learned my craft. I feel like that Pittsburgh sort of influenced that. It was great, I loved living in Pittsburgh, I wish I would have lived in Shadyside, but I lived in Squirrel Hill. The whole Murray Ave thing is awesome - I spent a lot of time walking down there, which was great. I think Pittsburgh reminds me of a time when I was a student. I ate, slept and breathed acting.

MM: What were some of your favorite places in the city?

Seamus: I loved Shadyside. Pittsburgh Deli Company, which was the first place I tried Yuengling on tap. Doc’s Place on Shadyside was good. Silky’s Sports Bar on Murray Ave had the best Reuben sandwich. Even though I’m a vegetarian now, I still remember that Reuben sandwich. Pittsburgh Brew Works, the chapel that they converted into a microbrewery, was very cool. That was the first kind of place like that I had been to. And of course, the “O” down in Oakland, everybody hangs out there. And that Eat n Park on Murray - I don’t know why, but it was great. I guess it was the only place open at three a.m., but I loved it.

MM: How did CMU influence your work?

Seamus: We had some amazing teachers, and they were doing such crazy things, that no other teacher had done before with us.

You were challenged. There was never a point where you were like, I did a really great job, which I think is good for an actor. You were always like, there’s so much to learn.

That made you feel the need to work harder and to progress more. The teachers made you feel that if you worked hard enough, you could figure it out. I think that it was about the teachers. I had some amazing teachers there from Russia. There were classes that you’ll never have anywhere else.

MM: You seem to be a very driven guy, graduating high school as valedictorian, finishing school a year early and continuing 25

Q&A to land big name roles. What motivates you?

Seamus: I look back on what it was like to be a kid and watching television and actors.

What motivates me is that memory, that this is something special. In my wildest dreams, I never thought it could happen. I try to remember how special it is and how lucky I am to be doing this with my life. It helps me appreciate all the relationships I have in my life, and to appreciate the fact that someone wants to tune in and watch me every week.

MM: Besides working, what do enjoy doing in your free time? What are your interests?

Seamus: I do a lot of stuff. I work out a lot.

I ride my bike quite often, which is weird for people in LA, but it’s becoming groovier.

Oh, and I work on my house a lot. I’m into carpentry. I have a house from 1925 that I’m constantly trying to restore some piece of all the time. The side project I’m working on right now is a table from 1905, which needed some TLC, so I’ve been stripping away 100 years of dirt and oil on that. I like yoga a lot, too. I’m a runner, and I thank God that at 35 I can do that kind of thing.

MM: I know you are very into animal rights, being a vegetarian and having two rescue dogs as pets - are there any specific groups you work with on that?

Seamus: I work with a farm rescue group called Farm Sanctuary. They are a great group that takes injured farm animals and place them in one of their five farms. I got involved with it originally because you can adopt a turkey on Thanksgiving to save it from being eaten on that day. My wife and I did that our first year, and have been since.

I work with Best Friends Animal Society, which rescues dogs from fighting. They actually did that National Geographic show, Dogfight, a few years back. We have two rescue dogs from there.

MM: What inspired you to become a vegetarian?

Seamus: My dad was a vegetarian, and has been since 1969, so I grew up knowing that it was possible. Seeing him being so healthy inspired me. I realized that being a vegetarian wasn’t necessarily weird.

Being a vegetarian, you get some people really angry with you. I don’t walk around accusing people of being bad or anything, but sometimes as a vegetarian, you inspire people to be really defensive about eating meat. I felt like if I can live in this world without causing cruelty or harm, then I will do what I can to make that happen.

MM: Where do you see yourself going in the future? More acting, or perhaps something 26

else?

Seamus: I guess I’m going to stay in Castle until it’s done. I see myself in ten years, still on TV, maybe also doing a movie or something. Television today is a lot different than it used to be. The stigma that went with it really isn’t around anymore. People want to watch, so I’m very proud of being a TV actor. So I can see myself maybe having a show of my own eventually. We’ll just have to see.

MM: Is there anything else you want to add?

Seamus: I guess maybe I should mention that my real wife now plays my wife on Castle. It’s a sort of funny relationship that everyone asks about. My character gets to marry my wife, so I get to wear my wedding ring to work each day.

MM: Did you meet her on the show?

Seamus: We knew each other beforehand. I worked a famous film and theater bookstore in Los Angeles, and I met my wife Juliana there in 2002. So we’ve been married for 5 and a half years now. The producers of the show really liked her, so she auditioned a couple of times and got the part. That’s the thing about television - a lot of traditional barriers are broken down between boss and employee - it becomes much more social.

MM: Getting to work with her must be interesting. Does that cause any tension or anything?

Seamus: No, not at all. Because you know, the other thing that happens is that you all end up hanging out socially. So we got together on New Year’s Eve, and everything.

We’re very social with other cast members, so when Julie shows up to work, it’s like we’re all hanging out. I think it’s a really different dynamic. It sort of makes me relax cause we can all cut up and have a good time.

MM: That must allow you to have a lot of chemistry on the show then.

Seamus: Yeah, it’s good. When you’re having fun at work or enjoying it, you’re probably going to do better. There may be exceptions to that rule, but I think that with acting, you’re going to do so much better and maybe some cool stuff will come out of it.

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27

MANIAC style

style profile

bi-coastal bombshell

Pamelyn McMahon is the epitome of success; crazy- smart, oozing with creativity and stunningly beautiful.

BY N ic o l e W i d d o w s o n

28

M A K EU P BY K at h e r in e REEL

p h o t o g r ap h y BY A p r i l H u b a l

She’s the girl we desperately want to hate though we can’t help but love her.

This bi-coastal beauty was born and raised in the steel city. At an early age, her mother and father realized they had an extraordinary child on their hands. It was apparent that she was an old soul with an ambition that was hard to control. She was swimming before she could even walk and she would rather listen in on the adult conversations than play with Barbie dolls.

A tiny glimpse into what her life would be like as an adult: well beyond her years and exceeding everyone’s expectations.

Always determined to get what she wants, Pamelyn started working at 12 years old so she had enough money to shop at 5-7-9 and Scribbles at Century III Mall, knowing that Hills Department Store was not her fashion destiny! Although an athlete by nature, she was able to balance her inner tomboy with her creative fashion sense to put together outfits that made her stand out. A Homestead native, she attended Steel Valley High School where she played center midfield on the girl’s soccer team, was voted Best Dressed her senior year and was named Homecoming Queen. She was paving the way to an exciting future.

“

STYLE

It’s about waking up every day and loving what you do.

It does not have to be complicated. A simple, beautiful life, that’s it!

”

Always aware of her natural talents, she knew immediately what she wanted to do following graduation. “It is so raremost people do not have any idea what they are going to do after high school, but I always knew. I was “Miss Planner”: fashion shows, prom, homecoming, you name it. I was always planning something.”

After graduation, enrolling at Duquesne University was an easy decision, and it is where she received a Bachelors Degree in Corporate Communications and an MBA in Marketing. Pamelyn also owns a boutique advertising agency.

For nearly 10 years, Pameyln has been the mastermind behind the success of countless high-profile parties, events and marketing initiatives at the South Side Works. Often referred to as a lifestyle center, the $300 million complex opened in 2002 and offers more than 34 acres of shops, restaurants, hotels, offices and a luxury cinema. “It is truly a city within a city. It is an amazing place. There’s nothing else like it here!” She exudes excitement and adoration about her career, but admits that the marketing industry is extremely subjective. She attributes her success to being true to herself and what she believes is right. She notes that all of her events are held in conjunction with a charitable organization and is passionate about giving back. Always looking for a new creative outlet and working on the next “big thing,” she also owns her own boutique ad agency with clients all over the globe.

Living on both the west and east coast, she insists she has the best of both worlds.

While she adores the laid back feel of LA, this MANIAC will always be a Pittsburgh girl at heart. “People who aren’t from here don’t

really understand, but I love every minute of it. I have been all over the world, but Pittsburgh is a unique place. I can’t imagine not living here.”

Jetting back and forth from Pittsburgh to Los Angeles and looking absolutely fabulous, Pamelyn describes her style as ultra-feminine with a rocker edge. Her approach is synonymous with life in the Burgh & LA: classic and basic with crazy flair. Most days, she can be seen donning her favorite purple leather jacket- a staple in her wardrobe. “It’s so versatile- a piece I can wear with anything. I can put it over a sequin dress for a night out, or throw it on with a pair of skinny jeans and it pulls it all together!” She loves Jennifer Anniston’s style. We are sure Jen would say the same about her.

When she’s not planning her next move in the marketing world, she is visiting her friends in her beloved hometown. “When I am here, I don’t go out. I do what I refer to as, the circuit. I visit all of my friends and their babies. I love it. I get my fix for the nightlife when I am out west.” As she plans her summer wedding in Bora Bora, she has dreams of becoming a mom herself one day soon and providing her children with the same small town upbringing that she had.

She plans to work and continue to make a difference. “It’s about waking up every day and loving what you do. It does not have to be complicated. A simple, beautiful life, that’s it!”

A force to be reckoned with, Pamelyn McMahon is living the dream, and there is no limit to what she can and will achieve.

Whether she is a mother, a wife, marketing guru or a fabulous fashionista, she will continue to triumph.

29

JP

’ADORE aris P h o t o g r ap h y b y La r a F e r r i &

L u ca N o c e r a / S t y l e d b y E t i e nn e J e an s o n

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FASHION

Salmon cardigan by Xuan Thu Nguyen, Silver dress by Fatima Lopes, White fringe dress by Valentine Gauthier, White lace skirt by Red Valentino, Beltby Daneh

31

FASHION

Fringe leather jacket by Augustin Teboul, Lace dress by Eymerci Francois Couture, Legging by Malene Birger

32

FASHION

Leather fringe top by Jitrois, Crochet belt by Paule Ka, Trousers with silk flowers by Etienne Jeanson, Lace dress by Eymeric Francois Couture

33

FASHION

Fur Jacket by Red Valentino, Fringe bodysuit

by Electric Ibiza (At Mise En Cage), Trousers by Valentine Gauthier, Shoes by Christian Louboutin, Gloves by Minna Parikka, Bracelet by Kiss Me Honey, PP From Longwy, Headband by Osklen

34

FASHION

Leather fringe top by Jitrois, Crochet belt by Paule Ka, Trousers with silk flowers by Etienne Jeanson, Lace dress by Eymeric Francois Couture

35

FASHION

Gold knit top by Charlotte Mullor, Embroided fishnet by Etienne Jeanson, Lace high boots pantyhose by Chantal Thomass, Short by Red Valentino, Hat by Osklen, Bracelet by Kiss Me Honey Pp From Longwy, Rings by Marc Deloche

36

FASHION

Fur Jacket by Red Valentino, Fringe bodysuit by Electric Ibiza (At Mise En Cage), Gloves by Minna Parikka, Bracelet by Kiss Me Honey, PP From Longwy, Headband by Osklen

37

FASHION

Cape by Paule Ka, Dress by Josep Font, Pants gold by Nina Naustdal, Shoes by Harry Halim, Necklace by Harry Halim

38

MANIAC loves

dogs we can stuff into a play area” she said.

Dogs are divided into small and manageable playgroups based on the dog’s size, temperament and age. The dogs are usually kept indoors, though they are walked several times a day in a large grass area maintained next to the building.

“Starting off the day in their normal playgroup, dogs quickly socialize and seem to catch up on things that have occurred A dam M i l l i ro n since the last time they were together,” Chirico said. “Playtime starts and the dogs begin to enjoy getting rid of the excess energy they seemed to have stored.”

After playtime, the dogs are taken on periodic walks and eventually separated into even smaller groups to wind down for a while.

“By the time the owner returns for pickup, the dogs are relaxed and ready to focus on giving their undisturbed attention and unconditional love,” Chirico said.

Owners can also choose to give their pets special spa treatments, which include a blueberry facial, a hot oil massage or a Dead Sea calming mud treatment. Though it may sound a bit extravagant for a dog at first, these treatments clean and even relax dogs.

“There was recently a boxer who came

URban dog

The Dog Days Are Over B y A l icia M cE l h an e y

P h o t o g r ap h y B y

Owning a dog in the city is difficult.

Never mind finding a landlord who will let you keep your pup, the real hurdle is finding a place for your pooch to run freely during the day. Have no fear Fido, Urban Dog is here with its new, hip doggy daycare and spa located in Lawrenceville.

Urban Dog appeals to professionals who work long hours, as well as those living in the city with limited yard space. It provides customers with an area for their dogs to play and roam freely. Since its opening in November, the business is thriving, housing approximately 25 dogs per day.

Sarah Chirico, one of the daycare’s founders, hopes pets and their owners enjoy the new facility and its features. “Our goal is to provide a safe, clean, fun environment for the dog, rather than seeing how many

in for a stress relief mud bath who had just lost her companion dog,” Chirico specified.

“She was so scared and stressed when she arrived, but after the treatment she was visibly more relaxed and happy.”

Even if you opt out of one of the special treatments, you can rest assured your pooch is in good hands. Each Urban Dog staff member is required to have five years of experience in kennels or daycares before they are even considered in the hiring process. The staff members are required to be up-to-date on Red Cross First Aid and pet CPR. In addition, employees go through rigorous training before they begin working at the center.

“We are very particular as to who we hire and take it very seriously,” explained Chirico. “Dogs are not simply a pet, they are an immediate extension of our family and are more like ‘children.’”

It is the idea dogs are more like family that allows Urban Dog to not only work, but to succeed. Rather than leaving pets home, where they can suffer from stress and separation anxiety, owners can show them a little love by bringing them to Urban Dog. The social aspect of Urban Dog is also an attractive feature. The space allows dogs to interact with one another, an opportunity not every city dog gets.

Chirico feels socialization is a necessary aspect of a dog’s life. “Dogs are pack animals and need to continually socialize with other dogs for maximum mental health,” she said.

“Without this, they can quickly become withdrawn and anti-social to other dogs and even humans.”

Urban Dog offers specialized indoor play on Sundays, when an owner can bring his or her dog to the center and set them free for a few hours. Dogs appreciate this extra time to exercise, especially during the long winter months. Dog owners also have the opportunity to befriend other dog owners (and their pups too).

Urban Dog’s success can no doubt be credited to the founders’ hard work, time and effort.

“We couldn’t be happier with the response,” Chirico said. “Our customers seem to be extremely satisfied. It is very rewarding to see all of our hard work and dedication finally paying off.”

For more information on Urban Dog Doggy Daycare and Day Spa, visit www. urbandogusa.com.

39

Creating

PROVI DENCE Your Style from First Dates to Final Interviews

B y Hi l a ry Ru s h f o r d P h o t o g r ap h y B y B e n Sp e l l & B e s s F r i day

After hitting the snooze button three times, you finally get up and stare at your closet for a full two minutes without even reaching for a shirt or a pair of pants.

Chances are, you try on and discard four different outfits before settling on your first choice and dash out of the house fifteen minutes late. You are horrified with your wardrobe choice when you hop in the elevator and stand next to a massively hot guy, who must have just been hired yesterday. You think to yourself, “Seriously, THIS is what I’m wearing?!”

40

FEATURE fashion

41

FEATURE

Ah style, how it matters. It starts when our feet hit the floor in the morning.

We have to navigate our bulging wardrobes to make critical clothing decisions. It continues when we have to face not only the mirror, but the voices in our head, our curves and our insecurities. And it culminates when we lock eyes and shake hands with a blind date or the vice president of the dream job, knowing inevitably we are being judged based on what we look like. Not necessarily in a judgmental way, but our peers are picking up on our visual cues, noticing whether we appear conservative, creative or confident. The truth is style is not about fashion, trends, consumerism or cash flow. It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s about showing off the best version of ourselves, our personal brand and the way we show up in the world and announce how we’d like to be seen. So how the hell do we that?

I’m delighted you asked.

STYLIST TIP Close your laptop, pour a cup of tea and give yourself some time to daydream.

Then call your best friend and speak your dreams aloud. Once you know what you want, surround yourself with visuals that remind you, like the Anthropologie mug on your desk or the magazine clipping tucked in your journal or the post-it note motto on your mirror.

And before you spend money on clothes and bring more things into your home, check to make sure these pieces will bring you closer to the woman you want to be.

42

DATING TIP Let go of the list of qualities you want your dream guy to have. How do you want him to make you feel? Feminine, confident, spontaneous? Dress as the kind of woman you want to be, an even more kickass version of yourself when you’ve got his wind in your sails.

2

1

Let’s start with your wardrobe. Place a ribbon at the back of your closet, a record album beneath each stack of jeans and a cotton ball in each pair of shoes. As you wear items, put them behind the ribbon, beneath the album and remove the cotton ball. Challenge yourself each day to dress from the things you haven’t worn. You have six weeks and then it’s time to clear the clutter and get real about what’s not getting worn and why.

STYLIST TIP Keep a pad of paper in your closet. Write notes as you inevitably think, “Gah, I need a black skinny belt,” or “If I had a navy tank, I could wear this to work.”

This is your Wish List.

The next time you shop, buy only things that will compliment the wardrobe you already have and get those yet-unworn pieces out into the real world.

DATING TIP

FEATURE

Now, let’s have an honest chat with the mirror: Mirror mirror on the wall, what flatters me the most of all? Not clingy jersey dresses because you don’t have perfectly flat abs? No worries. You’re just not a jersey girl. But skinny pants on those little legs? Yes please. No more wide-leg trousers for you, no matter how “trendy” they are, because you look more bangin’ in slim cut pants. If you’re not sure what works, the answer lies in what’s behind the ribbon and in front, which styles flatter you versus the items in your closet that don’t accentuate your figure. Take some time to analyze both so you make smarter choices in the dressing room and at the cash register.

You are no longer the hot mess who sprints into a date late, spewing apologies. You are calm, cool and collected as you breezily arrive promptly, looking chic and crush-worthy.

3

Finally, figure out who you are and where exactly it is that you are going. What do you want your life to look like three years from now? Don’t be afraid to dream big. Do you want to get promoted to vice president of your company one day? Start dressing in power suits today, even though the other assistants wear cardigans. Do you dream about moving to Paris for three months to write a book? Make sure you have chic, comfy clothes that make your friends exclaim over brunch, “You look like such a Parisian writer!” Do you not-so-secretly want to marry a gorgeous man? Whether you’re wearing boyfriend jeans or a pencil skirt, always leave the house confident to flirt in line for coffee and always hope to be seen. My point is, you must dress for the life you want.

43

FEATURE

I believe in providence, destiny, and a best path for our lives. I also believe in free will, owning it and God or the universe giving us bright minds to do bold things. Whether you want to fall in love with a man you have yet to meet, fall more in love with the partner already by your side, or fall madly in love with yourself and all the brilliant things you are going to accomplish in the world, dress for the life you want. Only you know if that outfit includes a soft, drapey plum sweater or sexy, ruby-red heels.

Ignore the trends for 2012. The most beautiful thing you can wear is what represents the phenomenal you in 2015.

DATING TIP Pay attention to the compliments guys give you on your body and style. Do they praise your great bum? Or do they say, “You look gorgeous” when you’re in bright blue?

Listen to the gents in your life and play those features up!

Hilary Rushford is a personal stylist for “real people with real budgets” at Dean Street Society and curates the style blog {bow ties & bettys}.

Get on her weekly newsletter with advice, exercises and inspiration through photos and videos at www.DeanStreetSociety.com. Follow her on Twitter @HilaryRushford.

44

STYLIST TIP Need some perspective?

Hop on Pinterest and style blogs to seek out women who share your shape and coloring. What styles are they wearing, and do you find these styles flattering?

If you see any cute outfits that remind you of pieces you already own, but hadn’t thought to pair together, start your own Pinterest board and keep track of these images for morning inspiration when you can’t think of anything to wear.

THE BUTTER RING GOES BRIDAL

TM

5413 Walnut Street, Shadyside, Pittsburgh | 41 2 . 6 2 1 .03 4 5 | c a e s a r s d e s i g n s .co m

45

MANIAC shops

SEXY

Garterslip victoriassecret.com

Crushed Velvet Cutout Heart Dress us.topshop.com

Outright Amity Dress modcloth.com

Matte Russian Red Lipstick maccosmetics.com

SASSY

Glam Underground us.topshop.com

Pink Bracelet noirjewelry.com

Red Swarovski Lips swarovski.com

46

Red Bra & Knickers us.topshop.com

Gorgeous Push Up Bra & Matching Hiphugger victoriassecret.com

Gorgeous Push Up Bra & Matching Garter victoriassecret.com

Red Crackle Nailpolish sallyhansen.com

Heart Tights by Yves Saint Laurent net-a-porter.com

Red Crop Leather Trousers us.topshop.com

SHOPS Warm My Heart Tea Infuser modcloth.com

Gleam Lover Bra and Short modcloth.com

Sweet Love Tea us.kusmitea.com

Blue Sapphire and Diamonds on Silver Necklace annadorotheadesigns.com Sequin Hearts Jumper us.topshop.com

Let Go Tee modcloth.com Vintage Heart of Blue Scarf modcloth.com

SWEET Heart of the Matter Flat in Charcoal modcloth.com

Bold Ballerina us.topshop.com

Chain Link Necklace by Patricia Brown intermixonline.com Love Notes, Vouchers for Lovers, True Love Medal knockknockstuff.com

Lips Pin alexisbittar.com

P ro d u c t S e l e c t i o n s b y: J e nni f e r K . M cG l inc y, E d i t o r C o l in T. M cD o na l d, S t y l e E x p e rt

Colin T. McDonald is a celebrity stylist and commentator. He’s quickly growing into one of the industries go-to people when it comes to any of your fashion emergencies. Along with being a stylist, he comments daily for many highly noted critics both on and off the red carpet. Still finding time, he is a fashion consultant for top and emerging brands lending them his eye and expertise. You can follow Colin online at www.colintmcdonald.com or Twitter @styleexpert00.

47

MANIAC art

brooklyn museum PRESENTS

Keith Haring 1978-1982 On View 3/16-6/8, 2012

BY J e nni f e r K . M cG l inc y

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I ma g e s p rov i d e d b y B ro o k ly n M u s e u m

Among a handful of truly idealized pop artists that define the genre, Keith Haring is known for changing the landscape with his work that responded to the New York City street culture of the 1980’s. Born in Reading, Pennsylvania, Haring’s art and social activism made him a force to be reckoned with, and his images iconic.

From his first recognized pieces of pop art that included chalk drawings in the subway of New York, to the “Radiant Baby” that became his symbol, Haring’s expansive body of work has been studied, adored and emulated by millions. A carefully curated exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum explores the earliest stages of Haring’s career.

Beginning March 16 through July 8, 2012, the Brooklyn Museum presents the first large-scale exhibition to explore Haring’s early career. Tracing the development of the artist’s extraordinary visual vocabulary, the exhibition includes 155 works on paper, seven experimental videos, and over 150 archival objects, among them rarely seen sketchbooks, journals, exhibition flyers, posters, subway drawings, and documentary photographs.

“We are delighted to have this exceptional opportunity to present this groundbreaking exhibition of these dynamic works created by one of the most iconic and innovative artists of the late twentieth century as his formidable talents emerged,” comments Brooklyn Museum Director Arnold L. Lehman. “The works of art

ART

“ ”

and the accompanying documentary material place in new perspective the development of this unique talent.”

The exhibition chronicles the period in Haring’s career from the time he left his home in Pennsylvania to attend New York School of Visual Arts through the development of his style and includes his relationship with some of the most innovative musicians, poets, performance artists and writers of the period.

Included in Keith Haring: 1978-1982 are a number of very early works that had previously never before been seen in public, twenty-five red gouache works on paper of geometric forms assembled in various combinations to create patterns; seven video pieces, including his very first, Haring Paints Himself into a Corner, in which he paints to the music of the band Devo, and Tribute to Gloria Vanderbilt; and collages created from cutup fragments of his own writing, history textbooks, and newspapers that closely relate to collage flyers he created with a photocopy machine.

Keith Haring died in 1990 from AIDS-related complications. His goal of creating art for everyone has inspired the contemporary practice of street art, and his influence may be seen in the work of artists such as Banksy, Barry McGee, Shepard Fairey, and SWOON, as well as in fashion, product design, and in the numerous remaining public murals that he created around the world.

49

MANIAC events

MANIAC’s 50’s Style Winter Party For the launch of the December/January issue of Maniac, we set the dial on our time-travel machine to the 1950’s, and we were transported back to a time of poodle skirts, rebels with and without causes, and upturned, horn-rimmed librarian glasses. The charming and drop-dead-gorgeous Maria Menounos graced the cover of our latest issue, The Dog Issue, and we celebrated in true throwback glory and style at one of our favorite downtown spots, Taste of Dahntahn on December 15, 2011.

B y D o minic J ani da s

p h o t o g r ap h y b y Bi l l Sc h mi t t

A wonderfully intimate setting nestled in the heart of downtown; there wasn’t a better place to party with all of our lovely readers than Taste of Dahntahn. With great food, amazing music, and a fun setting, we partied and danced the night away. Taste of Dahntahn even provided special Maniac drinks made just for us, and, of course, the food was outstanding. The sliders are a must-try.

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To any passersby, it must have looked like something straight out of old Hollywood. All the camera lights flashing as one amazingly dressed guest after another strolled through the front door, adding to the already packed houseupwards of 200 strong! I was lucky enough to hang with the beautiful and glamorous Danley ladies (Chelsea and Marilyn) for a portion of the evening, and they were certainly among the best dressed; I felt much more stylish by association.

Never a bad thing!Maniac continues to grow as a direct result of the feedback we receive on our issue in addition to the enthusiasm that is displayed at every issue launch party.

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MANIAC events Dawn P ru e t t, M e g an Wa l s h

Dav e S ta d l e r , B o b En g e l

C HEF

S h a ro n S ta d l e r , M at t S ta d l e r

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B e v in M u r p h y, M a r l e n e M c M a h o n

H e at h e r G l a s e r , C r i b s f o r K i d s E v e n t C o o r d inat o r

J im an d J u dy S ta l d e r

J im S ta d l e r ( h o n o r e e ) , S h a ro n Z h e x i

M a ry Z appa l a , S t e v e Z appa l a

Da r i e t h C h i s o l m , A r n o l d Ta r p l e y

A Diamond Gala Event Maniac recently got the chance to hang out with the crew from Lexus of North Hills for the 4th annual Diamond Gala event.

Jim and Judy Stalder were honored on Saturday, Dec. 3 at the dealership in Wexford. Lexus Vice President and general manager, Kevin Mullen hosted the event.

By April hubal

p h o t o g r ap h y b y M at t h e w S h u ck

This black-tie event took place in an elegantly decorated venue at Lexus of North Hills. Guests were delighted by the decadent menu of hors d’oeuvres from Yes We Cater, deserts from Sugar Cafe and enjoyed an open bar. Emceed by Darieth Chiisolm, the night included a silent auction, music by Vida Lisa Malcanas, dancing, and a champagne and diamonds table that created plenty of excitement throughout the room as diamonds valued at thousands of dollars were won by several fortunate guests.

Tickets were $100 and proceeds benefited Cribs for Kids, founded in 1998 by District Attorney Stephen Zapata, the late Bob O’Connor and SIDS of PA executive director, Judith Bannon to reduce fatalities from sudden infant death syndrome.

A p r i l H u b a l , K e v in M u l l e n

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D e b o r a h S ta d l e r En g e l , M e l i s s a S ta d l e r

MANIAC events

Next Big Thing

Urban Canvas Promises Pittsburgh Change Something huge is coming to Pittsburgh. No, it’s not another film production creating more traffic on the Parkway. And shockingly, it’s not another championship-winning sports team. In fact, the next big thing is a concept completely new to Pittsburghers, but it may become just as popular and community-driven as our beloved black and gold franchises. This new, ground-breaking notion is known as Urban Canvas.

BY A l icia M cE l h an e y

p h o t o g r ap h y b y T o b i M akin d e

Urban Canvas is an event group that works to pair local artists of all kinds with non-profit organizations and nationally known groups to host several events throughout the year.

Thomas Jamison, the project’s founder, explained what the latest project to hit the city is all about. “We take opportunities where people would seek out entertainment and art on a regular basis, and use that as an opportunity to align them with a good cause,” he explained. “We look to empower artists and give them a broader fan base, as well as raise awareness for non-profit programs.”

Urban Canvas organizes four different types of events in order to showcase its unique idea.

The first pairs a local film student with a non-profit organization to create a sort of movie trailer. This trailer would eventually air at a screening of a nationally or even internationally known film, thus providing both the artist and the organization face time.

Another event type the group plans to host is a gallery style art exhibition. The event would take place in a vacant commercial property and would feature local visual artists, giving them an opportunity to show their work. The event would also allow the vacant property to benefit, as it gives event-goers the chance to envision what the space could become.

The third is a concert series where local musicians back a nationally acclaimed vocal artist in a show. Rather than bringing their 54

own band, the national artists combine with what will be called the Urban Orchestra to put on a show. Jamison hopes to eventually be able to donate a portion of the proceeds of these types of events to Pittsburgh Public Schools, ultimately benefiting music programs.

The fourth type of event Urban Canvas hopes to promote is known as an underground restaurant or supper club. Much like the pop-up galleries, the underground restaurants are hosted in a vacant property. They provide a place for local guest chefs to create a full meal for customers, showing off their cooking skills.

A portion of these proceeds will be donated to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

“Urban Canvas is unique in that we’re not just giving a non-profit organization cash, we’re putting the resources directly in their hands,” explained Jamison. “Whether it’s manpower or advertising, we can supply it.”

Jamison sees a big future for Urban Canvas. “It won’t just be a party or concert people will show up to,” he said.

“It’s an opportunity for people to come together as a community and support the

different projects everybody has. It makes a comfortable atmosphere for all different types of people to be in the same room and to appreciate art.”

But Urban Canvas isn’t just about community. “It’s about change,” Jamison said. “It gives artists and organizations that need and deserve to be exposed to the public the chance to do so in a very big way.”

The first Urban Canvas event will be held on Friday, March 2, and it will be a gallery event. For more details on the event, visit the project’s website at www. theurbancanvas.org.

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3801 Butler Street, Lawrenceville 412.683.8153 www.jeffreysmithstudio.com

MANIAC fashion

Elizabeth Knight Shining, Armored Accessories

BY J e nni f e r K . M cG l inc y p h o t o g r ap h y BY Sama t h a A l d e r & Hi l l e l D l u g acz

If you’ve ever picked through the pages of Vogue, Marie Claire, Lucky or Nylon and seen a piece of jewelry that made you rabbit ear the page, roll your eyes back and release a guttural longing growl, there’s a chance you’ve come across a piece of Elizabeth Knight Jewelry by emerging designer Elizabeth Thompson.

Upon further examination through a visit to the Elizabeth Knight website, you get lost in truly haunting display of bold pieces – hand cut, hammered and etched – that unearths an inexplicable sense of connection to the materials as if they were part of your past, or, perhaps, a gorgeous foreshadowing of post-apocalyptic fashion.

Thompson, a Philadelphia native, received her BFA from Savannah College of Art and Design, majoring in jewelry with an emphasis on the craft of silversmithing.

This mastery leads itself to completely one-of-a-kind pieces perfect for the unapologetic fashion risk taker. The pieces challenge the idea of conventional beauty while maintaining the integrity of the natural 56

form. “I will always be inspired by natural objects. The simple, structural and intrinsic beauty of these pieces speaks to me. I want my customer to embrace natural beauty and translate that into their lifestyle,” commented Thompson.

Collections include Armor, Dark Horse, Ground, Primitive and Water. The pieces are forged by using materials such etched metal, horsehair, sterling silver, leather and delicate fresh water pearls. Thompson said, “My first two collections, Ground and Water, are sister lines. All the pieces are designed from organic materials - coming from as close as my mothers backyard in South Carolina and as far as Bali, Indonesia. All the work is hand made in Brooklyn, New York.”

The “Frog Pearl Earrings” from the Water Collection are the quintessential statement

piece, guaranteed to create conversation.

“Jewelry is meant to be noticed and be a subject of conversation. For me, behind every special piece of jewelry is a story, a memory, a person, and a place - commonly under some romantic notion. Today my favorite piece of jewelry is a men’s ring I wear on a chain as a necklace. I bought the ring from its maker in Copenhagen.

The artist and his city inspired my latest Armored Line,” explained Thompson.

From her studio in Brooklyn, Thompson continues to explore natural forms and delved deeper into their origins, while admirers, fashion stylists, celebrities and emerging brand loyalists continue to build their collections of Elizabeth Knight Jewelry.

Thompson forecasted, “I want my line to grow with me and I like leaving that open ended. As a designer I experiment with new materials and collaborate with artists from all fields - how that will continue to translate into upcoming projects is for the future to decide.”

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MANIAC beauty

VALEN TINE’s VIXEN B y K at h e r in e R e e l

P h o t o g r ap h y b y A p r i l H u b a l​

Love is in the air and Cupid’s calling.

Whether you’re single or attached, vow to look your best with pink cheeks, flirty lashes and a notice-me, rose-colored pout.

The super cute, heart-patterned Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush in Warm lends a soft, iridescent glow and pop of color to cheeks.

The entire Happy Booster Collection is infused with Happy Skin and Euphoryl, natural plant extracts which have been shown to promote feelings of well-being by mimicking the effect of endorphins. Now that’s technology at its finest!

and apply directly onto your own lashes close to but not touching the lash line.

The next step is to bond the falsies to your real lashes with a coat of mascara.

Now more than ever, there are boundless mascara options to choose from. L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black is a makeup artist’s favorite for ultra-thick and richly dark lashes. If you’re more into length than fatness, MAC Pro Longlash Mascara in Pitch Black yields a long, glossy fan of lashes in a cinch. Its mousse-like formula is clump-free, drama-free and fast drying.

Another one to try is Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes Mascara in Very Black, which makes use of a flake-free gel and pine coneshaped brush that’s tiny enough to grab inner and outer corner lashes.

Create a vibrant, vinyl finish on lips with Rimmel London Stay Glossy six hour Lip Gloss in Fuschia Fever, which features a cotton and silk complex and lip-hugging applicator to sculpt and shape. Wet ‘n Wild Glassy Gloss Lip Gel in Mow The Glass has a sheer apricot hue and deliciously kissable pineapple flavor with jojoba oil for moisturizing, long-lasting shine. ‫‏‬Plagued by frizzy, curly hair or just looking for the perfect blow dry? Nix the frizz with Sexy Hair Power Straight Straightening Balm. Rub a small amount between palms and smooth through hair before blow drying and straightening. This ​p roduct will actually cut down the time it takes you to dry and style your hair, which makes it a great option for date nights.

No face is complete without perfect eyebrows. Keep them in place with Maybelline Great Lash Mascara & Brow Gel in Clear. First, define brows with a coordinating pencil or powder. Blend the color by brushing a spoolie brush up and out, then swipe the brow gel wand up and out. Allow the gel to dry as you would a hair gel; now your brows will stay put all day long.

Amplify the drama of your eyes with falsies. First, curl your lashes with the ever-convenient Japonesque Mini Heated Lash Curler. Andrea PermaLash individual false lash clusters are available in Short, Medium and Long.

While individual lashes require more patience than strip lashes, the effect is incredibly natural, believable and fluffy.

Simply grab a lash cluster with tweezers, dip the end into individual lash adhesive 59

MANIAC profile CAREER MAGIC

Lee Terbosic gets payed to play B y B r i d g e t t e C u nnin g h am

P h o t o g r ap h y B y J o r dan B e ck h am

Lee Terbosic shows up to our interview with a new deck of cards already on the table. He is a self-proclaimed “magedian”, his own word for both comedian and magician, but he’s not a total jokester all the time. Terbosic knows business, he studied it, and he’s practicing those studies. He’s spent the past few years touring the country by entertaining both corporate and campus audiences with his self-written one-man show. “I get to travel the country telling dirty jokes and making things disappear,” he says of his full-time job.

Lee’s interest in magic sparked as a twelve year-old kid at a birthday party. “It was just some dumb local magician,” he recalls. He learned the magician’s card trick after the party and knew that he had the knack. “I was good back then”, Lee says.

“Even as a young Harry Potter, I was never very serious. I just wanted to impress my friends.”

It all started with cards, and that’s where Lee’s act is still rooted. “Cards are so easily recognizable and universal,” he says. He prefers to work small crowds and keep the intimacy that a deck of cards provides. While he does branch out to do straightjacket escapes and bigger scale performances, it’s not where his heart is.

“With cards, all I need are a set of eyes and someone who will pay attention to me.”

It wasn’t just Lee’s card magic and illusion that got him to the point he is today, with his own agent, private bookings and friends asking to see tricks every time he’s walking through his hometown of Pittsburgh. He saw the potential early in his career, and went to Robert Morris University to fuse both business and magic together.

He started writing his own material, taking any theater and graphic design courses he could fit into his schedule on the side. “If I wasn’t a magician, I’d be in one shape or form working in the entertainment industry,” he says. He credits his most valuable advice to his mentor magician, who once told him, 60

“Show business is two words. You might have the show, but you have to find the business.”

Terbosic continues to find the business expanding his social media presence with an upcoming web series titled, “Tricks and Shots” that will feature how-to lessons on simple magic tricks and mixing cocktails. “Magic and booze,” he shrugs as if to say, “Why not?” to my question of the choice to combine the two together. The bar scene fits with Lee’s desire to keep an intimate audience, while the online videos allow Lee to continue to brand himself and work toward his goal to do national television.

Lee often gets asked if he can make wives disappear and he’s even been asked to bring a dog back to life. He doesn’t perform miracles, but he won’t spill his secrets either.

His own tricks from his show won’t be on YouTube in the future. He does tell me this though: “Everything that I say is a lie.” He plays on the fact that people are always making assumptions. He looks at me and says, “Right now you’re assuming that all the cards are faced down. I’m using that information against you.”

While Lee’s magic requires him to bluff, his career is the real deal. He’s done after show tricks for Wiz Khalifa, headlined at the Improv, and hosted his own show at Shop 412 in the Southside. This is just the beginning for Terbosic. Not even thirty years old, he’s constantly working with a network of magicians to learn new material and to expand his show. “The best part of the job is being creative. Having an idea, putting it on paper, and then being able to see it in real life,” he says. “It’s all worth it when I get

the feedback from the audience.” At the end of the day, a job is still a job and Lee’s not so fond of the paperwork and the salesmanship required in laughing off questions that he hears routinely. “It’s a hustle, for sure,” he says about selling his act and keeping face.

Lee knows that he’s working a dream job and says it’s been extremely difficult to get there. “I’m one of the luckiest people in the world. At times I thought I should pursue other endeavors, but I never gave up,” he says of the process. His advice for the readers on pursuing their own dream jobs, “If they’re trying to be a magician, I’d encourage them to find a new hobby.”

For more information, contact, and bookings, visit www.leeterbosic.com.

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MANIAC jet set

Egypt Y

ou have seen the Pyramids and Sphinx on TV or King Tut’s gold mask in the National Geographic, right? Of course you have, these icons are stereotypical of what most people think of when they hear “Egypt.” What people do not know, however, is that Egypt is much more than that, combining ancient culture with great food, luxury hotels, shopping, and yes -- even beaches that are befitting of a great jet setting vacation.

What about the revolution, you say? That did not deter us!

We recently had the opportunity to visit this ancient land twice (before and after the quarrels began) in the past year to break these stereotypes and see all Egypt had to offer. With history dating back over five Millennia, we thought Egypt would be a perfect adventure for a honeymoon, but were naïve to all that the country could offer on the first foray into this desert country.

The Arab Republic of Egypt, as it is formerly called, is a transcontinental country located in Africa and Asia, and bordered by the Mediterranean and Red Seas with the Suez Canal connecting the two. Typically considered located in the Middle East, Egypt is the world’s 16th most populous country and the 30th largest. Most of the population resides around the coastal areas or the Nile river basin, with the rest of the country (the Sahara desert) sparsely inhabited.

The main tourist areas of the country are its’ capital, Cairo, Alexandria on the Mediterranean Sea, Luxor in the Nile River Valley, and Sharm El Sheikh, on the Red Sea. We visited two of the most popular areas both times: cosmopolitan and contemporary Cairo, of course, and the culturally opposite Sharm El Sheikh. One great thing for sun-lovers, Egypt is one of the sunniest places in the world, and for the almost 30 days we spent there during our two trips (in November, and again in July), we hardly noticed a single cloud!

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w r i t t e n B y Ro b e rt S t e in p h o t o g r ap h y p rov i d e d b y fai r m o n t h o t e l s & r e s o rt s an d f o u r s e a s o n s p h o t o g r ap h e r Ba r ry i v e r s o n

JET-SET

Lodging The lodging in Egypt is quite affordable, so we recommend staying in one of the country’s many five star hotels. In Cairo, we stayed at the Four Seasons Nile Plaza (www.fourseasons. com) (there are two Four Seasons in Cairo!), which is in central part of the city and overlooks the Nile river. This 30-story, 366 room hotel is located within five minutes of the Egyptian Museum (which houses King Tut’s mask) and Tahir square (where the revolution took place), and boasts distant views of the pyramids at Giza. The hotel is connected to one of the city’s most luxurious department stores as well as offers seven restaurants, three bars, a full fitness center/spa and a large swimming pool. You may think all this luxury comes at a high price, right? Wrong – rates start as low as $240/night for a regular room, even in the high season!

We stayed in a Nile-view room, which was great for enjoying a drink and watching the sunset over the Pyramids and Nile. The hotel was just a short 30 minute ride away from some of the most spectacular wonders of the world, which we will discuss later.

Next, we took a short one hour flight to Sharm El Sheikh, located on the Sinai peninsula which lies on the Red Sea. Think Las Vegas! This area is completely different than Cairo – laid back, with Atlantic-city style boardwalks, casinos, and some of the most spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving anywhere. In Sharm El Sheikh, we stayed at the Four Seasons again, this time located right on the water about ten minutes from the airport. This hotel sprawled out on nearly 30-acres, includes more than 250 rooms, suites and villas and includes sweeping views of the Red Sea and nearby Tiran Island. The hotel offers a full spa/fitness center, five restaurants, a full professionally-staffed scuba/snorkeling center, three bars, four pools, three tennis courts and a beach!

We stayed in a “Panorama” room both times, set on a hill high above the hotel with panoramic views of the property and the sea. The resort is so large, there is a “funicular” (think: incline) connecting the upper and lower parts of the hotel. Every day the hotel publishes an activity guide, with everything from snorkeling and glass-bottom boat trips, to horseback riding, belly dancers, whirling dervishes, and more. Again, the rates for a regular garden room start at about $300/night no matter the season, while the Panorama room we stayed in fluctuates between $400 and $800/night depending on the time of year. In the winter, Sharm El Sheikh & Cairo average in the 70s to 80s, while the summertime high averages near 100.

Both before and after the revolution, we found the value for Egypt’s luxury hotels to be incredible, with not many other places worldwide that could come close to match. With most of the world afraid, and occupancy rates low, you can take advantage of deals like never before.

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CULTURE The Egyptian culture is amazing. You are able to see wonders that are thousands and thousands of years old next to today’s creations of shopping malls, golf courses and hotels. Cairo has some of the most important world history at its doors, including three famous pyramids at Giza (Egypt has more than 115 pyramids), the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum (which rivals the Louvre in the amount of art & antiquities), famous mosques, churches and more. It is truly wondrous to see pyramids your entire life in photos or on TV and then one day to be standing next to or inside of them. Sharm El Sheikh, while a resort town, still offers day trips such as St. Catherine’s Monastery (where Moses received the 10 commandments) or even to Petra in Jordan or Jerusalem in Israel. Due to the lack of tourism now, you can see the sights unlike most of the past century, with very few other tourists around.

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JET-SET

TRANSPORTATION

CUISINE

SHOPPING Egypt has a ton of shopping! My wife particularly likes to shop, and she was in her heyday. In Cairo – the shops range from the ultra luxurious malls to the street vendor, with everything in between. The most spectacular shopping experience in Cairo, however, is the Khan el-Khalili souq (bazaar). The market dates back to the 1300s, and has shops of every variety, coffee houses and restaurants. All vendors – from textiles, jewelry and even spices are prepared to bargain and savvy tourists know to start at lower than 25% of the starting price in order to get the best deal.

In Sharm El Sheikh, the city center offers boardwalk style shops in its Naama Bay area. Here one can enjoy hookahs/ shisha, shop, eat or just take advantage of the area when it comes alive at night.

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Egypt has a wide variety of cuisine that dates back in ancient times. Restaurants are numerous and of every variety, from super gourmet to roadside vendors, you can find everything from sushi, steaks, any international variety, as well as traditional authentic Egyptian food. One of our favorite foods during our trip was the most simple – hummus and pita bread. Served at any time during day, this is a staple and enjoyed by all. Additionally, we enjoyed other Egyptian/ Middle Eastern dishes such as kabobs, falafel, baba ganoush, and more. Egyptians like their coffee and tea, so if you like a good café you will be in the right place. The Four Seasons at Sharm El Shiekh offered a great cooking class in one of the restaurants where the executive chef taught us how to make some of these dishes and gave us the recipes for when we returned.

Don’t think Egypt is without its alcohol.

The ancient Egyptians were great in making beer and wine, and that continues throughout today. We enjoyed many native beers and wines made throughout the country and were quite good, and relatively inexpensive.

Transportation is easy both getting to and travelling within Egypt. There are nonstop flights direct from the USA, or you can get to Egypt through countless connections in Europe. In Egypt, both Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh boast fully modern international airports that put most of our own to shame.

Getting around Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh was very easy, we did not need to rent a car, all taxi drivers speak English and the rates were affordable. The roads in Egypt, unlike many African and Asian countries, are clutter free and completely organized.

Hotels gladly can arrange private or group sightseeing tours to the major destinations easily. Prior to our trip, we researched a great USA based company called Guardian travel (http://www.guardiantravel.com/), which provided all our private sightseeing tours, car, airport transfer, etc. for less than $500 for our total stay.

One of the most interesting things we did on our trip was taking a “felucca” ride. A felucca, aka Egypt’s traditional sail boat, for which we rented for an hour for $10, took us on a romantic sunset ride up and down the Nile River, which is something I recommend every visitor to do. In Sharm El Sheikh, we took a rented a catamaran (unfortunately, for a lot more) and went to Tiran island, where we saw some incredible corals and fish of all kind.

Many would say that Egypt is the trip of the lifetime, including my wife and I, at first.

However, after returning twice in a year, we found Egypt to offer great culture, shopping, food and hotels far beyond its stereotypes and it greatly exceeded our expectations – we can’t wait to go back. While there may be some unrest, we found Egyptians extremely friendly and very hospitable to Americans.

Despite what you see on TV, the vast majorities of the people do not participate in the revolution and simply are going about their daily lives and Egypt is generally very safe. We walked right through the main demonstration area and most people were simply sitting drinking their coffee. Egypt is largely dependent on tourism – and they need tourists desperately, so take advantage of the great deals and take your next jet setting, luxury vacation to this ancient land and be prepared for the trip of a lifetime (or maybe even more)

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Sign up for our email list and get 20% off your purchase or visit us on facebook! www.reflectapparel.com info@reflectapparel.com 1920 settlers ridge center drive Pittsburgh PA 15205

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MANIAC contest

celebrity look alike

alexis

Eichelsbacher

celebrity doppelganger, Megan Fox M ak e u p b y M a r k B ro s i u s

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Hai r b y M a r l in e B e r na l

Eerily similar to her celebrity doppelganger, Megan Fox, Alexis Eichelsbacher washed out the competition and clenched the top spot in the first “Maniac Celebrity Look-Alike Contest.” A fulltime college student studying psycholog y in Pittsburgh, Alexis spends her free time – not unlike Megan Fox – working on movie sets and modeling. “I chose to send in my photo because a lot of people say that I look similar to her. A family member saw the contest and convinced me to enter... I’ve always wanted to be a part of Maniac Magazine so I am very excited and thankful to finally be a part of it!

This contest was very exciting and was full of great look-alikes! I am so happy that I was chosen as the winner since there was tough competition.”

MANIAC profile

the lexus of Client Services

BY K ai t l in B u s c h

In

these long, cold winter months we have to worry about more than just dry skin, wind-damaged hair and waterproof shoes.

We have to worry about the appearance of our cars too. Well, more upkeep and functionality than appearance, but still. It can be stressful and time-consuming to have your car serviced. Lexus of North Hills understands how exhausting the Maniac lifestyle can be. That’s why they have Jessica Proia.

p h o t o g r ap h y b y M at t h e w S h u ck

Proia, who is the Manager of Client Spa Services at Lexus of North Hills, has spent the past eight years providing clientele with either a chair massage or a manicure while they are waiting for their car. Talk about indulgence. “We want to show the clients appreciation for their valuable time, making sure that they feel not only as comfortable as possible, but that they get extra special treatment as well,” Proia said.

Clients obviously love the R&R and appreciate a chance to unwind from their busy schedules. “It’s much easier for them to take advantage of pampering themselves if they’re accomplishing something else at the same time,” Proia said.

Women are smart, they know how to work the system to their advantage. Proia said women know how to time a car tuneup with their need for a manicure. Many ladies choose to have their car serviced

before a wedding or other type of special occasion (and who can blame them?). Proia also noticed women tend to bring their husband’s cars in as well. That’s one way to spend a little more time having Proia work out those muscle kinks. Very impressive, ladies.

Lexus of North Hills and Proia take care of their customers, so show your car a little love this Valentine’s Day and you’re get a little right back.

Proia has practiced independent therapeutic massage for over a decade and opened her own small business seven years ago. She is the proud owner of Urban Escape in Pittsburgh, where she also works as a massage therapist. She has 20 years of experience with extensive spa services, skin care/corrective skin treatments, manicures, pedicures, make-up artistry, electrolysis and waxing.

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MANIAC loves Those looking for fine dining and exciting nightlife in Pittsburgh need look no farther than Savoy. Located in the Strip District, the Savoy lives up to its tagline— “the Good Life”—by offering visitors professionally-crafted meals and a calendar of star-studded events.

In terms of dining, the Savoy offers an upscale, savory experience.

Executive Chef Kevin Watson has over 25 years of experience under his belt and a history of serving the people of Pittsburgh, from owning his own catering company to being

continued the following night with the New Year’s Eve Spectacular, hosted by R&B artist Keri Hilson. In addition to hosting, Keri performed some of her own songs, including the hits “Knock You Down” and “Pretty Girl Rock.” DJ Biz Markie kept the music spinning the rest of the night, making sure that the crowd entered the New Year thoroughly entertained.

Although their New Year’s Eve

good living at savoy the personal chef to Steelers team members and Pittsburgh CEOs (and, recently, catering a dinner for former President George W. Bush). Chef Watson supervises the restaurant’s exclusive downstairs chef’s table. At the same time, his kitchen boasts a variety of dishes from a wide spectrum of culinary traditions. Chef Watson and Savoy were honored at Savor Pittsburgh’s 2011 competition, taking home the “People’s Choice” award in recognition of their efforts.

The food and drink at Savoy speak for themselves, but the events held at the restaurant also deserve attention. Although the restaurant only opened its doors in May 2011, it has already hosted high-profile events featuring prominent celebrities.

Savoy has hit the ground running, as demonstrated by their New Year’s weekend bash.

Savoy rang in 2012 with their New Year’s Weekend Spectacular. The celebratory weekend kicked off on December 30th with a performance by R&B artist Mya. Cedric the Entertainer also made appearances both before and after his New Year’s Weekend Comedy Jam at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall in Oakland. The party 68

“The Good Life” B y G e s ina A . P h i l l ip s

P h o t o g r ap h y B y K at e ly n P e t r at i s

celebration will be a tough act to follow, 2012 already promises more fantastic events at Savoy. Event series, weekly performances, and special holiday celebrations should keep Pittsburgh residents living the Good Life all year long. Here’s the lowdown on some upcoming events at Savoy.

This year, the restaurant will host Fashion 101 Fridays, an event series devoted entirely to the fashion industry.

Events will include meet and greets, Q&A discussions, and runway demonstrations.

Industry representatives will range from fashion models to designers to executives within the fashion industry as Savoy reaches out to the Pittsburgh fashion community.

The series began with a meet and greet with supermodel Tyson Beckford on January 20th, but don’t worry if you missed it: Savoy will be hosting more fashion-focused events throughout the year. Members of the Pittsburgh fashion industry, aspiring members, and fashionistas are invited to

attend.

Savoy also hosts weekly performances as part of the Savoy Jazz series. Monday nights welcome Pittsburgh jazz artists and special guests to the restaurant for an evening of live music. The Roger Humphries Trio performs weekly, welcoming special guests such as Eric Johnson in January and Kenny Blake in February. A schedule of past and upcoming performances is available on Savoy Jazz event page (www.savoypgh.com/ event/savoy-jazz). The artists will perform live from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Monday night, with the restaurant closing at 10 p.m.

Guests can enjoy select entrée and dessert items as well as choose from the full lounge menu, or sip the special “Jazztini,” Savoy’s signature Monday Night Jazz martini.

Other upcoming events at Savoy include a special schedule for Valentine’s Day. Of course Savoy will be open on February 14th, but the celebration will go beyond a romantic Valentine’s dinner, beginning the weekend prior to the holiday. On Friday, February 10th, Savoy welcomes actor Laz Alonso (Avatar, This Christmas), and Saturday, February 11th features a surprise celebrity guest from a favorite reality TV show. For a Valentine’s Day dinner, packages are available for purchase and reservations are encouraged. From the holiday to a night on the town, Savoy is an essential destination for good living in Pittsburgh.

Savoy is located at 2623 Penn Avenue in the Strip District of Pittsburgh. Reservations are available online for parties of six or fewer, and by phone (412.281.0660) for same-day or last minute reservations. The restaurant is open Thursday through Sunday weekly, with the option of special bookings for Monday through Wednesday and Sunday evenings.

Visit Savoy online at www.savoypgh.com.

MANIAC loves

Caesar’s Designs Fine Jewelry Creations B y J e nni f e r K . M cG l inc y

P h o t o g r ap h y B y M at t h e w S h u ck

Nestled among the specialty stores, boutiques and craft eateries that have become the hallmark of Walnut Street in the Shadyside neighborhood of Pittsburgh lays the sparkling vision (literally and figuratively) of Caesar Azzam.

Since 1997, Caesar’s Designs Fine Jewelry Creations has been providing customers with unique fine jewelry that combines elegant simplicity, bold lines and the natural beauty of colorful gemstones.

The rich history behind this trademark quality, however, extends far beyond 1997.

“My father had a jewelry store and as a child, I paid close attention to how the business worked and it really intrigued me,” Azzam explained. “I’m always asked if I knew the jewelry business is where I would end up. I went to college and studied economics, even holding a position at a bank at one point. But, I’ve always had a passion for creating jewelry.”

Azzam, inspired to return to his roots and formally complete what he was already familiar with, attended the Gemological Institute of America. “I cherish the days I spent at GIA. I cherish the people I met and the skills I acquired there,” Azzam commented.

In 1998, Azzam took his experience and education a step further and developed his own jewelry collection. His aesthetic is one that is easily recognizable. His trademarks

include a kaleidoscope of gems set in bold, classic and clean lines, as well as rings, bracelets and necklaces.

“What inspires me to make a particular piece can be anything. I might see a gemstone that speaks to me and I have to design a piece around it. Or I might have a design already in my head for which I have to find a perfect gemstone,” remarked Azzam.

As far as singling out a particular piece of jewelry that has been his favorite piece to design so far, Azzam couldn’t chose as he pointed out there are aspects to each project that give him satisfaction.

Half of Azzam’s business entails what he calls, “Recycle Redesign” projects that clients bring in to the store.

“People walk in with wonderful ingredients, often pieces that have been passed down to family members, and we have to find new life for them to fit the taste and style of the person that now owns them,” explained Azzam.

He admitted the

best part of his job is getting a big hug at the end when a piece is completed.

Caesar’s has a wonderful bridal collection, one that is fit for the upcoming holiday. When questioned about Valentine’s Day and whether he sees an influx in the sale of engagement rings around this holiday each year, Azzam carefully delved in to the process of such an important purchase.

“The advice I give most people is to prepare and educate yourself online at a number of popular websites and then find a local jeweler that you can relate to,” he said.

“I think there is generally a lot of mistrust at the beginning of the process for some people. My job is to prove they are getting the best ring for their budget and having the best experience possible. The relationship at the end is the result of how well I did my job.”

If you’re looking for a personal experience, you will find it at Caesar’s Designs. Working with Azzam is like a breath of fresh air in the jewelry business, you won’t feel like you’re just another dollar to be made. Azzam takes the time to hear your vision, inspire you with his and create an experience that you will remember and recount every time you receive a compliment on your accessories.

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MANIAC quiz

What’s Your

Love Aura?

W r i t t e n b y Pama l a O s l i e

Ever wonder why you feel immediately drawn to some people and not to others, why you feel chemistry with some and not others? Here’s the interesting reason why.

You’re feeling their energy – their aura. Yes, it’s true – you have an aura, an electromagnetic field that radiates from you. You’re broadcasting who you are all the time.

People can feel your energy, your essence, just like you can sense theirs. The reason you feel more compatible with some people is that your energy, or auras, are better matched. Different aura colors reveal different personality types, and some types get along better than others. Wouldn’t it be great to know which aura colors are your best match? Well, there is a fun way to find out. Take this simple quiz to discover what your aura colors say about you, your relationship styles, your most compatible colors, and what you will need in a relationship to be happy and fulfilled!

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QUIZ

n 1 o

I like to laugh, play, and cheer people up.

I tend to look younger than my age.

I like to be creative, artistic, athletic, healer, or work with my hands.

Total

n 4 o

I tend to counsel, help, nurture, and empathize with others.

Spirituality, love, and relationships are my highest priorities.

I tend to be emotional and can cry easily.

Total

n 3 o

n 2 o

I am analytical and logical, not an emotional person.

I enjoy working with computers, machines, or electronics.

I tend to take care of the details of a project & prefer being an employee with a secure paycheck.

Total

n 5 o

I have a strong need to help save or improve the planet.

I have always felt that I was going to be famous, be a leader, or do something big and important.

Freedom, travel, and independence are major priorities to me.

Total

Your highest total of checkmarks:

n

I tend to be a workaholic, perfectionist, ambitious, My top priorities are money and accomplishing business goals.

I am organized, efficient, and often write lists.

Total

n 6 o

I tend to express myself through my physical body and sexuality more than my intellect or emotions.

I tend to believe only in the existence of those things that I can physically touch, see, hear, taste, or feel.

I am stubborn, strongwilled, and often have a quick temper.

Total

o 71

QUIZ

no 1 no 2 no 3 no 4 no 5 no 6 YELLOW

TAN

GREEN

BLUE

VIOLET

RED

The fun-loving Yellows need playmates. They need to laugh and enjoy life.

They love to make people happy, so they need partners who give them positive feedback, not criticism. They enjoy partners who are playful, happy, spontaneous, curious, optimistic, physically active and healthy.

Practical, downto-earth Tans value long-term commitment. They need partners who are logical, devoted, and reliable. They prefer mates who can be content with a basic, secure lifestyle – not those who need extravagance. Tans are not risk takers; they prefer partners who will share in a safe, sensible, and long-term partnership.

These movers and shakers are intelligent and ambitious with a strong, commanding presence. Greens want a high quality, wealthy lifestyle.

These driven, often workaholic Greens may not be at home much, so partners need to be independent and self-reliant.

Greens must to be able to respect and feel intellectually stimulated by their mates. Their partners must respect them, their accomplishments, and their money.

Blues are nurturing, devoted partners.

They live for love and a committed, monogamous relationship. There is nothing Blues won’t do to keep their relationship together. What Blues need from their partner is love, loyalty, emotional connection, faithfulness, monogamy, mutual trust, and long-term commitment.

Violets have strong, dynamic personalities. They are visionaries and leaders. They typically radiate charisma and sexual chemistry.

Violets need to live remarkable, big lives so they need partners who can soar with them – who encourage them to reach their highest potential; equal, inspirational partners who share their visions. Violets must experience excitement, growth, expansion, and passion.

Most Reds enjoy strenuous, robust activities, so Reds need partners who are healthy, in great physical shape, with strength, stamina, and vitality. There are hardworking, salt-of-the-earth Reds, and the zesty, hot-blooded, passionate Reds.

The strong-willed Reds want partners who are highly physical, sexual, independent, trustworthy, and self-sufficient, with a strong sense of self-worth.

Best partners: Yellows, Blues, some Violets and Tans.

Best partners: Tans, some Blues, Yellows, and Greens.

Best partners: Blues, Yellows, Violets, and some Tans.

Best partners: Violets, Blues, Greens, and some Yellows.

Best partners: Greens, Violets, and some Tans.

Famous Yellows are Johnny Depp, Goldie Hawn (Yellow/Blue), Tom Hanks and Mike Myers (both Yellow/ Violets.)

Famous Tans are Clint Eastwood (Tan/ Violet), Harrison Ford (Tan/Yellow), and Brad Pitt (Yellow/Tan.)

Famous Greens are Barbara Walters, Bill Gates, David Letterman (Green/ Yellow), and Donald Trump.

FAMOUS Blues include Ellen Degeneres, Meg Ryan, Jennifer Aniston, Cameron Diaz, and Kate Hudson (All Blue/ Yellows.)

About Pamala Oslie

Having helped people for over 27 years to better understand themselves and live happier lives by using her rare ability to see auras, Pamala has discovered that different colors in the aura reveal a person’s personality, best life direction, and more. She is the host of her own radio show in Santa Barbara, CA and is the author of three books, “Life Colors” “Love Colors” and “Make Your Dreams Come True.” Pam is also the founder of www.LoveColors.com, a new free online dating site based on aura color compatibility. Visit www.auracolors.com or www.LoveColors.com for more information.

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FAMOUS Violets include the Beatles, Oprah, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, George Clooney, Will Smith, George Lucas, and Spielberg. (All Violet/Yellows.)

Best partners: Reds, Violets, and Greens.

Famous Reds include Marilyn Monroe (Red/ Yellow), Madonna, Sean Penn, and Russell Crowe.

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Book online at shadyside.pa.lavidamassage.com or scan this QR Code with your smartphone to book your appointment online. If you need a QR, reader there are many free apps available for download.

Walk-ins welcome Open 7 days a week Book appointments online Full Line of esthetic services Comfortable massage rooms Certified professional therapists *A one hour massage/facial session includes five minutes for consultation and undressing, 50 minutes hands on and five minutes for redressing.

q I am a bargain hunter; February and August are my two favorite shopping months of the year. Retailers try to push as much Fall/Winter merchandise out the door so as to make room for Spring/Summer. We see the big red sales signs almost everywhere.

Macy’s 65% off clearance corner. Gap’s “50% off everything in store” day, and who doesn’t love BCBG’s semi-annual 70% event?

I ask myself why I even buy any Fall/Winter clothes in September when I know by January/February they will be at least 50% off!?

I also think, “Well, how low can these retailers go?” Did I just see an 80% off sign? What could possibly be a retailer’s markup on the merchandise? Why do some items never go on sale? I am sure you have experienced this scenario: you approach the Macy’s counter with a Coach bag and your red “rewards” coupon in hand and the clerk says the words we shoppers never want to hear, “That coupon doesn’t apply to that.” *** sigh ****. Why are some luxury items never on sale?

Recently, I had to research these legal and business pricing issues for one of my clients, who designs, manufactures and distributes a high-end clothing line to boutiques and department stores all over the world. The results of my research were fascinating and worth sharing with every other maniac shopper, fashion designer, and retailer out there.

I learned that the standard markup from distributor to retailer is 2.2 times; if the item is luxury the standard markup is 3 times. A luxury brand often wants to impose a minimum resale price for its high-end clothes in order to prevent online resellers and competing boutiques from

“underselling” or discounting the goods, making it available to a wider segment of the market, and in turn, eroding the luxury brand image. Because of antitrust laws, in the United States and abroad, generally speaking, a manufacturer, however, cannot force a retailer to set the price of goods above a specific price.

Doing so is called “vertical price restraint.” The manufacturer can just “suggest” a retail price that a retailer should follow (hence, the “suggested retail price” on price tags).

So if a luxury clothes designer/ manufacturer cannot dictate the

the law

& Business of Retail B y Sa l e n e M az u r K r a e m e r , Re t a i l B u s i n e s s A n d B a n k r u p t c y A t t o r n ey with Burns Whit

price its boutiques or department stores sell its items, how can the brand maintain its prestige? Louis Vuitton is an excellent example of a luxury company controlling brand perception.

I found a research paper of a Japanese graduate student, Shin’ya Nagasawa, titled “Louis Vuitton and its Luxury Brand Strategy. “ Nagasawa reports that, in a very intentional way, LV employs the four P’s of brand marketing (price, product, place, and promotion). Louis Vuitton ‘s “officially sanctioned stores/prestige retailer partners” are then encouraged to comply with such marketing policies.

First, as to price, LV has not had a sale in 154 years. Louis Vuitton prohibits bargain sales. A core of Louis Vuitton’s pricing strategy is to sell the products to all of its customers at the same price no matter the location.

Regarding product, to foster users forming attachments to a product, each of Louis Vuitton’s products has a name, not a serial number. “Soho”, “Broadway”, “Ural”, “Baikal”. (ModCloth and Nine West also

do this). Also, Nagasawa found that Louis Vuitton has a special order service for selfindulgers who hire Louis Vuitton to custommake products.

In terms of promotion, Louis Vuitton does not have television ads; it instead values more the “fullness of information” exchanged between a customer and a Louis Vuitton salesperson; Louis Vuitton trains salespeople to tell the stories behind the products and inform customers regarding the rich details of latest pieces, how to care for the bags, and updates on key fashion designers. Yearly, Louis Vuitton supplements stores with catalogs that consumers can buy. The catalogues contain an immense amount of information about the products; the catalogues always sell out. At the same time, to promote its products, Louis Vuitton has brand “muses” (celebrities that take a liking to the brand or persons who epitomize the brand).

Lastly, regarding place, Louis Vuitton retains immensely tight control from production to distribution to sales. For example, once a product is taken out of production, it retires and does not go to a discount outlet or online discounter. LV wants their retired goods to be “sorely missed” and in an implied way employs the “you better buy it now or it will be gone” tactic.

Whatever Louis Vuitton is doing, it is working, as evidenced by how long the brand has existed. Happy February shopping!

75

MANIAC q&a

The Guncles A Modern Family

Bill Horn and Scout Masterson are redefining the modern family. Perhaps more recognizable by the nickname bestowed upon them by their best friend, Tori Spelling, “The Guncles” are being acknowledged as reality TV’s first gay family, a distinction they do not take lightly.

BY J e nni f e r K . M cG l inc y

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P h o t o g r ap h y b y J e s s ica L e wi s P h o t o g r ap h y

Q&A Appearing on Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood on Oxygen, “The Guncles” play a supporting role – if one were to categorize the casting of the show - to the family of Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott. The cast also includes Tori and Dean’s son, Liam, and daughter, Stella. Tori was pregnant with child number three, Hadey, during the filming of the current season six. There is no mistaking the real-life leading roles Tori and Dean gave the two gay uncles for their children.

The show provides a glimpse into Horn’s and Masterson’s lives together, including their commitment ceremony from a previous season, and most recently the birth of their adopted daughter, Simone. Fresh off holiday vacation, Bill and Scout took time to speak with MANIAC about their 10-year relationship, love, family, bull riding (more on that later) and their influence on the changing landscape of American families.

MM: How and when did you guys meet?

The Guncles: We met at a Grease sing-along benefit for HIV-AIDS. We were introduced by two different drag queens. We hit it off right away and made a date. Scout wooed me - he took me to dinner.

I think our fourth date was in Palm Springs. That was ten years ago.

Our relationship is an easy-going love. We found each other. We think we were truly meant to be, we don’t have to think about it. We move in one piece.

MM: You’re in a very fortunate position.

You get to show how the definition of the American family is expending by sharing part of your lives on TV. How has that affected you?

The Guncles: When we agreed to have our lives on TV in relation to Tori and Dean, we truly thought we would receive hate mail but we couldn’t have been more wrong.

MM: What has the general reaction on the streets been?

The Guncles: We have received so much love and support. One letter that sticks out in our minds was from a fan in Arkansas who, after seeing our commitment ceremony, said she would raise her children differently – to be more accepting and loving of people who make decisions different from their own.

MM: Tell us about your decision to adopt a baby together.

The Guncles: It just seemed logical. We always wanted a family together. We chose to adopt because it’s no secret that two men can’t have a baby (physically).

MM: You chose an open adoption as opposed to closed adoption or surrogacy. Why? The Guncles: We chose open adoption, which means we had/have open communication with the birth mother. It never occurred to us to keep it a secret to our child as we mentioned before, it’s pretty obvious we did not have our child naturally.

MM: Do you feel like spokespeople for gay families?

The Guncles: We are in a very fortunate

position that we are able to share our experience with adoption and starting a family. We are blogging for Parenting.com and we can provide advice and at least open the conversation about gay families for some people and offer support and love to others.

MM: Speaking of love and support, you started an adoption mentoring service called Hold My Hand. What sort of support do you offer?

The Guncles: It’s basically a resource people can use to share their concerns about the adoption process. We offer support through conversation and sharing our own experience. We are not social workers or trained professionals, we’re just two Dads who have been through the adoption process and want to help others through it.

It can be a very emotional journey. There were times during our own process when we didn’t feel comfortable talking to our

adoption counselor about certain things and would have rather talked to a couple who was going through it or had been through it. Hold My Hand provides that opportunity.

MM: What advice can you offer to gay families about adoption?

The Guncles: Be patient, your baby will find you.

MM: What has been the most exciting thing about being a parent? What have been some challenges?

The Guncles: Getting to see life through Simone’s eyes has been the most exciting part. One of the challenges that we are facing now is that she is getting older and definitely developing her own opinion. She wants to do everything herself. She is constantly stating, “I do,” meaning she wants no help.

MM: What are some things you love, besides Simone and each other?

The Guncles: Oh god, trashy reality TV. The Real Housewives of Atlanta (Bravo) – anything we can turn on in bed after an exhausting day and not have to think about.

MM: What has been your most Maniac moment?

The Guncles: (Scout) I recently did something that I was afraid to death to do. I rode a mechanical bull, which you see on this season of Tori & Dean. I fell off right away and it hurt really badly. (Both) We also recently fed an emu, which was terrifying. They are huge!

MM: What are you looking forward to in 2012?

The Guncles: We’ve decided take on a healthier eating regime. Scout loves cooking and you can enjoy some of his recipes on our website, www.Gunclesonline.com.

We look forward to providing healthier options of those recipes. We look forward to developing Hold My Hand further and expanding the number of people we are helping with that organization.

When I presented the notion that the two must feel honored to be the first gay family on reality TV, Bill Horn and Scout Masterson were humbled and then agreed it was certainly a perfect word for the position they find themselves in. Their relationship and general concern for the well being of any family facing, well, what families face on any given day, has made them a fan favorite and a family that we look forward to growing with.

77

MANIAC guide T h e S in g le Girl’s Gu id e to

Va l e ntine ’ s Day

BY K ai t l in B u s c h

Indulge

PAMPER

Shari’s Berries

Nemacolin Woodlands Spa

1-877-BERRIES

1001 Lafayette Drive, Farmington PA 15437

www.berries.com

724.329.8555 www.nemacolin.com

Every girl loves chocolate, whether single or spoken for. Don’t

What better way to relax than a spa day? Book a spa package early,

worry so much about your diet today and treat yourself to some

take the day off from work and travel to the Laurel Highlands for

scrumptious Valentine’s Day themed chocolates from Shari’s Berries.

a luxurious day all to yourself. The spa offers over 100 treatments

We recommend some chocolate dipped strawberries, covered in

and services, and the soothing ambiance will surely refresh your

red, pink and white heart-shaped sprinkles or decorated with red

body, mind and soul while reliving some of the stress of everyday

swizzles, to get you in the holiday spirit. Packages, which start at

life. The spa offers numerous services, including facials, massages,

$29.99, can be ordered online and include six berries. If you’re

manicures, body wraps and hydrotherapy. Or pamper yourself with

looking for a little more chocolate, a little less berry, the website also

one of Nemacolin’s spa packages, which range in price from $320

offers chocolate covered pretzels, chocolate dipped cherries and

to $540. We recommend the Mystic Touch (the basic spa package,

chocolate dipped cookies. And if nothing else, you can celebrate

for $350), where you can rejuvenate your spirit through a mystical

your undying love to yourself (and your sweet tooth) this year with a

massage, refresher facial, refresher manicure and refresher scrub.

couple of Valentine’s Day themed cake pops.

78

guide

All the single ladies, all the single ladies…Although it’s catchy, we don’t expect you to break out in tune. MANIAC is here to provide our lovely single gals with some suggestions on how to love yourself this Valentine’s Day. You can make this Hallmark holiday bitter or sweet, or even a fabulous combination of both. Instead of staying in, watching chick flicks and eating ice cream (although there is absolutely nothing wrong with that!), we suggest you get out and treat yourself to a fun-filled day with yourself. We think Carrie Bradshaw got it right when she said, “But the most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you can find someone to love the ‘you’ you love, well, that’s just fabulous.”

SPOIL

SHOP Cuttings

Reflect

524 Locust Place, Sewickley PA 15143

1920 Settlers Ridge Center Drive, Pittsburgh PA 15205

412.741.7227 www.cuttingsfg.com

412.787.2749 www.reflectapparel.com

Valentine’s Day is almost synonymous with flowers, everyone always

If you’re stuck in a rut this Valentine’s Day, there is a cure—a little

seems to be carrying them around all day. Take the time to send

retail therapy. Head on over to Reflect in Robinson and buy yourself

yourself some red or pink roses this year. The beauty of the flowers

a new dress and accessories for a night out on the town.

will lift your mood, and the tantalizing aroma will set a blissful tone in

dolled up and head out with your friends for some champagne and

your office or house. Cuttings offers numerous types of fresh flowers

celebratory toasts to the men who let you get away. Reflect has all the

and plants, so if you don’t like roses, you can send yourself a mixed

latest fashions, and the sales associates will help you put the perfect

array of hydrangeas, lilies and orchids. The staff has fantastic floral

outfit together to flaunt your hotness! The store has picked up some

design skills, showcasing aesthetically-pleasing boutiques. And

of the latest clothing lines, including Whitney Eve (Whitney Port’s

don’t forget to fill out a card to send with the flowers, with a positive

line featured on The City), Anoname Jeans (Rihanna), Paula Bianco

message of self-love.

(Kim Kardashian) and Boulee (Audrina Patridge). And if you’re not

Get

in the mood to wear red or pink, a little black dress is always sure to impress.

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All Access WITH AMY

All Access with Amy is your all access pass to the social scene, events, and happenings in and around Pittsburgh and elsewhere. You can find me online, read my article in MANIAC Magazine, and be sure to tune in to 96.1 KISS F.M. to hear about all the latest happenings!

It’s hard to believe that December and January are behind us. The MANIAC 50’s style December/ January winter launch party was another huge success, the holiday parties were a blast, Ambition’s album release party topped the charts, New Year’s Eve at Mullin’s was the perfect way to bring in 2012, and the memories made from the time spent with friends and family was the best way to close out 2011.

Be sure to “like” my FACEBOOK fan page at www. facebook.com/allaccesswithamy, sign up for my e-blast at www.allaccesswithamy.com, and follow me on Twitter at www.twitter.com/allaccesswamy. Here you will see photos, interviews, and have a chance to win the most sought after tickets the city has to offer!

Plus, if you have an event that you need to promote, email me at amy@allaccesswithamy.com.

And if you are ever in need of a hard to get ticket, just ask me. I will do my best to try and help you!

Wishing you lots of love on Valentines day….. and some “An t-áadh na nGael” (luck of the Irish) to all!

XoXo,

As February and March approach, love fills the air, the luck of the Irish falls upon us, and the entire city prepares for the most anticipated parade and the most insane party day in Pittsburgh: St. Patty’s Day!!!

I will be here to help you find the most romantic get-aways and date nights, hottest concerts and events, and all of the pre and post parade parties!

Wardrobe provided by

REFLECT

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Amy WITH AMY

MANIAC

Upcoming Events

*Please contact all venues to confirm all event listings prior to purchasing tickets.

February 2011 2/2

Battle of the Bands Week 3 Diesel Club Lounge @ 7:00 pm

2/3

Natalie Stovall Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Silks Lounge @ 8:00 pm

2/4

Nuclear Cowboyz Freestyle Chaos CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:30 pm doors open @ 6:30 pm Girls Hope Hearts & Hopes Fundraiser Whim @ 5:30 pm Vida with Soul Village Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Silks Lounge @ 8:00 pm

2/10

“Must Love Dogs” date Animal Friends’ Caryl Gates Gluck Resource Center @ 7:00 pm Make-It-Now Valentines Pittsburgh Glass Center @ 5:00 pm Todd Jones Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Silks Lounge @ 8:00 pm Actor Laz Alonso Savoy @ TBA

2/11

Penguins vs. Jets CONSOL Energy Center @ 2:00 pm Death By Valentine: Dine and solve a mystery Gaetano’s Restaurant @ TBA (more dates available) Angelo Barbarro and Band Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Silks Lounge @ 8:00 pm

March 2012 2/15

3/2

Penguins vs. Ducks CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm

Eli Young Band Pepsi-Cola Roadhouse @ 5:30 pm

2/17

3/5

George Clinton And Parliament Funkadelic Stage AE @ 7:00 pm Peaches and the MVP Band Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Silks Lounge @ 8:00 pm Tres Lads Band Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Silks Lounge @ 8:00 pm No Bad Ju Ju Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Silks Lounge @ 8:00 pm

2/17 – 2/19

Monster Jam Trucks CONSOL Energy Center @ 2:00 pm

2/21

Penguins vs. Rangers CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm

2/23

Battle of the Bands Week 4 Diesel Club Lounge @ 7:00 pm

2/25

Penguins vs. Lightning CONSOL Energy Center @ 1:00 pm American Heart Association Washington County and Mon Valley Heart Ball Hilton Garden Inn Southpointe @ 5:30 pm – 12:00 pm Airborne Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Silks Lounge @ 8:00 pm

2/26

Penguins vs. Coyotes CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm

3/7

Y&T & Lize Diesel Club Lounge @ 6:45 pm Penguins vs. Maple Leafs CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:30 pm

3/9

Penguins vs. Panthers CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm

3/10

16th Annual Children’s Ball Carnegie Science Center @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Stars on Ice CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:30 pm

3/21

Celtic Woman CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:30 pm

3/22

Lady Smith Black Mambazo Soldiers and Sailors Hall @ 7:30 pm Penguins vs. Predators CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm

3/25

Pittsburgh MDA Muscle Walk Pittsburgh Mills Mall @ 11:00 am

Battle of the Bands Finals Diesel Club Lounge @ TBA

3/27

3/12

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Downtown Pittsburgh (Liberty & 11th) @ 10:00 am ShamRockin’ Pittsburgh Stage AE @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Pittsburgh’s Irish Fair in the Square Market Square @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Penguins vs. Blue Jackets CONSOL Energy Center @ 1:00 pm

2/12

2/29 – 3/4

Disney On Ice: 100 Years of Magic CONSOL Energy Mon- Sat @ 7:00pm Sun @ 5:00 pm

3/13 – 3/18

Happy Valentine’s Day/ Anti-Valentine’s Day! Check facebook page for all events!

Penguins vs. Jets CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm

Penguins vs. Devils CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm

Penguins vs. Bruins CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:30 pm

Pshychedelically Funky Valentine’s Day Party! W/ RazorSharp Johnson The Hideout @ 8:00 pm

2/14

3/20

3/11

Coors Light Parade After Party Market Square @ 2:00 pm– 6:00 pm

Penguins vs. Lightning CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm

Auditions for “Rocket to the Stars” singing competition Carnegie Mellon University @ 12:00 pm

La Cage Aux Folles Benedum Center @ (Various times.

Check show time for specific date.)

3/17

The Revolve Tour: Dream On Soldiers and Sailors Hall @ 12:00 am - 7:00 pm

Penguins vs. Islanders CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm

3/30

Van Halen with Kool & The Gang CONSOL Energy Center@ 7:30 pm

3/31

Casting Crowns CONSOL Energy Center @ 7:00 pm The Washington Hospital Ball Southpointe Golf Club @ 7:00 pm

For a full list of events please visit facebook.com/ allaccesswithamy

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229 S. Highland Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15206 412.661.5656

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1150 Smallman St Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412.201.5656

2000 Smallman St Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412.261.6565

5847 Ellsworth Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15232 412.362.5656

5849 Ellsworth Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15232 412.362.6198

Seven Pittsburgh Locations madmex.com

3801 Butler Street, Lawrenceville 412.683.8153 www.jeffreysmithstudio.com

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